FASHION’S PISTE DE RESISTANCE
From the slopes to the social scene, there’s plenty to like about the ski look
FORGET the thermals – it’s all about the leather pants, chunky knits, faux fur headbands and gloves on the ski fields.
With Australia enjoying one of its earliest and best ski seasons, fashion experts have revealed their tips on how to dress for the so-called “apresski” – meaning “after-ski”. Celebrity stylist Elliot Garnaut said key to apres-ski style was “about transitioning” from the slopes to the social scene. “They key to a chic apres look is incorporating your pieces from the slopes – your ski jacket becomes your going out jacket,” he said. “Ditch the thermals and skivvies from day and replace them with an oversized knitted turtleneck for evening. “Bye-bye helmet, woollen hat or beanie, replace your face-covering with your favourite scarf. It’s as simple as replacing your technical elements to those of fashion items.” Stylist Jess Pecoraro, who counts Jesinta Franklin and Kate Waterhouse among her clients, said cashmere turtlenecks layered with an oversized puffer vest was a “go-to look that can also be easily worn off the slopes”. “Wool suiting is also a great option for dinner looks. Brands such as Scanlan Theodore and Max Mara are a great go-to for a classic wool suiting and are pieces to always invest in,” Ms Pecoraro said.
“And you can’t forget a great set of thermals. Uniqlo are a go-to and, of course, a pop of colour with a bold lip can help elevate any look.” Vogue Australia fashion features director Alice Birrell said apres-ski style came to the fore in the 1960s, defining the seminal imagery of photographer Slim Aarons “who gained entry into the glorious and previously private world of the upper classes at play, apres-ski centred on the ski-adjacent social scene that exploded on the mountains of Switzerland, Austria and Italy”. “From cocktails on the slopes at ice bars, to stand-up picnics and drinks by the (heated) pool, there was an occasion to dress for and, continuing through to today, it demanded comfort as much as style,” Ms Birrell said.
So what is her style advice for this season? “Try a matching knit set – a jumper and long pants in monochrome or matching print. “Those who prefer the sportier side of ski are leaning into second-skin jumpsuits – think a modern catsuit worn under boots or leggings,” Ms Birrell said.
Los Angelesbased Australian luxury fashion expert Gab Waller said her clientele requested “unique pieces” to dress up their postskiing attire.
“In terms of luxury, all the big houses will do a ski capsule each year, with the likes of Chanel, Fendi and Prada. Chanel even did an apres pop-up in Aspen earlier this year,” Ms Waller said, speaking from her styling residency at luxury hotel, Jackalope.
“Then there are more functional brands like Moncler and A Perfect Moment that we’ll get lots of requests for.
“As always, whatever the celebs wear on their ski holidays tends to influence the slope style for the season. So, when Kendall Jenner wore New Zealand brand Entire Studio when snowboarding, we got several requests for their oversized puffers.”
Ms Waller pointed to the late Princess Diana – known for her daring snow outfits, including thick headbands and red snowsuits – as a leader in ski style.
“I’m a huge fan of the iconic looks by Princess Diana from the ’90s,” she said.
“My tip for great apres-ski style is definitely to stay warm but play with colour and accessories to accentuate your look. A bold ski goggle or helmet goes a long way to making a look pop.”