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Photos: Dubai designer launches UAE-inspired face mask

Dubai - Handmade and reusable masks made by Indian expat Jino Mary Joy a tribute to the land she was born in and calls home.

A 27-year-old Dubai-based designer has launched a collection of face masks - including one inspired by the map of the UAE.
Indian expat Jino Mary Joy created the design as a tribute to the land she was born in and calls home. 
"Just hearing of the amazing work the UAE does every day to curb the spread of Covid-19 made me want to design these masks as a small token of appreciation and positivity - both of which are really needed at this time."
The founder of fashion label Stone Grey, Jino, said she initially began designing masks in response to family and friends who wanted an alternative to the surgical ones available in the market. But she didn't expect it to become as popular as it did.
"I'd planned to do it as a campaign at first, simply to spread awareness on what the new normal would be, maybe even as a conversation starter on sustainability. That quickly became so well-received that we decided to go all out."
As a brand that stands for sustainability, slow fashion and mindful shopping, the need to ensure the masks were environment-friendly was especially important to her.
Handmade and reusable, they are made to order in-house and not mass-produced, in keeping with their ethos.
The three-ply mask is created using two layers of fabric, and a non-woven mid-layer canvas that acts as filter. A metal strip has also been incorporated for the bridge of the nose to allow users to bend it as desired in order to avoid fogging up their glasses.
The designer noted that they now get several requests for personalisation, mostly for initials, star signs, custom words - and now, of course, the UAE map.
"The UAE has been kind and generous to all, especially during this time of crisis and panic. This design is very close to my heart and created to thank the country for their support and generosity to all its residents alike. As Dubai opens up for business, our message through this collection is to 'Stay Safe'," she said.
Jino further added the message of staying positive while safe is of supreme importance for everyone in the current situation. "Every news outlet is taking the time to spread awareness about the #WeAreAllResponsible campaign. It's the smallest thing we can do to wear our masks and keep ourselves clean in order to protect ourselves and those around us," she said.
karen@khaleejtimes.com