Sandra‘s Closet

The latest addition to its LES EXCLUSIFS DE CHANEL fragrance collection, aptly named COMÈTE, is inspired by the cosmos and I am absolutely obsessed.

Each of these Eaux de Parfum in the collection reveals one of Gabrielle Chanel’s character traits, writing a page from her life, sketching the outlines of one of her designs, or illustrating a symbol that guided her steps. COMÈTE is literally born under a lucky star.

Gabrielle Chanel let the stars be her guide, revolutionising the world of jewellery in 1932 with her unique «Bijoux de Diamants» collection and its legendary Comète necklace, whose shooting star nestles into the hollow of the neck.

«I WANTED TO COVER WOMEN IN CONSTELLATIONS. STARS! (…) SEE THESE COMETS, WHERE THE HEAD GLITTERS ON A SHOULDER, AND THE SPARKLING TAIL SLIPS BEHIND THE SHOULDERS TO FALL BACK DOWN IN A SHOWER OF STARS ON THE CHEST…»

Gabrielle Chanel.

Intensely floral and luminous, COMÈTE explores a new olfactory identity in the LES EXCLUSIFS DE CHANEL collection. Rich and powdery, sophisticated and complex, it is a universe in itself. A fresh cherry blossom accord, luminous and intense, is elevated by sensual notes of heliotrope and iris in this intense floral «stardust» scent, which is housed in a bottle whose design aligns with the sober aesthetic created for the collection.

COMÈTE. A new star in the constellation of LES EXCLUSIFS DE CHANEL is in stores now for CHF 245 (75ML) and CHF 440 (200ML).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © CHANEL
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Another designer who steps into the fast food trend this season is Saint Laurent with its latest bag that will capture the attention of It girls everywhere. As the name suggests, Saint Laurent’s Take-Away bag finds inspiration in takeaway containers. Mimicking the well-known box that comes bearing your favourite cuisine, this embossed piece promises to add some fun to your accessory rotation, while the logo hardware reinforces that it is the most expensive happy meal daily.

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It’s a little more pricey than your average cheeseburger and french fries combo meal. The style comes in camel with gold hardware and black with silver hardware, engraved with the diamond-shaped YSL monogram.⁠

The Embossed Take-Away Box Bag by Saint Laurent is available here.

However, this style has been sported before by CHANEL (Paris – Shanghai Pre-fall 2010) and Moschino (F/W 2014). As I always say, keep your pieces, there will always be a time again!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © YSL and © Sandra Bauknecht
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This must-have is no cheap date! The vibrant floral design on this LOUIS VUITTON Flower burger box will brighten up any table or countertop. Inside are six practical coasters in colors inspired by different hamburger ingredients, such as crisp green for lettuce and a tomato red. A push-stud design allows the piece to open and close with ease. I am loving it!

The LOUIS VUITTON FLOWER BURGER BOX is exclusively available at 24s here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton 
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The scent of the sun is a sensation. Soothing and strengthening, it is an extract of energy: a perfume of opportunity and enhancement.

In his first involvement in a fragrance project for Louis Vuitton, Pharrell Williams asked Jacques Cavallier Belletrud to capture the light which is the essence of into a highly crafted men’s fragrance for a global community collectively uplifted by the warmth that radiates from the sun.

LVERS was conceived through a creative dialogue between Pharrell Williams and Jacques Cavallier Belletrud and crafted in the Louis Vuitton creative atelier at Les Fontaines Parfumées in Grasse, France.

For this new collaborative opus, the Master Perfumer kept a cross-generational approach at heart, involving in the creative process Camille Cavallier Belletrud, perfumer at Louis Vuitton and member of the creative studio, who was trained at the Maison under the mentorship of the Master Perfumer for many years, cultivating the DNA of the house.

Founded in the Men’s Creative Director’s philosophy of sunlight as a metaphor for love and a source of life and motivation across human experiences, it echoes the question posed upon his arrival at Louis Vuitton: What will you do when the sun shines on you?

Distilled into Eau de parfum, the original idea has to take new form. «The theme of sunlight that lit up Pharrell’s debut show on Pont Neuf in June 2023 inspired us to convey photosynthesis in scent. It may sound abstract, but if you look at life, photosynthesis is the starting point for everything,» Jacques Cavallier Belletrud says.

LVERS conveys in fragrance the figurative yet familiar scent of the sun illuming the skin, energising the vitality of nature, and giving life to the organisms that surround us. With olfactive alchemy, the Master Perfumer transforms the abstract scent of sunlight into earthly matter. Observing the science of photosynthesis, the Maison’s expert identified the notes that emanate from nature as a result of the vitalising power of light: the luxuriance of leaves caressed by rays; the evaporating nectar of freshly grown grass; the warm earthiness of tree trunks expanding under the forest sun. Within the study, pure and ancient natural substances are unearthed.

