When it comes to discerning taste, fashion designers have a keen eye for detail and exquisite experiences. So when they recommend a hidden gem, a family-owned hotel on a rugged Italian island, like creative director Gherardo Felloni’s favorite, you know it’s a must-visit. For this group, it’s all about the atmosphere, the service, and the little details that elevate a stay into something truly special. From the striped cabana cushions at Villa Feltrinelli, deemed “perfection” by Carolina Herrera’s Wes Gordon, to the cinematic charm of Cape Town’s Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel, as described by Thebe Magugu (“I feel like a character playing a role whenever I stay”), these designers offer a curated list of their favorite hotels around the world.
Ludovic de Saint Sernin:
Hotel Esencia in Mexico is a dream destination for the designer. He and his boyfriend have enjoyed numerous romantic days at this idyllic resort, praising the rooms, food, and beach for their perfection.
Aurora James:
The Post Ranch Inn in California offers a unique escape for the founder of Brother Vellies. She describes it as a magical place where mornings are spent hiking through redwood trails, afternoons by the pool surrounded by high-elevation clouds, and evenings watching sunsets over the ocean. A true haven for disconnecting and experiencing pure bliss.
J.J. Martin:
Passalacqua, a hotel on Lake Como, holds a special place in the heart of the founder of La DoubleJ. She feels an instant shift in energy upon arriving, experiencing everything as brighter, bouncier, and more beautiful. The hotel embodies the best of Italian luxury – grand yet intimate, offering a unique and personal experience. The collaboration with La DoubleJ on the pool area, bar, and glasshouse lounge further elevates the hotel’s charm.
Emilia Wickstead:
For the designer, Passalacqua encapsulates the essence of a well-dressed life. The effortless elegance permeates every aspect of the villa, from the architecture and interiors to the gardens and breathtaking views. The hotel even inspired her latest vacation capsule, Emilia Wickstead x Passalacqua.
Thebe Magugu:
The Belmond Mount Nelson in Cape Town is a must-stay for the designer, who appreciates its cinematic appearance. He describes it as a Wes Anderson-esque hotel, with whimsical gardens, precise service, and friendly staff, all contributing to an unforgettable experience.
Margherita Maccapani Missoni:
Il Pellicano in Porto Ercole, Italy, offers a timeless escape for the designer. She finds it a unique place that transcends time, allowing for true escapism.
Jackson Wiederhoeft:
Nemacolin, a magical spot in the Laurel Highlands outside of Pittsburgh, is the designer’s favorite hotel. The life-changing spa and storybook scenery, coupled with the owner’s extraordinary vision, create a truly immersive experience. Wiederhoeft’s involvement in projects like redesigning staff uniforms and costuming a holiday village showcases the multidisciplinary approach to hospitality.
Catherine Holstein:
GoldenEye in Jamaica holds a special place for the designer. The couple visits twice a year for the feeling of serenity it provides, especially enjoying evenings spent in the lagoon.
Brandon Maxwell:
Blackberry Farm in Tennessee is a special place for the designer, filled with personal and family memories. The beauty, cozy atmosphere, and warm hospitality make it a comforting retreat.
Erdem Moralıoğlu:
The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel in New York, is one of the designer’s favorites. He envisions it as a glimpse into the city’s past, offering a timeless elegance. The spacious rooms and the renowned martinis at Bemelmans Bar make it an exceptional experience.
Wes Gordon:
Choosing between Villa Feltrinelli on Lake Garda in Italy and Hotel La Réserve in Paris is a tough one for the designer. Both offer a magical escape, transporting guests to another world. The pool at La Réserve is his favorite Parisian exercise spot, while the striped cabana cushions at Villa Feltrinelli are pure perfection.
Gherardo Felloni:
While he loves numerous hotels, the Pardini’s Hermitage on the island of Giglio, Italy, holds a special place in the designer’s heart. The family hotel, surrounded by cypresses and the shimmering sea, creates a peaceful haven where time stands still.
Adam Lippes:
The designer has a multitude of favorites, including grand dames like Ritz Paris, Claridge’s, and the Hotel Bel-Air. However, Amansara in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is his ultimate pick. The modernist structure, once the king’s guest house, offers an exquisite blend of aesthetics, luxury, and impeccable service.
Nell Diamond:
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in France is a treasured destination for the designer, holding special memories from her wedding there. The stunning diving board into the sea offers a freeing and breathtaking experience.
Jonathan Simkhai:
Montage Deer Valley in Utah, especially during winter, is a favorite for the designer. The ski-in/ski-out access and on-site bowling alley make it a perfect family getaway.
Charlotte Chesnais:
Samena, a one-bedroom retreat owned by her friend Olivier, offers a romantic escape in a secluded setting right next to the sea. It’s a private and authentic sanctuary.
Charlotte Chesnais:
Hoshinoya Fuji, a renowned Japanese hotel chain with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, offers an unparalleled experience for the designer. The exceptional quality and service, combined with the natural beauty, make it a truly unique escape.
Alexis Mabille:
Le Meurice in Paris holds a special place for the designer. He appreciates the timeless decor of Bar 228, the friendly staff, and the cozy atmosphere. For him, it’s a chic and comfortable retreat for quiet moments or meetings.
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