Written by Samra Karamustafic
Face masks are becoming cuter and trendier by the day — check out the most popular trends we’ve seen so far this year.
Face masks — they’ve become this year’s most unexpected must-have accessory. What began as just grabbing the first box of disposable masks you saw in the grocery store has evolved into a fashionable trend that not only helps prevent the spread of COVID-19, but has put a spotlight on independent sellers across the nation, granting them the opportunity to unleash their creativity while making it possible to support themselves during this challenging year.
Cloth masks are versatile — they’re washable, reusable and you can easily make your own at home with your favorite types of fabrics. But if sewing is not your best friend, it’s okay: a plethora of masks with various designs are available online (and in-store). If you’re looking to have some fun with your face mask this season and you’re trying to add a little something-something to your wardrobe, read on to see what mask trends have been the most popular this year so far and where you can find them!
Animal Print Face Masks
Animal print: you either love it or hate it.
The classic print made a surprising comeback last fall, with stores stocked full of a variety of leopard- and cheetah-printed sweaters. This seems to be the case for this fall season too — just swap the sweater out for a face mask!
If you absolutely adore all things leopard print, you’re in luck! Because this is one of the most popular face mask designs of the season, you can easily find a face mask to your liking on Etsy, Amazon, and even in retail stores like Francesca’s and Forever 21.
Francesca’s
$9.99
Autumn-themed Masks
If sweater weather, pumpkin spice lattes and Halloween movie marathons aren’t enough for your fall-loving self, treat yourself to a cute fall-themed face mask! Not only will it make for the perfect combination with your favorite sweater, but just imagine how many adorable photoshoots you could have if you wore that the next time you went apple-picking or to a pumpkin patch! Retail stores haven’t quite hopped onto the “fall-themed face mask” bandwagon yet, but you can find hundreds of autumn-related designs on Etsy and Redbubble.
Etsy
$13.59
Rhinestone ‘Bling’ Face Masks
Who doesn’t want to feel a little glam while wearing a face mask? Sparkly, bedazzled face masks are sure to add a little bling to any one of your outfits, whether you’re going for a (socially-distanced) night out or heading to class.
Forever 21
$12.99
"Let’s face it: 2020 has been a challenging year, especially in regards to our nation’s political, social, and cultural climate — and on top of that, we’re in the middle of an election year!"
Masks with a Message
Let’s face it: 2020 has been a challenging year, especially in regards to our nation’s political, social, and cultural climate — and on top of that, we’re in the middle of an election year! As we are witnessing a monumental time in our history, more and more individuals want to showcase their beliefs, ideals, and values in any way they can — and face mask makers have caught wind of that desire. Thanks to independent sellers on Etsy and Amazon, you can find a face mask with nearly any cause or belief plastered on it, whether that’s climate change, a particular presidential candidate, a social justice movement, or something else. (Bumper stickers and t-shirts are so 2019, anyway).
Etsy
$14.95
Floral Masks
Whether you’re looking to add a little bit of color to your simple outfit, or you’re just a floral fanatic, buying a floral mask is a must for you. Florals are one of the most popular types of patterns, and it comes as no surprise that floral masks have graced the face mask scene — they’ve been a consistent best-seller since March! A variety of sellers and retailers have floral masks fully stocked,, including a brand known for their bright and colorful floral patterns: Vera Bradley! If Vera Bradley simply isn’t your style, you can find more floral masks at Target, Amazon, Etsy, and more.
Vera Bradley
$8
Pop Culture Masks
To any and all diehard pop culture fans — this one’s for you. What better and more fun way to show off your favorite TV show, movie or movie franchise than with your face mask? Pop-culture-related masks are growing in popularity by the day, so much so that Redbubble, a company known for allowing different fandoms to incorporate their art into t-shirt, sweatshirt, and other apparel designs, have added a face mask option to their website! This means that you can find a face mask for just about any fandom out there, whether that’s Harry Potter or even a celebrity. Etsy is also home to a lot of face mask makers who are a part of fandoms themselves and are making themed masks to prove it.
Etsy
$12
Whatever kind of face mask you decide to buy, just make sure that it will do what it’s made for: keeping you and others safe. Double-check to see if it has a face filter that’s included in the design or a pocket that gives you the ability to insert your own filter. If it looks to be just a thin and flimsy piece of cloth, try to find a better alternative. Since it seems as though face masks are here to stay for a while, why not have a little bit of fun with them?