Fashion

There’s a definite nip in the air and a decidedly satisfying crunch underfoot, and you’ll rarely see me without a cup of tea in hand.   I’m no fortune teller but I would say it’s pretty much time to dig out hats and scarfs and other cold weather gear in anticipation of the shifting seasons.

This year I’m digging out my old favourites, but if you’re in need of something new then I’ve rounded up four of my favourite stylish ethical hat brands that will keep you cosy and looking sharp over the coming months.  

Finisterre

Finisterre, a B Corp certified business, make cosy, functional and stylish knitwear, including ethical hats, made from 100% natural fibres that are built to last.

I have a couple of pieces that were gifted to me two years ago that still look as good as new, despite being worn pretty much every day over two winters.  Should they ever need repair, it’s reassuring to know that Finisterre offers a repair service, whereby Finisterre’s repair gurus – Annie, Amy, and Ally – will work their magic, making your gear look like new.

Gudrun Sjoden

Like the feel and the cosy factor of cashmere, but lack the budget?  Me too, my friend, me too.  Thankfully, ethical pioneers Gudrun Sjoden sell beautifully coloured recycled cashmere hats for £29, meaning you can enjoy the luxury look for less.  

Hilary Grant

Orkney based Hilary Grant design beautiful knitwear which is as Scottish as you can get.  Her products are produced from mulesing-free lambswool sourced from the Scottish Borders.  The fibres are then spun and dyed on the east coast of Scotland, before Hilary and her team works their magic in Orkney.  

Scarves, hats, gloves, and blankets are Hilary’s speciality, in a range of stunning patterns and colourways, all in the softest lambswool.  Throw one of her hats or scarves on and I’ll swear you’ll never want to take it off!

Wonky Woolies

Wonky Woolies are a new company to me, specialising in the highest quality knitted bobble hats, scarves and infinity bands, all of which are designed, knitted and hand finished in their Scottish Borders workshop.  From funky patterns to classic argyle patterns, there’s something for everyone.  

Some products are made from acrylic wool, but a high proportion are made from natural fibres – so do keep that in mind when you are browsing if 100% natural fibres are important to you.  

If you come across any other ethical hats, then as always let me know in the comments below!  

ps: here’s a handy guide on how to wash wool so you can give your ethical hats the best possible treatment!

pps: I have refrained from making any terrible hat puns in this article.  Anyone who knows me will know how difficult this has been for me, so please send your support in this difficult time!