Eager to emerge from your quarantine cocoon and make the most of summer here in Brooklyn? Let’s remember that while infection rates are improving dramatically we’re all still at risk, in particular our neighbors with certain pre-existing medical conditions. Maintaining social distance and wearing masks are two things that all of us can do to help, and we figure if we’re able to support local businesses in the process, even better!
Here are a few NYC-based companies selling masks.
Photo courtesy of House of Nambili
Made from 100% cotton, these colorful African print masks from Brooklyn’s House of Nambili are washable and reversible. Masks feature inner pockets to hold replaceable N95 filters and are also available in kid sizes. Bonus: Free shipping.
Christine Alcalay started making masks to donate to health professionals across the US but each week they add a limited amount to offset costs of material, labor and shipping of their donations. Choose from floral, jungle, solid, plaid and other patterns. Sized in small, medium and large.
Our neighbors down the street here on 7th Avenue in Park Slope, Kiwi has fashionable masks in patterns ranging from jungle to tropical, tie dye to plain, abstract and so many more.
KES offers a variety of masks in classic colors and patterns—solid, plaid and tie-dye—but diverse styles and fabrics. And for each mask purchased, they donate one to a healthcare professional.
Photo by Peralta Project
Stand out with a statement mask from artist M. Tony Peralta’s collection which merges New York, hip-hop and Latinx culture. Perfect for creatives and art lovers.
This Brooklyn lifestyle brand offers triple-layered adults or kids statement masks that read Does It Even Matter, a phrase that the creators use to remind us all to seize the day. Every sale helps them purchase a disposable mask to be donated to the city’s frontline workforce.
These masks are ideal for those who want something simple and basic, for a more classic look. Select from different color palettes such as earth colors, bright, marine and pastel. Masks come in kids and adult sizes. They match all mask pack purchases with donations to relief efforts.
Photo by Yarn&Whiskey
Another Brooklyn shop, Yarn&Whiskey creates masks in colorful, unique patterns and are sized in adult, kids and large. There’s even a kids surprise mask option for a bit of a thrill.
They took all the fabric for their Spring/Summer line and recut it into double-layer masks with filter pockets. And for every mask Naomi Naomi sells, they make and donate another to a healthcare worker via Masks4Medicine.
Brooklyn shoe company Atoms pivoted their production to include solid masks made from a polyester blend outer layer and copper-lined ionized quartz yarn inner layer. They too donate a mask with each sale, and they sell masks at cost without making a profit. Choose from three sizes.
This company trains and supports women from low-income and immigrant communities to launch fashion careers and businesses. They’re selling reversible masks featuring different designs.
Photo by Hertling
Established in 1925 to make fine-tailored apparel, in 1997 Hertling began to be known for their high-quality trousers. Today, they’re also making dapper pleated, contoured and kids face masks.
Their 100% cotton, double-layer masks are all upcycled from past custom and collection pieces. Choose from plaid, polka dot and plenty of other patterns.
You may have heard of Brooklyn-based designer Zam Barrett, but you may not know he started making fashionable, functional masks with filters through 5M Mask Making Militia (5MMasks). On April 29 for National Denim Day, the company donated 200 masks to Brownsville non-profit CAMBA’s Magnolia House Women’s Shelter, and they make regular donations to various individuals and institutions in the community.
Can’t find a face mask you like? Get a custom one at Print House NYC.