Face masks have in the past months become a required part of an outdoor ensemble, so much so that it is against the law to wander around in public areas without one covering your face. It’s unquestionably an important tool to weather the COVID-19 storm gripping the world right now. Most of the ones seen on the street are of the surgical variety, with defensive capabilities that match their clinical look.
There are however creators out there who make reusable, cloth-based masks in an effort to be environmentally conscious while offering the wearer a dash of style, sporting off-the-rack or customised designs. After all, since it’s mandatory and is on a highly visible spot, why not look good while keeping the virus at bay, right? Taking this idea to another level is a team of designers from ESMOD Kuala Lumpur, who have come up with highly fashionable masks that even come with their own matching outfits!
These 19 alumni of ESMOD KL, a renowned design school under The One Academy, have created face masks that are one-off fashion statements, with 22 thematic ensembles as fruits their labour. ESMOD KL’s Fashion Design Leader Eric Choong, a reputable fashioner in his own right, oversaw the work. The individual designers conceptualised and brought their creations to life according to a chosen theme.
These themes include nature, human life, the Edwardian era, mythical creatures and other intriguing inspirations, making for some truly eye-catching designs. To experience exactly how riveting they are, it’s best to see them in the flesh.
Eric shared his thoughts on the collection, saying, “Face masks are now an essential piece in everyone’s wardrobe and we wanted to inspire the public to choose masks that are not designed for single use, but rather to go for comfortable, washable and reusable options as these are definitely sustainable alternatives that is good for us and the environment.”
ESMOD graduate Liren meanwhile expressed her notion that fashionable masks could be a trend. “I believe that more and more people will opt for fashionable face masks, especially if they are marketed well. However, it is important that they choose ones made of the right fabric, material and filtration because no matter what, safety always comes first.”
A collaborative effort by ESMOD KL and Avenue K, the Masks Meet Fashion Exhibition is dedicated to all front-liners and their unrelenting fight against COVID-19, and for all intents and purposes, is a bona fide showcase of what local fashion designers can do. Chart a course to Avenue K by 1 September 2020 to feast your eyes on the unique designs. You can even chat with some of the designers, and if a certain look has hooked your interest, you may even be able to add it to your own wardrobe!
Masks Meet Fashion Exhibition
WHERE Atrium, Avenue K Shopping Mall, Kuala Lumpur
WHEN 10am-10pm (1 Aug-1 Sept)
ADMISSION Free
TEL 03 7875 5510 (ESMOD KL)
03 2168 7888 (Avenue K)
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