Après-ski, a French term meaning "after skiing," embodies more than just the activities you enjoy after a day on the slopes; it's a rich culture centered around relaxation, entertainment, and socializing. In fact, truly half the fun of skiing is what comes after skiing.
It’s one of winter’s rare style spaces where function meets fun. Après ski is the unofficial reward for surviving a day on the slopes: a heady mix of music, mulled drinks, warm lighting, and good energy. Style-wise, it’s equal parts cosy, confident and just that tiny bit of extra.
This lifestyle has also seeped into the fashion realm. In the past, skiers typically changed their gear into simple, warm after-ski clothes that prioritized comfort. Today, après ski attire balances style with coziness, making a bold fashion statement.
If there’s one place you can embrace cosy-glam completely guilt-free, it’s après ski. We’re talking warm chalets, fairy lights, slow-burning fireplaces and that delicious post-slopes buzz.
If you're wondering what to wear after a day on the slopes or how to incorporate this style into your winter wardrobe, here are our top picks for après-ski clothing essentials to suit any plans you have for your next ski trip.
Read also: Plan Your Après-Ski Party
When I was invited by ALO to visit Courchevel, a ski town in the French Alps, I knew I was entering foreign territory in more ways than one. My experience with après-ski fashion is limited to West Coast ski towns in Colorado and Utah, where Western-inspired trends reign supreme. However, I knew that a visit to a chic mountain town in France would mean leaving my cowboy hats and boots at home. Courchevel is one of the most high-end ski resorts in the world, known for its five-star accommodations (we stayed at the iconic Les Airelles), Michelin-star dining, designer shopping, and of course, its breathtaking skiing terrain. With the après-ski scene in Courchevel as the inspiration for past ALO Atelier collections, it's only fitting that this is where the latest drop was celebrated.
Abby Gordon, ALO's chief design and merchandising officer, explains, "With iconic winter styles in high-end materials, Atelier bridges ski-slope mornings, recovery afternoons, and glamorous nights. This is a collection that allows you to move beautifully through every moment of winter, and infuses a sense of sophistication into special occasions and the everyday."
I arrived fully equipped with cashmere sets, silky evening attire, faux-fur accessories, and a wide range of statement outerwear for before, during, and after skiing. The new pieces were perfect for the chic, luxurious dress code of the French Alps, making my packing decisions delightfully easy. I fit right in with the fashion crowd, who were all wearing three very specific trends.
Key Trends Spotted in Courchevel
- Winter-white looks both on and off the slopes were everywhere in Courchevel.
- Faux fur is a top trend of the season, so it's no surprise that all the girls are incorporating the material into their slopeside outfits.
- In past seasons, we've seen bright colors such as red and royal blue all over the slopes, but the fashion crowd in Courchevel leaned into pastels. Opting for a pastel ski suit (and Moon Boots for after the slopes) is an easy way to stand out on the mountain.
Instead, people really dress to impress. I saw so many cool statement coats, particularly ones in unique fabrics.
Dressing for the slopes is undeniably enjoyable, but many people might say that putting together an après ski outfit is even more thrilling.
What To Wear For Apres Ski 2024-2025
Here is the formula you need to remember: Base layer → fleece → bomber or puffer → scarf.
Thick Sweaters
Streamline your packing list and choose versatile knits that suit both your ski outfits in the morning and your denim or leggings for cozy fireside gatherings in the afternoon. Opt for high-quality cashmere or wool, whether you lean towards a classic style like the Wool Roundneck sweater Mazzy from House of Dagmar or prefer a more sleek, sporty look.
You can also go for a minimalist vibe with fisherman sweaters and chunky turtlenecks, such as the Turtleneck Alpaca-Blend Pullover Marrie from Tiger of Sweden.
There’s something undeniably alpine about chunky knitwear. Opt for a sequinned turtleneck layered under a puffer, a sparkly cardigan, or even a metallic gilet.
The Best Apres Ski Sweaters? Sometimes all you need is just a fun layer to throw on under your ski jacket because there's no way you're going back and changing or showering.
Die hard skiiers, I see you. Apres ski style doesn’t have to mean looking like a snowman. You can be warm and cute.
Whether you're sipping cocoa, sitting by the fire, or at a hardcore champagne showers and DJ type of party, these outfits will have you looking your best.
