The Next Must Have Accessory

  Mask & top from Superbe

Masks have been part of traditional and ceremonial dress since the beginning of civilization. More recently masks have been employed in pop culture. Outlaws have worn them- think Zorro or bank robbers. But this summer, masks may become a "must have" on a whole new level! Many brands and designers have picked up the opportunity to make and design fashionable masks for social and health reasons and most are also donating them to healthcare workers.

Female politicians have been appearing in business suits or dresses with color- coordinated hygienic masks and scarves. They are setting a socially responsible and stylish example.  Billie Eilish wore a Gucci face-covering, coordinated with her outfit to the Grammys before the pandemic hit the US. Designer Marine Serre used them in her Spring 2020 Paris Fashion Week show, both as a statement against pollution and the onset of the coronavirus. Masks may even help celebrities blend in to avoid paparazzi!

It looks like masks will be with us for awhile to help from spreading the virus and to keep us from touching our faces, so why not have some fun with them? There are so many beautiful, fun and original choices now. Cloth masks are best for civilians. Many of those making these masks below and donating one or more for every one sold. Check the websites for more info.

 Etsy is all about masks right now and offers diverse choices. Here's a few-

I love some designer and common brand ones also.

Disney Star Wars                           Alice and Olivia

Johnny Was

     Old Navy                                     Rag and Bone

                St John                                         8 Other Reasons

  Gucci

Most of us have been wearing hygienic face masks for weeks, and many of us don’t do it correctly. Important facts to remember-

• Even surgical masks don’t guarantee complete protection. You wear a mask to protect others, not yourself
• Don’t touch your mask once in place
• Don’t wear your mask on your chin or on your forehead
• Wash your hands before putting on your mask and after removing it
• Pull off the mask by the elastic or ties, not by touching the front
• Wear a mask for 4 hours maximum
• Wash your cloth face covering in hot water regularly
• And of course, discard your disposable masks in the proper receptacles, and remember to wash your hands often.

As things let up, please stay safe and use common sense :)