In recent years, the ski slope has become a catwalk of a different kind. Celebrities such as Victoria Beckham, Alessandra Ambrosio and Karlie Kloss have all put their stamp on snow wear, bringing a high-fashion sensibility to the winter sport. Luxury brands have followed, leaning into ski collections. Today, you’re likely to find skiers gliding on-piste in a Prada snowsuit, while the term “après” conjures up visions of elegant guests wrapped up in cashmere, shearling and Fair Isle sweaters.
For those who are lucky enough to be hitting the slopes, we’re here to help you craft the ultimate wardrobe for both on and off them.
Ski suits
From all-out retro to understated sophistication, a ski suit is a fast-track way to feeling effortlessly put together on piste. Fendi’s contrasting salopettes, £2,000, have a nostalgic appeal with tons of flair, while Moncler’s Grenoble ski suit, £1,985, is straight from its Autumn/Winter 2024 catwalk. With a leather belt, utility cargo-style patch pockets and pleats, the all-in-one suit is perfect for sipping Aperol slopeside in St Moritz or the Italian Alps.
Ski goggles
Who says fashion can’t be functional? Hot off the animal print trend that has ruled 2024, Gucci’s zebra striped ski goggles, £715, are a lesson in incorporating street style in your ski wardrobe while ensuring technical performance. With a solid bordeaux lens, the mask provides 100% UVA and UVB protection. For the optimum view, these snow goggles from Oakley, £490, use its Prizm technology to ensure perfect visibility. Made in collaboration with Prada, the special-edition pair features a rimless lens, so you can get the full picture (in HD, no less) of that glossy mountain range.
Snow boots
Following in the footsteps of Copenhagen Fashion Week’s A/W24 catwalk, snow boots are a necessity when building your capsule ski wardrobe. Straight from the DiorAlps collection, this Miss Dior Après-Ski boot, £1,050, is the French fashion house’s take on the Moon Boot, sporting a chunky silhouette. While you may be fooled into thinking these will only see you through ski season, think again. Snow boots are a rising star when it comes to winter city fashion. Knee-high shearling boots from the likes of Moncler, £2,270, make a statement, while also keeping your toes toasty.
Ski thermals
Your saving grace on the ski run, thermals are a must on your packing list. As any experienced skier will tell you, layering is a not-so-secret essential, so make sure you have tops and leggings to wear underneath your ski suit or jacket. With a history in mountain sports, Moncler is a go-to for performance wear. As part of its Moncler Grenoble campaign, its jersey polo neck, £370, is an ideal base layer, alongside its knit leggings, £365, made with Polartec Power Grid, a lightweight fabric that provides warmth and breathability.
Accessories
When it comes to snow sports, the details make a big difference. Things like ski gloves, knitted balaclavas and some Loro Piana cashmere socks, £225, can take you from ultimate beginner to seasoned pro. Brands such as Louis Vuitton combine signature styles with technical know-how, as evident in its Damoflage mittens, £620. Adapting Pharrell Williams’ Damoflage motif, first showcased at the S/S24 fashion show, these mittens are equipped with adjustable straps and specifically designed with skiers in mind.
It’s all about après
Luckily for some of us, there’s no skill required to enjoy dipping into raclette and fondue. Queue the cute knits and crew jumpers. Made from 100 per cent cashmere, this Miu Miu crochet cardigan, £4,900, has a French flair with an alpine take on the Breton stripe – perfect for meandering through Courchevel or Val Thorens. Pair with ski pants from Prada, £1,580, a fringed scarf from Loewe, £350, and a jacquard beanie, £385, from Dolce & Gabbana to complete the look.