Galbanum, the mythical resin of the Ferula plant rarely used in modern-day fragrances, is revitalised and refined from its wild, vegetal state. Like a diamond in the rough, the centuries-old scent is cultivated into delicate green notes, creating the sappy and spicy core of the LVERS bouquet. It is grounded in the bottom note of cedarwood. Extracted from second-hand wood from carpentry, the oil’s deep woody sensibility establishes the indefinable but recognisable olfactic sensation universally associated with the forest. Harmonised with the creaminess of sandalwood, it sets an earthy but elegant tone for the fragrance, energised by the clean crispness of ginger. The composition is raised by the fruity, zesty top notes of bergamot, gently announcing the galbanum in a figurative illustration of the early rays of sunrise. Echoing the therapeutic force of the sun, each of the LVERS ingredients is rooted in age-old cultural practices connected to notions of healing. In Ancient Greece, galbanum was employed as a curative remedy, while in Ancient Egypt, cedarwood oil was used as a means of preservation and to ward off evil spirits. In Eastern medicine, sandalwood is a key component alongside ginger, widely known for its health benefits. Across cultures, bergamot has been considered a tool for both mental and physical renewal. The healing powers traditionally linked to the ingredients infuse LVERS with a holistic air: the idea of fragrance as an elixir of well-being; a spray of sunlight distilled in a bottle.

Fashioned in the cylindrical signature silhouette of Louis Vuitton’s Les Parfums, the LVERS flacon reflects, refracts and imitates the sunlight. A prismatic finish electrifies the glass structure coloured from within by a golden jus, evoking the bright effect of sunlight gilding the skin. Introduced alongside the fragrance, a travel case and a fragrance trunk – which holds three bottles – are crafted in the green Damoflage motif. Central to the creative expression of Pharrell Williams at Louis Vuitton, the graphic splices the Maison’s heritage Damier pattern with camouflage, a signifier in the personal style lexicon of the Men’s Creative Director.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton
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Even that Johannesburg is presumably dangerous, walking around in Melrose Arch is pretty safe as it is gated and has a lot of security measurements. It has high-end shops, restaurants, and hotels. Given its premium status, it’s a fitting location for showcasing luxury brands such as Rolls-Royce, as well as having the armoured car service dealer just across.

My look: Cropped knitted cardigan, Sahara cropped stretch-knit top, and jacquard-knit wide-leg pants, all by Alaïa, Kate 100 suede pumps by Christian Louboutin, wallet on chain, bag charm earrings, necklace with pink bag charm, chain belt with hoop bag charm, and round sunglasses, all by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Greetings from Johannesburg, where I spent some amazing days. South Africa’s largest city and financial hub presents a complex tapestry of contrasts. It’s known for its stark disparities, where opulent neighborhoods and extreme wealth coexist alongside significant poverty and crime.

Outside of my hotel in Melrose Arch.

Johannesburg has a reputation for high crime rates, particularly in certain areas. As a result, security measures are pronounced such as armoured cars and security services. My hotel was in Melrose Arch, which is renowned for its world-class safety due to fences and security gates. Many homes in affluent areas are surrounded by high fences, electric gates, and security cameras. Private security firms patrol these neighborhoods regularly.

Despite the security concerns, Johannesburg is also a city of considerable affluence: It’s not uncommon to see high-end cars like Rolls-Royces, Ferraris, and Bentleys on the streets, especially in wealthy suburbs like Sandton and Houghton. The city also boasts numerous luxury shopping malls, upscale restaurants, and exclusive boutiques, catering to the affluent population.

Nelson Mandela Square is linked to Sandton City shopping center and is one of the most fashionable destinations in Johannesburg.

This juxtaposition of wealth and security highlights the broader socio-economic inequalities. Many residents live in townships and informal settlements, where poverty is rampant, and access to basic services can be limited. However, Johannesburg remains a land of opportunity for many, attracting people from across Africa seeking better economic prospects, which contributes to its diverse and dynamic character.

Everything can be found in Sandton City, from high end designer brands, to weapons and meat.

Johannesburg’s history, shaped by the gold rush and apartheid, continues to influence its current dynamics. The city is also a cultural hub, with a vibrant art scene, numerous museums, and a rich history reflected in landmarks like the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill. There are ongoing efforts to revitalize parts of the city, like the Maboneng Precinct, which aim to create safer, more inclusive urban spaces.

Armed convoy for our way to the airport with a bodyguard in our car and another car following us. You get quickly used to these security measures.

In summary, Johannesburg’s contradictions are a microcosm of broader issues facing South Africa, where wealth and poverty, security and danger, coexist in a dynamic and complex urban landscape.

Fantastic meat at the Butcher Shop and Grill.

In case you are visiting Johannesburg, I recommend eating some of the local specialities. Red wine and meat in South Africa are excellent and prices are really low for us Europeans and it might be worth it bringing some steaks home.

Vibrant and trendy place to dine is Marble restaurant in Johannesburg that carries an amazing selection of South African wines.

As a starter I love Kudu, which is similar to venison, with a slight gamey, yet meat-like flavor. It is a very dry and lean.

If you are a meat lover, you will have love South Africa. I honestly had the best steaks here.

