Although initially created as a practical winter garment, the modern-day beanie is designed to provide more than warmth in cold weather - it’s also a popular fashion icon. Originally a favourite with soldiers, seamen, fishermen and others spending their working day outdoors, they came into mainstream fashion in the 1990s and have remained popular to this day.
Beanies may be worn tightly fitting to the head or be loose on top and they are sometimes topped with a pom or embellished with a cuff. What makes beanies so popular is the fact that they’re adaptable, they come in a variety of styles, colours and materials, and can be worn with almost any outfit.
How to Put on a Beanie Correctly
Before learning about the different types of beanies out there, you’ve got to get the basics right. Unlike a t-shirt or a jacket, it’s not always obvious if you’re wearing your beanie the right way around. Although it may not look like it, beanies do have a front and back. To make sure you’re wearing it correctly, position the inside label so that it is always sitting at the back of your head. Another good indicator is if your beanie has a tag or a decorative label on the outside - it must be worn at the front. If in doubt, always use the inside label as a guide. There is no hard or fast rule about how low you should wear a beanie, but usually, they sit right above eyebrow level, covering your forehead, unless you’re wearing something like a fisherman style beanie or a slouchy beanie.
What are the different types of beanies and how should they be worn?
1. The Cuffless Beanie
This is the beanie in its most basic form, but that’s not to say that it’s lacking in style. The cuffless beanie is simple but trustworthy, and it works great in both a casual setting and for a smarter occasion, depending on the colour and material used.
Wear it well: The cuffless beanie is the easiest to style - just line the inside label up with the back of your head and wear it just above your eyebrows.
2. The Cuffed Beanie
One of the most popular designs due to its versatility and endless varieties available, the cuffed beanie seems to be everywhere these days. The cuff can add an extra layer of warmth too, without compromising on style.
Wear it well: The cuffed beanie can come pre-rolled or you might have to roll it yourself - do this only once. Wear it right above your eyebrows, with the rolled cuff covering your ears.
3. The High-top Beanie
The high-top beanie is similar to the cuffed beanie, but it has a bit of extra material which points upwards. This style is inspired by Scandinavian design and it’s very popular in urban settings.
Wear it well: The best beanie for the job is one made of a thicker material that can resist gravity. It should sit just above the eyebrows, covering your ears, and it should have a bit of extra material standing up tall and proud.
4. The Slouchy Beanie
The slouchy beanie is the opposite, sitting relaxed against the back of the head for a carefree look. Made popular by hipsters and poets, it shows you’re relaxed and always up for a good time.
Wear it well: To achieve this ultra-relaxed look, pull the beanie down to your hairline and let it droop down at the base of the head.
5. The Fishermen/Docker Beanie
Also known as a fisherman cap, this type of beanie is a shorter, close-fitting hat, featuring a cuff and usually worn above the ears. Its name comes from the fishermen who were the first to wear it, who needed something unobstructive but still wanted to keep warm.
Wear it well: Unlike the cuffed beanie, the fisherman style is worn well above the eyebrows and ears. It should only cover the crown of your head.
6. The Pom Beanie
Pom beanies are definitely the fun member of the bunch. Poms can range from small to oversized, they can be made of fur or yarn, and they’re always in style. The decorative addition of a pom shows playfulness and a love of fun.
Wear it well: Ensure the pom sits high on your head so that it can be admired from all angles. The beanie should cover your ears and be close-fitting.
7. The Chunky Knit Beanie
The cosiest beanie of all - the chunky knit. Its intricate and decorative patterns have been a favourite for many, and it doesn’t look like they’re going out of style anytime soon. They’re great for extremely cold days because they pack on the warmth and style.
Wear it well: Chunky knit can come in all shapes and sizes, so follow the above for style-specific guidelines on how to wear this winter favourite.
Which beanie will you choose to head out in style? You can shop hundreds of stylish beanies to find your favourite!