A WINTER’S TALE
With the cinematic beauty of Aspen as your backdrop, what story will you tell this season?
ASPEN’S ALLURE
Aspen, a former silver mining town nestled in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, has long held a reputation as a glamorous haven for winter sports enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike. Its appeal stretches beyond avid skiers to encompass those drawn to its rich history, celebrity allure, and vibrant après-ski culture. O ering an unforgettable mix of world-class skiing and exceptional dining, Aspen e ortlessly caters to both beginners and seasoned adventurers, making it a top destination for travelers seeking a quintessential alpine experience.
A LEGACY OF ELEGANCE
Aspen’s connection to luxury and the elite dates back to the 1930s when ski resort owners began inviting Hollywood stars to Snowmass for weekend retreats. is strategy helped establish the town as a playground for the wealthy and famous. Over the decades, Aspen solidi ed its status as a winter destination rivaling the likes of St. Moritz and Courchevel. Today, the town continues to attract high-pro le visitors, o ering pristine slopes and a private atmosphere that provides a respite from the spotlight.
Celebrities are a common sight on Aspen’s streets and slopes. Regulars include Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell, who have a home here, along with Mariah Carey, who often visits during the holidays. Recent visitors have included Kim Kardashian, Rihanna, A$AP Rocky, and Justin and Hailey Bieber. Kendall Jenner, Nina Dobrev, and Shaun White have also been spotted enjoying the mountains. While Aspen’s luxury reputation is well-earned, the town’s charm is accessible to a broader audience, welcoming visitors of all skiing abilities and budgets.
WHERE TO SKI, STAY AND APRÈS IN THIS CHIC MOUNTAIN TOWN IN MOUNTAIN
FOUR-MOUNTAIN MARVEL
Aspen’s four-mountain experience— Aspen Mountain (also known as Ajax), Aspen Highlands, Snowmass, and Buttermilk—o ers something for everyone. Aspen Mountain provides a mix of challenging terrain, with no beginner runs, and 76 trails served by eight lifts, including the iconic Silver Queen Gondola. e mountain’s location, right above downtown Aspen, provides easy access without the ultra-luxury vibes of other resorts.
Buttermilk is particularly beginner-friendly, with mellow trails like West Buttermilk, ideal for mastering the basics. e mountain recently underwent a $23 million facelift, incorporating sustainable materials and renewable energy in its new guest services building and restaurant.
APRÈS-SKI CULTURE
Aspen’s après-ski scene is legendary, blending casual charm with sophistication. e gondola ride up Aspen Mountain sets the tone, with designer ski out ts adding a runway-like air to the experience. Despite the high-fashion undertones, the atmosphere remains approachable and relaxed.
Sundeck, located atop Aspen Mountain, o ers panoramic views and a welcoming space for lunch or drinks after a day on the slopes. At the base, Ajax Tavern is a lively hotspot for après-ski revelers. e newly opened Wine Bar at e Little Nell provides an intimate setting, perfect for both walk-ins and reservations. Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro at Aspen Highlands o ers stunning views of the Maroon Bells and serves alpine specialties like raclette, fondue, and steak tartare. In the afternoon, Cloud Nine transforms into a lively après-ski destination with champagne, music, and vibrant celebrations.
WORDS CASEY BRENNAN
HOTELS, DINING, AND NIGHTLIFE
Aspen’s culinary scene rivals its world-class skiing. For ne dining, Element 47 at e Little Nell presents an elegant experience, focusing on seasonal ingredients, while Matsuhisa, by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, o ers inventive Japanese cuisine in a re ned setting. Bosq brings together global avors with locally sourced ingredients, making it a favorite for adventurous diners.
For a more relaxed vibe, e Snow Lodge, from the team behind e Surf Lodge in Montauk, is known for live music and a casual après-ski menu. Cache Cache combines French-inspired dishes with an extensive wine list, perfect for sophisticated dining.
Casa Tua o ers a cozy yet upscale atmosphere in the center of town, serving Italian classics. Betula, owned by the team behind Bonito in St. Barts, provides a fresh, innovative take on modern cuisine, with an emphasis on local ingredients and vibrant ambiance.
e town boasts a handful of luxe properties including e Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, W Aspen, Viceroy Snowmass, and e St. Regis Aspen; White Elephant Aspen is set to debut in late 2025, bringing modern luxury to the West End neighborhood. e 54-room property features exible suites, a curated art collection, and rustic-modern design.
NON-SKIING ADVENTURES
Aspen isn’t just for skiers—it’s a haven for those who want to indulge in luxury and style. e Little Nell’s boutique has just dropped a stunning limited-edition hat designed with Nick Fouquet for the hotel’s 35th anniversary. Nearby, Aspen Collection (formerly ASPENX) o ers contemporary gear and
outerwear perfect for both on and o the slopes. For high-performance fashion, Perfect Moment ski wear at Gorsuch combines sleek designs with functionality. Other local retailers include Obermeyer, founded in Aspen in 1947, and Strafe, a modern favorite since 2010. For local air, check out Pitkin County Dry Goods, P.E. 101, and the iconic Kemo Sabe.
