17 Jun 2020

Wearing of face masks have now entered the fashion scene.

Besides being an essential accessory to wear in order to reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19, masks have also become a way for people to exhibit their fashion sense, interests and in some cases a sense of humour.

Local fashion designer, Thabiso Dibeela agreed that face masks were now envisioned to be an essential element of the modern wardrobe adding that,  they come in versatile patterns and designs, which one can choose from depending on the reason for wearing a mask.

She said everyone from school-going children, academics and professionals have embraced the wearing of masks to protect themselves from the pandemic.

She said in doing so, people have also been alive to the fact that wearing a  mask does not mean one cannot express a little bit of their personality and uniqueness.

“Face masks will now be part of everyday wear and something new to adapt to,” she said.

Dibeela indicated that although now a new fashion trend, masks would also be used as preventative measures against illnesses caused by pollen as well as transmission of flu and cough infections.

Dibeela, whose clientele ranges from corporate, government institutions, groups and individuals, said she strictly uses cotton for her masks as cotton was a natural fibre, which provides easy respiratory; unlike a synthetically made mask, which has chemicals that could be harmful to the users

The mandatory use of face masks and their high demand has also provided an opportunity for some to earn quick cash.

Operating from Old Naledi, Botlhe Ngwaga, who runs Zola Mdeni, also offers handcrafted masks that are creative pieces of self-expression.

Ngwaga said customers were responding well to their products noting that with good profits, they make from masks sale, they also donated 20 masks to the social welfare relief programme in their area.

Another SMME benefiting from the mask industry is Makma Creations, a clothing business doing wedding attires, cooperative wear, graduation gowns as well as protective clothing.

The owner, Masego Kubyadi said her business had been getting a lot of orders both individually and corporate companies.

As the world grapples with this new reality, the creative sector is tasked with designing and producing not only clothes but face masks in large quantities as they have to cater for everyone in the market. ENDS