# Accommodating Mask Mask designs are being optimized to be more accessible and serve specific needs. By [Kalin Ned](https://www.trendhunter.com/knedelch), Research Writer | Published Dec 18, 2020 | Category: [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/pro/category/modern-art-and-design-trends) Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/accommodating-mask ## Key Figures - Trend score: 6.4/10 - Evidence articles: 4 ## What is the Accommodating Mask trend? **Accommodating Mask:** Many brands and designers are reimagining face masks and accessories to cater to individuals with different needs. Whether it be for those with functional diversities or those who wear glasses, these products enable a more inclusive and thoughtful approach to safety. ## The consumer insight behind the Accommodating Mask trend Contemporary consumers have different needs and functional abilities. This results in a growing demand for products that take universal design into consideration, meaning that offerings are inclusive and accessible to a wide range of individuals, regardless of age, background, or ability. When this expectation is met, consumers do not only feel more comfortable but also included and relieved that they don't have to confront or adapt to design biases. ## At a Glance - Evidence: 4 featured examples - Articles from: Apr 7 to Dec 19, 2020 - Published: Dec 18, 2020 - Patterns: [Divergence](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/divergence), [Acceleration](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/acceleration) - Megatrends: [Experience](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/experience), [Catalyzation](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/catalyzation), [Personalization](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/personalization) ## Audience - Gender: 30% men, 70% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Themes within the Accommodating Mask trend ### Universal Design Businesses can benefit from creating universal designs of products that cater to the varying needs of a diverse consumer base, including those with different functional abilities. ### Aftermarket Face Mask Accessories Developing and marketing aftermarket accessories that make face masks more comfortable and efficient can cater to consumers' specific needs and enable more inclusive solutions. ### Smart Masks Next-generation smart face masks that offer speech transcription and translation capabilities can provide enhanced digital efficiency while maintaining health protocols in confined spaces. ## What the Accommodating Mask trend means for industry ### For Medical Supplies & Equipment Universal design and aftermarket accessories for face masks have the potential to disrupt the medical supplies & equipment industry to cater to a more diverse and inclusive consumer base. ### For Assistive Technology The development of face masks catering to the needs of those with different functional abilities is contributing to the growth of the assistive technology industry. ### For Wearable Technology The rise of smart face masks is indicative of a growing market for wearable technology that serves health and safety purposes. ## Workshop question In what areas can your brand benefit from universal design? ## Trend signals for Accommodating Mask Trend score 6.4 out of 10, from popularity 92%, activity 92%, freshness 9%. - Popularity: 92% - Activity: 92% - Freshness: 9% ## Examples of the Accommodating Mask trend 4 featured examples from Apr 7 to Dec 19, 2020. - [Hearing Impaired Face Mask Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/face-mask-design1): A College Student Created a Face Mask Design for the Deaf (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: There is an opportunity for fashion companies to create stylish and functional face masks as a new accessory. - [Speech-Transcribing Face Masks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cface-smart-mask): The Donut Robotics C-FACE Smart Mask Translates Eight Languages (Category: Tech) Implication: Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the integration of smart mask technology into healthcare settings to improve patient-doctor communication and documentation. - [Anti-Fogging Face Mask Accessories](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/custom-molding-nose-strips): These Custom Molding Nose Strips Enhance Wearer Comfort (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: Opportunity for the development and sale of accessories tailored to enhance safety and comfort in the healthcare industry. - [Accessible Transparent Mask Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/transparent-mask-design): Tella Couture Offers a Solution for Those with Impairments (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporate transparent mask designs into mainstream fashion retail, offering stylish and accessible options for consumers. ## Recent trend clusters - [Oven Aesthetics](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/decorative-casserole-dishes) (Art & Design) - [Assisted Choices](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/weight-loss-medication-support) (Lifestyle) - [Storyline Sips](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/themed-drink-menus) (Lifestyle) - [Bedtime Cocoon](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/sleep-sensory-blocking) (Lifestyle) ## Trending in Art & Design - [Park-Model Tiny Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/park-model-tiny-homes) - [Handmade Craft Tradeshow Initiatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ny-now-handmade-division) - [Recycled Neon Light Sculptures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/encore-encore) - [Electrically Powered Airline Seats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/premium-economy-seat) All articles: [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign)