The Unexpected Winter Accessories Taking Over Your Feed

Cocooning yourself in winter accessories like cable knit beanies and fringed cashmere scarves may be a no-brainer during the cold months, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room to play around with your looks—and right now there’s a new crop of winter accessories ready to step up your outfit game in a major way. We’re talking about balaclavas, snoods, and dickeys, which editors and style influencers are swaddling themselves in en masse to stay snug and take their ‘fits to the next level. 

After embracing a number of offbeat trends over the last two years—silk headscarves! teeny-tiny bags! grandpa knits!—we’re not at all surprised to see these playful pieces taking off right now. Equal parts practical and on-trend, balaclavas, snoods, and dickeys are a great way to conquer unpredictable weather—and a mood-boosting alternative to the traditional cold-weather staples that already live in your closet. 

Whether you’re looking for a new trend to get excited about or simply experimenting with your seasonal layering system, get ready to burrow yourself in the best balaclavas, snoods, and dickeys below.

Balaclavas and Knit Hoods

Once a staple among a skiers, now a mainstay on the runways, balaclavas are perfect for snowy days when your average pom-pom beanie, fleece headband, or faux fur earmuffs just won’t cut it. Not only will this full face mask protect your ears from harsh winds, but the cute babushka vibes will help you stay snuggly without having to burrito yourself in excess fabric. Best part? You can make this wintery essential work in milder temps too. Simply pull down the hood and wear it as a neck warmer. 

Snoods

Chilly temps are here to stay—and snoods, which are essentially a less fussy version of infinity scarves, are just the kind of versatile accessory you want living in your handbag or coat pocket. You can find snoods in all kinds of sizes and materials—from a cable knit neck warmer to a sherpa style that’ll keep you supremely toasty. Snoods are also effortless to style, playing well with most sweaters and outerwear already in your wardrobe, whether it’s a merino wool half-zip, quilted puffer jacket, or trench coat. 

Dickeys

First cousin to the snood, dickeys similarly eliminate the need for wearing bulky scarves or turtlenecks by shielding your neck from bitter winds, while also serving as a mini sweater vest that looks on-point during Zoom meetings. Opt for a classic neutral style to throw over button-ups or base layers, or pick one up with a hood for max warmth and protection.