CHANEL’s Two-Tone Slingback Shoe

For CHANEL’s Paris – 31 rue Cambon Métiers d’Art 2020 show, models wore iconic shoes with a black toe, an 8cm heel and revisited proportions.

Mademoiselle called them pumps. «They are the final touch of elegance», she used to say. To perfect the silhouette that Gabrielle Chanel introduced to the world, it was necessary to create a shoe that went with any outfit, one that was elegant, could be worn morning to night, and was suited to the new lifestyle of women.

The Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida surrounded by CHANEL House models wearing suits and two-tone shoes (1964, F/W Haute Couture).

In 1957, Mademoiselle Chanel created the two-tone slingback shoe in beige and black. It created a highly graphic effect: the beige lengthened the leg while the black shortened the foot. Whereas shoes had previously been made in a single color that matched the color of one’s clothing, Mademoiselle Chanel once again overturned the codes of fashion by pairing beige and black with all outfits. In her words, «You leave in the morning wearing beige and black, you have lunch in beige and black, and you attend a cocktail party wearing beige and black. You’re dressed for the entire day!» Chanel’s slingback shoe experienced instant success. It varied in style, offering versions with a straighter or thinner heel and a rounded, square or pointed toe.

The beautiful heels for CHANEL’s Paris – 31 rue Cambon Métiers d’Art 2020 show were produced at Massaro.

Mademoiselle Chanel improved its comfort with the help of Massaro (which has remained Chanel’s custom shoe brand to this day) by adding an elastic strap. Located «just steps away from Rue Cambon,» the Massaro workshop continues to create all of the footwear creations for Chanel’s Haute Couture and Métiers d’Art collections. Starting with his very first collection, Karl Lagerfeld had channeled his talent to modernize this model. The two-tone shoe thus lends itself to a myriad of metamorphoses. In just one season, it may be transformed into a ballerina slipper, boot or sandal without losing any of its original spirit. «It’s become the most modern of shoes and makes beautiful legs,» Karl Lagerfeld explained many years ago.

Virginie Viard at CHANEL’s Paris – 31 rue Cambon Métiers d’Art 2020 show finale.

This season, Virginie Viard continued the legacy and created in my eyes one of the It-shoes of the season, comfortable and stylish in one. I love mine and will show you how I wore them on all my recent travels around Europe. They are available now for CHF 900.

LoL, Sandra

CHANEL’s Paris – 31 rue Cambon Métiers d’Art 2020 ad campaign

Photos: © CHANEL© Photo Philippe Garnier / Elle-Scoop
DISCLOSURE: This post is not sponsored. I just love those shoes.

Hublot Big Bang Camo Yohji Yamamoto

THE BIG BANG DRESSED IN CAMOUFLAGE

For 50 years, Yohji Yamamoto has been offering a timeless style that transcends established notions. Like the monochrome featured on the Big Bang GMT All Black Yohji Yamamoto, Yohji Yamamoto’s iconic textiles and daring approach to motifs set the tone for the Big Bang Camo Yohji Yamamoto.

In May 2020, Hublot celebrated the grand opening of its new flagship Boutique on Chuo-dori Street in Ginza, Tokyo with this limited edition Big Bang GMT All Black Yohji Yamamoto.

Launching this month: a camouflage timepiece with a gritty vibe, as though deciphering a code that exists between paradox and homage, the new Big Bang Camo Yohji Yamamoto.

«I am powerfully drawn to a cutting-edge approach, in the sense that it expresses a point of view that is slightly removed from traditional values. Each collection incorporates a message about what I am feeling right now. It is a way to invite people to question what is already there, which is something I value greatly. »
Yohji Yamamoto – Fashion Designer

The Big Bang Camo Yohji Yamamoto is released as a limited edition of 200 pieces. Its 45 mm case is cut from matt black ceramic and its sapphire dial features superimposed outlines which form biomorphic patches in an echo of the artist’s camouflage motif, with his signature at 6 o’clock. The original construction of the camouflage motif extends onto the strap where each of the constituent shapes of the outline is cut out individually, assembled, and then fused together using the vulcanisation process. This is brand new technology for the watchmaking sector, reinforcing Hublot’s position as the first brand to use vulcanisation in the creation of its straps. The second strap is a black fabric option. The Big Bang Camo Yohji Yamamoto houses the Unico manufacture movement, with a 72-hour power reserve.

