10 Michigan companies making masks with style

A year ago, over even six months back, no one could’ve predicted the fashion trend sweeping the nation would be face masks. Yes, they are a necessary precaution during the pandemic, but in typical American form, they are now taking on stylish looks as well. Fabric masks can be washed and reused, yet for style’s sake, there is value in owning more than one. Fortunately, several Michigan companies have created cool options.

Addix (Lowell)
Typically in the business of making athletic gear, Addix stepped up to the plate in mid-March to start producing face masks. The company has now also added shields to its repertoire. Products may be purchased individually or in bulk.

Beth Milner Jewelry (Marquette)
This popular U.P. jewelry maker has added a line of stylish masks to its online offerings. You’ll find some with fish, trees, and even the Yoop on them. You can also do some good by purchasing fundraiser face coverings that support local causes like Upper Peninsula Land Conservancy or Vista Theater. While on the site, be sure to check out the awesome jewelry too.

Brightly Twisted (Detroit)
If you prefer a more retro look then the fine folks at Brightly Twisted have got you covered. Their tie-dye style ensures that your mask is one of a kind. They also offer colorful clothing and accessories worth a look while perusing.

Detroit Institute of Arts (Detroit)
How about sporting some of the world’s finest art on your mug? The DIA’s mask offerings include reproductions, one even featuring Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals.

Detroit Sewn (Pontiac)
This group was one of the first organizations to step up when help was needed. They hired additional people to respond to the shortage of masks after a request from Trinity Health Systems. They are now part of the 100,000 Masks for Detroit Families campaign. Detroit Sewn has face masks that can be branded with your own logo or art. Utilizing screen printing transfers, they are able to heat press vibrant, four-color art onto white or black masks.  Naturally, minimum quantities do apply.

Industrial Sewing & Innovation Center-ISAIC (Detroit)
This unique organization first jumped into the fray to make isolation gowns for healthcare workers. It now offers a pleated protective mask made with materials and sonic welding construction commonly used for surgical masks. The masks are made from non-woven material comprised of three layers of fabric to provide comfort, filtration and excellent breathability. These are less about fashion than functionality and are available in bulk to serve entities and communities.

Michigan Awesome (Holland)
If you want to wear your state pride on your face instead of just your sleeve, turn to the team at Michigan Awesome. They have masks in a variety of colors that feature the great state of Michigan on them. The company also makes a ton of other products within that same theme so shop around when you stop by their site.

Stormy Kromer (Ironwood)
Known primarily for the warmest hats on the planet, Stormy Kromer stopped its regular production of the famous caps and other apparel to produce masks and gowns for medical personnel like Bronson in Battle Creek. They now have face coverings available to the general public in some of their signature plaids. These are flannel and perfect when stocking up for fall.

Well Done Goods (Detroit)
The team at Cyberoptix, which is behind the Well Done Goods brand, has been producing wildly popular ties and scarves for years so it’s no surprise that they are now making face coverings. The designs are truly unique.

York Project (Detroit)
This community-minded company has shifted all of its operations to its sister company Soft Goods Detroit to produce non-surgical masks. The masks are plain and functional, but what is really stylish is another product you can purchase while on their site. York Project makes a Donation Kit available to purchase for just $5 each. It consists of a tote bag containing three items: socks, bottled water, and toilet paper to be given to a homeless person.

It appears that functional and fashionable face coverings will be with us for a while. Luckily one byproduct may be that the garment industry in our state is growing stronger each day as it supports those needs.