For a luxury spa experience, visit e Spa at e Little Nell, known for its rejuvenating treatments and sophisticated ambiance and featuring treatments from renowned German aesthetic doctor Barbara Sturm. After a day of shopping or relaxation, unwind further with a visit to e Remède Spa at e St. Regis or O2 Aspen for a refreshing treatment.
A TIMELESS DESTINATION
Aspen seamlessly blends its rich heritage with modern appeal, creating an environment that resonates with travelers from all walks of life. Whether carving turns on Buttermilk’s gentle slopes, savoring exquisite cuisine, or unwinding at a chic après-ski spot, Aspen o ers a multitude of ways to enjoy the winter season. Its enduring allure lies in its ability to provide both excitement and tranquility, making it a destination that continues to captivate year after year.
The Little Nell spa
White Elephant
DINING
Aspen’s favorite restaurants rede ne luxury with stylish ambiance and world-class dining
SLEEK & SOCIAL
Catch Steak Aspen radiates modern sophistication with a dynamic atmosphere. e space is sleek, creating a perfect environment for socializing. Known for its exceptional steaks and seafood, this gathering place is where fashionable locals and visitors indulge in delicious food and drinks in a highenergy, chic setting.
WORDS CASEY BRENNAN FASHION SHELBY COMROE
CHIC MOUNTAIN RETREAT
Casa Tua o ers a luxe, intimate alpine escape. A Miami original with locations in NYC and Paris, it seamlessly blends rustic charm with re ned Italian dining and stylish interiors. Celebrities and jet-setters ock to this spot for its cozy yet glamorous ambiance, perfect for everything from intimate dinners to après-ski cocktails.
WHERE: CASA TUA WEAR: BOTTEGA VENETA
WHERE: CATCH STEAK WEAR: MARNI
WHERE:
WHERE: ELEMENT 47 WEAR: BURBERRY
HIGH-STYLE DINING
Named after silver as a nod to Aspen’s mining past, Element 47’s sleek interiors—complete with glowing replaces and an Instagram-worthy wine wall—set the stage for a chic mountain dining experience. Chef Domingo Blanco crafts locally sourced, seasonally inspired dishes like wagyu beef and handmade pastas. Pair award-winning wines with e Little Nell’s legendary hospitality for Aspen’s ultimate dining destination.
WHERE: AJAX TAVERN WEAR: TOD’S
PLAYFUL & LUXE
From the team behind Montauk’s Surf Lodge, Snow Lodge Aspen o ers a playful take on luxury. Mixing relaxed elegance with alpine air, it’s a favorite for those enjoying a glamorous nighttime scene. Expect highfashion energy, expertly crafted cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere that makes it a must-visit.
Casa Tua Aspen: Chic Mountain Retreat
Casa Tua o ers a luxe, intimate alpine escape. A Miami
CASUAL ALPINE GLAM
Ajax Tavern o ers a relaxed yet elegant vibe, ideal for unwinding. Situated at the base of Aspen Mountain, it marries casual charm with a lively, social ambiance. With cozy interiors, hearty dishes, and après-ski drinks, it’s the top destination for a stylish, laid-back mountain experience.
SNOW LODGE
LAUREN
Casa Tua Aspen: Chic Mountain Retreat
Casa Tua o ers a luxe, intimate alpine escape. A Miami original with locations in NYC and Paris, it seamlessly blends rustic charm with re ned Italian dining and stylish interiors. Celebrities and jet-setters ock to this spot for its cozy yet glamorous ambiance, perfect for everything from intimate dinners to après-ski cocktails.
LIVING LEGEND
MOUNTAIN MOGUL
Centenarian ski-world legend Klaus Obermeyer revolutionized alpine apparel with cool innovations and played a pivotal role in Aspen’s rise as a global hot spot
WORDS AARON RASMUSSEN
If skiing is a tonic for the soul, Klaus Obermeyer may be its most persuasive proof. “The longer you ski, the longer you live,” he says, and he should know—this December, the legendary mountaineer celebrated his 105th birthday. For Obermeyer, skiing is no mere pastime. It’s a way of life, one that inspired him to build the global empire that bears his name.
Obermeyer’s love affair with skiing began in 1922, when he was three years old. Using makeshift skis cobbled together from crates, he would glide around his family’s property in snow-blanketed Bavaria, in the German Alps. Though he went on to ski competitively in his youth, Obermeyer’s life took a dramatic detour as the Nazis rose to power. He knew he had to leave his homeland behind. Attempting to escape on skis, Obermeyer’s plan nearly ended in tragedy when SS officers opened fire and he was wounded. At the hospital, medical staff treated his injuries and then courageously helped him evade the Gestapo.
Eventually, Obermeyer made his way to America, embarking on a journey that took him from New York City to Sun Valley, Idaho, and ultimately to Aspen, Colorado. In the late 1940s, he quickly found his place in the sleepy Rocky Mountain hamlet, landing a job giving ski lessons at the Fred Iselin Ski School, where he instructed eager students—including none other than actor Gary Cooper.
