The Caribbean Mask Makers Turning Heads Amid COVID-19
None of us could have predicted that the day would come when a mask would be a regular part of our outfits. In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, people opted for disposable masks, dust masks and anything they felt would help protect them. Then designers began turning their attention to simple cloth masks.
And in seemingly no time at all, masks became a way to show off your individuality. If you have to cover half your face on the few occasions you’re allowed to go outside, why not do in style? Whether you like African-inspired prints, sequins or crochet, there is someone out there who can make a mask for you. And as I noted in a previous post, this is a great way to support local designers who are going through a tough time.
With all that being said, here are some of the Caribbean designers who are taking the mask game to the next level.
byASD (Jamaica)
Ayanna Dixon’s distinctive illustrations have gone on several types of merchandise including clothing, calendars and mugs. Now you can get them on hand-painted masks as well.
Vintaj Life (Barbados)
How cute is this mask from Vintaj Life? The pink and white stripes and flowers make it perfect for a girly girl.
The Tamia Carey Collection (Jamaica)
Since masks are seemingly going to be a part of our lives for a while, you may need some for dressier occasions or to dress up a simple outfit. These scarf masks from The Tamia Carey Collection will definitely elevate your look.
Welchwear Fashion (Barbados)
Speaking of dressier options, if sequins are your thing or you’re going to a physically-distanced wedding with 20 people, these mesh-embellished cotton masks from Welchwear Fashions could do the trick.
CandiFab (Barbados)
Want something a little extra? How about this patchwork mask with detachable butterflies from CandiFab?
WYLD FLWR (Trinidad & Tobago)
Looking for another sequinned option? Want a carnival-inspired look since you’re not having a mas experience this year? Here’s one of the mask offerings from WYLD FLWR, the brand that’s a collab between Anya Ayoung-Chee and Sari Teitelbaum.
Panache Island Wear (Barbados)
Want your mask personalised with your initials? Panache Island Wear teamed up Henna by Sasha Mehter to create these bespoke designs.
Pauline Bellamy (Barbados)
There is nothing like a Pauline Bellamy design? Whether it’s a gown or a mask, she’ll put a unique spin on it.
In addition to distinctive masks, there are some designers creating the cutest matching sets. Are you ready to begin coordinating your outfit around your masks?
Rissa’s Eclectik Couture (St. Lucia)
Sunshine (Barbados)
And to wrap things up for now …
Rhaj Paul (Barbados)
Rhaj Paul is a tailor and he has brought that talent to his masks. These are impeccably tailored so if you like precision, you’ll probably like these.
I’d love to add to this list and include designers from more islands so if you or someone you know is doing something special with their masks, drop a comment below or reach out to me on Instagram or Facebook.
