When it comes to winter fashion, nobody loves a cosy accessory more than moi. There's something about layering different textures over and over that just makes my heart sing.
Every year, as the temp starts to drop, my excitement begins to grow as my TikTok FYP and Instagram explore begin to generate the season's newest trending must-have. Once again, the must-haves in question is a knitted hood, snood or balaclava.
On the runway, brands like Miu Miu, Max Mara, Gucci, and Simone Rocha have all included hood options in their autumn/winter collections in recent years, while on the city streets, Instagram cool-girls are taking things a step further, championing an array of knitted delights in all patterns and colourways.
Now, I know balaclavas, knitted hoods (and snoods) have had their limelight in previous years, but this year there seems to be an influx of options, custom DIY revamps and a mixture of textured styles from both luxury and high-street brands.
What is a balaclava?
Originally made by troops to keep warm over the winter months during the 1854 Crimean War, balaclavas have withstood the test of time when it comes to practical fashion. Back then, the balaclava was basically a sock for your head with an opening to see out of, covering as much skin as possible to stay warm. Now, the balaclava is made in various silhouettes, but the premise remains the same - to stay warm.
© @alrstockwellWhat is a knitted hood or snood?
Typically attached to other clothing garments like a coat, sweatshirt or cape, the hood is basically a piece of fabric which covers the top, back and sides of a person's head. Once used by Knights for protection against bladed weapons ( theirs were made out of metal ofc), hoods are more commonly worn now for function and fashion purposes in a cosy knitted form. Have you ever had a coat that you wished had a hood to keep you warm on your morning commute or dry while waiting for the bus? Well, that's where the knitted hood comes in.
How do I style a balaclava or hood?
© @urbanoutfitterseuA balaclava or knitted hood is as much of a winter essential as a raincoat in London. Wear one with anything that needs a little spice, especially when you don't feel like dressing up but still want to feel cool and in the know.
The Best Balaclavas and Knitted Hoods To Shop Now:
1/10
Cashmere Lou Hood
Nona The Label
Made from ultra cosy 100% cashmere and adorned with intricately placed Swarovski crystal embellishments all over, this wardrobe delight is a festive season must-have like no other.
2/10
Pink Soft Wool Balaclava
Ganni
Stay cosy and on trend with Ganni's soft and luxurious alpaca-blend hood, complete with scarf extensions that effortlessly wrap around your neck to keep you warm throughout the season. If pink isn't your go-to colour choice, fear not there's an array of tonal shades on offer too.
3/10
Juliana Slalom hood
Hermès
Every fashion obsessive knows that when it comes to buying luxury, Hermès is at the very top of the lust list. Made from a 70% wool and 29% cashmere blend, the Juliana Slalom hood is the epitome of high-fashion flair.
4/10
Wool-blend Ski Mask
Miu Miu
Everything Miu Miu makes is a fashion lover's dream, so it's only right that the ribbed cream cashmere and wool blend ski mask is chicer than chic. Offering full coverage around the ears and neck, this option is perfect for the coldest of cold winter nights.
5/10
Knit Balaclava
Susan Fang
Everything Susan Fang creates instantly skyrockets to the top of fashion obsessives' wishlists around the globe, and their knitted balaclava is no exception. This blue ombré option is a subtle colour pop without being overbearing and will bring whimsical joy to any outfit.
6/10
Ford Balaclava
Shrimps
Complete with the most adorable knitted swan motif on each side and contrasting blanket stitching around the edges, this super-soft merino wool balaclava from cool-girl-approved brand Shrimps is a statement piece welcome in any wardrobe.
7/10
Soft Black Knitted Balaclava
Stine Goya
If you're looking for something a little more understated that will go with everything in your wardrobe, then Stine Goya's black knit option with tiny rosebud accents dotted all over is for you.
8/10
Cashmere Hood Scarf
H&M
Part hood, part scarf, this cashmere blend style from high street hero H&M really is the gift that keeps on giving. Perfect for layering and keeping cosy, style this wrapped around your neck, tied in a bow or left out to add dimension to any look.
9/10
Balaclava
Longchamp
Made for ultra soft 100% cashmere wool, Longchamp's ribbed balaclava in chocolate brown is a luxurious option welcome in any autumnal-toned wardrobe. The chocolate brown hue would look amazing with all hair colours and complement any skin tone.
10/10
Slouchy Hood with Wool
M&S
Affordable but utterly luxurious, this M&S Slouchy Hood is designed to be just the right amount of slouchy, so you can style it under coats and over crew neck jumpers with ease.
How I chose the pieces:
Style: With multiple variations out there, we wanted to focus on an array of different silhouettes to showcase how there truly is a balaclava/hood to suit everyone. We look into account those who prefer a more understated look and those who aren't shy of a little colour.
Brand: Whether you're unsure if a balaclava or hood is for you and want a low-cost commitment or are positive that you'd like one and are looking for a long-term investment, our picks range from high street to luxury.
Cosiness: This particular focus is on the winter knit, which means they have to meet our cosy tick of approval. From cashmere and merino to fluff and crochet, we cover all the snuggly musts.
Why you should trust me:
I am Orion, H! Fashion's Style Editor. I spend the majority of my days writing, breathing and living fashion, from styling jewellery and accessory shoots to curating shopping lists, interviewing designers and diving in deep on trending aesthetics. Let's also not forget to mention that shopping is my chosen sport of choice, making me an expert on where to find the best wardrobe essentials on the market.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
