The knitted accessories saving us this winter
image via @arthurapparel/INSTAGRAM.
words by daisy henry
Beanies, balaclavas and bonnets galore.
Whether you’re in an old share house with minimal insulation, preparing for a cold commute to work or cycling through the city, winter dressing often requires a savvy amount of layering.
As expected, when the elements prove to be so unforgiving, fashion can fall to the wayside. It’s hard to maintain any semblance of personal style when you’re battling dark mornings and heavy downpours. Thermals, heat tech and puffer jackets are all in high rotation from the months of June to August.
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However, all is not completely lost. There’s an increasing number of locally based labels breaking up the ocean of black with playful knitted accessories. On the days when your outfit is concealed by a heavy coat, they’re a low-effort way to add a dose of excitement to your look.
Scarves, of course, are one option. Yet even within that category, there’s a buffet of options at your disposal – do you opt for a bright colour or pattern? Do you go thin and long, or thick and chunky? Fringed or not fringed? On top of that are the triangular-shaped styles, which you can tie into a French-style knot around your neck.
The options only multiply when you factor in headwear. Beyond beanies, balaclavas and headscarves don’t merely keep the crown of your head warm, but your ears, cheeks and neck as well.
With these fabrics so close to your face, it pays to be mindful, avoiding scratchy polyester and instead choosing soft wools like merinos and cashmere that are warming and delicate on your skin.
Below, we’ve curated a list of the pieces from local labels that are helping us make the most of cold-weather dressing.
Arthur Apparel
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One of our favourite pioneers of knitted headwear, independent label Arthur Apparel’s expressive accessories are a colourful antidote to your winter blues. Its most recent collection, Surface Study, features a range of bold, bright and playful pieces made from merino wool and cotton. Cosy and durable, its signature balaclava comes in both striped and single-tone colourways, with a slim neck and open face.
Francie Knitwear
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Crafted locally in Australia and New Zealand, Francie’s range of knitwear is classic, timeless and made from natural fibres. Alongside a range of clothing, the label has a range of accessories, including scarves, fingerless gloves and beanies. Its Daisy scarf, which comes in 10 colourways, can be worn in a multitude of ways, including around your neck or as a headscarf.
Bonnie Wroe
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New Zealand designer and artist Bonnie Wroe’s collection of knitted accessories are as soft as they look. Made from possum, each style is handmade by Bonnie and made-to-order, with a timeframe of three to four weeks. The only dilemma is which style to choose– the folded square-top Ted hat, classic balaclava or buttery soft Loop hat? For those in Melbourne, you can visit Fitzroy’s PDA Shop to try Bonnie’s pieces in person.
Wixii
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Family-run and independent, New Zealand label Wixii is known for its natural fibre clothing and curation of vintage styles. Among its accessories, you can find a selection of silk cashmere headbands, as well as hoods, scarves, capes and gloves.
Āhuru
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Ever since we profiled Natalie Robb’s (Ngāti Whakaue) knitwear label Āhuru earlier this year, we haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. Its debut collection, Heirloom, comprises button-up cardigans and vests, alongside a range of accessories. From its chocolate Zoe shawl to its homespun balaclavas and bonnet, each piece has been thoughtfully made in Aotearoa.
Sister Studios
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Sister Studios is a Melbourne-made label founded by Emma Cutri, known for its playful patterns and fun silhouettes. Year on year the brand has released an offering of knitted accessories come winter and this year is no exception. Choose between its Whimsy bonnet, featuring a crochet flower on the front and a metallic thread throughout, or its versatile, striped Wool Headscarf.
Friends with Frank
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Friends with Frank’s signature Yuki and Camilla Triangle scarves have been on our wish list for quite some time now. Small in size, they’re an effortless way to add a burst of colour (and warmth) to your outfit. Made from merino wool, you can choose from a selection of colourways and experiment with tying it around your neck, head or even waist.
Toorallie
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Toorallie has been making knitwear with wool sourced from Australian farms since 1991. With a penchant for bright, primary colours like poppy and ultraviolet, alongside its classic range of grey, navy and oat colourways, its accessories are made from soft, premium merino wool.
Monphell
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Made locally in Melbourne, Monphell is known for its playful and experimental take on headwear. Alongside its range of caps, you can find merino beanies, alpaca wool headpieces, pillbox hats and rabbit fur skull caps. Monphell’s mantra? The taller the better.
For more on staying warm in winter, try this.
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