For the Culture: Shop Face Masks Made by Women of Color
Stay safe and support the culture
In the words of Boyz II Men, “can we just go back to the way it used to be?” Probably not thanks to the global pandemic known as COVID-19. It’s a new normal, to say the least, and in this new world order PPE (personal protective equipment) such as face masks are precious commodities.
This past week the CDC issued a recommendation that Americans wear face masks and facial cloths in public to help slow the spread of COVID-19. This is especially important in settings where social distancing can be difficult such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and public transportation. With the majority of medical-grade N95 masks reserved for medical and frontline workers, many Americans were left to their own DIY tactics when it came to facial coverings. In response to the growing demand, and in typical culture form, minority designers, entrepreneurs and side hustlers have stepped up in a major and swag-filled way offering unique yet effective face coverings, many with the proceeds being used for COVID-relief efforts.
It is important to note, that while recommended to slow the spread of COVID-19, face masks, particularly non-N95 masks, are not sure-proof ways to block the transmission of Coronavirus. Even with a face mask, the CDC recommends American still implement protective measures such as social distancing (6-feet or more), hand washing and self-quarantining.
Also, when wearing a face mask, make sure to wash your hands before and after taking it off, avoid touching the front of the mask, and wash the mask (if reusable) and dry completely before using again.
So what should you look for when purchasing face masks? According to the CDC, face masks should:
Fit tightly but comfortably against both sides of the face
Be secured with ties or ear loops
Include multiple layers of fabric that block dust particles
Allows you to breathe freely
Can be washed and machine dried without damaging or changing the shape
Bonus points if the masks contains a filter or allows room for a filter to be inserted
So, let’s stop the spread of COVID-19 and support small businesses in the process. Here’s a round-up a few of our favorite, black and Latina owned face mask creators.
Sheree Alexis
This Columbus, Ohio designer and mom of three offers adult and toddler masks in a variety of prints.
Besida
These handmade face masks are made from Ankara fabrics in bold, vibrant prints that salute the Motherland.
Johana Hernandez
This Latina, Los Angeles-based fashion designer is the founder of the haute couture brand, GLAUDI. In addition to selling face masks, Hernandez is also donating masks to areas hospitals and medical workers.
Wrapped by Nellz
Get these mask and wrap sets complete with a built-in filter. Get yours quick as these are known to sell fast.
Selva Negra
This Latina-owned fashion brand offers 100 percent cotton masks with 10 percent of the proceeds benefitting the 1736 Family Crisis Center in Los Angeles.
CAAB Customs
If wittty, bold statements are your thing, these “culturally ratchet” cotton masks are for you.
House of Nambili
For the bold, Brooklyn-based House of Nambili offers handmade masks in a variety of African prints. Their masks are unisex, machine-washable and can withstand ironing.
Oxymoron Fashion House
Philly-based fashion designer Monica Monique used her sewing skills to create designer masks complete with rhinestone embellishments and all the style you could imagine.