Yohji Yamamoto

The Yohji Yamamoto signature
Tagged as anti-fashion, Yohji Yamamoto’s creations are designed to raise questions, and all his collections contain this message. A master of contradiction and antagonism, Yohji Yamamoto sees the camouflage motif as the epitome of paradox, present and future clashing strikingly or blending seamlessly. As well as the initial message delivered by the camouflage print, he is reclaiming the values behind the clothes. The values of a rebellious spirit, a strong will, and cutting-edge individuality.

Decoding
An intellectual rebel at heart, designer Yohji Yamamoto has revolutionized fashion and design. Fabrics woven by artisans in Japan, mostly in black, which Yamamoto deems both modest and arrogant, are an important part of the garment making process. This camouflage print harks back to his previous work wear collection and highlights the fact that the act of choosing our clothing is an expression of our role and recognition in society. The use of this textile is a statement of respect for the artisans and contains a message about the value and preservation of the beautiful work performed by the hands and the body.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hublot and © Yohji Yamamoto

GRAZIE Sergio

Five months after Sergio Rossi passed away, the house he founded has unveiled a new archive driven collection of the famed shoemaker’s greatest hits named GRAZIE Sergio. Reproducing 10 signature designs created by Rossi from 1969 to 2003, the limited edition collection (400 styles per shoe) will begin retailing in selective stores and online in December.

Our history is what makes us who we are. Throwback to the Sergio Rossi archive: Carla Bruni shot by Ellen von Unwerth. 

«I am proud to introduce GRAZIE Sergio, a project from the heart and filled with emotion, inspired by the creator of the dream we live every day. A tribute I deemed necessary to carry on and celebrate, today more than ever, his vision and creativity. I have always had a profound respect for Mr. Sergio Rossi, and I felt the responsibility to guide the brand inspired by his values from my arrival at the company. GRAZIE Sergio is more than a collection as it lives above all traditional seasons and comes from the visceral desire to move and be moved. We have revived from the archive 10 of his most beautiful creations and signature styles, made in our magic factory of San Mauro Pascoli, dedicated to all Sergio Rossi lovers. GRAZIE Sergio is a love letter to our women, a tribute to the Maestro, but also an important statement to restore a great truth: Sergio Rossi has always been and still is the symbol of femininity, quality and timeless Italian style» – Riccardo Sciutto, Sergio Rossi Group CEO. Since arriving in the company in 2016, Sciutto began organizing a significant archive for the house, which was founded in 1951.

10 creations manifesto of the aesthetics of the years, signature styles contemporary today more than ever, including the pillars and iconic collections as sr1 and srTwenty:
1969 – GRAZIE Sergio pump in leather with geometrical heel, heel 60
1973 – GRAZIE Sergio platform chalk and carminio bicolor leather, heel 70
1983 – GRAZIE Sergio pump black printed cocco with accessory, heel 90
1991 – GRAZIE Sergio pump in red lycra stretch, heel 50
1998 – GRAZIE Sergio cage sandal in black suede with silver details, heel 85
1998 – GRAZIE Sergio sr1 sandal in pearl leather, heel 60
2000 – GRAZIE Sergio mule in pony leather, heel 90
2000 – GRAZIE Sergio boots in platinum mesh with shiny details, heel 90
2000 – GRAZIE Sergio srTwenty mule in printed reptile, heel 60
2003 – GRAZIE Sergio lady jane in black patent leather with fringes and steel heel, heel 90

