the area's popularity, the slopes are often blissfully unpopulated – which is why it's a favorite with Jennifer Aniston, Cameron Diaz and Catherine Zeta-Jones. There are also some major black diamond runs on Aspen Mountain that will challenge even the most experienced skier (beginners head to Buttermilk).

WHERE TO STAY: For off-piste action, the Viceroy Snowmass resort is a must. Interior designer Jean-Michel Gathy has brought cool, polished modernity to traditional, wood-paneled Colorado chic.

SKI STYLE: Cashmere, sunglasses and Tory Burch handbags. viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/snowmass

Verbier, Switzerland

WHY GO? A favorite destination of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, this pretty ski town turns into Mayfair in the mountains during the winter. This season, one of the hottest tickets will be a table at pop-up restaurant Pot Luck Club at the Hotel Farinet. There's also a new sushi bar at boutique hotel Nevaï and its sister hotel, the Cordée des Alpes, opened last week offering Karin Herzog spa treatments.

WHERE TO STAY: The most stylish chalet to take over for the season is still The Lodge – Richard Branson's Swiss outpost. It's a 21st-century take on the traditional chalet, with clean lines, indoor and outdoor jacuzzis and a private ice rink.

SKI STYLE: Burberry's down jackets and Adidas by Stella McCartney by day, and the Duchess of Cambridge's favorite, Issa, for eveningwear. cdaverbier.ch; thelodge.virgin.com; hotelnevai.com