But there was another star in the making that Obermeyer came to know intimately: Aspen itself. Over the decades, he would witness—and help— the area evolve from a near-abandoned mining town into a glamorous playground for jet-setters on the global social circuit, a high-altitude Hollywood where après-ski became as essential as the slopes. Aspen “started little,” he recalls, noting that when he first arrived almost 80 years ago, it was practically a ghost town where homes were selling for as little as $300 as workers left the area in search of more lucrative opportunities. Back then, overpaying
for parking wasn’t a problem either. Obermeyer recalls he and other powder hounds would leave their vehicles at the Hotel Jerome all winter, only returning to retrieve them after the snow melted at the end of the season.
Obermeyer’s contributions to skiing didn’t stop with teaching. A natural and skilled inventor with a knack for innovation, he single-handedly revolutionized the sport several times over with his groundbreaking products. “We saw an opportunity to make the skiing life a better one for the skiers in America who came to Aspen a long time ago,” he says. “That’s how our business started: by making things that worked better and solved problems for people.”
In the early 1960s, with the help of his wife, Nome—Katherine Hepburn’s niece—he created a catalog showcasing his designs. This laid the foundation for Obermeyer, a brand that grew in tan-
dem with Aspen and the burgeoning skiing culture.
While many companies manage to thrive on one or two innovative products, Obermeyer dreamed up at least a dozen. Among his many inventions are mirrored sunglasses for the slopes, high-altitude sunscreen, double-walled ski boots, and tapered aluminum ski poles. Perhaps his most iconic creation, the ski parka, has humble beginnings: Obermeyer repurposed a down comforter his mother had gifted him, stitching it into a coat—a practical solution to Aspen’s bone-chilling winters. For Obermeyer, invention wasn’t about profit but passion. “We didn’t start Obermeyer to get rich,” he insists. “We started it because we love skiing.”
That love has propelled him through decades of change. As his business empire grew, Obermeyer witnessed firsthand the evolution of skiing culture in Aspen and around the world. From the chic fashionistas storming the slopes in the 1960s, to the scrappy counterculture ski bums of the ‘70s, and the hightech adventurers wrapped in innovative waterproof, breathable fabrics in the 1980s and beyond, Obermeyer has not only adapted but led the charge. “Our aim was to keep making life better in the mountains,” he says of his timeless philosophy that requires crafting items he can be proud of. That ethos, as enduring as the man himself, resonates in every stitch and design of Obermeyer gear. “When I see someone wearing Obermeyer, I feel I already know them,” he says.
Now, looking back at over a century of skiing, Obermeyer reflects on a life spent chasing not just powder but purpose. “Skiing,” he says of the sport that’s been his gateway to reinvention, exploration, and joy, “is like a fairytale—it’s beautiful.”
“I HAVE ALWAYS ENJOYED WATCHING SKIERS WHO BRING JOY TO THE MOUNTAIN.”
Klaus Obermeyer has skied nearly his entire life and launched his eponymous brand in 1947 with other skiers in mind. “Business is like a dance,” he says. “Always create win-win situations and work to make life better
TAKE
A HIKE
Suit up in Max Mara’s latest Fall/Winter offerings including special pieces from its Atelier collection — available exclusively at the Hotel Jerome pop-up — before taking to the slopes.
Max Mara coat, sweater and trousers, available at the Max Mara Pop-Up Store at Hotel Jerome (330 East Main Street); stylist’s own sunglasses and boots. Opposite page: Max Mara coat, sweater, skirt and boots, available at the Max Mara Pop-Up Store at Hotel Jerome (330 East Main Street); stylist’s own sunglasses.
HOT DEBATE
Max Mara coat, sweater and jumpsuit, available at the Max Mara Pop-Up Store at Hotel Jerome (330 East Main Street.)
Max Mara sweater and hat, available at the Max Mara Pop-Up Store at Hotel Jerome (330 East Main Street.).
Max Mara coat, jacket, trousers and gloves, available at the Max Mara Pop-Up Store at Hotel Jerome (330 East Main Street.)
Max Mara coat and hat, available at the Max Mara Pop-Up Store at Hotel Jerome (330 East Main Street.)
HAIR GIOVANNI ERROI @GREENAPPLE MAKE UP ELENA PIVETTA @GREENAPPLE
MODEL SANNE DE ROO PHOTO ASSISTANT ANDREA SCHILIRO
On the cover: Max Mara coat and turtleneck, available at the Max Mara Pop-Up Store at Hotel Jerome (330 East Main Street.)
ICON
I SEE A SISTER IN EVERY WOMAN,
Andie MacDowell is thriving, with a third season of the show The Way Home slated for release in January and the comedy A Sudden Case of Christmas in theaters now. As she reflects on equal pay for women in Hollywood, the political future of the country and the many feminist battles still to be won, the actress and natural beauty icon tells us why it’s more important than ever for women to rally against male authority.
