Last year, with hospitality plans thwarted, many hoteliers came up with a side hustle that the style set found irresistible: merch. Its appeal to those with wanderlust was obvious: a bit of humble-brag brand loyalty; a way of telling the world who you are and where you choose to escape to. In fact, picking up these sought-after souvenirs to show your support became a reason to travel in its own right. So here’s what’s on our stay-and-shop wishlist right now…
SIX SENSES IBIZA
Since Six Senses opened its Ibiza outpost in July last year, guests have fawned not only over its infinity pool and glittering sea views, but also its sustainable shop-cum-event space Agora. You’ll find plenty of environmentally-focused collaborations featuring local artisans, as well as a weekly market selling handmade treasures. The hotel’s pairing with Italian brand La Double J – an organic cotton bath robe covered in a vibrant floral print – filled Instagram feeds last autumn, as tastemakers posed on their private terraces wearing them. The collaboration was made all the more alluring through its exclusivity: the robes, which hang in the wardrobes of every room, are only available to buy from the resort itself.
SUNSET TOWER HOTEL, LA
Given Sunset Tower’s credentials as one of Hollywood’s most distinguished addresses (former guests have included Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Jennifer Lopez, erm, John Wayne’s cow), it comes as no surprise that it should have been among the first to launch a desirable line of merchandise. The hotel has teamed up with cult label Sporty & Rich to create a collection of comfortable separates with a nostalgic appeal.
PALM HEIGHTS, CAYMAN ISLANDS
Guests at Palm Heights in the Caribbean lounge on the sand in wearable pieces from its gift shop, from slides and baseball caps to T-shirts and hoodies (Vogue’s Sarah Harris has already pictured in one the branded hats). Also available are the sunshine striped towels that have become the destination’s signature. Look out for the chic collaboration with CFDA winner Emily Abode, who has upcycled the aforementioned terry cloth towels to create a summer-ready jacket that will prove the perfect cover-up.
HOTEL SAN JOSE, AUSTIN
The creative, artsy clientele of Hotel San Jose in Austin can now take a slice of this consistently cool spot home. Choose between vintage-inspired branded T-shirts, limited edition SXSW posters, kimono-style robes, even the hotel’s signature paisley reversible duvet covers. There’s also a well curated selection of books that celebrate Austin itself which make for perfect gifts or coffee-table mementos. Bag up your purchases in one of the branded totes: we love the cacti-covered style.
GRAND HOTEL TREMEZZO, LAKE COMO
Fill your home and wardrobe with the sophistication of Grand Hotel Tremezzo, one of the most luxurious destination on Lake Como. They sell plenty of apparel and accessories, but it’s the signature candles, fragrances and room diffusers that really stand out – who wouldn’t want to bottle the floral scent of those lush gardens, or the freshness of the cool lake breeze? Indulge yourself and add the shampoo and conditioner set too.
VILLA LA COSTE, FRANCE
Art has always been a focus at Villa La Coste, nestled as it is in Cezane’s garden in Provence. Its modern, sleek architecture and impressive gallery have made it a favourite among high-minded tastemakers, and its line of merch – via the surrounding sculpture park Chateau La Coste – is an added bonus. If you don’t want to splash out on a piece of art, then its bijou items are just as tempting – our personal highlights are the Louise Bourgeois tea towel and Jean-Michel Basquiat illustrated tote bags.
THE STANDARD, LONDON
When the Standard finally made the leap to London in 2019, it quickly became the go-to hangout for discerning music and fashion types. On top of the buzzy atmosphere, 70s-cool decor and rooftop bar, we now have a line of branded T-shirts, bags, hoodies, caps and swimwear. The hotel also stocks collaborations with various creatives, including body-shaped candles from artist Bonam Kim and colourful, stainless steel reusable bottles from Lund London.
Looking to bring some international flair to your home? Here are some of our favourite brands