Overview
UPDATE: JULY 30, 2020 — From 11.59pm on Sunday, August 2, face masks will be mandatory for all of Victoria. Find out more here.
In Melbourne, the humble face mask has quickly become the number-one accessory, after the Victorian Government announced the protective coverings will soon be compulsory for residents of metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire. At a press conference on Sunday, July 19, Premier Daniel Andrews advised that everyone over the age of 12 in the Stage 3 lockdown zones now must wear a face mask whenever they leave home for one of the four allowed reasons: for work or school (if you can't do this from home), for care or care giving, for daily exercise, or for food and other essentials. With the state's daily number of new COVID-19 cases continuing to rise — including 275 new cases reported on Monday, July 20 — it's hoped that the new measures will help minimise community transmission and avoid the need for further restrictions.
The new face mask rules come into effect from 11.59pm from Wednesday, July 22, with a potential $200 fine handed out to anyone who doesn't comply. And, while Premier Andrews has okayed the use of scarves, bandanas and other fabric pieces as alternatives to actual face masks, people across the city are scrambling to stock up on both disposable and reusable options.
Right now, you can pick up affordable, one-use face masks from major retailers like Officeworks, Chemist Warehouse, Kmart and Bunnings. Some are offering delivery and click-and-collect options, though you'll need to check individual stores to see what's available and who's got stock.
Meanwhile, crafty folk Australia-wide are whipping up a variety of reusable cloth masks that you can buy online. Some may be experiencing slower manufacturing and delivery times thanks to the rush in demand, but most are restocking regularly. If you want to level-up your face mask game, here are a few local options to check out.
Heroes Wear Masks
HEROES WEAR MASKS
An Aussie fabric signage manufacturer launched a side-hustle crafting reusable face masks in a range of funky prints — and the result is Heroes Wear Masks. All designed, printed and sewn at the brand's Carrum Downs HQ, the one-size-fits-all coverings come with adjustable tie fasteners. They're also especially affordable, starting from $30 for a pack of four.
Heroes Wear Masks' four-packs are available for $30–45.
YARLI CREATIVE
Madison Connors, the artist behind Yarli Creative, has repurposed some of her contemporary Aboriginal art designs into a series of custom-printed, triple-layer, breathable face masks. There are four different prints to choose from, available in the one adult size. And 40 percent of pre-sale profits go to Indigenous community organisation Elizabeth Morgan House.
Yarli Creative's masks are available for $35.
SISTERWORKS
Melbourne-based, female-focused social enterprise SisterWorks has created a trio of reusable fabric face mask options, including a Department of Health and Human Services-compliant version made with three different layers — cotton, poly-cotton and a water-repellent outer. You'll also find a range of muslin-lined masks, in various colours and patterns.
SisterWorks' masks are available for $18–25.
CULTURE KINGS
Yep, even famed online streetwear retailer Culture Kings has some skin in the face mask game. The online store is slinging a hefty lineup of designs, from logo-adorned statement pieces to your standard disposable versions. There are plenty of sizes across the range, with some masks even available for in-store pick-up.
Culture Kings' masks are available for $19.95–59.95.
By Kinsman masks
BY KINSMAN
Melbourne couture fashion label By Kinsman has expanded its collection to include a series of triple-layered, all-cotton face masks, as handmade to order. The washable coverings come in either a black or neutral colour, and are available in packs of four for adults and two-packs for kids. Orders will reopen from 4pm on Wednesday, July 22.
By Kinsman's masks are available in $30 two-packs for kids and $60 four-packs for adults.
THE ECO MASK
This Aussie company is slinging an assortment of face masks through its online store, starting from just $15 a pop. You'll find options here for both kids and adults, with designs ranging from bold block colours to lively prints. They're made with two layers of cotton and feature a wire nose bridge for minimal face squishing.
The Eco Mask's masks are available from $15.
THE SOCIAL STUDIO
The Social Studio's fashion retail arm has started making reusable cloth face masks featuring three breathable layers and adjustable elastic ties. They come in a range of reversible designs, with both small and large sizes available. Currently, the online store is being restocked at about 9am each morning.
The Social Studio's masks are available for $11–12.
For more information about wearing face masks, and the Victorian Government's advice for metro Melbourne and Mitchell Shire residents, head to the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services website.
Top images: designs by Heroes Wear Masks