As promised here are the details to my all white look that I wore to the Dîner en Blanc in Paris last Sunday.
My look: Desdemona white lace dress by Temperley London, platform leather pumps by Gucci, white «Duffle 6» bag by Saint Laurent, Eiffel Tower pearl earrings, pearl necklaces, and white camelia sunglasses, all by Chanel, Tonda 1950 Set Clarity watch by Parmigiani Fleurier.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
Thank you Emily May Nind for taking them!
Yesterday’s news really got me and my outfit post from Le Dîner en Blanc has to wait another day… Around 10am New York time, fashion designer KATE SPADE, 55, was found dead by a housekeeper in her bedroom at her Park Avenue apartment in N.Y.C. Apparently she hang herself with a red scarf from a doorknob. She was pronounced dead at the scene, according to The New York Times.
The Spade family
What really gives me chills is the fact that she is survived by her husband of 24 years and her 13-year-old daughter. Being a mum myself, I cannot imagine the pain that has to be inside you to do this to your family. It is said that she left a note behind with messages for them to explain her actions. Her husband Andy was at home while their daughter was in school.
Message on the Kate Spade website
KATE SPADE‘s story is a successful one at least when you read it. Neé Katherine Noel Brosnahan, founded her namesake brand in 1993 with husband Andy Spade after working in the accessories department at the fashion magazine Mademoiselle. While having dinner at a restaurant, both were identifying a market for quality stylish handbags which led to a fashion revolution in the 1990s by establishing one of the first modern accessories brands that did not rely on European roots.
Detachable tag tote by Kate Spade
Spade’s reasonably priced, box-shaped bags, covered in modest fabrics like microfiber and grosgrain, became quickly became popular, and the company expanded into other product lines, such as clothing and shoes.
Kate Spade amongst her handbags in 1999.
In 1999 she sold a 56% stake in KATE SPADE New York to Neiman Marcus Group; in 2006 she sold the rest of her shares, opting to focus on family over fashion as she had her daughter at quite a late age in 2005. «I needed a break and I really wanted to raise my daughter,» she told PEOPLE magazine in 2016. «People asked me, ‘Don’t you miss it?’ I really didn’t. I mean, I loved what I was doing, but I didn’t miss it as much as I thought I might.»
Pieces from Kate’s new label Frances Valentine
Two years ago, she began another accessories brand, Frances Valentine, named for her daughter, Frances Beatrix, together with her husband. For this reason, she legally changed her name to Kate Valentine Spade to match her new label. «I thought it was important to distinguish who I am now,» she said. «I’m the same person, but there’s a difference.»
The difference might have killed her. R.I.P. Kate Spade! I am wishing the family a lot of strength to cope with this terrible strategy.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: Courtesy of Kate Spade, © Sandra Bauknecht, Getty and People magazine
Last Sunday, I flew from Belgrade where I had spent an amazing weekend with my girlfriends to Paris to attend the famous Le Dîner en Blanc (Dinner in White) that was originally launched with just a handful of friends by François Pasquier exactly 30 years ago. This gathering always takes place in one of Paris’ most prestigious locations, among them for example the Champs-Elysées, the Louvre museum, and the forecourt of Notre-Dame Cathedral. It brings together some 20,000 people, half of whom are from other countries, to dine at the same table.
Me at the meeting point waiting for the location to be revealed.
At the last minute, the secret location is revealed via text message to the participants who have all been patiently waiting to learn where Le Dîner en Blanc will take place. You meet at a certain point in the city and walk to the designated area which looks already spectacular as everybody is dressed up in all white.
Despite the green light for the traffic, people are walking to the designated area.
This Sunday, we gathered on green lawns with fabulous views of the Invalides, the gold-domed building that houses the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte and other prominent French figures. We all brought our chairs, tables with white tablecloths and the greatest decorum for this mass «chic picnic» in a public space.
People setting up their tables and decorations.
Having a great time with my friends, even that I had only slept 2 hours…!
