Sandra‘s Closet

From New York to London, Milan and Paris, in this post I round up the biggest moments of the new season. One of the most important trends is the revival of the 2000s. Keyword is «Y2K» which is the shorthand for «the year 2000.» Designers found new ways to interpret sex by freeing the nipple and creating interesting cut-outs.

Color is very important. After the months spent at home, the urge for fun and vibrant fashion is huge. Enjoy those beautiful collections and let’s hope that we will find peace this season.

LoL, Sandra

After the ’90s, the 2000s are back! Crop tops and butterflies, Grecian draping and low-rise pants, and body chains – all those things are epitome of Y2K style.

No other piece of garment has come up quite the winner like the bra top, be it a bikini top, a bandeau, or a humble bra, best combined with a pant suit.

XXS hemlines are a must this summer. The micro skirt steals the show from the traditional mini skirt.

This season, homespun crochet details were a present theme on the runways, playing up texture.

As the blazer is a standalone piece in its own right, it is worn directly on the skin, preferably with a cinched waist and exaggerated shoulders.

Buckle up, ladies! The biker jacket is back.

Nothing beats elegance and sex appeal like a black catsuit.

Here’s one for the minimalists: a shock of Colgate white, worn head-to-toe, preferably oversized.

Counterbalacing the neutral monochrome trend are head-to-toe looks in bold colors.

Sweet pastel colors appear this summer mostly on airy pieces for a second skin effect.

In 2022 there is not the slightest excuse for not wearing color. Optimistic color splashes elevate color blocking to new heights.

Graphic cut-outs paired with bold colors deliver the right amount of chic.

The new sexiness means super sheer and unleashing your nipples.

A beautiful interpretation of the ’60s era in pop colors.

Colorful marabou feathers are the best way to stay warm during chilly summer nights.

A hybrid trend mixing fringing and stripes for the fashion forward.

Back embellishments, trains, and swinging tails create maximum drama.

A new definition of evening glamour with dramatic, big-volume silhouettes and goth details.

Shine bright like a diamond. Sparkling textures and sheer sexiness are a must for evening wear this season.

Dress-code after the pandemic: Fabulous and shiny with sequins, chainmail, sparkling mesh, and crystals.

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands

A crystal ball heralds its arrival. Mysterious and fascinating, the magical globe is the gift the digital avatar of Alessandro Michele, Gucci’s Creative Director, offers Wagmi-san, world renowned digital artisan who has invited the designer – already on a journey towards new paradigms and forms of creativity – to his virtual shop in New Tokyo.

We cannot resist using the lexicon of fairy tales to describe ‘10KTF Gucci Grail’, the new initiative happening in Vault’s experimental space. In collaboration with digital accessory shop 10KTF, Gucci has created ad hoc digital outfits designed by Alessandro Michele and created by Wagmi-san to dress PFPs from eleven selected NFT collections including Bored Ape, World of Women, Cool Cats and many others. The «PFP» acronym stands for ‘Picture For Proof’, a NFT version of a profile photo, used by collectors both as their portrait and as extreme expressions of artistic and technological talent. The encounter between Wagmi-san and Alessandro Michele generates two custom Gucci looks, available in different colors, inspired respectively by the Aria and Love Parade collections, for those who aspire to express their individuality through fashion in the parallel digital worlds.

The House is already present in the realm of NFTs, the ‘Non-Fungible Tokens‘ that have transformed our experience of art, sublimating it into immaterial digital works. Acquiring personalised virtual garments also involves several steps, not unlike the actual process of securing a designer creation (which requires several fittings).

Over the past few days, the crystal ball has been accessible to three groups of people – those who already own a PFP; those who are members of the Gucci Vault community on the Discord server, and those who already ‘inhabit’ New Tokyo, where artisan Wagmi-san lives. Those who redeemed their crystal ball were able to choose between the different Gucci looks artfully tailored by Wagmi-san and receive their customized digital avatar.

With only a limited number of users involved, this project has the feel of a unique work: «10KTF Gucci Grail» not only highlights the individuality of each person, but it also unveils the huge, spectacular potential of virtual realities, enabling us to design a digital identity in an alternative world. To be dressed for the metaverse is to have another self that Vault allows us to generate through the codes of Gucci.

About 10KTF

Founded in September 2021, 10KTF is the leading shop known for producing bespoke digital accessories in the Metaverse. Located in New Tokyo, the shop is owned and operated by Wagmi-san, a renowned artisan who creates 1:1 digital collectibles for select parent NFT projects. 10KTF is a product of WENEW.

