How to Wear a Beanie – “I put my beanie to charge”

In the era of smart wearables, the classic beanie has received a functional upgrade. Gone are the days when beanies were just about keeping your ears warm. Today, they come equipped with built-in Bluetooth headphones, allowing you to enjoy your favorite tunes while staying cozy. But before you step out the door with your playlist, you need to ensure your beanie is charged.

“I put my beanie to charge” might sound like a line from a futuristic novel, but it’s a simple reality with the Bluetooth Beanie. This type of beanie comes with a built-in battery that powers the headphones, so you can wirelessly connect to your smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. To keep the music going, you’ll need to charge your beanie using the provided USB cable, plugging it into a computer or a USB wall charger, just like you would with your phone or other rechargeable gadgets.

Once fully charged, your beanie is not only a stylish accessory but also a practical one, keeping you warm and entertained with music or podcasts. Plus, with features like a built-in microphone, you can even take calls without exposing your ears to the cold or fumbling with your phone.

Check the battery life before you head out, so you’re not left in the silence halfway through your day. With your beanie charged, you’re ready to enjoy the perfect blend of fashion, comfort, and technology.

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Beanies are not only super cute accessories, they’re also entirely functional. They can keep your head warm while making sure you’re in line with the latest trends (that’s the goal anyways!).

But it’s totally understandable that figuring out the right way to wear a beanie — at least the right way for you — can be tricky. If you’re not careful, you can definitely end up looking like you’ve just rolled out of bed, I would know, I’ve been there!

So, let’s work through the kinks of the best ways to to wear a beanie like a pro (and practical) fashionista. 

Have in mind that these tips are just guidelines, and personal style should always be your compass when it comes to fashion.

How to Wear A Beanie for Women

The classic beanie look is to just pull it straight down over your head, covering your ears. This is the best way to keep your ears warm in cold weather. 

With a slouchy beanie you might pull it higher on your forehead so some hair peeks out across your hairline, this creates a more laid back look and is good if the weather is a bit warmer. 

To ensure you look stylish when wearing a beanie, consider the following tips.

#1. Choose the Right Fit

A beanie that is too tight might give you an unflattering ‘egghead’ look, while one that’s too loose could slip off or look sloppy. Aim for a snug, comfortable fit that keeps the beanie securely in place without squeezing your head.

#2. Consider Your Face Shape

Different styles of beanies can complement different face shapes. For example, if you have a round face, a beanie with a cuff can add some height and elongate your face. If you have a longer face, a slouchy beanie might work better for you.

#3. Wear It Properly

The way you position your beanie can make a big difference. It should sit comfortably above your eyebrows and cover your ears. If you’re wearing a cuffed beanie, the fold should not be too large, and the beanie should not be sitting too high on your head.

#4. Pair with the Right Outfit

Beanies tend to give off a casual, laid-back vibe, so they work best with informal attire. Pair your beanie with a relaxed sweater and jeans or other casual wear. However, fashion is about personal expression, so feel free to experiment with different combinations that feel right for you.

#5. Confidence is Key

As with any accessory, wearing it with confidence goes a long way. If you feel good in your beanie, it’s likely you’ll look good too.

Note: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means I will receive a commission if you order a product through one of my links. I only recommend products I believe in and use myself. 

Common Beanie Wearing Problems and How to Avoid Them 

While beanies are a popular and stylish accessory, especially during the colder months, there are a few potential issues that can affect your overall look when wearing one.

#1. Hair Flattening 

Beanies can flatten your hair, leaving it looking limp and lifeless once the beanie is removed. This is often referred to as “hat hair.” 

To avoid hair flattening, you can follow these tips:

1. Before putting on your beanie, use a volumizing mousse or spray on your hair. This helps to create a buffer between your hair and the hat and can make it easier to revive your hairstyle later.
   
2. Choose a beanie that’s not too tight. A looser fit will put less pressure on your hair, reducing the likelihood of it getting flattened.
   
3. Applying dry shampoo can add texture and volume to your hair, helping to combat the flattening effect of a beanie.
   
4. Limit the amount of time you wear your beanie continuously. Giving your hair a break can help prevent it from setting into a flattened shape.
   
