12 Most Stylish Face Masks You Can Buy Online
Updated: Sep. 01, 2023
Great looking face masks are this year's must-have fashion accessory.
Function before fashion
Since the pandemic started, face masks have become part of our everyday wardrobe. In fact, many top designers have begun to add masks to their lines—some just as a fashion statement. This worries some experts, including Rashid A. Chotani, MD, epidemiologist and medical review board member for HealthCentral, who says, “The pandemic is not a style issue but a public health crisis.”
That said, you don’t have to sacrifice form for function. There are so many stylish face masks out there, and you just have to find the ones that have as much substance as good looks.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most effective cloth masks are made of tightly woven fabrics, such as cotton and cotton blends, that are breathable and have two or three layers. And, like any well-made item of clothing, they should fit properly with no gaps.
Dr. Chotani warns that neck fleeces, gaiters, and masks made from t-shirts, bandanas, or any knit materials should be avoided because the material is too thin and porous to be effective. And if they become saturated with germs, it can actually be worse for you than not wearing a mask at all. “Remember that the construction of the mask affects its effectiveness,” he explains. “Fabric has different sized spacing, think of them as holes, between individual yarns, which makes a difference. The smaller the hole, the more difficult it is for the virus to pass through. Dense and tightly woven fabrics offer the best chance of protection.”
We’ve put together a collection of some of the most stylish face masks you can buy online. They give you the confidence to go outside, knowing you not only look good but are also doing good by protecting yourself and those around you.
Note: Prices listed were accurate as of press time; pricing fluctuations may occur.
Best budget-conscious face mask: Medi+Sons Supply Washable 3-Layer Designer Women’s Face Mask, 3-pack
$5.99
At $2.00 apiece, you’ll want to stock up on these pretty floral masks. Each mask is made out of three individual layers of soft, 100 percent cotton, and features a pleated design that expands for a snug fit. There’s a pocket for a filter, and the masks are machine washable.
Best women’s face mask: VIDA Artist Print Limited Edition Mask
$18.00
Manufactured responsibly in Karachi, Pakistan to support maker communities and the environment, these limited-edition masks are made of two layers of locally-sourced, locally-produced 100 percent organic cotton. They come with three filters, adjustable earloop straps, and an integrated, hidden metal nose piece that meets CDC guidelines for a snug, comfortable fit. They’re so lovely, you’ll want to collect them the way you collect art.
Best men’s face mask: Masks2helpNYC Fall Fashion Face Mask Tweed Print
$8.00
Handmade of three layers of cotton plus a filter insert, this handsome tweed mask is sporty yet professional. And, oh, is it soft. Adjustable ear loops can be tightened to fit your individual needs, and a portion of all proceeds are donated to charity. These eye-opening facts will convince you to wear a mask.
Best children’s face mask: littleKMD Kids Face Mask
$11.25
This bestselling mask comes in so many fun patterns, kids will actually enjoy wearing one. Handmade in 100 percent cotton, you can choose between double or triple layers and whether or not you want to use the enclosed nose wire. What makes this a favorite for kids, though, is that, instead of ear loops, it secures with a black elastic band that goes around the head and neck. This is much more comfortable, especially for kids with sensitive ears.
Best Bohemian face mask: Lulu Dharma Reversible Face Mask
$14.99
Reversible and eco-friendly, these Bohemian-inspired face masks let you embrace your inner flower child while keeping you—and those around you—safe. Featuring three layers of 100 percent cotton fabric and cushy fabric-covered elastic ear loops, they’re available in seven gorgeous prints and come with a pleat for extra coverage. Your most difficult decision about these reversible masks will be which side to wear. Check out these photos that show that wearing face masks is the new normal.
Best blingy face mask: Natalie Mills Destiny Crystal Face Mask
$22.50
Who says masks can’t be glam? This handmade mask is embellished with the highest-quality Austrian crystals set on two layers of cotton and a pocket that comes with its own disposable filter. It has almost 3000 five-star reviews, and you may want this mask in every single color. Machine washable, lightweight, and breathable, Destiny calls!
Best winter face mask: PhiladelphiaMade Merino Wool Face Mask
$17.00
As cozy and classic as your favorite winter coat, these stunning masks have a timeless look that will make you wish for cold weather. Each mask is handmade with a 100 percent wool external layer and your choice of cotton, cotton flannel, or Merino wool on the inside. The Merino wool is soft, not scratchy, and is the same fabric used in expensive Italian men’s suits. This will quickly become part of your winter wardrobe.
Best vacation face mask: Weddingstar 3-Ply Adult Washable Cloth Face Mask
Price: $11.04
Even if you can’t travel now, this pretty mask will make you feel like you’re on a tropical island. Made of cotton and rayon, it offers three layers of superior protection and an insert sleeve to hold a filter. It has adjustable ear straps for maximum comfort and a flexible wire noseband for a snug fit. Make sure you follow these etiquette rules when wearing a mask.
Best glasses-friendly face mask: ililily Cotton Floral Patterned Face Cover
$16.99
Blooming with flowers, this cotton mask has a cotton filter pocket lining and ear straps with a toggle to adjust for your comfort. Its nose wire prevents glasses from fogging up – a common problem with many masks—so you don’t have to be bothered with endlessly wiping them down. Check out this spray which keeps your glasses fog-free.
Best water-repellent face mask: VIDA Eco REPREVE Face Mask
$16.00
Designed by artists around the world, these conversation piece masks are made out of a certified water repellent performance fiber produced from recycled plastic bottles. They’re made to order for you, and are ideal for workouts or getting caught in the rain. Each mask comes with three multi-layer, replaceable filters and a hidden metal nose piece for a snug fit. A sporty touch of spandex adds comfort.
Best basic black face mask: AnnaGuptaDesigns Elegant Black Diamond Designer Face Mask
$24.99
Although it will become as much of a wardrobe staple as a little black dress, this stunning black face mask is anything but basic. Handmade with meticulous attention to detail, the triple-layered mask is elegant and breathable and comes with a pocket for a filter. Available in different sizes, it works equally well for men and women and is perfect for a couple attending a dressy function together.
Best face mask for sensitive skin: SoftStrokesSilk Triple Layer Silk Face Mask with Insert Pocket
$15.26
If other fabrics tend to irritate your skin or cause breakouts, these masks in 100 percent mulberry silk will be a game-changer. Handmade in your choice of triple-layer earth, jewel, or plant tones, they come with a filter pocket and a filter. A nose wire and elastics with adjustable buttons make it easy to get a snug fit—the better to appreciate those three layers of silk against your skin.
Source:
- Rashid A. Chotani, MD, epidemiologist and medical review board member for HealthCentral
For more ways to stay safe, see our comprehensive Coronavirus Guide.
Originally Published: December 01, 2020
