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Topical Essays

COVID Safety Looks Good on You!

Feeling confident & staying safe. Tips and tricks to personalize your gear.
Aug 30, 2024

One of the most common reasons I hear that people have stopped masking is just because "nobody else is anymore." Caving to peer pressure not only puts you at risk, but it continues to present those who need to mask as part of an 'out-group.'

Being visibly disabled and requiring any sort of health accommodations will always feel isolating. This is the unfortunate reality that many of us have been living with for longer than 4 years. COVID has disabled so many new people who are not used to being stared at in public.

Let them stare!
Decorating or accessorizing your accessibility gear has always been an act of radical self-love and solidarity. If you're feeling blue about having to hide your face, I've collected some ideas for feeling a little more confident in your mask ~

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Idea #1: Neck Chain

A golden metal chain that attaches to both sides of the mask and hangs around the back of the wearer's head Img credit: Heejico

Idea #2: Front Chain

A metal chain that attaches to the mask's ear loops and drapes across the face, with little lemon charms on it Img credit: Rin

Mask chains can go around your neck or around the front of your mask. If you wear them around your neck, they keep your mask easily accessible. In the front they just look super cool, and you can use charms.


Idea #3: Mask Charms

Cute cat charms that can be hooked onto mask ear loops Img credit: Mayuki Handmade A mask charm of a heart-shaped crystal attached to a surgical mask Img credit: Jewel Vox

These were super popular in Japan, and again are very easy to make. You can attach any light beads to the sides of your mask using jewelry clasps. These look really elegant and are so customizable.


Idea #4: Elastometric Decals

A person wearing a Flo Mask brand elastometric, to which they've stuck pink foil decals of stars Img credit: Cannibalistic Ginger

Stickers and vinyl decals can be used on the hard plastic components of elastometric masks. Mask Squad Cartel makes and sells these online in a wide range of colours.


Idea #4: Fabric Inserts

A grey mannequin wears a Flo Mask, a mesh has been inserted into the front with a cute canine snout painted on it Img credit: @mantacrafts

Thin materials like mesh can be inserted into the front of some elastometric masks (like the Flo Mask pictured here). Note: there is some debate as to whether or not this affects the mask's seal.


Idea #5: 3D Printed Attachments

A Flo Mask, with a 3D printed outline of Sonic the Hedgehog slotted into it Img credit: Steadirob

3D printed pieces can be snapped into some elastometric masks. Steadirob has a lot of patterns.

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These are just some ideas I've come across on the Internet, but ultimately, there are many modifications you can make to both disposable respirators and elastometric ones. Hiding your face in public can feel stifling, but it doesn't leave us without options.