GLAMOUR UN - MASKED

Chitra Balasubramaniam uncovers the latest trend in masks, a perpetual accessory during this raging pandemic, including embroidered, lace and even bejewelled ones that are set out to make this wedding season an absolute delight

- Chitra Balasubramaniam

“Purdeh mein rehne do, purdah na uthao...” Remember that song? In such times as these, it is important to contemplate on the above words. A perpetual accessory nowadays, the mask which started off as a protective gear worn only to ward off Covid-19, pretty soon diversified into various avatars and as the wedding season kicked off, took a dip into the world of glamour as well. While Pfizer may have begun vaccination one country at a time, masks will continue to remain a necessary accessory at least until the near future.

So what happens to someone who is all decked up for a wedding but has to wear a horrible blue hospital mask to protect themselves from Covid-19? They would be absolutely frustrated! That is what started the craze for wedding masks, bejewelled masks, etc. While these were initially manufactured for basic protection, the second phase of the lockdown saw experimentation with fabric, embroidery and quirky patterns. However, the third phase now seems to have shifted on to a completely new tangent as experiments have begun with colour co-ordinations and adding a sense of drama to outdoor ensembles.

Designers and manufacturers are also experimenting with embellishments, natural dyes with medicinal properties, use of eco-friendly or organic material and even the use of silver, gold, diamonds, precious pearls and crystals! The online store Etsy even has a guide to masks being sold everywhere. While the efficiency of these masks against protection from Covid-19, is quite questionable, the sheer range of these little beauties is breathtaking.

WEDDING FRENZY