Still trying to mix masks and fashion? Samo has you covered
By Sophie Salem, Staff Writer
From the commencement of COVID-19 back in March, lives across the world have been significantly altered. Though these are unpredictable times, certain changes have become the norm. Although the introduction of masks was a shock to the world, at this point, their presence is exceedingly common. People own sparkly masks, stylish masks, plain masks and even dinosaur masks. They have become such an integral part of our lives that the world now makes an effort to match their masks with the rest of their outfit. Further, reusable masks have shown to become very popular because they are more environmentally sustainable than their single-use competitors. Here are a few of Samo’s favorite reusable mask brands for everyday use and fashion.
Famously known for their phone cases, the brand Casetify has created a line of reusable face masks which have shown to be a hit amongst high school students. When you buy a mask from Casetify, you're also supporting the donation of a mask to a health worker in need. Casetify has donated 35,000 masks and continues to donate to health professionals regularly. Samantha Posell (’24) expressed that reusable masks are her number one priority.
“I like the brand Casetify a lot. I try to use reusable masks as much as I can because I have seen tons of pictures of masks faring in our oceans and getting caught on animals,” Posell said.
Ranna Gill, an online women’s clothing brand, has also decided to expand their company by manufacturing and selling reusable masks. This brand has various styles of masks and customers are sure to find one that works for them. The masks come in different sizes and are made of 100 percent breathable cotton fabric, ensuring the satisfaction of their customers.
“I wear [Ranna Gill] because they are cotton and they don’t irritate my skin,” Kylie Riggs (’23) said.
Ranna Gill is becoming a well known brand for both clothing and masks and has gained a social media following of over 30,000 followers. Not to mention, their masks are completely reusable and environmentally friendly.
During the major spike of the pandemic, masks options were slim, so, many have come up with the alternative of making their own. David Gutierrez (’22) has been working continuously throughout quarantine to make his own reusable masks for himself and his family.
“I do not believe those single use masks are good for the environment. Though we need masks, people are finding them out in the ocean and to stop this I am doing my part by giving away reusable masks to help the environment and keep people safe,” Gutierrez said.
Gutierrez has donated over 100 masks to Samo and Mckinley Elementary School. Wearing a face mask reduces one’s risk of contracting COVID-19 by nearly 65 percent, so evidently, Gutierrez, and mask-wearers alike, are helping to control the spread of the virus.
Featured art by Jorge Ontiveros, Staff Writer