Sandra‘s Closet

Separate from the traditional seasonal collection releases is the latest series in Balenciaga’s brand – It’s A Different Campaign. The assortment boasts the likings of unconventional proportions, melded archetypes and homages to the typical silhouettes. Among the featured items are the Rodeo Bag and the Collector Rodeo Bag, along with a distressed Sock-On-Heel and Cargo Sneakers in silver and gold accents.

Collector Rodeo Bag and Rodeo Bag (S/S 2024)

Tape Bracelet (F/W 2024)

Personally speaking, Balenciaga is now like a new kind of Moschino, sporting this tongue-in-cheek humor I adore in fashion. Demna Gvasalia takes it even up a notch by selling polyester and daily appliances for a lot of money, such as the tape bracelet spotted on the F/W 2024 runway that is said to cost around $3300 and that has had the internet roaring. It is merely the latest in Balenciaga’s long, proud, provocative tradition.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Balenciaga / Instagram
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F1 Arcade has arrived in the USA with Boston being the first spot to experience all the excitement, drama, and glamour of Formula 1 and Washington D.C later in the year. In Europe, you can find the experience in London and Birmingham.

However, if you find yourself hoping over the pond, I recommend visiting the US venue in the Boston Seaport district. F1 Arcade is a thrilling new simulation racing experience, and probably the only place in the world where you can get drunk driving. Not that I recommend this, but here you can bar, dine and race at once.

Featuring full-motion racing simulators, typical American food and a selection of enticing drinks, this is truly unrivaled social gaming. Racing is thirsty work. You can grab a much-needed pit stop at the really cool cocktail bar, that is featuring an impressive list of vintage Champagne cocktails. So, Anouk and I decided not to wait any longer and assemble our pit crew, grab a cocktail, and take the wheel of an F1 simulator for an electrifying experience we’ll never forget.

To book your racing experience, click here please.

F1 ARCADE SEAPORT DISTRICT
87 Pier 4 Blvd Boston MA 02210 United States

Even the restrooms match the theme and feature different light installations of race tracks in every cabin.

Racers, start your engines!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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TAG Heuer is bringing the TAG Heuer Formula 1 back with the singular American lifestyle brand Kith in new, upgraded materials. Kith (sometimes stylized as KITH) was established in New York City in 2011 by Ronnie Fieg.

The duo is embarking on a cutting-edge collaboration to reintroduce the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Series 1 originally released in 1986. The new collection of timepieces features the beloved TAG Heuer Formula 1 in 10 bold colourways inspired by standout models from TAG Heuer’s past. Alongside Kith, TAG Heuer is reintroducing an ‘80s icon built on strong design codes and standout colours.

In a groundbreaking move, for the first time in TAG Heuer’s illustrious history, the luxury Swiss watchmaker is merging its logo with a collaborative partner. TAG Heuer Formula 1 | Kith features a reworked version of the insignia that combines Kith and Heuer on the dial, rubber strap, and caseback.

With the original TAG Heuer Formula 1, TAG Heuer helped countless collectors fall in love with watches. Now, they are invited to become infatuated with this distinctive, incredibly stylish model all over again.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © TAG Heuer
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Boston weather can be quite challenging. On Sunday, it was chilly and rainy on my daughter’s graduation. The next day, I woke up to the most beautiful sunny weather and decided to wear my new silk dress made from sustainable organic silk from the Chloé x Atelier Jolie collection for a walk around the Public Garden.

My look: Organic silk crepe de chine maxi dress by Chloé x Atelier Jolie, Jodie knotted leather tote by Bottega Veneta, dark brown suede sandals by Aquazzura, choker and medallion necklace, both by CHANEL (S/S 2023 Pre-collection).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Anouk Bauknecht
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Welcome to the new Dubai wellness haven: the Dior Spa The Lana. Opening its doors in spring 2024, it is the first Dior Spa in the UAE. Being a place of incomparable beauty and exceptionally soothing treatments, it is an exquisite sanctuary of holistic wellbeing infused with a visionary spirit and the Dorchester Collection’s latest gem.

