We’re venturing outside in the world of other people again. Slowly. Cautiously. And with a mask. While wearing a face mask is a new habit for most Americans, it can be made a bit easier by having a style we’re comfortable wearing. Are we feeling floral or maybe plaid today? Here’s a look at a few options we found that are available in Fairfield County – though things change quickly, so be sure to confirm all information with the seller. All images are courtesy of the shops and brands.
DETAILS, DETAILS
Only the dapper Stephen Kempson of Westport could make a mask seem like the “it” accessory of the summer. What would you expect from a bespoke tailor but a well-made mask in appealing designs. They run $25 each, with $5 going to a local charity. And we hear he now offers styles for children. @stephenkempsonlondon
HIS AND HERS
The shop She La La is made for wandering, looking at jewelry, home goods, clothing. When social distancing rolled into town, they pivoted to bring that experience to an online shop and pick-up services. Also new, they introduced masks. They have some twenty designs, including those with filter ($18), designs men will wear ($20), pretty florals ($15) and ones for children. They are all cotton and washable. For each mask sold, She la la donates a mask to someone in need, and shoppers can donate to help provide PPE to local, low-income families. Find them at shopshelala.com.
ALL THE FRILLS
Plumed Serpent Bridal is all about romance, so when we needed to wear masks, the shop made fancy versions. At two for $25, shoppers can pay for them via Venmo account @alison-luciano. Proceeds go into making more regular masks for our healthcare workers. They’ve already donated hundreds. They also have a masculine grey/black mask. See the “Covid Masks” highlight @plumedserpentct IG.
COFFEE WITH THAT?
Get your coffee and a mask. These are three layers of cotton material and handmade in Stamford and designs vary, but they’re only $10. Also, $5 is dontated to The Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County for everyone that’s sold. Pick up at Lorca in Stamford or online. Lorcacoffeebar.com
PURELY PREPPY
Nantucket Monogram in New Canaan is making preppy masks, with monogram (of course). Some styles are one of a kind or limited availability. They offer curbside pick-up, local delivery or shipping. Order via DM at Nantucket_monogram IG.
LESS IS MORE
For those who want a style that appears utilitarian and minimalist leaning, consider LMNtal. This Copper Line Anti-Microbial Mask runs $34.99 and comes in kids’ sizes. They pride themselves on providing safe products, no tricky pricing, clear details, and being friendly. See more at lmntal.com (Westport).
STRETCH IT OUT
These adult masks from Chou Chou have a secret. The material includes the comfy stretch of Lyrca for comfort. Plus, they’re breathable and come in a variety of styles. Find them through DM @chuchouct on IG. (Rowayton)
SWEET AS HONEY
The Park City Honey Co.’s Etsy shop, The Pretty Farmer, offers masks in a variety of styles, leaning to a vintage vibe and details, like pom-poms and petite roseettes. There’s a choice for everyone (including children). They are cotton, fitted over nose and under chin, and run in a variety of sizes, run between $11 and $13, and ship free. etsy.com/shop/TheParkCityHoneyCo (Fairfield)
JUST THE FACTS
Are you a purist? Get back to basics, perhaps, with a handsewn masks. We spied this one for only $10 at SY Cleaners & Linen in Greenwich. @sycleaners on IG.
All images by designers/brands