Sandra‘s Closet

I am so happy to share today’s post with you. Next week my blog is turning 9! Can you imagine? Time flies… just to give you an idea of all the work that went into this site. This is my 3821st post and since many years not one day has passed without spotting something new in the world of fashion. I enjoy so much what I am doing and would love to celebrate with you…

Meet me next Thursday, November 22nd, 2018 between 6pm – 9pm at the LA MER counter at JELMOLI in Zurich!

For all my Swiss readers and of course also for those who want to come to Switzerland, meet me next Thursday, November 22nd 2018 between 6pm – 9pm at the LA MER counter at JELMOLI in Zurich for an evening filled with bubbles, beauty and great company.

That night, the shops in Zurich will be open until 10pm and the city’s «Lucy» lights for Christmas will be illuminate the Bahnhofstrasse in a switch-on ceremony at 6pm.

As space is limited and a personalized gift will be waiting for you, I would kindly ask you to sign up latest on Monday, 19th of November. Please send me an e-mail with the header «LA MER», your full name and the time you are planning to come to . First come, first serve. I will send you a confirmation e-mail to confirm your presence.

You will get a lot of special treats – here is what to expect:
Champagne from Perrier-Jouët

Freelance celebrity make-up artist Andrea Kipfer will introduce LA MER‘s amazing Skincolor Foundation. Andrea is the co-founder of the renowned hair & makeup agency Style Council and has done many advertising and fashion shoots. During the evening, she will happily help you to improve your make-up skills and share some beauty secrets with us.

You also get the chance to discover the different textures of the famous LA MER moisturizers. Once you find your favorite, you will be gifted with a luxury size sample of it.On top, each guest will receive an original size LA MER Lip Balm worth CHF 82.00 that will be engraved with a special message.

I am so much looking forward to meeting and spending the evening with you!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, © Andrea Kipfer
© André Hengst – www.on-eyes-photography.ch
#LoveLaMer www.lamer.ch

The famous ASW Winter Weekend in Gstaad is approaching fast and Friday’s dress code «Je ne regrette rien» might leave some with questions. Therefore I put together a little guide with lots of inspiration for you to get ahead of the fashion game. For those not coming, take this post as an idea for your next holiday festivities. You might outshine even the Christmas tree…

As many designers are looking into their archives for inspiration, time-traveling on our part is absolutely trending. From sixties retro to nineties nostalgia, the only mission is to stand out of the crowd. And there is truth in the fact that French women seem to always get it right! It is the widely adored allure of «je ne sais quoi» attitude. Their ability to assemble an outfit in the most put together way without looking too made up.

When it comes to partying, the capital of France has enthralled party planners and party goers for centuries. This December, ASW will bring the opulent glamour and intrigue of Paris nights to their members. Think of red plush, sparkling lights, think of the time when Edith Piaf first sang her iconic song «Je ne regrette rien» in 1960 or seek inspiration from the late 1970s through the 1990s, when «Les Bains Douches» was the nightclub to go in Paris. Imagine Jean-Paul Belmondo, Alain Delon, and Brigitte Bardot, dancing at «Chez Régine» or transform yourself into a burlesque dancer that could have popped out of the famous «Moulin Rouge» or «Crazy Horse» with feathers, sequins and showing off lots of skin. For the gentlemen the motto is to become the most handsome dandy or French lover. It is the allure that counts. Don’t forget a touch of sleaziness is always welcome during Parisian nights… here you can can…. here life is a cabaret.

Below are some outfit inspirations, to shop just click on the highlighted text:

LIFE IS A CABARET
Crystal-embellished feather and felt hat by Gucci, feather-trim velvet bustier dress and tasseled sequined chiffon pouch, both by Attico, Salsa feather-embellished suede sandals by Charlotte Olympia, long feather scarf by Yves Salomon and smoking silver-tone, enamel and crystal clip earrings by Saint Laurent.

