Although Punxsutawney Phil claimed spring was just around the corner, we're having a hard time thinking warmer thoughts. Snow seems to be on the forecast every other day, and hitting the slopes is one of the only practical activities to participate in outdoors. For ski- and snowboard-lovers (or those who simply appreciate the crisp outdoors), conditions outside couldn't be better. What's happening indoors, though — particularly in your closet — is another story.The downside to a blizzard-plagued winter is that the weather seems to require its own specific wardrobe. And those technical pieces that save you on the mountain can feel like they're doing nothing but taking up space in your closet the rest of the time. Fortunately, ski pants, jackets, and other layers have become shockingly more flattering in recent years. So if you're still picturing fluorescent Michelin Man-style gear, you (and your collection) are due for a refresh.
These days, performance wear can go from ski lift to fireside in no time. And these down-filled, fleece-lined pieces and cozy layers can actually come in handy when it comes to making your trendier items actually work for frigid temps. Ahead, we've compiled four looks that help you seamlessly integrate these tricky space-takers into your everyday wear. Snow bunnies, this one's for you.
The Ski Pants
Ski pants in real life? Yes, we're serious — and it's mostly because Aether Apparel's options are more flattering than half the jeans we own. With a printed sweater, moto boots, and a cool crossbody, you'll be 10 times warmer than you would be in super-thin skinnies or leggings — and no one will know you're wearing performance-wear at all.
Aether Descent Pant, $375, available at Aether; Zara Leather Biker Boots with Buckles, $139, available at Zara; Michael Kors Cube Print Sweater, $849.25, available at Farfetch; Kara Large Stowaway, $440, available at Need Supply; & Other Stories Shimmery Socks, $10, available at & Other Stories.
The Insulated Puffer
While a hooded puffer coat is a great piece of outerwear on its own, it's also a practical layering piece for giving lighter-weight jackets and robes a bit of extra warmth. Since your outerwear will likely be the focal point of your ensemble, keep the rest of your look laid-back with a simple black trouser and heeled bootie that help things feel polished, rather than overly athletic.
Aether Shelter Hoodie, $265, available at Aether; Topshop Longline Wool Duster Coat, $160, available at Topshop; Aritzia Darontal Pant, $125, available at Aritzia; Rag & Bone Mod Tank, $125, available at Need Supply; Public Desire Sofie Black Heeled Ankle Boots, $52, available at ASOS.
The Performance Leggings
Slimmer silhouette performance bottoms make for a double-the-warmth alternative to regular leggings on super-cold blizzard days. Make them feel more like a regular piece of your wardrobe than a techincal item by pairing them with a contrasting pink bomber jacket (rather than a puffer) and printed kicks (instead of boots). A luxe take on the drawstring backpack completes this athleisure-inspired ensemble, without looking like you're actually about to hit the slopes.
Perfect Moment Aurora Skinny Pants, $350, available at Jans.com; Mango Satin Bomber Jacket, $99.99, available at Mango; T by Alexander Wang Ribbed Wool Turtleneck Sweater, $195 $137, available at Net-a-Porter; Nike FlyKnit Racer, $150, available at Nike; & Other Stories Drawstring Leather Backpack, $150, available at & Other Stories.
The Base Layer
If you're a frequent skiier, you probably have a stockpile of thermals and base layers for wearing underneath your snow suit, but have you considered wearing them on their own? Style a striped zip-up turtleneck with ripped-hem jeans to make it feel more on-trend, and complete the outfit with a slew of accessories: white platform sneakers, simple sunglasses, and a minimal cuff, for instance. This look is proof that you can be warm enough in chilly weather without having to get too bulky.
Fusalp Striped Stretch-jersey Top, $110, available at Net-a-Porter; Pixie Market Fringe Bottom Jeans, $89, available at Pixie Market; Charles & Keith Flatform Sneakers, $49, available at Charles & Keith; Le Specs Spartan, $79, available at Le Specs; Miansai Silver Thin Screw Cuff, $315, available at Need Supply.
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