Amal Clooney's sister under fire for selling 'luxury' face masks

Amal Clooney’s sister has come under fire for selling ‘luxury’ face masks online amid the global coronavirus outbreak.

Tala Alamuddin, who runs the online fashion retailer TALA, is selling face masks in different colours and patterns for $33USD face mask ($57) called ‘Le Masque’.

The ‘luxury’ item, also available in leopard and camouflage prints, and denim, is not medically approved, which has seen people hit out at Tala online.

“In our ever-changing world, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED: some comfortable (and chic) coverage goes a long way,” the product description states.

“The luxury face cover-up that offers protection with flair. Le Masque is designed with the natural curves of your face in mind, to give you a snugger fit.

“Whatever you’re up to, let’s face it together.”

The website is also selling hand sanitiser pouches for over US$30 ($51), but says items are only ready to ship in 8 to 12 weeks.

“You should be ashamed of yourself for selling these. Trying to profit of the coronavirus, that's literally killing thousands of people,” one angry person commented on the company’s Instagram account.

“Totally insensitive,” another wrote.

“How incredibly disappointing — selling rip-off medical face masks that absolutely DO NOT MEET medical standards whatsoever,” a third agreed.

While a fourth asked: “Is this mask an N95 mask?? Does it protect against the virus or is it just a fashion thing?

Tala did speak out against the criticism, also highlighting the fact that a portion of the proceeds will go to the Singapore Red Cross, as she lives in Singapore, to aid those affected by coronavirus.

“Masks are a staple in Asian households, and used regularly for colds, pollution and cosmetic recovery. Our masks are NOT N95 certified, and should be considered a physical barrier for sneezing and colds … but they are not medically certified.” she told Hello.

There were a few people who stuck up for the designer online, asking people to remain positive.

“I wish people would calm down with the vitriol. It is plainly stated these are not Corona stopping masks but they are donating profits to a worthy cause. I went ahead and bought one for myself and then donated directly to the Singapore Red Cross as well,” one person said.

“So people are doing 0% research and commenting...ok. Here we go, THE PROCEEDS ARE GOING TO CHARITY. It is literally in the description. It's not insensitive or rude IT IS FOR CHARITY,” another added.

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