A rather strange, semi-antiquarian accessory has been cropping up over the last few winters among the Zillennial populace. The knitted bonnet, otherwise referred to as a hood or balaclava should it cover a significant portion of your lower face, is the unlikely essential companion to any cold weather ensemble in 2025.
When the winter wind billows, releasing its icy-cold breath against your direction of movement and seemingly protesting your presence in the outside world by forcing you backwards – a simple scarf and a collar turned up in weak defiance of the elements simply won’t cut it.
Not only does an extra-large, blanket-like scarf pose its own restrictive struggles by unravelling in blustery weather and getting caught on your tote bag strap, but it won’t protect your freshly washed hair from the rain or keep your ears warm and toasty.
Balaclavas are no new winter gear concept. They’ve been used in unforgiving conditions for centuries – having originated during the Crimean War at the Battle of Balaclava in 1854.
Handmade, multi-use balaclavas were sent over to the British troops to help protect them from the bitterly cold weather in Ukraine and Russia and were originally crafted from wool. The bottom half could be pulled right up to the nose, pulled down alongside the hood to create a snood, or the entire hood could be folded back to form a hat.
Naturally, contemporary knitted balaclavas have been given a technicolour makeover while retaining their utilitarian purpose. The concept remains the same – an un-cumbersome, insulating knitted garment which keeps the head, neck and ears warm – with the only difference being the design and silhouette.
From tie-front bonnets to adjustable mohair hoods, we’ve curated a selection of the best knitted balaclavas for chic winter protection below.
Shop now
Damson Madder Pointelle Hood in Pink & Choc
Alongside brands like Peachy Den and Djerf Avenue, Damson Madder is the clothing brand in every Zillenial’s search history as of late – and for good reason. They’ve been designing chic knitted balaclavas for the last couple of winters, and we’re head over heels for this pointelle knit option in pink and chocolate-hued yarn.
Buy now £40.00, Damson Madder
Herd Bonnet in Jam
Inspired by the symmetry of the wheat sheaf, this pastoral, knitted red riding hood is the result of a collaboration between STRAW London and HERD. Featuring delicate ribbed trims and a lovely tie detail at the base, the ruby red hue makes this the perfect statement winter accessory.
Buy now £145.00, Herd
Weekday Hood Scarf
An ideal blend of a scarf and a knitted hood for brilliant multi-use wear, this super soft accessory by Weekday features ribbed scarf edges and cosy folded hemlines at the hood.
Buy now £34.00, Weekday
YoyoModa Balaclava Hood
A 100 per cent handmade dream crafted from a mixture of merino, silk, alpaca, wool and acrylic yarns, YoyoModa is home to a technicolour selection of striped, universal-fit balaclavas that’ll keep you warm all winter long.
Buy now £48.46, Etsy
Burberry Check Cashmere Hooded Scarf
Why invest in a standard Burberry scarf, when you can enjoy the sumptuously soft luxury of a two-in-one hooded scarf number. Crafted at a 200-year-old Scottish mill, the opulent fabric is washed in local spring water and brushed with teasels for that signature baby-soft finish. Opt for included custom embroidery for a personal touch.
Buy now £990.00, Burberry
AnotherHatBag Knitted Bonnet
Expertly and finely knitted, these bow tie bonnets by AnotherHatBag are available in a variety of colours, but we’re partial to this adorable lemon-yellow hue. With a 70 per cent merino wool construction, it’ll keep you warm and comfortable without the remotest semblance of an itch.
Buy now £69.94, Etsy
Brora Lambswool Balaclava
Known for producing knitted lambswool gems, we’re big fans of this colour-blocked contemporary balaclava by Brora, which features an adjustable tie front for ultimate warmth.
Buy now £95.00, John Lewis
Gunescrafts Crochet 3D Flower Balaclava
Crochet balaclavas are a classic option for the colour-inclined, often featuring multiple yarn variations for an eye-catching aesthetic. Crafted in Turkey, we adore the psychedelic, floral design which adorns this cosy handmade hood.
Buy now £41.33, Etsy
