I Just Got Back From the Swiss Alps, and These Are the 15 Practical but Stylish Staples Everyone Was Wearing

"The very first time I visited Switzerland and got a glimpse of the snow-capped Alps, I knew I'd be back. In the past year, I've visited four different times, each trip taking me to a different location across the small country, from the shores of Lake Geneva to the "adventure capital" Interlaken. Most recently, I went skiing in the Swiss Alps, visiting mountain towns like Zermatt, Verbier, and St. Moritz. While it was early in the season, the cold temperatures and snow had already descended upon these higher-elevation villages, and I was glad I packed some of my warmest winter coats, boots, and other essentials."

"When I'm traveling, I also always keep an eye on what other people at my destination are wearing. On this trip, I was particularly interested in how locals, as well as other tourists, dressed for the occasion. The style certainly changed by village-it's relatively casual in Verbier; St. Moritz is more flashy and fashion-forward-but one fashion rule remained the same: everyone was prepared to combat the cold."

"Thermal base layers Although not everyone is taking to the slopes in the Swiss Alps, many are, and any skier or snowboarder knows that the key to staying warm all day is thermal base layers. My Halfdays base layers weren't out of place at après-ski activities, and I also wore the top on a chilly day exploring the village of Verbier. Fleece-lined leggings Baleaf Thermal Fleece-lined Leggings Leave your regular cotton leggings at home. Winter in Switzerland calls for something more substantial-namely, fleece-lined leggings. When I'm skiing, I'll wear mine over my base layers for additional warmth; when I'm off the slopes, they're perfect for a travel day or sightseeing around various villages."

Multiple visits included Lake Geneva, Interlaken, Zermatt, Verbier, and St. Moritz, with early-season snow and cold at higher elevations. Warm winter coats, boots, and essential cold-weather gear were necessary across locations. Local and tourist dress varied by village: Verbier skewed casual while St. Moritz leaned flashy and fashion-forward. A shared priority everywhere was preparedness for cold conditions. Observed winter items ranged from practical layers like thermal base layers and fleece-lined leggings to turtleneck sweaters and luxury labels. Skiers emphasized thermal base layers to stay warm during long days on the slopes.

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