My Face Mask Vintage Story

Vintage and Art

I originally was going to take this time to complete an art-related web project I had been working on, but just like everyone else’s life, Covid happened and I had to put my plans on hold.

At first, I was just sewing face masks for family, friends, and myself with vintage fabrics I had at home. This was mainly because I was having trouble finding cute and FASHIONABLE face masks that were comfortable enough to wear all-day, and also well-made—in the sense that they weren’t going to fall about after I washed them a few times.

Soon after, I started experimenting with different printing techniques, drawing inspiration from my favorite artists—Andy Warhol in particular has been a major influence on my designs.   

I realized that creating face masks I WANTED TO WEAR from things I love was kind of the best therapy, and suddenly I was being asked to sell them.

How are Face Mask Vintage Face Masks Different?

The face masks featured on this site have been designed, cut, and sewn by yours truly, and due to the vintage nature and handmade prints of the fabrics, there are limited quantities of each one.

Since they are made from upcycled materials (my own vintage clothes in some instances!) they are more carbon-footprint-friendly than if mass-produced.

What are the Benefits of Face Mask Vintage Face Masks?

*You’ll notice right away THESE REUSABLE FACE MASKS ARE VERY COMFORTABLE compared to other styles currently being sold.

*They are CONSTRUCTED FROM 3 LAYERS OF FABRIC, and include a non-woven, built-in Polypropylene filter to help wick away moisture.

Built-In Polypropylene Filter of FMV Face Masks

*The curvature of the mask allows you to breathe easily through the nose and mouth, which makes it SUITABLE FOR ALL-DAY WEAR.

*As the pipe cleaner nose fitting is removable, it won’t get warped when you wash it like other styles, so it’s EASY TO CLEAN. Just toss it in the washer and dryer on gentle cycles or wash by hand. For step-by-step cleaning instructions, please see FMV’s HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR FACE MASK page.

Each FMV Face Mask includes a Removable Nose Fitting

Face Masks as a Fashion Accessory

Wearing a face mask for several hours a day has become the “new normal” for millions of people around the world. They are now the first thing you see when looking at a person head on in a public setting.

Since we have traded the expressiveness of our mouths for opaque protective cloth, the way in which we use facial cues for communication has changed significantly.

It’s hard to read someone when their face is covered up. However, if that person is wearing a face mask printed with the The Kiss by Gustav Klimt, it could suggest they are an art-lover—something the observer perhaps wouldn’t have taken into consideration had the visual not been present. Like any worn accessory, face masks can be a form of self-expression, which helps us exchange non-verbal information with those around us.

FMV face masks are crafted to provide triple layers of protection from coronavirus, but please be reminded THEY ARE FASHION ACCESSORIES INTENDED FOR AESTHETIC PURPOSES. THEY ARE NOT MEDICAL GRADE MASKS. However, they will keep you safer from COVID than not wearing a mask at all.

I hope you enjoy my face masks. Please leave your comments and send your photos if you want to be featured on FMV’s customer page. Thank you and stay safe!

Virtual hugs,

M.