The Mycenaean

From left to right, Alexis Mast, Ally Fuhrer, Lauren Rousos, Savannah Mudd, Olivia Heany, and Maren Jones, all wearing their mask. Some of their masks match their outfits, others are wearing them just for functional purposes. (Photo Courtesy of Viviana Straniero) 

As the COVID-19 pandemic sweeps the nation, masks are mandatory to keep us safe in public; and along with the protective purpose comes the optional addition of style. 

Fashionistas are starting to enjoy the idea of matching their mask to their outfit. Having a mask that matches an outfit makes wearing the mask more fun in such a scary time. It is an amusing fashion move. 

“I like to match my mask to my outfit because it makes it easier to want to wear my mask,” said Ally Fuhrer, a sophomore at Leesville Road High School. 

With a mask for every taste and budget, wearing a stylish mask is a way to express oneself. “When I look at someone my eye is automatically drawn to their mask and it kind of gives me a first read to the person,” said Sydney Irby, also a student at Leesville Road High School. 

Here are some ways people are incorporating mask into their outfits:

Pictured is Angel Obasi, the person who runs the Instagram account Style Connaisseur. Designers are starting to release tops with a matching mask that comes with it. (Photo courtesy of public domain, @styleconnaisseur on Instagram)

Pictured is Shelly Horst, co-founder of Room Shop Vintage. “Our customers love a matching look,” she said via Instagram. (Photo courtesy of public domain, @roomshopvintage on Instagram)  

Masks are now considered an accessory along with sunglasses, hats, bracelets, etc. An accessory can take any outfit from drab to fab, so why not match masks to an outfit? Just like other accessories, one’s mask can be glam or rudimentary. 

It is not just the matching sets that are becoming popular. Other designers are making masks with rhinestones, glitter, fringe, and other glamorous details. 

Although it is a little odd to talk about something medical becoming a fashion statement, we should embrace masks because they are now a part of our everyday lives and one of the most important parts of our wardrobe.