Balaclavas are still relatively new to the fashion world, making their debut on the runway during Raf Simons’ third season at Calvin Klein back in 2018.
Experiencing ebbs and flows in popularity in the last few years, following Loewe’s and Vetements’ respective autumn/winter 22 shows, it’s safe to say that balaclavas are very much in. Women’s fashion has jumped on the balaclava bandwagon and brands such as Simone Rocha, Prada and Shrimps are producing wool, mohair, embellished and crocheted balaclavas that you’ll want to add directly to your virtual basket.
The history of the balaclava actually has its roots in the Crimean War. British troops on the frontlines were suffering in the cold weather due to a lack of proper clothing. Following the Battle of Balaclava in 1854, citizens began knitting warmer clothes for soldiers – including woollen caps to go under their helmets. The troops subsequently nicknamed the caps balaclavas, and thus we have the widely worn winter saviour that we all know and love. Knitters to the rescue.
Well, there you have it. A condensed history. But what’s the point of balaclavas now?
The point hasn’t changed at all, it’s just become more stylish. Keep your neck, ears and head warm with a heavyweight knitted balaclava during the winter months, while also protecting your hair from the elements. Sport a lighter, bonnet-style balaclava as the cold dissipates for a statement piece. If you’re an outdoor runner or cyclist no matter the weather, you’ll probably want a sportier model than the below knit pieces.
Conversely, if you’ve clicked on this article for some guidance in the world of high-fashion balaclavas, keep scrolling for our top picks.
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Shrimps Ford Balaclava
Delightfully crafted from a blend of alpaca and merino wool, this balaclava by Shrimps is featured in a white and red colourway and is therefore the perfect accessory for all your Christmas market and terraced pub trips this season. The mid-sized motif of horses embracing is simply adorable, and we particularly like the fact that the base of the balaclava has a zip fastening.
Buy now £225.00, Shrimps
Jakke Bonny recycled polyester-blend knitted balaclava
Stop traffic and save the planet at the same time with this knitted balaclava by London-based sustainable brand Jakke. Founded by East London designer Nina Hopkins, Jakke prides itself on providing fashion-forward women with the ability to confidently buy into high-quality ethical fashion.
This balaclava features more of a hooded design, providing more breathability as well as preventing your freshly applied makeup from rubbing off. It’s mid-weight and stretchy, so it’s all-in-all the perfect middle ground balaclava.
Buy now £60.00, Selfridges
Simone Rocha beaded knitted balaclava
Spun in Portugal from a soft blend of virgin wool, Simone Rocha’s romantic take on the balaclava trend has our eyes glistening and wallets twitching. The crystal and faux pearl embellishment surrounding the face opening truly embodies the idea of making balaclavas a fun fashion accessory. We’ve featured it here in black, but it’s also available in grey and white for all your grunge meets girly needs.
Buy now £356.00, Farfetch
Monki Green chunky knit ski mask
Simple and effective, this regular-fitted bright green balaclava from Monki certainly fits the bill when it comes to practicality and fashion. Despite the chunky knit design, it’s actually made from 89 per cent polyester and just 6 per cent wool – making it both lightweight and machine washable. A winner for those of us who are planning on wearing our balaclavas all day, every day this winter.
Buy now £10.00, Monki
Brora Wool & Cashmere Balaclava Bonnet
Brora’s wool and cashmere balaclava bonnet was designed in collaboration with stylist Rachel Bakewell and is a true winter must-have. Styled in a beautiful rose pink and crimson colourway and finished with a perfectly sweet bow, this alternative to a traditional beanie is to-die-for.
Buy now £195.00, Brora
Samsøe Samsøe Rossi balaclava 14580
This dreamy knitted balaclava from Scandi brand Samsøe Samsøe features a draw string opening, so it looks like it’s been popped right off the top of your favourite hoodie – making it the perfect companion for a business-casual commuter who might not get away with wearing said hoodie to work. It’s made from 81 per cent wool and has a little bit of nylon and elastane for that extra flexibility and stretch.
Buy now £100.00, Samsoe Samsoe
Jacquemus embroidered brushed faux fur balaclava
Is it a bird? Is it a hat? A cap? It’s… a billed balaclava from Jacquemus. Made from brushed faux fur, this sporty, outlandish and chic balaclava is a must-have for all our fashion statement-makers out there.
Buy now £180.00, Net-a-porter
Damson Madder crochet balaclava in lilac mix
We simply adore this cool-toned crochet dream made from granny squares by Damson Madder. Made from 55 per cent cotton and 45 per cent acrylic, you can be sure that this is a high quality garment with the capacity to go a long way. We can image this looking super cute on a cool night at the beach, no matter the season.
Buy now £55.00, ASOS
