Après Ski Outfits: The Complete Guide to Looking Chic Off the Slopes
Master the Art of Post-Slope Style With Expert Outfit Ideas, Must-Have Pieces, and Styling Tips

When you’re taking a ski trip, hitting the slopes is just part of the fun. After an exciting day spent racing downhill, you’ll want to cozy up with friends, so why not bring a little alpine glamour to the party? Come direct from the slopes in your puffer, slip on your most luxurious casual wear, or channel a movie star vibe (à la Charade) to celebrate life in the snow. Whether you’re sharing fondue at a Swiss chalet or sipping champagne in Aspen, you can dress to match the mood in bold statement jackets, soft sweaters, and comfy boots. The secret to the perfect après ski outfit is mixing practical yet stylish wardrobe essentials that will keep you warm and chic, wherever you’re headed this season. (Image credit: @chloevandenbussche)
What Is Après Ski?
Après ski is shorthand for socializing after a day on the slopes. It started in Norway but got its name when small villages in the French Alps started hosting “après ski” at snowcapped resorts. Modern après ski culture blossomed in the 1950s when gathering by the fire with hot drinks became a ritual, and rustic fashion became a mark of relaxed elegance. Soon, the good times spread around the world to Austrian and Swiss lodges, Italian rifugi, American ski clubs, Japanese ryokans, and Chilean hotels.
Today’s après ski scenes take on the character of their location whether it's the designer after-ski clothing and dancing at Val d’Isère, bright puffers at a St. Anton am Arlberg beer hall fête, or sweaters for poutine at Mont-Tremblant.
When it comes to après ski outfits, there are no true rules or dress codes; some people just swap their helmets for beanies and skis for moon boots and head to the bar, even in upscale settings. The music, eating, drinking, and dancing usually get going when the lifts shut down with a toast to Ullr, the Norse god of snow, and continue into the night.
The Après Ski Outfit Formula
Creating smart-looking ski trip outfits is all about coordinating eye-catching layers. Whether you’re coming in straight from the mountain or taking time to freshen up, you can build your look with après ski essentials that balance warmth, comfort, and style. Leave your skis outside, swap out your shoes, and get ready to socialize.
These key pieces will work across all styles and price points:
- Base Layer: Start with a warm and sleek pair of thermal leggings or slim ski pants and a fitted turtleneck in a technical fabric or merino wool.
- Mid-Layer: Make your look your own with an oversized cashmere sweater, an updated Fair Isle knit, or a fleece pullover that evokes the '90s.
- Statement Outer Layer: Define your look with a standout puffer jacket, fluffy faux fur coat, or shearling-trimmed parka.
- The Bottom Half: Pull on sleek, lined leggings or transitional ski pants for outdoor revelry, or change into wide-leg knit pants or easygoing jeans for relaxing inside.
- Footwear: Banish your damp socks, and step into some grip-sole shoes or iconic Moon Boots. Get bonus points for shearling-lined options; get an easy-on pair and wear them all winter.
- Finishing Touches: No outfit is complete without the beanies, scarves, mittens, sunglasses, and crossbody bags that pull your look together.
In the sections ahead, we’ll share our favorite outfit ideas, with tips on how to wear them.
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Statement Outerwear That Defines Your Look

@hollyjoannnewhite
Every après ski wardrobe needs a cool jacket that will look great with all your ski pants. This season’s most fashionable silhouettes include fitted puffers, oversized faux fur jackets, and retro options that everyone will notice.
We’re especially fond of these styles. (Image credit: @hollyjoannnewhite)
Puffer Jacket
Red puffers are ski-wear classics that photograph beautifully against snow in any setting. If you’re looking for something different, sapphire blue, mustard gold, and this season’s trending pastels and metallic finishes will look fantastic at La Folie Douce in Méribel or an exclusive party in Cortina d'Ampezzo. For added dimension, pick out a belted or quilted option, and be sure to check out our top 10 puffer jackets.
Faux Fur Coat
The opulent "mob wife" aesthetic is in for après-ski, and oversized faux fur jackets and coats will bring the glam to Aspen or St. Moritz. Try a soft winter white or lynx-print number with streamlined base layers, like a slim turtleneck and high-waisted ski pants.
Shearling Jacket
Belted shearling jackets offer that perfect luxe-rustic vibe for Gstaad, Vail, and Jackson Hole. Lush textures, broad collars, and aviator-inspired details will keep you cozy and provide maximum impact.
Retro Ski Jackets
Bring back the '80s and ‘90s with patterned and color-blocked vintage-inspired ski jackets that work well wherever the scene is lively and youthful, anywhere in the world.
Style Tip: Dress for the setting—prioritize warmth and weather resistance for outdoor gatherings and lighter-weight trendy pieces for indoors. Try to match the mood of the venue whether casual or luxe.
The Perfect Après Ski Sweater

