Sandra‘s Closet

Here is your guide to master the huge sweatshirt trend for F/W 2013 with no sweat. The style set can’t get enough of this season’s cool comfy tops. Tap fashion’s slogan sweatshirt craze or go for a floral or embellished version. Highlight a print by wearing skinny pants and sneakers. The great thing about those novelty sweatshirts is that you can also upgrade them with a sexy skirt and a pair of heels. And don’t forget, grey is the colour to think about first!

Personally speaking, I am crazy for this amazing cloud-print cotton-jersey sweatshirt by Kenzo and the black cotton sweatshirt with colourful ‘brain’ print by Christopher Kane.

FLORAL
1 Beta oversized cotton-blend fleece sweatshirt by ACNE
2 Silk sateen-paneled jersey sweatshirt by Markus Lupfer
3 Embroidered cotton sweatshirt by Matthew Williamson

ANIMAL PRINTS
4 Bird-flocked cotton sweatshirt by McQ Alexander McQueen
5 Quilted jersey sweatshirt with eagle motif by Stella McCartney
6 Horsing Around cotton sweatshirt by J.Crew

SLOGAN
7 Riot cotton-blend terry sweatshirt by Zoe Karssen
8 Jonker cotton-jersey sweatshirt by Karl Lagerfeld
9 Féline cotton-blend jersey sweatshirt by Brian Lichtenberg

EMBELLISHMENTS
10 Embellished cotton-jersey sweatshirt by Markus Lupfer
11 Embellished olive green cotton-jersey sweatshirt by Lanvin
12 Sopo crystal-embellished cotton-jersey sweatshirt by TNTees

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the brands, Style, © Splash, © Sandra Bauknecht

Yesterday, I went to the Rive Gauche Summer Party at the Hotel Baur au Lac in Zurich. It was a cabaret theme party and guests were entertained by astonishing shows and live acts.

My look: Embroidered tulle top, trompe l’oeil shoes with lace socks and gold-plated Swarovski crystal clip earrings, all by Dolce & Gabbana, mini knit skirt by Alexander McQueen, bag with cuff by Chloé, stay-ups ‘Twenties’ by Wolford and ring ‘Mitzah’ by Dior Haute Joaillerie.
On my nails: 593 Rose Moiré by Chanel.

LoL, Sandra

All event photos: © David Biedert Photography – all outfit photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

The symbols of good fortune that Gabrielle Chanel loved most inspire fall’s enchanting colour collection SUPERSTITION DE CHANEL. In vibrant shades from coral to intense pink, new LE BLUSH CRÈME DE CHANEL sets off sumptuous khaki tones of eyeshadow, mascara and polish. Coordinating lipsticks seamlessly pair with the new blush for a playful colour match.

CREATION EXCLUSIVE – LE TEINT
Le Blush Crème de CHANEL

This innovative powder-cream formula offers an enticing new way to blush with sheer yet vibrant pigments for instant luminosity. The silky texture offers a long-wear satin finish – soft and comfortable for every skin type – and is simple to apply with fingertips or brush.

Destiny (61), Présage (62), Révélation (63), Inspiration (64), Affinité (65) and Fantastic (66)
CHF 54.00

LES LEVRES
Rouge Coco Shine

This innovative formula with intensified pigments takes colour and sheen to a new level of vibrancy. Sheer, shiny, colour-rich shades are effortlessly chic, infinitely wearable. Hydratendre Complex softens and plumps lips for a healthier, fuller appearance.

Secret (85), Instinct (86), Rendez-vous (87) and Esprit (88)
CHF 46.00

Rouge Coco

A modern interpretation of classic creme lip colour as an homage to the rich life and legacy of ‘Coco’ Chanel. Lightweight lip colour glides on for easy application, and features a Hydratendre complex to help soften, soothe and condition lips – even boosting their ability to hold in moisture – for a plumper, smoother and healthier-looking appearance.

Icône (55) and Mystique (57)
CHF 46.00

LE REGARD
Ombre Essentielle

An instant CHANEL classic, this ultra-fine powder eyeshadow is sensuous in feel, foolproof in its application, and fabulous in its range of matte, satin and shimmer finishes. The versatile formula can be applied dry for subtle shading, or dampened for more intense colour – and the complementary shades can be blended with one another to lighten or deepen tone.

Hasard (99) and Gri-Gri (101)
CHF 43.00

LE REGARD
Les 4 Ombres

One essential compact offers unlimited eye looks, with shade combinations that range from matte to satin to shimmer. Versatile smudge-proof formula can be applied dry for subtle shading, or dampened for more intense colour, all with long-wearing results – in even extreme climates.

Mystère (43)
CHF 77.00

Stylo Yeux Waterproof

Waterproof, smudge-proof eyeliner delivers long-lasting definition with a twist of the wrist: Colour winds up when you need it, winds down when you don’t. Gentle, soft, silicone-enriched formula delivers smooth, even lining. A built-in sharpener at the opposite end detaches for quick refreshes.

