Depending on which news source you turn to today swine flu is either behind us or just about to decimate the world's population. Whatever eventuates its influence on the public's psyche is undeniable, and accordingly the fashion industry is jumping onto the bandwagon. Introducing swine flu chic; the one fashion trend we hope you avoid more than double denim.
If one bit of swine flu chic has risen above all else it is undeniably the sudden prevalence of 'designer' face masks, with the none-too-subtle 'oink!' face mask being the most obvious. I can't see these taking off on the streets of New York or Melbourne, but won't be in the least surprised if to see them on many a face in the Far East, particularly Japan.
There have also been more subtle influences of the pandemic-that-may-never-be upon fashion; take COACD's handy tips on avoiding swine flu all, mixed in another set of pictures in their continuing exposure emerging model talent. Model Brendon's face may be obscured, but it's an image that makes an impact.
You can see more designer face mask designs by clicking the gallery below.
