Whether you are a city slicker or an alpine enthusiast, the conditions are perfect for sporting the après-ski look. No longer reserved for high altitude, urbanites are encouraged to give their cold-weather wardrobes an Aspen-worthy makeover. However, if you’re headed to Camp Fortune, Mont Cascades, or planning a weekend getaway to Mont Tremblant, you’ll find our carefully-crafted collection of performance attire will complement any style. Get ready to suit up with the runway’s best chalet chic looks.
RUNWAY TO REAL WAY
Thick argyle sweaters (think the 70s) made a big return this season on the fall/winter runways, updated to suit both city-slicker style and mountain wear. Louis Vuitton paired the classic cult sweater with a sixties leather skirt and Tommy Hilfiger took the more laid-back approach with styles featuring fringe detailing, plaid separates and ski goggles to top off the mountain chic look. More of a snow bunny than a blue run skier? You can still play up some of the classic styles found at the newly-opened Sporting Life in Lansdowne Park, which carries an array of fashionable, yet functional, ski attire. The ‘Après’ zip-up is a fun way to signal that after a long day on the hill, it’s time to cozy up with a cup of hot chocolate.
CELEBRITY INSPIRED
Take a cue from supermodel Elle Macpherson who makes resort wear look stylish yet simple. Start with the basics: thick leggings, a touch of plaid and layer with a chunky knit. For black diamond-level style on or off the slopes, keep yourself trimmed in luxe fur, nordic knits and stylish sweat-wicking base layers to elevate traditional ski cabin garb. It’s easy to play up chalet style by simply adding a plaid vest or if you’d prefer to make a statement and stand out in the crowd, this silver Hunter jacket is a top pick.
NEW DIGS
Harry Rosen’s renovated 18,000 square foot flagship store at the Rideau Centre is a nod to the developing fashion market in Ottawa. With stores like Holt Renfrew closing their doors and new players, such as Nordstrom making an entrance, Harry Rosen features a fresh interior design concept with new in-store boutiques, an expanded selection of designer fashion brands for men and The Shoe Shop — the retailer's first stand alone shoe department.
The leading menswear retailer has dominated the market for 60 years. With more than 40 per cent of the high-end menswear market in Canada and annual sales of $300 million, it understands exactly what men are looking for. Unlike department stores, Harry Rosen’s intimate and well-positioned layout makes it easy for shoppers to quickly find what they’re looking for. “We set out to build the best shopping experiences for men. Everything was designed with the delivery of our legendary customer service in mind” says Larry Rosen, CEO, Harry Rosen.
ALEX'S SKI TRIP FAVES
1. Warm Winter Coat from Canada Goose. | 2. iPhone 6 to capture the day. | 3. Frostbite-busting hand warmers for gloves and boots. | 4. Snowboarding at Lake Louise Ski Resort, Alberta | 5. Relaxing après-ski at the Banff Hot Springs.