Don’t make the fashion police come after you …

Ski season is in full swing and every skier knows it’s just as important to look great as it is to ski great. Well, there’s no reason to let those fashion police get you. There’s lots of help out there. Designers are doing their part this season to keep skiers and après-skiers in style. Luckily, women don’t have to wear the wool skirts found on the slopes in the early 1900s. From Pucci designs, first created by Italian Marchese Emilio Pucci in the 1950s, to Ralph Lauren and Prada skiwear, the latest styles are all over the slopes this year.

Suzy Menkes writes in the International Herald Tribune about the way that “…the leading brands have taken to the slopes - creating anything from snow bunny ski wear to high-tech accessories and logo-decorated equipment.” Jackets are available with special pockets to protect your mp3 player, provide lighting for night skiing, or expand into a sleeping bag (not all in one jacket). Candy Williams writes in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, that “the more youthful and versatile looks are built to withstand the rugged pace of downhill slopes and backcountry trails.” The younger crowd also enjoys waterproof cargo pants that can go straight from the slopes to the club in style.

While some may fear the fashion police if they wear a ski helmet, there’s nothing pretty about a brain injury. Teens especially tend to shy away from them but they are now designed with safety and style in mind, making them a much cooler accessory. For more on helmet safety, read this article by Dr. Ferdinand Liotta

Whether you’re into embroidered wool or Gore-Tex, there’s a way to look good on the slopes in 2005.