Date Night, But Make It Alpine—How I Dress for a Romantic Evening in the Mountains

Versatility is key.

two side by side photos of Brooke Ely Danielson wearing ski-inspired outfits
(Image credit: Brooke Ely Danielson)

Ski vacations are all about layers, technical gear, and après-ski. But when it comes to date night in the mountains, there’s a delicate balance to strike: staying warm without sacrificing style. Over the years, I’ve perfected a few alpine-approved formulas that feel cozy, chic, and entirely effortless—so you can enjoy your evening without thinking twice about frostbite.

First, I always pack a versatile bodysuit and a couple of different denim options. This combination is my failsafe: It can elevate a casual mountain look into something sleek for dinner, yet it stays comfortable and practical. For a softer, cozier vibe, I love pairing a slip skirt with a chunky sweater. The effect is elegant, approachable, and effortlessly date night-ready.

Alternatively, for a slightly edgier look, I might wear a slip skirt with a sleek long-sleeve bodysuit and chunky combat boots—a perfect mix of feminine and practical. A wool wrap coat ties any outfit together, while a small leather evening bag adds just the right amount of polish without weighing you down.

The key to alpine date night dressing is versatility: pieces that feel luxurious but can endure a crisp mountain evening. With these combinations, you’re ready for everything from a quiet dinner by the fire to a spontaneous snowshoe walk under the stars.

A Slip Skirt, Blazer, and Boots

Brooke Ely Danielson taking a photo in the mirror in an all black outfit

(Image credit: Brooke Ely Danielson)

A night out in snowy Lech, Austria, called for a Larroude boot to combat the snow. While this style is no longer available, I’ve subbed in one of my favorites from Varley for you to shop.

A Print Skirt and Knee-High Boots

Brooke Ely Danielson wearing a white fur jacket and a printed skirt with her hand on her hip

(Image credit: Brooke Ely Danielson)

This is a date night in Megeve, France on my most recent ski trip. It was snowing most evenings and so cold (which I love). This skirt is versatile when you change out the tops, and I wore these black leather knee-high boots many of the nights. The fur coat and black lace bodysuit are my mother’s from the early '90s—still classics and in great condition (oh, the power of investing in quality!). The sheer bodysuit was an easy way to make this look a little sexier for a night out in the hotel bar with my boyfriend.

High-Waisted Denim and Boots

Brooke Ely Danielson in a cabin-like room wearing high-waisted jeans, a fur jacket, and boots

(Image credit: Brooke Ely Danielson)

A faux fur jacket instantly adds glamour, while a sturdy, well-heeled boot keeps you safe on snow and ice. Forget flimsy heels; traction is everything.

Brooke Ely Danielson
Contributing Editor

Brooke has held editorial positions at Shape, Glamour, and Vogue, as well as contributed to In Style, Well + Good, Mind Body Green and Aspen Magazine. Brooke has also consulted for several brands, including Aztech Mountain and Tory Burch. Brooke has also made on-air appearances on the TODAY show, Fox5 among other media outlets while in her role as the Fashion & Lifestyle Director at Shape magazine. She runs the Substack 12 Seeds.