Bathed with natural daylight on the hotel’s 29th floor, with floor-to-ceiling windows that artfully frame views of iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, Dior Spa The Lana provides an unprecedented wellbeing experience with five treatment rooms and one couple’s suite. Seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology into treatments, featuring Icoone Therapy, Hydrafacial, Dior Micro-Abrasion, and the Dior Skin Light LED therapy mask, which is renowned for its ability to promote intense cell regeneration, the spa also offers a futon for Japanese-inspired treatments, and a dedicated beauty room. Each cocoon possesses distinctive characteristics, adeptly adapting to the unique desires of every guest while upholding an unwavering commitment to privacy.

Elevating the experience further, Iyashi Dôme technology introduces customisable sauna sessions, providing both relaxation and slimming effects. This is complemented by an impressive array of facial treatments thoughtfully curated for men and a personalised programme of hand and foot treatments.

Three signature treatments will be exclusive to The Lana, including Escale at The Lana, Dior Stone Therapy and D-Sculpt.

Escale is a tribute to the inaugural Dior Spa set ‘amongst the clouds’. This unique Japanese-inspired ritual defies the laws of gravity, inviting guests to unwind on a futon on the floor, where a fusion of traditional techniques and innovative relation methods embrace both body and mind. The treatment seamlessly blends kneading, friction and percussion and full body stretching. Deep, slow, and unforgettable massage strokes traverse from head to toe, releasing muscle and joint tensions to foster a sense of tranquillity. The final touch involves a precise, sensorial sequence of massage movements transporting guests to a realm of ultimate relaxation.

For a truly refined experience, guests can delve into the Dior Stone Therapy treatment. This sophisticated massage harmonises energy flow with meticulous attention, utilising semi-precious stones strategically placed on the body. The indulgence extends with facial micro-abrasion, employing sapphire crystals while the skin revels in the rejuvenating glow of the Dior Skin Light led therapy mask.

D-Sculpt, a body massage with firming and slimming properties, skillfully combines the traditional benefits of wood, dry brushing and toning techniques, with those of the manual «skin lift» method, offering anti-cellulite effects.

The Lana and the Dior Spa, which stays faithful to the vision of iconic French designer who had a special relationship with Dorchester Collection’s Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris, home of Dior Spa Plaza Athénée, will work closely together to craft personalised well-being escapes for each guest, tailored to their desires, needs and preferences. From a memorable half-day experience combining cocktails, lunch, as well as a sports session and treatment, to a full day journey where the hotel’s Rolls-Royce collects guests to ensure a seamless transition from their preferred location to and from the hotel, The Lana will take wellbeing to new heights.

Dior Spa The Lana will also present an elegant boutique showcasing Dior’s product lines including Dior Prestige, renowned for its creams, serums, and face lotions infused with Rose de Granville, L’Or de Vie, a Dior skincare ritual featuring anti-aging skincare creations, Rouge Premier, the quintessence of haute couture lipstick and La Collection Privée Christian Dior, a luxurious line of Dior’s unisex fragrances.

For more information or to make a booking, please visit the website.

Photos: Courtesy of Pierre Mouton © DIOR
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Fine, delicate, and imperceptible formulas that become one with the skin. Simple, free, and intuitive application. With LES BEIGES by CHANEL, recreate a radiant healthy glow, as if you had spent the day in the great outdoors.

LIGHT CHANGES, BUT RADIANCE STAYS
The new LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW SUN-KISSED POWDER, featuring fresh, energizing shades, offers a radiant complexion no matter the season.

HEALTHY GLOW SUN-KISSED POWDER PLAY WITH LIGHT AND COLOR
A trio of shades that can be worn individually or blended, designed to illuminate your face, warm up your complexion, and bring out the color in your cheeks. Its fine, silky formula leaves behind a veil of light. A sun-kissed healthy glow effect that lasts up to 8 hours, as if you had spent the day in the great outdoors. Flawless and tailor-made, all year round. A generously sized creation presented in the rounded square case that is emblematic of CHANEL.