BURLESQUE EXTRAVAGANZA
Cold-shoulder lace-up stretch-tulle midi dress by Dolce & Gabbana, sequined long dress by Temperley London, lace ribbon garter by Folies by Renard, Talitha feather-trimmed glossed-leather sandals by Saint Laurent, and ruffle-trimmed woven clutch by The Vampire’s Wife.

YES WE CAN CAN
Bow-detailed glittered stretch-velvet mini dress by Balmain, Pandor ruched printed silk-blend lamé mini dress by Isabel Marant, Vivienne glittered velvet clutch by Jimmy Choo, Marguerite 100 velvet and leather-trimmed mesh mules and Daisy 100 leather-trimmed velvet ankle boots, both by Malone Souliers by Roy Luwolt.

BELLE DE NUIT 
Fringed embellished tulle jacket and crystal-embellished tulle jumpsuit, both by Naeem Khan, leopard-print turban headband by Gucci, Cleo crystal-embellished satin platform sandals by René Caovilla, Disco Pandora embellished glittered perspex clutch by Charlotte Olympia and gold-tone earring by Balenciaga.

FRENCH LOVER
Gold-fit satin-striped wool-blend suit, metallic jacquard suit, and lace-up leather derby shoes, both by Dolce & Gabbana, embroidered collar shirt, feather print scarf and dancing skeleton loafers, all by Alexander McQueen, and sequin blazer by Saint Laurent.

FOREVER CRAZY
Taking the theme to the next level and wearing the motto on your skin… those temporary transfer tattoo stickers are available here.

Looking forward to a great party ahead! Stay tuned for more…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands – Collages: © Sandra Bauknecht

Yesterday, in 16 Celine stores around the world a true object of desire arrived for a few chosen fashion lovers and I am one of them.

It is Slimane’s «16» bag (it is called the «Seize» which stands for sixteen in English, the latter a language you should not use to pronounce the new It-piece). The name derives from the address of the Maison’s headquarters and atelier on 16, Rue Vivienne in Paris.

The boxy, top-handle style was first spotted on Lady Gaga in August and caused a frenzy on Instagram right before Slimane’s debut show for Celine which took place in September during Paris Fashion Week. A runway presentation that was endlessly discussed and divided the fashion world into two camps, «Old Céline» and «New Celine».

But coming back to this beauty, the design features discreet gold hardware and the new accent-less Celine logo (don’t forget, there is no more Céline as Hedi took the «accent aigu» ( acute accent) away in the beginning of September). Officially it will hit the shelves in January/February 2019 and will be available in three sizes as well as a range of colors and leathers, including exotic skins.

I am so happy to have this holy grail of fashion already in my closet… stay tuned for my first outfit post with it! Cannot wait to sport this must-have piece on my arm. And yes, I am a committed fashion addict… and that is ok!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Hybrid fashion has been trending for some time now and it is a must when you are looking for refreshing staples. Here you see me wearing a deconstructed sweater that instantly catches your eye. Spliced with a lace-trimmed cream satin camisole through the middle, it slouches off the shoulder and has an adjustable spaghetti strap. The gray wool-blend is knitted with touches of cashmere so it feels soft and cozy. Perfect for a stroll through the city.

My look: Cashmere coat in pink by Prada, paneled wool-blend, lace and satin sweater by Alexander Wang, drawstring shorts by Givenchy, suede overknee boots by Dior, Kelly «So Black» by Hermès, GG jacquard pattern knitted scarf, and rabbit-felt fedora, both by Gucci.

The key to fight the autumn blues is to wear some vibrant colors and to have a glowing complexion. One product I can highly recommend is LA MER‘s new The Luminous Lifting Cushion Foundation SPF 20. This all-in-one compact is also a hybrid product, a mixture between powder and foundation, especially great for touch-ups on the go. With healing hydration from Miracle Broth™ and color capsule technology, it gives skin a lift of luminosity—for a fresh, flawless look and a plumper, firmer feel, like cashmere for your skin. Available now for CHF 115.00 including a refill and additional sponge applicator.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

For Resort 2019 Miuccia Prada helped to give us the 90’s rebirth we needed after all this ’80s dominance. And let’s be honest, it had to be her to celebrate this nineties nostalgia as she was the designer who had actually invented the «ugly chic» at that time. She looked through the archives, specifically her collections from the 1990s, for references this season.

