(SPOT.ph) By now, you probably have an assortment of face masks, from chic pastel-colored ones to cool tie-dyed pieces. If you want to inject a bit of local flavor into your quarantine outfits, you can do so by choosing face masks that showcase a bit of Philippine culture. Case in point: washable face masks that feature local weaves handcrafted by artisans all over the country. Not only will you get to wear your Filipino pride loud and proud amid the pandemic, you get to help out local weavers, too.
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Wear your Pinoy pride with these 10 face masks that showcase Philippine culture:
Zero-Waste Face Masks (P70) from Anthill
Anthill creates zero-waste face masks made from fabric scraps. Known for their handcrafted fashion pieces made by indigenous weavers, their masks feature patterns that are distinctly Filipino, adding a touch of local goodness to each one. The masks come with two filters that you can insert in their interior pockets for better filtration. Each mask is priced at P70 and the best part is you’re also supporting the livelihood of Anthill’s weavers and production partners with every purchase.
Available online.
Itneg Community Mask Covers (P350/each) from Piopio Tindahan
Piopio set up Piopio Tindahan where they hold small sales not only to help them keep their business running, but to raise funds for relief packages, which they send out to artisanal communities as well. Their latest sale includes washable face masks by the Itneg community, which has been their partner in creating fashion pieces with delicate embroidery—an element that you can also find in their face masks.
Available online.
Las Islas: Boracay (P429/each, P800/two pieces) from MARCOPilipino
Known for their contemporary take on traditional Filipiniana, MARCOPilipino has also launched a series called Las Islas which features face masks inspired by islands of the Philippines. Their first mask design features a bright neon pattern that’s inspired by Boracay’s striking beauty. The face mask makes use of neoprene fabric and was designed with comfort in mind—the ear loops are adjustable so you can get a snug fit. Part of the proceeds will go to project PAG-ASA—a four-stage initiative that aims to ease the effect of COVID-19 on affected sectors, including seamstresses and farmers. Keep an eye on their Instagram page because they will be releasing a new face mask design inspired by a different island soon!
Available online.
Kalinga Two-Layer Hand-Woven Reusable Face Mask (P145/each) from Filiology
These face masks were initially created by Filiology’s partners in Kalinga to be given away in their community, and now, they are available for sale. The two-ply masks feature weaves that are thicker and tighter than regular masks. For added protection, you can insert tissue or filter before wearing it outside. The weaves feature vibrant striped patterns that’s distinctly Filipino.
Available online.
#MaskofHope Washable Mask (P499/each, P899/two pieces, P1,149/three pieces, P1,500/four pieces) from NIñOFRANCO
NIñOFRANCO’s washable face masks are made out of excess fabric from the brand’s past collections, featuring weaves that are woven by local artisans in Davao. According to the brand, part of the proceeds will be used to purchase tablets for students to aid in their online classes, specifically those whose parents’ income have been affected by the pandemic.
Available online.
T’Boli Face Mask (P299/each) from Kaayo
These face masks were hand-beaded by Kaayo’s partner T’Boli community in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. The face masks are designed with ear loops as well as tie-back straps so you have the option to wear it hooked onto your ears or tied behind your head—or both, for an extra snug fit! For every purchase, they’re giving three cloth masks to frontliners, too.
Available online.
Reversible Face Mask from Nina Inabel (price available upon request)
Nina Inabel's face masks feature traditional Inabel textile hand-woven by the local artisans from the Cordilleras in Northern Luzon. The face masks feature waterproof lining, so droplets won’t be absorbed by the fabric. Plus, each mask has a nose grip which keeps it from sliding down your face—less chances of you accidentally touching your face. By purchasing a face mask, you’re also supporting the livelihood of Nina Inabel’s partner weavers in Ilocos.
Available online.
3-Ply Handwoven Mask (P300/each) from Style Ana
Fashion brand Style Ana is known for their modern contemporary womenswear. They have an Inabel collection featuring pieces made from handwoven textile. Using the excess hand-woven textile from said collection, they created washable face masks that have a distinctly Filipino twist. The masks come in striking colors and patterns, and each come with an interior pocket where you can insert tissues or filters for added protection.
Available online.
Reversible Face Mask (P350/each, P1,500/five) from Masabel Iloco
These face masks from Masabel Iloco come in various prints and colors, and each one is reversible so it’s like getting two masks for the price of one. The textile used for their masks is woven by their partner community in Ilocos Sur, so purchasing a mask means you’re helping out local weavers, too.
Available online.
ULA Handwoven Masks (P200/one, P500/three) from ULA
Local brand ULA is known for their essential oils, artisanal soaps, and shampoo bars, but they’ve recently partnered with weavers from the Ilocos region to create beautiful Inabel textile for their face masks. The washable masks all have filter inserts so you can add filters and tissue for an extra layer of protection.
Available online.
this strange new world.
