Even if you can’t jet-set to Aspen, Whistler Blackcomb or the French Alps, you’ll want to keep your eye out for the après-ski fashion trend. Why? Après-ski style isn’t just for after-ski activities. It’s evolved into a whole mood. Think alpine-chic aesthetic built on casual and cozy clothes with a sporty vibe. Interested? Here’s how to take women’s après-ski style from the slopes to the streets.
What is Après-Ski?
Après-ski is a French term that translates to “after ski.” The term was coined in Europe in the 1950s during the rise of commercial skiing. It’s all about time spent after skiing. Think windswept looks after coming off of the slopes and relaxing with a hot beverage in your ski gear. While it’s 5 o’clock somewhere for happy hour, there is no specific time for when after-ski activities start or finish. It’s one of our favorite parts of the carefree vibe of après-ski. Whether you have a ski-adventure planned or want to give this women’s winter fashion 2022 trend a try, we promise you won’t be (snow)bored.
Must-Have Après-Ski Style Staples
One of the best parts of women’s après-ski fashion is that you don’t have to ski through the snow to partake. With a few simple swaps, you’ll be mountain-chic in no time. Puffer jackets, sherpa lined boots, turtlenecks, sweaters and woolen accessories that are both functional and fashionable are an après-ski-must. You may not be walking in a winter wonderland, but you’ll definitely sparkle like a blanket of freshly fallen snow.
Stay Warm in Fair Isle Sweaters
Snuggle up with a book near the roaring lodge fire in a women’s après-ski sweater. Our favorite sweater that invokes ski vibes? The Fair Isle sweater. The intricate patterns in these sweaters hail from the Shetland Islands. Colorful weaves that have been passed down over generations influence the Fair Isle sweaters we see today.
Found a few unsightly lint balls on your Fair Isle sweater? Pilling most commonly appears under your arms or anywhere your sweater is constantly rubbed. Steer clear of pills and care for your sweater by avoiding friction. Your purse or seat belt are common culprits for pilling. If you can’t avoid it, no sweat. Keep a fabric shaver on hand to easily get rid of pilling. Voila, your sweater is good as new.
Layer Up with Ski-Inspired Puffer Jackets and Vests
Don’t let Jack Frost nip at your nose (or anywhere else)—wear a women’s après-ski puffer jacket or vest this winter. Protect yourself from the elements in a waterproof or water-resistant option. Another key detail to look for? Whether your jacket is filled with down or a sustainable-friendly, poly-fill. Down is often mistaken for the feathers that adorn ducks and geese. Believe it or not, down fill is actually the undercoat––the stuff under the feathers. Down locks in and retains warmth which is why it’s a favorite among skiers. If down doesn’t appeal to you, give a synthetic filled puffer jacket a try.
Want to rock a puffer jacket but live in a warmer climate? You can still indulge in the après-ski trend by wearing a lightweight, quilted women’s shacket. A puffer vest will also give you the same fresh off the slopes feel.
Accessories to Take Your Winter Wardrobe to the Next Level
Wrap up your après-ski style ensemble with a few accessories made for bundling up during a cold snap. Enter, scarves. Not only does a scarf keep your neck warm, but it also adds a pop of color and texture to your look. Both buffalo plaid prints and scarves are fashion favorites year after year. Try your hand at mixing prints and patterns by wearing a plaid scarf over an animal-print top.
Avoid catching a chill and keep your toes toasty in sherpa-lined boots. Choose an après-ski boot with a lug sole for traction, especially if the ground is dusted with snow or ice. A sherpa lining adds another layer of protection for your feet in cold weather. Reach for a neutral color to ensure they pair well with virtually anything in your après-ski wardrobe.
It’s a myth that 40% of heat escapes through your head, but a knit beanie will still keep your head warm. Top off your après-ski look with an easy-to-wear beanie adorned with a faux fur pom. The multi-textural detail of this duo elevates your beanie––it’s not the same cold weather cap you wore as a kid. Not a fan of beanies? Wear an ear warmer headband instead. Pull your loose locks into a high ponytail and slip on the headband. Now you are ready for any après-ski activity that comes your way.
Après-Ski Outfits for Every Occasion
Did you know that most ski towns around the world take part in après-ski activities? Now that you know what women’s après-ski staples to add to your closet this winter, let’s put it all together. Here’s what to wear whether you’ve worked your way through a black diamond run or freestyled down a bunny hill. Or, if you’re simply looking to add an après-ski aesthetic to your wardrobe, we’ve got you covered, too.
Lounging in Lake Tahoe: Apres-Ski Style
Squaw Valley near Lake Tahoe, California is known for hosting the Winter Olympics in 1960. It’s no wonder it appeals to snow sport enthusiasts from around the world. Après-skiers in Tahoe relax after a long day of hitting the slopes at the fire pits in the village. Get into a laid-back, Tahoe-inspired, après-ski mood by wearing a pair of fleece-lined leggings. Finish with a cozy sweater and sport a stylish ski-inspired puffer vest or jacket. Grab a s’mores stick and all the fixins’ as you kick back and relax fireside.
Go Après-Ski Vintage in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Chamonix is one of the oldest ski resorts in France. Get inspired by the local scenery and don a women’s après-ski outfit with vintage charm. Chambre 9 is touted as the place to après-ski, so wear a vintage Fair Isle sweater with jeans. Lace up your hiker boots, and you’ll be ready to rock out to live music. Layer your sweater over a tee so you can tie it around your waist while you dance the night away.
Catch an Après-Ski Party in St. Anton
Wondering what to wear to an après-ski party? Get inspiration from the nightlife scene in St. Anton, Austria. St. Anton has some of the most difficult slopes to navigate—beginner slopes included. After a long day of serious skiing, it’s time to par-tay. Look festive in a midi skirt paired with a dipping v-neckline sweater. If snow starts to sprinkle outside, layer with a textured teddy bear coat and seal the deal with snow boots. Now you are ready to party in après-ski fashion Austria-style.
Switch Up Your Après-Ski Style in Jackson Hole
Not a fan of mountain sports? We get it. Luckily, quaint ski towns like Jackson Hole, Wyoming are known for their cute local boutiques you are sure to get lost in. Add women’s après-ski style to your look with a pair of overalls, as they resemble a ski bib. Stay stylish and warm in a turtleneck. To add a touch of mountain flair, grab a plaid faux-fur shacket. This comfy ensemble makes it super easy to go from shopping to après-ski sips and eats.
Planning a mountain escape? Take your style quiz, schedule a Fix and ask your stylist to send après-ski-inspired clothes to bundle up. Don’t forget, shipping and returns are always on us.