Bold, refined and timeless. No detail is left to chance: every shoe has the original logo from its year and is placed in a one-of-a-kind packaging.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sergio Rossi, @SERGIOROSSI
#GrazieSergio #SergioRossi

CHANEL N°5 Holidays 2020

This holiday season, CHANEL invites you to discover 5 essentials for a complete perfuming ritual revolving around its most iconic fragrance: N°5.
CHANEL has elevated the abstract scent of N°5 with 5 new textures for the body. 5 ways to wear fragrance and intensify your trail, 5 ways to leave your mark, 5 ways to remember that any detail that transforms the ordinary is a necessity.

THE FINISHING TOUCH OF THIS PERFUMING RITUAL:
N°5 Eau de Parfum, a legendary, timeless fragrance, a floral aldehyde bouquet housed in a bottle with a minimalist design. During the holiday season, it is dressed up for the occasion in an exclusive, limited-edition sleeve.

THE 5 BATH AND BODY ESSENTIALS OF THE N°5 PERFUMING RITUAL

ESSENTIEL N°1
THE SHOWER GEL – CHF 60.00 (200ml)
A pure moment of pleasure, the N°5 Shower Gel’s creamy, foaming texture lightly scents the skin and leaves it feeling velvety soft. Its transparent bottle is now equipped with the «Twist and Slide» cap, a CHANEL exclusive that makes it easy to dispense the product

ESSENTIEL N°2
THE BODY LOTION – CHF 68.00 (200ml)
The N°5 Body Lotion provides instant hydration on a daily basis and is easily and liberally applied thanks to its «Twist and Slide» cap. Its formula, enriched with an active ingredient derived from rose and jasmine, leaves a delicate, hydrating veil on the skin for 8 hours.*

ESSENTIEL N°3
THE BODY CREAM – CHF 106.00 (150g)
The N°5 Body Cream provides a voluptuous experience and is intensely hydrating. Its rich, sensual texture envelops skin in softness and keeps it moisturized for 8 hours.* Presented in a lightly frosted glass jar, the N°5 Body Cream, enriched with an active ingredient derived from rose and jasmine, subtly prolongs the N°5 trail.

ESSENTIEL N°4
THE DEODORANT – CHF 56.00 (100ml)
An immediate veil of freshness for lasting well-being, the N°5 Deodorant leaves the skin lightly scented. Housed in an opaque bottle, this comforting step of the routine was formulated with subtle, fresh notes that perfectly complement the floral bouquet of N°5.

ESSENTIEL N°5
THE HAIR MIST – CHF 63.00 (35ml)
Ultimate touch of seduction to infuse hair with the delicate scent of N°5. In a transparent, frosted glass bottle, its formula enriched with a new active ingredient derived from rose and jasmine makes hair soft and shiny.

In stores in November 2020.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © CHANEL
*Instrumental test conducted on 20 women

My Look: Sport

Activewear is probably the biggest trend for 2020. Due to the current pandemic, customers prefer comfortable styles such as all-in-one bodysuits, tight leggings and workout gear. As women are flocking to stores to buy the latest in fashionable fitness clothing, Balenciaga has come up with the perfect combination of a skirt and a pair of shorts. I am in love with this skort. No more excuses to not exercise.

My look: Off-the-shoulder velvet mini skort dressicon, logo-appliqué cotton baseball cap
icon, Hello Kitty printed leather tote, and Triple S leather and mesh trainersicon, all by Balenciaga.

LoL, Sandra

 Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.icon

Designer Face Masks

This fall season, most outfits have one thing in common, a face mask, as we now can’t enter most shops and events without them. However, besides thinking about your look, it’s an important item for practical purposes. High-street retailers have been selling masks for several months now, but most major luxury fashion brands have stayed away from creating face masks for commercial purposes so far. Finally, numerous designers, such as BurberryDolce & Gabbana, Marni and Fendi, have started to produce fashionable face coverings with vivid prints so that you can coordinate them with their outfits. Find my favorites below, to shop click on the highlighted product description. The mask in the cover photo is by Burberry and can be found here.

