Coronavirus couture: the rise of the designer face mask

Following ECQ regulations, some fashionistas are opting to have a hint of couture in their face masks.

LUXE PRINTS: face masks by Jhay Layson. (PHOTO: J. Layson)

After health authorities in the Philippines mandated that all its citizens wear facial coverings when going outside, allowing even washable cotton face masks, a new market opened up: the designer face mask. 

Corona-related demand has even enabled some fashion designers to reopen their shops, providing desperately needed PPEs and, for some, self-expression amidst the chaos.

 

Of late, providing an alternative to the hospital-grade single-use masks (which are often not available in stores), the ones sold by independent Filipino designers have playful styles fit for a public health crisis and couture looks.

JHAY LAYSON

Jhay Layson, fast-rising international Filipino designer, has been concerned about the spread of coronavirus, but it hasn’t stopped him from exercising his love of kitsch.

“The prints I use on my masks are quite flamboyant and the fabrics are luxurious,” said Jhay, whose international fashion shows are on hold due to the pandemic. 

Designer Jhay Layson in Los Angeles, after a successful fashion show in North Hollywood last year. (PHOTO: J. Layson)
 

“Because we're living in a pandemic and have to wear masks, then we might as well infuse fun and fashion,” Jhay said. Like many indie designers, she has been able to re-open her factory and get her team back to work.

Jhay's "luxe face masks" are available for bulk orders and can be shipped all over the Philippines or overseas via his Facebook page here.

RENEE SALUD

Renee Salud, the iconic Filipino designer, has come up with his own limited-edition handwoven face masks made from indigenous fabrics of the Philippines. 

Established fashion designers like Renee has been affected by the pandemic (just like everyone else in the industry), and his idea of a "fashion pivot" is to stay true to his advocacy.

 

NEO-ETHNIC CHIC: Miss Universe Philippines 2005 Gionna Cabrera and top Filipino makeup artist Jim Ros wear masks by Renee Salud. (PHOTO: G. Cabrera / J. Ros)

And that is: promoting the indigenous weaves and showcasing their multi-faceted application in fashion. This time, indigenous weaves such as the Inuol from Maguindanao (see photo below, left) grace the faces fashion-forward individuals, yet staying true to one's own culture.

To Renee, if every Filipino fashion designer makes use of indigenous weaves in their creations, everyone benefits: the designers who are struggling to make money, the weavers, and the civilians who are in need of masks.

Renee Salud at the conclusion of his "Philippine Tapestry" show in New York City, 2017. (PHOTO: Troi Santos)

 

Indeed, this is Renee's lifelong advocacy: highlighting all the major weaves of the archipelago is one effective way to promote the country’s indigenous materials and the age-old artistry of Filipino weaving.

MAK TUMANG

Mak Tumang, the Filipino designer behind Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray’s iconic lava gown, has unveiled face masks that are inspired by the fiery red coronation dress.

Mak announced in his social media accounts that his unique printed lava designs are not just fashionable but also washable, breathable and water repellent.

These Catriona Gray-inspired “lava” masks will make you feel like Miss Universe. (PHOTO: M. Tumang)

Mak's "lava masks" are sold in three sets, depending on the packaging.The Lava set which includes four pieces of masks in a fold cote bag costs P1,500, while the Lava Box packed in Mak Tumang’s signature box is priced at P2,000.

The “Lava Luxe” set, on the other hand, contains one beaded mask in Mak Tukmang’s signature box sold at P25,000.

Mak Tumang with Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray in Atlanta. (PHOTO: M. Tumang)

Mak's "lava" face masks are available for shipping worldwide. Customers can place an order by visiting his online store: www.maktumang.store

-- by Le Mod Lifestyle Team