Sofitel will begin rolling out its Le Vestiaire staff wardrobe, by French designer Cordelia de Castellane, with the collection seen across all 25,000 employees from front office to housekeeping, including at Sofitel Wentworth Sydney.
The refined tailored pieces, some featuring hand-drawn prints and Sofitel’s monogram, are designed for inclusivity and ease, reflecting the effortless chic of French style.
Le Vestiaire (or the changeroom in English) comprises more than 45 pieces including a selection of accessories, that enables employees across all climates and in all corners of the world to curate their own wardrobe to fit in with the local culture while maintaining Sofitel’s signature French elegance.
The introduction the Le Vestiaire wardrobe comes at a time when many Sofitel hotels are being renovated, including Sofitel New York and Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile, among others Maud Bailly, CEO for Sofitel, MGallery and Emblems, said.
“It was essential to me that our teams – the very essence of luxury – could also benefit from this new era of beauty,” Bailly said. “It felt only natural that they should shine more than ever. I am delighted by this collaboration with Cordelia de Castellane, who has perfectly captured the spirit of a refined, timeless wardrobe, celebrating French elegance and luxury.”
Designed in collaboration with French designer Cordelia de Castellane, the collection channels timeless Parisian style in Le Vestiaire, shaped by de Castellane’s career in French couture and the ateliers where she perfected her craft.
In a palette of navy blue, coconut milk, beige, and denim blue the collection includes belts and scarf brooches that feature the Cultural Link, Sofitel’s iconic logo symbolising a bridge between cultures.
Apparel includes the unisex Saharan Jacket, a modern take on the classic safari jacket, tailored with discreet structure and Sofitel branded buttons. Meanwhile a tailored vest, blends couture precision with everyday ease. Sofitel’s signature midi dress pairs tailored shoulders with a pleated skirt and finished with the signature belt and Cultural Link buckle.
Meanwhile, the graphic Sofitel logo is reinterpreted through a series of exclusive monogram prints, woven into scarves, shirts, dresses, and ties, transforming the brand’s visual signature into a refined and luxurious design language.
“I didn’t want to create uniforms, I wanted to design a vestiaire,” Cordelia de Castellane, French fashion designer, said. “The idea is simple: pick and choose a look that fits the right place and the right position. Most importantly, I knew I didn’t want to lock people into a specific uniform. Sofitel is a great French brand that has set out on an adventure and has truly established a legacy.
“This collaboration felt very natural because we share the same values: a love of beauty, attention to detail and a deep respect for craftsmanship and comfort. Together, we created a vestiaire that speaks the language of Sofitel’s luxury hospitality: warm, refined and effortlessly French.”
“Fashion is never neutral. It influences our mood every day. I wanted these pieces to feel positive and reassuring, clothes that support people emotionally as much as visually, and that reflect the warmth and elegance of Sofitel’s hospitality.”
Staff across the world have responded positively to Le Vestiaire which was shaped by those who will wear it every day.
“Working at Sofitel New York, the pace is fast and the guests are diverse, and the uniform works with that reality. It still feels French at heart, but with a New York edge that makes sense for our hotel,” said one employee.
“It feels much more modern than what we’ve worn before,” said another. “Working in Guest Services, I’m constantly moving around the lobby, helping guests and responding quickly, and the uniform just feels easier to move in. It fits the energy of Sofitel today – elegant, but not rigid.”
Another added: “I like that we have options now. As someone working in Front Office, we’re often the first people guests see, so it’s great knowing I can always look like the best version of myself. Being able to switch pieces depending on the day keeps it fresh, while still looking unmistakably Sofitel.”
“It means something knowing it was designed in Paris. As a Concierge, guests often comment on what we’re wearing or ask about the details, so it’s nice to share that Sofitel is a French brand and that the uniform reflects that heritage. It becomes part of the guest experience and the story we tell.”