The PRADA Resort 2019 show took place in New York City.

The outcome? Printed low-slung trousers with matching jackets, amazing leather coats and my favorite looks, belted miniskirts with ruffled detailing combined with cute polo tops. Moreover a new bag shape, that will probably sell out very fast.

Sidonie Bag Resort 2019

Meet the PRADA Sidonie that evokes elements of the archetypal bags presented in S/S 2000: a curvaceous, ergonomic shape, a modern classic rediscovered.

The inspiration behind the new PRADA Resort 2019 Sidonie Bag can be clearly seen in this ad campaign from S/S 2000.

Sidonie Bag Resort 2019

PRADA bags from S/S 2000 that I have in my closet.

A PRADA bag is always a great investment. I went through my closet to dust these S/S 2000 beauties. As I keep on recommending… don’t throw away your designer items, there will always be a time again for them. And those bags have just found their moment again.

Needless to say, I also would like to buy a new Sidonie bag for my own personal PRADA collection. I adore this blue and black version:

Sidonie Bag Resort 2019

The metal hardware details – plaques and buckles – draw on the brand heritage of superlative luggage-making, established by Mario Prada in 1913, juxtaposed with a modern shape, delicately curved and finely-balanced.

Sidonie Bag Resort 2019

The style is proposed in dual models, top-fastening or flap fronted with, respectively, a cross-body strap or haut, curved and shaped handle to be held on the shoulder for a new attitude. Both are offered in an entire wardrobe of fine calfskin and precious leathers.

PRADA Sidonie is a new character of the brand, a heroine, to be discovered. In stores this month.

’90s nostalgia with a modern twist! Bravo, Miuccia Prada!

LoL, Sandra

The PRADA Resort 2019 campaign: retro meets future.

Photos: Courtesy of Prada and © Sandra Bauknecht

HUBLOT has always pushed the boundaries of traditional watchmaking industry. This year, the watchmaker is celebrating ten years since the creation of Bitcoin by launching the brand-new Big Bang Meca-10 P2P limited edition watch, available for purchase exclusively online with Bitcoins and also featuring the transaction number engraved on the edge of the bezel, rendering each piece unique.

«This is the kind of dynamism and innovation that our partners in Asia delight in. It is a visionary approach that fully corresponds to Hublot’s vision. Through its partnership with OSL, this first P2P watch allows us to continue to explore future avenues.»
Ricardo Guadalupe, CEO of Hublot.

Bitcoin was created only just ten years ago in November 2008. This famous cryptocurrency, a virtual asset stored in digital form, was invented by Satoshi Nakamoto, a name used by the mysterious person – or persons – whose identity remains a mystery to this day. In any case, the peer to peer – P2P – payment system has attracted a large following of users and investors accepting payment for their transactions.

Ricardo Guadalupe and Wayne Trench launch the Hublot Big Bang Meca-10 P2P

A trailblazer in new technological and societal trends, Hublot has decided to mark the ten year anniversary of Bitcoin by launching the first watch that can only be purchased using Bitcoin. It will be sold exclusively via e-commerce and can only be ordered and paid for online. Such innovation was made possible through a collaboration with OS Limited (OSL), Asia’s leading digital asset brokerage. This makes Hublot the first big watchmaking brand to enter this sector.

«OSL is excited to collaborate with Hublot and LVMH, an industry leader in the luxury world, to enable a digital asset industry first. As investors are increasingly looking to diversify their investment portfolio by adding digital assets with generally low correlations to traditional asset classes, we are committed to providing our clients with industry leading trading solutions to support their investment journey.»
Dave Chapman, Chairman and Co-founder of OSL

The Big Bang Meca-10 P2P is a limited edition of 210 timepieces, a reference to the global limit of Bitcoins, which is fixed at 21 million.