5. Once you take off your beanie, give your hair a quick fluff with your fingers or flip your head upside down and tousle your hair to revive its shape.
   
6. Avoid wearing a beanie when your hair is wet, as this will almost certainly guarantee a flat look once the beanie comes off. Wet hair is more susceptible to taking the shape it dries in, so it’s best to make sure your hair is completely dry before putting on a beanie.
   

#2. Static and Frizz 

The friction between your hair and the fabric of the beanie can cause static electricity, leading to frizzy hair when you take the beanie off.

To combat static and frizz when wearing a beanie, it’s helpful to choose beanies made from natural fibers like cotton or wool because they are less likely to generate static compared to synthetic materials. Using a wooden comb rather than a plastic one can also help to reduce static.

This lovely beanie that I recently came across is made from the softest cashmere. It’s perfect for the colder months. It’s available at Macy’s. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or searching for a thoughtful gift, this cashmere beanie is a stylish choice that combines comfort with elegance.

#3. Mismatch with Outfit

A beanie might not always align with your overall attire, especially if it’s a formal or business setting. Beanies are generally considered casual wear, so pairing one with a suit or formal dress can look out of place.

#4. Unflattering Shape

Depending on the type and fit of the beanie, it can sometimes give an unflattering silhouette to your head. For example, a beanie that is too tight might accentuate the shape of your head in an undesirable way, while one that is too loose might look sloppy.

#5. Overheating

If you’re indoors or in a warm environment, wearing a beanie for an extended period can cause you to overheat, which might be uncomfortable and could cause sweating.

#6. Skin Irritation

Some materials used in beanies, like wool, can irritate the skin, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.

#7. Clashing Colors or Patterns

A beanie with a bold pattern or color might clash with other patterns or colors in your outfit, which can create a discordant look.

#8. Size and Fit Issues

A beanie that’s too small can feel constricting and uncomfortable, while one that’s too large can slip off easily or look unflattering.

To mitigate these issues, consider choosing a beanie made from non-static materials, ensure it fits well, and select a style and color that complements your wardrobe and the occasion. 

The Frustrating Issue of a Slipping Beanie

That’s a common issue with beanies. This issue is particularly frustrating for me because it makes me feel self-conscious about my appearance. 

On a recent trip to Canada, I was greeted by cold, snowy,  windy weather. But I’d forgotten to pack a beanie—a real sin in the face of Canadian winter. So, I did what any sensible traveler would do: I darted into the first store I found and grabbed a beanie off the rack. 

The beanie was a lifesaver against the biting wind but it kept creeping upward, inch by inch, as if it had a mind of its own. My ears, once sheltered, were repeatedly exposed to the cold as the beanie sought refuge atop my head.

So, if the beanie isn’t sitting as intended, it can indeed disrupt the look you’re going for.

When a beanie moves up on the head, it can create a few style concerns:

1. The primary function of a beanie is to keep your head and ears warm. When it slides up, it leaves your ears exposed to the cold, defeating its purpose and potentially leading to discomfort.
   
2. A beanie that doesn’t stay put can bunch up on top of the head, creating an unflattering silhouette. Instead of a sleek or cozy look, the beanie might give a comical or awkward appearance.
   
3. If you’re constantly having to pull your beanie down to cover your ears, it can become a nuisance. Not only is it inconvenient, but the action of readjusting can also detract from a put-together appearance.
   
4. Beanies contribute to the overall style of an outfit, and when they don’t sit right, they can make an otherwise well-thought-out ensemble look careless or unfinished.
   

So, what are some tips to prevent a beanie from sliding up and uncovering your ears?

1. Make sure your beanie is the correct size for your head. It should fit snugly but comfortably, without being too tight or too loose.
   
2. Pull the beanie down so that it covers your ears and sits just above your eyebrows. A beanie that’s worn too high on the forehead is more likely to slide up.
   
3. Cuffed beanies tend to stay in place better than uncuffed styles.
   
4. Some materials are more slippery than others. Beanies made with a blend of wool and acrylic or those with a fleece lining may stay put better than those made of pure synthetic materials.

