Still need a face mask? Buy one locally from these Miami designers. | Time Out
Some of us have been playing fast and loose with our mask-wearing, but that ends this week. On Wednesday, April 8, City of Miami Mayor Francis Suarez signed an order that requires residents to wear one in public. Specifically, if you’re at an essential business or working at one—from grocery stores and pharmacies to lawyers’ offices—you should be wearing a mask.
With masks in short supply, the problem now is finding one. The good news is that, according to the CDC, DIY face-coverings are now recommended to help keep the virus from spreading. The bad news is that not all of us can sew or are handy enough to make our own. For that, we turn to these Miami designers who are making masks locally. Many are available for same-day pick-up while others can be shipped directly to your home. No excuses not to wear one, people.
Krel Wear
Look like a chic bank robber in Krel Wear’s handknit masks. Designer Karel Levy makes them herself in her Miami studio and offers an array of colors to choose from. The masks can be worn now with a filter for extra protection or repurposed later to rock on a ski trip or any cold-weather destination. Plus, Levy’s donating $10 from every sale to a charity fighting the virus. Order online and get it shipped or opt for local delivery if you live in Miami.
The UpCycle Foundation
The sustainable fashion nonprofit partnered with local seamstresses and designers to produce thousands of masks for communities and first responders affected by the shortage. Each one is made with two layers of 100-percent cotton derived from misprinted t-shirts that were donated to the foundation. Customers can purchase for themselves online as well as buy a mask for UpCycle to donate to first responders and other frontline workers.
Martha of Miami
The queen of tees with funny Cuban dichos and irreverent pins is now churning out clever masks. People can buy her Tápate la Boca polyester masks online for $10 and it will be delivered within a week to 10 days. For every mask sold, Martha is donating one to a healthcare or frontline worker in need. Customers can also make a donation online by opting to purchase and donate both.
Lila Nikole
The local swimwear designer went from making ’kinis to sewing reusable face masks, both for retail and to donate to area hospitals. Each one is a cotton/poly blend with a filtered liner and a wire around the nose to keep you from feeling claustrophobic. Not only are they available in a range of colors and designs, but companies can also buy in bulk and get them customized.Shipping takes about three to five business days but local customers can elect for contactless pick-up at the brand’s North Miami location.
D Brie
Miami-based designer Danielle Pinder halted her swimwear production and is now making face masks for adults and children, which are decked in an adorable pattern for the little ones. The reusable masks are sold in packs of three and feature a two-ply method that allows you to insert your own filter. Customers may also purchase masks for donations to be distributed by D Brie to medical facilities.