When it comes to curating a winter wardrobe, the conversation often revolves around coats, boots and scarves. Yet, one accessory has quietly taken centre stage this season—hats.
Once considered purely functional, hats in their varying forms have undergone a major transformation, cementing their place as a must-have outfit addition. As someone who leans towards a more timeless aesthetic, I was initially hesitant about embracing winter hats—the most adventurous I get is a black baseball cap.
However, after spotting woolly, warm-looking headwear everywhere from the streets of London to the Instagram accounts of some of the most stylish influencers around (not to mention the autumn/winter 2024 runway shows from Chanel and Prada), I knew it was time to reconsider.
This winter, hats are no longer a finishing touch—they're a focal point. From cosy knitted creations to luxurious faux-fur options, designers are leaning into bold textures and unexpected styles. The perfect winter hat needs to keep me warm during those frosty morning commutes but also elevate my look in a way that feels effortless. Take the classic beanie; it's easy, understated and pairs well with wardrobe staples like wool coats and tailored trousers. This doesn't mean I can't see the appeal of the fun fluffy bucket hats and ultra-functional balaclavas that are unmissable this season, though.
At Miu Miu and Marine Serre, balaclavas were reimagined as sleek, stylish and surprisingly wearable accessories, whilst Max Mara gave us oversized fuzzy creations that radiated Old Hollywood glamour; and Loewe showcased how a baseball cap can be more than sporty, adding luxe leather versions to its lineup. The high street was quick to follow suit— COS, Arket and Mango are my recommendations for stylish winter hats for less.
Whether you're embracing a cashmere beanie or a wool balaclava, it's all about how you style it. Personally, I love pairing a neutral beanie with a tonal outfit for a cosy yet put-together vibe, and for those who lean towards a more playful aesthetic, a colourful or tactile-textured hat can inject personality into even the simplest looks.
Below, I've rounded up the four key styles dominating this season, and there's something for everyone, even if you're hat-averse.
Shop Our Favourite Winter Hat Styles:
1. The Beanie
Style Notes: The beanie is the ultimate cold-weather staple, and this season, it's anything but basic. Even super-luxe designers like The Row are leaning into minimalist iterations in neutral tones, whilst playful brands such as Ganni are adding a subtle logo element. Pair a classic ribbed beanie with a tailored wool coat and chunky loafers, or for a sportier look, opt for a slouchy, oversized beanie with a puffer jacket and wide-leg trousers.
This shade will go with everything.
A budget-friendly option.
If you want classic luxury, The Row's cashmere iteration in a classic black is the way to go.
Featuring an embellished logo patch for a modern edge.
Cosy, slouchy and under £20.
This looks so warm.
2. The Baseball Cap
Style Notes: Who says baseball caps are just for summer? This winter, they're getting a chic cold-weather makeover in elevated fabrics like wool, leather and suede. Whether styled with a longline coat or layered over a chunky knit, a baseball cap is surprisingly wearable during winter. Go for a monochrome look by pairing a leather version with a black turtleneck and straight-leg jeans, or channel an athleisure vibe by styling it with a quilted jacket, leggings and trainers.
A high-fashion take on the sporty classic.
It's giving Varsity Blues—literally.
A classic leather option in timeless black.
A subtle designer call-out.
Understated and chic in a light neutral tone.
An NY Yankees hat will always be cool.
3. The Faux-Fur Hat
Style Notes: Channelling a bit of noughties nostalgia, faux-fur hats are making a serious comeback this season. Bella Hadid and Rihanna are already on board, so if you aren't afraid to make a statement, why not join them? Whether you opt for a bucket style or a dramatic wide-brimmed silhouette, have fun by wearing it with double-denim, or go a little '80s with big gold earrings, tailoring and a camel coat.
A runway piece that oozes luxury.
Sleek and restrained.
Tick off two trends in one with a leopard-print winter hat.
A pop of colour to brighten things up.
For those who love a bold print.
Dusty pink will be big next year.
4. The Balaclava Hat
Style Notes: Once reserved for skiers and mountaineers, the balaclava has officially made its way into mainstream fashion this winter. From minimalist knitted versions to bold, colourful styles by emerging designers, the balaclava has become a cold-weather essential for fashion insiders. Its appeal lies in its ability to merge function and style seamlessly, keeping you warm whilst giving your outfit an unexpected edge.
Luxuriously soft and so cute.
A fluffy option in the colour of the season.
A chilly minimalist's dream.
Modern, understated and endlessly chic—it must be The Row.
Budget-friendly and in super on-trend shades.
Made from 100% recycled fabrics.
