The Essential Après-Ski Wardrobe
This season, alpine style is reimagined through the icons of the winter collection. Brought to life through rich texture and a pristine palette, après ski-inspired pieces usher in the season of layering – creating a wardrobe that’s as polished as it is practical.
Defined by thoughtful construction, premium materials and versatile silhouettes, each piece is designed to work in harmony, creating a cohesive approach to cold-weather dressing. Layering becomes both a practical choice and a styling opportunity, while winter-inspired patterns and tactile yarns add interest to every ski outfit.
Après-ski outfit ideas
Elevated lodge looks
The heart of après-ski style lies in its ability to feel polished yet relaxed. A chunky wool knit serves as the foundation of this look, providing warmth and texture. Layer it over tailored wool trousers in neutral tones, allowing the fabric's natural drape to create clean, sophisticated lines.
An oversized fur-effect coat elevates simple outfits, lending visual interest and warmth. Complete the look with sunglasses, wool socks and a pair of leather boots.
Cosy winter minimalism
After a day outdoors or on the slopes, lounge dressing takes priority. A matching knit set in soft merino wool creates a cohesive silhouette that feels intentionally styled yet leisure-inspired.
Sets in neutral tones offer versatility, paired with cashmere socks for ultimate warmth. The beauty of coordinating pieces lies in their adaptability – wear them together for a tonal look, or as separates to form the foundation of alpine outfits. This pared-back approach to après-ski dressing celebrates simplicity while maintaining sophistication for indoor gatherings.
Statement alpine dressing
Whether staying indoors or attending evening events, bold knitwear is the perfect addition to the après-ski wardrobe. The COS knitwear collection spotlights oversized jumpers in rich jewel tones and traditional Fair Isle patterns, combining heritage design codes with contemporary silhouettes.
The key to mastering this look is considered proportions – an exaggerated silhouette on top can be balanced by a more refined shape below. Pair sculptural or oversized knits with straight-leg trousers to create a sense of visual harmony.
Après-ski accessories
The right accessories complete the alpine wardrobe, adding the finishing touches to every look. Sunglasses with UV protection are non-negotiable in the winter sun. Opt for classic shapes in tortoiseshell or black that complement your outerwear.
Wool beanies in tonal shades or statement colours provide essential warmth, while ribbed or cable-knit styles add texture to your outfit. Chunky scarves in cashmere or wool blends offer versatility – worn loose for a relaxed feel or wrapped up.
Leather gloves lined with cashmere keep your hands warm while maintaining a refined aesthetic. Socks in merino wool or cashmere-blends provide insulation and moisture-wicking benefits, essential for long days in boots.
Après-ski evening dressing
An evening in the mountains calls for pieces that transition effortlessly from dinner to dancing. Slim merino knits offer a refined base layer for evening, elegant enough to wear on their own or under a structured blazer. Textured gilets provide warmth without overwhelming your silhouette, while heeled leather boots add polish. Consider winter dresses in heavier fabrics such as wool or velvet, styled with tights and knee-high boots.
Alpine layering tips
Understanding the fundamentals of layering can transform your approach to winter dressing. Layering lightweight base, mid and outer layers allows your body to regulate temperature efficiently while maintaining a streamlined silhouette.
Base layers
The foundation of effective layering begins with lightweight, breathable base layers. Merino wool tops in neutral tones offer natural temperature regulation. Similarly, fine-knit tops provide a smooth baseline under heavier knits. These base layers form the invisible architecture of your après-ski wardrobe.
Mid-layers
Unlike base layers, mid-layers allow you to showcase your personal style. Oversized merino or cashmere knitwear provides insulation while maintaining the relaxed aesthetic that defines the apline-inspired wardrobe. Zipped wool cardigans offer versatility, as they can easily be removed when moving between indoor and outdoor settings.
Fair Isle patterns bring traditional heritage to modern dressing, with geometric motifs that add subtle colour. Alternatively, a textured cable-knit jumper in a neutral shade adds visual interest.
Outer layers
Your final layer faces the elements, making weatherproofing an essential consideration. Oversized puffer coats in smooth nylon offer maximum insulation. Outerwear styles with adjustable waists or belt details create definition, while relaxed wool coats in versatile colours complement the winter wardrobe, ensuring maximum wearability throughout the season.
Colour and texture inspiration
The alpine palette draws inspiration from its surroundings – deep forest greens, stone greys and snow whites. This season, bold red emerges as a standout accent colour, adding energy and warmth to winter looks. Whether in a statement coat or chunky knit, red has a striking visual impact.
Warm neutrals like oatmeal, camel and ivory create tonal looks that feel modern and timeless. These shades pair seamlessly together, allowing you to mix pieces. Navy anchors any look with its classic versatility, providing depth.
Take inspiration from ski outfits for women to build your winter capsule wardrobe.