Khaki Précieux (40)
CHF 35.00

Mascara Le Volume de CHANEL

This high-precision mascara achieves instant volume and intensely lush colour in a single stroke. Its innovative formula expands, plumping lashes to their fullest. The exclusive new ‘Snowflakes’ brush combines long and short bristles to deliver an extreme, eye-opening effect.

Khaki Bronze (40)
CHF 47.00

LES ONGLES
Le Vernis

Classic and trend-defining shades from the runways of Paris. State-of-the-art formula strengthens and moisturizes nails as it delivers long-wearing, high-shine, chip-resistant colour. Applies evenly without streaking.

Elixir (589), Alchimie (591) and Mysterious (601)
CHF 35.00

In Switzerland in stores end of August 2013.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Chanel

Live free, fast and strong. Live 1000 lives but know that you only have one.

“Dream as if you’ll live forever.
Live as if you’ll die today.”
James Dean

Dior Homme. A composition that rocked the world, daring fresh boldness and surprise. An olfactory shock in true Dior style, changing habits and transcending norms. It is amazing how many interpretations it contains. A fragrance with 1000 faces, a stunning array of possibilities: A masculine Iris, the shock of opposites attracting. A faintly animal iris that expounds a sensual, sexy feel, accompanied by leather and wood to re-orchestrate virile accords. Amber and spices exude but do not invade, as though saying: “Follow me, it’s up to you.” No doubt about it, I will follow. I love this scent so much, it is so extremely sexy on a man.

Robert Pattinson is the face of the new campaign, shot by Romain Gavras. Below you can find some exclusive behind the scenes photos.

“Dior Homme eschews every masculine cliché. It explores a new virility, immediate yet complex.” François Demachy

DIOR HOMME
Masculine, Woody, Spicy Iris

Top notes: Calabrian Bergamot, Guatemalan Cardamom and Vaucluse Lavender
Middle notes: Tuscan Iris and Absolute Amber
Base notes: Virginia Cedarwood and Haitian Vetiver

Signature

A dimly lit dressing room. Costumes scattered on the floor, sequins and feathers. She has stubbed out her cigarette and removes her make-up, peering at her reflection in the neon-lit mirror. Conceal the shadows, pile on smoky eyes and flaming red lips. Overdo it, wear a mask to make believe it’s not really you, half-naked in this hopeless dive. A sharp intake of breath, she stops her handiwork…

He could be there, just behind the door. Among the fumes of stale tobacco she catches the scent that she loved on his neck, a delicious blend of wood and flowers. Gentle but virile. Tender-hearted Narcissus. This fragrance is her life. Leading her a merry dance.

“Little Bastard” or “Gentleman”: she doesn’t care. His signature is to do as he likes. She fixes her hair, a sad look on her face. Smoothes it listlessly, twists a few curls. Her heart isn’t in it. The tears well. Suddenly, the sillage swells, she smells the scent of spices and lavender in a musk and amber embrace. Her head reels, giddy. He appears, out of nowhere. She smiles at him in the mirror. Life. Goes on.

Dior Homme Fragrance Collection
For every day in your life, for all the lives you have!

Dior Homme
Wear Dior Homme like a tailored suit. This unique woody, aromatic signature trails in your wake. The surprising notes she loves to nuzzle at your neck. A sexy appeal, rigorous and sharp yet disarmingly casual. Feel effortlessly elegant. Sensual, supple and free.

Dior Homme EDT spray 50ml (CHF 95.00), 100ml (CHF 130.00) and 150ml  (CHF 156.00)

Dior Homme Intense
The noble sophistication of a strong, potent signature. Giddy with love. Wood and Amber draw you in. Intense Iris joins the fray, exudes her powerful charm. A physical signature whose sillage entices. Shrouding the lapel of a cashmere coat, designed to be embraced. For a Prince of the night with enigmatic charm.

Dior Homme Intense EDP spray 50ml (CHF 104.50), 100ml (CHF 143.00) and 150ml (CHF 172.00)

Dior Homme Sport
A convertible speeds along an empty beach. An outdoor fragrance that plays on perfect jeans and a sexy T-shirt, the perfect fit. Like a rush of freedom, on the road. The vibrant woody freshness of the sillage hooks you in.

Dior Homme Sport EDT spray 50ml (CHF 95.00), 100ml (CHF 130.00) and 150ml (CHF 156.00)

Dior Homme Cologne
Clear and radical, it envelops with a musky citrus signature. Sheer elegance. The sillage states the casual charm of a classic white shirt. Unostentatious but stylish. Elegance in broad daylight: a fragrance for the skin, for you.

Dior Homme COLOGNE EDT spray 75ml (CHF 104.50) and 125ml (CHF 143.00)

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Dior

In June 2013, the Coca-Cola Company launched in Argentina its first soda that is said to be naturally sweetened with sugar and stevia: COCA-COLA LIFE.

