Sandra‘s Closet

Fashion Designer, Leyla Piedayesh, famous for her knitwear designs, has teamed up with Cybex to create a limited edition Callisto 3-in-1 travel system. Piedayesh, also a mother, took up the challenge as she knows too well the importance of having a pram that is not only highly functional but also compliments your style.

Callisto Lala Berlin SRP £360

The Lala Berlin collection features skulls in a striking hand stitched design with a cute baby twist of bows, bow-ties, eye-patches, prams and dummies. The range includes the city pram, travel system and luxury buggy along with stylish tote bag and small footmuff. Additional accessories are also available. For more information, please click here.

LoL, Sandra

Aton Lala Berlin SRP £160

Photos: Courtesy of Cybex and Lala Berlin

My trip to Qatar surpassed all expectations. Doha has reminded me a lot of Dubai 10 years ago, even better, modern and of course, full of luxury. Located on the coast of the Persian Gulf, all eyes are on Middle East’s new hot spot as the Qatari will host a large number of the venues for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. According to the British Telegraph, Qatar has the second highest income per capita in the world and you can see it everywhere.

On the first day of the year, I went shopping at Doha’s Villagio Mall, which was overly impressive. Reminiscent of the Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace and the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian in Las Vegas, the mall has got a changing sky that gives shoppers the feeling of being outside and a canal that runs through the center of the mall with gondola rides for guests. Every designer brand you can think of is represented, such as Bottega Veneta, Dior, Louis Vuitton and Montblanc among others. There is even an amusement park in the mall.

See for yourselves:

My look: Mathilda tuxedo jacket by Stella McCartney, green tee by Ralph Lauren Blue Label, top by Missoni, skinny mid-rise jeans by Rag & Bone Jean, sandals by Gucci, Alice two-tone bag by Chloé, Lady Excalibur watch by Roger Dubuis, necklace by Roberto Cavalli and 4810 hoop earrings by Montblanc.

Stay tuned for one last post from Doha about The Pearl.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Great news for all Jo Malone aficionados. The gorgeous Earl Grey & Cucumber scent that was first launched as part of a limited edition collection in spring 2011 is now part of the line.

This beautifully crafted fragrance is inspired by the thoroughly British tradition of “High Tea” – the mid-afternoon ritual that’s such a sought after experience in London’s most prestigious hotels. Where Earl Grey tea is accompanied by petite, wafer-fine cucumber sandwiches. In this inventive and unconventional cologne, the top notes burst with bergamot – the same ingredient that gives Earl Grey tea its distinctive, fruity aroma. Its then that you discover the crunchy, counterpoised with the sweet base of beeswax, vanilla and musk. Ravishingly reviving.

Available now as Cologne 30ml (CHF 68.00) and 100ml (CHF 130.00).
In Switzerland exclusively at Jelmoli Zurich and Globus Geneva.

To create your bespoke scent, spritz and layer with Grapefruit for instant freshness or with Nutmeg & Ginger for warmth with a spicy vibrancy.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Jo Malone

During my stay in Doha, I needed high sun protection for my winter pale skin to prevent damage from UV radiation. As temperatures are so perfect in December/January, you can spend hours in the sun. With the help of this trio, I have enjoyed it in complete safety.

FACE: Anthelios XL SPF 50+ Fluide Extreme by La Roche-Posay
This tinted water-resistant fluid is perfect for sensitive skin providing you with a little bit of bronzy glow you are missing after those winter months.
CHF 27.90 (50ml)

BODY: Aroma Sun Expert for Body SPF 50 by Decléor
A protective hydrating milk that protects the skin while moisturizing (Melon Extract, Argan Oil) it at the same time. Thanks to the DNA Protection Complex (Vanilla and Jasmine Extracts), it helps cells to prevent premature aging. It boosts skin’s natural defences (Essential Oil of Rose) and reduces reactions caused by sun exposure (Rea from Tahiti). Personally speaking, I have never used such an easy-to-apply milk with a non-greasy texture but such a high SPF.
CHF 47.- (150ml)

AFTER: Capital Soleil After Sun Cellular SOS Repair Balm by Vichy
A rich but non-sticky texture that works well for the whole family by calming down the skin after sun exposure. This specially designed formula works to repair damage by restoring the skin’s cellular defense capital. Willowherb Extract even soothes over-exposed, painful and red skin so that a sunburn can transform into a beautiful bronzed tan.
CHF 26.- (100ml)

LoL, Sandra

Photo: © Sandra Bauknecht

Starting from today, you should keep your eyes open for a very special window installation that will roll out across more than 70 Gucci boutiques around the world (unfortunately not including Switzerland) and will remain until mid February. For that project, Frida Giannini collaborates with renowned Japanese Manga artist, Hirohiko Araki, who has created an exclusive Manga (Japanese comic strip) story inspired by the Italian house’s beautiful Cruise 2013 collection. A multi-media campaign will complement the window installation, including the publication of the full Manga story exclusively in Japan’s Spur magazine.

Commenting on the collaboration Giannini said, “This has without doubt been one of the most enjoyable collaborations I have worked on. The characters that Hirohiko has conceived combine an energy, sensuality and appeal that brings my Cruise collection to life in such a fun and compelling way. I am quite sure his window installations will stop people in their tracks in cities around the world as they immerse themselves in the fabulous fantasy world he has created.”

Entitled “Jolyne, Fly High with Gucci,” Araki’s Manga tells the adventure of Jolie Kujo, a student who inherits a keepsake from her mother’s Gucci collection. Propelled by the mystery behind her vintage treasure, she embarks on a journey that transcends time.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: ©LUCKY LAND COMMUNICATIONS / SHUEISHA

The restaurant Parisa, one of my favourites that I visited in Doha, belongs to the Sharq Village and Spa. Traditional Persian dishes are served with a contemporary, modern twist. The perfect ambiance to suit the mood of my outfit.

