A true snow bunny will trek far and wide for the perfect slope, and Hellessy’s designer Sylvie Millstein is an admitted ice queen. Born and raised in France, she began skiing in the French Alps at the young age of eight. And, while she may not consider herself a pro (going down a Black Diamond still stresses her out!), her vacations are typically spent in the snow with family and friends rather than soaking up the sun on a sandy beach. Now, with a family of her own, she’s on the hunt for the best snow–from family-friendly getaways to across-the-world adventures. We caught up with the designer on her favorite skiing destinations, how her jaunts on the slopes inspire her designs and what she packs for each snowy stopover.
FOR THE BEST APRÉS SKI: PARK CITY, UTAH
St Regis Deer Valley
“This is the perfect destination for skiers of all levels who value easy access to the slopes. I stay here with my husband and children every season. My aprés ski activities have changed quite a bit since I’ve had my two children…These days, they include dog-sled rides, swimming in a heated pool, sipping hot cocoa and playing board games by the fireplace. The J&G Grill by Jean-George is my favorite for aprés-ski dining–they serve the most delicious salads and fish. My two sons love to make s’mores after dinner in their fire pits.”
The Montage Park City
“The Montage is a fresh, new option in Deer Valley for skiers. It is also the chicest and most perfect place to grab lunch and drinks after you’re finished hitting the slopes.”
The Aprés Ski Packing List:
Left: A casual night at the St. Regis; Hellessy “Vladimir” cocoon cardigan in blush, $1,380, barneys.com; Thom Browne mirrored lens aviators, $700, sense.com; Buscemi “Alta High Top” sneakers in white, $890, buscemi.com. Right: dinner and drinks at The Montage; Hellessy “Anatoi” shirt dress in marsala, $1,350, barneys.com; Rag & Bone skinny jeans, $195, rag-bone.com; Aperlai “Lucie” sandals, $575, aperlai.com.
FOR THE SEASONED SKIER: JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING
Amangani
“Here, there are fewer beginner trails. I love The Amangani because it provides a more scenic experience and has the most incredible mountain views.”
FOR THE WOLRLD TRAVELER: HOKKAIDO, JAPAN
MUSE Niseko
“This is my favorite destination for skiing abroad. This hotel is perfect for the skier who appreciates minimalism and skiing on powder snow. It was designed by my friend Riccardo Tossani, and the penthouse has an extraordinary view. The hotel is centrally located and right by Kamimura, a Michelin-starred restaurant that is absolutely delicious.”
The In-Flight Wardrobe:
Hellessy “Sergei” fringe coat, $2,100, barneys.com; Francesco Russo boots, $1,602, matchesfashion.com; Jennifer Fisher “H” and “L” double pendant necklace (“for my two sons, Hendrix and Lennox”), $4,400, jenniferfisher.com; Saint Laurent mid-waist leather leggings, $2,190, ysl.com; Inez & Vinoodh enamel rings in red and black, $920 each, prettymuchanything.com.
NEXT ON THE LIST: COURCHEVEL, FRANCE
The Cheval Blanc
“This is my next ski destination that I am really looking forward to. I used to ski here as a child and our plan for 2017 is to revisit it together as a family. This resort is perfect for skiers from all levels who enjoy white glove service. Ski equipment and ski boots are laid out and pre-heated for you! ”