Understanding Beanies

Before we start to dive into the ways you can wear a beanie, let’s have a look first at some types of beanies out there. 

Slouchy Beanies

Slouchy beanies sit snug around your ears but have a lot of extra fabric allowing them to hang loose off the back of your head. This style gives a casual and relaxed look. Slouchy beanies are also well-loved for their extreme level of comfort. 

Fitted Beanies

Fitted beanies stay snug around your entire head. They sit nicely across your forehead and they have almost no extra material at the top of your head. Beanies are generally a casual element to add to an outfit, but fitted beanies are as sleek and polished as they come. Fitted beanies also tend to provide more warmth thanks to the material being in close contact with your skin. 

The fun of all of this though is that you can even wear a fitted beanie in a slouchy style! 

Cuffed Beanies

Cuffed beanies have a layer of folded material at the bottom. They may be more fitted or slouchy at the top, but the folded layer adds an extra snugness and extra warmth around your ears. These are a great choice for very cold days. 

Beanies with LED lights

LED Light Up Hat Beanie 

I recently bought a Christmas beanie that’s a bit special—it’s got LED lights! It’s not just cozy, it’s also a fun to wear. The cuff has “Let It Snow” written on it. It’s like wearing a bit of the holiday spirit right on my head.

6 LED lights make you like the human disco ball at any festive gathering. It’s a one-size-fits-most beanie. The description says it’s great for both the indoors and the outdoors, but I wouldn’t wear it indoors as it’s quite warm. 

Keep this electric headwear away from the washing machine unless you want a less illuminating experience. The beanie’s battery life is really long, lasting over 36 hours. Well, it may even become the best buddy for your ugly Christmas sweater. 

LED Beanie

I also bought an LED beanie that’s really practical for the shorter days of winter. This one isn’t Christmas-themed but it has a very bright light at the front. It’s super useful when it gets dark early, whether I’m out for a walk with the dogs or need to find something in a dimly lit area. It’s like having a headlamp built into my hat, keeping my hands free and my path well-lit. 

It’s a one-size-fits-all headwear that not only keeps your head and ears warm but also lights up your path with a rechargeable LED light. The light is capable of providing 120 lumens for up to 4 hours of continuous use or 68 hours intermittently, making it perfect for outdoor activities like jogging, camping, or early morning dog walking. The beanie is washable once you remove the LED unit, and it charges via a standard USB port. This beanie can be an ideal gift for those who value comfort and practicality in their outdoor gear.

Beanie Materials

There are a few materials which you’ll see used for beanies. Which one will suit you best depends mostly on the weather you’re looking to combat, as well as which material you find the most comfortable. 

Wool beanies are often the warmest option. They are made for cold weather and provide a high level of natural insulation. Unfortunately, wool does bother some people who find it itchy, especially across their ears and forehead.

Cotton beanies are very breathable and often lightweight, they are not as warm as wool beanies, but this makes them a great choice for more mild weather. 

A beanie made from acrylics will likely be your most affordable option. Generally though, acrylics may be not so warm and the fabric may wear down fairly quickly. You may though be able to find blends — an acrylic with a bit of wool will keep price down while increasing quality and warmth. 

Knitted vs sewn beanies

Knitted and sewn beanies differ in their construction, material, and often in the way they fit and feel when worn.

Knitted Beanies are traditionally made by interlocking loops of yarn with knitting needles or a knitting machine. This process creates a stretchy, textured fabric that can comfortably conform to the shape of your head. Knitted beanies are often associated with warmth and can be found in various patterns, from simple knit and purl stitches to complex cable knits. 

They are typically thicker and provide excellent insulation, which is ideal for colder weather. The stretchiness of knitted beanies allows them to fit practically any head sizes, but they can lose their shape over time if overstretched.

Sewn Beanies, on the other hand, are made from cut fabric pieces that are sewn together, usually with a sewing machine. The fabric used for sewn beanies can include knit fabric, but also stretchy woven fabrics, often with elastane added for stretch. 

Sewn beanies can have a more structured look compared to their knitted counterparts and can come in a variety of styles. They might not be as stretchy as knitted beanies, depending on the fabric used, but they can offer a snug fit and maintain their shape better over time. They are often lighter and less bulky, and suitable for a range of weather conditions, not just the cold.

