Apres Ski Fashion Advice from an ex-seasonnaire

1. Layering is essential

The most important part of apres ski fashion is that you are warm enough. Lots of apres ski takes places outside so despite the endless dancing, you will get cold. The temperature drops as soon as the sun goes down, so you will need to be prepared for this with your apres ski fashion.

If you are coming from the slopes, consider having an extra pair of gloves, or ensure you are wearing enough layers. This will guarantee you being able to stay out for as long as you want, rather than getting too cold and needing to go home.

Cashmere blends help to keep heat in while giving you a chic look. For those of you who opt for skiing without a coat (something I am partial to), make sure to have lots of layers underneath your oversized jumper. Bright printed t-shirts with long sleeve turtlenecks, or thin layers with a chunky coat are easy ways to ensure you are fashionable while remaining warm at apres. 

2. Footwear: From ski boots to moon boots

Lots of people will head straight from the slopes to apres and there is something to be said about someone’s ability to dance and climb on high tables with ski boots on. Lucky for the snowboarders who have an easier task with their more flexible footwear. However, those who prefer changing their footwear before heading to apres may be at a loss for what to wear. 

Moon boots have been making a strong return over the past few years. Stylish but also practical, they are a real statement retro piece particularly the long versions. Opt for the shorter boot for a more updated look.

UGG and Salomon also have some great options, but watch out for the tread on their boots as you may find yourself slipping and sliding around the alps. The most practical boots and functional footwear is a classic walking boot. They have the best tread and combined with some wool socks, they are the perfect apres boot – and who’s looking at your feet anyway! 

Pro tip: Wear two pairs of socks to apres if possible. Your feet will get coldest the quickest!

3. Accessories are the easiest way to perfect apres ski fashion

Colourful glasses, statement hats, cute headbands, all of these are welcome at apres. You will see many interesting outfits at apres. Whether it is fancy dress, full ski gear or jeans. Most outfits go. The best way to stay on trend for apres is by accessorising. This means you can head straight to apres from the slope and just keep some accessories in your ski jacket. Whether this is a colourful pair of orange lens glasses, a strawberry hat or a fun print ski goggle cover. The more clashing prints and colours, the better! Stand out! Accessories are a great way to not sacrifice comfort and warmth for style. 

Pro tip: Even if you are not planning to go to apres, always carry an accessory in your jacket in case you end up there later! Things like sunglasses and headbandsare good for apres ski fashion but will go well with your ski outfit when you are skiing anyway.

4. Vintage

Apres ski fashion inspiration is now being taken from the ‘80s. Think bright, bold, clashing prints. Colour block statement jackets. Cow print trousers. Oversized jumpers. If you saw it in the 80s, you will probably be seeing it in 2024/25. So, raid your parents’ old ski outfits, head to a vintage shop or search on vinted. If it is on the ugly side, it is probably perfect for this season’s apres ski fashion. 

Places like Vinted or Charity shops are also a great way to find Vintage ski gear. Also a cheaper and more sustainable way to shop for your winter trip. Just be sure to ensure the clothes will still be waterproof, or buy a waterproofing kit for your clothes! 

Pro tip: If you are buying something on vinted, see how many time they’ve used the jacket/ salopettes, as this will tend to correlate with how waterproof the item will/ will not still be.

5. Apres ski bags

My essential ski bag is the Uniqlo cross body bum bag. The perfect size for all the ski and apres essentials – lip balm, suncream, sunglasses, spare gloves, extra hat, ski goggle cover, etc. Rucksacks or small crossbody bags are also a great choice. Be sure to consider how waterproof and durable they are with the ability to go from the slopes to apres. 

Pro tip: If you are wearing a rucksack, make sure all the straps and buckles are secure so they don’t get caught on a lift as you are getting off it…. !

Conclusion

Apres ski fashion, like anything, is a chance for self expression. An opportunity to try out crazy outfits that may not be “appropriate” in your everyday life. It is a fun way to be able to spot your friends from a mile away at the bar. The most important thing about apres ski fashion is that YOU like what you are wearing. Wear something that makes you feel good and ensure you are comfortable and cosy, ready to dance the night away. 

I hope that this blog has given you some inspiration for your next ski trip and has given you a good guide to apres ski fashion. With anything, trends change but at apres, most things go.

Happy skiing and enjoy the apres fashion!