Down Jackets
When you're out exploring a snow-covered mountain, having a cozy sweater is just the beginning-what you really need is a warm down jacket! Depending on your plans, you might want a specialized ski jacket or something more versatile if you do not need professional gear.
For women's ski outfit ideas, consider Moose Knuckles jackets, celebrated for their practicality, durability, and stylish designs. The Gold-detail belted jacket Cambria provides a long, cinched silhouette for ample warmth. In contrast, the Lightweight padded jacket Bankhead is an excellent choice for those post-ski gatherings, offering comfort without much bulk.
Your coat is the outfit. Faux-fur jackets, teddy coats, padded puffers, retro ski jackets - they’re the instant elevation that turns functional warmth into a full look.
Comfy Pants
These days, ski pants, sweatpants, and comfy trousers come in as many styles as denim, giving you an almost endless array of options for your après-ski costume. We particularly love all-in-one pieces that keep you warm on the slopes and can be easily pulled halfway down for a stylish twist on an après-ski party outfit.
Legging-like pants, such as the High-waist ribbed trousers Penelope from House of Dagmar, offer a sleek, sporty look that pairs wonderfully with an oversized knit. Meanwhile, the Fine Knit sweatpants from FTC bring just the right laid-back vibe, perfect for those high-altitude hangouts.
A mini skirt with thick tights and an oversized jumper or sweatshirt is one of the cutest, easiest combinations out there.
Classic beanies are a must for a ski trip, and just as essential for après ski. Beanies add personality without even trying: just think about chunky colourful knits, pom-poms, and vintage logos.
Parkas
When down jackets fall short in frigid mountain weather, that's where a parka shines. While parkas offer that same après-ski vibe, they provide significantly better protection thanks to specialized membranes and thoughtfully designed features.
Moose Knuckles creates exceptional outerwear, including parkas that combine practical winter functionality with contemporary style. For icy conditions, consider the Fur-trim Down Parka Sunwapta.
Knit Cardigans
Our collection of après-ski knitwear features more than just sweaters; it also includes stylish cardigans. Whether you prefer buttoned, zipped, or open styles, knit cardigans perfectly fit this cozy aesthetic.
Take, for instance, the Contrast Stitch Cardigan Joline from Lisa Yang. This cute piece boasts a charming patterned trim that captures the ski spirit, adding a distinctive touch to your everyday outfit. If you're leaning towards a more minimalist look, the Long Cashmere Cardigan from FTC is a fantastic option.
aprés-ski aesthetic | internet fashion trends explained ❄️ winter outfit ideas
Long-Sleeves
An essential addition to your après-ski wardrobe is a basic neutral long-sleeve top. These serve as effective heat-trapping and moisture-wicking layers that can be worn underneath your cozy sweaters or knit cardigans.
Ideally, you should look for slim-fitting long sleeves in neutral colors crafted from breathable fabrics like wool or cashmere. Options like the Merino turtleneck top from House of Dagmar or the versatile Roundneck fine-knit top Rowen from Lisa Yang work wonderfully for layering.
You’ll need to have a warm base layer that keeps you toasty without adding too much bulk. Consider choosing ribbed rollnecks, slim thermals or sleek long sleeves.
Hoods
Textures play a vital role in after-ski fashion, especially when paired with hooded designs. Fabrics like faux fur, sherpa, boucle, and brushed materials convey a glamorous sense of coziness.
For instance, the Sherpa hoodie Holland from Moose Knuckles serves beautifully as an outer layer or can be layered beneath a puffer jacket. For a more laid-back option, the Hooded bouclé sweater Ivy from Lisa Yang offers a stylish twist on conventional sweaters.
Scarves
How about après-ski must-have accessories? You definitely can't skip a good scarf! They should be cozy, stylish, and really pull your whole outfit together. A great minimalist pick is the Knit Cashmere Scarf Paris from Lisa Yang - it's made from soft cashmere in a trendy grey color.
If you're into patterns, check out the Logo-Pattern Scarf Bambino from Holzweiler; its fashionable design stands out.
Hats
Don't forget to pack a cozy hat for your ski vacations! Consider a simple yet stylish Cashmere bouclé beanie from Lisa Yang, which pairs effortlessly with any outfit. Alternatively, the Ribbed-knit cashmere beanie Martigny offers a more sporty and neutral option.
If you're after a relaxed vibe, take a look at the Turn-up knitted beanie from FTC, available in a range of charming colors.
