Best Après ski outfits to impress on and off the slopes
Après Ski is considered the 'fun part' to any ski or snowboarding trip, and in fact you don't have to hit the snow-capped mountains to enjoy it.
But what is après ski you ask? It is a term, which is believed to date back to the 50s and directly translates to 'after ski' in French, though to you and I it's any post-ski activity, namely involving eating and drinking.
Typically après ski means pitching up in a cosy log cabin or chalet to indulge in cheese fondue, washed down with a hot toddy, or slurping champagne slopeside after frolicking in the snow.
How you enjoy your après ski session is up to you, some may prefer a relaxed vibe to chill out and rest after a morning of exercise, while others may pitch up all day in an après ski set-up with friends where the resident DJ may take to the decks, and even continuing partying into the early hours of the morning.
Depending on where you go the après ski outfit choice may vary, some ski resorts, and après ski haunts may be a little more upmarket, while others more relaxed, but one thing is for sure it's not an occasion for stilettos and sparkly dresses.
In fact that is what we love about après ski - that you can wear your entire ski attire fresh off the slaloms, swap out a few garments, such as your ski boots for sturdy everyday boots, and ditch the ski helmet, for hours of fun and relaxation. If you have got a sweat on after skiing you can change, but knitwear, or warm gym gear is still perfectly fine, as well as stylish gilet or ski jacket and ski trousers. In short, the après ski dress code is comfortable, warm and casual clothing, it may be knitwear, gym wear or thermals, the choice is yours.
What is Après ski dress code?
Après ski does not require a dress code, unless you are heading off to somewhere super fancy.
Typically, people head straight to après ski after skiing on the slopes, which means thermals, jumpers, knitwear, ski jackets and ski trousers, or one-piece ski suits, as well as hat hair are all welcome.
Of course when on a ski trip the weather is expected to be cold, so you will, undoubtedly, have numerous layers on. But for après ski, and if pitched up in a cosy cabin indoors, then you may slowly start to remove said layers.
What do you wear to Après ski?
Depending on where you go may change what you wear. For instance a casual or spontaneous après ski session will see you wear the entire outfit, bar the skis, or snowboard, boots and helmet you previously adorned.
However, if your après ski session features a DJ then you will still be in layers, thermals and winter appropriate layers, such as salopettes, and a puffer jacket, but you may opt for a more stylish jumper or top underneath, perhaps you will remain in a chic winter appropriate jumpsuit, or stylish one piece ski suit.
Some of the popular, and recurring, ski wear trends we have seen include monochrome colours, as well as graphic prints and retro pieces with bold colours.
A hugely popular trend also includes one piece ski suits, but figure hugging creations that flatter your silhouette even if you are in a padded design.
While those who prefer two piece sets, which we are also on board with so you can better control your body temperature off the slopes and do not overheat indoors, flared trousers are doing the rounds, especially a skinny flare that is flattering to your frame instead of concealed by oversized designs.
What shoes do you wear to Après ski?
You may have your base and outer layers, trousers, and jacket covered from earlier in the day, but what about footwear? After hitting the slopes you will take off your ski boots and skis, or snowboard, and left with the shoes you wore to get to the slopes.
When on a ski trip the temperatures are lower than usual, which means you still want warm footwear, as well as practical designs to take you to and from the slopes, so you are not slipping and sliding en route.
Some popular footwear options include Moon Boots, walking boots, Timberlands, or similar chunky boots with thick soles and plenty of grip to keep you on your feet, and warm.
Some may wear trainers, but we don't advise it as they are not necessarily the warmest option in the snow, or practical when navigating icy routes to get to the main ski hub.
From St. Moritz to Chamonix, we have found the best après ski outfits for a stylish, and fuss free post slope event.
HEATTECH Extra Warm Cashmere Blend High Neck T-Shirt
If you plan on heading to après after a few hours on the slopes, you’ll need to give your outfit for the day some careful consideration. While a ski jacket does help to keep you warm, when it’s especially cold you’ll need reinforcements in the form of a quality thermal base layer.
If there’s one brand that knows thermals, it’s Uniqlo. The Japanese brand launched its HEATTECH collection in 2003 and has continually developed and innovated the range over the past two decades.
Unlike lower-quality thermals that feel stuffy and sweat-inducing, the HEATTECH fabric absorbs body heat to keep you warm and comfortable. Our favourite thing about the collection is that it recognises that not all conditions require the same level of warmth, so you can get three different levels: classic HEATTECH, HEATTECH Extra Warm and HEATTECH Ultra Warm.
