I'm not sure if it's the winter sun, the pretty white snow, the altitude or the adrenaline, but there's something truly magical about skiing. As a West Indian, sea-loving girl, the mountains have never called my name quite like the ocean does. But, when the opportunity arose for me to head to The Alps, I jumped at the chance. Finally, it was time to have my picture-perfect après moment... Until it dawned on me that I had no idea where the hell to begin when it came to finding stylish ski wear for for the trip.
The options beyond a UK size 22 are still frustratingly scarce. Unlike my fellow fashion-loving friends, the opportunity to adorn my voluptuous body in a fab Chanel jumpsuit – like Melissa, from Melissa's Wardrobe – seemed far-fetched. One, because my bank balance would definitely not have appreciated a designer shopping spree. And two, because most of the ski-appropriate outfits I saw in size fat/curve/plus-size (feel free to pick your preferred adjective) were generally far from fashionable.
But every plus-size fashion dilemma is a challenge I'll happily take on – and so the hunt for genuinely chic and cool ski wear began. Below, find the best brands doing stylish plus-size skiwear that will have you more than ready to take to the piste. Now all you need to worry about? Nailing your turns and picking the perfect sound for that #SlopeLife video.
Where to shop the best plus-size ski wear
1.Ulla Popken
For the daredevils who want their look to be as bold as their moves, Ulla Popken remains the go-to for curvy, colour-loving fashionistas. Their ski pants, base layers and cosy fleeces are not only a style statement but also one of the most size-inclusive options available, ranging from UK size 16 to 34.
2. Nobody's Princess
And the colour doesn’t stop there. My skiwear search also led me to Nobody’s Princess, an Australian brand with pieces that actually understand curves. Their snow jackets have an adjustable bust and expandable hips (a blessing if you’ve ever had to size up just to get the zip to go up). It’s the first time I’ve seen skiwear that allows you to adjust the fit to your body, rather than forcing you to compromise. The icing on the cake is the fact these bold prints (thankfully) ship to the UK.
3. The North Face
If you prefer a more classic ski vibe but still want to look pulled together, technical brands are a great bet. The North Face goes up to a UK 30 and is a reliable option for everything from base layers to après-ski coats. Expect a more muted colour palette that's no less chic.
4. Helly Hansen
Similarly, Helly Hansen is a technical sportswear brand based in Norway – so you know you're in good hands when it comes to clothing made for extreme temperatures. They offer all the essentials up to a size 5XL, covering the basics you’ll actually need for warmth and comfort. While standard black is of course an option, I was pleased to see pops of red, pink, bright blue and green throughout the collection, too.
5. Dare2b
Meanwhile, when it comes to high street brands, Dare2b brings a touch of sparkle to the piste. Yes, they did in fact previously partner with Swarovski on a skiwear collection consisting of dazzlingly embellished designs. Consider this proof practical doesn’t have to mean plain and boring.
6. ASOS 4505 Curve
For those who want fashion with their function and a *much* more purse-friendly price tag, make ASOS 4505 your go-to. While the Curve range is sadly quite limited compared to the main line collection, it delivers affordable ski options in bold colours and with trend-led details. You'll be even more limited when shopping out of season, so make sure you're well prepared ahead of your trip.
7. Adventure Kit Hire
While plus-size skiwear options are still limited, there are brands out there bringing style, function and inclusivity to the slopes. And if you’re not looking to invest in a full kit you’ll only wear once or twice, Adventure Kit Hire is a game-changer, offering ski gear to rent in sizes 18 to 28 for three days or more.
So whether you buy it, borrow it, or mix a little of both, your slope style is officially sorted.
Why is it so hard to find stylish plus-size ski wear?
Now, while I'd like to say "mission complete", looking for plus-size friendly ski wear still left me feeling a little disheartened. It's mind-boggling that the industry hasn't widely recognised the existence of plus-size people – hello, we are here, living and thriving! – and it's even more frustrating that these moments often leave us feeling isolated.
An experience that's supposed to be fun is turned into a "challenge" because the appropriate clothing isn't readily available. But does that mean we shouldn't get to enjoy a getaway as much as our straight-size friends? Absolutely not.
And there's reassurance in knowing that there are hundreds of plus-size babes out there sharing their stylish ski moments over on Instagram under the hashtag #plussizeski. So let's continue to celebrate each other and push for more size inclusivity – because we all deserve to feel fabulous, whether we're at the local lido, running errands around town or carving up the slopes like a total boss.
Follow Lauren Nicole on Instagram.
Lauren Nicole Coppin Campbell is the Contributing Curve Editor of Cosmopolitan UK. The former curve model and digital content creator has worked in the fashion industry, specialising in plus-size fashion content, for six years. Known for her excellent eye for style, captivating imagery and witty sense of humour to match, Lauren Nicole continues to inspire women to live boldly through their clothes.
Find her on TikTok
