I Want the Après-Ski Aesthetic on a Budget—28 Affordable Pieces on My List

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(Image credit: @sofiamcoelho)

Vacation makes everything more fun, especially getting dressed. And winter vacations are no exception. The culture and aesthetic of destination ski-resort towns like Aspen, Lake Tahoe, and Telluride have taken on a life of their own, particularly when it comes to fashion. 

From the slopes straight to the runway, designers have leaned into skicore, including quilting galore, kitschy snowsuits, and sportswear accessories. However, you don't have to plan a grandiose trip or splurge on a pair of Miu Miu puffer pants to execute this playful winter aesthetic. These trends have trickled down, and I'm looking to play with this trend in my daily winter wardrobe without the expensive price tags. 

I've broken down seven key trends that will help you get this après-ski aesthetic and picked the pieces that you need, on a budget. See my winter-wonderland shopping list below. 

Statement Puffers

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(Image credit: @marenschia )

There's nothing more key to a winter 'fit than your outerwear, whether on the slopes or on the sidewalk. Printed, bright, and/or metallic puffers are a fun way to spice up your winter look and are essential to making skicore work.

Knitted Hoods

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(Image credit: @nnennaechem)

Knitted hoods and balaclavas took the runways last season and immediately became a mainstay for après-ski style. Mine will be for walking the windy streets of New York City, but it's still just as practical.

Sporty Shades

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(Image credit: @ninasandbech)

You're guaranteed to look like you came straight off the slopes in these sporty frames. Opt for reflective lenses or monochromatic styles to get the look.

Puffer Snow Boots

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(Image credit: @sofiamcoelho)

I've been seeing these puffer boots everywhere from the powder to the pavement. This trend doesn't require an investment, especially if you're planning to use them more leisurely.

Fair Isle Sweaters

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(Image credit: @oliviamarcus)

The Fair Isle sweater is a quintessential winter piece for mountain getaways and holiday gatherings. Wear yours during a ski weekend or really any weekend this winter.

Blanket Scarves

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(Image credit: @thatgirlyusra)

A chunky blanket scarf is cozy, sophisticated, and hugely functional. Swaddle up in an oversize scarf all winter long, whether you're slope bound or not.

Fuzzy Hats

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(Image credit: @alyssainthecity)

Big snow-bunny energy with the fuzzy-hat trend. Cute, furry bucket hats are the best topper for winter looks. I've already snagged one that will be put to use all winter long. 

Next: These 30 Weather-Proof Shoes Are at the Pinnacle of Function and Fashion

Copelyn Bengel
Associate Shopping Editor

Copelyn is the associate shopping editor for Who What Wear based in New York City. She writes about fashion and accessory trends in addition to creating original content.

Before her time at Who What Wear, Copelyn was at Bustle Digital Group working on the accessory market for cover shoots and fashion features across Nylon, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Romper, and Elite Daily. Copelyn has also previously worked at InStyle and Cosmopolitan in the fashion and accessory departments on shopping and fashion market.

Copelyn has a journalism degree in editing and graphic design from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In her spare time, Copelyn freelances in graphic and web design in the fashion-and-lifestyle space. She also loves to upcycle clothing and home décor as well as collect an embarrassing number of colorful sneakers and experiment with her hair color.