A last-minute ski trip with the girls can be a wonderful way to spend your downtime during winter. Cheap ski holidays are abundant and increasingly popular. However, actually enjoying a trip of this kind might require a little bit of advanced planning and preparation. For one thing, you’ll need to be able to pack quickly.
This might mean preparing your wardrobe well in advance of actually knowing where you’re going. But what does effective, stylish ski attire look like?
The Versatile Base Layer & Insulated Shell
Let’s start by considering the innermost layer you’ll be wearing: the base layer. This consists of thin, flexible garments, usually made from wool or synthetic fabric. Avoid things like cotton, which will retain moisture. The role of the base layer is to allow sweat to move away from the skin, while keeping you warm.
Next is the middle, insulating layer. This usually comprises a puffy vest or a fleece jacket. It will retain heat when the weather is cold. But, if it gets sunny, you’ll be able to remove it.
Finally, there’s the outermost layer of your ski attire, which is there to actually keep the snow away. You can either look for a jacket that matches your salopettes, or look for a way to contrast the two.
The Apres-Ski to Slope Hybrid
Many skiers will opt to stagger off the slope, straight into a bar, and spend hours there after they’re finished for the day. A better approach might be to look for clothing that’s stylish enough to be worn anywhere, and yet is practical enough to cope with a range of different conditions.
Merino wool and silk might work for your base layer, while a thick jacket or sweater might work as your top layer when you move into apres-ski activities, like eating out. You can don and discard your outermost ski jacket as the situation dictates.
You’ll also need to look after your extremities. While you’re on the slopes, a good helmet is a must; but you can swap this for a beanie once you leave. A pair of high-quality waterproof gloves might be worthwhile, too – just be sure to moisturise your hands before you leave the chalet.
The Monochromatic Power Look
One great way to keep your look coherent is to focus on one colour. Blacks and greys are a reliable choice. Remember that the range of available garments will be limited by practical considerations, and that you’ll only really be able to take one or two ski jackets with you. Going for black ski trousers and a jacket will allow your chosen accessories to add splashes of style and colour.
Max Comfort: The Softshell and Sweater Combo
If you want to stay as comfortable as possible, then thicker knits are the better option. Look for cosy, chunky knitwear. Wool and cashmere are good choices. This applies to your neck gaiter or balaclava, too, which can help to elevate a worn-out-looking jacket.