Apres Ski Costume
Hit the lodge in style with cozy, retro-inspired winter fashion.
Après-ski is the ultimate winter-themed look, capturing the social, stylish atmosphere of lounging at a mountain resort after a day on the slopes. People choose this costume for its perfect blend of cozy comfort, retro flair, and high-fashion winter aesthetics. The look consists of a bold knit sweater, a puffer vest or jacket, snow boots, and statement winter accessories like oversized sunglasses and a beanie.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- ~15 min
- Budget
- $40–120
Try it on
See yourself as Apres Ski
One clear photo of yourself; we render you in this costume — face untouched, full body, about 20 seconds.
One render, $1. No account needed — if it fails you're not charged. Pricing.
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Want a different costume on this photo, or a whole group in costume? Open the Try-On Studio.
What you need for a Apres Ski costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete Apres Ski costume — one box instead of 6 pieces.
Retro Knit Sweater
A thick, cozy sweater featuring a colorful Fair Isle, geometric, or vintage 80s ski pattern.
DIY: Use any colorful, chunky knit sweater you already own.
Puffer Vest or Jacket
A shiny or brightly colored down-style puffer vest to layer over the sweater.
DIY: A fleece zip-up jacket or a lightweight winter coat works as an alternative.
Leggings or Ski Pants
Fleece-lined black leggings, slim-fit ski pants, or retro stirrup pants.
DIY: Wear a pair of fitted black jeans or athletic leggings.
Snow Boots
Chunky, winter-ready snow boots, preferably with faux-fur trim or lace-up details.
DIY: Any thick-soled hiking boots or cozy shearling boots.
Oversized Sunglasses or Ski Goggles
Large, reflective shield sunglasses or colorful, mirrored ski goggles worn on the forehead.
DIY: Wear any sporty, wrap-around sunglasses you have.
Knit Beanie or Earmuffs
A pom-pom knit beanie or fluffy earmuffs to complete the cozy mountain look.
DIY: Any warm winter hat or headband.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Apres Ski costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Put on the base layer of fitted black leggings or slim pants.
- 2
Layer the colorful, patterned retro ski sweater over your base.
- 3
Add the bright puffer vest on top, leaving it unzipped to show off the sweater pattern.
- 4
Tuck your pants into a pair of chunky, lace-up snow boots.
- 5
Put on the knit pom-pom beanie, letting some hair frame your face.
- 6
Slide the oversized reflective sunglasses onto your face, or rest ski goggles on top of your beanie.
- 7
Optional: Carry a mug of hot cocoa or a vintage ski pass clipped to your vest zipper.
Makeup & hair
Keep makeup fresh and glowing with a touch of pink blush on the cheeks and nose for a 'just came in from the cold' flush. Hair can be styled in loose, casual waves peeking out from under the beanie, or in two cozy braids.
Apres Ski for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- One person wears a retro neon 80s one-piece ski suit, while the other wears a cozy, modern luxury lodge look with a cashmere sweater and designer snow boots.
- group
- Coordinate a retro '80s Ski Patrol' theme with matching neon windbreakers, fanny packs, and vintage ski goggles.
- kids
- A miniature version featuring a bright puffer jacket, tiny snow boots, a pom-pom hat, and small sporty sunglasses.
- Plus size
- Opt for a highly stretchable, fleece-lined legging paired with an oversized, chunky knit tunic sweater and an open puffer vest for a comfortable, flattering fit.
- pet
- A dog-sized knit sweater in a Fair Isle pattern paired with a tiny decorative winter hat.
Tips
- If wearing this to an indoor party, opt for a lightweight knit sweater and a vest instead of a full jacket so you don't overheat.
- For photos, hold a steaming mug, a pair of ski poles, or pose with a vintage wooden sled.
- Check local thrift stores first; they are packed with authentic 80s and 90s colorful ski sweaters and vests.
- Keep your lift ticket or a printed retro ski pass clipped to your jacket zipper for an authentic touch.
Apres Ski costume FAQ
- What is the dress code for an après-ski party?
- Après-ski fashion is all about cozy, stylish winter wear. Think retro knit sweaters, puffer vests, snow boots, beanies, and sporty sunglasses or ski goggles.
- Can I wear regular clothes for an après-ski costume?
- Yes! You can easily build this look using everyday winter items like a colorful sweater, leggings, winter boots, and a beanie, then accessorizing with sporty sunglasses.
- How do I make my après-ski outfit look retro?
- Focus on bright neon colors, bold geometric patterns, Fair Isle knits, and mirrored shield sunglasses reminiscent of 1980s ski resort fashion.
Did you know? The term 'après-ski' is French for 'after skiing' and originated in the Alps during the 1950s commercial ski boom, quickly evolving from a simple social hour into a major winter fashion subculture.