GUCCI Horsebit 1953 Loafer

Gucci proudly commemorates the 70th anniversary of the Horsebit 1953 loafer, an enduring emblem of the House’s heritage and savoir-faire, with a new campaign starring actor and Ambassador Paul Mescal and Global Brand Ambassador Xiao Zhan.

Gucci Catalog in 1968

Introduced in 1953, the Gucci Horsebit 1953 loafer revolutionized the world of footwear, blending sophistication with comfort. Its distinctive design, featuring a miniaturized horse bit—a double ring connected by a bar—soon became a hallmark element of the House effortlessly bridging the gap between the heritage of the past and contemporary fashion. Over the decades, the Gucci loafer has evolved into an essential part of the wardrobe thanks to its ability to seamlessly blend Italian craftsmanship, the American outdoor lifestyle, and the classic British equestrian aesthetic.

Ad Campaign in 1990

The legendary Horsebit 1953 loafer encapsulates Gucci’s rich history, with its enduring appeal that transcends generations, it serves as an example of Italian design excellence and elegance.

The new campaign showcases the timeless yet contemporary allure of this style, as both Paul Mescal and Xiao Zhan are captured at ease wearing the original design from 1953. Their portraits elegantly demonstrate how the heritage hardware and silhouette continue to inspire and captivate generation after generation.

Below you can enjoy some making of photos.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Gucci – Creative Director: Sabato De Sarno – Art Director: Riccardo Zanola – Photographer & Director: Heji Shin DoP: Karol Jurga – Styling: Felicity Kay – Grooming: Josh Knight – Set Design: Danny Hyland DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise!

LOEWE x On Cloudtilt

When I first heard at the beginning of last year that LOEWE and Swiss brand On were working on a trainer together. I thought, just another collab, However, what nobody really expected though, was just how popular this collection would become. And now, after two projects together, the duo are reuniting once again for the LOEWE x On Cloudtilt.

Blending craft and technology to provide ultimate all-day comfort, this sneaker is about as luxe as a running shoe can get, made to move, featuring sequentially collapsing clouds that adapt to the wearer’s movement.

You will be walking on air. The Cloudtilt is precision-crafted to provide superior cushioning, featuring computer-generated midsole technology that offers a smooth, ultra-lightweight ride. Available in All White, All Black, and Lime Green with additional shades of Khaki Green and Forever Blue for men, and Purple Rose and All Navy for women.

TO SHOP THE LOEWE x ON CLOUDTILT, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

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

Celebrating Manolo Blahnik and Net-à-Porter

This week, I was invited to a great cocktail evening with my Net-à-Porter family to celebrate the launch of Manolo Blahnik’s Virtual Archives: The Craft. It was amazing to dive into this multi-sensory VR experience where I could discover the extraordinary craftsmanship of Manolo Blahnik. Celebrating artisans and artistry, the evening invited us to explore the latest feature of the virtual experience dedicated to exploring the mastery behind the men’s and women’s collections. The award-winning virtual archives examine the process from design through to techniques and construction, offering an insight into the craft of shoemaking.

From Manolo’s desk to the factory floor, take a journey into the wonderful world of shoes in this virtual experience. Book a slot for the London xydrobe experience here.

On display were also the newest collections and many of the beautiful sketches Manolo Blahnik is famous for.

TO SHOP MANOLO BLAHNIK x NET-À-PORTER, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

With my lovely hosts of the night: Elodie Bougenault, Chief Commercial Officer at Manolo Blahnik, and Vikki Kavanagh, Managing Director at NET-A-PORTER and Mr Porter.

Annabel Skamen and me love the Hangisi 105 embellished satin pumps.

Marilyn Monroe only wore CHANEL N°5 in bed, I only wear my Manolos … good night!

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

Valentino New Rockstud Ballerinas

As part of Valentino’s Pre-fall 2023 collection, the French house spotlights its signature Rockstud accessories in the new «I mean…it’s Rockstud!» campaign featuring a pair of must-have Rockstud ballerinas that I don ‘t want you to miss and that might have already spotted in yesterday’s outfit post.

These flats come with the statement studs lining the exterior, balancing style and wearability while being ultra stylish. Available in different colourways and an alternative model with a strap running up the mid-calf, which I also couldn’t resist, the design highlights Valentino’s seamless ability to inject classic items with a bold twist.

This is your chance to chime in nicely with the current balletcore trend.
TO SHOP THE NEW VALENTINO ROCKSTUD BALLERINAS, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and Courtesy of Valentino
DISCLOSURE: We may also earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

The Craziest Shoes of the Season

Here they are the craziest shoes of the season. An art gallery’s worth of the weird, wacky and wonderful walked onto the runway for S/S 2023. Moschino’s pumps resembled miniature blow-up flamingo pool floats, one of Loewe’s sandals was entirely made of a huge 3-D petal and JW Anderson joined forces with Wellipets for some whimsical frog aesthetic. Heels, in particular, had a surreal feel, most notably seen in Alaïa‘s cabaret version and Sophia Webster‘s flamingo heels.

