Balaclava: Scandinavian it-girls adopt it as a warm and stylish alternative to the beanie this winter

The cold is setting in, and our favorite beanie is wobbling on its throne. On the cobblestones of Copenhagen, the chapka is seducing the girls of the North and shaking up the classic beanie. Here’s how to adopt it without losing style or comfort.

The Scandinavian chapka

Originating in the steppes but adopted in the North, the chapka is gaining ground. Its architecture wraps around forehead and ears. Scandinavian it-girls wore them all winter long, including at shows in Copenhagen. In comparison, a cap is slippery and less protective of the temples.

This piece adds relief to a simple silhouette. What’s more, it assumes a clean volume that balances out a long coat. We see it in faux fur, smooth leather or shearling. On the other hand, the beanie often requires a scarf for the same comfort.

On the practical side, the thick lining limits heat loss. Fold-away earflaps keep out damp wind. The tie under the chin prevents the piece from flying off. As a result, it stays on better than a cap in dry, windy weather.

“The chapka is a game-changer: immediate warmth and an assertive silhouette.

Materials, cuts and selection guidelines

Choosing the right material makes all the difference. For example, dense faux fur warms without weighing you down. Many models are now lined with recyclable sherpa. For the office, a matte version effortlessly replaces the everyday beanie.

Mango – Chapka: cocoon style, clean finish and soft lining. As a result, the look remains clean on a straight coat.
The beanie style is present in spirit, but the coverage is improving. What’s more, the price remains reasonable for a first attempt.

• Check that the earpieces hold their shape in the wind.
• Choose a soft, non-itchy lining.
• Loosely adjust leg under chin.
• Wedge the hairline two fingers above the eyebrows.
• Test with coat and scarf to avoid volume conflicts.

How to adopt it without losing your style

In the morning, we keep to our basics: jeans, sweater, long coat. The chapka adds a touch of volume to modernize the look. With an oversized blazer, it creates a casual contrast. In short, it’s a no-brainer for anyone who already wears a beanie on a daily basis.

Choose sober shades: black, beige, brown. This way, the piece fits in with the minimalist silhouettes of the North. However, a houndstooth pattern can make a statement with a short look. What’s more, tucking a few strands under the brim is reminiscent of the bonnet spirit, without overpowering.

Zara – Chapka: plush texture and flexible straps to modulate shape. Also, the placket adjusts according to the collar or scarf.
The nod to the beanie remains noticeable, but the look gains in presence. As a result, this piece works from morning to night.

Weather and maintenance

In wet weather, opt for water-repellent exteriors. This way, light rain won’t saturate the material. After use, air-dry away from a heat source. Machine-drying, on the other hand, weakens fibers and crushes volume.

For maintenance, a gentle brushing once a week is all that’s needed. Also, storage on a stand keeps the earflaps curved. A simple blast of steam puts the bristles back in place. Compared to the bonnet, the structure requires a little more care.

Trends, budget and alternatives

This season, the trend is towards assertive volumes. We see 3 key textures: shearling, faux fur and quilted nylon. In addition, short visors are back on some models. On the other hand, heavy embellishments are giving way to clean finishes.

Budget-wise, the offer ranges from entry-level to premium parts. You’ll also find recycled options to limit impact. When it comes to outfitting yourself, there are 2 ways to go: major brands and specialized labels. And if your heart’s in the right place, alternate with a thin hat on milder days.

A final point of reference: fit. Many models now feature an adjustable strap. Aim for a comfortable fit around 56-58 cm of head circumference, depending on your morphology. This way, the piece remains stable without marking the temples.

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