Hit the slopes in style!
You’re gliding down the snowy slopes and suddenly remember the post-ride party at the open-air bar? That’s what people often call Après ski – the French term for “after ski” that describes those blissful hours spent unwinding at the mountain lodge after a day on the slopes.
But when it comes to winter hairstyles, après ski means looks that transition seamlessly from the mountain to the bar, keeping you polished and put-together without spending an hour in front of the mirror. Here is the list of relaxed yet elegant styles that can handle a helmet and still turn heads, no matter how intense your ski day gets. Check them out!
If you want a style that screams “I woke up like this” but actually stays put all day, rope braids are your answer. Part your hair straight down the middle and divide it into two equal sections.
Take one section and split it into two smaller pieces. Twist each piece clockwise, then wrap them around each other counterclockwise to create that rope effect. Secure at the bottom with a clear elastic.
Repeat on the other side, and you’ve got yourself a look that’s feminine and totally manageable under a helmet.
Want to add a little extra something to your post-ski look? Start by creating soft bends in your hair with a straightener. Clamp small sections and rotate the tool away from your face as you pull down. This gives you that lived-in, textured wave.
Once you’ve got your base, add a couple of statement braids throughout: thin and delicate plaits that weave through the waves. Throw in some hair rings for that boho-mountain vibe.
Here’s an anti-helmet hairstyle that actually keeps your hair tamed even after wearing a helmet all day. And the secret behind that perfect finish is dry shampoo applied before the styling.
It adds grip and texture, making your hair way easier to work with. Section off the front pieces on both sides of your head and twist them into two mini rope braids. Take a small stripe of hair just behind each ear and tie your mini braids to it with bobby pins or small elastics.
Add soft curls to the rest of your hair for extra texture, and you’re set! This one’s for you if you want your hair out of your face but still want to look polished at the lodge.
Nothing beats simplicity when you’re in a rush. Divide your hair into three sections at the crown of your head. Start braiding by crossing the side sections under the middle section (not over, like a regular braid).
As you braid down, keep adding small pieces of hair from the sides into each section. This creates that raised, 3D effect that sits on top of your head instead of sinking in. Secure with an elastic at the end.
The single Dutch braid keeps all of your tresses together and looks polished without trying too hard. It’s great for active skiers who need their hair completely out of the way.
For those who want a more refined vibe, the sleek ponytail delivers every time. Start with a deep side part and section off the front piece of hair on the heavier side. Tie the rest of your hair into a high ponytail using a bristle brush and some hair wax to smooth down any flyaways.
Now, take that front section and brush it back toward your ponytail, then secure it with bobby pins so that it wraps around the base. Curl your ponytail with a curling iron for a little extra bounce, and you’ve got a look that’s equal parts sporty and elegant.
Can’t braid to save your life? This style is for you! Start by creating two mini braids along the sides of your head, just above your ears. Tie them together at the back with the rest of your hair, forming two low ponytails.
Add transparent elastics down each ponytail every few inches, as if you’re creating bubbles. Here’s the twist: flip each section throughout for a braided effect without actually braiding. Gently pull on each “bubble” to add volume and texture.
This one is great if you’re not ready to commit to headbands or beanies. Section off the top layers of your hair and clip them out of the way. Grab the front section of hair, spray it with some hairspray for hold, and pull it straight back while securing it with a bobby pin at the crown.
Now release the top layer and let it fall over the pinned section, covering your handiwork. That’s it! You’ve got a swishy half-updo that keeps your face clear and looks intentional. It’s great for girlies with layered hair who want a quick fix.
These après ski hairstyles will surely take you from first chair to last call without skipping a beat. Each one handles helmet hair like a pro and still looks put-together when you’re sipping that hot wine at the lodge.
Try one (or try them all!) this winter and see which becomes your go-to mountain look. Want even more hair styling ideas? Look through The Right Hairstyles AI Ty-On or download the HairHunt app to experiment with different looks before you hit the slopes. Your next mountain adventure deserves a hairstyle that can keep up!
