It's officially balaclava season and we're certainly not (that) mad about it. With the need to bundle up as the air turns bitingly brisk, accessorizing opportunities rise. When temperatures drop to excruciating lows that feel shocking despite this occurring every year, it's easy for practicality and the need to feel cozy to outweigh our fashion instincts. But what if I told you that didn't need to be that case? A crazy concept, I know. While we all might be drawn to our neutrals, simple knits, and puffer coats, accessories are arguably the easiest way to elevate a winter outfit. And there are brands seemingly dedicated to making sure we do just that.
From embellished knit balaclavas to gloves with intriguing silhouettes to patterned faux furs to pieces embracing color in the most extreme ways to categories of winter accessorizes that we didn't even quite know existed (arm warmers, for example), I'm taking this opportunity to pay homage to the brands committed to keeping us both cozy and cute with non-basic statement-making winter accessories as it gets chillier and chillier.
Bimba y Lola
Bimba y Lola is a Spanish fashion brand known for their bold designs, unexpected prints, and distinct color choices. They describe themselves as a creative collective: often drawing design inspiration from the people, artists, and world around them.
Damson Madder
Damson Madder is a 2020-born brand known for its sustainable and ethical fashion ethos. They are known for grounding maximalist designs in current trends, all with the use of organic and recycled materials.
Rat Hat
Rat Hat is a project born out of a love for crochet and the boredom of the 2020 lockdown. Rat Hat makes everything from balaclavas to bedspreads, all handmade with love.
Apparis
Apparis was founded in 2018 by French duo Amelie Brick and Lauren Nouchi with the goal of redefining luxury fashion. They are known for their high-quality vegan faux fur which they use to create coats and accessories that make wearers feel chic and empowered.
Susanna Chow
Susanna Chow is a luxury slow-fashion brand based in New York City. Chow set out to combine sharpness with soft tones, create pieces that embrace modern femininity, and to commit to ethical practices.
Paloma Wool
Paloma Wool is known for its elevated basics, timeless silhouettes, Mediterranean-inspired color palette, and for doing everything with a bit of a playful twist. The brand, which has a strong cult following, is also committed to maintaining sustainable and local production.
