Americans are renowned for their entrepreneurial spirit therefore it is not surprising that they have quickly taken advantage of the opportunities offered by the pandemic. In the last few months stores carrying all sorts of Covid-19 accessories have been popping up across the country.

Nadav Benimetzky, opened his first “Covid-19 Essentials” pop-up store last June in Miami and his chain now counts eight locations. Masks are undoubtedly the fashion accessory of the year, and in these stores there’s one for every style and occasion: from animal prints and sports team logos to sequined masks and face coverings customized with initials.

From the industry’s point of view, the production of masks and Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) has kept the US apparel/textile sector afloat this year. Nate Herman, senior vice president of policy at the American Apparel and Footwear Association, recently confirmed, “Made in USA was US$50 billion last year and it is slightly up this year because apparel production has increased 5% in US mills. We have shifted to making masks and medical gowns.” However, it’s not only about masks. In New York City’s CV19 Essentials store (not part of Benimetzky’s chain), the bestsellers are also sleek tech gadgets such as personal air purifiers and portable UV light sterilizers, because in 2020 health and style must go hand in hand.



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