The must-have accessory for this summer. Literally.

As of 24th July, the law requires that face masks must be worn in enclosed public spaces (excluding bars and restaurants) and on public transport. The newest addition to our accessory collection is far from what we would have expected but, with face masks becoming the new normal, we might as well embrace it.

Partnering with Bags of Ethics, a label which promotes the use of sustainable fabrics, the British Fashion Council has launched the ‘Great British Designer Face Covering’ campaign. With help from six of the UK’s top designers, including Mulberry and Julien Macdonald, the campaign provides fashionable face coverings that are good for you, your wardrobe and those around you.

Chief Executive of the BFC, Caroline Rush said that through the manufacturing of face masks, the fashion industry can be a “unifying force”. Utilising the sale of masks, fashion houses can help those in need with the campaign aiming to raise a huge £1 million for NHS Charities Together COVID 19 Urgent Appeal, BFC foundation Fashion Fund and The Wings of hope children’s charity.

The stylish masks come in an assortment of designs with prices starting from £10. Each mask is made from 100% organic cotton sateen and free from any single-use plastics ensuring that they can be reused and are environmentally friendly. This also enables vital PPE supplies to remain reserved for the NHS and those who desperately need them. To ensure comfort, adjustable ear straps and a nose-strip help to create a snug fit around the nose and mouth without causing friction or fogging up your glasses.

If those designs aren’t quite your style, here are some other fashionable face coverings you can buy whilst also supporting charities.

Reusable Printed Fabric Face Coverings – Oliver Bonas, £16

Available in packs of three, these reusable Oliver Bonas masks are prefect for mixing and matching. The variety of prints, including animal and gingham, come in a monochromatic colour scheme meaning they are wearable with any outfit. In the back there is a small pocket where you can place your own reusable filters, strengthening the effectiveness of the mask. With every sale, £4 of the proceeds is donated to UK Youth, “a leading national charity that provides access to appropriate, high-quality services for young people in every community.”

Rainbow Mask – Kurt Geiger, £15

Bursting with colour, this rainbow mask by Kurt Geiger London is the perfect choice for someone who enjoys making a statement. Despite being fairly expensive for a single mask, it’s high quality certainly justifies the price. Made with a heavy weight cotton outer and a soft jersey lining, the mask is both comfortable and durable. The in-built wiring across the nose ensures a snug fit for increased safety as well as a pocket for filters. Aiding this, the outer cotton has been certified as a grade 3 fabric by NHS guidance meaning that it is certified against COVID-19, providing at least 70% retention of bacteria. In keeping with the bold rainbow design, 100% of the profits will go towards UK Black Pride; a charity dedicated to “celebrating love in all its guises.”

3 Pack Mystery Mix – Boden, £20

With a vast array of designs available, it can be hard when deciding what ones to choose but with Boden, you won’t have this issue. After purchasing the set of three masks, you won’t know what designs or colours you have until they arrive. Each mask is made from the off-cuts of Boden’s fabric rolls meaning that it is a sustainable choice but you can remain confident that they will still be stylish. The soft, jersey fabric and internal wire ensures a comfortable fit that can be reused and reshaped. If you’re wanting a different mask for each day of the week, Boden also offers packs of seven available for £40. Proceeds from these sales will be donated to Helpforce which is “a big-hearted charity that organises initiatives to improve the lives of NHS staff and patients.”

Sanctuary Face Masks, £18 – Anthropologie

The elegant designs and pastel colours of these masks are sophisticated but still fun; very much in keeping with Anthropologie’s aesthetic. Available in sets of three, you’ll be able to add some variety to your collection of face masks but still maintain style. Made from 100% soft, organic cotton and featuring an adjustable metal nose bridge, you won’t have to worry about discomfort. Anthropologie will also be donating all profits to NHS Charities Together.

Floral Face Covering – Needle & Thread, £15

With the quintessential Needle & Thread floral print, these delightful masks are a perfect addition to your summer wardrobe. Horizontal pleats mimic the design of medical grade face coverings which allows for ease of movement and increased comfort. Whether you choose black or white, 50% of your purchase will be used to help aid the mothers2mothers’ COVID-19 emergency appeal. The organisation aims to eliminate childhood AIDS and encourages healthy families but, like many others, their endeavours have been adversely affected by the pandemic.  

By Holly Johnson