Follow @10ktfshop on Twitter for all of the latest happenings, or visit 10ktf.com to catch up on the full story.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: ©  Gucci / © 10KTF
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A Sardinian summer
Time slows on sunbathed shores. Waves wash over golden sands. As lazy days drift into breezy evenings, a Sardinian love story blossoms. Discover the new JO MALONE LONDON Blossoms collection with two limited edition scents encapsulating an Italian summer.

Inspired by a chance discovery along the coast, Sea Daffodil is a solar floral fragrance, radiant with ylang ylang and rooted in warm vanilla entwined with creamy sandalwood.

Bitter Mandarin captures the spirit of a Mediterranean summer evening: a carefree buzz in the air. Citrus trees line Italian streets and ice-filled glasses clink with a bitter citrus spritz. Vibrant mandarin is deepened with a warm amber note and a pinch of precious orris for an addictive zesty allure.

These scents are joined by Silk Blossom, returning in a cologne and diffuser to tempt the senses.

Completing the line-up is an Orange Blossom Hair Mist and a Nectarine Blossom & Honey Diffuser. The lightweight hair mist is formulated with natural argan oil and pro vitamin B5 to help give hair a healthy shine while the diffuser can be used to energise the air with a playful, fruity fragrance.

The collection includes
Sea Daffodil Cologne
Bitter Mandarin Cologne
Silk Blossom Cologne
Orange Blossom Hair Mist
Silk Blossom Diffuser
Nectarine Blossom & Honey Diffuser

Available online at jomalone.com and in Jo Malone London stores from March 2022.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Jo Malone London 
@JoMaloneLondon #JoMaloneLondon #BrilliantBlossoms
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Sometimes it takes a wild soul and a wild mix to create something vibrant and different. This look was very unexpected as I had forgotten some pieces at home for fashion week and just put those ones together which in the end worked out very well, don’t you agree?

The only bummer was that the wind was so strong that day that my hat was taken by it and blown over the dirty streets of Paris. But as you know me, with lots of patience and magic cleaning hands, I saved it and it looks almost new.

My look: Optical Valentino-jacquard lamé-jersey long cardigan, cropped crocheted cotton-blend wide-leg pants, fringed wool and cashmere-blend jacquard scarf, logo embellished rabbit-felt fedora, V-logo leather shoulder bag, and Tan-Go patent leather platform pumps, all by Valentino, necklace by Alessandra Rich, and metallic stretch-jersey bodysuit by Saint Laurent.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Nadia Krawiecka
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«My London patients are among the most discerning in the world when it comes to their skincare knowledge, forever searching for the latest innovations and ingredients to benefit their skin. I love London, and it has long felt like a second home to me. I am thrilled to be officially bringing the #SturmGlow to Mayfair and hope to excite my patients with new inventions, technologies and treatments that have never been seen before!» – Dr. Barbara Sturm

In London, I went to Dr. Barbara Sturm’s London flagship to enjoy one of her most sought-after treatments. The flagship London Spa & Boutique is located on Mayfair’s iconic Mount Street and set over two floors. It is designed in collaboration with architect Tobias Freytag, who also designed her LA and Dusseldorf spa locations. With each new location, Dr. Sturm aims to reflect the lifestyle of the customer she is serving and the culture that surrounds the store.

This will serve as a place of skincare discovery and advanced-scientific innovations where you can enjoy the full suite of Dr. Sturm’s most sought-after treatments.

The Spa & Boutique design exhibits minimalist, modern architectural elements, including a curved, mirrored wall, a sleek, white seating area, the original pave flooring, and a new ‘Discovery Table’ made from Italian green onyx. The Spa features two Express Facial Rooms, where shorter treatments are offered to time-conscious customers, as well as four, fully-fitted treatment rooms deploying Dr Sturm’s inventions and facial protocols and the latest in anti-aging skin technology, such as Myolift microcurrent.

A new, medically-advanced skincare collection only offered in-spa after personal consultation – will also be available at the London flagship. It will also be the first of Dr. Sturm’s Boutiques & Spas to offer exclusive body treatments – details of which will be announced soon.

When I arrived, a wonderful expert aesthetician guided me through to find the best products / treatment  to address my skin concerns. Personally speaking after one month of fashion weeks, I was aiming for that #SturmGlow. My skin was dry and dull and definitely needed some hydration and a glow boost. The famous Signature #SturmGlow Facial was created around Barbara’s skincare philosophy to deliver hydration, boost skin barrier function, soothe signs of irritation and improve the overall skin health and skin matrix. The facial incorporates techniques created in her German clinic for cleansing, exfoliating, extractions, and an anti-aging lymphatic massage. It was a truly amazing facial. My facial also include Dr. Sturm’s Signature Anti-Aging Massage; a unique combination of massage techniques which help increase blood and oxygen flow and tone and define the facial muscles for an instant, youthful-looking complexion.

