Sandra‘s Closet

I was thrilled to hear about the appointment of Pierpaolo Piccioli as the new creative director of Balenciaga. Having had the chance to meet him personally, I was deeply impressed not only by his creative vision but also by his warmth and humility. His work at Valentino was nothing short of exceptional — poetic, elegant, and deeply human.

I loved Valentino under Pierpaolo.

With a career spanning over two decades, Pierpaolo began as an accessories designer at Fendi before joining Valentino in 1999. He rose to become co-creative director alongside Maria Grazia Chiuri, and later took the helm as sole creative director in 2016. Under his leadership, Valentino embraced a romantic, emotionally resonant aesthetic that combined timeless beauty with a strong message of inclusivity and humanity.

With Pierpaolo Picciolli and Maria Grazia Chiuri in 2013.

Balenciaga, on the other hand, has long stood for radical innovation, architectural silhouettes, and a provocative spirit. Founded by Cristóbal Balenciaga — a true master of form and construction — the house has never been afraid to challenge norms and push boundaries. It is today owned by the Kering Group.

Balenciaga S/S 2025 Campaign 

Pierpaolo’s arrival marks a fascinating and bold shift. It’s not only a meeting of two strong creative identities — it’s also likely a turning point for Balenciaga itself. After years of dominating the streetwear conversation under the leadership of Demna, who is heading to Gucci, and pushing shock-value aesthetics, this move could signal the end of that era. With Piccioli, we may see a return to emotion, craftsmanship, and elegance — a more refined and soulful vision of luxury.

I believe this is a powerful, forward-thinking decision and an exciting new chapter for both Piccioli and the house of Balenciaga.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and © Balenciaga
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A touch of lace, a whisper of dreams. For last week’s bridal-themed MY STYLE ROCKS episode, I stepped into a gown that once waited patiently for its moment. Today, it shines under a different kind of spotlight — one that celebrates style, strength, and a little bit of magic. Sometimes, dresses find their destiny in unexpected places.

As worn in Gala Episode 62 «Wedding» on MY STYLE ROCKS Season 2.

My look: Ruffled bridal dress and matching lace garter with blue bow, and veil with feathers, all by Christopher Kane, long daisy leaf clyster earrings by Simone Rocha, printed metallic leather box clutch by Dolce & Gabbana, and white silk pumps with crystals by Saint Laurent.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @kazmva0
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Channeling timeless romance in a flowy floral dress and a statement headpiece – because sometimes fashion should feel like a love story.

Worn in Episode 59 of MY STYLE ROCKS Season 2.

My look: Eden flounce floral lace-trimmed silk gown by Zimmermann, gold-tone and resin necklace by Chloé, headpiece with bow and embellished heart sunglasses, both by Gucci, Toy crystal-embellished suede pumps by Loewe, and In-The-Loup 18 bag in Mauve Sylvestre by Hermès.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @kazmva0
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Futuristic gala mode at MY STYLE ROCKS: activated. Channeling cosmic chic with a NASA-inspired jacket that’s ready for lift-off. Space age meets runway rage—because fashion should always shoot for the stars.

As worn in Episode 56 of MY STYLE ROCKS Season 2.

My look: Space oversized appliquéd quilted distressed shell jacket, and mirrored sunglasses , both by Balenciaga, Emoji embellished cotton tank top by Coperni, faux-leather hooded gloves by Courrèges, high-rise extra long leggings in silver by Dolce & Gabbana, Tempest 170mm platform pumps by Versace, and Twister small metallic leather tote by JW Anderson.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @kazmva0
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Softness meets strength — embracing the balletcore trend with a touch of elegance and edge. Tulle, satin, and grace in every step.

I wore this look yesterday in Episode 54 of My Style Rocks Season 2.

My look: Tulle corset dress by Zimmermann, Frilly Tutu Mini canvas shoulder bag by Simone Rocha, Cassia 100 bow-detailed grosgrain-trimmed satin-crepe pumps by Christian Louboutin, silver-tone, crystal and faux pearl necklace by Alessandra Rich, and Rosamund silk-faille headband by Jennifer Behr.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @kazmva0
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Tonight at MY STYLE ROCKS, we dive into the world of rhythm and style, bringing this spirit to life on the runway! Under the motto Dancing Night, I got inspired by the iconic energy of Dirty Dancing. When fashion is taking center stage, i’s all about freedom, passion, and bold movement.

My look: Belted embroidered metallic tulle midi dress by Monique Lhuillier, Rabakate 100 bow-embellished suede pumps by Christian Louboutin, Dirty Dancing embroidered appliquéd canvas clutch by Olympia Le-Tan, crystal-embellished fringe necklace by Alessandra Rich, and Aveline satin headband by Jimmy Choo.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @kazmva0
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There’s something magical about the first warm days of the year — feeling the sun on your skin, seeing nature bloom, and simply enjoying the beauty around us. Switzerland has been especially stunning lately, and I’m thankful for every moment here before heading back to Istanbul for work. Even after challenging times, spring reminds us that new beginnings are always possible.

