Balaclavas have suddenly become fashion’s hottest accessory. But as the thick, knitted headpieces rise in popularity, there’s a clear double standard about who can and can’t wear them without fear of being stigmatized for their religious beliefs or cultural background.
Everyone from Kim Kardashian to Kanye West has been seen wearing balaclavas of all shapes, designs, and colors. Meanwhile, as the accessories are made fashionable by celebrities, Muslim women and people of color have faced persecution for head coverings long before these crocheted daisy balaclavas started to pop up all over people’s Instagram feeds.
