Someone wise once said, “There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” And the snood is the season's chic answer to dressing suitably for all of the yuckiest weather that winter has to offer.
The snood, or balaclava or hood, is the unexpected style star of the season. On one hand, this knit head covering is practical, covering your painstakingly styled hair and protecting it from the elements. (We all remember that scene in Bridget Jones when her headscarf flies away during a drive in a convertible leaving her looking like she walked through a hedge backwards.) On the other hand, it also looks surprisingly chic. Throw on a knit snood, and all of a sudden, you're channeling a mysterious heroine in a Russian novel. Impeccable winter vibes, if you ask me.
Chances are, you've already spotted plenty of It-girls walking the streets, protected from the wind, rain, and even snow in their sensible, fashionable snoods. But before you join the club, you're also probably wondering how to style a snood.
There's no denying that the knit headwear is a statement. So, you're going to want to lean in and style in a way that feels intentional. Here are a few ideas to get you started…
How to style a snood over a cap
For that model off-duty look, try wearing your snood over a cap. This I-just-threw-another-layer-on-and-wound-up-looking-effortlessly-chic look never fails to hit the stop. Plus, it will give you an added layer of protection from the wind and rain. Style with sporty track pants and a knit sweater for a truly understated look, or wear a structured blazer and sneakers. The point is, play with mismatched styles for some added interest.
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How to style a snood as a triangle scarf
Dakota Johnson just nailed this look. After the silk triangle scarf enjoyed a moment this summer and fall, the knit triangle scarf is a natural successor for the colder winter months. Tie a knit scarf around your shoulders over a thick wool coat; when the winds pick up, simply lift it up around your head. Et voila—snood!
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How to style a snood with lots of color
This winter is decidedly dreary, isn't it? Instead of leaning into the grays and muddy browns that define the season, rage against the grim weather with an explosion of color into your wardrobe. Dopamine dressing will never be out of style, and a snood is a great way to add a bold pop of color to your look. Add a few other bright pieces to add to the effect.
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How to style a snood as the only pop of color
If you're craving some bright, sunshine-y color but aren't ready to commit to a neon green coat or Barbie pink shoes, a bold, colorful snood is a great middle ground. This way, you can keep your elegant neutral basics while still adding a little fun to your look.
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How to style a snood with shades of neutral
Then again, perhaps you're a minimalist girlie through and through. If your favorite brands include The Row, Arket, and Gwyneth Paltrow's new Gwyn, stick to your tried and tested neutrals. Pieces like a beige jacket, a chocolate brown cardigan, or a brown suede skirt—paired with a cozy neutral snood—will see you through the winter in style.
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How to style a snood with black on black
For a gothic spin on the snood look, layer black on black on black. An all-black ensemble finished off with a black snood is an elevated Addams Family look that will see you transitioning seamlessly from day to night. Plus, your black snood will go with everything else you own if you choose to wear it again with a different look.
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How to style a snood with matching monochrome
Make a statement by going matchy matchy with your snood look. Commit to an intentional color moment by matching a colorful hood to a coat and/or sweater in the same tone. This playful, retro look works particularly well with strong blunt bangs. Add a pair of oversized shades to finish off the look.
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A version of this article was previously published in Glamour UK.
