fabric face masks

What Does Your Mask Say About You?

Masks have become an essential part of our modern lives, necessary for stopping the spread of Covid-19. So, how can we express ourselves and connect with others while maintaining our safety? We have been exploring the psychology behind what your face mask says about you. Shakaila Forbes-Bell, Fashion Psychologist and founder of Fashion is Psychology shared the insight below.

There is a great deal of evidence which suggests that your clothing plays a vital role in interpersonal communication. The styles we choose to wear are dictated by a host of factors including our mood, our culture, and our interests, all of which reveal aspects of our identity. Equally, research has shown that we interpret a lot about a person’s character, sociability and more from their clothing. Opting to wear a more expressive reusable mask can be a way to reveal a bit more about you. 

Here are a range of perceptions that people associate with certain colours that can inform your choice of reusable mask.

man wearing black face mask

Black shows confidence

Studies have shown that the colour black is often associated with authority, causing people to have a greater influence over group dynamics and even making people appear to have more integrity. It’s the perfect colour to choose when you want to show confidence. 

girl wearing read face covering

Red is associated with romance and taking action

Studies have revealed that people not only associate the colour red with romance and passion, but in western countries there is also a strong connection with red and quick, decisive action. One study found that when asked to attend an interview about dating, participants walked faster to the interview if they were exposed to the colour red. 

man wearing green face mask

Blue and green suggest calm 

Cross-cultural studies have found that natural colours (such as blue and green) are often associated with ‘goodness’. Choosing to wear a mask in these colours can serve to communicate positivity and portray a serene side to you.

girl wearing yellow face mask

Yellow means optimism

Word association studies often link the colour yellow with happiness making it a good choice of mask colour if you want to convey optimism. 

woman wearing pink face mask

Pink shows independence

Pink is no longer seen as a delicate colour; it is now linked with power and revolution. Research has shown that many now associate the colour pink with independence and post-feminist femininity.

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Reusable masks can be made from most fabrics you have at home including old clothing, bedding or even curtains! We've teamed up with the Barnet​ sewing community to show you how to make your own.

 

Published date
11 February 2021

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