Sophisticated yet garish.

Beanie by Atlantis Headwear. 60/40 Polylana® fiber/acrylic, product traceability via QR code label, Global Recycled Standard, 8 1/2"

About Beanies

Before the 20th century, the traditional use of beanie-type caps was simple: keeping the head warm in cold weather. Because of its essential function, hats in this style can be found independently in many regions with a cool climate throughout history. In fact, even the vikings wore knit caps. Starting in the 1700s, wool knit caps were popular among fisherman, hunters, and other outdoor-workers.

Speculation still exists about how the beanie cap got its name. Most theories suggest that the beanie cap was named after the head itself, which was often referred to as a “bean” in the early 1900’s. Another theory suggests the name “beanie” originated from the top button that originally secured the gathered fabric together, which was about the size of a bean.

In the early 1900’s beanies were often worn by blue collar laborers, which included welders, mechanics, and other tradesmen. Beanies kept hair from getting in the worker’s face and offered sun protection for the scalp and ears without getting in the way. Some beanie designs did come equipped with a small, 1 inch deep brim addition. Interestingly enough, these brimmed beanies were the starting point for the modern baseball cap we know today.

From the 1960s onward, the beanie cap increased in popularity. Marvin Gaye's signature red beanie led to a beanie-boom in the 1970s. Jack Nicholson's black knit cap in 1975's "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" also added to the beanie hat's appeal. Beanies picked up more traction as a fashion accessory in the 1990s; they were often worn in grunge and skateboard culture.

Today, beanies have become a staple for just about any fashion style, winter weather apparel, and a way to show off your individuality with various colors, logos, and your fave team emblems. For those with hair loss from chemo, alopecia, aging, and other reasons, beanies are a great everyday option; they're soft against the head, provide warmth, and have a perfect casual look.

Source (edited): Headcovers.com