There are no disruptions: no car traffic, no pedestrian traffic—only amazed and astonished looks from passersby observing the scene before them. Even the Parisian police continues to tolerate this «wild» gathering, if not perhaps even wishing they could join in! And participants, like spectators, wonder whether it’s all not a dream… for a few incredible hours, a special magic permeated the site and enveloped all in attendance, making everything seem more beautiful. Surrounded by thousands of twinkling little lights, a dazzling Eiffel Tower, we all enjoyed this exceptional Parisian evening.
Stay tuned for the outfit post coming up tomorrow…
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
Jay-Z once claimed to have made the Yankees baseball cap «more famous than a Yankee can.» Now, with GUCCI‘s collaboration with MLB (Major Baseball League), Alessandro Michele takes his turn at bat and baseball gear is about to get a high fashion makeover.
For Pre-Fall 2018, GUCCI features a variety of MLB Yankees hats ranging in color and style. The collaboration will include several of MLB’s historic clubs extending into apparel and accessories in the F/W 2018 collection.
TO SHOP THE GUCCI x MLB YANKEE BASEBALL CAPS, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: Courtesy of Gucci
«Creativity takes courage.» – Henri Matisse
To mark the thirtieth anniversary of the emblematic Supracolor® Soft pencil, Caran d’Ache is celebrating its devotion to boundless creativity with an absolute treasure chest. This selection comprises more 422 colour pencils taken from the brand’s different yet complementary ranges, including Luminance 6901®, Museum Aquarelle, Supracolor® Soft, Pablo® and Prismalo® Aquarelle. It is one of the largest collection of artistic pencils in the world.
This prestigious limited edition of 100 numbered cases contains all the expertise and creativity tirelessly developed in the Geneva-based workshops since 1915, presented in an elegant, ebony-coloured wooden box. As the lid is lifted, the eyes are greeted with an explosion of colours and materials, a unique opportunity for artists to express their creativity using a whole host of different techniques.
During my own fashion design studies, I loved to work with Caran d’Ache pencils, especially using the iconic Supracolor® Soft, of which 30 new limited-edition shades are included in this box. Their quality lies in particular in the brightness of the colours and their unique covering power.
The weight of the filled box, that is available for CHF 4200, is approximately 17kg. Would love to have one…
LoL, Sandra
Photos: Courtesy of Caran d’Ache and © Sandra Bauknecht
One question, I am constantly asked is, how I clean my clothes as I tend to wash things that are not supposed to be washed despite the care instruction label. Two ladies sharing the mutual idea, Gwen Whiting and Lindsey Boyd, founded therefore THE LAUNDRESS. Let me tell you a little more about this concept of amazing laundry detergents and more:
The Laundress founders Gwen Whiting and Lindsey Boyd at their Soho store in NYC.
After discovering that 90% of the ‘dry clean only’ items in their wardrobe were actually washable, the duo set out to develop a range of detergents that not only clean clothes, but care for them too. Their toxin-free products tackle tough stains without fading colors and are gentle enough to be used on even the most precious cashmere.
The Laundress products are organized by fabric types.
HERE ARE MY FAVORITE PRODUCTS BY THE LAUNDRESS –
Click on the highlighted text to shop the products online:
No. 10 Bundle
No. 10 is a provocative, original scent developed to meet the standards of a luxury fine fragrance, yet designed with clothing care in mind. This rich and sophisticated scent blends sultry spice and fresh powder notes with warm musk to round out its elegant accord. The all-purpose laundering formula is available in three different versions:
– Spritz the powdery light fragrance of ‘No.10 Fabric Fresh’ on car interiors, drapery, carpets and bedding
– ‘No.10 Fabric Conditioner’ reduces dry time, wrinkles and static cling
– The brand’s signature ‘No.10 Laundry Detergent’ is highly concentrated and works for up to 32 washes
Silk and Delicate Care Set
Created to reduce the need for frequent dry cleaning of your lingerie and silk pieces. Made with natural ingredients, the specially formulated wash removes stains and odors while preserving the condition of the fabrics. Use the spray to keep items fresh between wears. Scented in Lady, an herbal and citrus blend of rich amber, bergamot, lavender, and musk.
