Every year, the icy winds of winter bring with it a fresh, new approach to heavy, cold weather fashion. As the last two years have been all about quarantining in your comfortable PJs, when the most stylish people finally got a chance to break out of their homes–they, of course, did it in style.
Hitting the slopes in style
Understanding The Trend
As people emerged, there came about a whole new interest in gorpcore, which refers to garments designed for extreme outdoor weather being worn as streetwear. Whether you blame Lady Gaga’s 80s-inspired winter outfit in the first House of Gucci cast photo leased last year or the designers that featured ski-inspired attire at their Fall/Winter 2021 shows, skiwear is undoubtedly trending.
From Louis Vuitton’s recent holiday campaign that featured models skiing to Rossignol collaborating with Balmain for a special collection to Chanel showcasing some cool, new fashion-forward snowsuits, there is a new buzz in the fashion world and it’s about winter’s most glamorous sport–skiing. From puffy outerwear to figure-highlighting snowsuits to chic goggles, we love every single element of this nonchalant, fabulous trend.
To get you in the right spirit, we at AiSPi have broken down some of our favourite skiwear micro trends below and offered up some unique finds from our European designers as well! It’s time to skip the streets and instead make some new glamorous memories on the slopes this season.
The Warmest Knits
Layering up is the first step to putting together the perfect ski-ready outfit. And a stylish, ski sweater will do just the trick. We are here to tell you that knits are trending on and off the slopes. Whether you pair these chunky silhouettes with tight ski pants or layer under an oversized coat for the cold winds.
Frauenschuh
Founded in 1950 in Kitzbühel, this family business is known for timeless and luxurious fashion. This Austrian brand uses a combination of high-quality materials like knitted wool and leather to create beautiful designs for their range of Alpine ski fashion. Their jacquard knit cardigan has been made using the finest Merino Extrafine wool. Featuring oversized roll-neckline and a hidden 2-way zip, this loose fitting cardigan is comfortable to wear and instantly adds sophistication to your look.
Rossignol
For the past century, Rossignol has been setting the benchmark in winter sports, making skiing easier, more fun and fashionable. This French manufacturer is known for their many collaborations with fashion brands and designers, each of which has resulted in some truly unique designs. This Bessi top is the result of a collaboration between Jean-Charles de Castelbajac and the brand. He puts the bold and graphic signature on their classic design. The ski top is made of light, stretchy fabric with a cosy brushed interior for next-to-skin softness.
The Coolest Ski Suits
No longer just a forgotten 80s trend, ski suits are back in style and they are bolder than ever. Featuring vibrant prints and bright colours (neon if you really dare), these colour coordinated outfits are the retro skiwear style to wear right now. Invest in overalls that are comfortable and cosy while being elegant as well.
AirForce Sport
A dutch brand, that prides itself in expertise in sports. We love their edgy and sporty look that is combined with strong logo presence yet the pattern is as such that you just cannot tell. The monochrome star suits in white and red or the pairing of the checked logo ski onesie with a red jacket is our favourite.
The Puffer Jackets
If you’re planning to be out on the snow-covered slopes of the coldest countries, then these warm, winter jackets and vests are an essential to own. But these necessary garments don’t have to be boring! Pick from edgy cropped styles or printed, vibrant ones, you can choose how you want to make a skiwear statement.
Goosetech
This creative Italian outerwear brand combines innovative technology with eye-catching designs. Founded in Milan, Goosetech collections have been inspired by art, music, pop culture and technology. Their clothes have been manufactured in Italy, with extreme care for all details. We love their outerwear, especially this stunning jacket that has a transparent shell with coloured feathers. The combination of the classic black with the bright pink and orange is priceless.
Duvetica
Established in 2004, this Italian brand is known for its timeless style which has been shaped by premium padding. Their every collection is an expression of contemporary reinterpretation of their vision fuelled by research in materials, shapes and colours. Their urban designs put them at the forefront of fashion–especially outerwear. This Alizia down jacket has been made from water-repellent nylon, making it perfect for the slopes. It features their exclusive DVTA print with a graphic neon colour palette, which is guaranteed to make a statement on the slopes.
The Stylish Snow Boots
In the coldest winter snow, snuggly ski boots should be your first choice when putting together the perfect snow-ready outfit. Elegant, apres-ski boots are a great addition to any wardrobe. Glamorous moon boots to stylish chunky versions, AiSPi has some great recommendations.
Inuikii
This brand brings a fresh take on winter boots using sequins, fur, tartan and other. Launched in 2012 by Cinzia Maag, the footwear label’s collections are inspired by Greenland’s unique environment. Their original designs are highlighted by their high-quality materials, making them the go-to brand for bold winter boots. This white leather sneaker, which resembles the moon boot, provides ultimate comfort while protecting you from the harshest of weathers. It features an anti-slip rubber sole, snow-proof characteristics and inner lining made of European shearling. How would you style this?
Viole Blanche
This brand was launched in 2004, with the first model made from the fabric of sails, dacron. Each of their collections has since then been characterised by its innovative, linear style. With the spirit of exploration, the brand continues to strive towards achieving the best sartorial quality possible. Their Amice suede and faux shearling sneakers add a subtle sporty and sophisticated touch to any outfit. These tobacco-shade shoes feature an embroidered logo at the ankle and a custom thread tread-adorned tone-on-tone rubber box sole.
The Alpine Accessories
There are a few things you simply cannot go skiing without—your trusty gloves, and protective ski goggles are just a few. Accessories are a great way to elevate any ski look and they keep you extra warm as an added bonus! Plan your perfect winter day anyway you want, as these accessories will keep you warm and stylish from head to toe.
Shred
Also known as Shred Optics, this company manufactures everything you need for the ideal skiing experience and other outdoor recreational activities. These collections of sunglasses, helmets and goggles are widely appreciated in the world of adventure sports. Their Rarify goggles are designed for skiing and snowboarding. It includes two lenses—a ‘sun and clouds’ lens and a ‘snow and overcast’ lens, which features “NODISTORTION™ technology to enhance contrast and image definition while SHRED.wide™ maximises field of view, giving you the control, confidence, and style you need to reach the next level of performance and stoke.”
Hestra
Since 1936, Hestra has been developing gloves that provide warmth, protection and fingertip sensitivity. Launched by Martin Magnusson, the brand grew out of the timber forests of the uplands in the Swedish province of Småland. Today, the brand’s entire range now features over 400 styles. Their Patrol gloves are one of our favourites. Made from army goat leather, they feature a removable G-loft insulation and a pull strap with a velcro closure around the wrist. Available in an array of colours, these will keep your hands warm and comfortable as you spend countless hours on skis.
Frauenschuh
The fur collar is an accessory that every woman needs. You can attach it effortlessly to your Frauenschuh jackets and coats. It features a warm, cosy inside made from farmed Rex rabbit which feels smooth against your skin. The strap has been made from nappa leather and is closed with two press studs. Trust us, this elegant design will keep you warmer than any scarf!
Written by Team AiSPi
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