LoL, Sandra

Frog round toe clogs by JW Anderson x Wellipets

White coin purse heels by Pushbutton

Cabaret sandals by Alaïa

Flamingo-heel sandals by Sophia Webster
icon

Flamingo-detail 100mm pumps by Moschino

Floral detail high-heel sandals by Dolce & Gabbana

Petal 90 leather sandals by Loewe


Froufrou Alta 150 satin sandals by Christian Louboutin

iconPhotos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Courtesy of the Brands
We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

It Takes Two to Tan-Go

It takes two to tango – and shoes should never come alone. VALENTINO‘s iconic Tan-Go shoe has been on every fashionista’s wishlist lately. First launched in 2012 as a more modest version, the new take as skyrocketing platforms are now available in many versatile options, not only super stylish, but also ultra comfortable to dance the nights away.

My collection has become pretty extensive … it takes two to tango, or probably three, four, five …

LoL, Sandra

The classic one: Tan-Go patent leather platform pumps

The lower heel: Tan-Go platform pumps

The pointy one: Tan-Go patent leather platform pump 165mm

The open toe: Tan-Go 155 patent-leather platform sandalsicon

The bootie: Tan-Go leather ankle boots

The embellished version: Tan-Go embellished leather platform pumps

All clear: Tan-Go transparent pumps

The ultra high one: Discobox 180mm platform pumps

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Nadia KrawieckaDavid Biedert Photography
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

Flamencaba

After the mystical CARACABA and last year’s ever-whimsical GREEKABA, get ready to say ¡Hola! to Christian Louboutin’s annual limited-edition cabas offering, the FLAMENCABA: a fiery celebration of all the creativity, charisma and exquisite craftsmanship that Andalusia has to offer, developed in collaboration with the inimitable Rossy de Palma, actress and long-time friend of Christian’s.

It was inspired by the region’s rich culture and flamenco tradition, and it features men’s and women’s shoes, fans, and bags. The key pieces include the FLAMENCABA small toteicon that highlights the savoir-faire of local craftsmen with ornate detailing inspired by Flamenco dresses. On the base of the handles, CARASPIKES become gold-toned SEVILLANA spikes, inspired by Seville’s architectural heritage and bringing an added touch of opulence to this everyday tote bag.

Another highlight is the FLAMENCABA mini bagicon, that was inspired by the iconic shawls worn by Andalusian bailaoras.

Christian Louboutin will donate part of the profits from the capsule collection to Centro Coreografico Maria Page, an organization that aims to promote dance and Spain’s cultural heritage as a model of social and civic commitment for the benefit of children, adolescents, genders and vulnerable groups.

Launching in May 2023, this year’s Flamencaba collection continues in the footsteps of the annual cabas series with a true ode to craftsmanship.

LoL, Sandra

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

Alaïa’s Cabaret Sandals

Sometimes, a fabulous pair of heels deserve its own post. This kind of footwear has the power to elevate a simple outfit into something conversation-worthy. Inspired by Parisian cabaret dancers, Alaïa’s sandals are crafted from patent-leather in a barely-there design. The drama is revealed when you’re sitting cross-legged or walking up stairs – all eyes will be on the cheeky gold figurines that form the heel. I am completely obsessed.

TO SHOP THE ALAÏA CABARET SANDALS, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Alaïa / Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise!

AREA x Sergio Rossi

My avid readers know that I am huge AREA fan. Beckett Fogg and Piotrek Panszczyk launched their brand in 2014 as design students at Parsons after bonding over a mutual love of ’80s glamour and feminine silhouettes. Named after the pioneering New York nightclub of the same name, the label’s irreverent designs and high-octane embellishments have garnered a diverse fanbase that includes Kendall Jenner and Michelle Obama.

Now, they introduce their hotly-anticipated footwear designs in collaboration with Sergio Rossi, which means Italian essence meets New York glamour. Being packed with Y2K tropes, the new AREA x Sergio Rossi capsule collection rewrites the rules and offers a unique take on femininity: more liberated, daring and inclusive than ever before.

The campaign was captured by fashion photographer Collier Schorr, with creative direction by Piotrek Panszczyk, set design by Robert Sumrell, production by High Snobiety and casting by Dan von der Graf and Andrea Prato.

My favorites are the ‘Shibari‘ sandals, a gladiator style that climb up the leg, set on spindly stiletto heels and dusted with sparkling crystals.

