I don’t typically believe in fashion rules. When it comes to skiing attire, however, there’s one guideline that’s definitely worth following. Unofficially, you’re not encouraged to ski in an all-white outfit because you blend in with the snow, making it harder for other skiers to see you (and avoid hitting you). This is particularly true if it’s snowing hard and/or is windy, reducing visibility. Plus, heaven forbid there’s an emergency such as an avalanche, an all-white outfit makes you less visible and harder to be rescued. This is why you’ll see most skiers and snowboarders wearing colorful attire to contrast with the snow.

There are, of course, exceptions to this unspoken rule. If you’re on the bunny slope with a private instructor on a sunny day, like Hailey Bieber was this week, these issues aren’t very concerning. So although Bieber wore a white jacket and white pants to ski in Aspen, I don’t fault her for it whatsoever—in fact, she looked exceptionally chic (as usual). Just consider this your reminder that colorful ski attire is a wise investment for newbies.

Hailey Bieber’s White Ski Outfit in Aspen

Stay Safer in Colorful Ski Clothes Instead of White