vestique
If the jacket is your statement, the sweater is your personality. Get playful in a slogan sweater, nostalgic in this season’s fair isle patterns, or telegraph ease in a fleece.
Fair Isle Is Back
This classic alpine pattern is having a major moment. Fair Isle sweaters bring ‘70s ski lodge energy in warm browns and neutrals, and traditional colors like burgundy and navy will give your look a heritage feel. If you want to channel the life of a retro snow bunny, go with vibrant geometric patterns and pastel accents. Pair with leggings and Moon Boots for quintessential après ski vibes.
Cashmere Investment Pieces
Grand, enveloping cashmere sweaters are the ultimate indulgence for après ski. Layer yours over a thermal, and stick to neutrals like cream, camel, and charcoal for maximum versatility. For maximum luxe, pick a thick, high-ply investment piece from an Italian brand like Kiton.
Slogan Sweaters
Sweaters with slogans like “Ski,” "Après All Day," or resort names like “St. Moritz” lean into the meta fun of après culture and look great in photos; plus, they're conversation starters at the lodge bar.
Fleece Pullovers
Technical fleece has gone fashion-forward, with Patagonia's Retro-X style setting the tone for a sporty-chic aesthetic that ties back to freeride culture. Today’s stylish options take you from the slopes to the lodge with minimal effort. Columbia and The North Face make sought-after styles with high-pile textures and ‘90s-inspired colored accents.
Styling Tip: Size up for that coveted oversized fit and then balance proportions with fitted or slim bottoms.
Bottoms That Transition From Slopes to Social

@marine_breadwhite
The lower half of your après ski outfit is your base, and it needs to take you everywhere. (Image credit: @marine_breadwhite)
Thermal Leggings
Trim and toasty fleece-lined leggings are the MVP of après ski bottoms. High-waisted styles will give a streamlined silhouette under cropped puffers and oversized sweaters. For a sporty-retro touch that’s so hot right now, show up in a pair of stirrup leggings.
Ski Pants That Work Double Duty
If you're going straight from the last run to the first drink, modern slim-fit ski pants in neutral colors like black, cream, and chocolate brown look intentional rather than "just off the mountain." Pair with a chic sweater and swap your skis for chic après boots.
Denim for Indoor Après
Though they’re a no-no for the damp outdoors, jeans can work well for cozy indoor settings. Choose heavier-weight denim that suits the climate; we think darker washes photograph better and feel more evening-appropriate. Remember—avoid wearing jeans ON the slopes—they'll soak up melted snow.
Wide-Leg Knit Pants
For a cozy-cute option, you can’t go wrong with wide-leg knit trousers. Ribbed or cable textures and cotton velour offer comfort while looking dressed up enough for dinner.
Footwear: Alpine Style

@alabamaoutdoorsofficial
When you’re running around in the village, you’ll need comfortable, warm footwear that will keep your feet dry. (Image credit: @alabamaoutdoorsofficial)
Moon Boots Are Iconic
These puffy, space-age boots are back with serious fashion cred; just check out high-fashion collabs with designers like Jacquemus. Available in metallics, glossy patent leather, and classic nylon, they work well with leggings or ski pants.
Boots With Grip
Whatever ski destination you’re headed for this winter, you can’t go wrong with winter boots that combine fashion and function. Look for grippy rubber soles (essential for icy lodge walkways) and insulated or shearling linings for warmth. Pick from sporty options in light or neutral colors, or go glam in faux fur.
Shearling-Lined Everything
From sleek leather boots to slip-on booties, textured shearling dominates après ski footwear. Look for brands that use real shearling like UGGS, the natural insulation keeps toes toasty during outdoor patio sessions while maintaining a luxe aesthetic.
Styling Tip: Match your boots to your vibe for cohesive looks. Go futuristic with white moon boots, or create a vintage-inspired look with faux fur trim.
Accessories That Complete the Look