True to the innovative design expected from the Big Bang collection, the “P2P” watch has a 45 mm case made from microblasted black ceramic. When we talk about ceramics in a Hublot watch, this does not mean clay-based pottery, but rather a high-tech material of zirconium dioxide pressed at a very high temperature. The Art of Fusion that is so dear to watchmakers and engineers at the Nyon manufacture.

It houses a HUB1201 manufacture calibre, a skeleton movement offering an exceptional 10-day power reserve. A number that was not chosen at random: Ten to mark the number of years the Bitcoin has existed. Each of the 210 pieces is unique: Manufactured for its wearer bearing the identification number of the transaction made via Bitcoin. Another reference to cryptocurrency can be found in the Blockchain inspired design – the interconnection network of computers on which virtual money works – on the blue calfskin leather strap which is lined with black rubber.

The Big Bang Meca-10 P2P was presented a few days ago in Hong Kong, where OSL headquarters is located. Ricardo Guadalupe, CEO of Hublot, greeted special guests at an event of technological splendour. Visitors entered through a captivating tunnel with an interactive display showing the world of cryptocurrency, and the unique payment system that enables Hublot to accept payment in Bitcoin.

A revolutionary milestone in the watchmaking world!
YOU CAN ORDER THE HUBLOT BIG BANG MECA-10 P2P HERE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Hublot

Yesterday, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show returned to its New York City home after three years. I was really eager to see it, especially because I was curious to see my beloved Mary Katrantzou‘s creations on the runway of angels. This year was a true glittery catwalk extravaganza that dazzled with over 850,000 crystals from Swarovski as Victoria’s Secret and Swarovski proudly introduced new facets of their iconic 16-year partnership.

Gigi Hadid in one of the Mary Katrantzou’s designs for the show.

It’s the most-watched fashion event of the year with around 800 million tuning in annually. And for a good reason! Atelier Swarovski created this year’s spectacular Dream Angels Fantasy Bra embellished with over 2,100 Swarovski Created Diamonds and Topaz. On another exciting note, fans will be able to purchase a replica version of the Fantasy Bra made with Swarovski crystals. 

Halsey performed on the runway in this blockbuster show…

… as well as Rita Ora and Shawn Mendes.

«In this year’s show we had 90 looks, and more than half of them have Swarovski crystals,» said Monica Mitro, EVP Brand Communications and Events for Victoria’s «It’s a really special show for both of our brands because it represents a true partnership. This year we had the greatest number of Swarovski crystals ever used in a show: these included the fully crystallized Swarovski look, plus over half of the other looks. And for the first time ever, we created the Fantasy Bra with Atelier Swarovski using sustainable, Swarovski lab-created diamonds, as well as producing a replica of the Fantasy Bra made with crystals from Swarovski, which we’ll be selling in our stores and online.»

Wearing the coveted Dream Angels Fantasy Bra is the ultimate honor for the Angels, and this year’s lucky recipient was Elsa Hosk, who described the delicate Atelier Swarovski designed bralette style as «very cool, very simple, modern, and so sparkly. If I had designed it myself, it would have looked just like this.»

Swarovski Created Diamonds are responsibly grown in a state-of-the-art lab according to the highest environmental, safety and labor standards, and yet they have the same optical, chemical and physical attributes as mined diamonds: both are 100% carbon, with the same hardness and brilliance. The Swarovski Genuine Topaz comes from traceable sources in Brazil and Sri Lanka. 

The replica bralette will retail at $250 and its matching panty at $98, with the total set featuring over 1,000 Swarovski crystals. Customers will be able to purchase their replica version on November 29 at select Victoria’s Secret stores and online at victoriassecret.com, before the show airs. 

