A lot of people love to express personalities through fashion, presenting unique styles that make them look and feel good about themselves. It boosts their confidence, displaying their authentic selves or anything they aspire to be.

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Going out and posting “OOTDs” or outfit of the day on social media has become a regular in their daily to-do lists. With stylish clothes coordinated with dangling accessories, flaunting fashion statements was effortless, uncomplicated – until Miss Rona came.

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When COVID-19 spread rapidly in the country early last year, people were put into lockdowns and quarantine, limiting outdoor activities and engagement with one another. It was the start of the non-negotiable ‘new normal’. As part of the protocols, face masks and shields, personal protective equipment (PPE), alcohol and disinfectants are a must whenever and wherever. These serve as protection gears to avoid contracting the unseen enemy. 

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As essential but most advised from the rest, wearing face masks and shields has become an extension of one’s OOTD when in public places. Even before the pandemic, the use of face masks has been the usual for healthcare and sanitary workers. To avoid COVID-19 from spreading further, these preventive measures were extended and subjected to be practiced by everyone. It is probably one of the most noticeable changes brought by the pandemic.

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The demand for facemasks increased drastically in a short period of time, resulting in a shortage of supply. In response to this, many Filipino designers initiated to help and create facemasks that provide safety without losing the fashionable twist. It has been quite challenging for some to incorporate masks and shields on their daily get-ups but worry no more as anyone can still unleash their inner fashionista with the help of the following safety gears:

 

MAISON MÉTISSE (@maison.metisse)

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An eco-friendly, washable, and hand-dyed facemask is available at Maison Métisse. Each mask is handmade from its upcycled natural fabrics brand’s previous production. The mask has a washable filter made with pure cotton flannel and 2-ply filtrations for protection. It also comes with a multi-purpose ear guard to protect the ears from irritation from long hours of use. As stylish as it is, it can also serve as a neck scarf, bag scarf, or a wrist bracelet. It also comes in sizes suitable for kids and adults.

 

THE ARTIST SERIES (@dartistseries)

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Designed by local student artists, their facemasks are very unique in style. The designed prints are inspired with different pinoy-related graphics. Their first collection was named “Manila Series Mask” which shouts culture and style. Every mask is made with a cotton polyester and adjustable ear loop. It can also be a staple piece as it has a black-reversible side that suits any style. 

 

RANDOLF CLOTHING (@randolfclothing)

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If you’re up for cute mask designs, there are a set of candy wrapper-inspired reusable face masks from Randolf Clothing. There are also a lot of fun streetwear and pop culture-inspired products available and designed by RJ Santos. These masks which have water-repellent shells and absorbent linings, come with 2-3 packs per set. It also has room for an additional filter and ear savers designed for a whole day of use. These are the rectangular slings worn behind the head to hold the mask in place without the ears getting hurt.

 

ARMORATI (@armorati____)

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With its innovative design, Armorati’s face shield and face mask is not only comfortable but reusable as well. It has a replaceable filter system so you can be stylish and protected at the same time. It comes in different colors - red, black, pink, green and white- so it can match any outfit. 

 

ISLAND GIRL PH (@islandgirlph)

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Island Girl PH made it possible to be protected both from the sun and the virus with their hand-woven sun visor that has removable heavy-duty acetate face shield-in-one. It has a wide variety of colors and designs to match any outfits and all are available for adults and kids. 

 

ACRYLIC FACE SHIELD PH (@acrylicfaceshieldph)

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A minimalist high-quality face shield design that still looks well styled is offered by Acrylic Face Shield PH. They have a ratchet strap mechanism with a heavy-duty acrylic face shield available in their collection. It can be adjusted to fit the head size of the user without ruining the hair style. They also have a fashionable tinted face shield option for an extra stylish statement. 

 

Jo Rubio Studio (@jorubio_)

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Designer Jo Rubio released a PPE Chic prototype that aims to shield from the virus without sacrificing style.  He designed it to look classy like his other works worn by beauty queens. Some of his clients are celebrities and personalities known for their inclination in the fashion industry.

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