In terms of wearing, the difference you’ll notice between knitted and sewn beanies is primarily in the fit and feel. Knitted beanies generally offer a more forgiving fit due to their stretch and can feel cozier and warmer. Sewn beanies might feel lighter and fit more closely to the head, offering a sleeker look. The choice between a knitted or sewn beanie will depend on personal preference, the climate you’re in, and the style you’re aiming for.

When considering the different types of beanies and their materials, it’s also important to keep in mind how they complement your outfit and the level of warmth you require. Both knitted and sewn beanies can be stylish and functional additions to your wardrobe.

I’ve always enjoyed adding a bit of myself into what I wear, which is why I love sewing my own beanies. There’s something special about creating an accessory that’s both functional and expressive of my style. I’ve put together a detailed tutorial on my site on how to sew a beanie without a pattern. It’s a straightforward guide that I hope will inspire you to try making one yourself. The result is truly nice – a unique piece that you can say was made by you, for you.

✅ Related article: How to sew a beanie hat – a new easy way

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Of course, the type that’s going to work best for you will depend on what your hair situation is, so let’s look at ways to wear a beanie with different hair styles. 

How to Wear a Beanie With a Bun

You might be thinking that a bun is going to get in the way of your beanie, but if that’s your preferred hairstyle, it’s definitely possible to make it work with a beanie. You could go for a really high top knot which would sit in the extra fabric at the top of your beanie. This works nicely with a slouchy beanie that has a lot of space to house your hair. But it can also work with more fitted beanies that still have a bit of extra fabric to play around with.

Alternatively, you can do a really low bun that sits right at the nape of your neck below the back of the beanie. This might be a bit awkward if you have a jacket with a high neck or a big hood — but don’t be afraid to play around with it and work it into your outfit.

How to Wear a Beanie With a Ponytail

You can also play around with a ponytail in more or less the same way as a bun. Either do a high pony which you can tuck fully under your beanie (or maybe if you have really long hair a bit of it will be poking out the bottom). Or you could do a really low pony that sits at the nape of your neck and hangs down your back. 

Another option is a specialized beanie that is made with a hole in the top so your ponytail can hang loose. 

How to Wear a Beanie With Your Hair Down

Wearing your beanie over your loose hair is probably the most common way to style a beanie for women. With your hair down, you won’t have to worry about any lumps or bumps or uncomfortable tightness. 

By leaving your hair down you have the option to do all of the same styling you normally would — whether you want to put some loose waves in or straighten your hair, it will all work really well once you have a beanie over top.

How to Wear a Beanie With Braids 

Braids are a really nice way to have your hair visible and out of the way of the beanie, but more tamed than if it’s totally loose. 

You could opt for a single ponytail braid that pokes out the back. But a really good way to not affect the fit of your beanie is to do two pigtail braids starting really low behind your ears. This means that all of the hair that’s actually on your head, sitting under the beanie, will be flat and not mess with the fit at all.

Here’s a really nice laid back braid style specifically to be worn with a beanie: 

Wearing a Beanie with Different Hair Lengths

Since beanies are such versatile accessories they can be worn with any hair length. 

How to Wear a Beanie With Short Hair

If you have short hair, you could wear your beanie straight down over your head so all of your hair is tucked neatly away and out of sight. But you might want to leave some strands out, so pull the beanie slightly back away from your forehead and pull a small chunk of hair out from under the beanie on both sides creating a frame for your face.

How to Wear a Beanie With Long Hair and Medium Hair

Generally speaking when it comes to styling a beanie, both medium and long hair behave the same. You could tuck your hair back behind your ears and use the beanie to help keep it there. This leaves your face free. If you want more elements around your face, let your hair come forward, hanging straight down all the way around your head. Whichever way you choose, the beanie is a really good assistant to help you keep your long hair in place. Just remember that when you take your beanie off you might end up with a bit of static — and if this is a problem you’re often facing, aim for 100% cotton beanies to hopefully combat it.

