What to Pack and Wear for a Ski Holiday

A day on the slopes is only half the story. The real fun often begins when you kick off your boots and head for a well-earned drink and dance, the true spirit of après-ski. And the style that goes with it is one of our absolute favourites for winter.

The après-ski style is the perfect blend of practical warmth and effortless cool. Though you’ll find it in the cosy chalets of alpine resorts, you don’t need to be on a mountain to rock the look. It's an attitude and a feeling of relaxed confidence that’s perfect for any chilly day. 

Our blog is here to help you capture that mountain-chalet spirit, the Joe Browns way - full of colour, character, and a healthy dose of fun.

When putting together any cold weather look, you will want to master the art of layering. It's the most practical way to stay warm and comfortable, and a brilliant opportunity to show off your personality.

Your base layer should be something soft and breathable, like a comfortable long-sleeved tee or a classic men's Henley top. Next, your mid-layer is where you can really start to have some fun. A statement piece of men's knitwear or women's knitwear is the heart and soul of the après-ski look. Think a traditional Fair Isle pattern for a touch of vintage charm, a bold and colourful stripe, or a chunky cable-knit that’s as cosy as a hug. A zip-up fleece or a funnel-neck top is another fantastic choice that adds texture and warmth.

A winter jacket is the undisputed star of the skier and snowboarder look. It needs to be ready for the elements but, more importantly, it needs to be packed with personality.

For a classic, vibrant aesthetic, you can’t go wrong with a colourful puffer or padded parka from our collections of men's coats and women's coats. These jackets are warm, practical, and have a playful, retro feel. 

If you want a look with a more of a heritage vibe, then opt for a textured borg-lined jacket. Look for styles with a good, snug hood, a warm lining, and plenty of pockets for all your essentials.

When you’re kicking back after a long day, the last thing you want are restrictive trousers. While you might wear salopettes on the slopes, you can work something more relaxed at après-ski if you prefer. 

Rugged cargo trousers are a fantastic choice for men. These are durable, comfortable, and their practical pockets add to the authentic après-ski feel. A great pair of comfortable cords or even some lined jeans also work perfectly for both men and women. Choose a style that’s easy to move in and looks great with a pair of sturdy boots.

Complete your après-ski aesthetic with bold accessories. A vibrant, chunky beanie or a classic bobble hat from our men's accessories or women's accessories collections is a must-have for keeping your head warm and adding a pop of personality. A stand-out patterned scarf or a cosy snood is another essential for keeping the wind at bay.

And finally, your footwear needs to be up to the task. A pair of waterproof, comfortable men's boots or women's boots with a good grip is essential for navigating snowy paths or keeping your feet toasty on a chilly day.