Wool and Cashmere Care Set
Keeping your clothes in pristine condition: The eco-friendly shampoo combines cedar extract and is sulfate-free to preserve the natural components of your clothing’s yarns. The portable spray removes odors and freshens fabrics, plus it contains moth-repellent.
Denim Care Set
Treat your designer denim to the care it deserves with this specialist set. The allergen-free detergent doesn’t contain fabric-damaging chemicals, so color and softness are preserved. Use the cleanly scented spray to freshen your jeans between washes.
Sport Care Set
This kit ensures that laundry isn’t excuse for skipping a workout. The detergent makes it easy to take care of your active and swimwear by removing odors and stains from a variety of fabrics. The non-toxic spray has antibacterial properties to freshen clothes, gym bags, helmets, sneakers and more. Lightly scented with a blend of leafy greens, eucalyptus and musk.
Whites & Darks Fabric Care Set
This set of sweet-smelling, biodegradable detergents contains ‘Classic Darks Detergent’ and ‘Classic Whites Detergent’, which are both housed in beautiful bottles. The dermatologist-recommended formula contains stain-fighting enzymes, color guard and is concentrated to ensure a little goes a long way.
Travel Pack fabric care set
LOVE THIS!!! I have it always with me when I traveling for longer periods. This compact travel pack comprises a miniature stain-remover, crease-remover and static-solver as well as a clothing freshener scented with essential oils.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: Courtesy of The Laundress
Greetings from Bagatelle Beach in St. Tropez, which is one of my favorite beach clubs in the world. Such great memories from a sunny weekend with ASW for the Asmallworld Summer Weekend. Wearing Missoni is always a great choice to cater to both, beach life and party.
My look: Ombré crochet-knit cardigan, Elisabetta crochet-knit wide-leg jumpsuit
, and Elisabetta crochet-knit bandeau bikini, all by Missoni
, Rockstud rubber sandals
by Valentino, leather bag with logo by Moschino, Chelsea pilot sunglasses in rose gold with blue mirrored lenses by Michael Kors, key necklace, pearl necklace, candy necklace and matching candy bracelet, all by Chanel, Diorette daisy necklace and Rose des Vents bracelets in turquoise, pink, green and orange by Dior Joaillerie, diamond ring by Vainard Fine Jewellery, and Tonda 1950 Set Clarity watch by Parmigiani Fleurier.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © David Biedert Photography
One make-up collection for summer always gets me extremely excited and has never disappointed me. This year is no different: Tom Ford Beauty Soleil Summer 2018 has launched with the most beautiful fresh colors for eyes, lips and cheeks.
There is a new double-ended product called Shade and Illuminate Glow Stick (CHF 68.00) in Sunstruck with a shimmering gold and bold apricot cream. The colors are creamy and quite pigmented but blend beautifully on the skin, for the perfect glow on your face. You can swipe them without disrupting your foundation.
The famous Soleil Contouring Compact (CHF 100.00) comes in a new colors. The palette Nude Glow offers three shades, a soft powdery gold champagne, soft peach and pale pink glow. Most beautiful when layered together.
For the lip colors, there are really some beautiful new shades. I’m very happy with the Lip Color Sheer (CHF 62.00) in Bambou. It is a warm brownish shade that looks great in the sun especially if you don’t wear a lot of make-up at the beach.
For the eyes there is a new Shade and Illuminate Kohl Duo (CHF 51.00) in L’Avventura and Soleil Blanc, great to brighten the inner part of your eyes.
If you like to wear a stronger eye make-up, have a look at the new shade Emerald Isles (gold glitter + emerald cream) of the Cream and Powder Eye Color (CHF 60.00). Easily applied with the fingers, it intensifies any eye color.
