Flu masks get some fashionista flavor with the creations of New Yorker Patricia Lamberti, who has taken her Fashion Flu Masks where no flu masks have gone before.

Decorated with accoutrements like floral appliqués, leopard fabrics and satin ribbons, these protectors against pandemics strive to shed the shackles of postindustrial supply store.

But let’s face it: A fibrous oblong cover that obscures your nose, mouth, chin and cheekbones is pretty hard to make into anything beautiful. Still, it’s an attempt to say: Sick is bad enough, OK? We don’t have to look that way.

Paranoia levels vary among consumers, but choices are starting to appear that make taking control seem less about sacrifice, more about seamless integration.

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