What to Wear to Après-Ski: Style Meets Comfort in the Mountains

For many skiers, après-ski is one of the most enjoyable parts of a ski holiday – the moment when the pace slows, the layers come off and you relive the day’s adventures on the slopes with friends and family.

For some, après-ski means skiing straight into a lively bar and staying exactly as they are – ski boots, salopettes and all. For others, it’s a chance to head back, change into something a little more comfortable and stylish, and enjoy the rest of the afternoon or evening at a more relaxed pace.

From cosy mountain bars to sun-soaked terraces, après-ski style is all about dressing for warmth, comfort and atmosphere. In this guide, we share what to wear to après-ski – whether you stay in your ski gear or change into something more relaxed and stylish – while striking that perfect balance of understated Alpine style.

Even off the slopes, temperatures can drop quickly once the sun disappears behind the peaks. If you’re lingering outside on a terrace later in the afternoon, it can feel particularly chilly. The secret is to aim for layers that are warm, easy to move in and comfortable for sitting, standing and socialising.

A high-quality merino or thermal base layer keeps you warm without overheating and fabrics like merino are ideal as they stay fresh even after a long ski day. We’re big fans of British-made Snow Finel for exactly this reason.

Fine knit jumpers or lightweight roll-necks work beautifully for après-ski settings, adding warmth without bulk. Après-ski is about comfort first.

Après-ski footwear needs to cope with ice, snow and cobbled resort streets – without sacrificing style.

Winter boots with good grip are essential, particularly later in the day when paths can become icy. Chunky snow boots such as Sorels may not always be the glamorous choice, but they’re hard to beat for warmth, grip and all-day comfort. If you’re looking for something a little more refined, shearling-lined leather boots from brands like Penelope Chilvers and Bobbies offer a stylish alternative while still standing up well to snowy resort streets.

Avoid smooth soles or anything too delicate – après-ski often turns into longer evenings than planned and comfort really matters here.

If you’ve finished skiing for the day and have time to return to your accommodation, changing clothes can make the après-ski experience far more comfortable.

Think warm leggings or jeans, chunky snow boots, a cosy jumper, a winter jacket and a toasty hat. Brands such as Perfect Moment and Poivre Blanc strike a lovely balance between style and practicality.

And if you’re after something a little more Emily-in-Paris après-chic, Goldbergh is a great place to look – perfect for those who enjoy a more fashion-forward Alpine look, as seen on the slopes of Megève in Season 4.

Don’t forget sunglasses, either – if you stop for après-ski earlier in the afternoon, you’ll often still be enjoying bright sunshine on outdoor terraces and ski goggles definitely aren’t the look at this point.

• When you arrive at busy bars or restaurants, split your skis with a friend rather than leaving them together. It helps avoid mix-ups – just remember where you’ve left them, especially if you’re planning to make the most of the après drinks.
• Tuck your ski goggles and gloves inside your helmet to keep them safe from scratches or getting lost in the bustle.
• If you ski with a rucksack and have the space, packing a pair of trainers can be a game-changer for comfort once the boots come off.
• Don’t forget a warm hat – dancing in a ski helmet isn’t fun.
• Finally, we don’t recommend skiing or snowboarding after a few too many vins chauds or beers. If you’re enjoying après at a mountain venue, take the ski lift back down where possible. La Folie Douce in Val d’Isère is a great example, with the gondola back to La Daille right next door – and it also means non-skiers can join the fun with a pedestrian pass.

What do people usually wear to après-ski?

Some people stay in their ski gear and ski boots, while others head back to change into warmer, more comfortable clothes such as jumpers, jeans, winter boots and a cosy jacket.

Do you need special clothes for après-ski?

Not necessarily – it’s more about layers, warmth and footwear with good grip. Comfort always comes first, especially if you’re outside or staying out later.

Can non-skiers enjoy après-ski?

Yes – many mountain venues are accessible by lift or pedestrian pass, making après-ski just as enjoyable for non-skiers.

Whether your idea of après-ski is dancing in ski boots at Cocorico’s, lingering over a drink on a sunny terrace, or soaking in a hot tub under the stars as the evening draws in, there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy it, it’s all part of the mountain experience.

For families, that freedom matters too. With our flexible ski nanny service, parents can enjoy a well-earned drink or two at the end of the ski day, knowing the children are happily entertained, well looked after and having just as much fun of their own.

And if you’d rather unwind back at your chalet, our luxury catered chalets offer the perfect setting. Think cosy fires and squishy sofas, a glass of something cold, homemade cake waiting on your return and the comfort of knowing everything is taken care of so you can relax, reconnect and enjoy the mountains at your own pace.

However you choose to enjoy après-ski, it’s these moments – relaxed, unhurried and shared – that make a ski holiday in the Alps truly special.