A covered face is nothing new on runways. In the past, designer labels like (from left) Marine Serre, Dior and Gucci have all showcased masks.
We're seeing it everywhere. Most people are putting on a face mask when leaving their homes. Even fashion designers and labels are selling face coverings in various trendy colours and silhouettes.
That said, runways around the world were already presenting face masks before the emergence of Covid-19. The message back then was mostly about pollution, if not for the extra dramatic effect a covered face can offer.
Read more: How masks went from 'muzzle' to fashion's object of desire
As the fashion industry evolves (will runways retain their former extravagance?), we take a look back at the times designers made use of masks in their shows. Just scroll through the picture gallery below.
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Malaysia's very own Datuk Rizalman Ibrahim incorporated elements of combat attire in a 2003 collection. Presented at KL Fashion Week (organised by The Star back then), his models walked with their faces covered.
Photo: KEVIN TAN HONG TAT/The Star
Rick Owens' shows always serve up major drama. His runways are often seen as performance art. For Spring/Summer 2019, he accessorised his male models with sequined, over-the-top face masks.
Photo: AFP
Gucci has always been dramatic with its runway styling. For Autumn/Winter 2019, models walked out with various headgear – one of them being a face shield of sorts.
Photo: Gucci
Marine Serre presented a variety of face masks at her Autumn/Winter 2019 show. Dubbed "anti-pollution masks", they painted a picture of a post-apocalyptic world.
Photo: Marine Serre
Dior made masks the central theme of its Spring 2018 Couture collection. The designs were a conduit for high-level fantasy dressing.
Photo: Dior
