Fashion Guide - How To Pack For Telluride Gay Ski Week
Telluride Gay Ski Week is right around the corner and it’s almost time to start picking out your outfits and packing!
Yes, you’ll need the requisite outerwear like waterproof ski jackets and pants but there’s so much more! With a week of themed parties, it can’t hurt to have a little guidance. Curated by our staff experts, we are proud to present the comprehensive Fashion and Packing Guide. Below is all the info you need for a week of fashion, fun and more!
Requisite Packing For The Event
Each day, the Telluride Gay Ski Week starts mid-morning and spans into the evening. During the daytime, winter in Telluride can range from sunny bluebird skies with highs in the 30’s to blizzard conditions with lows in the single-digits - we recommend bringing waterproof, quick-dry and insulating layers. Long underwear is a must! Waterproof boots and wool or synthetic moisture-wicking socks are also encouraged.
At an elevation of 8,750 ft, the UV rays can be intense and the air is dry so we recommend packing sunscreen and a water bottle to refill throughout the day.
Sunsets during this time of year typically happen around 6:00 pm and can be stunning; however, be prepared for the quick drop in temperatures when you’re out at Après-Ski each day from 4:00-7:00 pm. Even on a warm day, temperatures can swing more than twenty degrees in a matter of hours.
Need to rent or buy Mountain Gear? Visit our partners at Christy Sports, Boot Doctors and The Alpineer to get geared up.
Themed Parties
To make sure you fit right in (or stand out) at the special events throughout the week, you’ll need to think and plan ahead! Some of the events require a certain dress code, some are more casual and some are downright crazy! It’s not too late to hit your local thrift or shop online if you don’t already have the right lewks buried away in your closet.
Telluride AIDS Benefit Fashion Show
Saturday, February 22 at 7:00 pm at Telluride Conference Center
Continuing the cherished partnership between the Telluride AIDS Benefit (TAB) and Telluride Gay Ski Week, this year will kick off with the TAB Fashion Show Gala on Saturday, February 22, 2025. A highlight of the winter for many, the fundraising Fashion Show is considered one of Telluride's best productions and has been regarded as a “Broadway Pop-Up” and "Cirque du Soleil meets NY Fashion Week".
Stop by Communion Wine Bar before the Fashion Show for the first official Telluride Gay Ski Week Après ski event from 4 - 7pm.
Suggested attire: This is a red carpet event and there will be photographer upon entrance so wear something chic. This is Telluride Fashion week after all.
White Party ($) with Bears In Space
Thursday, February 27 at 9:00 pm Telluride Conference Center
A signature event highly regarded as one of the best parties of the year.
Suggested attire: Anything and everything white!
Ski Parade and Dancing on the Deck (FREE)
Friday, March 1 at 1:00 pm at top of chair lift #7 (close to the San Sophia mid-station of the Gondola) to Gorrono Ranch
Flag-bearing skiers and snowboarders will carry Pride flags while making turns down the mountain from the top of chair lift 7 to Gorrono Ranch to be welcomed by the DJ spinning tunes.
Suggested attire: It’s time to ski with that pride flag high! Dress in a way that allows you to show your pride while still being comfortable on the slopes. Incorporate rainbow-colored accessories into your ski outfit. Think of this as a pride parade on the mountain. Weather conditions can vary, so consider dressing in layers. Wear a rainbow-striped beanie, scarf, or goggles to add a pop of color to your ensemble. When the colorful Ski Parade arrives, the party will kick into high gear on the beautiful outdoor deck at Gorrono Ranch. Our local favorite music legend, CASTLE, will be spinning tunes for the dance party.
Don’t forget to pack your flags! A limited amount of progress pride flags will be available for purchase during the week at basecamp.
Hoedown After-Party ($) with Perfect Lovers & DAD SF
Friday, February 28 at 10 :00 pm Telluride Conference Center
Saddle up cowboys and cowgirls for a good ole barn burner. Lasso your compadres and giddy up to the western themed after-party following the Burlesque & Drag Show on Friday night at The Telluride Conference Center.
Suggested attire: Western, rodeo and country attire is strongly encouraged - think collared shirts with pearl snap fasteners, vaquero design accents, tassels, chaps, blue jeans, leather belts with buckles, cowboy hats and boots.
Pool Party ($) with DUGAN & DONNI3
Saturday, March at 12:00 PM The Peaks Resort & Spa
Take a break from the slopes and relax your muscles in a soothing, heated pool and multiple hot tubs. Of course, we'll have a DJ spinning tunes to keep the party vibes going strong. The pool party is bigger and better this year with a new venue, The Peaks Resort & Spa, featuring a larger indoor/outdoor space, coat check and a cash bar.
Suggested attire: Well, it’s a pool party so obviously bring swimwear of any kind. Bring a bathrobe if desired (not provided at venue) and all the requisite waterproof, quick-dry and insulating layers mentioned above to stay warm when the temperatures drop after sunset.
Glitter Ball ($) with Horse Meat Disco
Saturday, March 1 at 9PM Telluride Conference Center
Close out the week rocking your best sparkly fashion with a DJ, go-go dancers, sequins, glitter and everything shiny. Let’s get sparkly!
Suggested attire: Let’s get glittery! Get your sparkles on and rock something that shines bright. Whether it's a full-on glitter extravaganza or just a hint of sparkle, there are no wrong ways to shimmer at the Glitter Ball.
Après-ski - pronounced [AH]·[PRAY]·[SKI] - is the French phrase for social hour “after-skiing” and Telluride takes its Après-ski seriously. Join us at these dynamic social gatherings throughout the week to connect with others and cap-off a day on the slopes. When it comes to Après-Ski, we have it all - fancy cocktails, historic watering holes, incredible views, and several local breweries to explore. Kick back at the end of a long day in the mountains and enjoy!
Suggested attire: How well can you party in your ski boots? Glam it up or arrive right off the mountain. When heading to après-ski, it's important to strike the perfect balance between comfort and style. After a day on the slopes, most people opt for casual yet fashionable attire. Remember, the après ski scene is all about unwinding and socializing, so feel free to express your personal style while staying warm and comfortable.