The new rules for buying winter scarves, hats and gloves
It’s that time of year, when small talk usually involves some kind of conversation about how cold we are, because complaining about the weather is a national pastime.
So let’s hear it for winter accessories, which are reliable – and relatively affordable – seasonal joy-bringers. Even the most tired winter coat can be given fresh life teamed with a cosy snood, cashmere triangle scarf or pleasingly childlike mittens. They make great gifts too, and there’s little risk of getting the size wrong.
Not all knitwear is created equal though, so there are some guidelines. Go too cheap and you may find it’s made of acrylic or polyester blends, which aren’t breathable and can make you feel sweaty. ‘Always read the composition label. My father drilled it into me and I do it with everything I buy,’ says cashmere designer Rosie Sugden.
Synthetic fabrics may also not keep you as warm, so stick to natural fibres. ‘Choose cashmere or wool,’ says Katie Laird, creative director at Scottish cashmere brand Kiltane, ‘and, where possible, hand-finished, so you can be assured time and care have been put into the creation.’
Ensure it works well with your outerwear, too. This season’s scarves are trophy pieces to wear over the top, not tucked away. ‘Think about your most worn winter coats and what would best pair with them,’ says Sugden. ‘Sometimes that’s a pop of colour, other times it might be something more classic.’
Quality knitwear also provides an opportunity to support British makers, she adds: ‘I really like to see that [knitwear] has been made locally in the UK or Ireland. There is such a rich history in textile manufacturing in both countries so you know you are buying something well-made that should last a lifetime.’
Of course, this all depends on your taking good care of your knitwear: accessories like gloves and hats don’t require much washing but if you must, do it by hand. Moths are the other major hazard, so never let your guard down – stow a bag of lavender or some cedar balls in your knitwear drawer.
Nail your winter accessory wardrobe and you’ll be both warm and stylish. It still leaves us with a problem though – what are we going to talk about now?
Shopping by Sophie Tobin
