Nino Cerruti Dies at 91

Fashion designer Nino Cerruti died on Saturday, Jan 15th, 2022 at age 91.

Cerruti, who was born on September 25th, 1930 in Biella, one of Italy’s main textile hubs, was a key figure in the international fashion industry, well-respected and known for his elegance, kindness and polite ways.

«For the family, collaborators, friends and management of Lanificio Cerruti and for Italian fashion today is a sad day because with the death of Mr. Nino the world looses a man of talent, an extraordinary designer, a visionary ahead of his time and a great mentor to whom many are indebted,» said Lanificio Fratelli Cerruti in a statement.

Cerruti came from a family of textile industrialists, and inherited the company at the age of 20 upon his father’s death. He discontinued his studies in philosophy and journalism to immediately rediscover himself as suited to the style and fashion business at the highest level. Following the family tradition, investing heavily over the years in the research and development of materials, he added attention to design to taste and sensibility and his highly personal insights. In short, to be exact since 1957, he has achieved worldwide attention with the presentation of the company’s first apparel line, Hitman, in Milan. In 1962, together with Osvaldo Testa, he founded the brand «Flying Cross», the first «Designer Line» which was added to the Hitman line. In 1967, he opened the first Cerruti 1881 boutique at Place de la Madeleine in Paris. In the mid-1960s, in Lanificio Fratelli Cerruti, he collaborated with new emerging names in Italian fashion, taking on as «rookies» designers of the calibre of Giorgio Armani (who worked with Cerruti until 1970).

«It is with great sadness that I learn of Nino Cerruti’s death,» said Armani to WWD. «Although over the years we had seen less of each other, I have always considered him one of the people who have had a real and positive influence on my life. From him I learned not only the taste for a sartorial softness, but also the importance of an all-around vision, as a designer and an entrepreneur. Mr. Nino was a keen observer, he had a real curiosity and the ability to dare. His gentle way of being authoritative and also authoritarian will be missed.»

In the 1970s, he created the first deconstructed jacket. He established licensing agreements in Japan and the US in order to increase the international visibility of the brand and to maintain competitive prices in most markets, proving more and more, as well as his artistic skills, his strong entrepreneurial vocation to the global market. In these years, the fashion line for women also came into being, which 20 years later would represent 20% of total company revenues. In 1975, Hitman began production and distribution of knitwear, shirts and the casual line: Cerruti 1881 Brothers.

Nino Cerruti with Hubert de Givenchy

At the end of the 1970s, he also launched the first men’s fragrance linked to the brand, named «Nino Cerruti», followed by other intuitions and innovations: in the 1980s the sportswear line, famous for clothing dedicated to tennis and skiing. In short also sponsoring world-class athletes such as the American tennis player Jimmy Connors and the Swedish skier Ingemar Stenmark.

In the 1980s, Cerruti began a collaboration with the world of movies. From «Bonnie and Clyde» and «Pretty Woman» to «Basic Instinct,» the brand Cerruti designed clothes for actors such as Michael Douglas, Jack Nicholson, Tom Hanks, Bruce Willis, Sharon Stone, Julia Roberts, Robert Redford, Harrison Ford, Al Pacino or Jean Paul Belmondo.

Nino Cerruti and Kathleen Turner

The popularity of the brand increased further in 1994 when it was appointed official designer of Formula 1 team Ferrari. In the early 1990s, two new fragrances were launched: «Cerruti 1881 Pour Homme» and «Cerruti 1881 Pour Femme», both produced and distributed by Elizabeth Arden. Also, flagship stores in China, Hong Kong, Thailand and Indonesia were opened. In 1995, the production of the women’s line «Cerruti Art» began, which can be found in the segment «Top Designer».

Cerruti even had cameo roles in the 1996 films «Catwalk» and «Cannes Man,» and in the 1998 movie «Holy Man

In 1998 at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the new men’s fragrance «Cerruti Image» was presented. In the same year, the Cerruti store on Madison Avenue in New York was opened. In 2000, Cerruti opened a flagship store in Hong Kong. In the same year, he launched the women’s version of the perfume «Cerruti Image». In 2000, Nino Cerruti was appointed Cavaliere del Lavoro by the President of the Republic of Italy. In 2001, «Cerruti Holding» sold the brand «Cerruti 1881» to focus on Lanificio Fratelli Cerruti.

Among the awards received as evidence of a career that has given so much to the style and fashion, not just in Italy but worldwide: the Bath Museum of Costume Dress of the Year Award, England, 1978; the Munich Fashion Week Award, 1981; the Cutty Sark Award in 1982, 1988 and Pitti Uomo Award, Italy, 1986.

