I’ve always hankered after a wardrobe trunk of the sort used by Hollywood film stars in the days before air travel. Alas, even if I could afford vintage LV (and had enough glamorous items to pack in it), I doubt I could run to the excess baggage charges. But I think I’ve found the answer: The Berkeley hotel’s new fashion trunk. You don’t even have to pack it: it’s waiting in your room, filled with designer items. Crescent Suite, The BerkeleyWell known for its love of fashion, the Knightsbridge hotel was after something suitably à la mode to launch its new suites this month. So it has teamed up with digital vintage fashion boutique Vestiaire Collective to offer guests the chance to borrow rare designs from the Fifties, Sixties and Seventies, all packed in a beautiful calf leather steamer trunk. Fanny Moizant, vintage specialist and one of the founders of Vestiaire Collective, has selected some of her favourite pieces from leading labels such Christian Dior, Chanel and Hermès and for guests who can’t bear to return items to the trunk at the end of the evening, there is the option to buy. Never mind the clothes, I’ve got my eye on the trunk, made in England by Norton MacCullough & Locke.Pret-a-Portea, The BerkeleyAnd where to wear such finery? To tea, of course. Next month the hotel will be celebrating the 10th anniversary of its legendary Prêt-à-Portea afternoon tea. Inspired by the latest fashion collections, the teas change twice a year to reflect the latest Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter key trends. Want to know what’s in? Just check out the cake stand. If you fancy having a go yourself, there is a book out next month to show you how it’s done: Prêt-à-Portea, High Fashion Bakes & Biscuits (£12.95), featuring more than 20 secret recipes and baking techniques from the hotel’s Head Pastry Chef, Mourad Khiatg.

The Berkeley Fashion Trunk is a complimentary service for guests staying in the new suites at The Berkeley ranging from a Chelsea Suite to a Berkeley Suite to the new Terrace Suites by John Heah, from £1,200 per night. Prêt-a-Portea is currently £45, rising to £52 from September 1.

BY MAGGIE O’SULLIVAN