“Life is too short to be unhappy. As women, we are free to be whoever we want, at every age.” Andie MacDowell is an explosion of energy. She arrives for our interview with her curly mane of silver hair, which has become both a symbol of natural beauty and an invitation to embrace it. She wears only a faint touch of makeup. She asks me if we can move toward the window, where sunlight streaks across her face. “We should always look for light and let it shine on the woman next to us, because we’re not getting anywhere on our own, but together, we are unbeatable,” she says with the charisma that has won over generations, from the time of the cult movies Sex, Lies, and Videotape, Four Weddings and a Funeral, and Groundhog Day. Her latest cinematic appearance is in A Sudden Case of Christmas, directed by Peter Chelsom, in which she plays a grandmother who asserts her right to personal pleasure and freedom by ending a marriage she no longer finds satisfying. “You can’t feel invisible and stay with someone just so you’re not alone,” the actress maintains. She would know, having divorced model Paul Qualley in 1999 and jeweler Rhett Hartzog in 2004; today, at 66 and after much introspection, she tells GRAZIA that she has finally learned to love herself.
Let’s start with women’s desire. Why is that story so rarely told in movies?
I think women in general are not well understood. Just look at what’s happening in the United States. I don’t think men today really try to understand women, and that’s why it’s important for us to at least understand each other, to act like a team, to be allies and friends at a time when we’re losing power globally.
Was it difficult for you to achieve success at a time when movies were dominated by men?
My darkest hour came when I turned 40. Men controlled everything, and I was afraid to express myself, because I knew I was in their world. As women, we weren’t really able to stand up for ourselves back then. Campaigns such as the Me Too movement were still unimaginable.
Times have changed
Over the last 25 years, times have changed dramatically. Today we can speak freely about our experiences and there are many men fighting by our side. Me Too served a real purpose: I’ve seen more women on set, we are more involved and there are more roles available to us. Before, if we wanted to work we didn’t have a choice but to keep our mouths shut and try to do the right thing; men were in charge. Now, men are still in power, but as women, we need to drop out of the old game and fight for each other’s success.
Across generations
Exactly, young women need to stand up for older women and vice versa. The other day I told a colleague, “When you see a woman who’s older than you are
on set and you realize she’s not being treated right, stand up for her, because tomorrow that woman will be you. We need to fight together for the present and for the future of new generations of women.
We’re still a long way from women earning as much as men at work.
Unfortunately, and there’s no justification for that. It’s illogical and it’s not right that we are less valued because we were born women.
But is it true that for Four Weddings and a Funeral, Hugh Grant was paid less than you were?
I would hope so. At the time, I was more famous than he was. Audiences didn’t really know him, and my agent fought hard to get me a fair contract. My understanding is that Grant didn’t receive the “backend” [Editor’s note: a percentage of profits paid after a film’s distribution and production expenses], whereas I did, thanks to my agent. With that being said, between then and now he has made far more money than I ever did and ever will. I don’t think he has anything to complain about.
Did you find it difficult to balance your career and your personal life?
I was very careful to protect my personal life. I wanted to raise my kids away from the public eye. I didn’t want my career to set the tone at home, or for my kids’ lives to be solely governed by my needs. Their needs were important. Most of all, I didn’t want them to be child stars; they could decide what they wanted to do when they were older. [Editor’s note: MacDowell’s three children are Justin, 38; Rainey, 35; and Margaret, 30].
Your daughter, Margaret, has followed in your footsteps. You appeared together in the Netflix miniseries Maid, in which you played her mother. How was that?
I was so happy not only to be on set with her, but to be able to spend time with her. She leads a very busy life and to finally have some time just the two of us, away from everything, was a gift. Knowing each other so well allowed us to express ourselves on the set in a believable way. Also, I was able to make her soup every day, and we spent the weekends together; we’d go to the spa for a massage and rehearse our lines. She had many more than I did and I was happy for her.
You are unquestionably a role model for aging naturally and gracefully.
The secret is not to judge other women. The passage of time gives us so many options and different paths, and we all have to choose what’s right for ourselves. I don’t judge those who have made different choices than I did when it comes to aging. I refuse to compete with other women. I decided a long time ago that I prefer to love and support them. When I look at another woman, I see a sister, and each of us needs to be free to do whatever makes her feel good.
What persuaded you to accept the role in A Sudden Case of Christmas?
“MEN ARE STILL IN POWER, BUT AS WOMEN, WE NEED TO DROP OUT OF THE OLD GAME AND FIGHT FOR EACH OTHER’S SUCCESS.”
Opposite page: Moschino shirt, moschino.com; Bvlgari earrings, necklace, bracelet, ring, bulgari.com.
I like comedies because they make people smile. I found this movie unconventional, and I like Chelsom as a director: he knows how to explore themes with a light touch, which I really appreciate. And then I was glad to be on set with Danny DeVito.
In the movie, you play a grandmother. What struck you the most about your character, Rose?
When I read the screenplay, at first I was pretty worried about how people might react seeing her marriage fall apart. I think that the movie does a good job of explaining that it’s not just a matter of infidelity, but the end of a relationship that was already broken.
Your Rose makes a strong choice of personal freedom.
It’s a choice I admire and that has nothing to do with another woman, or any feminine rivalry. She simply realizes that she and her husband have become two different people, and their paths are diverging. Even if she has what we could call a good husband – he treats her well and respects her – Rose realizes that she’s not living her life to the fullest. Her life, her desire, even her age.
