When people think of the beanie, they tend to put it into one of two categories: the '90s skater look popularized by icons like Avril Lavigne, or the cold-weather staple you might throw on to keep your head warm. But beanies are so much more. Street style made a major resurgence in the last couple of years, with streetwear included in major fashion events. Regardless of its status as a fashion item, the beanie can either elevate a look or make it more casual, meaning it works both as a functional staple and a nice way to add balance and dimension to your look.

If you're still stumped, or just searching for outfit inspiration on exactly how to pull off a beanie, keep scrolling for the perfect looks that work any time of the year. 

For a Sporty Vibe

This photo was taken at Paris Fashion Week—so, definitively not a sports event. But the sporty logo beanie is a surprising pick for an otherwise chic outfit featuring chunky loafers and an animal-print trench. The beanie adds a fun, slightly counterintuitive dimension—even better if you match with a friend!

As a Color Moment

If your outfit is mostly neutral colors and it just needs a little…something, the beanie is the perfect choice. Here, the orange of the beanie matches the orange in the graphic tee (and it's a near-match with the fluffy tan coat). It makes the whole look feel put together.

For Some Fluff

Fluffy, teddy bear-esque textures are having a moment in fall-winter trends, and a beanie is a nice way to dip a toe in without feeling overwhelmed by the texture. A thicker beanie also feels more substantial and works well for people with a smaller head circumference.

As Added Texture

Here, the look is mostly black and dark items, but the visual interest comes through the difference in textures: cotton cargo pants, woven bag, wool blazer, and cashmere beanie for some softness. When in doubt, cashmere or alpaca adds some luxe to an outfit.

With an Identifiable Logo

If you love logos, a beanie's a fun way to show off a label you're loving right now. And even if you don't love them all over your clothes, wearing a beanie with a logo on it is a trendy and fun way to show your style vibes.

As a Neutral

What's amazing about this outfit is that every single item except the beanie is filled with pattern and personality. A cream bag and matching white beanie ground a look with some simplicity, letting the louder patterns do all the talking.

With Tassels or Straps

Beyond the obvious fact that long tassels or laces are a fun add-on to a simple beanie, you can also use the dimension as a part of your overall look. Matching the beanie to the coat—and to the laces of a fashion sneaker—makes the whole look seem cohesive.

As a Touch of Whimsy

Here it looks less "youthful" and more "fun" thanks to a matching bralette, sunglasses, and bag (in the very on-trend red color), but the look could be just as effective with a white or black beanie that complements a more neutral ensemble.

For Dressing Down

When it's business workwear that needs an extra item to make it look fashion-forward, a beanie is the right pick. With a sweater, structured denim, and tie, the beanie brings back some of that more casual, streetwear vibe you might be looking for. Here, the white also matches the North Face jacket logo and Adidas sneakers.

For Dressing Up

If you think a beanie can't bring a level of chic to an outfit, think again. Here, every item is casual and funky, from the leg warmers to the patterned skirt and red jersey, so the doily-style lace beanie adds some flounce and femininity. Who knew?

With Playful Vibes

An all-knit outfit, starting with the striped-pink beanie and going all the way down to the knit socks? Yes, it's possible, and very, very fun. This is an example of going all-in on a style or trend, embracing a single texture and varying up the color and chunkiness. If you just want a single knit item, start with a fun beanie color to add a little joy.