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May 27, 2023

15 Stylish Balaclava Masks to Keep Your Face Warm 2023

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. The balaclava is the trendiest accessory on the streets nowadays—a relief,

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The balaclava is the trendiest accessory on the streets nowadays—a relief, as they keep your face warm and protected during any weather.

From cashmere knits with poufs to punchy bright patterns to add some pizzazz to your winter drearies, the first wildly popular accessory trend of the year is the balaclava. If the word is unfamiliar to you, let us let you in on the magic: it's a hybrid accessory, one part cap, one part collar, knitted together to provide you with optimal warmth.

In the full swing of winter, the balaclava fulfills its raison d’être to a tee—it's comfortable, toasty, and easy to throw on, whether you're hitting the slopes or your face is freezing during your morning venture out to walk your dog. While the cold weather accoutrement is by no means new, in the past few months it's gotten a fashionable revival beyond the ski season, appearing on the likes of influencers and everyday stylish citizens venturing out into the metropolitan elements otherwise known as New York in January. Get ahead of the trend with the best balaclavas to buy and wear until the temps finally reach 50 again.

MORE: Stylish Apres-Ski Boots for Your Next Winter Adventure

Enter: A sporty option that is multifunctional and insulated. Translation? You'll find you can use this for your OOTD and for your look when you hit the slopes.

MORE: What to Wear Skiing This Season

Oh-so soft and sustainably made in a second generation family-run workshop in Lima, this option is perfect for the neutral-heavy wardobe because the subtle marl of the knit adds texture to your overall look.

Candy confection meets comfortable practicality with Clare V's take on the balaclava.

Not only is the Pangaia's take on the balaclava made of recycled cashmere, but its genderless construction and versatility make it a winter must-have.

Fans of Perfect Moment will recognized the brand's signature North Star emblem, which offers the perfect complement to the sporty feel of this face mask.

For those who aren't looking for a balaclava that covers the entire face, look no further than this option by ARCH4.

Colorful and cute is the name of Kule's game with this peppy option—the winter blues don't stand a chance.

When in doubt, a dash of neon can brighten any dreary wintery-mix-kind-of-day. This cashmere version from Gigi Hadid's new knitwear brand is sure to entice.

Take your balaclava to the next level with an option that also doubles as a ballet shrug.

A chunky balaclava that extends down to your chest ensures that absolutely no bare skin is vulnerable.

Maybe you're not ready to fully commit and would rather your mask is more hood than it is hat and neck guard. Well, this is your answer.

Unsure of how much coverage you'd like? Ease into the balaclava with a two-toned, two piece set from Ukranian-based Ruslan Baginsky that allows you to experiment. The top half is made of 50% merino wool and 50% polyacrylic, while the bottom is 70% polyacrylic, 20% merino wool, and 10% polyamide. Best of both worlds, indeed.

Stay toasty with this 100 percent wool cable knit balaclava—and red is always your color.

A hat or a balaclava...why not both? This built-in visor is sure to make a statement.

The balaclava was popularized as most winter fashions are—on the slopes. After all, it's your first layer of defense against those biting mountain winds. Pay homage to the origins, and delight on the black diamonds, with this built-in balaclava in your ski layer.

Lovingly and sustainably crafted in Southern California, this oh-so-neutral balaclava from Janessa Leone will effortlessly blend with any look.

As the deputy digital lifestyle director at Town & Country, Roxanne Adamiyatt covers fashion, beauty, wellness, design and travel.

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