Do you think society, with its patriarchal heritage, is still too hard on women as they get older?
There’s a cruel attitude toward mature women. It can become a battle to continue to be seen as beautiful, glamourous and desirable, and not to feel excluded, as we age. All of a sudden we’re chased away, turned down, left behind – we become invisible. Demi Moore explains it well in The Substance
Your daughter Margaret co-stars in that film.
She was wonderful in that movie. I was so proud. I’m not saying that because she’s my daughter. The movie is excellent, it’s liberating, and it really captures the ridiculousness of heterosexual white men and the old and powerful in their subjugation of women. Everyone should see it, take their girlfriends and laugh, maybe with a glass of champagne.
Did you feel supported by your mother when you were young?
I wouldn’t say my poor mother was a good mother, but in some way she taught me to be strong. We had a strange relationship, but it was a good one. It’s impossible for me to describe it in words, but I absorbed so much energy from her chaos [Editor’s note: MacDowell’s mother was an alcoholic]. Having fought so hard and suffered so much as a daughter made me stronger as a woman.
When did you learn to say to yourself, “Nice job”?
Only very recently, to be honest. For years I looked for love in places where I’d never find it, forcing relationships with impossible people just to be seen, appreciated and loved.
Really?
In relationships and in friendship I often chose impossible partners. In the end, after 66 years, I realized that I’m the one who needs to love myself. Because that’s how it should be, and because I deserve to be loved.
The world is in turmoil. Are you worried?
I’m much more than just worried. [Editor’s note: She has tears in her eyes.] I’m sorry, I can’t hold it in. It seems to me that people choose not to see, they consume fake news and don’t go any further. My greatest fear is that this tendency is becoming more widespread. People who have no intention of understanding or listening to the way things really are, won’t do it until everything has gotten worse, and at that point it will be too late. I’m sorry, but I find the world pretty depressing. I would like to be more optimistic. I try to keep in mind that we still have the freedom to choose. As women, especially.
To choose what?
To save ourselves, together. To hug each other, to look in each other’s eyes and say: “At least I have you.” Because no one else will come save us if we don’t save each other.
Why are the powers-that-be of the patriarchy afraid of women?
Men are afraid of losing the power they have had for centuries, and which they want to keep forever. We are a threat to their unchallenged dominance and they have no intention of losing their privileges. And, as I’ll never tire of repeating, that won’t change until as women, we recognize the incredible power that we have when we stand together.
CYNTHIA MARTENS
BY
TRANSLATION
BEYOND THE SLOPES
ASPEN ART MUSEUM’S MUST-SEE 2025 EXHIBITS
This winter, the Aspen Art Museum transforms into a cultural haven with groundbreaking exhibits that celebrate innovation, nature, and global creativity.
WORDS CASEY BRENNAN
Aspen Art Museum is making winter 2025 the season for unforgettable art moments. First up, prepare for a throwback with a twist in Shuang Li: I’m Not. Inspired by her fangirl days with My Chemical Romance, Li channels the emo nostalgia we didn’t know we needed, transforming it into a mind-bending exhibit. Picture a heart-shaped fountain spilling vivid imagery and a soulful acapella version of an MCR track. Emo never looked this chic.
Then comes Heji Shin: America Part I, a striking collection of photographs marrying rocket launches with raging storms. It’s like a cosmic face-off between human ambition and nature’s raw power. Think Winslow Homer vibes with a modern, moody edge—perfect for your next Instagram deep caption.
Ugo Rondinone’s the rainbow body turns up the vibrancy with 16 wax dancer sculptures and an immersive space that screams spiritual ascension meets visual feast. Finally, Megan Marrin’s Austerity brings a sleek and minimalist finish, channeling Jean-Michel Frank’s refined aesthetic in shimmering new paintings that are basically art-world ASMR.
The best part? Admission is free, making it easier to spend your après-ski dollars on that post-gallery cocktail. Aspen Art Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, so whether you’re a local or just here for the slopes, this lineup is calling your name. aspenartmuseum.org
Where Altitude Meets Art: Aspen’s Top Galleries
BALDWIN GALLERY
Baldwin Gallery, a cornerstone of Aspen’s art scene since 1994, champions contemporary American artists. This winter, explore Erwin Wurm’s whimsical sculptures, including pieces previously exhibited at Vienna’s Albertina Modern, blending creativity with humor and depth. baldwingallery.com
OPERA GALLERY
With locations worldwide, Opera Gallery brings global art to Aspen. This winter, expect an eclectic collection of contemporary works by international masters like Picasso, Monet and Renoir and emerging talents. operagallery.com
GALERIE MAXIMILLIAN
Specializing in contemporary and modern works on paper, Galerie Maximillian offers stunning pieces by artists like Damien Hirst and Salvador Dalí, blending history with the avant-garde. galeriemax.com
VALLEY FINE ART
Specializing in vintage works by Edward S. Curtis, Valley Fine Art was located in the historic Wheeler Opera House for over 25 years before moving the gallery online and by appointment only. valleyfineart.com
PHOTO: MICHAEL MORAN/OTTO
HIGH FASHION MEETS HIGH PERFORMANCE
Prada Linea Rossa snowboard, $4,100, prada.com.
