How to style a snood, winter's unexpected ‘it girl’ accessory

Your nana called, she wants her style back.
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As someone wise once said, “There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” And the snood is the season's chic answer to dressing suitably for all of the yuckiest weather that the UK has to offer.

The snood, or bonnet or hood, is the unexpected style star of the season. On one hand, this knit head covering is practical, covering your painstakingly styled hair and protecting it from the elements – we all remember that scene in Bridget Jones when her headscarf flies away during a drive in a convertible leaving her looking like she walked through a hedge backwards. On the other hand, it also looks surprisingly chic. Throw on a knit snood, and all of a sudden, you're channelling a mysterious heroine in a Russian novel. Impeccable winter vibes if you ask me.

Chances are, you've already spotted plenty of It-girls walking the streets, protected from the wind, rain and even snow in their sensible, chic snoods. But before you join the club, you're also probably wondering how to style a snood.

There's no denying that the snood is a statement. So, you're going to want to lean in and style in a way that feels intentional. Here are a few ideas to get you started…

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How to style a snood over a cap

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For that model off-duty look, try wearing your snood over a cap. This I-just-threw-another-layer-on-and-wound-up-looking-effortlessly-chic look never fails to hit the stop. Plus, it will give you an added layer of protection from the festive winds and rains. Style with sporty clothes for a a truly understated look, or, pair with a structured blazer and play with mismatched styles for some added interest.

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Sweetie Bonnet

How to style a snood as a a triangle scarf

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Dakota Johnson just nailed this look. After the silk triangle scarf enjoyed a moment this summer and autumn, the knitted triangle scarf is a natural successor for the colder winter months. Tie a grey or brown knit scarf around your shoulders over a thick black coat and when the winds pick up, lift it up around your head. Et voila.

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Mohair-Blend Jumper

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How to style a snood with lots of colour

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The British winter is decidedly dreary, isn't it? Instead of leaning into the greys and muddy browns that define the season, rage against the grim weather with an explosion of colour into your wardrobe. Dopamine dressing will never be out of style. A snood is a great way to add a bold pop of colour to your look – and adding a few other bright pieces can add to the effect.

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Wide-Leg Jeans

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Bali True North Faux Fur Coat

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Chunky Collar Knitted Jacket

How to style a snood as the only pop of colour

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If you're craving some bright, sunshine-y colour but aren't ready to commit to a neon green coat or Barbie pink shoes, a bold, colourful snood is a great middle ground. This way, you can keep your elegant neutral basics while still adding a little fun to your look.

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UO Clover Fluffy Knit Hood

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George Wrap Coat

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Cable-Knit Wool-Cashmere Jumper

How to style a snood with shades of neutral

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Then again, perhaps you're a minimalist girlie through and through. If your favourite brands include The Row, Arket and Gwyneth Paltrow's new Gwyn, stick to your tried and tested neutrals. A beige jumper, a chocolate brown coat, a brown suede skirt and a cosy neutral snood will see you through the winter in style.

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Hampton Knitted Cardigan

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Voluminous Belted Wool Coat

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Press-Crease Trousers

How to style a snood with black on black

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For a gothic spin on the snood look, layer black on black on black. An all-black ensemble finished off with a black snood is an elevated Addams Family look that will see you transitioning seamlessly from day to night. Plus, your black snood will go with everything else you own if you choose to wear it again with a different look.

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Tied Knit Bonnet

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Shirr Enough Backpack Puffer

How to style a snood with matching monochrome with a fringe

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Make a statement by going matchy matchy with your snood look. Commit to an intentional colour moment by matching a colourful hood to a coat and bots of the same colour. This playful, retro look works particularly well with a strong blunt fringe. Add a pair of oversized shades to finish off the look.

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Square-Frame Sunglasses

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Turtleneck Jumper

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Frye Campus 14L Boots

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