The hotel gift shop trend in New York began with The Ace installing spin-offs of the hip Project No. 8 and Opening Ceremony, and continued with the Standard's in-house boutique. But the most innovative, tongue-in-chic installments were launched by Morgans Hotel Group last week: super-luxe vending machines at the Hudson—and at St. Martins Lane in London.
The Semi-Automatic at Hudson is divided into five categories: basics, media, fashion, beauty, and "GoFish." Items include Paul Smith toothbrushes, paperback copies of Catcher in the Rye, travel kits from Malin + Goetz, and the most coveted items: a personal portrait shoot with photographer Ben Watts, and a Ferrari 599 GTB rental courtesy of Gotham Dream Cars.
The Love Machine by Selfridge's at St. Martins Lane launched for London Fashion Week and is available until October 15. Six categories—accessories, beauty, menswear, womenswear, food, and home—include Comme des Garçons embossed leather wallets, Alexander Wang leather dresses, tea biscuits, and Diptyque Mimosa candles, just to name a few.
Photos: Courtesy of Morgans Hotel Group
What a great idea! Love these designer influences popping up around London hotels. Check out a review of St. Martin's Lane here- http://thepurplepassport.com/picks/London/Hotel/st-martins-lane-hotel/