Face masks have become second nature to me. I keep all of mine in a small basket near my door, just so I don’t forget them on my way out the door. When wearing masks first started being recommended, I wasn’t sure where to find them. My mom found a pattern and sewed some for me, and I started sewing my own too. I never really found the one-use masks appealing, since I am very passionate about the environment and didn’t want to contribute to the waste problem that has only worsened because of this pandemic. As a result, I started to search for cute masks that would allow me to express myself and save the Earth.
I’ve noticed that small entrepreneurs and artists have used face masks as a perfect opportunity to express their creativity and allow people to wear unique and fun masks. One person that I follow on instagram, Iris Engel, is @ms.conduct.inc. Their website is irisengel.com. They make masks that can be totally customizable, but they do have some designs already up on their website. Some of their masks are airbrushed, others are tie-dyed, and some use recycled fabrics. What I really love about Iris Engel is that they use zero-waste methods, so you know that you are supporting not only a single individual, but also a sustainable brand. In addition to face masks, Iris also offers reusable menstrual pads. They started doing this through the organization Days for Girls, but continued to offer them when they realized that there was a need for eco-friendly menstrual products. For all of their products, the excess profits will go towards the Black Lives Matter movement. Their goal is to end plastic waste from menstruation and the pandemic. Supporting small businesses like Iris Engel is rewarding as a consumer and allows you to support both an individual and the environment!
Another great place to buy masks is from the company, Baggu. They have a variety of options, ranging from solid colors to cool and funky patterned ones. The costs of these masks are fairly reasonable (only $32), since you buy in packs of three. They have the option of either an ear loop design or a tied design depending on your preference! Their face masks have an adjustable nose wire and ear loops, as well as a pocket where a filter could be inserted. The masks are made out of organic cotton. You can also feel good about supporting Baggu, because they are another sustainable brand. Their main product is reusable bags (I would highly recommend checking those out as well), which are all different colors and patterns. Baggu practices sustainability by designing for longevity, minimizing waste, and using as few materials as possible. They recently released an all-vegan line, which uses recycled nylon and recycled canvas. This is another brand that you can feel good about buying from and supporting!
I am the biggest fangirl for the store, Room Shop, a local Philadelphia brand! It is owned by a married couple who curate vintage clothing and even sell their own designs. They are most well known for their scrunchies, which come in all different sizes and fabrics, including giant scrunchies. Room Shop recently released face masks that can match head scarves or their scrunchies. My favorite product they have is their satin scrunchie/mask duo. You can match your giant scrunchie to your mask to make a bold statement! Room Shop’s face masks use headband elastic in order to not tangle your hair, and uses a behind the head fit, which is unique and something that I haven’t seen before. This allows the mask to fit more sizes and give your ears a rest from other masks that you might have. Room Shop also offers small add-ons to their masks that they will sew on for you, or you can buy separately! These are vintage items that add a little flair to your already uniquely designed face mask and scrunchie or headscarf! I really love that Room Shop sources the fabric for these masks from local shops. Buying from Room Shop allows you to support multiple parts of the Philadelphia community, while also giving you one of the cutest masks ever!
Wearing a mask doesn’t have to be boring or hurt the environment. There are plenty of companies out there that are designing fun and sustainable face masks that you can wear! Make a statement and be bold with your face mask choice! It’s a part of your everyday life, so why not have fun with it?