Designer Lisette Scheers' iconic motifs are featured on Nala's face masks (Photo: Nala Designs)
The scramble for face masks has died down since the beginning of the Controlled Movement Control Order (CMCO) as supply steadies and other DIY options begin to present themselves. Fabric face masks have been a popular alternative as it can be reused when washed, which significantly reduces the number of disposable masks in the bin. They're not only environmentally-friendly, but can also double as a fashion statement since the range of styles and designs of fabric are endless. If you’re looking for fabric face masks to complement your look, here are eight local brands to get you started.
Fern Batik
Made using fabric offcuts from designer Fern Chua’s iconic batik collections, these lovely masks are priced at RM45 each. For a coordinated look, get the At Home Kit for RM245. The kit comes with a batik mask, a matching tote bag and apron as well as natural salts by Kushan. Part of the proceeds from this kit will go to NGO Rumah Kita to support single pregnant mothers.
FERN Flagship Store, upper ground floor, Bangsar Village II, KL. 011 2181 0712. Daily, 10am-8pm.
Cassey Gan
Designer Cassey Gan’s 100% cotton masks with pockets for filter insertion are as pretty as they are practical. The print placement for these made-to-order pieces are unique and no two are the same. Priced at RM59 each; buy three or more to enjoy a 20% discount.
Purchase Cassey Gan's designs here.
Maryam Bayam
Are you an anak Malaysia or do you just love the country and its culture? Wear it loud and proud then with Maryam Bayam’s batik masks. Priced at RM35 each; add RM3 for string ties instead of elastic loops. There are also reversible and customisable options.
Message Maryam Bayam's Facebook page to order.
Nala Designs
Featuring designer Lisette Scheers’ iconic motifs, these masks are perfect to give or receive. Get a set of two for just RM40 or five for RM90. Nala is also one of the very few brands that make masks for kids. Keep your little ones safe with the Kids Edition Pack, which comes in a set of two for RM36 or five for RM80.
Purchase here.
Melinda Looi
After leading a band of fashion designers to produce protective gear for frontliners, Melinda Looi is collaborating with fellow designer Tom Abang Saufi on a face mask collection as a tribute to the rakyat. The Unity Masks feature two design approaches: one dedicated to frontliners and the other showcasing the flags of the Malaysian states. Get them in a set of two for RM29.90 or four for RM55.
Shop the Unity Masks here.
d.d collective
If over-the-head bands cause you unwanted hair creases, go for masks with elastic ear loops, such as these from d.d collective. Their Greta Face Masks also come with an inner pocket that allows for filter inserts. You get two for RM60 plus a matching drawstring pouch to keep used masks separated from your other belongings.
Puchase the Greta Face Masks here.
Behati
The Duchess and TTFGA masks from Behati, which come in a variety of breathable fabrics and bold colours, are fashion statements in themselves. The RM25 masks are lined with a cotton pocket to insert filters for extra protection and fitted with adjustable elastic straps for maximum comfort. Also, RM15 from every mask sale will be donated to Covid-19 charities.
Shop Behati's face masks here.
Supercrew
For something edgier, opt for Supercrew’s reversable face mask in denim for RM79. Have it your way and wear it with their thunderbolt logo facing out or the other way round for a simpler look. The mask is also available in lightweight cotton with different camo prints on both sides. The cotton mask is priced at RM69.
Purchase Supercrew's reversable face masks here.