Long and short-chain Hyaluronic Acid molecules in the so-called Hyaluronic Ampoule were infused into my skin and provided intensive hydration at both upper and deeper skin layers.

Catering to my personal needs, my facialist added red light therapy which is a fantastic treatment. The restorative power of safe, natural light LEDs also has a therapeutic effect on your body and mind. The use of natural light LEDs is non-invasive and painless, with clinically-documented benefits, including diminishing the appearance of age spots, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as making skin feel firmer and more elastic.

The Sturm Glow after my facial. No make-up!

The 90 min facial was amazing. It instantly smoothed fine lines, reduced puffiness, lifted and defined the cheekbones and jawline and gave my skin a youthful glow. At Dr. Barbara Sturm’s spa, the result of the appointment is a routine tailored specifically to your skincare needs. To book, please contact the Spa & Boutique.

OPENING TIMES
MONDAY – SATURDAY: 10AM-7PM
SUNDAY: 12PM-6PM

ADDRESS
125 MOUNT STREET
LONDON, W1K 3NS

CONTACT DETAILS

+44 207 959 0840

TO SHOP DR. BARBARA STURM, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Over the past fortnight, the blue and yellow of the Ukrainian flag has become a familiar sight of solidarity. By wearing this color combination to the Bold Woman Dinner with Veuve Clicquot, I wanted to send one straight and bold message: spread love not war. The world could be so beautiful if we learnt to live with each other in a peaceful way no matter our skin color or nationality.

I wish we had more female leaders – I am convinced, the world would be a better place.

My look: Blue puff-sleeve flared faille midi dress by Alexander McQueen, royal blue silk satin bow tie pumps by Aquazzura, necklace by Alessandra Rich, Constance 24 in Evercolor Lime with palladium hardware by Hermès, Maillon de Cartier 16mm 18-karat white gold diamond watch, and Clash de Cartier bracelet MM in white gold, both by Cartier, and vintage blue sapphire earrings by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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This week, BIRKENSTOCK and iconic shoe designer Manolo Blahnik announced an upcoming collaboration, showcasing their mastery of craftsmanship and creativity. Inspired by quality and function – the core ingredients of BIRKENSTOCK, Manolo Blahnik unites with the house, furnishing his characteristic embellishments and creative dynamic symbols for iconic BIRKENSTOCK styles.

Two years ago, Manolo Blahnik and his niece, company CEO Kristina Blahnik, were featured in the BIRKENSTOCK S/S 2020 campaign. Photographer Jack Davison lensed the pair in Manolo Blahnik’s first store on Old Church Street, London, wearing their own Birkenstocks. It marked the starting point of an even deeper collaboration—the end result of which is this unique collection.

Manolo and Kristina Blahnik photographed by Jack Davison for the Birkenstock S/S 2020 campaign.

«Birkenstocks have been in my wardrobe since the very beginning (of time!!) – I have loved and worn mine for many years. I am thrilled that we have been able to collaborate, fusing the Manolo Blahnik aesthetic with the everyday comfort of Birkenstocks is simply wonderful!» – Manolo Blahnik

«BIRKENSTOCK share both brand and core design values much like our own and it has been a joy to bring this to life in the new Manolo Blahnik for BIRKENSTOCK collection. Timeless, high-quality designs, crafted to be treasured and enjoyed is what we set out to create and I am delighted with the outcome. It is a privilege to cement our relationship further with BIRKENSTOCK through this collaboration, following the S/S 2020 Personality Campaign in which my uncle and I featured.» – Kristina Blahnik

The collection reinvents the BIRKENSTOCK style with its proudly glamorous detailing, featuring Manolo Blahnik’s trademark emphasis on all eye-catching details. The nonpareil flair for which Manolo Blahnik is renowned meets the premium craftsmanship of BIRKENSTOCK, creating a capsule at once radically modern and dynamic for both brands. Embellished with crystals and packaged in exclusive polka dot shoebox and dust bag following traditional Manolo Blahnik design, this richly coloured collection accommodates the best elements of both brands–for a remarkable, regal meeting of creative minds.