The product can be seen above sporting a green label and is packaged in the award-winning PlantBottle™ that is constructed of 30 percent plant material and is fully recyclable. The new drink contains 54 calories per 300ml, a 60% reduction compared to the classic Coke.

For the time being, it is only available in the South American country and it is still unknown if it will be launched elsewhere in the future.

Personally speaking, I am a Coke Zero addict and drink a lot of it. Of course, I would be over the moon to consume a “healthier” version of my favourite drink. But drinking sugar or high fructose corn syrup – even that it is less – is still kind of absurd. On the other hand, what does this new launch say about the other Coca-Cola drinks?!

What do you think about the green label? I don’t find the bottle appealing at all and prefer my Diet Coke without calories well-dressed in Marc Jacobs. Cheers!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Coca-Cola and © Sandra Bauknecht

This morning, I attended a press conference at Jelmoli in Zurich to explore the house’s unique shop concept called SAHLING Düfte and to hear more about the newest fragrance launch of Penhaligon’s London: IRIS PRIMA.

In a unique partnership with English National Ballet, the new scent was created by famous perfumer Alberto Morillas to capture the very essence of ballet.

As most of you know, I have been dancing ballet all my life (here you see me with my daughter) and I had immediately my very own ideas how to put all those amazing things about classical dance in one bottle. From the costumes, to the sets on stage, the theatre make-up and the elegant rehearsal rooms, there are many aspects to consider.

At today’s press conference with Kris Dembinski, Head of Global Sales Penhaligon’s London.
(If you like my look, please click here for the details.)

Kris told me that it took one and a half year to develop this amazing new scent. During the process, they met with ballet dancers, went backstage, watched how they prepare themselves, their dedication and passion. The British brand even decided to sponsor two dancers to give them the chance to develop their skills even more.

FLORAL WOODY MUSK

Top notes: Bergamot, pink pepper and amber
Middle notes: Iris absolute, Arabian jasmine, hedione and paradisione
Base notes: Leather, sandalwood, vetiver, amber, vanilla and benzoin

Eau de Parfum 50ml (CHF 180.00) and 100ml (CHF 250.00).

If you are in Zurich, pay a visit to Jelmoli’s new corner, it is absolutely worth it. The retro-style apothecary furniture is a wonderful backdrop to shop luxurious fragrances.

Besides Penhaligon’s, Sahling Düfte carries Juliette Has a Gun, Annick Goutal, Il Profvmo, Etro and Amouage.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Penhaligon’s London and © Sandra Bauknecht

Coco Chanel once said: “Luxury must ne comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury…”. Wishful thinking and not always true – unfortunately.

Fashion weeks are approaching and I start slowly getting myself organized for some stylish but comfortable outfits in which I can run around the whole day and look good at the same time.

Here you see today’s shopping obsession: Tiger-intarsia knitted sweater by Kenzo, stretch-leather skinny pants by The Row, Emile textured-leather tote by Alexander Wang (love its rose gold-finished design) and black leather ankle boot with metal chain by Givenchy (one of the hottest shoes of the season).

My notes and my iPhone should look stylish as well with the runway textured-leather notebook by Smythson and the chain-embellished cover by Moschino.

I will finish off the look with some statement nails and vibrant lips: Giddy Kipper nail polish by Butter London and Persistence matte lip color by Kevin Aucoin.

LoL, Sandra

Something for my Swiss and German based readers: 
The September issue of SI Style magazine featuring my monthly column is available now. This time, I am telling you all about my trip through China. If you like my outfit, have a look at this previous post. If you haven’t followed my adventure, you could do so now by clicking on the tiny photos below to be transferred directly to each post, have fun!

LoL, Sandra

Launched in 2011, the Boy CHANEL bag has become an recognizable House creation and its status as such, is set to last. For the CHANEL F/W 2013 collection Karl Lagerfeld has reinterpreted its design with a resolutely modern and supple version.

Quilted or smooth, the flap is animated by a graphic contrasting effect with an overstitched or quilted braiding. Forever faithful to its codes, the chain strap and the Boy lock, the handbag is available in four sizes from a mini version to a maxi bag.

In shades of black, pearl grey and white, there’s a distinct contrast with the deep nuances of brick red, lead green and bright petrol blue.

In addition to the smooth or patent calfskin and the exotic alligator and python skins, it also exists in two aged goatskins, one iridescent and the other with graduated shading.

Another variation has a smooth leather or tweed flap and comes with four different sized link chains, emphasising the Boy CHANEL’s definitive rock’n’roll allure.

I love this Boy and need it in my closet. My object of desire for F/W 2013, perfect to complement my edgy and punk-inspired looks for the next season. 
Available in CHANEL boutiques from September 2013.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Chanel

I am very happy to reveal my new project: Starting this fall, I will be guest blogging for Marionnaud Switzerland. Those posts will be published in German and French and I will be showing you on a regular basis some of my beauty must-haves.

Thank you, Marionnaud, for the lovely introduction in the recent magazine!

LoL, Sandra

If you like my look, please click here.
Photo of me: Christian Dietrich