LoL, Sandra

Leopard-print face maskicon by Dolce & Gabbana

Majolica print face mask by Dolce & Gabbana


iconHeart monogram-print face mask by Dolce & Gabbana


iconBaroque polka-dot print face mask by Dolce & Gabbana


iconStripe print face mask by Missoni

Abstract-print face mask by Missoni

Astract print face maskicon by Marni

Checked face mask by Marni


iconFloral face maskicon by Marni

Silk logo-print face maskicon by Fendi

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.

Designer Tights


What makes this season’s vibrant hosiery so interesting is that those bold stockings are being paired with relatively straightforward clothes. Update a simple sweater and miniskirt with blue tights or elevate your evening dress with sexy lace hosiery. Those Balenciaga logo tights might look extreme at first pass, but under a trench coat they read almost normal. If we’ve learned anything from the trends this season, it’s that being just left of center feels so right and designer tights seem so much more tempting…

1 Flocked tightsicon by Balenciaga
2 Metallic lace tightsicon by Gucci
3 Floral stretch-lace tightsicon by Dries Van Noten
4 Ribbed stretch-silk tightsicon by Prada


5 Jacquard-knit tightsicon by Gucci
6 Lamé-coated metallic tightsicon by Gucci
7 Swedish Stockings leopard-print 60 denier tightsicon by Ganni
8 Intarsia fishnet tightsicon by Gucci

LoL, Sandra

Stills: Courtesy of the Brands, Photo: © Gucci
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

My Look: Traditional

Today, Munich’s Oktoberfest would be kicking off, but unfortunately it was cancelled due to the current pandemic. Personally speaking, visiting the world’s biggest beer festival in my old hometown always marked the beginning of fall for me. I absolutely love wearing those fabulous traditional clothes. Therefore today’s post is dedicated to a loden-style designer look and I truly hope you will like it.

My look: Tyrolean loden jacket, matching loden shorts, and bow-top felted cap, all by Miu Miu, bustier corset top with bows by Dolce & Gabbana, embellished leather pumpsicon by Gucciblack and white grained leather bag with gold-tone metal details by CHANEL, and velvet and gold-tone multi-stone choker by Etro.

LoL, Sandra

iconPhotos: © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

From Runway to Rostrum – Prada x Sotheby’s

This week, Prada and Sotheby’s unveiled a selection of highlights from «Tools of Memory», an online auction to raise funds for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and its efforts to safeguard learning for students around the world in the face of the unprecedented disruption caused by COVID-19. At the peak of the pandemic, school closures to contain its spread interrupted the education of more than 1.5 billion children and youth – 90% of the world’s students – disproportionately impacting girls and women, for whom education is often a lifeline.

Prada will donate its proceeds raised in this auction to specifically benefit UNESCO’s new campaign entitled Keeping girls in the picture and their Global Education Coalition’s Gender Flagship, which has been leading collaborative efforts to promote the continuity of learning during closures and ensure a safe return to school for all women everywhere.

ITEM FEATURED IN AUCTION: GALLERIA SAFFIANO LEATHER TOTE – IN YELLOW, RED, BLUE, GREEN – AUTHOR: MIUCCIA PRADA 

An online sale like no other, every item featured is an original piece from the Prada F/W Men’s and Women’s fashion shows, including one-of-a-kind garments worn by the models, photographic prints of candid moments backstage, polaroid, seat cards and invitations, objects from the runway décor, and vinyl with the accompanying music for both presentations by Frédéric Sanchez.

