Get the Ultimate Après-Ski Look with These 4 Stylist-Approved Tips
It’s officially ski-season (or ski-son?) and with this time of year boasting peak conditions – especially in the Alps – it’s time to hit the slopes and, more importantly, get your après-ski on. An unlikely fashion frontrunner, a ski trip is a great opportunity to show off your sartorial creds and have some fun with winter styles.
Peak ski season is upon us – with dramatic alabaster vistas and deep mahogany chalets, a ski holiday can be the perfect backdrop to show off your super cool winter wardrobe. Punctuated by unusual textures, cute accessories and funky 80s patterns, a ski holiday is a great place to play around with styles that you wouldn’t normally wear.
If you’re a skier, snowboarder, taking the kids for their first slopes adventure or are just there to lap up the incredible views, apres-ski is one of the best parts of any snow-themed holiday. From cheese fondues and hot chocolates to hot toddies and a good old party, après-ski is a great time to de-layer and show off your sartorial creds.
But, where to start?
Luckily, we’ve sat down with Megan Watkins, Head Stylist at online fashion destination SilkFred, who has let us in on 4 tips that will get us ready for some après-ski indulgence in style.
1. Invest in a versatile ski jacket
From the actual skiing to waiting in the bar for the kids to finish their lesson, a substantial ski coat or jacket will be the hardest working item in your suitcase so it’s important you invest in one that can be worn with a variety of outfits.
Megan explains: “Ski jackets are essential for everyday skiing and even if we’re not intending to do any skiing ourselves, it’s important not to underestimate how much time you’ll actually be spending outside in the elements.”
“Ski jackets in block, bold colours are best and stand out against the dramatic white of the mountains – just make sure it’s a colour that suits you and matches the rest of your packed outfits. For example, if you’ve brought monochrome thermals I would suggest a ski jacket in bright red or orange. If you’ve gone for a more tonal wardrobe, cooler hues like blue or purple will work well.”
2. Rock a statement salopette
Unheard of to skiing newbies, salopettes are sturdy, waterproof trousers that come with braces or a bib which are designed to stop snow getting in. Originally made for very practical reasons, the salopette has developed into a key fashion staple for any ski wardrobe.
Megan reveals: “Salopettes are essentially dungarees but for skiing purposes. Often only truly exposed during apres-ski when you can finally take your ski jacket off, the utilitarian piece often comes with a belted waist which creates a great silhouette to work with. The open top also gives you the opportunity to play with layers, texture and patterns.”
“Your thermals will often be in a neutral tone, which means you can really experiment with your salopette. Try a fun gingham, houndstooth or chevron print in contrasting colours for some seriously head-turning ski fashion.”
3. Get into the groove with retro styles
The 1980s was arguably the most iconic era for ski fashion with those classic fluorescent ski suits often being our point of reference when we think of hitting the slopes.
On how to nail the clashing colour trend Megan recommends: “It’s important to remember that Apres-ski isn’t your usual smart-casual bar on a Friday night vibe. It’s fun, light-hearted and nostalgic.”
“Apres-ski first gained popularity in the 1950s, and reached its peak in the 70s and 80s and you can still feel this influence today. Think padded shoulders, chunky headbands and geometric neon prints – just use Wham!’s Last Christmas as inspiration.”
“I would suggest packing a statement chunky knit, a thick headband, wraparound sunglasses and wherever you can incorporate some neon, by all means, incorporate some neons.”
4. Have fun with faux fur
Faux fur is a great way to stay warm and fashionable on your ski holiday.
“Faux fur is an essential when packing for your next ski holiday. You can go full-fur-force with a statement coat but you can also add fun fur flourishes with your accessories.”
“A faux fur headband or fur-trimmed boots are a great way to make a subtle fashion statement whilst staying cosy. A faux fur gilet will look great as you sip on a hot chocolate by a roaring fire or take a note out of Kim’s book and opt for a statement fur handbag to store your ski accessories in, in style.”
“To compliment the dramatic scenery, go for a snowy white fur and match it with deeper coffee tones and reds.”