The first release of the collaboration is set to be unveiled at 1774.com, manoloblahnik.com, all Manolo Blahnik retail locations, as well as selected retailers worldwide from March 24th, 2022. The second release of styles will launch in June 2022.

Arizona crystal velvet in fuchsia and blue
Playful glamour meets everyday style, in Manolo Blahnik’s show-stopping spin on the Arizona sandal. This rich new visions line sublimely reinvents the Arizona with luxurious upper in velvet, microfiber lined French piping, and the inspired embellishment of Birkenstock’s buckle with crystals. Marrying chic and comfort, Manolo Blahnik for BIRKENSTOCK embraces a soulful spin on favourites. Paired with Birkenstock’s anatomically shaped footbed, this Arizona shows the true potential and everyday glamour that you deserve from your favourite pair.

Boston crystal velvet in fuchsia and blue
A super-star showcase of luxury design and versatile craft, the Boston Crystal Velvet reinvents a classic
for a whole new world of occasions. Inspired and designed by Manolo Blahnik, the premium buckle is
playfully embellished with crystals – marrying this new motif with an incredibly luxurious take on the
clog, including French piping in colour-matching smooth leather. Embrace this regal and remarkable new spin on a favourite shoe, in fuchsia and blue.

Arizona crystal smooth leather in black
The refinery of the iconic BIRKENSTOCK Arizona receives a sparkling twist, courtesy of Manolo Blahnik’s glamorous vision. With the anatomical shaped cork footbed in premium soft leather now accompanied by premium embellished crystals, the Manolo Blahnik for BIRKENSTOCK collaboration envisions a regal and remarkable twist.

Boston crystal smooth leather in Black
Step into a new vision of luxury, thanks to Manolo Blahnik’s dazzling take on the classic Boston clog. Luxurious smooth leather accompanies the crystals now adorning BIRKENSTOCK’s signature buckle–the spirit of craftsmanship that both brands celebrate is glamorously shown. A master of detailing, Manolo Blahnik is the perfect partner for Birkenstock’s unrivalled approach to craftsmanship and style.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Birkenstock / Manolo Blahnik
#manoloblahnikxbirkenstock
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Meet your new crush! Bobbi Brown has just released their new Crushed Creamy Color For Cheeks & Lips and I’ve got all the details!

Buildable, blendable, balmy two-in-one color for lips and cheeks. Dewy color layers effortlessly and evenly without any chance of overdoing it. The creamy moisture formula delivers a fresh, healthy look. Hands-on, mirror-free application lets you intensify, revive, or refresh your look anytime, anywhere.

Easy-to-apply, non-sticky formula with lip-plumping moisture. Dab on cheeks and lips for soft, dewy color. Layer for bolder color.

Creamy Coral – Pink Punch – Tulle – Latte
CHF 39.00 each

My new favorite shade: Parisian Red

There is more… our beloved Crushed Lip Color is available now in 5 new shades. The look of a lipstick meets the feel of a balm for Bobbi’s most wearable lip yet. Loaded with crushed pigments and lip-loving ingredients, it’s the ultimate swipe and go formula.

Sweet Coral – Parisian Red – Supernova – Berry Bright – Pink Passion
CHF 39.00 each

All available now.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Bobbi Brown and © Sandra Bauknecht
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Between Milan and Paris Fashion Week I was briefly in Zurich, not only to repack but also to attend a very special dinner. Maison Veuve Clicquot invited me to Aurora restaurant to elect the 2022 Bold Woman Awardees. Since 1985, Switzerland is part of the Bold journey, that started in 1972 when Veuve Clicquot launched the Veuve Clicquot Business Woman Award to celebrate its 200th anniversary. For 50 years, the House has awarded businesswomen who have built, taken on or developed a business. To date, 350 women in 27 countries have been honored. In Switzerland 18 bold businesswomen were already awarded and in 2022, there will be more.

Six finalists and two prices. First there is the Bold Women Award by Veuve Clicquot for which the candidate must be a woman who founded or has been CEO for more than three years of a company headquartered in Switzerland. The candidate must have made a significant contribution to the success of her company by instilling her sense of entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the environmental impact of the company plays an important role.

The finalists: Léa, Antonella and Sandra

The finalists for the Bold Women Award 2022 by Veuve Clicquot are:

Léa Miggiano – CARVOLUTION
Carvolution is a company offering car subscriptions.

Antonella Santuccione Chadha – WOMEN’S BRAIN PROJECT
Women’s Brain Project is a scientific organization addressing the influence of sex and gender on mental and brain diseases.