My look: Double-breasted leather coat in pink, and mid-rise skinny jeans, both by Valentino, Speed 2.0 knitted sneakers, and slap bracelet, both by Balenciaga, 2020 mini classic flap belt bag, large classic flap bag in caviar leather, chain earrings with logo, embellished sunglasses, and black and pink N°5 tank top (Look 34, S/S 2021), Denim Hotfix Embellished Overshirt, all by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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Here are the most important S/S 2025 trends to wear now. From the surprisingly practical to the utterly fabulous, here’s how to update your wardrobe for the new season, that is defined by fluidity, lightness, and bold self-expression. Sheer layers, sculptural tailoring, and relaxed suiting dominate the runways, paired with soft metallics and sun-faded pastels. Craftsmanship takes center stage, with handwoven textures, and delicate embroidery weaving a story of authenticity. Sustainability and innovation intertwine, with designers embracing upcycled materials and futuristic fabrications, creating a fresh, conscious aesthetic for a new generation.

Have fun and enjoy this fashionable fun summer!

LoL, Sandra

A welcome clash. A shiny couture-like evening dress meets the timeless anorak. A perfect balance of sophistication and practicality.

A sorbet palette of baby pink, layette blue, aqua hues and of course the must-have summer color buttercup yellow sets the tone for airy and light silhouettes.

Plaid to be trending in spring is pretty…unusual. The print – which is defined as a checkered pattern with alternating stripes in different bands of colour – tends to dominate in the cooler seasons but was all over the catwalk for S/S 2025.

More romantic than ever, boho-chic is back with lashings of lace and, especially, ruffles that flutter with every movement.

Forget seeing double: The one-leg pants trend is making waves in fashion, featuring one fully covered leg and the other bare or minimally covered, blending bold asymmetry with edgy streetwear aesthetics.

It’s the Y2K trend that has been gaining traction for the last few seasons, and remains the easiest styling trick for bringing your wardrobe right up to date – layering up skirts or dresses over your trousers.

Across the catwalks, we saw pleated skirts dominate in shades of navy and grey, reminding us of our school uniforms, just with an elevated twist.

Balletcore is serving soft elegance—think pastels, wrap tops, tutus, and ballerina vibes all day.

When sport and wellness set the tone for everyday dress, designers take a couture turn, kicking off a new fashionable sport session.

From stripes to swimwear, get ready for a new TikTok fashion trend. This season, we’re dressing for a yacht girl summer.

The ladylike silhouette, with a rebellious twist. The true values of elegance are back in a revisited bougie version. In 2025, retro-chic means lavallière ties, pussy bows and polka dots.

Gender play in fashion challenges norms with fluid and oversized silhouettes, unexpected pairings, and a fearless mix of traditionally masculine and feminine styles.

Roaring prints evoke rebellion; it doesn’t matter wether it’s zebra or python effects, or pink flamingo prints, it’s all about embracing the total look and wearing it with confidence.

The versatile boiler suit is so easy to dress up or down and a must this summer.

Pop art by the photographer Greg Girard, celestial phenomena by the French artist Laurent Grasso, and Sandro Botticelli’s unmissable Portrait of Dante: When art slips into the wardrobe, a creative dialogue is sure to follow.

Fringing is always around in some form or another but this season, the detail was inescapable, seen in the collections of almost every major brand.

And yet here we are, talking about how trends that came to be over 100 years ago are still making waves and sending hearts aflutter a century later. The ’20s flapper girls are back!

When it comes getting a message across, T-shirts have the last word. A wardrobe staple.

A boudoir aesthetic (on acid) plays the card of conceal and reveal. An ostentatious take on iconic underwear staples takes sensuality to another level.

Romantic ruffles show big drama at night time.

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands
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Stepping into the timeless elegance of the Presidential Suite at the Four Seasons Firenze, I couldn’t imagine a more perfect backdrop to showcase one of this season’s most vibrant trends: buttercup yellow. Bathed in natural light and surrounded by historic grandeur, my look captures the spirit of spring’s joyful energy. This buttercup yellow gown, a true statement of optimism and modern glamour, feels right at home in such a breathtaking setting.

My look: Crystal-embellished tulle cape and strapless ruched tulle gown, both by Monique Lhuillier, printed metallic leather box clutch by Dolce & Gabbana, Tribute sandals in silver python by Saint Laurent, wide cuff with CC logo by CHANEL, crystal-embellished necklace and long earrings, both by Miu Miu.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Today, we travel around the world at MY STYLE ROCKS and I am taking all aboard for a stylish stop in Switzerland! Wrapped in this fabulous Moschino creation, I’m celebrating everything we love about this beautiful country — from rich chocolate and creamy cheese to precision watches, charming cows, and breathtaking green landscapes. Where tradition meets trend, and every detail tells a story of excellence.

Gala Episode 46 «Travel the World» of MY STYLE ROCKS Season 2

My look: Long printed gown, white tulle petticoat skirt, barn bag, (Look 6 – F/W 2021) and, watch clip-on earrings, all by Moschino, and Angel leather platform sandals by Gucci.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @kazmva0
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.