Overview
The face mask is about to enjoy a peak in popularity, after the NSW Government strongly suggested Sydeysiders start wearing face coverings, at a press conference over the weekend. Premier Gladys Berejiklian has outlined four key situations where masks should be worn: if you're in an enclosed space and can't social distance, such as at a supermarket or on public transport; if you're working a customer-facing job, such as hospitality or retail; if you're attending a place of worship; and if you're in an area where there is high levels of community transmission.
At this stage, masks aren't compulsory for NSW, but as the state continues to record daily new case numbers in the double digits, many locals are stocking up on those face coverings. And if you want to jump on board, you'll find plenty of locally made options to choose from.
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.
Alternatively, crafty folk Australia-wide are whipping up a variety of reusable cloth masks, available either to purchase in-store, or to buy online and have sent straight to your door. Keep in mind, however, that some may be experiencing slower manufacturing and delivery times thanks to the rush in demand, but most are restocking regularly. Here are a few local options to check out if you're masking up:
Masks from Ford Millinery
THE ECO MASK
This Sydney company is slinging a huge 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, and new gear landing weekly. Each mask is handmade with two layers of cotton and a top wire to fit to your nose.
The Eco Mask's masks are available online for $15
PAPINELLE
You'll likely know this Paddington-based label for its luxurious sleepwear designs, but in keeping with the times, it's now having a crack at some swanky face coverings, too. Papinelle has got you protected in style, with washable masks made from silk. They've got adjustable elastic straps, interior filter pockets and even wire bridges to fit your nose. Due to demand, stock is being sent out in batches.
Papinelle's masks are available online for $39.95
FORD MILLINERY
Chantelle Ford's Sydney-based millinery business has turned its talents to stylish face coverings, even launching new initiative Masks 4 Mates. Shop this fab range of reversible printed fabric masks and five percent of each sale will go straight to charity. The designs are made from washable, pleated cotton and come in three different sizes.
Ford Millinery's masks are available online for $29.95
LOVE, LAUGH AND LIGHT COLLECTIVE
If you're after some eye-catching designs to wrap your face in, take a squiz at the latest range of masks from Love, Laugh and Light Collective. The medical supply company is stitching brightly hued face masks to order, available in both plain colours and snappy prints. The multi-layer designs are made by hand, each with a mouldable nose guard to ensure minimal facial squishing.
Love, Laugh and Light Collective's masks are available online for $25.50–28.50 (single), or $46.55 (two-pack)
THE SOCIAL OUTFIT
This fashion-focused social enterprise is not only making face masks, but its new initiative B1-G1 will match each mask purchase by donating another to someone in need. The designs are double-layered, with elastic ear ties and wire nose bridging. And there are heaps of fun prints to choose from. The B1-G1 online store is currently waiting on stock, but in the meantime you can find a selection of masks at The Social Outfit's Newtown HQ.
The Social Outfit's masks are available online and in-store for $27
BREATHE EASY
Newcastle-based company Breathe Easy has your back with its collection of plain cotton washable face masks. Each multi-layer mask features adjustable ear straps and a filter for extra protection. You'll even score four new filter inserts included with any item purchased.
Breathe Easy's masks are available online for $39.95
BUNDARRA
This Australian clothing manufacturer makes stylish threads featuring artworks by First Nations artists and its extensive line of face masks is no different. Colourful prints from a range of contemporary artists have been transformed into face coverings, each made from three fabric layers and featuring a removable filter. New stock is arriving daily. The company also donates a percentage of all sales to non-profit The MaraWay.
Bundarra's masks are available online for $24.95
SCOUT THE LABEL
A local designer fashion brand with a conscience, Scout The Label has released a nifty new collection of face masks crafted in various natural fabrics. Each of the four-layer coverings come with an internal filter compartment and adjustable ear elastics to ensure comfy noggins. There are three sizes available, currently with five neutral hues to choose from.
Scout The Label's masks are available online for $25–30
A mask from KITX
KITX
Ethical fashion label KitX has expanded its collection to include a range of reusable face masks made from fabric remnants. There are single-layer and triple-layer varieties on offer, all pleated for comfort and with elastic loops to secure at the ears. Go for a stylish print, or a plain hued version, like the blue hemp number currently in stock.
KitX's masks are available in-store and online for $25-35
WHITE RABBIT GALLERY
Its main focus has always been celebrating contemporary Chinese art, but the renowned White Rabbit Gallery is now dabbling in the face mask biz as well. The talented Rondah McKellar has been busy crafting a variety of colourful kids and adults masks for sale in the gallery's shop. They're super soft, reversible and feature three layers of fabric in a range of different prints. The larger sizes are currently sold out, but more are set to arrive in the coming days.
White Rabbit Gallery's masks are available in-store from $20 (once restocked).
To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in NSW, head to the NSW Health website.
Top images: Ford Millinery