No one imagined that society would still be in a pandemic through 2021, but that is the case as we continue to social distance through the new year. The latest pandemic fashion has been staying at home with pajamas but what about outside? Masks now come in many different patterns and varieties to choose from, fashion masks are the new craze. 

As some continue to shop at local grocery stores, outlets, or malls they will most likely stumble upon a pack of masks. These masks will come in a variety of different patterns and colors such as floral patterns, marvel designs, or even neon masks.

Tik Tok, a social media platform where students share one-minute videos, has also followed up on the latest mask trends. Tik Tok influencers have been wearing fashionable masks during haul videos, inspiring fans to buy the exact same mask. Recently a popular mask mentioned through Tik Tok has been the KF94, a South Korean mask that is equivalent to the N95.

“I love wearing different kinds of masks to work,” said, senior, Guadalupe Gutierrez. Working at a local winery, Guadalupe wears a different mask each day to prevent the risk of COVID-19. “Having more than one mask has helped me feel reassured of my safety and I get to show off a new floral design each day,” said senior, Guadalupe Gutierrez.

Many students also catch up on the latest mask hack on TikTok such as “my younger sister has glasses and after this whole TikTok trend stuff showed up ways on how she could wear a mask without it fogging up her you know glasses,” said senior, Vanessa Mondragón. Other platforms Mondgraon mentioned she views mask hacks are on Instagram and Facebook. 

Mondragón says that showing off masks on social media was “at first  boring because we assumed this pandemic was not going to be this long, but now I actually see them as helpful.” Social media platforms have created a safe space for people who frequently wear masks.

There is an ongoing debate on whether surgical masks are environmentally friendly. “Personally I prefer cotton masks even though they are not as efficient. I tend to double up when I know I’ll be in a crowded area but besides that cotton masks are the way to go,” said