The original HEATTECH jersey is thin and lightweight, which is ideal for layering. Extra Warm is 1.5 times warmer than the classic, unreal for colder days on the slopes. Ultra Warm is 2.25 times warmer than the classic jersey range, a perfect match for the extreme cold.
This isn’t a range designed exclusively for skiing either and can be a winter wardrobe staple for anyone who lives in a colder climate and finds their coat isn’t cutting it.
The range includes everything a good base layer requires for head-to-toe coverage, including socks, tights, leggings, camisoles, turtlenecks and t-shirts. We’re also big fans of the collection’s affordability, with most of the range available for under £20
Moon Boot nylon mules in black
Moon Boots are the first footwear option that spring to mind when we think of winter appropriate footwear, especially shoes for skiing.
Moon Boots that fall to the ankle or mid-way up the calf are the more popular designs, but these slip on mules are practical, will keep your feet warm and protected, but without your entire leg overheating post ski session.
Heatgen™ Maximum Thermal Fleece Top
M&S' Heatgen and Heatgen Plus Thermals are a thing of wonder, and a failsafe basic layering we are never without in the cold winter months, as well as on the slopes.
The Heatgen technology is M&S' genius creation designed to keep the wearer warm, while also drawing moisture away from the body.
There are a variety of styles, but for those who want a simple classic layering piece you will feel comfortable in on its own when enjoying après ski indoors, this is the solution, though you can shop round neck variations too, as well as leggings and tops. We urge you to buy everything in the Heatgen range your next winter trip.
Women Tights Wool-Tech
Falke's Wool Tech Tights have been described as being suitable for 'cold to very cold conditions'. While you could wear them as you would normal leggings, we recommend layering under your salopettes come après ski.
These leggings are buttery soft, but also super insulating and snug thanks to the blend of virgin wool, polyamide and elastane, to provide the desired stretch for a better fit and extra comfort.
SK2 Intermediate Women Skiing Knee-high Socks
Layering is essential on any ski trip, but especially come après ski. You may be warm after working out on the slopes one minute, but find you feel the cold after when sipping a cider or knocking back Jaegermeister après ski outdoors.
With that in mind a pair of thermal socks are a discrete but efficient hack to ensure you stay super warm at all times.
Made from a merino wool mix fabric, which boasts a 3-layer moisture wicking construction, and sufficient cushioning to protect your feet from blisters when on your feet all day - even when busting shapes at an après ski party.
Women's Bugaboo™ Omni-Heat™ Ski Trouser
Columbia's Bugaboo Omni Heat Ski Trouser are ideal for any winter trips and ski breaks.
For those who prefer the versatility of a two-piece set, or mix and matching their ski outfit, these trousers are a must as they will coordinate with everything, keep the wearer warm and dry, and stylish enough to wear with a chunky knit jumper for the perfect après ski outfit.
These trousers are waterproof, yet breathable, thanks to the Omni-Tech technology that insulates while also promoting air circulation. Plus, it features zip up pockets so you won't need a bag and can house your valuables safely.
£57.50 at columbiasportswear.co.uk
Mountain High 1/2 Zip Fleece
We have mentioned how key layering items are, and when it comes to après ski you want to wear something stylish, warm, and you aren't ashamed to show off, which is this bold fleece.
Typically fleeces are considered the least fashionable garment, until we came across Free People's contrast design. Layer this pullover over thermals, a long sleeve, and under your ski jacket for the slopes, and ditch the outerwear garment come après ski.
Fluffy Ear Muffs
When it comes to après ski outfits accessories are everything, and you can't be without a pair of cute fluffy ear muffs.
If you are sitting indoors or outdoors, and may be fed up of wearing a hat all day, then a set of ear muffs are a welcome alternative.
Plus they'll keep your ears warm, so they're practical and stylish.
The Meli
One of the most satisfying moments after skiing is ripping off your heavy goggles. However, if you're at a bar on the slopes you may still want to wear eye protection on particularly sunny days. We love the Meli sunglasses from Jimmy Fairly, as they look just as chic after a day of skiing as they do on the beach come summer.
Hit The Slopes Balaclava
On warmer ski days, layering is key. Things can get a little warm while you're dancing up a storm at après, so anything that you can take on and off as the climate calls for it is a winner in our book.
This balaclava has been made with cosy fleece and adjustable drawstrings that'll protect you from the wind and add a layer of warmth when you need it.
