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. This year, the must-have in question is the Balaclava and hood. Knitted hoods showcased on the runways of brands like Miu Miu, Max Mara, Gucci, and Coperni, have become a must-have accessory this season. Since July, Depop has reported a 398% spike in searches for knitted hoods (and a 281% increase for balaclavas since August).
Agus Panzoni, Depop's Trend Expert, highlights the "Minimalist Renaissance" as a defining aesthetic for 2025. This trend is "characterised by clean lines, neutral colours, and timeless fabrics such as wool and cashmere. With the rise of the quiet luxury movement, consumers are moving away from flashy logos and excessive decoration in favour of quality craftsmanship." As part of this shift, shoppers are embracing knitted hoods to enhance their winter outfits, opting for relaxed silhouettes that embody an effortless ‘off-duty’ vibe while staying cosy.
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 coloured knit variations, custom DIY revamps and a mixture of options from both luxury and high-street brands.
© Instagram / @ritaoraWhat 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Originally made by troops to keep warm over the winter months during the 1854 Crimean War, balaclavas have withstood the test of time when it comes to practical fashion.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 different silhouettes, but the premise remains the same - to stay warm.
What is a knitted hood?
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 whilst waiting for the bus? Well, that's where the knitted hood comes in.
How do I style a balaclava?
Not one to shy away from something a little out there (I was the girl at school whom people referred to as "the one with the weird clothes" so do what you will with that info) a 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.
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.
The Best Balaclavas and Knitted Hoods To Shop Now:
1/10
Hood in Red & Navy With Grey Tie
Damson Madder
Damson Madder is quite literally a one-stop-shop for fashion girlies around the globe and this striped hood proves exactly why. A bold statement that will spice up any winter outfit, this hood is peak East-London in the best way.
2/10
Cashmere Wool Knitted Hood
Rise & Fall
Made from A-grade cashmere and merino wool this chunky knit hood is perfect for the inevitable winter blast ahead. Available in an array of different colours to suit your style, there's something for everyone. I personally love this grey hue and would pair it with a French-girl red lip and an all-black outfit and boots.
3/10
UO Edie Knit Bonnet
Urban Outfitters
Technically more of a bonnet than a hood (but who's complaining) this cool-girl-approved fluffy black style is a styling statement like no other. As a certified bow obsessive I love the tie fixture under the chin.
4/10
Hood Scarf
Weekday
Two for the price of one, yes please! This scarf/hood duo is as multifunctional as it gets. Available in both a dusty white and dark grey colourway, there's quite literally no outfit that this wouldn’t suit. The option to double-wrap the scarf either under an oversized hoodie or bomber jacket has me excited for Sunday winter markets.
5/10
Check Wool Hooded Scarf
Burberry
This bold Burberry number is everything you could ever dream of in a winter accessory. I am in love with the blue hue Burberry has coined “Knight”, however, I also equally love their bright yellow “Pear” colourway. If you want me to justify this purchase to you, then here is your front-row ticket to Orion’s Girl Math University (for this to work you need to imagine me in a two-piece power suit and wearing glasses.) Retailing for £690, a pretty penny if you will, if we divide that by the number of days there are in winter, which is 89, that works out as £7.75 a day. Now that fellow Girl Math students is the equivalent of one croissant and a blueberry and custard brioche from Gails. You. Are. Welcome. *chefs kiss*
6/10
Double Wool Hooded Scarf
Prada
Following closely behind Burberry’s Check Wool Hooded Scarf is another designer delight. For those of you who love a simple luxury statement, this understated yet overly practical Prada option is for you. If camel isn't your hue of choice, its also available in black.
7/10
Over My Head Ribbed Balaclava
Free People
Lean into your inner It-Girl glam and treat yourself to a lush layer with this uber-chic ribbed knit in a perfect shade of dreamy cream.
8/10
Women's Warm Knit Hood Scarf
Urban Core
A pop of pink is always a good idea in my opinion, especially when paired with a tonal ensemble. This Barbie-approved option is for everyone who is currently in their girly-pop era.
9/10
The Gros Grain hood
Jacquemus
This ribbed hood is giving off ultimate aprés vibes in the best way. I’m picturing this dreamy woollen option with an all-white ensemble, right down to the snow boots. Très chic.
10/10
Cashmere Mohair Bonnet
Gobi
Made from luxurious cashmere mohair this tie hood in the dreamiest of baby blue hues is the perfect touch of colour to any dreary winter day. I love the idea of matching this with a jumper in a similar tone and pairing it with a shearling coat and Ugg boots.
Why you should trust me:
I am Hello! Fashion’s Fashion Features Writer. With a love for all things fashion (the quirkier the better), I can usually be found playing dress-up in my own wardrobe, watching Gilmore Girls for the 8th time or finding new outfit inspo and DIY musts on TikTok, nothing in my closet is safe from a safety-pin bow embellishment. I have been in the styling world for almost 5 years now, specialising in editorial features, luxury campaigns and music videos. I also did a quick stint in the celebrity styling scene. As for the world of magazines, I have worked for various digital and print publications around the world, focusing on fashion. Basically, fashion is my bread and butter.
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