Halima Aden has teamed up with a fashion startup to produce face masks for frontline health workers who wear hijabs.
The 22-year-old model has created seven different mask and hijab sets that women can wear comfortably while staying safe.
The masks have been created for short-term use as opposed to 24/7 wear to provide hijab-wearing healthcare workers with something more comfortable to wear given that standard-issue masks don’t account for headscarves and facial coverings.
Aden is one of several high-profile fashion names to create a series of masks for the project, labelled “Banding Together”.
Hairstylist Chris McMillan and make-up artist Daniel Martin are among those who have also contributed stylish alternative face masks that come with matching headbands.
Aden’s Hijab sets cost $45 (£35) and can be purchased online here.
“Having worked in a hospital, even several months into my modelling career, it was important for me to support this project,” Aden said in a statement, referring to her own experiences of previously working as a hospital cleaner.
“As many hijab-wearing women are working at health care facilities, I wanted to make sure they have a comfortable option for wearing a mask while keeping their hair covered,” she continued.
“It can also get hot running around at the pace health care employees are right now, so a breathable fabric was a must.
“And I really wanted the pieces to give a feeling of tranquillity and calm, so I went with soft shades that bring a feeling of peace.”
The sets come in pastel shades of blue, lilac and yellow. Additionally, there are sets in grey and green.
Aden went on to explain how the coronavirus outbreak has disrupted her life.
“Like everyone, my livelihood has been turned upside down,” she said.
“I just keep reminding myself [of] something that my mom always says: ‘Hard times don’t last, but strong people do.’”
