Chic Face Masks To Wear in 2021

Even with the vaccine rollout, the CDC recommends the community to continue to wear masks, specifically non-valved multi-layer cloth masks, to prevent transmission of SARS-CoV-2. It helps in the prevention of transmitting respiratory droplets generated when people cough, sneeze, sing, talk, or breathe. “Masks are primarily intended to reduce the emission of virus-laden droplets, which is especially relevant for asymptomatic or presymptomatic infected wearers who feel well and may be unaware of their infectiousness to others.” Single-use blue disposable masks are filling up our landfills, so the following entrepreneurs are making cloth masks that are colorful, chic and re-usable. Just wash, air dry and wear.

Here are 5 of my favorites face coverings for 2021:

1. New York East End Taste founder Vanessa Gordon in New York offers handmade, stylish and colorful 100% cotton masks that are machine washable safe, and include her signature Embroidery Collection. Her masks are for adults and children. In December 2020, Vanessa donated 20% of sales to KiDS NEED MoRE a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of children and families coping with cancer and serious illness. They build a community of support and hope through peer mentoring, friendly visits, camp experiences, retreats and daily events. (Masks start at $14+).

2. The new Los Angeles-based Out + About Supply makes a clever “one-strap wonder” that uniquely fits users’ face with one adjustable strap. Founded by Kathryn Hampton’s Los Angeles interior design firm K2S Studio, and Dickey DeBiase, Out + About Supply, they applied their experience and resources in new ways to help during these unprecedented times. Their tightly-woven cotton fabric mask is washable and eco-friendly. Place the mask around your neck to wear throughout the day. Pull up the face covering and adjust the single strap behind your head. Hook above your ears for a snug and comfortable fit.

It’s a mask that can stay with you all day, so you have no worries about finding a mask quickly. They donated a portion of each sale toward building recreational space in underserved communities through The Los Angeles Neighborhood Land Trust. (Masks cost $18+).

3. Stone Clover Lane Facial Mask adds beads and pearls to the adjustable straps in a variety of colors. These standard masks are made from 100% cotton which makes them breathable and washable. Adjustable straps make the mask a perfect fit for you and the removable faux pearl beads enhances the look. (Two masks are $28).

4. Mali + Lili lightweight cotton, four-layer Mask Scarf helps you stay healthy while elevating your look. The M+L Mask Scarf includes a pocket to insert a filter for extra protection and thin elastic ear-loops for comfort and security. When not covering your face, one can wear the Mask Scarf effortlessly around your neck. The M+L mask is made in Los Angeles with natural lightweight fabrics with a luxe shine. (One mask is $40). Mali + Lili also offer a lightweight cotton three-layer Contour Mask Scarf that provides full coverage. There is a nose wire for accurate fit and a pocket for a filter if desired. The Contour Mask Scarf allows wearers to be hands-free when not wearing their mask on their face. Wear it around your neck for a cool, 2021 modern look.

5. Social Coverings makes a double layer mask with an overlapping opening for easy straw access to sip your favorite beverage and stay safe. College grad Jesse Weinstein (SDSU) quickly invented these unique face masks during the pandemic for those who love sipping smoothies, iced coffee and other beverages while continuing to stay safe while wear a protective facial mask.The breathable plant-based fabric face covering is gentle on skin and the custom design won’t fog glasses. Order a starter pack to receive one face cover, a reusable metal logo straw made of hypoallergenic black steel, a straw brush, and an attachable printed cotton strap to keep your face cover conveniently around your neck.

Stay safe, stay healthy, wear a mask in 2021.