We're several months into the state's mandatory mask order and let's face it—we're all going to be wearing masks for the foreseeable future. Not only are face coverings a proven way to help impede the spread of COVID-19, they're also a surprisingly fun fashion statement, especially when you know where to shop. Want something plain to go with your basics? There's a mask for that. Want to show local pride? There's a mask for that. Prefer to make a splash in neon and sequins? You guessed it: There's a mask for that, too.
As you're probably aware by now, the Center for Disease Control advises that individuals use layered cloth face coverings while continuing to maintain at least 6 feet of distance from other people at all times. The organization's website lists several ways to make your own mask, but if you'd rather buy one (and support local businesses), we've assembled a list of places where you can purchase face coverings. Pick something that suits your style and comfort needs, remember to social distance and go out into the world with confidence: You're doing your part to help keep other Chicagoans safe.
View this post on Instagram
Sophia Reyes
Score these sweet flower-printed masks from Chicago-based designer Sophia Reyes, which come in youth, small, large and XL sizes; they're also tripled-layered and outfitted with a wire nosepiece and a pocket insert for a filter. $22 per mask
Sew Anastasia
If you're in the market for something bold and fun, check out the patterns offered by designer Anastasia Chatzka. Her cotton mask collection ranges from a hot pink metallic option to rainbow seersucker fabric. $20 per mask
Essential Elements Chicago
This Avalon Park shop is another excellent option for extra fashion-forward masks, with tons of sequined, studded and otherwise glam face coverings. $13–$23 per mask
Humboldt House
This Humboldt Park boutique is selling colorful face masks from the brands Baggu, Oceanne and Momni in addition to handmade options from store manager and jewelry artist Phoebe Woodall. All are available via online order. $12–$32
Kayra Imports
You can get a mask and matching headwrap at this clothing store specializing in African fabric, which sells the combo in Kente cloth and other vibrant fabric styles. If you prefer, the shop also offers standalone masks. $12 per mask, $22–$25 per headwrap and mask combo
View this post on Instagram
Art Effect
Shop a huge variety of facial coverings from Lincoln Park's Art Effect, including strawberry, gingham and Cubs-themed patterns. $12–$16 per mask
Souldier
Best known for manufacturing guitar straps that have been used by the likes of Wilco, Dave Matthews Band and Aerosmith, Souldier has turned its attention to manufacturing sturdy cotton face masks outfitted with a structural filter. $20 per mask
Stock Mfg
Restaurant, bar and hotel uniform manufacturer Stock Mfg is churning out washable chambray face marks (with discounts available for large orders). Best of all, 20 percent of proceeds benefit the Chicago Hospitality United Fund, providing support of unemployed hourly workers. $15 per mask
Chitown Clothing
Ravenswood-based civic pride T-shirt company Chitown Clothing is offering breathable, two-layer fabric masks with elastic straps in both youth and adult sizes. You can order a plain grey mask or one with a tiny Chicago flag emblazoned on it—and a portion of proceeds from both versions benefit the Greater Chicago Food Depository. $12–$14 per mask
View this post on Instagram
Threadless
Chicago-based T-shirt manufacturer Threadless launched a sprawling line of three-ply polyester face masks sporting fun graphics from local designers like Lauren Asta, Shawnimals and Jay Ryan (The Bird Machine). A portion of the proceeds from each mask sale is being donated to MedShare, with up to a $500,000 maximum donation. $12–$17 per mask
Pride Masks
That #STAYHOME face mask that Mayor Lori Lightfoot has been wearing at public appearances is the work of Pride Masks, an offshoot of Chicago-based Pride Flags that has turned to manufacturing face coverings. These designs are popular, so check back often to see when new stock arrives. $15–$20 per mask
Mr. Pink's
Run by the same folks who operate the Chicago-based rental company Bangtel, Mr. Pinks stocks a selection of triple-layer cotton face masks that feature filter pockets. The masks come in a variety of flashy designs (including a sequined "Paradise Disco" version) and can be ordered with elastic straps or a lanyard. $35–$65
The Tie Bar
Chicago-based menswear brand The Tie Bar sells 100 percent cotton non-medical grade masks made from the same fabric as its shirts. Pick from a vivid pink-and-purple pack or a more basic collection in white, gray, black and tan. $30 for 5 masks
Barrel Maker Press
The local printing company behind those amazing T-shirts that raised money for small local businesses is selling masks in three-packs and in bulk. $24–$25 for 3 masks, $425–$550 for 50 masks
View this post on Instagram
Dearborn Denim
This denim manufacturer is producing masks in three sizes (small, medium and large), allowing folks to buy something that will fit their face. The two-ply knit cotton masks have a pouch to insert a filter for additional protection (coffee filters work great!). $10 per mask
Hart Schaffner Marx
This Chicago menswear factory was able to bring back nearly 50 furloughed workers to help sew three-ply cotton masks, which can be purchased for personal use or donated to local organizations. $30 for 4 masks
Chicago Midwestmade
Pilsen apparel company Chicago Midwestmade makes stylish masks adorned with the Chicago flag, roses and other designs. $25–$27 per mask
View this post on Instagram
FELLA
This local candle company is taking preorders for "social distancing reusable face masks," which feature a metal nose clip and the ability to insert a filter into the bottom of the mask (though you'll have to provide your own filters). $28 per mask
BBJ Linen
If you need a bulk order of face masks, Chicago-based event decoration company BBJ Linen is making double layered fabric masks that are backed with "antimicrobial, fluid repellant medical grade fabric." Just fill out the form on the BBJ Linen website to get a pricing quote. Contact for quote
Mr. Rogers Does
If you simply must look fashionable when you wear a mask, check out these high-end hand-sewn masks from the folks behind local streetwear brand Jugrnaut. $40–$60 per mask
Most popular on Time Out
- Lakeshore Drive-In brings live music to a parking lot near Adler Planetarium
- 6 takeaways from our first ride on a Divvy e-bike
- These 15 Chicago streets are open for outdoor dining
- These 5 Chicago lakefront restaurants reopen this week
- Local artists collaborated on this Black Lives Matter street mural in Uptown