Style : Fashion : The Great White Robe

Like a Chanel handbag or a Burberrys raincoat, the white terry-cloth robe has earned a place in the hall of fame. Oh, there have been challengers over the years--silks and satins, plaids and paisleys. But like all fads, they come and go. For lounging by the pool or lingering over breakfast, nothing beats a plain but plush terry cocoon.

As proof of the white robe’s timeless appeal, posh hotels never fail to supply them to pamper their guests, and better stores always seem to stock a selection for people who want one for keeps. This season’s standouts include Hammacher Schlemmer’s ankle-length version, made from real Turkish towels, and Fernando Sanchez’s rendition, trimmed in satin. What better way to relax and unwind? Photographed at Chateau Marmont; hair and makeup: Patrick Lucas/A’Capello; models: Erica Anderson/ Elite, Erick Jussen/ OMAR’s Men