Face Mask Chains : The Newest It-Accessory
By: Ana Escalante
Before the COVID pandemic locked us all inside, major trends were set to dominate street style fit pics across social media this year: electric blue, chunky jewelry, and glasses chains to name a few.
Take glasses chains for example; the grandma-esque style accessory took some getting used to when it first appeared on starlets last summer. If anyone could pull off a “vintage” look, it was Gigi Hadid. Both functional and fashionable, dressed up or down, beaded or braided–– Sunglasses chains were here to stay.
Suddenly, as the pandemic spread across the world, bikinis and sunglasses chains for lounging in Italy became comfortable tie-dye sweat sets to wear during a lazy weekend. For a moment, fashion lost its funky edge. But when quarantine uniforms transformed from PJs to sundresses again, it begged the question: why can’t face masks be fashionable, too?
With lockdown restrictions being lifted, personal style is back to being celebrated, and masks are now a part of the daily #OOTDs. To honor a semblance of returning to fashionable roots, here are some face masks chains to wear out to the next socially-distant night on the town.
FOR THE MINIMALIST: SECOND WIND
Second Wind, a New-York based Latinx-owned company is a fan-favorite of congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY). Neutral chic masks with gold chains built-in are perfect to add to any outfit for a minimalist, classic touch. Even though the label was founded just a few short months ago, their creations have sold out within hours, and strong public support makes it difficult to snatch one for yourself when everyone is in love with these designs.
FOR THE COLOR LOVER: EAZY THERE TIGER
Childhood beaded accessories, but make it fashion. This colorful mask chain, complete with bright bracelet beads and freshwater pearls, add a bright pop to any outfit. The 90s nostalgia trend isn't going out of style anytime soon, so it’s best to incorporate it as much as possible, CDC friendly, of course.
FOR THE MAXIMALIST: JULES KAE
Clunky, big glasses chains are a trend-staple thanks to Repeller’s Market Editor, Elizabeth Tamkin. For the COVID-safe way to adopt this look, look no further than Jules Kae’s tortoise chain. With gold details and a timeless shell color, this variation is perfectly paired with any outfit.
FOR THE TRENDSETTER: MIKUKUMI
With small, colorful beads and light gold details, these minimalist chains are the perfect way to layer a small touch of excitement over your face mask while in your best street-style fits. Small details mean the chains aren’t the star of the outfit, but it’s just as equally as important to your mask-to-toe look.
FOR THE JACKIE-O: ÉLIOU
Clutch your pearls, literally. This timeless pearl chain from Éliou, adjustable to both sunglasses and mask loops, would make your grandmother proud. Dress it down with a white button-down and jeans or wear the chain with your best pearl earrings to a socially-distanced soireé. Inspired by the chic style of Jackie-O and Grace Kelly, you can’t go wrong with this classic look.