Women's Sweet Shredder™ II Waterproof Insulated Ski Jacket
Columbia has plenty of ski and snowboarding essentials to shop, whether you are shopping individual jackets and trousers, co-ords and matching sets, thermals or accessories, this brand has it all.
Made from Omni-Tech and Omni Heat thermal reflective fabric, this jacket is waterproof, insulating, and breathable to keep you protected when faced with the elements, and warm enough to wear sitting al fresco slurping on a mulled wine.
£180.00 at columbiasportswear.co.uk
Setesdal merino wool jumpsuit
We Norwegians is a brand you need to have on your radar when shopping winter warmers, as well as ski wear.
This wool jumpsuit is a huge hit in our après ski style books, and even as a loungewear piece to wear when you have returned home from your active winter break.
This chic one piece has been created from super soft merino wool to keep you warm underneath your ski suit. But ditch your ski jacket for a stylish après ski outfit that is warm, insulating, luxe and uber chic.
£349.50 at net-a-porter.com.uk
Womens Ski Jacket & Pants Set
If you are shopping for a full ski set to see you on and off the slopes, Mountain Warehouse has the solution with this stylish set for fuss free shopping.
This set is complete with a thermal hooded ski jacket, and salopettes, with braces to help keep in place.
Wear the whole set come any al fresco après ski parties to keep you warm even when the sun goes in, or unzip the jacket to let in a little breeze if your dancing has warmed you up.
£99.99 at mountainwarehouse.com
Ajax belted hooded quilted down ski suit
Cordova is a luxury ski brand that prides itself on tailored pieces, which are stunning on the slopes, but even more worthy of celebrating with a glass of fizz slopeside.
This design boasts the slim fitting tailored trouser to flatter the figure, alongside the high waisted belt, and flared hem at the ankle. While the puffer jacket upper section almost looks like a cropped jacket, flatters the figure even more, and keeps your upper body super warm when taking a break from whizzing through off pieste routes. The metal and black accents in the form of the ribbed cuff and ankle panel makes this one piece look super sleek too.
£1682.00 at net-a-porter.com.uk
Star Ski Suit
Just when we thought we couldn't be any more obsessed with Perfect Moment anymore, along comes this super chic Ski Suit.
Après ski can take place in a variety of locations, and whether you are indoors, or at an outdoor après ski party dancing away, you want something warm and stylish, and this ticks those boxes. Layer over thermals, and additional knitwear if you want extra warmth.
Cortina Valley Mid Chelsea Boot for Women in Beige
On previous ski trips, as well as walking breaks and winter escapes, I have religiously relied on my trusted Timberland boots to keep me on my feet.
The chunky sole, and thick grip are a god sent to clutch onto slippery surfaces. Some may prefer the classic lace up designs, and in the iconic sand colourway, but for those wanting to impress at après ski why not go for the Chelsea Boot style, which are easy to slip on and off, will coordinate with any outfit, are comfortable and sturdy.
Clea Sixties faux fur-trimmed printed padded ski jacket
For those who are looking for a unique, chic and super stylish après ski outfit, we are head over heels for the Fusalps Clea Sixties faux fur-trimmed printed padded ski jacket, which also comes with matching trousers, though you could easily pair with a red, blue or white pair of ski trousers.
The print alone is simply mesmerising, while the attention to detail in the form of a white contrast waist belt to cinch in your waist, combined with the faux fur trimmed collar, makes for an even more stylish ensemble.
£1350.00 at net-a-porter.com.uk
Luxe Verbier Ski Suit
My Sunday Ski is another ski brand you need to have on your radar when shopping for stylish après ski outfits, as well as practical and fashionable attire for hitting the slopes.
The Verbier Ski Suit looks uber luxe thanks to the quilted chest detailing, fur collar and high waisted belt. Wear this over basic layers to turn heads at your post ski event.
Womens Pippa Ski Pants - Regular
Goldbergh is a hugely popular brand when shopping for winter staples, especially when it comes to hitting the slopes.
If you are looking for ski trousers with a flared ankle to channel the 70s look, which is back in trend, these are a well worthy investment.
These trousers are comfortable, practical and insulating as they feature a bonded fleece interior and a 3-layer softshell material, which boasts a four-way stretch for extra flexibility when snow plowing. However, they are trendy and still warm enough to wear on their own after your ski class.
Après Merino Wool Sweater
Perfect Moment has a stunning range of ski appropriate garments to take you from the slopes to après ski.
Layer this uber luxe merino wool turtle neck ribbed jumper under your ski jacket on the slopes, but have on full display when you hit the après ski party.
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