“Après-Ski” is a glamorous affair. Whether you do it in the high-class mountain towns in the US or up in the European Alps, the activity requires a certain level of class and sophistication. Of course, you don't have to be decked out in
haute couture like how the jet-set crowd of the mid-20th century did it. These days, all you need is striking ski gear, the most luxurious knitwear, and a few accessories to complete a look. Wearing a bit of (preferably faux) fur won't hurt too. And while you're at it, go for chic boots that look good no matter where you are!
Proper Ski Gear
First things first, you need proper ski gear. You'd think this was par for the course, but this wasn't always the case in Après-Ski. Back then, appearances trumped everything, especially when it came to what people wore. So oftentimes, the rich and famous who partook in Après-Ski focused more on how their ski gear looked rather than how effective they were in keeping them safe and warm. Fortunately, this is no longer the case these days. Even high fashion brands became known for their highly functional (as well as fashionable, of course) ski gear.
High-Quality Knitwear
Perhaps the ultimate must-have for any Après-Ski wardrobe is high-quality knitwear. For one thing, these garments are what they'll mostly wear in Après-Ski. Don't forget that “Après-Ski” means “after skiing,” and what do you do after having a go on the
French Alps? Stay as warm as possible. And to look as chic as possible while doing it, the best knitwear is your best bet. Think soft cashmeres, thick cable knits, or even a well-fitted turtleneck. Be it in neutrals or pops of color, the right sweater will last you all the way through your entire trip.
Warm Boots
In terms of footwear, it's boots or nothing! Après-Ski usually happens in the most prominent
ski resort towns in the world. While these destinations are undeniably beautiful and have a classic glamour to them, they're also among the coldest places on earth. So much so that no other type of footwear will do than a nice, sturdy pair of boots. Do take note, however, that the boots you wear on the slopes ought to be different from those you wear out and about on Après-Ski. Hiking boots can be for the former while a nice suede pair can be for the latter.
Keep Some Eveningwear Handy
Don't forget that Après-Ski is a social activity. It's all about how you spend time after skiing, whether you go out for drinks or simply invite people to your mountain chalet for game night. As such, it's smart to keep some evening wear handy. It's not far-fetched to be invited to an evening gala or a cocktail party in Après-Ski. In fact, these used to be staple events back when the term first emerged among high society circles in the 1950s and 60s. Of course, times have changed since then but that doesn't mean that these sorts of parties no longer happen.
Why Dressing Up in Bold Colors is Important
You'd normally think that wearing bright colors is a fashion no-no, especially in winter. You'd usually reserve vivid hues for summer or spring, but winter? Especially on your ski holiday? Well, there's a good reason for it. Don't forget that many of these popular ski resort towns are largely rural. They're in the
French countryside, on the Austrian Alps, and more. These are places where you can easily get lost if you're not careful. And if that happens, wearing bright colors will make it easier for others to find you.
Pile On The Accessories!
Après-Ski wardrobes tend to be simple nowadays. Filled with neutral-toned knitwear or ski gear that are more functional than fashionable (though things are getting more balanced), there's less focus on looking good. It's better to stay warm than to freeze to death even when you're in
French designer clothes, right? Be that as it may, you can always dress up your simple winter looks with the right accessories. A black turtleneck, for example, looks even chicier when paired with shimmering gold earrings when you go out for drinks after skiing. Or a statement necklace can make the simplest sweaters look like a million bucks.
The Best Brands for Après-Ski
Moncler has long defined itself as the quintessential designer brand for Après-Ski. The label specialized in winter-ready outerwear and ski gear, after all. Just having a Moncler parka is enough to have you dressed to impress for the Swiss Alps. The same goes for Uniqlo, a Japanese high-street brand beloved for its high-quality casual wear. Yes, this includes padded jackets, soft scarves, ski pants, and more. It's not exactly a designer label but it frequently collaborates with big-named fashion designers. And for a touch of unmistakable luxury, add some Chanel, Gucci, Fendi, and Burberry to your wardrobe too.
Get your colorful ski gear, high-quality knitwear, and chic winter boots ready! These are some of the style staples for Après-Ski! They'll keep you warm and comfy but also help you look great during your ski holiday.
