For non-essential workers and the general public, the masks we first wore were most likely one of those standard issue baby blue surgical ones. Masks quickly morphed into a new segment of the DIY market as supplies of this crucial item evaporated. In response to the overwhelming need, COVID-19 face coverings were being crafted by home sewers out of everything from bandanas to tea towels. In those first fevered weeks when the coronavirus was raging, and little was known about how the devastating disease was spread, we scrambled as a nation to procure and provide masks for essential workers.
Masks proliferated and further evolved as protests against police brutality and long-seated racial injustices against the black community spilled into the streets creating crowds where social distancing was impossible making the wearing of masks a matter of life and death. At the same time the virus continued to engulf the country and the world. Folks came to realize that the blank piece of cloth worn over the lower half of the face was the perfect vehicle for personal statements. Soon Black Lives Matter, I Can't Breathe and African print masks were widely seen during demonstrations as we collectively tried to wrap our minds around the horrifying murder of George Floyd captured in gut-wrenching detail on video. But wait....the evolution of the mask was still going through constrictions. Political candidates, sports teams, licensed cartoon characters and more all began to show up as additional offerings.
Today masks in pretty much any design, from humorous to ultra chic, are easy to find. You can even grab a jumbo box of those blue surgical ones, if that's your preference, from the drive-up prescription window of your local Walgreens. Many masks are now made with a pocket where a filter can be inserted for an added level of security. Others offer adjustable fasteners to affix more closely to your face. My personal favorite among all these options are purchased on a subscription basis from Henry Mask. The masks fold flat and are perfect for travel. You receive four masks with each monthly shipment, they're washable and come in adult, teen and kids sizes in a variety of solid colors and prints. I highly recommend this fashion-forward line designed by Richfresh and modeled by yours truly below right. I coordinated this particular mask with some vintage pieces from the Baekgaard colorful leather collection from my days serving on their design team.
Henry Mask also has a charitable giveaway called Mask Money Monday during which they give $1,000 to a subscriber who posts a picture of themselves wearing their mask. The lucky winners get to donate the cash to their favorite charity, someone in need or an organization. Please consider supporting this small black-owned business which is donating one mask to essential workers for every one sold. For more information on Henry Mask see the links below. Whether you choose to make a statement with your mask, or keep it low key, remember to select one that reflects your personal style while offering the most protection and comfort.
https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/health-wellness/bespoke-tailor-richfresh-launches-face-mask-subscription-service-henry-2913120/
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