Something you should not miss in South Africa. Definitely a classic to end a meal is having a Dom Pedro, which is something halfway between a dessert and a cocktail, like a grown-up version of a milkshake. The blended ice cream laced with alcohol is rich and creamy but lighter than a traditional dessert. It is totally my thing!

I had a great time in Johannesburg and can absolutely recommend a trip here. It is very close to the capital Pretoria and you can also go easily on a safari from the city. Visit for example Pilanesberg Game Reserve on a full-day safari, where over 7000 animals roam freely.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Art or not?! This questions touches on the debate wether fashion is considered art and if it should be collected the same way art is. I have seen fashion as art all my life and have been collecting for over 30 years. Today, it shows that I was right. High-fashion items have appreciated in value over time, much like art, making them valuable collectibles, . If you visit the Sotheby’s Salon at Bucherer, you will find many treasures that are hard to get and that have increased in value. It is a shopping haven for all fashion lovers and collectors!

My look: Oversized double-breasted two-tone wool-blend crepe blazer, matching pleated wool-blend crepe shorts, and studded Tan-Go platform pumps, all by Valentino, lingerie shirt by Schiaparelli, Faubourg Birkin 20 in So Black matte alligator with black hardware by Hermès, and yellow diamonds pear shape earrings (25.31 carat fancy deep yellow, VS1, 25.33 carat fancy brownish Yellow, VVS1, 4.8 carat white diamonds, H-I, with GIA certificates), available at The Sotheby’s Salon.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Sanjeev Velmurugan
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Tracing equestrian motifs on a sparkling white or intense black dial, rose gold and diamonds intertwine on the Arceau Grand Tralala brides et mors watch.

This precious 34 mm-diameter case reinterprets the design of the Grand Tralala silk scarf designed by French artist Virginie Jamin. A tribute to the Hermès equestrian tradition, the colourful bridles/ and gleaming bits evoke the prestigious harnesses worn by the Royal Hungarian Bodyguard in the 19th century.

Created by Henri d’Origny in 1978, the Arceau watch embodies the Hermès style: its understated and timeless round shape set on a «stirrup» highlights a singular nature composed of subtle details. Dotted with 64 diamonds and topped by a gemset crown, its rose gold case frames a spangled white lacquered or deep black dial.

On the dial of the Arceau Grand Tralala, bridles and bits intertwine in the brilliance of rose gold and 110 diamonds, forming a graphic yet dainty decoration. Enlivened by a small bit-shaped seconds hand, the model is driven by a Manufacture Hermès H1912 movement revealed through the sapphire crystal case-back. Crafted in the Hermès Horloger workshops, a smooth chantilly or black alligator strap matches the dial colour.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hermès
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The Slim d’Hermès Pocket Mysterious Rider watch marries the pristine white gold of its case with the delicate shimmer of its enamelled dial and cover to create an elegant blend of rigorous discipline, understatement and visual balance. Its timeless lines designed by Philippe Delhotal in 2015 lend themselves to every expression of Hermès skills. Its slender curves highlight both bold, whimsical and minimalist motifs. The Slim d’Hermès Pocket Mysterious Rider watch airily reflects the playful imaginary world and the singular nature of Hermès time.

Crafted in a 3-piece limited edition, this pocket watch reinterprets the Mysterious Rider silk scarf motif created by illustrator and designer Viktor Hachmang. A finalist in the Grand Prix du Carré Hermès, the Dutch artist marries colourful, futuristic graphics with refined Japanese art and comic-book pop culture. His bright hues and geometric patterns bring to life the mysterious rider on a gleaming motorbike. In the background is a shop front reminiscent of the legendary and historic 24 Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris.

The cover featuring the biker and his roaring motorcycle is crafted in champlevé enamel. This demanding technique involves carving tiny cells in the metal, filling them with coloured glass powders mixed with natural oils, then firing them several times in a kiln at over 800°C to fix the pigments in place. This brilliantly colourful work of fine workmanship frames a refined white enamel dial. To craft the latter, the enamelling artisan applies a multitude of enamel layers that are successively dried and fired before being adorned with hand-painted red numerals and hour-markers. Beating at the heart of the Slim d’Hermès Pocket Mysterious Rider is the Manufacture Hermès H1950 ultra-thin mechanical self-winding movement. A strap and pouch in matt Rouge H alligator leather, crafted in accordance with the Hermès saddlery and leather goods expertise, accentuate the overall crimson nuances of this creation.

I personally speaking have a thing for pocket watches … and this one is divine!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hermès
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Balenciaga opens a new 367-square meter store in Zurich, its first Swiss flagship. The space, located in the historic Schweizerische Volksbank building, offers the latest in Balenciaga’s men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, shoe, bag, accessory, eyewear, and jewelry collections, plus exclusives.

BALENCIAGA
Bahnhofstrasse 53
8001 Zurich / Switzerland
Phone: +41447973180

Opening Hours:
Monday: 10:00 – 19:00
Tuesday: 10:00 – 19:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 19:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 19:00
Friday: 10:00 – 19:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 18:00
Sunday: Closed

You can book an appointment here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Balenciaga
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.