Back-to-school is looking a lot different this year…in more ways than one! In the past, we’ve been gearing up for a back-to-school fashion show for 9News and this year, we’re all about the masks. Chalk that up for things we never thought we’d be saying a year ago.
Our clothes shopping has been pretty minimal but what we have been doing is sampling lots of different masks because that is where our kids will be making their fashion statements this year…so why not make them comfortable. We have included a mix of well-known companies along with some homegrown artisans for your mask-wearing this school year.
Happy back-to-school!
Knotty Tie
Wearing a mask is a selfless act and we love that Knotty Tie has taken that even further. This mission-driven company provides meaningful employment to highly-skilled refugees in Denver and they have sourced their soft, high-quality face mask fabric from California (which carries a lower carbon footprint than imported fabrics). They offer 3 styles of face mask, available in Adult Standard (5″x8″ and Adult Small (4.5×7″). Knotty Tie has a large selection of patterns and use around-the-head elastics for a more comfortable fit for long wear periods. They can also accommodate requests for custom orders or behind-the-ear masks thanks to their in-house manufacturing team. $20. KnottyTie.com
Head Sweats
I first learned about Head Sweats several months ago from my awesome personal trainer who was wearing one of their ultra-cool visors with Eventure™ Fabric Technology that keeps your head cool and dry. Then, I was even more fully converted when I caught wind of their reversible moisture-wicking, breathable face masks. They’re fantastic for school and for working out. And, they have full sublimation, 100% polyester, dual face Microtech fabric, breathable and water repellent. $13. HeadSweats.com
Society of Threads
Macy’s is proud to partner with Society of Threads to donate 20,000 masks & support Clothes4Souls mission during this unprecedented time. Their awesome masks are sold in a variety of packs and sizes for adults (3.75″H x 7.25″W) and kids (2.75″H x 5.75″W ideal for ages 2 to 7), and made from a lightweight and breathable cotton. There is an inner pocket for filters, a nose bridge wire to contour on your face and adjustable straps to modify the fit. A 6-pack is $25 and can be ordered online or free curbside pickup. Macys.com
Mama Llama Masks
Mama Llama Masks started when Denverite Ali Medina’s mom set out to sew masks for her friends who are nurses and doctors. They started getting lots of requests for masks from family and friends so they launched the website. As people purchase their masks, it allows them to use the funds to turn around and produce more masks that they can donate to frontline workers and vulnerable populations. They currently have 180 patterns to choose from in adult and kid sizes. They have great coverage–the fabric reaches all the way under the chin in 2 layers of polycotton material which feels a bit more secure than some flimsy cotton masks. $15. mamallamamasks.square.site
Athleta Made to Move Masks
The activewear brand has launched a new batch of reusable masks you can actual work out in. The Made to Move Polyester/Spandex masks contain a filter pocket, adjustable ear loops, and a flexible nose bridge. Plus, they come with a head strap that can attach to the ear loop — this can be placed on the nape of your neck, further up your head, or wrapped around a ponytail to take the pressure off the back of your ears. Available in adult and kid sizes. A 3-pack is $25. Athleta.com
Winter Session
At Winter Session, their motto is Buy One, Give One. For every mask purchased, another will be donated to someone in need. Their small team of artisans utilizes traditional craft techniques like hand stitching and beveling and newer technologies like laser cutting and industrial machine sewing to produce their product range in their Denver storefront workshop. Their reusable fabric face mask is made from two layers of densely woven cotton fabric with two disposable filters made from 80% polyester / 20% nylon non-woven textile. The pleated mask style wraps snugly around the nose and mouth with a moldable aluminum nose piece and secures with fabric ties. Available in adult and child sizes. $16. Winter-Session.com
Angela R. Garcia
Ola Cre Skin Care Masks
This local, organic skincare company is making custom, washable masks with a hepa filter on the inside that can be removed. Masks come in toddler, kid/teen & adult male/female sizes for a more custom fit and designs change regularly. Masks are $14. facebook.com/olacreskin
Not all superheroes wear masks but our kids sure will be rocking them!
Author: Amber Johnson
Amber is the founder and editor of Mile High Mamas, travel writer and former columnist for The Denver Post. She is a passionate community builder and loves the outdoors. She has two awesome teens and is happily married to a man obsessed with growing The Great Pumpkin.
