Let's Talk About Masks Ba-by

Please tell me you get the reference.

Do I or do I not look like Madeline in this mask?! I'm living out childhood dreams here. Like come on, I even have the appendix scar! The similarities are uncanny.

During my shopping phase that I talked about in a previous post (QUARANTINE HAS RUINED ME: Shopping Addiction Edition), I finally broke down and decided to invest in a reusable mask that I deem fashionable. I can't stand using those blue disposable ones; I feel far too guilty about the waste production, when I know I could just buy a couple of cloth masks and throw them in the wash. The search for my perfect mask proved to be far more extensive than I had anticipated, but I found a lot of cute reusable masks to share with you as inspiration for your own mask journeys!

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First, I MUST tell you about how I came to buy the mask in the pictures! I scoured the internet for cute masks, and I decided I wanted one of the ones that tie behind the ears because I liked the look of the ties draped over your shoulders. I stumbled upon the brand Clare V. Their style is very Parisian, so a lot of their products are right up my alley. While looking at their masks, I had one of those THAT'S IT moments; the ones that leave you comparing every similar item to the item that you first set your eyes on. It was a nantucket red linen mask with cherry red stitching at the seams. It had the Clare V. logo (a pair of red lips) embroidered into the top of the mask. It was...perfect. And it was sold out.

(I will link the current version of this mask here!)

I watched this mask for WEEKS. I even subscribed to be notified of when they restocked it. I kept searching, but nothing peaked my interest like that mask did. Eventually, I broke down and went back to the website to check out the other colors they had available in the same style. I considered the blue and red version of the mask for the first time, and decided to purchase it. I SHIT YOU NOT, an HOUR after I purchased the blue mask, I received an email telling me that the initial mask was back in stock. I almost went back and bought the red one as well, but they had a note on the website saying that it no longer had the cherry red accent stitching (and I successfully convinced myself that that was enough of a reason to save my money).

In the end, I am glad I didn't buy the red mask, because as cute as my blue one is, it has soooo much fabric. It is double lined, which is great, but when the pleats are unfolded, the mask completely covers under my chin and some of my neck. Lots of protection, but not the most comfortable. Keep in mind, I have a very small face and have recently switched to purchasing child-sized masks, so really, I'm the problem. If you truly love this design as much as I did, I highly suggest! But if this one isn't your cup of tea, keep reading for a few other options.

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My reusable mask finds!

Rag & Bone : Rag & Bone has released a line of masks called The Stealth Mask Pack. These masks are upcycled, which means they are created from leftover or previously-used fabrics. They are 100% cotton, and the way that they are sewn allows the mask to stand apart from the face in the center, leaving room for large noses such as my own. This is a perfect option for those looking for a more unisex, utilitarian look.

Liberty London : I purchased a set of masks from J. Crew recently through their collaboration with this gorgeous London brand. Sadly, the J. Crew Collection has sold out, BUT Liberty is selling a set of five masks through their website! Liberty is a gorgeous, Tudor-style department store in London that is famous for its beautiful floral prints. They are upcycling their excess floral-patterned fabrics and making triple-layered, 100% cotton face masks.

Lisa Says Gah : Lisa Says Gah is a trendy brand that is taking over the internet right now! (And I'm 100% ok with that! The brand focuses on partnering with female designers and highlighting artistry in fashion.) They came out with a 100% cotton, double-layered face mask. It's perfectly simplistic and it comes in a bunch of different colors! With every mask purchased, they donate a dollar to the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank. They even include a cost breakdown on their website, so you can see where every cent of your purchase is going! (I just bought this mask in ivory as I wrote this description...oops.)

graf lantz : Graf lantz has designed a sleek face mask made from 100% organic OEKO-TEX® certified cotton twill. The mask is gorgeously modern and sophisticated! It comes in a ton of rich, beautiful colors, and the flap for your nose ensures comfort during wear. The mask comes in two styles: elastic around the ears and elastic over the head. You can also put filters in this one! Graf lantz offers buying in bulk for companies that need to provide their workers with masks during this time. (Imagine being given such a gorgeous mask for work?!) AND they donate 10 meals to Feeding America per mask sold! The company as a whole is also committed to sustainable practices, so I personally would feel good about sending my money their way.

I hope this provided some inspiration! Happy masking!!

xoxo

Nicolette