While ski gear is designed and manufactured with practicality in mind, the fashion-forward require an element of style in everything they put on their body, even sportswear.
There’s nothing better than finding snow gear that perfectly reflects your personality and inner sense of style, whether that be ‘I only ever wear black’, ‘I’m a glitzy gal’ or ‘I like a bold colour’.
So, we picked the brains of top snow wear experts Ally May Carey, co-founder of fashion-forward ski label TRÈS Studios and Helly Hansen’s chief sales officer for Australia and New Zealand, Cameron Mahoney, on how to maximise style and comfort while shredding it up on the slopes.
What Are The Most Popular Ski Slope Trends?
We’re seeing a swing to more technical oversized ‘fits in Europe than in other parts of the world. This is what we tend to see the “seasoned skiers” leaning towards.
As a fashion-forward skier herself, Carey says not to be afraid to go for an all-in-one, whether that is a onesie or bib-style outerwear. Leaning into this retro aesthetic and referencing the 80s and 90s is a huge trend.
She explains, “Puffy styles are always on trend… and I don’t see this ever going out of fashion.”
This retro aesthetic can extend into your accessories for the slopes. Going for a “signature yellow lens” in your ski goggles is an easy way to achieve the look. If you might have seen your ski icon rocking the look 40 years ago, it’s probably a good shout. You know what they say about fashion, it always comes back in style.
Also, in case you didn’t already know, the key is layering, layering and more layering.
Carey has the process down pat. “I’d start with a TRÈS base layer top and bottom, as it’s merino, bamboo and copper; they’re an ultra-fine premium base layer, designed to regulate body temperature in all weather conditions, resists odours and will keep you warm, without overheating,” she says.
“I would then add a mid-layer and either a onesie or jacket and pants. Then of course gloves, ski socks, ski boots, a helmet (essential!!) and goggles.”
How To Get The Perfect Ski Jacket
Ski jackets are not created equally, with waterproofing, fabric choice and insulation all coming together to make a jacket you might love (or low-key hate).
A few key elements you should consider include:
Jacket membrane
When choosing a jacket, look for the words ‘waterproof’, ‘windproof’ and ‘breathable’. No one wants to be soggy or sweaty while carving it up on the slope. Mahoney suggests that you prioritise this in your decision-making process to be comfortable.
“There are a lot of membranes in the market, but better the membrane the more waterproof, and breathable the ski jacket is,” he says.
Insulation or shell
As Carey says, puffy, insulated styles are in, but it’s important to consider if a thin shell exterior layer with cosy undergarments is something you might prefer.
For Mahoney, the plus of a shell is that they can be very versatile and mixed with lighter or heavier layers depending on the weather.
If warmth is key to you, puffy insulation is the way to go. “The great insulated ski jackets have higher grade insulation (e.g. Primaloft), made from more recycled materials,” Mahoney explains. “Typically, a synthetic insulation is the preferred choice.”
Sustainability
As snow-goers tend to love the outdoors, being across the sustainability of your garments is likely important to you. Make sure that your snow gear is made using recycled materials and is PFC-free (per-fluorinated compounds) water repellent to be more environmentally friendly.
Helmet Compatibility
There’s no point having a super cute outfit if it doesn’t work with the rest of your gear. Mahoney suggests looking for jackets that are compatible with a wide range of ski helmets. It will also allow you to mix and match helmets from a fashion perspective too, it’s a win-win.
Features vs. Aesthetic
The aesthetic of your snow gear is super important, don’t get us wrong. Carey says to look for jackets and gear in a few key colourways, including neutrals, greens and purples.
“There is also the classic chic, black and white look which is always so popular,” she adds.
At the same time, Mahoney says there are a few checkboxes you should look to tick as well as ‘looks cute’.
“A great ski jacket has well thought out features, that are integrated into the jacket. From powder skirt to lift pass holder, goggle holder and cleaner, as well as a glove stash pocket,” he says.
Should I Buy Luxury Ski Wear?
We’ve seen designer fashion houses get their snowboots on, releasing fashion-forward collections made for the slopes. From Prada to Celine, it’s been so interesting to see this new high-end foray into sportswear for the brands.
The good news is that the big fashion houses are putting a lot of time and energy into making sure their offerings are not only stunning to look at, but also perform beautifully on the slopes.
Carey, as a designer herself, is a huge fan.
“The world of skiing is becoming more and more popular. There are some really beautiful pieces coming through! It’s exciting to see the brands do technical pieces,” she says.
The Best Stylist Ski Gear To Shop Now
Helly Hansen W Imperial Puffy Jacket, $480, Helly Hansen
The perfect jacket that will look just as chic shedding the slopes as it will going into town. One of the key callouts is its unique gold detailing, which stands out against the navy fabric. It’s waterproof, windproof and breathable, helmet compatible and comes with a ski pass pocket and powder skirt.
TRÈS Women’s Base Layer Top, $129.99, Snowsport
Made from breathable merino wool, rayon bamboo, copper infused cotton and elastane, this is the perfect soft under layer to keep you warm without overheating.
Cordova Avorias 1800 Striped Ski Suit, $1675, Net-A-Porter
This all-in-one combines retro 70s colour blocking in a water-repellent stretch fabric for ultimate comfort while you ski or snowboard. It has a fleece lining and is perfect for layering, and even comes with a phone pocket and resort pass pocket so you can stay organised.
Perfect Moment Aurora Houndstooth High-Rise Flared Ski Pants, $982, Net-A-Porter
This monochromatic houndstooth pant is both stylish and technical. It is made with a breathable Toray Dermizax™ shell that’s waterproof and has four-way stretch, and the flared hems are detailed with zips to so they’ll fit over your boots.
Shoreditch Ski Club Willow Puffer, $1326, Revolve
A neutral girl’s dream, this cosy puffer offers an oversized look and beige colour palette. It’s water-repellent, and great at making sure you’re not overly hot while still feeling protected from the elements.
Celine Logo-Jacquard Ski Goggles, $748, Matches Fashion
It’s hard to go past a cute pair of ski goggles, including this gorgeous pair from Celine, featuring studded acetate, a wide, adjustable logo-jacquard strap, ventilated foam padding and a silver reflective cylindrical lens.
P.E Nation St Moritz Colour-Block Ski Trousers, $610, Farfetch
Perfect to help you shred the slope no matter the elements, these trendy, colour-blocked trousers are water-resistant and windproof with built-in knee pads and flared cuffs for your boots.
The North Face Smith I/O MAG™ S Goggles, $400, The North Face
These goggles are a fab option with the highest level of anti-fog treatment and great low-light vision for more difficult conditions. The special lens boosts colour and contrast so you can see clearly in most weather.
The North Face Women’s Freedom Bib Lav Fog Tonal Mountainscape Print, $369, Anaconda
A great option for those who like a little extra freedom when they ski, it offers an all-round adjustable fit and uses recycled materials. It’s waterproof, breathable offers secure-zip pockets and articulated knees for better mobility.
Holden Hybrid Padded Down Trousers, $445, Farfetch
There’s nothing like a bit of padding to keep you warm and these pants are perfect for those who really feel the cold. Flowing seamlessly between your après ski and outdoor adventures, these pants are high-waisted and water-repellent.
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