We say goodbye to a great man who was an icon of Italian fashion.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Lanificio Fratelli Cerruti

Giorgio Armani My Way

This fall, Giorgio Armani unveiled MY WAY, a fragrance – created by perfumer Carlos Benaim – that encapsulates a new vision of femininity that is both profound and free-spirited, designed with a commitment to sustainability. I was curious what was behind this marketing concept.

Building an eco-conception mind-set and a continuous reduction of environmental impact, the launch of the new fragrance marked the beginning of a new commitment for Giorgio Armani: fighting against climate change and the erosion of biodiversity.

«I believe that environmental issues should be close to everyone’s heart, now more than ever. There is no way we can ignore the fact that the future of the younger generations depends on our choices. I believe that enriching experiences, capable of creating real progress, come to be through exchanges between cultures.» – Giorgio Armani

Top NotesBergamot, Egyptian orange blossom
Heart NotesTuberose, Indian jasmine
Base notesVirginia cedarwood, Madagascan vanilla, White musk

The ingredients of the feminine fragrance are consciously sourced through local programs based on fair trade principles, in collaboration with local NGOs.

The flacon is refillable and recyclable. The blue and gold cap is a metaphor of the world, a talisman that encapsulates all encounters that matter. Each format of MY WAY – 30, 50 or 90 ml – is designed to be unscrewed and refilled at home with the same 150ml refill bottle, which is sold in a cellophane-free box.

MY WAY is an invitation to broaden your horizons and open up to new encounters, while keeping the spirit of curiosity that is so important. Actress Adria Arjona is the face of the campaign and genuinely embodies this philosophy, with her free-spirited, open personality.

Personally speaking, I truly like the new MY WAY fragrance and its philosophy. It’s a modern floral scent. Its notes are very well balanced and long-lasting.

TO SHOP GIORGIO AMANI MY WAY, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Giorgio Armani and © David Biedert Photography
DISCLOSURE
: This post is not sponsored. I only received the scent as a sample.
#ArmaniBeauty #ArmaniMyWay #IAmWhatILive

My Look: My Way

Let’s all celebrate a «Feel Good Fashion Friday». All our experiences define who we are, right now we live through challenging times, let’s make the best out of it and feel good about it. I like to do things my way. For me, that is the beauty of getting older, you have discovered who you are and follow your own path. Fashion always gives me comfort and happiness, no matter what. I love to dress up, even at home. Why not spend a day in bed looking fabulous in silk and feathers. Add a beautiful fragrance which can be one of the most memorable experiences. I like to link moments in time to scents. Right now I am what I live, and that’s MY WAY.

My look: Feather-trimmed printed silk-twill shirticon, and matching printed silk-twill wide-leg pantsicon, both by Valentino, Cabaraparis small leather-trimmed embellished printed neoprene toteicon, and Hot Chick Paris pumps, both by Christian Louboutin, rose diamond ring and rose diamond earrings, both by Piaget.
My fragrance: MY WAY by Giorgio Armani (more coming up tomorrow, stay tuned).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © David Biedert Photography
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise. #FeelGoodFashionFriday @netaporter #ArmaniBeauty #ArmaniMyWay #IAmWhatILive #ValentinoBluegrace #ValentinoFall2020

Mid-Season Sale at Matchesfashion

Happy Thursday everyone! Great news MATCHESFASHION launched a mid-season sale
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with up to 30% off select women’s and men’s products. Use the code MID30 at checkout!
This sale will run through 27th of April, 2020.

Below are some of my favorite pieces for women and men that will last for many seasons to come. Don’t miss this opportunity and gentlemen, to see your must-haves, scroll down please to the end of this post.

LoL, Sandra

MY FAVORITE MID-SEASON SALE PIECES FOR WOMEN:

Elsa crystal chain-strap leather sandalsicon by Alexandre Vauthier
Chain embellishments around the ankle are all the rage this summer season.

Soleil nubuck and raffia bag by Jacquemus
A stylish straw bag at the beach will make heads turn.

Stone-embellished heart and arrow brooch by Etro
Brooches are the must-have accessory for the S/S 2020 season!

Peak-lapel grain-de-poudre jacket by Peter Pilotto
Nothing beats a classy summer blazer during a cool summer breeze.
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Off-the-shoulder ruffled silk-chiffon dress by Dundas
Browse the clothing section to find your ultimate airy summer dream dress.


iconXike belted leather shorts by Isabel Marant
A pair of colorful leather shorts is a great addition to your wardrobe as you can wear it all year long.
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MY FAVORITE MID-SEASON SALE PIECES FOR MEN:

Technical-mesh bomber jacket by Giorgio Armani
You cannot go wrong with this timeless piece.

