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Face mask chains are the new must-have accessory: These are the chic yet practical styles to buy right now
Add some flair to your post-lockdown outfits with this year’s most niche trend
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Ever since the pandemic began, a number of interesting fashion trends have come to light, from the rise of loungewear as a hot commodity to DIY projects like tie dye.
But, for many of us, the prevailing fashion item that has been added to our shopping baskets was born from a practical need to stay safe.
Face masks have become an unexpected yet essential part of our everyday lives over the last year and, while many brands moved quickly to manufacture stylish options so not to compromise our sartorial credentials, they remain a point of contention for many.
Not only is it a significant adjustment to remember not to leave the house without one but there also comes the issue of not having anywhere convenient to store it when you are finally allowed to take it off while out and about.
Placing it on a surface seemingly defeats the point of wearing one in the first place but chucking it in your handbag means you run the risk of contaminating all your other belongings.
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Luckily, there’s a new accessory trend that solves everything: the face mask chain. Ensuring you always have a clean covering to hand, these game-changing items look just like a necklace and function in the same way as an eyeglass chain.
There are a variety of options available to buy, from elegant gold designs to fun, beaded styles, meaning there’s something to suit every ensemble, whether you’re travelling to meet friends for an alfresco feast or (fingers crossed) a night on the town. Shop our favourite face mask chains below.
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Mango facemask chain: £15.99, Mango.com
A stylish update on a childhood classic, this chain from Mango features a string of tiny blue beads that are intercepted by sweet flowers in orange, pink and grey. The colourful design would deliver a hint of vibrancy to any outfit and will work well with most mask designs. It is finished with a zip and carabiner fastening, meaning it can be used for both your face covering or sunglasses.
Astrid & Miyu circle link multi-use chain in gold: £49, Astridandmiyu.com
If you prefer the look of fine jewellery, this delicate chain is plated with 18k gold, making it a chic addition to your post-lockdown wardrobe. It includes two S-shaped fastenings to easily add onto face mask straps or you can even link them together and wear it as a chain necklace. The chain comes with rubber attachments too, so you can easily slide them on to your sunglass arms. Also available in rose gold and silver.
Wolford multitasking pearl logo chain: £95, Wolfordshop.co.uk
This chain from lingerie brand Wolford is certainly an investment piece but we don’t think you’ll regret it. The high-quality design is plated with 24k gold and features a multitasking chain made of classic links that are interspersed with four white glass pearls. A bold statement, this option provides a nice distraction from more clinical looking face masks.
Anthropologie evil eye mask chain: £24, Anthropologie.com
We’re a little bit in love with this charming chain, which takes all the hassle out of keeping your face covering close to hand. A colourful, beaded style that will make you want to leave the house, the chain is made with a series of peach and silver beads. The design also includes several “evil eye” beads, making it a must-buy for those of you who are superstitious. Why? The evil eye is a curse from Greek culture that states when someone is envious of you, they’ll have the power to give you an “evil glare” and send bad luck your way. Due to this, the evil eye talisman has become a symbol of protection that’s meant to guard you from evil spirits and bad luck. We’re sold.
New Look Gold double sunglasses and face covering chain: £4.99, Newlook.com
Make sure you never lose your face covering again with this gold-coloured design, which is made up of two different chains: one more elegant, beaded style and another that features heftier twisted links that give it the feeling of an antique heirloom. It comes with both metal and rubber clasps to make attaching it onto any style of face mask easy and it works as a necklace too.
Mint Velvet silver face covering chain: £8, Mintvelvet.co.uk
This delicate silver-tone chain attaches to your mask’s ear straps using small clasps at either end, keeping it within easy reach when not in use. The metallic finish is understated, making it ideal for those who like to switch up their looks regularly, but it still dresses up a plain covering. If silver is not your thing, it also comes in gold.
Looking for more fashion inspiration? Read our guide to the best plus size clothing shops online
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