TO SHOP THE AREA x SERGIO ROSSI COLLECTION, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Area, Sergio Rossi, Net-à-Porter – The campaign was captured by fashion photographer Collier Schorr, with creative direction by Piotrek Panszczyk, set design by Robert Sumrell, production by High Snobiety and casting by Dan von der Graf and Andrea Prato.
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise!

Merging Fashion and Culture

HENNESSY X.O UNVEILS MASTERPIECE COLLABORATION WITH KIM JONES

In a first for the Maison, the acclaimed fashion designer transcends couture and cognac in a special collection featuring a collectible sneaker, Masterpiece decanter, and Limited Edition bottle.

Hennessy is pleased to announce a collaboration with the world-renowned British Artistic Director Kim Jones. In an audacious meeting of two icons, the Hennessy X.O x Kim Jones collection bridges street and luxury in a unique celebration of the legendary blend’s impact on culture. Interweaving the richness of Hennessy X.O’s 150-year heritage with Kim Jones’ creative vision, the collaboration features the Hennessy X.O Masterpiece designed by Kim Jones, the Hennessy X.O Limited Edition bottle by Kim Jones, and in a first for the brand, the HNY Low by Kim Jones. This also marks the first time Maison Hennessy has partnered with a fashion designer, and that Kim Jones collaborates with a spirits brand.

HNY Low by Kim Jones

«We are thrilled to embark on a new odyssey blending cognac-making and couture with Kim Jones, a creative master of our time,» said Laurent Boillot, Hennessy CEO. «Inspired by the emblematic personality of Hennessy X.O, Kim has developed a resolutely contemporary collection that is destined to make an impact on culture today and in the future.»

For Hennessy X.O, Kim Jones pays tribute to cognac-making and couture, two processes that touch on an understanding of science and the natural world as well as artisanal craftsmanship and savoir-faire. He follows in the footsteps of a formidable lineage of great masters who have helped cement Hennessy X.O’s cultural resonance over the years, including Frank Gehry, Cai Guo-Qiang and Ridley Scott.

«I’m fascinated by the rich heritage of Hennessy, a household name behind which artisans have spent hundreds of years creating this special cognac,» says Kim Jones. «Storytelling is very important for me regardless of what I’m designing or who I’m collaborating with – I want my designs to educate and inspire people through the stories they tell.»

WHERE COGNAC MEETS COUTURE: THE HENNESSY X.O MASTERPIECE AND HENNESSY X.O
LIMITED EDITION DESIGNED BY KIM JONES

Designed exclusively for Hennessy by Kim Jones, produced using 3D printing technology, and finished by hand, the sculptural Hennessy X.O Masterpiece has been produced in a limited edition of just 200 examples. The decanter demonstrates how humanity and technology can work together to create something unique, «like a piece of bespoke couture for a bottle,» the designer notes.

The Hennessy X.O Masterpiece

The Hennessy X.O Masterpiece draws inspiration from the making of Hennessy X.O, an art perfected by eight generations of Master Blenders. A specially developed titanium casing entirely encapsulates the bottle like an architectural second skin. Its twisting folds evoke both the couture technique of draping and the way in which, at the turn of the 20th century, Hennessy bottles were carefully hand-enveloped in tissue paper as a way of protecting their fragile parchment paper labels. Its base, an undulating oak plateau, nods to the barrels used to age eaux-de-vie that would eventually be blended to create Hennessy X.O.

While the bottle is entirely obscured from view, the cognac can be extracted using the fusil designed by Kim Jones, an elegant and playful ritual to serve a glass of the Hennessy X.O blend. As a finishing touch, the decanter itself has been dipped in gradient colors, an effect inspired by the shades of the different eaux-de-vie selected by the Master Blender to compose Hennessy X.O.

Says Kim Jones: «When I saw how the vintage Hennessy bottles were wrapped, it spoke volumes to me about how precious each one is, and how they were handled. I was particularly touched by their history, and the sense of how generations have dedicated their time to making each step of the process better and better. That same process also holds true with fashion

The Hennessy X.O Limited Edition

The third element of the collaboration is the Hennessy X.O Limited Edition ‘ready-to-wear’ version of the decanter specially imagined by Kim Jones. The Hennessy X.O bottle is encased in an aluminum second skin, its structure showcasing the signature shape of the bottle while evoking a couture silhouette. A true representation of the merger of fashion and culture with excellence and legacy, the limited edition bottle is the final piece of the Hennessy X.O x Kim Jones partnership.

The Hennessy X.O Limited Edition by Kim Jones is available exclusively at Globus for CHF 241.50 now.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Hennessy
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise! DRINK RESPONSIBLY!