Balaclavas
Balaclavas have long been a staple of après-ski fashion, but they've recently made a splash in the latest winter trends, allowing you to embrace two style statements with a single accessory-how cool is that? For a classy touch, consider the Balaclava hood from FTC, which features a sleek silhouette in an elegant ivory hue.
Outfit Ideas
Here are some specific outfit ideas to inspire your après-ski look:
- Black Base Layer and Puffer Jacket: Start with a sleek black base layer or catsuit. Add a printed puffer, warm socks, and shearling boots.
- Chocolate Brown with Faux Fur: A chocolate brown base layer feels chic. The faux fur coat adds that boujee ski lodge vibe. And the Moon Boots are such an Apres Ski trend right now.
- Cream on Cream Layers: A cozy cable knit sweater, ivory snow pants, and a faux fur jacket are so ski chateau chic.
- Ski Graphic Sweater and Bibs: Black ski bibs with a graphic sweater is such a vibe. Layer it over a fitted base layer and throw on some chunky boots.
- Black and Brown Luxe: Go for all black with one pop of rich brown. Style with a faux fur coat, black ski pants, and Moon Boots. The Moncler beanie and silver belt buckle just elevate it.
- Cozy Fair Isle Layers: Start with an oversized fair isle half-zip and black leggings. Add a long teddy coat, mittens, and your chunkiest boots.
- Red and Black Pop: Mix a red puffer with a fair isle sweater, black ski pants, and a cute "Apres" beanie.
- Gray Knit Set: A soft knit matching set with a long puffer and slippers is all you need. Add a cute bag and fluffy earmuffs for the full look.
- Silver and Black Bibs: Go for black bibs with a metallic silver puffer. Underneath, layer a soft "apres" sweatshirt and warm socks. Add fur boots and mittens.
In summary, après-ski fashion is all about balancing comfort, warmth, and style. Whether you're hitting a slopeside bar or relaxing by the fire, these outfit ideas will keep you looking chic and feeling cozy.
So if you’re heading to the mountains this winter, don’t stress about what to wear anymore! I rounded up some cute apres ski outfits that are comfy, warm, and give all the cool party girl in Aspen vibes.
FAQ about Apres Ski
What Is Apres Ski?
Pronounced "ap-ray ski," the term literally translates from French as "after ski." It refers to all the activities you engage in once your day of skiing or snowboarding ends. First coined in the Alps during the 1950s, après-ski has become an integral part of the holiday experience, just as essential as hitting the slopes.
When people mention après-ski, they often think about relaxing in cozy, slopeside bars. Many of the best spots are conveniently located at the base of the runs, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned skiers alike. Plus, you can usually hop on cable cars and gondolas as a pedestrian, allowing you to explore mountain venues without needing to ski.
What is the Apres Ski dress code?
There's no formal dress code for après-ski, but it's a look that doesn't come around often-unless you happen to live in a ski town, of course. Check out our list of must-haves to get familiar with this stylish vibe.
How To Dress for an Après-Ski Party?
Imagine vibrant ski jackets, cozy fur-lined boots, and snug knit hats. When it comes to après ski, the goal is to look chic while still being able to move and dance freely. Choose stylish ski pants paired with a fitted sweater or a thick knit crop top, and complete your outfit with an eye-catching coat or jacket.
What Shoes Do You Wear at Après-Ski?
Après-ski snow boots and hiking boots are essential for keeping your feet warm and dry in snowy conditions, whether out on the slopes or enjoying some time off the mountain.
Can You Wear Jeans at a Ski Resort?
Steer clear of wearing jeans while skiing or snowboarding. Jeans will leave you feeling chilly, soggy, and out of place on the slopes. This is a common mistake many people make, and it's a significant fashion blunder in ski attire.
Can You Wear Normal Clothes To Ski?
We strongly suggest you avoid wearing cotton clothing - pants, sweatshirts, and so on - close to your skin since it will retain sweat and make you cold. This drastically declines comfort while expanding your danger of hypothermia.
Can I Ski in a Puffer Jacket?
Modern puffer jackets are often made from moisture-wicking materials that help keep wearers dry and comfortable during physical activities. This is particularly important for skiing, where the body generates heat and sweat, potentially leading to discomfort if not properly managed. Puffer jackets can be worn as a mid-layer or outer layer, making them a versatile choice for various winter activities. This adaptability can help reduce the need for multiple layers, making it easier to switch between different activities.