How to look good on the slopes

Maybe it’s because of the sport’s elitist tendencies, maybe it’s because everything looks chicer against fresh white snow, but the ski slopes provided the setting for some of best-dressed stars of the 20th century.

There’s Jackie Onassis as sleek as an Eartha Kitt catwoman in Aspen, King Charles as a youngster in Klosters wearing a jaunty neck scarf, and Valentino in Gstaad in luxurious shearling.

The benchmark, however, will always be Slim Aarons’ series of photographs of the jet set in winter retreats like Verbier and Telluride, his mission statement being to capture ‘attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places’.

Yes, dressing up to hit the slopes (and, more importantly, the après) is a pleasure, but practicality is also essential. So your ski suit is your bedrock: it’s how you dress it up that takes it from red runs to red wine by the fire. 

Always opt for a thin-gauge knit; a chunky Fair Isle might seem pleasingly Norman Rockwell-esque but it’ll become sweaty fast.

A lightweight scarf is advisable too, as long as it’s kept tucked inside the suit to prevent ski lift debacles (very Patsy and Eddie in Val-d’Isère). Steer clear of the logo-mania that’s taken over resorts in recent years; it marks you out as rather try-hard.

Post-slopes, the glorious roaring fires, aromatic gluhwein and blankets beckon. Only arrivistes dress up for après-ski; stick to well-made, solid boots with chunky socks and a cashmere knit or cardigan (that applies to both sexes). 

A proper scarf, obviously, and add a neat beanie hat – bobble hats are too infantile, and snowboarder hats with ear flaps too 
‘gap year’ for grown-ups – and you’re all set for a night of indulgence after your endeavours. 

Try these

Clockwise from top left: Down jacket, £510, Perfect Moment;  Base layer top, £80, Sweaty Betty; Trousers, £160, The North Face; Ski jacket, £495, Bogner; Ski goggles, £170, Chimi

Clockwise from top left: Insulated pants, £430, Arcteryx; Mohair jumper, £209, Percival x Harry Lambert; Snowboard jacket, £215, Montec; Heavyweight beanie, £22, Columbia; Sunglasses, £220, Vuarnet

Getting ready for a skiing holiday? You may want to read Telegraph ski expert Al Morgan's guides to the best ski helmets, best ski jackets, best ski goggles, best ski boots, best ski gloves and best ski socks of 2023 next.

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