Wearing masks has been integrated into our daily lives; by now, it’s almost second nature to reach for a mask every time before we leave the house. Since it’s an indispensable addition to our outfits, many have tried to spruce things up with stylish reusable mask designs, or even accessories that elevate the face covering as a contemporary collateral to their overall outfit.
Accessories like face mask chains, by the US-based label Second Wind, have especially grown in popularity over the months. Similar to sunglass chains, these face mask chains clip to the ear loops of the mask which allows you to wear it like a necklace and have the mask dangle around your neck when it’s not in use.
Other ways to make a statement include matching your face masks to your printed headband – a style popularised by Lele Sadoughi, and even beaded fringing on your face coverings. Below, we’ve rounded up our favourite accessories and mask styles that will make “safety precaution” and “style” work in tandem.
Founded by a former fashion editor, local brand Luulaa (@luulaa.co) offers ethically sourced home and decor pieces and fashion accessories such as earrings, necklaces and belts. The newest addition to its collection? Dainty beaded multiway chains that function as mask chains, sunglass/spectacle chains and necklaces too. This handmade product is a collaboration with local polymer clay earring brand Tangled Pieces (@tangledpieces_). A pearl chain version ($39) is available as well. Pre-order from November 25 at luulaa.co.
The mask chains by Second Wind are carefully handmade to be the perfect complement to their line of neutral-toned linen masks. One of our favourite picks from the brand is this detachable chunky chain strap that’s surprisingly lightweight. Crafted in chunky chain links with a tan marbled design, this mask chain is finished with gold S-shaped hooks to attach to your mask of choice.
Known for its whimsical, adorable accessories, Lele Sadoughi has garnered a strong profile clientele that includes Hilary Duff and Kate Middleton, the latter of whom was spotted wearing the brand’s black velvet padded headband. In response to the pandemic, the brand has also started creating fashionable soft cotton masks that sport all sorts of feminine prints and designs, from pearl adornments to lace pattern work – and along with those masks, matching headbands. This mask and matching headband is embroidered with yellow daisy eyelets for a fresh, uplifting charm.
This chain by Los Angeles brand Donni is strung with wooden beads and freshwater pearls for a contemporary artisanal look. Serving a double function as both a mask chain and a sunglass chain, this convertible accessory comes with removable plastic loops that will attach to the temples of your glasses. Clip this onto your mask and team it with neutral separates for a polished look.
A fine jewellery brand from Dubai that crafts luxurious and elegant jewellery pieces for the contemporary woman, Aquae Jewels uses pure 18k gold and diamonds to detail its many exquisite pieces, all while maintaining a relatively affordable price given the quality. The brand has also produced mask pins encrusted in precious jewels such as diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. We’d recommend attaching these pins to the ear straps of your masks instead of the mask itself for precaution.
Collina Strada’s masks are made from deadstock fabric from previous collections, patterned with vibrant crayon-like doodles, and fitted with statement bows that doubles as an extravagant hair accessory. The mask also comes with an opening for you to insert a filter in. Channel your creativity and express yourself with this bold number by fashioning the statement ribbons in any way you want to.
Strung with round jade beads, freshwater pearls, and gold-plated chain links, this unique strap boasts of a modern, high-fashion look by melding traditional and contemporary influences and using natural elements in its design. Handcrafted for an exquisite touch, this chain strap will look stunning next to a pair of minimalist pearl earrings, and a relaxed linen maxi dress for the weekend.
Finding a way to infuse face masks with a playful spirit, small independent label Abacaxi has designed a series of reversible cotton face masks with hand-beaded fringing in shades of baby pink, lilac and lavender, with long pink bows that are also finished at the ends with matching beaded fringe. A crafty design that speaks to the label’s love for South Asian textiles and traditional clothing influences, this mask will set you apart from the crowd with its distinctive design.