Sandra Tobler – FUTURAE TECHNOLOGIES
Future Technologies is an AI-based user-centric platform providing authentication and transaction confirmation.

The jury: Patrizia, Chantal, Stefan, Martina and Karina

The jury for this price consists of Karina Berger (Entrepreneur), David Degen (Soccer Star & Entrepreneur), Chantal Gaemperle (LVMH Group Executive Vice President Human Resources and Synergies), Martina Hingis (Tennis Champion), Patrizia Laeri (Economist & Business Journalist), Stefan Regez (Former Head of Consumer Magazines at Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz AG) and Madeleine von Holzen (Editor in Chief Le Temps).

The second price is the Bold Future Award by Veuve Clicquot for which the candidate must have founded or been CEO of a company that has been in existence for less than three years and is headquartered in Switzerland. The candidate must have made a significant contribution to the success of her company by instilling her sense of entrepreneurship and a significant innovation or contribution to the transformation of an existing market, as well have an focus on the environmental impact of the company.

The finalists: Carla, Fanny and Liliane

The finalists for the Bold Future Award 2022 by Veuve Clicquot are:

Liliane Ableitner – EXNATON
Exnaton is a software that enables the trading of solar power among neighbours and visualizes energy data in real time.

Carla Bünger – KORE TECHNOLOGIES
Kore Technologies is an IT company specialized in creating and managing blockchain certificates for digital assets (NFTs) and identities.

Fanny Queloz – ARTS & DESIGN MANUFACTURE
Arts & Design Manufacture offers exclusive artisanal creations in the realization of high-end watchmaking projects.

The jury: Bea, Barbara and Babette

The jury for this price consists of former Bold Women Award winners Olga Dubey (CEO & Co-Founder AgroSustain), Babette Keller Liechtli (Keller Trading & KT Home SA), Barbara Lax (CEO & Founder Little Green House) and Bea Petri (Entrepreneur). Bea won in 2012 and I went with her to Paris for a special event in 2013 to celebrate the trailblazing winners from 9 countries. For the previous post, click here please.

Both juries met the finalists for the first time and guests were able to get to know their entrepreneurial daring better. Each of the ladies presented herself, her company and entered a round of questions by the audience.

With the lovely Moët Hennessy Switzerland team, Sébastien Bergerat, Grégory Carrier and Christopher Siegenthaler.

Veuve Clicquot’s story is one of boldness, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. In 1805, Madame Clicquot took the reins of the House after the death of her husband, at a time when women could neither work nor hold a bank account.

Over the years, Madame Clicquot revolutionized the field. The riddling table to achieve crystal-clear champagne? That was her innovation. The first-recorded vintage champagne? That was hers, too. She was behind it. Madame Clicquot had to face numerous obstacles before she was ultimately respected and called la grand dame of Champagne. The name is only fitting: this bold woman had big dreams for her House to transcend borders: «I wish my brand to rank first in New York like in Saint Petersburg.» – Madame Clicquot, 1831.

With Swiss supermodel Manuela Frey

This tenacious spirit, this determination, this desire to always go further is what united bold women around us. Women who redefine success on their own terms and go beyond the status quo – just as Madame Clicquot did two centuries ago.

On September 1, 2022, the winners will be announced during a special ceremony at Aura in Zurich. Stay tuned for more…

LoL, Sandra

With tennis champion Martina Hingis.

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / ©Veuve Cliquot/ David Biedert Photography
@veuveclicquot #boldbyveuveclicquot #VeuveClicquotxWomen
DISCLOSURE: This is a paid collaboration. Drink responsibly!

Greetings from beautiful London and congratulations to all the designers on an amazing fashion month –  that took place in person again! I can’t believe how quickly time flies and how fast the world is turning and changing. For the past two years we were confronted with a pandemic, now we are facing a war. Personally speaking, it makes me even feel more grateful for my life and the wonderful travels and experiences I had in the past weeks. Therefore I would like to show you as many beautiful things as I can as a welcome distraction to all the bad news.

This outfit is all about mixing and matching logos with tweed. Something you will see a lot for the next winter season. So better to get started on time… However, the highlight of the look are the recognizable Knife boots that are reimagined in Gucci‘s maxi GG stretch jersey.

My look: GG-Supreme cotton-blend canvas coat, checked tweed jacket, and matching checked tweed shorts, ruffled silk-crepe de Chine blouse, and The Hacker Project Knife boots, all by Gucci, pearl necklace and dark blue 2.55 bag in velvet, both by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Felicia Sewerinsson @feliciasewerinsson
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