Although it is no longer a legal requirement to wear masks in shops and public spaces, many of us are still wearing them out of respect for public health. Some are opting for the full face shield or even a balaclava instead of the standard face mask, whatever your preference the mask is now seen as an accessory to your outfit rather than a burden. Emerging designers are looking at ways to incorporate personal protective equipment (PPE) into the luxury fashion market to make masks and shields more wearable.
Here are some of our favourite face masks tackling the luxury fashion market:
Rosantica Crystal Embellished Face Mask (£550)
If you fancy making a bold, shiny statement. We cannot guarantee that the shine will stop the germs though. Shop here.
Corteiz ‘RTW’ Balaclava (£30)
If you fancy repping South London with a Corteiz balaclava, putting on one of these will make you feel like you can ‘rule the world’. Due to such high demand, you may have to suffer paying resell prices or waiting for their next highly anticipated drop.
Balmain (£175)
This will certainly turn heads at your local supermarket. Balmain’s take on the luxury face mask uses its classic monogram knitted onto fine cotton. A statement piece for sure. Available here.
Homme Plissé Issey Miyake (£109)
The use of the brand’s famous pleats doesn’t just stop at their clothing, it continues onto their accessories as well. Possibly the most stylish yet casual face mask we have seen, and if it starts to get a bit chilly it can also be used as a neck warmer or hat. Three for the price of one! Shop here.
Louis Vuitton Shield Visor (£690)
The LV Shield Visor is definitely a statement accessory, combining both craftsmanships with fashion-forward appeal. The shield has a photochromic visor which gets darker the more it is exposed to sunlight, for added protection. We’re not sure how necessary that is with the unpredictable British weather though. Obviously, the canvas straps are embossed with the House’s Monogram accompanied with LV studs to allow for comfortable movement. Available on their website.
Joe Doucet ‘Vueshield’ ($39)
Worn recently by Nick Jonas for British GQ, New York designer, Joe Doucet has designed a face shield with integrated sunglass lenses and arms for added practicality. Available to purchase from Doucet’s website here.
Yi Fei Chen (current project)
With a goal to tackle accessibility, Chen has factored in face-recognition technologies for unlocking your phone with her face shield. “What if using facial protection no longer means losing individuality, may it help users to express themselves as a fashion item does?”. We can’t wait for this one. You can view the process and design leaks here.
Marine Serre (£120)
Made using entirely recyclable fabrics, Marine Serre’s mask is covered with its desirable crescent moon motif. and is guaranteed to bump your status within the fashion world. Available to purchase online on Selfridges website.
Rick Owens Balaclava (£320)
With Kanye West’s upcoming DONDA release sending everyone into a frenzy. He has been covering his face with balaclavas at large, the Rick Owens Balaclava being one of them. Made with cashmere for added comfort, why not jump on the hype train. Available on Selfridges.
Raf Simons Balaclava (£217)
Worn by the likes of Playboi Carti, these Mohair balaclavas may not be medically tested to stop spreading germs but you have to admit it looks pretty good.