ITEM FEATURED IN AUCTION: ANTI-HERO STATUE, MEN’S SHOW CENTERPIECE – PAINTED WOOD, 370 CM HEIGHT – AUTHOR: AMO/REM KOOLHAAS 

The sale features 72 lots in total and will open for bidding on Sotheby’s website from 2-15 October. Pop-up teaser exhibitions will also be staged at Sotheby’s in London and New York in the lead up to the sale. Debuted in January and February this year, Prada’s F/W 2020 shows transformed the grand hall of the Deposito of Fondazione Prada into two piazzas, designed by research and design studio AMO. An equestrian statue and a representation of the Greek Titan Atlas designed by Rem Koolhaas formed the centrepieces of the Men’s and Women’s shows respectively, and will now appear as highlights of the auction.

ITEM FEATURED IN AUCTION: CARNATION PRINT ORGANZA DRESS – WORN BY LICETT MORILLO – AUTHOR: MIUCCIA PRADA 

From layered fringes to deconstructed pleats, geometric prints, knitwear and shearling-lined outerwear, «Tools of Memory» features over 40 looks from the house’s F/W 2020 presentations. Comprising the clothing, shoes, and accessories worn by the models only for fittings and on the catwalk, each outfit is presented as an individual lot. Further items include unique garments, footwear and eyewear, handbags and jewellery, which will not be available to purchase in Prada’s stores but will be offered exclusively here.

ITEM FEATURED IN AUCTION: BEADED FRINGE EMBROIDERY DRESS – ITEM NOT FEATURED IN THE SHOW – AUTHOR: MIUCCIA PRADA 

A one-of-a-kind pastel blue dress with an embellished beaded fringe neckline also joins the line-up. Making its debut appearance, the dress was originally created for the show but the same prototype in a different colour featured on the final catwalk.

ITEM FEATURED IN AUCTION: PRE-SHOW PHOTOGRAPH OF GIGI HADID AND RIANNE VAN ROMPAEY – LARGE FORMAT FINE ART PRINT – AUTHOR: DANIEL ARNOLD

Photographic prints by Daniel Arnold, Phil Meech and model Gigi Hadid capture moments before and after each presentation backstage. Totems to the season, these shots as well as polaroid records of the models Kaia Gerber and Mensah Benjamin’s fittings, immortalise the backstage process and on-stage performance of the fashion experience.

ITEM FEATURED IN AUCTION: PRE-SHOW PHOTOGRAPH OF BANGALI DRAMMEH – LARGE FORMAT FINE ART PRINT – AUTHOR: DANIEL ARNOLD 

Detailed information about the online auction can be found on sothebys.com as well as on prada.com.

POP UP EXHIBITION DATES AT SOTHEBY’S
London 16-23 September
New York 18-22 September

LoL, Sandra

ITEM FEATURED IN AUCTION: ATLAS STATUE, WOMEN’S SHOW CENTERPIECE – PAINTED WOOD, 370 CM HEIGHT – AUTHOR: AMO/REM KOOLHAAS 

Photos: Courtesy of Prada and UNESCO
#PradaSothebys #PradaToolsOfMemory #PradaFW20

My Look: Tropical Meets Apple Tree

With this warm forecast set for September, we will all spend as much time outdoors as possible. Even though we might not be jetting off to some beautiful tropical island, that doesn’t mean we cannot wear those vibrant holiday prints at home. Tropical patterns have been a huge trend this summer. I think they match perfectly with Swiss apple trees and green meadows, don’t you agree?

My look: Juliette strapless knotted tiered printed linen maxi dressicon by Zimmermann, Monogramme fringed leather and jacquard clutchicon by Saint Laurent, red ruffle 90 sandals by Aquazzura, Mary Mare Under The Sun printed cotton-blend hat
icon by Mary Katrantzou, polarized pilot sunglasses by CHANEL, LOVE bracelets by Cartier, beaded Mexican-style clip earrings by Etro, Royal Oak 37mm 18-karat frosted rose gold watch by Audemars Piguet and Lucky Virtue 18-karat and silk braceleticon by Carolina Bucci.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.