«Swarovski’s partnership with Victoria’s Secret has brought major sparkle to the runways for over 15 years. We’re especially proud of our 2018 collaboration, because we’ve been able to add sparkle to women’s everyday lives by creating a commercial version of the Dream Angels Fantasy Bra,» said Alexander Wellhoefer, SVP for Swarovski Professional North America. 

The show closed with the sumptuous «Celestial Angel» section of the show, where Angel Romee Strijd’s official Swarovski Look transformed her into a shooting star. Made with over 125,000 crystals from Swarovski, the full outfit consisted of a sheer bodysuit hand-beaded with over 70,000 Swarovski crystals and framed by a seven-pointed star wing that took a team of experts over 250 hours to create.

More than 55,000 Swarovski crystals were placed on the celestial star wing.

«Victoria’s Secret and Swarovski have always been such a brilliant collaboration. Once the looks have Swarovski on them they’re elevated to another level. That’s what we look for in every show we do and in every piece we present. When we conceive the looks it’s always with Swarovski in mind because for us, the crystals bring a sense of luxury to the outfits—without them we just wouldn’t have that opulence. It’s essential to have Swarovski crystals in the collection,» said Sophia Neophitou, the show’s Creative Director.

Enjoy more looks and impressions below…
Happy Weekend!

LoL, Sandra

Adriana Lima

Aiden Curtiss

Alexina Graham

Barbara Palvin

Bella Hadid

Candice Swanepoel

Cindy Bruna

Devon Windsor

Duckie Thot

Estelle Chen

Jasmine Tookes

Josephine Skriver

Jourdana Phillips

Kendall Jenner

Lais Riberio

Leomie Anderson

Liu Wen

Martha Hunt

Mayowa Nicholas

Nadine Leopold

Sara Sampaio

Sui He

Toni Garrn

Winnie Harlow

Zuri Tibby

Photos Courtesy of Swarovski/Victoria’s Secret
Thomas Concordia/Getty Images for Swarovski

Fashionistas, attention please! CHANEL’s new Spring 2019 sunglasses will hit the stores this month and some of them will surely fly off the shelves. So better reserve your favorites now.

But what makes them stand out? It is the chain, an iconic signature at CHANEL. As an underlying theme of the season, it punctuates the frames for a multitude of possible styles and ways of being worn. A jewellery chain, ultra-feminine, an implicit fashion statement and a resolutely CHANEL allure… and moreover very practical!

Available in three solar frames (the same goes for the optical versions) – round, square and pantos (a combination of round and oval) – they are adorned with a metal link chain reminiscent of those that the seamstresses slip into the linings of jackets to ensure an impeccable drop. I have always loved this detail at CHANEL.

On certain versions, which will be the bestsellers, they come as a trio of chains: metal links, woven with leather and beaded. They reinterpret the idea of both an item of jewellery and an accessory, focusing on versatility to accentuate their fashionable design. Attached to the temples with a discreet link, they become a necklace when the glasses are not being worn on the face.

Then there are the Cruise 2019 show pieces. Sporting maritime influence, I love to get such a bold pair of sunglasses: as round as boat portholes, they play with pop block colour. Their intensely blue lenses really show the world… in blue.

Karl and Suzy have already been wearing them… and probably you soon, too.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © CHANEL, © Sandra Bauknecht and via Instagram @suzymenkes

Animal prints have been reigned supreme on the F/W 2018 catwalks, with leopard-print coats having a particularly strong presence.

Do you recognize me on this photo from 2004?
I am not blonde anymore but I still have this leopard coat…

Since many decades, fashion’s love affair with leopard print has been notably present in the glamorous world. This season, I recommend looking for a piece with contrast collars or cuffs to spice up the eye-catching look even more.

Below are my favorites to shop the trend now:

Contrast-collar leopard-print coat by Dolce & Gabbana

Leopard print coat by Simonetta Ravizza

Leopard print coat by Cédric Charlier

Leopard print coat by P.A.R.O.S.H.