EACH HARMONY CONSISTS OF 3 LUMINOUS SHADES:
One bronzer – One blush – One highlighter

LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW SUN-KISSED POWDER Poudre Belle Mine Ensoleillée CHF 105.-
5 teintes
Light Coral / Medium Coral / Deep Rose Gold /
Deep Mauve / Medium Rose Gold

LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW FOUNDATION HYDRATION AND LONGWEAR

RADIANCE MORE NATURAL THAN EVEN NATURE COULD CREATE
A moisturizing and protective 90% skincare-based product whose imperceptible formula, infused with jasmine extract, offers a radiant complexion in any light. After 1 month of use, skin appears twice as radiant.

LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW FOUNDATION HYDRATION AND LONGWEAR Teint Belle Mine Ensoleillée CHF 72.-
This fluid foundation is available now in 42 shades.

All products will be available from Mid May 2024.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © CHANEL
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When the irresistible iridescent finish of Huile Prodigieuse® Or meets the uplifting floral notes of Huile Prodigieuse® Florale, the result is the new gem of French pharmacy: Huile Prodigieuse® Or Florale. Discover the era of a new shimmering rosegold glow that beautifies all skin types while infusing them with the benefits of the iconic dry oil.

Radiant appeal: each and every one can choose their own desired glow, with 2 products that perfectly adapt to all skin types and complexions. Both shimmery ‘Or’ oils provide a different finish: the new iridescent rosegold glow of Huile Prodigieuse® Or Florale has cooler highlights that subtly lift the skin, perfect to freshen the complexion, for example. Huile Prodigieuse® Or contains golden pearly particles with warmer tones to create an iridescent golden glow that beautifies all skin types and enhances a tan.

HOW TO USE
Indulge in the irresistible new floral gold to moisturize, smooth and illuminate your face, body and hair in a single step.

Face
You can use these oils as part of your make-up, to give your skin an instant illuminating boost. Dab a few drops gently over your face using your fingertips or a flat brush. Focus on areas that capture the light, such as the top of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose or the middle of your forehead.

Body
Pour a few drops of golden oil into the palms of your hands or onto a kabuki brush and distribute evenly. Apply as a veil to your legs or as highlights on key points (shoulders, collarbones, décolleté…), its iridescent finish will give your body a beautiful glow all day or all night long.

Hair
Scrunch a few drops into the lengths and sprinkle sparingly over the ends to create pretty highlights that blend into your hair.

Often copied, never rivalled, skin is satin smooth and beautiful. Its dry touch allows you to get dressed quickly after application and its finish on the skin makes the senses melt with pleasure. The uplifting notes of Huile Prodigieuse® Or Florale include zesty Grapefruit, a luminous floral harmony of Orange Blossom/Magnolia and a velvety base of white Musk to create an irresistibly fragrant trail. I love it!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Nuxe
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Since its inception in 1978, Versace stands for female sensuality for the modern woman. With a palette of fresh pastels and callbacks to previous collections, this season expands on the house’s iconic signatures, that I have always been a fan of like this beautiful ensemble in sky blue.

My look: 1978 Re-Edition logo-embroidered jumper, check-effect wool-blend tweed mini, La Medusa crystal-embellished mini bag, Medusa Aevitas embellished satin platform sandals, and Medusa-plaque satin headband, all by Versace, Horsebit blue topaz diamond white gold ring by Gucci Fine Jewellery, fishnet tights with Swarovski crystals by Calzedonia, and Oyster Perpetual 36 with turquoise dial by Rolex.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Felicia Sewerinsson @feliciasewerinsson
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The Louis Vuitton Pre-fall 2024 collection is being presented on April 18, 2024 at the Long Museum in Shanghai, which was founded by husband-and-wife collectors Mr. Liu Yiqian and Ms. Wang Wei, and is named for its elongated funnel shape. The largest private museum in China, it holds the country’s richest collection, including traditional, modern and contemporary Chinese art, Chinese revolutionary art, and contemporary works from Asia, Europe and the United States.

On the occasion of the first Voyager Show, the House reveals a vibrant collaboration with artist Sun Yitian. Known for her photorealistic paintings of toys and other mass-produced objects, she has collaborated on an exclusive series that colourfully animates the Pre-fall 2024 collection, spanning ready-to-wear, leather goods, trunks, accessories and fragrances.