@brittramjit
For a total look, you can’t leave out the accessories. Your hat, scarf, bag, sunnies, and gloves are details that take an après ski outfit from functional to unforgettable. (Image credit: @brittramjit)
Beanies and Winter Hats
Beyond keeping your head warm, headwear adds personality. Classic knit beanies work for everyone, fuzzy bucket hats bring playful energy, and faux fur pillbox hats lean luxe. This year, try big, slouchy caps rather than tight, fitted styles.
Statement-Making Scarves
Faux fur scarves are having a moment, and they’re trendier than the usual check-print styles. If fur isn’t your thing, consider wearing a wide, fringed scarf in a bold color with a neutral coat. For elevated après settings, throw a cashmere wrap over your shoulders.
The Right Bag
Skip bulky totes that become cumbersome in snowy crowds. Crossbody bags or mini bags keep your hands free and look sharp. Pick sturdy materials like quality leather, coated canvas, and quilted nylon that can handle the weather.
Sunglasses and Gloves
Protect yourself from the elements in style—aviators channel vintage ski vibes while black-framed sunglasses look very Audrey Hepburn in the French Alps. Leather gloves with cashmere or shearling lining add subtle luxury.
Where to Shop for Après Ski Attire
Après ski is a fantasy, sure, but you can find great après ski clothing for your wardrobe at every price point.
Luxury Investment Pieces
Perfect Moment, Moncler (especially the Grenoble line), Goldbergh, Fusalp, and Cordova are some of the brands to know, offering high-end ski apparel with impeccable construction. Expect to invest $300-$800 for statement coats and $200-$500 for sweaters. Check Net-a-Porter and Saks Fifth Avenue for a curated selection, and take the edge off your purchase with a Saks promo code.
Mid-Range Quality
Our mid-range picks are classics for a reason. Patagonia offers stylish technical performance fleece while Columbia offers functional pieces at accessible prices. J.Crew hits the sweet spot for post-slope ski boots and sweaters, and Varley delivers elevated athleisure that’s perfect for lodge lounging. Even better, you can get a great discount with a J.Crew promo code or a Patagonia coupon.
Accessible Budget Options
While fast fashion may not scream après ski culture, focusing on quality basics like thermal leggings, colorful beanies, and versatile puffers from retailers like UNIQLO allows you to mix high and low pieces effectively. Check out this UNIQLO promo code for a bonus discount on base layers and more.
Specialty Ski Retailers
Après ski is all about celebrating, so why not commemorate your trip with a special piece you can keep forever? Resort boutiques in destinations like Aspen, St. Moritz, and Courchevel offer unique pieces, and online shopping through specialty ski retailers can give you access to the same brands without the mountain markup.
Après Ski Outfit Tips and Styling Advice
Once you know your style and your destination, you can perfect your après ski party outfit.
Here are our expert tips for looking your best:
- Layer Strategically: Choose pieces that layer well without bulk. For safety, avoid wearing white on the slopes, but embrace it for lodge lounging.
- Prioritize Comfort: After spending hours in rigid ski boots, you need to wear comfortable footwear. Look for cushioned insoles and arch support, not just style.
- Pack Versatile Pieces: For ski trips, bring versatile pieces you can mix and match with a statement puffer jacket and one great pair of après boots. Quality over quantity ensures you have room in your suitcase for actual ski gear.
- Match the Vibe: Pay attention to your destination's après culture. Ultra-luxury Aspen calls for more upscale looks. Laid-back Breckenridge allows for athletic-casual energy. European alpine resorts often lean more fashion-forward, luxe, and trendy.
- Don't Forget the Après Manicure: Winter nail art is a fun way to complete your aesthetic; think alpine-inspired designs, or paint on deep burgundy or classic red to match your puffer.
Mastering Après Ski Style: Your Complete Outfit Guide
Dressing up in the perfect après ski outfit is about balancing comfort, warmth, and fashion with stylish transitional pieces and statement-makers. Whether you prefer classic Fair Isle patterns or modern monochrome sophistication, the key is building a wardrobe around versatile foundation pieces that work across occasions. Current winter trends are all about self-expression, so have fun with your look and aim to feel good on the mountaintop. With the right components and outfit formulas, you’ll transition from slopes to social with effortless alpine chic every time.





















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