Bad hair days are long gone with a quick cover up that works just as well as an accessory. Snood hats are a European-influenced cap, offering plenty of cold-weather coziness as you get through those brisk days ahead. Originally made as a ‘net’ to cover hair and deck it out with a few accessories (see picture), the modernized version leans more toward a beret and wrap style instead. Before rushing off to wrap up your coiff with this vintage-inspired hat, continue over to the jump some history and how to wear.

The Snood actually made its debut in the early 1930s, a time when the Victorian revival was in full swing and crochet and knitting were activities du jour for most ladies. As scarves became more practical during the Second World War, hats slowly disappeared and were only worn at special occasions such as weddings and social events. Since most women favored tying a headscarf around their head to keep their mane under control (no sign of super-hold hairspray back then), designers began to create beautiful scarves as well as the very-flattering Snood. It’s a mix of a turban, beret, hood, and ‘net’ that was once trimmed with bows and ribbons.

Today, the Snood can be found in a range of knitted and crocheted versions that fit more like a cap than a complete head covering or hood. The Bag Lady offers one point of view on the latest trend wih the entry Snood: The Latest Accessory Must Have?

And how to wear this new addition to the hat closet? The best hairstyle for this is the short bob, since the old-fashioned net isn’t compatible with the sleek silhouettes this season. Wear it in place of a beret or newspaper boy cap, with the knot to the side. It may not be the hottest trend of the season, but it’s definitely appearing in many vintage-inspired ensembles around the city.

Photo courtesy of Snoods.com