Born in 1991 in Zhejiang, China, Sun Yitian lives and works in Beijing. She has been presented in solo exhibitions at galleries in Paris, Berlin, Hong Kong and Shanghai. Throughout her work, she explores the tension between «Made in China» mass production and artistic value, bringing items that may initially seem unremarkable or of little value into the context of galleries and museums. For her first collaboration with a luxury Maison, her work is further transposed to wearable pieces, introducing the element of savoir faire. Sun Yitian imagined toy-like animals including a pink rabbit, yellow duck, spotted dog, leopard, zebra, penguin and swan. They interact playfully with iconic and everyday pieces as the latest collectible series in which contemporary artists bring their distinct world to the universe of Louis Vuitton.

«The connection between paintings on a canvas and the viewer is somewhat static and silent, a form of observation with a certain distance. However, when my artworks are translated into clothing, bags, or perfumes, they become much closer to people, and this interaction is lively and unpredictable. It creates an equal relationship of use,» says Sun Yitian.

The process involved discussions between Sun Yitian and the Louis Vuitton where creativity across different materials and techniques manifested into design. Extra-large and subtly whimsical, her artwork makes a bold statement as prints or embroidery on ready-to-wear that complements Pre-fall 2024 silhouettes by Nicolas Ghesquière, Louis Vuitton Artistic Director of Women’s Collections. Whether a cheerful leopard grinning on a petal pink coat or skirt; the duck in profile on a sky-blue hooded windbreaker; or an inflatable rabbit with Monogram flower eyes filling the front of an A-line dress or T-shirt, the looks signal bright, youthful energy.

With the addition of Sun Yitian’s animals, signature bags are reinterpreted in ‘Animogram’ canvas. From a zebra on the Alma in Epi calfskin to the duck and its shadow atop the On The Go tote in reverse varnished calfskin, each animal is paired with a key shape. Another version involves highly crafted animal coin purses associated with a specific bag and colour base such as the rabbit coin purse paired with a Noé in glossy white Monogram leather. New to the Pre-fall collection is the Mini Square Trunk, a handheld, hard-sided design that features either the dog in smooth calfskin or the leopard in grained leather, both with colourful quilted interiors. Bag charms, meanwhile, are dimensional and exude cuteness, from the leopard key holder that matches the Pop Flower collection to the XL inflatable rabbit happily clinging to each bag.

Sun Yitian’s Animogram creation extend to shoes with the menagerie popping up on several styles: printed on Monogram nylon mules; as leather patches on the Lous open back sneakers, or as playful lace accessories and in corresponding colour ways for the LV Archlight sneakers. The entire menagerie comes together as a detailed family portrait on the Carré 90 scarf and appear individually as well, accented with a graphic Louis Vuitton border.

Finally, Sun Yitian’s collaboration has inspired three limited editions of its iconic perfumes Spell on You, Imagination and Heures d’Absence, enriching the fragrance stories with playful decors. For the first time, these Louis Vuitton perfumes are adorned with precious charms – an animal and the LV signature pendant – attached to a fine golden chain. The pink rabbit joins Spell on You, its color resonating with the pink juice of iris pallida blended with sophisticated rose evoking romance with a touch of mischief. The orange leopard is paired with Heures d’Absence with its free-spirited and contemporary bouquet of mimosa, jasmine and May rose. The yellow duck returns to animate Imagination, a daring fragrance bursting with an amber accord with citrus and Chinese black tea. Each perfume, composed by Master Perfumer Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, comes in colorful packaging specially decorated by Sun Yitian featuring glossy LV Monograms. Specially for the occasion, Imagination has its own travel case in Reverse Monogram adorned with the duck.

In all their forms, Sun Yitian’s animals will be memorably linked to the Louis Vuitton Pre-fall 2024 collection as an artistic expression rendered with fun and fantasy.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton
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I am happy as a bug back in my London home. The city has grown so much on me with its diverse and vibrant flair and I have made amazing friends here. Good vibes, good life!

My look: Braided metallic checked wool-blend bouclé jacket, silk-satin jacquard shirt, and matching cropped silk-satin jacquard wide-leg pants, all by Gucci, crystal drop choker necklace by Alessandra Rich, wallet on chain, and loafers with logo buckle, both by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Felicia Sewerinsson @feliciasewerinsson
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