Artist stripe-cuff striped cotton shirt by Paul Smith
A classy striped designer shirt on sale. You can thank me later!
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Santos de Cartier aviator metal sunglasses by Cartier
This is what I would call a pair of statement sunglasses.

Photo: © Sandra Bauknecht – Stills: Courtesy of the Brands
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.
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Sandra’s Closet During the Coronavirus

Yesterday, Anna Wintour, who helms the chairmanship at the Costume Institute since the ‘90s, announced via Vogue that the Met Gala 2020 will officially be postponed in light of the coronavirus outbreak. News of the postponement comes after the Met’s decision to close its doors until April 4.

Understandably, as everywhere in the world life is slowing down, taking a step back to fight together against this terrible virus. I am living in Switzerland that closed more businesses yesterday to slow the spread of the coronavirus but stopped short of ordering the country’s 8.6 million citizens to stay home. Under the new rules, restaurants, museums, cinemas, hair salons, and all nonessential commerce had to shut down at midnight until at least April 19. Borders with France, Austria, and Germany are tightened. The move comes just days after the Federal Council reintroduced border controls with Italy, closed schools, and banned gatherings of more than 100 people. As of Monday, Switzerland had 1,680 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 14 of them fatal. The country is only testing those severely stricken by the disease.

Yesterday at CHANEL – empty shelves in preparation for the lockdown.

Yesterday evening, I was the «last customer standing» at CHANEL. I had to pick up something before the store officially closed for many weeks. It was quite scary, seeing the shelves emptied and saying good-bye to everyone not knowing when we well be seeing each other again.

Personally speaking, I am really scared of the economic impact this health crisis will have. This is a particularly challenging time for many of the business, especially the small ones, regardless of their location, as the economic fallout from this situation will likely impact their business in some way. My industry is absolutely affected, the stock market experienced sharp declines, demonstrating the impact of the virus on consumer industries. While the impact on fields including travel, entertainment and technology are widely known, lifestyle industries – including fashion and beauty – have been affected as well. Most companies, especially the huge beauty conglomerates, depend on the Asian market with a strong focus on China as well as travel retail, two strong pillars that have just disappeared. Event cancelations and affected sales due to the closure of many stores also impact the industry tremendously.

Looking to a resolution for the global health crisis, Giorgio Armani has donated 1.25 million euros to hospitals and institutions in Italy. Versace made a contribution of about 144 thousand dollars to the Chinese Red Cross FoundationLVMH announced on Sunday that it will use its perfume production lines to start making hand sanitizer that will be delivered free of charge to health authorities to protect people against the coronavirus outbreak.

Good news is that online sales are booming and as long as DHL and all the other shipping companies are allowed to deliver to our doorstep, we can still keep up with the fashion trends.

What is going to happen at Sandra’s Closet during the next weeks? I have to admit I am happy as a bug, for the first time I can enjoy being at home, working 24/7 on things and stories I haven’t had the time to write about due to my busy schedule. No travel plans, no FOMO (fear of missing out) as everybody is doing the same. I am not missing anything. Furthermore, I will relax, read a book, exercise and spend time with my daughter with whom I have finally the time to shoot a lot of outfit posts with no rush in between appointments.

Stay tuned, I will entertain you daily and hopefully make you dream of what we will be wearing when we get out of our exile. My dear fashion enthusiasts, enjoy your daily glimpse of fashion and beauty on Sandra’s Closet while staying home and healthy. And please laugh daily… that is the best remedy of all.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © David Biedert Photography – © Sandra Bauknecht

Most Important S/S 2018 Accessories Trends

After this weekend’s summary about the 15 most important runway trends for S/S 2018, I thought you might enjoy a look also at the must-have accessories for next summer. The forecast: Get ready for your another sumptuous season! Many things are here to stay or will even take it up a notch. Sneakers are trendier than ever and have taken center stage. The ugly shoe phenomenom explores new heights as seen at Balenciaga‘s collaboration with Crocs. And we can deny it no longer: the fanny pack is here to stay. Earrings and straw hats are bigger than ever and bags are most beautiful in an array of patterns.