The Prada Linea Rossa snowboard redefines the ride, merging high fashion with high performance. Crafted from eco-sustainable materials, it offers exceptional handling for riders of all levels.
Whether you’re carving down the slopes or conquering more technical terrain, its lightweight, versatile design ensures a smooth experience. The unique geometric texture, influenced by Prada’s technical knitwear, adds a refined touch to the board, creating a seamless fusion of stylish techwear and advanced snow gear.
THE FINISHING TOUCH
Louis Vuitton LV Snow Mask, $1,500, 866.VUITTON.
The perfect finishing touch to any chic ski look, Louis Vuitton’s Snow Mask seamlessly blends style with function. The Monogram lens offers protection against UV rays while minimizing glare, and its matte finish creates a sleek, frosted effect. The adjustable strap, embossed with the bold 5 Elements logo in glossy silicone, adds that signature luxury detail.
SAFETY FIRST
Fendi Ski Helmet, $1,350, fendi.com.
This Fendi ski helmet redefines on-the-mountain luxury with its sleek beige tone and standout FF band in matching print. It features a soft, black padded lining for a comfortable fit while you’re navigating the slopes. With an adjustable strap for a secure closure, this helmet blends technical precision with high-end fashion, all crafted in Italy to ensure top-tier quality.
CLASSIC WITH A TWIST
Dior Alps Belted Puffer Jacket, $5,100, 1 800 929 Dior.
This puffer jacket from Dior’s DiorAlps capsule takes winterwear to the next level with black quilted taffeta, the iconic Dior Oblique motif, and a sleek belt that pulls in the waist just right. Functional but undeniably polished, it’s equally at home on the slopes or strolling through the city.
SUMPTUOUS SHEARLING
Chanel Hobo Bag, $5,700, (800) 550-0005.
Chanel’s Coco Neige collection is the ultimate choice for effortlessly transitioning from the slopes to aprèsski gatherings. A true standout, the hobo bag is crafted from sumptuous quilted shearling lambskin and enhanced with gold-tone hardware. Its timeless crescent shape adds to its elegance, while the signature Chanel chain shoulder strap, adjustable for both short-shoulder wear and longer crossbody styling, makes it the ideal companion for any winter occasion.
MUST HAVE HOT LIST
SLOPE STYLE
Celine Homme by Hedi Slimane Ski Bib, $4,350, celine.com.
This Celine Ski Bib blends high-performance design with luxury, made from durable technical nylon fabric. With the iconic Celine print on both the front and back, it’s sure to make a statement. The loose fit ensures comfort, while also keeping practicality in mind. It’s equipped with a flap pocket, two side leg pockets, and two back flap pockets to hold all the ski slope essentials.
TAKE ON THE TERRAIN
Saint Laurent Rive Droite Moonbike, $18,000, yslrivedroite.com. Saint Laurent has partnered with MoonBikes to create an electric snow bike that blends innovation with iconic design. Featuring the brand’s signature details, this sleek ride is both powerful and stylish, with a design that makes a bold statement. Built to tackle snowy terrains, it combines cuttingedge technology with premium materials for an unparalleled experience.
EDITED BY SHELBY COMROE
THE LONGEST NIGHT
AFTER THE PARTY IS THE HOTEL LOBBY...
Who ever said your night is over when you get back to the hotel?
PHOTOGRAPHY TINA LUTHER STYLING ANNA-LENA HALSIG
Karl Lagerfeld dress, karl.com.
Emporio Armani dress, belt, and shoes, armani.com; Cartier sunglasses, cartier.com.
Versace dress and shoes, versace.com; Bucherer Fine Jewelry earrings, cocktail ring, and bracelet, bucherer.com.
Clockwise from top left: Cartier ring, watch, and bracelet, cartier.com; Celine coat, celine.com. Dior bag, dior.com; Tiffany & Co. bracelet, tiffany.com. Fendi dress and bag, fendi.com; Bvlgari necklace and ring, bulgari.com.
ELIZABETH ARDEN EIGHT HOUR
CREAM INTENSIVE LIP REPAIR BALM
“The skin of our lips is thin and not very effective at holding onto moisture, so it’s particularly important to protect it in cold temperatures. This lip balm is deeply moisturizing, helping to soothe the lips and prevent them from chapping.”
($35, elizabetharden.com)
ABOUT FACE SAVE YOUR SKIN
ON THE SLOPES
BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE! Dermatologist
Dr. Dendy Engelman shares her top product picks to keep you glowing in the harsh elements
WORDS GWEN FLAMBERG
CAUDALIE
RESVERATROLLIFT DEPUFFING EYE
CREAM WITH PEPTIDES
“Cold temperatures and high altitudes can significantly affect the eye area; not only is the thin skin here prone to dryness, but those who are not adjusted to higher altitudes may experience fluid retention and puffiness. This eye cream is a lifesaver!
