Sweet Girl Model -Ski Wear Autumn - Winter 2009

There are few sports where looking stylish is almost more important than mastering the art, but, when it comes to celebrities, skiing ticks all the boxes. Who can forget Kate Moss’s take on alpine chic in a black all-in-one, or Gwen Stefani’s sport-luxe, brown-and-white, hooded jacket and trousers? What about Victoria “Yes, I may wearing sportswear, but I’m not going to relinquish my style crown” Beckham, in oversized sunnies and Chanel leather jacket and matching trousers?

On second thoughts, Beckham’s example, perhaps, isn’t one to condone for the slopes, but options do abound for those who want to appear stylish, yet not try-hard - and who even want to ski! Try Norwegian ski label Napapijri, for starters, which has fabulous slim-fit puffer jackets with fur-lined hoods, or E + O, which offers the more traditional cotton jackets reworked in sharp cuts, the latest fabrics and edgy colours.

The real nettle soupHigh-street faithful Topshop’s SNO range is wonderful for affordable skiwear – from jackets to trousers, snoods to salopettes, you’ll find the lot; the best buys, though, are the Prada-esque black jacket (£80) and trousers (£65).

A base layer is crucial for added warmth in high altitudes. Uniqlo’s HeatTech thermals range is perfect - take your from pick from leggings, tops and vests in fun, eye-popping neons. Layer under a cashmere hoodie, such as those by new label Chinti and Parker, for extra cosiness.

Designer skiwear can be something of a hit-and-miss affair; all too often, it’s a case of prioritising style over practicality. Should you have the money to spare, designer accessories are a safer bet – Chanel’s simple goggles (£300) and chic wooden skis (£1,900), both emblazoned with the house logo, are discerning without being ostentatious. Which is what, as a rule of thumb, your ski style should be.