LoL, Sandra

S/S 2018 TREND 1: FANNY BAG
Givenchy – Balenciaga – Marc Jacobs

S/S 2018 TREND 2: STATEMENT STRAW HAT
Missoni – Giorgio Armani – Jacquemus

S/S 2018 TREND 3: CLEAR VISION
Tibi – Chanel – Valentino

S/S 2018 TREND 4: SURREALISTIC SUNGLASSES
Dolce & Gabbana – Prada – Gucci

S/S 2018 TREND 5: SNEAKERS RELOADED
Loewe – Louis Vuitton – Céline

S/S 2018 TREND 6: THE UGLY SHOE
Balenciaga – Christopher Kane – Miu Miu

S/S 2018 TREND 7: GLOVES
Olivier Theyskens – Calvin Klein 205W39NYC – Erdem

S/S 2018 TREND 8: BIG EARRINGS
Saint Laurent – Stella McCartney – Isabel Marant

S/S 2018 TREND 9: PATTERNED BAGS
Dior – Chloé – Prada

S/S 2018 TREND 10: SUMMER OVERKNEE BOOTS
Fendi – Balenciaga – Versace

Photos: Via Vogue.com

Him/Her Lipcare by Giorgio Armany Beauty

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Every thought of sharing your lip balm with your boyfriend? Now, it is the time! Giorgio Armani launches HIM/HER LIPCARE, a moisturizing and nourishing lip balm that is sure to appeal to women and men alike with a “My lips but better” result.

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Available in several shades, it slips into a pocket or a bag for easy travel and can be applied in one quick and easy stroke anywhere, at any time. While the result is always natural, it can be custom-applied for an added touch of seduction.

Giorgio-Armani-Him-Her-Lip-Care-Swatches

The range comes in six soft and natural shades, including the N°1 clear.
Shades N°2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 blend with the natural colour of the lips to suit individual skin tones.

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Men can thus choose a shade to match their skin tone for a natural effect, or opt for a neutral balm like the N°1 clear.

Both men and women will appreciate its nourishing and restorative action when applied in several coats as a night treatment. Available now for CHF 45.00.

LoL, Sandra

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Photos: Courtesy of Giorgio Armani Beauty

Only Today: Harvey Nichols Shopping Party

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A little party never killed nobody... especially if it is a shopping party. HARVEY NICHOLS celebrates today our favorite hobby with a discount up to 25% on amazing F/W 2016 fashion pieces, accessories and beauty products, for both men and women.

Below are some of my favorites to wet your appetite:

givenchyGreat for the day with jeans and amazing at night with a pencil skirt:
Black cape-effect jersey blouse by Givenchy
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gianvito_rossi

Those heels will vamp every outfit!
Classic red suede pumps by Gianvito Rossi

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You cannot go wrong with these shades!
Dior So Real clubmaster-style sunglassesicon by Dior

duvetica

Practical and always needed…
Ociroe charcoal fur-trimmed shell coat iconby Duvetica

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Already a classic – on sale in black, grab it!
Falabella black faux suede shoulder bagicon by Stella McCartney

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Start looking for Christmas gifts early, especially when they are on sale…
Orientalist large scented candle by Tom Dixon

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FOR HIM! A little surprise for your hubby, boyfriend or crush…
Navy checked wool blazer by Giorgio Armani
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Happy Shopping Party!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands

Giorgio Armani Beauty Summer 2016

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Mascaras in vibrant colors are a huge trend this season. A new launch that will definitely be an eye-catcher is the upcoming summer 2016 collection by Giorgio Armani Beauty. Hitting the shelves internationally in June, the House introduces a new collection of Eye Tint Smoky Neutrals but also the new Eccentrico Mascara.

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Giorgio Armani Eccentrico Mascara – CHF 51.00
The newness in this mascara is the gel texture obtained by bonding the polymer and the soft wax so your lashes will get that extra volume. The tapered mascara bristles ensure uniform application and perfect separation.
No.1 Obsidian Black
No.2 Wood
No.3 Navy (Limited Edition)
No.4 Rouge Iron (Limited Edition, see picture above)

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Giorgio Armani Eye Tint Smoky Neutrals – CHF 52.00
Those new tints are bsolutely lovely and easy to apply.
No.19 Smoky Rock (New)
No.20 Smoky Wood (New)
No.21 Smoky Tan (New)
No.22 Smoky Spice (Limited Edition)
No.23 Smoky Sand (Limited Edition)
No.24 Smoky Nude (Limited Edition)

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Giorgio Armani Beauty

Armani/Privé Couture Edition Fil Rouge

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Armani/Privé transports the essence of fashion like a “fil rouge,” or red thread, into the House’s fragrance universe. Exclusive, precious and surprising, this limited edition is a feast for the senses.

Top notes: Bergamot and aldehyde
Middle notes: Iris and angelica essence
Base notes: White musk and grey amber accord

_ARC0833Giorgio Armani S/S 2016

Available in Switzerland from April 2016 at Giorgio Armani in Geneva, St. Moritz and Zurich as well as at Globus Geneva and Jelmoli Zurich for CHF 690.00 (100ml).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Armani