How to look good on the piste

  France, France
Friday, November 21, 2008

If you are a first-time skier thinking of booking a ski break in the French Alps this season and female, knowing what to wear, and shopping for the latest skiwear fashions can be quite overwhelming. Follow our style guide for girls to ensure you cut a dash on the slopes...



General rules

If you're a ski virgin, stick with bold colours and strong shades. Pastels and cream-coloured material whilst you are away is a faux-pas, unless you have a washing machine to hand!

Whilst we can't emphasise the importance of layering enough, the month you go really will dictate how much insulation you will need. Check predicted weather reports well in advance. Also, don't buy the most 'in' ski garment- this will usually outdate quickly, and once bitten by the ski bug you'll want to return and still look good next year!

Don't go for style at the expense of comfort. There is nothing worse than investing in clothes, which look great but fail to provide the right amount of insulation. Shivering in a cold, damp ski suit is not a good look. Clothes should enhance, not ruin the ski experience!

You may be the most fashionable winter bunny here at home, but beware. Winter clothes suitable for the city don't always transfer their functionality to the slopes. Ski gear is specifically designed to be waterproof, windproof and usually has some sort of breath-easy technology. The latest gloves from Topshop don't.



Jackets

1980s style all-in-ones have made a big comeback, but beware of the practicality problems (you don't want to spend more time than necessary wriggling out of it in the bathroom when you could be at the top of a mountain!)

Pockets are also a key feature to look for when purchasing a jacket. Make sure you have a few inner pockets, alongside at least two secure outer pockets in prominent places, such as your arm- for your ipod, phone and ski pass.

Jacket length is also important. If you do opt for a shorter jacket, make sure it's fitted at the waist to prevent any snow getting in. Similarly, ensure that the jacket is elasticised at the cuffs to prevent any heat coming out or snow coming in. Also ensure there is closure at the neck, and that the arms of the jacket stay in place when you lift your arms up.

Detachable sleeves and inner shells are down to personal preference, but can be a practical option - just ensure that no heat is escaping where the material joins.

Many skiers try to combine fashion with functionality by purchasing jackets with a fur trim. Whilst this may make you look like a perfect Russian Princess, it isn't practical. When fur gets wet it stays wet, and freezes. Not only will the look be ruined, but also it's unhealthy to wear damp clothing in cold temperatures unless you can help it! If you do like to opt for a bit of colour whilst on the slopes, invest in a jacket that has a bright fleecy trim.



Trousers

As the rise of the skinny jean invades our towns and cities, the drainpipe ski pants have also made a comeback on the piste. Whilst it may make you look like the resident snow queen, they aren't flattering on every body type, and practically speaking aren't ideal as it's hard to fit your essential long johns underneath. Our tip is to opt for a flattering boot cut in your trousers, that way; you can maintain a cool look and don't have to suffer against the cold. You could also invest in race pants; these also give you a flattening silhouette but also have a single thick layer of insulating material.

Underclothes
They may make you feel silly, but good quality thermal underclothes especially long johns are essential. If you feel odd buying them in a shop, this is where your handy internet connection should come in handy- shop online.

Also invest in some good quality basics such as long -sleeved t-shirts, lightweight polo necks, and breathable fleeces. And why not treat yourself to some extra woolly gloves to wear under your ski gloves.

For the evenings, also pack a cosy knitted cardigan or pashmina.



Sunglasses
These may look more chic than ski goggles but take note: if you are going to wear them whilst you ski, they should be the tightest garments you wear and relatively close to your face. They can be quite dangerous when you wipe out too, so take extra care. Our best tip is to invest in some great sunnies for posing on the terrace, and wear only goggles when skiing. Ensure either your ski goggles or sunglasses have UV protecting lenses, too.



Footwear
While not essential for the slopes, cashmere or delicately fleecy socks will make a luxurious addition to your ski wardrobe. Perfect for padding around your chalet in and for keeping your toes toasty in bed, they might also help detract you forget about your aching limbs!

When buying footwear for the slopes, always try shoes on with thick socks in the shop to ensure you get the right size. Just pop a pair of socks in your bag before you leave for the shops.

Uggs may have taken over our suburban pavements, but be careful about taking them away from you. They may keep your feet snug, but they aren't waterproof. It may be worth taking them to wear around the chalet but try not to wear them outdoors for too long.

Moonboots are also making a return appearance, and whilst they are waterproof, beware of wearing them around the terraces as their bulky structure makes them quite hard to swan around in.

Ski boots are an optional purchase if it is your first time skiing as decent brands worth investing in come at a high price. Ski boots can be rented until you've found your ski legs and know that you want to come back for more.



Hats
Considering the average person loses 30% of their body heat through their head, buying the right hat before you leave is essential. There is one city fashion that you may have invested in for winter already that can definitely be packed into your suitcase. The knitted or fleeced beanie is perfect for the slopes. Heavy enough to stay put, this little fashion gem covers your ears, keeps heat in, and dries relatively quickly.



Make-up
One of the liberating things about skiing is that going fresh-faced is de rigueur! You can ditch the eye make-up as your face will be obscured for most of the day. Use plenty of moisturiser in the evening, sunscreen during the day, and appreciate the benefits of all the fresh air hitting your skin! If you feel too naked with a bare face, take some high-quality bronzer with you, which can be swept over the cheekbones before you leave the chalet, alongside some long-lasting Chap Stick.

Looking for ski chalet bargains and cheap ski holidays in France? PV-Holidays offers a wide variety of self-catering apartments in resorts all over France. Each apartment or studio benefits from a dining and cooking area, and comfy beds.