Front office host Margarita takes to the runway in the Grand Salon, displaying art in motion in this light catching, heavily pleated skirt inspired by facets of Baccarat crystal 
Fresh off a Hospitality Design Award, The Baccarat Hotel & Residences New York, might just win a fashion award next.
We’ve toured the opulent guest rooms of the hotel and now we’re taking a focused look at the Baccarat uniforms. Or rather, the art of the uniforms.
One might assume that a high-profile luxury hotel would select a household (er, palace) name of French haute couture to design custom apparel for the staff. Oh, that would be too predictable, not to mention a tough choice.
Under the acutely watchful eye of Kemper Hyers, Senior Vice President of Design at Starwood Capital Group, along with Baccarats all things visual team, freelance pattern maker Venucia de Russi was commissioned in lieu of going with a single design studio.
De Russi has worked with a Who’s Who of top fashion designers, including Chloe, Valentino, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Alexander McQueen, and Versus Versace.
The design objective was straightforward– translate the elegance of Baccarat crystal and decorative art into classic one-of-a-kind apparel. We think theyve done that in a most complementary way.
Heres a glimpse of the informal fashion show that was exclusively arranged for HotelChatter, graciously modeled by Baccarat staff.
Kelvin, Baccarats eloquent doorman, shows off his summer wardrobe above in this nicely tailored, vested suit. Dont be fooled by Kelvins formality not only can he strike a pose but he will make you smile before the (automatic) door is fully open.
Kerry, seen above, is modeling a stretch velvet, cocktail dress in the space we just cant get enough of–Le Bar. Were using black and white to show how well this timeless dress fits the setting. The design emulates the smooth, angular lines of a single piece of Baccarat, as in a chandelier drop, or a jeweled necklace.
Margarita looks balletic in this highly textural, wonderfully feminine, skirt, also shown in the opening photo. The deep creases and definition in the skirt react differently under varying light conditions, not unlike a Baccarat chandelier.
This close-up of a hostess uniform in organza and silk, modeled by Liz in the Petit Salon, speaks to an eternally feminine, Parisian style that by day or night, is appropriately elegant.
Overall what really sold it for us was how well the uniforms complimented the hotel’s interiors. The classic simplicity of the dresses, especially when seen in the heavily accessorized salons, is what makes them stand out. No accident, all planned.
Perhaps now theres an alternate option to the terry cloth robe as a take home amenity?
[Photos: DesignMinder for HotelChatter]