The home-bound crowd who spent the pandemic dreaming of being elsewhere can now travel more easily — and do so in style.
Orient Express, the luxury rail service famed for its nearly century-long Paris-to-Istanbul line — and for its cars dressed with velvet and crystal — will soon release a stock of high-gloss travel, and travel-inspired objects, thanks to a new collaboration with 18 high-end houses and designers.
Set to be available at Orient-Express.com on July 15 (and at the just-reopened La Samaritaine department store in Paris), “Steam Dream” will encompass items for traveling, lounging, dining and sleeping — with names including Bang & Olufsen, Bernardaud and Smythson.
The collection’s release is a new step in the brand’s future.
Though the Orient Express hasn’t trekked from Paris to Istanbul since 1977, the Venice-Simplon Orient Express, owned by Belmond, operates trips between London and Venice, and a number of other European cities, in restored train carriages — and will soon include hotels.
From sunglasses to baggage and even a backgammon trunk, there’s something to suit any traveler’s taste.
Here’s a look at what they can get.
Wax philosophical
‣ Trudon: This exclusive candle features hand-applied gold leaf and a 24-karat gold coat of arms.
Tile by combat
‣ Hector Saxe: A Midnight Blue mahjong set may just be too pretty to play with.
Tray magnifique
‣ Atelier Philippe Allemand: Handsome trays also reflect the wooden and brass train
interiors.
We’re big fans
‣ Duvelleroy: A sycamore frame and a honey-colored shade nod to the train’s interior tones.
Sleep in the cabozzze
‣ Circu: Sweet dreams are made of this. Children can have a nighttime getaway in this sleeping car replica.
Trunk in public
‣ Au Départ: No junk in this trunk — this limited-edition piece carries a turntable, candles and books.
It’s in the bag
‣ Au Départ: A travel bag whose rich blue color matches Orient Express’ signature Midnight Blue.
Acting shady
‣ Maison Bonnet: The Parisian eyewear designer created just 20 pairs in limited edition.
Dish it out
‣ Bernardaud: Porcelain plates for stunning tablescapes reflect the train’s decorative patterns and graphic codes.
Be the toast of the town
‣ Casarialto: These hand-painted wine glasses boast Art Deco-style curves, inspired
by the train’s restaurant and bar cars.
