Protective Face Masks That Are *Actually* Cute, Comfy, And Affordable (Eff You, Omicron!) (2025)

I don’t need to remind you that Covid is still very much a thing, and the Omicron variant is causing case numbers to skyrocket because it's even more contagious than the original virus…yet here I am. Anyways, it’s still super important to continue wearing a protective face mask or face-covering in public (even indoors!) to slow the spread, as per the Centers for Disease Control's mandate guidance. The TL;DR on that: Wearing a cloth face-covering helps limit the spread of respiratory droplets you emit into the air or onto another person or thing when you cough, sneeze, or talk. It’s not that hard, ppl!

And, yes, as per the CDC's guidelines in these Omicron variant times, wearing a mask is still highly encouraged, even for fully-vaxxed folks. Side Note: If you're not yet #TeamVaxxed and #TeamBoostered, consider the fact that this is about protecting others as much as it is about protecting yourself. Teamwork makes the dream work, baby! And according to the CDC, "vaccines remain the best public health measure to protect people from COVID-19, slow transmission, and reduce the likelihood of new variants emerging."

Luckily for those of us who still want to serve ~lewks~ during this time of uncertainty (we don’t blame you—it’s therapeutic!), fashion brands, boutiques, and basically every retailer on Etsy have plenty of cute and cheap face masks you’ll actually want to wear. Protective face covering designs have gotten so cool, in fact, that no 2022 OOTD is complete without one. Below, we’ve rounded up 45 of our favorites. (Spoiler alert: One even features "red lipstick" that won't transfer onto your teeth…YEAH, these brands have truly thought of everything).

Oh, and before you get to shoppin', just a few quick things: Since protection is the name of the game with these badass accessories, make sure yours’ fits snugly against your face, that it's washed after each use (more on that here), and that you remove it without touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Last but not least, don’t forget to wash your hands once it's off your pretty lil face! Now, without further adieu, here’s our list of the cutest face masks on the market and where to buy them online now.

Aesthetically, I know that KN95 masks aren't quite on par with the rest of this list. But here’s why wearing one is so important: The edges seal tightly to the face, helping filter up to 95% of particles in the air, according to the CDC. So, like, we couldn't not include it here.

We love a minimalist moment, and this celeb-loved brand delivered with their khaki PPE. For $36, you get 30 disposable face masks and two sustainable mask holders for on-the-go storage.

Adjustable elastic loops and embedded nose wires are essential for making sure your face mask is nice n' snug—these embroidered floral cuties have both.

Perfect for wearing during a workout, this mask features antimicrobial technology that prevents the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew. No smelly sweat residue here!

I mean, it even has a bow?! Truly the most dainty and delicate face mask I ever did see.

Your classic black and (off) white polka dot design…with a metallic twist!

Allbirds never disappoints, and these moisture-wicking, three-layer face masks made from upcycled materials are no exception.

Three breathable, reusable face masks for under $15?! Love to see it.

Hi, Southern Belles! This adorable 4-pack is for you.

Available in a wide variety of neutral tones and prints, these face masks are upcycled from Fabletics’ leftover legging fabric.

Marble will never not be cool. It's a neutral and a print and, for that, we love her.

Like I said, there’s a face mask to match every aesthetic—including street-style hype beasts.

Amazon describes these affordable neoprene face masks as inspired by “K-Pop style." Okay, I’m sold!

Collina Strada’s face masks are just as cool and unexpected as her ready-to-wear collections—this one is the perfect example.

Silk face masks are undeniably chic (plus, how cool is the silver chain print?!). This one features soft cotton jersey fabric and a waterproof filter underneath the top layer for maximum breathability and protection.

There’s no excuse to not be safe at an upscale event or party when this fancy sequin-embellished face mask from Katie May exist.

Ah, three of my favorite things: Comfy, cosmic, and cotton-lined.

Designed to feel like a second skin, this mask is so stretchy and lightweight, you'll barely notice that it's on your face.

If you're doing the most with your fit, slip on one of these nearly-nude face masks that won't clash with it.

Brooklyn-based shoe retailer Atoms is one of the few brands to launch size-inclusive face masks—this quick-dry polyester blend comes in sizes XXS-L.