With cooler months approaching, it's time to update your wardrobe! We aren’t only talking about clothes, but accessories, too. Some may shy away from beanies, thinking they don’t suit their face shape or hairstyle, but we’re here to change your mind. Perhaps you already have a beanie but aren't sure how to wear it? Don’t worry, we’re here to help! In this blog, you’ll discover how to wear and style a  beanie - from matching to your face shape, styling your hair, and how to accessorize it.

Flatter Your Face Shape

In a separate blog we discussed finding the best hat for your face shape, but here we will focus on beanies. While we all have different face shapes, we need to understand how to match the right beanie to the right face shape.

Face shapes infographic

Round Face Shape

If the length of your face is similar to the width across your cheekbones and forehead, you may want to create a lengthening effect with your beanie. To achieve this, avoid tight beanies. Instead, opt for a beanie that sits low on your forehead. A beanie with a bit of extra volume at the top can also elongate your face, giving it a more balanced appearance.

Woman wearing grey beanie.

Square Face Shape

 

Grey cashmere slouchy cuff beanie with fur pom

A square face has nearly equal width at the cheekbones, jawline, and forehead but with more angular features than a round shape. To soften these angles, choose hats with round or curved shapes to create a balance. Similar to round face shapes, avoid tight-fitting beanies and those with harsh angles. Steer clear of hats that end in the middle of your forehead, as this can emphasize the width. Beanies with small details, like a pom-pom, can further soften your appearance.

Oval Face Shape

An oval face has a rounded jaw, similar to a round face, but is longer in length. The length is approximately 1.5 times the width. This face shape is versatile and suits most hat styles, so feel free to experiment with different types and styles of beanies.

Lilac cashmere slouchy cuff beanie on model in ivory sweater

Oblong Face Shape

An oblong face is longer than it is wide, with similar measurements across the forehead, cheekbones, and chin, often featuring a high forehead. For longer faces, the goal is to create the illusion of width. Avoid slouchy beanies, which can elongate your face further. Instead, choose hats with a wide trim to add width to your face. Fisherman-style hats are also a great option for this effect.

Model wearing a denim blue knit cuffed beanie

Heart-Shaped Faces

If your forehead is wider than your cheekbones and jawline, the goal is to balance the wider upper part of your face with the more narrow lower part. Slouchy beanies are perfect for this, as they help downplay the width of your forehead while adding a bit of volume and shape. You can also choose beanies with a wider trim to draw attention to the lower part of your face, creating a more balanced look.

Woman wearing grey beanie.

Play Around With Different Hair Styles

Many women avoid wearing hats because they aren't always kind to hairstyles and can quickly ruin the look. However, there are some options that allow you to keep a polished hairstyle without sacrificing your beanie.

Woman with grey beanie making a pony tail

Chic Looks for Girls with Long Hair

  • Loose hair under a beanie: If you want to wear a beanie with your hair down, you can brush it beforehand to make it look more polished or rock the air dried look for a more natural feel. Add a bit of texturizing spray for added volume and style. 
  • Braids: For a cute look, you can create one or two braids. This is an effortless and practical hairstyle that keeps its shape when you take off your beanie.
  • Half up, half down: If your hair is difficult to manage, you can opt for a half-up, half-down hairstyle instead of leaving it all down. Keeping a few strands loose in the front offers a relaxed appearance.
  • Side-swept hair: To emphasize your face, comb your hair to one side and place the beanie on your head, making your hair fall freely to one side.
  • Hidden hair: For those who want to highlight their face and create a minimalist look while potentially hiding unruly hair, you can tuck your hair under the beanie. Gather your hair into a low ponytail or braid it, then twist it into a bun at the nape of your neck. Place the beanie over your head, covering all your hair. 

Stylish Looks for Girls with Short Hair

  • Wear it down: Simply wear your hair completely down for a city chic look. Adding a few waves or curls can be added for extra style.
  • Side fringe: For those with a side fringe, position the beanie so that it covers your head, leaving some textured strands of hair peeking out from under the cap at the front or sides. If you want to accomplish a clean look, apply spray or wax to your fringe. Style the beanie toward the back of your head so part of your forehead is showing.
  • Beanie details: To create a styled and fun look, let the beanie take center stage by choosing one with a pom-pom or brooch.

How to Accessorize it?

Woman covering eyes with black fluffy gloves.

Now that you've chosen the best beanie and managed you hair style, let's explore how to style it with essential accessories for chilly days:

  • Gloves: Most of your body heat escapes from your head and hands, so keeping your hands warm is a must. To create a polished look, match the color of your gloves with your beanie. 
  • Scarves: While matching your gloves and hat, opt for a bold contrast with your scarf. Pair colors that sit opposite each other on the color wheel, like a classic Andy Warhol color palette - a navy blue beanie with a burnt orange scarf or choose a checkered or plaid pattern!
  • Sunglasses: Even in autumn and winter, the sun can be bright. Don’t forget your sunglasses to add a  finishing touch to your overall look.

To Sum Up…

The first and most important step in wearing a beanie is choosing one that matches your face shape. This not only highlights your features but also balances out your face shape. Once you've found the right beanie, choose the best hairstyle depending on the length of your hair and if you plan on taking your beanie off. There are plenty of options for styling your hair whether it’s long or short, keeping in mind the overall vibe you want to project. If time and styling is limited, grab a more playful beanie that speaks for itself. Finish off your look by pairing it with a scarf and sunglasses, and voila! You're ready to rock your beanie and beauty while staying cozy in the cold weather months!

Written by Cooper cooper@hatattack.com

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