Few accessories are as functional as the beanie. Unlike bag charms, bracelets and other add-ons we hit up in the name of good style, the beanie’s primary purpose is to keep us warm. And on the approach to winter, that makes the beanie very handy.
The beanie goes back way beyond east Londoners with a thing for independent radio. They can be traced back to the 12th century, where tradespeople who worked outdoors would wear them to keep warm. Since then, beanies have become a go-to for anyone who ventures outside in winter, including pop stars like Justin Bieber, and actors such as Keanu Reeves, but you can deffo rock one inside, too.
“Beanies work best worn with outerwear, from a transitional chore jacket to an oversized overcoat or padded down jacket,” says David Morris, Buying Manager at Mr Porter. “That said, beanies have also undergone a transformation, transcending their original purpose as mere cold-weather gear to be worn as a style statement. They are versatile and look great when paired with statement knitwear and a heavy duty overshirt for a casual off duty look.”
We’re not here to tell you how to dress, but with beanies, it’s best to keep things closer to your dome. “I’d say that any higher than above the ears is too high, especially if you’ve got big ears. Equally it doesn’t actually keep your ears warm which for me is one of the main things about a beanie. Maybe it’s something to do with guys wanting to look taller than they are,” says Billy Sims-Hilditch, Co-Founder of Sims Wear. “Just don’t go too big or too small – neither ends up being flattering. Too small and you’re obviously peacocking, too slouchy and you’re moving towards a Victorian nightcap.”
When it comes to choosing the right beanie, there are some things to consider, especially with materials. If you want a classic, comfortable look and feel, cashmere is the way to go. Take Italian menswear designer Luca Faloni’s cashmere beanie. “Our beanie hats all feature 100 per cent four-ply cashmere with a chunky, ribbed knit. It has been specifically designed to be warm and comfortable in cold climates so it is the perfect accompaniment for the ski slopes,” says Faloni.
Bauer-Griffin
But they’re not reserved high-altitude activities. Like most functional garments, the beanie has bounced around various style tribes. Hippies were wearing them in the ’60s as a marker of an alternative sense of belonging, and if you head to a skate park at any time of year, you’ll spot a die-hard skate rat who’s nearly as passionate about knitted headwear as they are for nailing tricks.