It doesn't matter whether you can hug the slopes like a Bond girl or just about stand up on skis, what's really important is how good you look on the piste says Francine Miller.

Whether you're a fully signed-up snow bunny or just heading for the Alps to take advantage of the apres-ski, looking ultra stylish on your snow break is a must.

Gone are the days when skiers in fluorescent-striped jumpsuits looked on enviously at the snowboarders' trendy outfits. The ski-wear industry is now well-equipped to kit out even the fussiest fashionista for the slopes.

Looking sophisticated and sporty in the snow is a must, but wear the wrong thing and you could end up looking like Bambi on ice. Maximum comfort, warmth and manoeuvrability are key in your ski-wear shopping, but style doesn't have to suffer.

Starting with the core, you'll be on the slippery slope to being wet and cold without a decent set of layers.

Essentials for your luggage include base layers such as silk thermals, a warm fleece, waterproof and windproof ski pants and ski jacket, or ski jumpsuit, waterproof gloves, a warm hat (not wool) and a pair of ski goggles or sunglasses with high UV protection.

Accessories are all-important for keeping warm and protecting your peepers. There's no chance of losing John Lewis' hot pink ski goggles, £45, in the snow.

Start your ski wardrobe with the essential base layers. You don't have to blow the budget for a set of good quality thermals, which will keep you cosy under your fleece and outer layers.

Try Marks & Spencer's thermal long sleeve vest, £10, and diamond pointelle leggings, £10, to keep you snug.

Although not designed to be seen on the slopes, a fleece will keep you toasty warm. The perfect fleece will depend on when you've booked your ski break, as you'll need a thicker style in the winter months, than if you hit the slopes in spring. For comfort and style, opt for a wrap fleece, £60, from SweatyBetty, www.sweatybetty.com, or a figure hugging fleece hoody £50, also from SweatyBetty.

To really stand out from the snow crowd, try Topshop's super-stylish Sno range, which has a bright red ski fleece, or a contrast grey ski fleece, both £35.

There are many classic and tailored-style jackets this season that offer flattering cuts with a combination of stretch material and contours.

Those who want to stand out on the slopes will lap up SweatyBetty's range, which includes hot pink Plus Minus by Chiemsee, pants and jacket, £80 each. Topshop's Sno camouflage pullover ski jacket, £100, teamed with slim fit ski pants, £70, should also fit the bill.

The one-piece has strayed off the fashion radar for a while, but looks set for a big revival. The ultra-glam Roxy Ivana T jumpsuit from SweatyBetty, £185, is the perfect choice, finished in khaki green with a funky fur-trim collar.