The Best Beanies For Women
Beanies are the iconic casual headpiece, and no seasonal wardrobe is complete without them. Though we might typically associate them with protecting our heads from a chilly breeze, you can also find beanies made from lightweight fabrics for when temperatures rise. It's not surprising that this classic hat design has inspired so many inventive reimaginings. There are endless styles to choose from, ranging from traditional designs to bright and bold contemporary patterns. Take a look below to find the right beanie for you.
What to Look For
With so many great options to choose from, browsing through beanies online might leave you scratching your head. To make things a little easier, we’ve highlighted a few key questions to keep in mind as you weigh your decision: How insulating is the material? Is there a range of colors and patterns to choose from? Does the elastic offer a secure fit for heads of all sizes? Our favorite beanies overall are the bold and wonderful skullies from Jemis. These lightweight hats come in a vast range of alluring colors and patterns that are sure to excite even the most eclectic tastes. If you’re looking for a classic beanie aesthetic, we’d point you towards the option from Amazon Essentials, which comes complete with a yarn pom on top. Read on below to discover the rest of our top picks.
Jemis Skullies Beanies
Flamboyant patterning
Treat yourself to a world of color with these eye-catching beanies from Jemis. The range of patterns and designs on offer here is truly staggering, so you can feast your eyes and take your time choosing the look that best suits your style. We love the bright designs tipping their hat to the woven patterning of traditional Middle Eastern fabrics. Whatever tickles your fancy, you’re sure to find a look that challenges the status quo here.
Pros:
- These beanies come in a two-pack, offering great value and the opportunity to mix up your look as you please.
- Some of the designs come with an insulating velvet lining.
- With a large opening in the top, these beanies can also double as a neck wrap.
Cons:
- This lightweight design isn’t the best defense against extreme cold.
Tough Headwear Cable Knit Beanie
When temperatures drop, you can rely on cable knit garments to keep your extremities toasty. This age-old knitting style uses the thickest yarn to create a soft and highly insulating surface. This understated option from Tough Headwear is made with premium acrylic yarn for added durability. With a range of subtle colors to choose between, these dependable beanies will blend effortlessly with outfits across the board.
Pros:
- Acrylic fabric can be less itchy than natural alternatives, making this a suitable choice for anyone with sensitive skin.
- Thanks to the slightly relaxed fit, there’s plenty of room for buns or ponytails to sit inside.
Cons:
- This one-size-fits-all design might leave some with an uncomfortable fit.
Ellewin Cotton Slouchy Beanie, 4-Pack
Slim jim
Most folks associate beanies with the cooler months of the year, but this lightweight design from Ellewin offers an option that’s comfortable no matter the temperature. These beanies are kind to sensitive skin and delicate hair thanks to their dainty and ultra-soft, 90-percent cotton fabric blend. What’s more, with four distinct colors to choose from in each set, you can choose the hat to suit your mood each day.
Pros:
- This multi-pack is also a great choice for families or groups of friends, thanks to the unisex and one-size-fits-all design.
- The double-layered fabric is surprisingly insulating despite its insubstantial weight.
- Cotton is more breathable than synthetic fabrics, making this beanie light and airy when worn in warmer temperatures.
Cons:
- The loose-fitting elastic might not hold its place on smaller heads.
Amazon Essentials Chunky Cable Beanie With Yarn Pom
This design couldn’t get much closer to the classic beanie style. Stitched from chunky cable knit acrylic, it’s a seriously snug headpiece that will keep you warm outdoors during the coldest seasons. The yarn pom is a cute touch that’s sure to top off any vintage look. All in all, this is a sure winner for those with an eye for classic styling.
Pros:
- The pom isn’t just for looks — it also makes it easier to get this beanie on and off in a flash.
- The thick cable knit can be easily rolled up to alter the hat’s size.
Cons:
- This pick doesn’t have many color options to choose from.
Funky Junque Messy Bun BeanieTail
Up and away
If you’re convinced that a beanie won’t cooperate with thick or long hair, this open-topped design could be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Thanks to the hidden ponytail opening at the top, you won’t be stuck wearing your hair down in this hat. The discreet opening will scrunch shut when not in use, so you won’t suffer from a draft if you wear your hair down. It’s the ideal hat for updos.
Pros:
- The elastic closure is durable and very stretchy, making it a great fit for heads of all shapes and sizes.
- Combo packs are available if you want to mix and match colors.
Cons:
- If you don’t like to wear your ponytail up high, you might not find a comfortable fit through this opening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I machine-wash my beanie?
You might want to think twice before you throw your worn beanie in with the rest of your household laundry. Because of the thick knitwear patterning and insulating materials, these hats aren’t usually well suited to machine-washing. It’s always worth checking the label to be sure, but beware that knitwear can shrink even when washed at low temperatures.
What’s the difference between acrylic and cotton beanies?
Synthetic fabrics are often selected for their improved durability when compared to natural materials. Most traditional knitwear is made using cotton, and the options we found using this natural fiber tended to be softer on the skin.
About the Author
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Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.