Wearing a Beanie with Different Hair Types

In addition to its length and how you choose to style it, the type of hair you have can make all the difference when for your beanie look. Let’s talk about some tips for wearing a beanie with different hair types:

How to Wear a Beanie With Curly Hair

One of the biggest concerns wearing a beanie for those with curly hair is that the beanie will flatten your curls. The best way to work around this is to look for a beanie with a slightly looser fit, especially around the forehead. You can also try wearing your beanie a bit further back, so it sits more on the crown of your head rather than over your forehead. This should keep your curls from getting super squished.

Another option is to style your hair in a way that would preserve your curls. Maybe wrapping them up in a loose bun at the nape of your neck so they barely even come into contact with the beanie.

How to Wear a Beanie With Bangs

With bangs you can choose if you want to pull the beanie a little bit lower so your bangs are totally hidden, or you could leave it a bit further back on your head so your bangs stick out a bit. If you have enough length on them, you could go for a side-swept style with your bangs and then put the beanie on over that. 

Accessorizing with Beanies

Beanies are themselves an accessory, but that doesn’t mean you can’t accessorize your accessory! Here are some tips on what to pair with a beanie: 

How to Wear a Beanie with Glasses

If you regularly wear glasses, you may be finding that the beanie interferes with the back of your glasses where they wrap around your ear. While you do have the option to wear your glasses on top of the beanie, this could risk bending their sides so be careful with that. Alternatively, go for a beanie with a loose fitted band so you can wear it down around your ears with your glasses inside. The looser fit will ensure you’re not putting too much pressure on your ears or the sides of your head. 

How to Wear Headphones with a Beanie

There are two main types of headphones — over the ear and earbuds. Both of these can be worn easily with beanies both comfortably and stylishly.

With over the ear headphones it’s best to put the headphones over your beanie. You can also have a lot of fun matching or contrasting the color of your beanie with the color of your headphones. 

Earbuds can really easily be worn under your beanie, but aim to grab one that’s a bit on the looser side so you don’t have pressure on the earbuds and on your ears. 

Another interesting option is to try out a beanie with built-in headphones (yes, they exist!). Typically these beanies have earbuds sewn into the fabric, so you can listen to music without having to add a separate accessory. 

Other Accessories to Wear with a Beanie

Beanies can be worn with so many different things to create lots of fun, cozy looks. Here are a few more ideas:

• Scarves: Pair a beanie with a scarf for a cozy winter look that will keep you extra warm.
• Gloves: Wear gloves that match (or contrast) your beanie for a coordinated look.
• Earrings: You can put on a pair of big statement earrings that come below your beanie to add some flash to your outfit. 

When it comes to accessorizing there are never any firm rules. Experiment with different combinations and see what is vibing for you.

Specific Beanie Brands

There are loads of different brands to choose from when selecting your next beanie. But there are definitely a few favorites that stand out for both their quality and style. 

Carhartt

It pretty likely that you’ve heard of Carhartt — the brand is known for its quality workwear. But they also do some really nice, durable everyday wear including beanies. Carhartt beanies are really good for cold weather and outdoor activities. They come in a variety of colors and styles, including cuffed and slouchy — if you’re wondering how to wear a Carhartt beanie just follow the tips in this guide.

The North Face

The North Face is another well known brand that makes high-quality outdoor gear which performs well in cold and inclement weather — their beanies are no exception. These beanies are great for skiing, snowboarding, or other winter sports. Check out their classic beanie or the earflap beanie.

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From the type of beanie to the way you style it, there is a whole lot to think about when deciding how to wear this versatile accessory. But whether you’re looking for a durable beanie to keep you warm for outdoor activities and you’re totally not worried about how you look, or you want to add a cute element to your stylish winter get up, there are plenty of options of beanies to choose from.

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Did you find this tutorial helpful? If so, save this pin (see below) on your sewing board so you can come to the article later when you need this information on stay stitching , and follow me on Pinterest for more tips, tutorials, and inspiration!

Did you find this guide on how to wear a beanie useful? If yes, why not save this pin to your Pinterest board? That way, you can easily return to the article whenever you need a refresher on beanie styles. And for an ongoing stream of handy tips, tutorials, and all sorts of creative inspiration, make sure to follow me on Pinterest.