THE CHALLENGE TO LOOK CHIC, YET SPORTY ON THE SLOPES.
As a kid, my parents adored outdoor life, which I enjoyed (and think is a great childhood) except for one crucial part: the practical outfits. Shoes that are made for walking and mud, coats that are made for wind and rain, trousers that are made for walking but not at all enhance any of your figure and it baffles me until this day; Why have so few brands found a balance between beauty and practicality?
Birgit Kos suits up, styled by Giovanna Battaglia Engelbert shot by Erik Torstensson for Vogue.
Looking back those trips always started with the same horror, a visit to the outdoors shop. It seemed then (and now) that you have two routes to go, first the practical one - forget a nice color palette, (what is it with this outdoorsy lilac everywhere?) but embrace comfort. The second (which I always opted for, sadly to my parents disbelief) is beauty but far away from comfort. This choice followed me into my teens, where high heels (yes they are not comfortable) became a big part of my wardrobe, followed by miniskirts (you can't sit) and tight high waisted jeans (you can't breathe), I guess had I been born in the 18th century corset had been an easy one to add to as well. Continuing my career path into fashion, comfort sadly never seemed to win over beauty.
1927 Vogue cover, featuring a chic ski outfit yet not so practical.
Outdoor activities growing up in Sweden included a lot of contact with snow, so when my now husband (then boyfriend) took me skiing first time together in Verbier (but by skiing, I mean skinning up a mountain for a couple of hours with a guide followed by another hour off piste skiing in the deepest nature and snow), he and the guide looked horrified when I proudly turned up in my Chloé ski outfit, all in blue with matching blue fur. The guide asked me gently, Is that waterproof? Whereabout I found the inside label reading cashmere and silk - dry clean only, I lightly declined. My boyfriend laughed and during the day my nickname was The Smurf.
Isabella AKA The Smurf, then proud in her Chloé non waterproof ski outfit.
Sadly here paired with a airbag (the guide insisted).
Realizing that if I was about to spend more time with this handsome, very into ski man, I had to step up my appearance. I looked around for inspiration only to realize that again there seemed to be only two types of women on the slopes; On one side you had the real sporty ones, in not very flattering outfits,(think low hanging trousers and oversized jackets) and far away from feminine, and on the other hand you had the non sporty ones, looking fabulous in their Perfect Moment gears but far away from outdoorsy. Again I was caught in the middle, there must have been some innovation since my childhood? I took on the challenge to find the perfect chic, yet sporty outfit and hope I can inspire you too.
SKI SHOPPING GUIDE
This iconic style combines technical know-how with an elegant esthetic. Crafted in bonded fleece stretch softshell with the Fusalp-approved membrane and DuPont Sorona® fiber, the model is extremely warm yet chic.
£1,090
This faux fur trimmed jumpsuit is cut in classic lines and offers a sleek appearance.
CHF 177
Insulated, water- and wind-proof, the Hainet ski jacket is a high performance yet beautiful design from the Grenoble collection.
Jacket CHF 1,765
Trousers CHF 840
Personally I love browsing for Vintage a bit everywhere, and ski suits are just fabulous - but make sure to read the label and ensure they are waterproof etc..
£391
Technical jumpsuit with waterproof fabric with a triple layer that combines outer coating with water-repelling membrane and is chic.
£ 119
This vegan leather trimmed jumpsuit is a elegant choice from the brands otherwise rather loud appearances.
CHF 645
These trousers are in classic style, but please do avoid white jacket. No snow storm has ever helped you be found.
CHF 249
If wearing black trousers, opt for a colourful statement jacket. This fire red one gives you both warmth and style.
CHF 395
Make the best of looking chic but also better for the planet, buy second hand on Vestiare like these unworn Moncler ski trousers.
£805
Activist brand Patagonia might not have the best colours but these black trousers is a perfect base.
CHF 454