Leopard print fur coat by Simonetta Ravizza

Leopard patterned coat by Liska

Oversized glossed leather-trimmed leopard-print shearling coat by Givenchy

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, via Vogue and Courtesy of the Brands

In 2017, SHISEIDO launched the WASO skincare line. Comprised of 7 daily skincare products, the line, which is inspired by Washoku, a traditional Japanese cuisine, is formulated to address the specific needs of young adult’s skin, as well as boosting its resistance to daily stressors.

This fall, Waso introduces two brand NEW masks to visibly and instantly rescue skin by resolving concerns due to our daily environment and lifestyle.

Formulated with two new star ingredients, associated with a unique anti-blemish technology, these masks will immediately improve sudden skin troubles and bring it back to a balanced and healthy looking condition. Constant exposure to the stresses and strains of modern living: late nights, overworking and pollution can take its toll on your skin. Your skin, as well as your mind, deserves a break with these little helpers.

PURIFYING PEEL OFF MASK
A pearl-red mask powered by botanicals. Peels away dirt, pollutants, such as oxidation, carbon and airborn dirt particles, and others causes of breakouts, to uncover smooth, hydrated skin that’s free from impurities. An emergency reset button for stress free skin and a stress-free mind.

FOCUS: RED SHISO FOR DETOX
Renowned for its natural health benefits, the Red Shiso’s roots lay deep in Japan. Rich in vitamins and minerals, this herb has been used throughout history for its detoxification and anti-oxidizing effects. By suppressing the glycation of protein, shiso leaf extract helps to minimize dullness caused by stress and restore radiance. For dewy, healthy-looking skin with a radiant glow.

WHO IS IT FOR?
• All skin types in need of refining
• Skin that needs purifying
• Skin that is dull
• Skin with visible pores

WHAT DOES IT DO?
• Removes old surface cells for smoother, more radiant skin
• Lifts sebum and impurities from pores for a clearer complexion
• Maintains essential moisture

WHAT WILL I SEE?
• A fresh, bright skin with renewed clarity
• Less visible pores

HOW TO USE IT
Use once or twice a week – approximately 3cm x 4 of product (equivalent to a tablespoon)
Smooth evenly on clean, dry skin, avoiding the eye area, brows, lips and hairline.
Wait for approximately 20 mins or until the mask becomes no longer sticky to the touch and gently remove from forehead to chin.
Purifying Peel Off Mask – CHF 46.80

BEAUTY SLEEPING MASK
An intensive yuzu-infused moisturizing mask. Recharges skin while you sleep for a refreshed, radiant and healthy-looking glow the very next morning – even after little sleep.

FOCUS: GREEN  YUZU FOR MOISTURE
High in vitamins A, C and E, Yuzu (Japanese citrus) is known for its intense beautifying effects. The Aoyuzu (Green Yuzu), harvested only in early summer, possesses a fresh acidity and crisp dewiness. Its extract promotes production of hyaluronic acid to help moisturize skin that is prone to dryness.

WHO IS IT FOR?
• All skin types in need of an intensive moisture boost
• Fatigued skin

WHAT DOES IT DO?
• Restores skin using an intensive moisture wrap
• Recharges skin overnight for a rested and vibrant complexion

WHAT WILL I SEE?
• Radiant and healthy looking skin
• Skin plumped with moisture

HOW TO USE IT
Complete recharge at night. Use as the last step in your skincare routine, just before going to bed. Take an almond-sized drop and smooth evenly over the face, gently blending it in. Do not remove the gel. Allow the mask to work while you sleep.

Flash 10 minutes recharge. Apply the product in thick layer and smooth over the face, focusing on the cheeks and around the eye area. After 10 minutes, massage the remaining gel onto the skin. When applying makeup directly after, use a tissue to absorb any excess oil.
Beauty Sleeping mask – CHF 55.80

Two masks to reset and recharge your beauty – true rescue remedies to keep skin trouble-free, and not only the young one. My daughter and I are fighting over them…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Shiseido