WE'RE as surprised as you are, but it's looking like the must have accessory this winter is a hooded scarf.
Combining a hat and a scarf, the cosy warmer slips on over your head and keeps your ears, head and neck insulated from the cold.
The hooded scarf, or balaclava has been quietly seeping into the fashion scene for the last few seasons, but only now has it really made its big leap in to the mainstream circuit.
Having said that, celebs have been wearing them for a while, and we mean A-Listers like Queen Bey (Beyoncé) herself and fashion's it-girl Gigi Hadid who was seen wearing a net version on the runway.
Despite being more widely accepted now, the balaclava has had its sticky moments over the past few years because of its association with anarchy, but with the feminine, fluffy designs that are available, that connotation couldn't feel farther away from what they represent now which is a fashion trend that conveniently keeps your entire head warm.
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If this all seems a bit out there, we get it, and we thought we'd help out by sourcing our favourite styles that you can get your hands on (or head in) right now.
1. & Other Stories Balaclava Knit Hood
Made from responsible wool, this neutral balaclava from &Other Stories is a warm and easy stepping stone into this fashion trend if you're feeling a bit nervous.
The ribbed finish adds some texture which is what we think gives this one the edge but remember not to put this through the wash if you don't want it to shrink.
- Balaclava Knit Hood, £40, & Other Stories - buy here
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2. My Accessories London button up chunky ribbed balaclava
If you're going to go for a balaclava, we reckon you may as well really go for it.
This eye catching blue, chunky knit offering has poppers around the chin and neck to fasten everything together and keep you snuggly and warm.
- My Accessories London button up chunky ribbed balaclava, £12, ASOS - buy here
3. Cider Solid Knitted Balaclava Cap
Cider is always on trend. Head to its website and you'll be able to find TikTok trending styles, exactly as you imagined them at seriously low prices.
This balaclava is a prime example. The purple shade is flattering and the wooly textured hood pulls on over the head and covers the ears, chin and neck - perfect for those extra cold days.
- Solid Knitted Balaclava Cap, £9.90, Cider - buy here
4. Sandro Knit Balaclava
Fancy adding a sprinkle of French style to your winter outfits? Then take advantage of the 40 percent discount on Sandro's knit balaclava.
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It's ribbed around the face to make sure it stays in place and comes in a subtle neutral shade which works with so many different skin tones.
- Knit Balaclava, £47.40 (was £79), Sandro - buy here
5. Weekday Ella Hairy Knit Balaclava
Balaclavas are often a similar shape but the difference between them is the colour and texture. This one from Weekday has both.
It's a deep, earthy green and made from super soft yarn which is what gives it the mohair like finish.
The opening around the face is flexible, so you can open it more when it's milder or pull it further together when the weather's colder.
- Ella Hairy Knit Balaclava, £19, Weekday - buy here
6. JAAKE Bonny recycled polyester-blend knitted balaclava
An eco-friendly option, the bright orange makes this one stand out from the crowd.
Made partly from recycled polyester, it has the Selfridges Project Earth seal of approval which means it is included in an edit of products that are good for people and planet. Win win.
- JAAKE Bonny recycled polyester-blend knitted balaclava, £60, Selfridges - buy here
7. H&M Ribbed Balaclava
Affordable and soft, this textured, hood like balaclava comes in a really wearable grey colour.
Toggles add an extra something to this H&M buy and the neck comes down to the chest for extra warmth.
- Ribbed Balaclava, £12.99, H&M - buy here
If you enjoyed this then read more about six ways to dress yourself happy and banish the blues.
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Want to find more savings on your online shopping? Then head to Sun Vouchers where you can get discounts and voucher codes on hundreds of top retailers including B&Q, Boots, Iceland, Lookfantastic, Dunelm, adidas and more.
