By Leah Groth, carolin lehmann
Updated on: January 14, 2022 / 2:13 PM / Essentials
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With coronavirus infection rates on the rise -- the CDC now reports that more than 99.5% of all U.S. counties are currently experiencing high or substantial levels of community transmission of COVID-19 -- you may be in the market for some new face masks to protect against the coronavirus Omicron variant . The CDC says that vaccination is the best step the public can take to protect against severe illness and slow the emergence of new variants. But, the agency notes, "masks offer protection against all variants." Luckily, some of your favorite fashion brands, from designer to under-the-radar, now make masks that both look good and offer protection.
But, of course, not all masks are created equal. The CDC recommends face masks that have multiple layers of material. For extra protection, a disposable mask underneath a cloth mask is recommended (double masking). Wash your cloth masks between uses, and be sure to only wear disposable masks once. The CDC recommends against single-layer masks, and masks that do not form a proper leak-free fit over your mouth and nose.
For optimum protection, consider using an N95 face mask. These masks feature multiple layers of construction, and have a minimum of 95% efficiency at filtering particles larger than 0.3 microns when worn correctly. For more information on N95 face masks, including where to buy them, check out our guide to N95 face masks .
The face masks by fashion brands ahead offer multiple layers of protection and sometimes pockets for disposable filters. Gone are the days when severe-looking disposable paper masks served as the only option. Below, statement-making face masks, from budget-friendly to splurges, that you can mask up with now.
Outdoor clothing and gear brand Outdoor Research has a reviewer-loved face mask that comes with three single-use disposable filters and a storage pouch. Its ear loops are adjustable and it has a nose wire. Its fabric is water- and stain-repellent.
Outdoor Research essential adult face mask, $10 (reduced from $20)
This facial covering from luxury skincare brand Joanna Czech comes with adjustable straps and a built-in filter pocket.
Joanna Czech Skincare reusable face mask, $24 and up
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, put Magic Linen on the map when she wore one of the brand's shift dresses to an event in 2020. Wear a face mask constructed out of the same high-quality linen, which features an insert slot for a filter for extra protection. They're purchasable both a la carte and as a set, all currently half off. (The brand recommends you use this mask in conjunction with a medical-grade mask on the inside.)
Magic Linen face mask, $6 (reduced from $12)
Magic Linen five mask bundle, $26 (was $52)
You might not have Enro on your radar, but know this: The protective, breathable, durable and comfortable masks have amassed a celebrity fanbase including Kaia Gerber, Emma Roberts and Katherine Schwarzenegger. Each mask has three layers, a PM0.1 filter and an exclusive fabrication that's 40% more breathable than cotton. Available in sizes XXS to L.
Enro face masks, $16 and up
Made with a 100% silk lining inside and an outer layer of high-density natural cotton, this moisture-wicking and cooling face mask from Vida oozes understated luxury. Washable and reusable, it also includes a filter pocket and comes in your choice of five colors.
Popular for her embellished headbands and hair accessories, designer Lele Sadoughi's face masks are equally eye-grabbing. The two-layer masks feature a filter pocket and are available in a wide range of patterns, from casual plaids to pearl-adorned black-tie glam.
Lele Sadoughi face masks, $20 and up
Need a refined and sophisticated face mask to go with a suit and tie? Brooks Brothers offers a bunch of professional-looking options, all inspired by men's dress shirts. They feature built-in filter pockets.
Brooks Brothers windowpane reusable mask, $15
First published on December 15, 2021 / 8:19 PM
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