Unless you’re exempt, measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 mean that face coverings will be an everyday part of our lives for the foreseeable future. But who said safety has to be boring? Read on for some tips to make them more fun; who knows, you could even say you’re contributing to (*ahem*) the latest fashion trend…
Wear reusable
Plenty of high street retailers now stock reusable face masks in various designs. If you’re tired of constantly having to buy and dispose of those scratchy blue ones, why not make the sustainable choice and invest in some trendier pieces from your favourite brands? You’d not only be doing your bit for other people, but also for the planet.
It’s also worth remembering that as a York student, the university will provide you with two reusable masks.
Get artsy
There are plenty of ways to improve your face mask if you’re feeling particularly creative. Just as you might up-cycle your clothes, you could restyle your face mask to create a look unique to you. The uni’s plain blue coverings are perfect for restyling. You could tie dye it, write your favourite quotes on it, sprinkle it with glitter – whatever floats your boat. If you build up a collection, you could even deck yourself in a different pattern for each day of the week – I like the idea of a “I hate Mondays” mask to warn off friends and housemates…
And if you’re already a keen sewer or up for learning a new skill, why not try your hand at making your own face mask? Find materials at your local craft store or online, and check out this guide to get you started. Face masks are a popular seller on sites like Etsy and Depop, where you could turn a new skill into a business.
Adapt to your social calendar
Having to wear coverings in enclosed spaces doesn’t mean a total end to your social life. Coming in every colour and pattern, there is a face mask for every occasion. Co-ordinating your outfit to match your face mask is very popular at the moment, and certainly makes for a look to stand out from the crowd. 
If you’re going all out, you could personalise a plain face mask to support your favourite society, or even acquire something as fancy as a diamanté-studded mask for more dressed-up evenings.
And who knows, maybe face masks will become the perfect addition to your Halloween outfit this year – whether you’ll be traipsing in full costume dress to Courtyard with your flatmates, or getting on your spooky at home with The Nightmare Before Christmas.
A final note…
Above all, the best reason to wear a mask is that it helps to keep you and others around you safe. Of course, nobody wants to have to wear a mask for longer than is necessary. But while the pandemic continues it’s likely we’ll be wearing them in most indoor spaces for some time, and you might as well get some fun out of it!
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