Formulated with peptides, resveratrol, and hyaluronic acid, it nourishes the under-eye area while lifting, de-puffing, protecting against free radical damage, and combating signs of aging. I love that it comes with a molded applicator tip for an added contouring effect.”
($65, us.caudalie.com)
DR. DIAMOND’S METACINE INSTAFACIAL PLASMA BIOACTIVE GROWTH FACTOR SERUM
“Packed with bioengineered growth factors, polypeptides, and sodium hyaluronate, this clinically backed serum repairs and hydrates, making it perfect for combating damage and dryness in cold temperatures. It also helps lift and firm for a more youthful appearance.”
($200, drdiamondsmetacine.com)
MEDIK8 ADVANCED NIGHT CERAMIDE
SIGNATURE NIGHT CREAM
“This is one of my favorites! The drying effects of altitude can lead to a breakdown in the skin barrier, but this ultra-rich night cream deeply hydrates and nourishes skin to keep it intact. The perfect blend of ceramides, antioxidants, and peptides work overnight to support long-lasting hydration.”
($76, us.medik8.com)
SKINMEDICA NECK CORRECT CREAM
“People think of treating the neck and chest in the warmer months when those areas are on display, but the skin is delicate and still vulnerable to the effects of cold, dry air in winter. This beautiful cream from SkinMedica firms, reduces hyperpigmentation, improves skin texture, and reduces fine lines thanks to a blend of peptides, shiitake mushroom extract, and green microalgae extract. I use it on both my neck and décolleté daily, all year round.” ($135, skinmedica.com)
NOBLE PANACEA CHRONOBIOLOGY
SLEEP MASK
“After exposure to cold, dry air, this sleep mask is the perfect way to help skin recover. It’s designed to maximize the body’s natural reparative processes that occur during sleep. It soothes and re-balances skin while brightening with a powerhouse combo of ingredients including peptides, retinol, ceramides, pre- and post-biotics and hyaluronic acid. And it comes with a facial sculpting tool, so you can massage and contour the face after applying the maskso nice to do before bed!”
($392, noblepanacea.com)
MEDICUBE EXOSOME
CICA CALMING TONER
“If you get red, chapped skin while skiing, this super soothing toner made with exosomal cica can help calm things down. It also has niacinamide and tea tree leaf water to hydrate, balance, and improve texture. I recommend applying it to the face right after cleansing to help calm the skin and prevent adverse reactions to cold temperatures and dry air.
($27, medicube.us)
MELACH 33 HYALURONIC BOTANICAL MIST
“This travel-friendly facial mist is a lifesaver when your skin is feeling dry or needs a refresh. It’s made with a biomimetic hyaluronic acid that boosts skin’s water content and provides longlasting hydration. I like to spritz it on at the end of my skincare routine, then toss it in my bag to use whenever my skin needs a boost of hydration during the day.” ($26, melach33.com)
The top doc finds style inspiration everywhere she goes in Aspen. “The people watching is epic, and there’s no shortage of shopping to look and feel your best,” she says. Here, a few of her favorite beauty meccas.
COS BAR
This legendary shop on Galena Street stocks coveted luxury brands curated by founder Lily Garfield, including skincare like Dr. Barbara Sturm and La Mer, Oribe hair care, makeup by Westman Atelier, and fine fragrances from Parfums de Marly, Tom Ford, and Maison Francis Kurkdjian.
SUITE REYAD
Get a blowout at chic Suite Reyad located at the St. Regis hotel and pick up a pack of its proprietary booster serum called The Cure, perfect for treating dry, damaged hair.
YARROW SPA
When Engelman needs a massage, she heads to the Yarrow Spa at the Hotel Jerome. All the treatments can be customized with native botanical essences found in the Rocky Mountains, and she arrives early to relax in their wellness environment.
ASPEN DERMATOLOGY
For everything from a skin cancer check to laser procedures and neurotoxins, this medical office dedicated to healthy and youthful skin has you covered.
BEST BEAUTY
LOOK UP
Inspired by the otherworldly hues of the northern lights, Chanel’s Enchanted Night Eyeshadow and Blush Palette o ers myriad ways to adorn features with touches of luminous color that leave a stainedglass nish. ($88, chanel.com)
LID LUSTER
From ski to chic:
A swipe of Armani Beauty Eye Tint
Long-Lasting Liquid Eyeshadow (here in 8S Rose) imparts just the right amount of sheer, dewy pigment for a no-makeup makeup look that’s perfect for every aprés endeavor. ($38, giorgioarmanibeautyus.com)
LIP SLICK
Quite possibly the most glamorous balm to keep in the pocket of your parka, YSL Loveshine Lip Oil Stick Limited Holiday Edition kisses lips with six deeply nourishing oils plus g fruit extract, which prevents water loss — the perfect panacea for chapped pouts. ($45, sephora.com)
PRECIOUS POWDER
Cle de Peau’s The Luminizing Face Enhancer is infused with opal powder to impart a multifaceted glow. The blue tones in the Shimmering Snow ake compact mimic the cool light on the mountain in the evening. ($95, cledepeaubeaute.com)
NAIL DELIVERY
BRIGHT IDEA
Even if your vibe is more spa than slopes, a swipe of Gucci Glow Highlighter in Opal Pink adds that rush of I’ve-just-been-exertingenergy-outdoors glow that adapts to all skin tones. ($60, gucci.com)
GREATS
Think of Dior Vernis in the limited edition shade Lumière as glitter for grown-ups: Gilded ecks have an alluring, re ective e ect with a unique depth that adds a dreaminess to your digits through the holiday and beyond.
