Thong Masks Have Arrived at New York Fashion Week

Among the utility wear, leather harnesses, and knit dresses in Dion Lee’s fall 2022 lineup at New York Fashion Week, one standout accessory was a constant on the runway: thong masks. The Australian designer, known for his unique cutout designs and fresh take on corsets, often starts trends embraced by the street style and red carpet crowds alike. So, it’s likely a matter of time before celebrity fans of the brand, including Megan Fox, Dua Lipa, Normani, and “Euphoria” star Alexa Demie, start stepping out in this unique accessory.

At the Dion Lee runway show, models wore thong-shaped fabric over their nose and mouth in bright-blue lace and neutral canvas, cut from the same material as their outfits. Lee said he drew inspiration from his surroundings for the unconventional face coverings. “I was looking at the idea of architectural facades and masks, obviously the influence of face coverings at the moment – feeling like it becomes part of your identity in a way,” the designer told WWD.

They may not be the most practical masks you’ve ever come across, but they certainly spark conversation. Some Twitter commentators have already noted that the “G-string theme,” which we’ve recently seen peeking out from pants and skirts, has made its way to the face, while others joked that the models look to be sniffing lingerie.

As one Twitter user pointed out, the coverings might even remind you of anti-maskers who tried to board planes wearing lingerie on their faces as a “protest” against mandates. Perhaps these designer masks are Lee’s satirical response to those outrageous news reports. While N95 masks are of course known to offer the highest level of protection, the designer’s cloth masks do technically fall under the CDC’s recommendations, as they appear to fit snugly over the nose, mouth, and chin.

Twitter commentary aside, you have to applaud Lee for piquing our interest and bringing a little humour to New York Fashion Week. Ahead, take a closer look at the masks on the runway.