My look: Printed silk-blend crepe top, matching wide-leg pants with side splits from thigh to ankle, leather pumps with ankle straps, all by Gucci (50% off), holographic faux leather clutch by Stella McCartney (new season, please click here for more information on this rising trend), cocktail ring by Roberto Cavalli and crochet-knit turban by Missoni (50% off).

I kept my make-up very easy, a little bronzer on the cheeks (24 Karat Shimmer Brick by Bobbi Brown – Limited Edition), mascara (Lash Queen Sexy Blacks by Helena Rubinstein) and red lips (Diorific 040 Marilyn by Christian Dior – Christmas look 2012).
On my nails: Coral Blame by Tom Ford.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

I have been in love with Jason Wu‘s embellished lace and silk-chiffon gown from the first moment when I spotted it on Karlie Kloss at the Met Gala in May (Always good to be friends with a designer… you get to wear it first). Now, this stunning piece is in stores. Get Karlie’s look:

Embellished lace and silk-chiffon gown by Jason Wu, velvet pumps by Dolce & Gabbana, Tonda clutch bag by Diane von Furstenberg and jewelry by Van Cleef & Arpels.

LoL, Sandra

So many of you have been asking me during the last days where I have been staying in Doha as my first post already showed some pictures of the fabulous resort. I spent a magical week at the Sharq Village and Spa operated by The Ritz-Carlton Company and experienced an unforgettable stay in the heart of Qatar.

It is located ten minutes from Doha International Airport on a private coastline with a beautiful beach offering striking views of Doha’s skyline. Due to the airport’s close proximity, you can enjoy some really impressive views on the departing airplanes.

Two fresh water pools are surrounded by the resort’s impressive traditional architecture inspired by the life and culture of ancient qatari tribes. The weather was just perfect during the last days, sunny and not too hot. The service is very friendly, the staff is greeting each hotel guest by name. I could totally get used to “Miss Sandra”.

Sharq Village and Spa is home to different highly recommended restaurants: Al Liwan (Lebanese), Al Dana (Casual), Al Jalsa (Arabian Café), Cigar Lounge, Al Wanis Shisha Terrace and Parisa (Persian), which has been my favourite. I will post some photos of my last dinner there soon. Of course, you can also enjoy a quick meal whilst relaxing at the pool at Al Seef Bar.

Al Jalsa (Arabian Café)

Breakfast at Al Dana

Al Wanis Shisha Terrace

Funnily enough, as I have just been to a Six Senses Spa in Gstaad at the Alpina hotel, I have been curious to compare both. The most important fact they have both in common, they are amazing in their own way. The Six Senses Spa in Sharq Village is respective of Qatari traditions with a separate ladies entrance, reception and exercise facilities. Something that I have also enjoyed very much, having state of the art fitness facilities just for myself.

The best part of my stay was the fairytale-like very spacious suite with a total of 165.5 square meters including a living room and two bedrooms each with their own bathroom. Fresh rose leaves on the bed were just one of the daily nice touches.

Bulgari bath amenities, a rainforest shower and a deep soaking jacuzzi tub were a daily pleasure. My trip to Doha was absolutely perfect and I am truly sad to leave. Stay tuned for more posts on my little adventures here under the Qatari sun.

LoL, Sandra

Photos used for collages: Courtesy of Sharq Village; All other photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Let’s have a look at Miu Miu‘s S/S 2013 ad campaign that is formed of a series of mise-en-scenes and still lives, in a mysterious domestic setting. The muted tones and painterly light of the theatrical setting highlight the vibrant vitality of the cast.

Photographed by Inez Van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin in New York, the campaign follows Miu Miu’s tradition of subverting traditional advertising imagery, this season offering a fresh view of contemporary femininity, rich with nuance and authenticity. High and low materials meet in rooms that have no sense of time or place, bleached wooden paneling and ruby red satin mirroring the duality of materials in the collection.

The cast itself embodies the many facets of a woman’s personality, femme fatales and innocent ingénues, playful belles and nostalgic beauties. This diverse constellation of women share their own private language, in an intimate series of poetic interactions. Nonchalant groupings and abstract close ups reflect both a harmonious closeness and their distinct individuality. Looking in through doors and windows that seem to lead to another world, we encounter a new kind of elegance in this seductive celebration of contemporary femininity.

Rich chocolate Shibori dip-dye mink jacket

One thing all these women have in common? Their desire to own one of Miu Miu’s unbelievable fur pieces! For the post of the S/S 2013 show, click here please.

LoL, Sandra

Travertine Shibori dip-dye mink jacket

Caramel and raspberry handmade Shibori dip-dyed fur stole

Soft grey and black handmade Shibori dip-dyed fur stole

Photos: Courtesy of Miu Miu

2013 is starting with a fashionable comeback of previous season’s must-haves of which some could be truly named vintage pieces. Another proof for my closet theory, keep everything, there will be a time to wear it again. So I am very happy to have all those pieces still in my wardrobe…

Olivia embellished leather waist belt by Moschino
The return of the iconic Moschino belt is probably the biggest surprise for me. I bought mine in Rome during my final school trip… a long time ago. It looks so used that I have ordered a new one now. Gosh, who would have thought that?!

The Britannia Skull leather box clutch by Alexander McQueen
This Union Jack-inspired clutch has become officially a true classic and will vamp up every outfit in seconds.

Double-breasted wool-blend blazer by Balmain
First launch for Pre-fall 2010, this blazer of glory sold out in seconds. Now, it is back in black. Hurry up to stock up your colour palette or to finally add this classic to your wardrobe selection.
If you interested to see me wearing it, please click here.

LoL, Sandra