keep your face in place for hours
Limited Edition Meteorites Setting and Finishing Pearls of Powder to impart a subtle sheen that helps keep your face in place for hours and hours. ($78, guerlain.com)
GOLD RUSH
Add a metallic edge to any lip color by topping it with a coat of Valentino’s Spike Lipstick in 600A Put a Spike on It. Bonus: Cotton extract in the formula infuses moisture to keep lips supple despite its stayput wear. Oh, and the rock stud tube is to die for! ($48, valentino-beauty.us)
JUST ADD ICE! Gwen Flamberg nds shimmer makeup that gives a certain sparkle as magical as when the sun hits the snow
HANG OUT
WHAT’S
GOOD
Aspen’s allure lies in its chic dining spots, stylish shops, luxurious stays, and buzzing nightlife. Discover where to eat, shop, stay, and drink in this glamorous mountain haven.
WORDS CASEY BRENNAN
EAT
Clark’s Oyster Bar
Nestled in the heart of Aspen, Clark’s Oyster Bar o ers an elegant yet cozy retreat. Renowned for freshly shucked oysters, crudo, lobster rolls, and champagne, it’s a must-visit destination for seafood lovers in the mountains. 517 E Hyman Ave., Aspen, CO 81611; clarksoysterbar.com
Meat & Cheese
At Meat & Cheese, Aspen’s coolest market-meets-eatery, savor artfully crafted charcuterie boards, hearty farm-to-table dishes, and bold avors. It’s a fun, relaxed hotspot where local ingredients truly steal the show. 301 E Hopkins Ave #103, Aspen, CO 81611; meatandcheeseaspen.com
HaSalon
Located at the chic W Aspen hotel and helmed by famed Israeli Chef Eyal Shani, this Mediterranean hotspot pairs bold avors, avant-garde dishes—including the Insta-famous whole roasted tomato—and electrifying après-ski vibes with Aspen glamour. 550 S Spring Street, Aspen, CO 81611; hasalonaspen.com
SHOP
Kemo Sabe
Find bespoke cowboy hats, custom boots, and rodeo-inspired accessories at Kemo Sabe, Aspen’s iconic destination for luxury Western wear. 217 S Galena St, Aspen, CO 81611; kemosabe.com
Explore Booksellers
Tucked inside a quaint, Victorian-style home is Explore bookstore, which o ers a diverse collection of books across genres, including local titles and authors. 221 E. Main Street, Aspen, CO 81611; explorebooksellers.com
STAY
St. Regis Aspen
The St. Regis Aspen o ers a luxurious mountain retreat with elegant design, world-class service, and indulgent amenities. Enjoy ne dining, a ski concierge, the
Remède Spa, and easy access to Aspen’s shops and slopes for an unforgettable stay. 315 E. Dean Street, Aspen, CO 81611; marriott.com
Viceroy Snowmass
Set against stunning Snowmass views, the resort provides year-round access to outdoor adventure, complete with luxurious accommodations and impeccable service. Guests enjoy a premier ski-in/ski-out experience, the 7,000-square-foot Ute Indian wellness-inspired spa, and exquisite dining at Toro Snowmass and NEST Bar & Grill. 130 Wood Rd, Snowmass Village, CO 81615; viceroyhotelsandresorts.com
W Aspen
This trendy boutique hotel combines chic design, a buzzing rooftop bar, and unparalleled access to the slopes for a modern Aspen escape. 550 S Spring Street, Aspen, CO 81611; marriott.com
Limelight Hotel
A favorite among adventurers, the Limelight o ers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a community-oriented vibe perfect for laidback stays. 355 S Monarch Street, Aspen, CO 81611; limelighthotels.com
DRINK
A sophisticated speakeasy at the W Aspen, Hidalgo is inspired by the renowned Employees Only. Led by Dushan Zaric, co-founder of the original NYC location, this chic bar o ers high-end agave cocktails and reimagined classics, bringing stylish nightlife and craft cocktails to Aspen. 550 S Spring Street, Aspen, CO 81611; marriott.com
Aspen Vodka
While in the mountains, raise a glass to Aspen Vodka, a locally crafted spirit distilled at high altitudes for a smooth, crisp avor. Enjoy its clean taste, perfect for sipping or mixing into your favorite cocktails at local bars or later at home. theaspenvodka.com
Stranahan’s Whiskey Lodge
Head to Stranahan’s Whiskey Lodge for an immersive experience with guided tours, whiskey tastings, and craft cocktails. Nestled in the mountains, it’s a perfect spot to explore the distilling process and enjoy signature spirits. 307 S Mill St, Aspen, CO 81611; stranahans.com
W Aspen
Stranahan’s Whiskey Lodge
Hidalgo