There is also the new Eau de Soleil Blanc Eau de Toilette (CHF 132.00 for 50ml and CHF 200.00 for 100ml) which you should not miss. It embodies a refreshing illumination on the original Private Blend Soleil Blanc, bright, crips and drenched with sparkling citrus. The vibrant twist on the floral, amber warmth mirrors the crystalline reflection of the white sun, a sensual gleam of sky on water.
If you are at the counter, have also a look at the new Ultra-Shine Lip Colors (CHF 62.00 each) which are available in 11 new shades, the Soleil Lip Glow in Lumière (CHF 62.00) and the Sheer Cheek Duo in Exotica Flora (CHF 88.00).
ALTERNATIVELY YOU CAN SHOP TOM FORD BEAUTY ONLINE BY CLICKING HERE.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, Stills: Courtesy of Tom Ford Beauty
Summer is here, days are getting longer, nights are getting shorter, the city is coming to life again and the anticipation of the upcoming summer holidays is rising.
Whether beach or balcony, whether 20°C or 40°C, the right sun care is a must. Protect your hair as you protect your skin. UV rays, ocean breeze, chlorine, and salt, all damage the hair by opening the surface, making it dry, coarse, dull and difficult to manage. That’s why WELLA offers the WELLA SUN care range for before and after sunbathing – for healthy, shiny, and summer-scented hair. And to make sure you are perfectly styled for the nights, there is the INVIGO line, which takes care of your individual scalp and hair needs, infused with caring and refreshing ingredients.
HERE IS A SUMMARY OF WHAT YOU CAN WIN:
Product set of WELLA SUN, consisting of:
– Hair & Skin Hydrator (Provides long-lasting moisture to the hair and skin, leaving a seductive shimmering effect)
– Protection Spray (High-performance UV protection for before and during sun exposure.)
– Hair & Body Shampoo (Gently helps to remove impurities from sunscreen, salt, and chlorinated water while actively restoring moisture, leaving the hair and body feeling invigorated.)
Product set of Wella INVIGO, consisting of:
– Refresh Water Revitalizing Shampoo (Refreshing shampoo with menthol that cools and helps energise the scalp, leaving the hair full of vitality.)
– Deep Nourishing Conditioner (Instantly moisturises dry or stressed hair for nourished hair full of vitality.)
– Volume Boost (Uplifting care spray with cotton extract that gives lightweight care, shine, fullness and light control.)
Two summer accessories (striped blanket and fruit infused water bottle) that will help you to enjoy a sunbath in style and stay hydrated.
To participate in the contest, please send me an e-mail with your postal address and the header «WELLA» to . All entries must be received until June 4, 2018. No purchase or payment of any kind is necessary to enter or win this contest. By entering this contest, entrants accept and agree to be bound by these official rules.
Good luck and cheers! By the way, I like to fill my water bottle with fresh lemon and basil leaves… such a refreshing and healthy drink!
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
MIU MIU’s woven basket bag
is the perfect summer companion. Classic with a little retro touch, it’s embroidered with the label’s logo, topped with vibrant red, blue and black-striped grosgrain handles, and fitted with a zipped pocket at the canvas-lined interior.
My own limited edition woven basket from Cannes (there was only one, sorry :-)!).
If you want to prove your true jet-setting spirit, look for one of the limited edition versions that MIU MIU has launched in small quantities for some of their shops around the globe. A red tag is attached to the bag that indicates the location where you bought it.
Limited edition woven basket that is still available in MIU MIU’s newly opened St. Tropez boutique.
Those limited editions are available at the following MIU MIU stores around the globe: Madrid, Barcelona, Capri, Porto Cervo, Forte dei Marmi, Cannes, St. Tropez, Miami and Hawaii.
My personal summer essentials: Woven basket bag, frayed St. Tropez embroidered straw sunhat
, and suede platform sandals, all by MIU MIU.
The perfect pieces to breeze effortless style from town to beach and back again.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: first one courtesy of Matchesfashion, all others © Sandra Bauknecht