No more excuses not to do sports… here is an ideal gift idea for those who wish to exercise in style or elevate their home gym with exclusive Louis Vuitton details.
LoL, Sandra
2kg dumbbells by Louis Vuitton
Photos: © Louis Vuitton
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In an ode to childhood, Louis Vuitton unveils a new capsule addition to its first Baby Collection, dedicated to the colder months. The creations envelop newborns with softness and warmth, revealing sumptuous textiles with delicate embroidery. Evocative of timeless elegance, the precious pieces are dappled with the signature Meli-Melo motif.
So cute. And a great gift idea for a mum of a newborn baby.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Louis Vuitton
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A touch of rock chic in California photographed on one of the most famous streets in the world: Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.
My look: Azina studded leather peplum bustier top, and Treva asymmetric ruffled plissé-lamé mini skirt
, both by Isabel Marant, VSLING mini top handle handbag in black with sparkling embroidery
, and Tan-Go embellished platform pumps, both by Valentino, Dynasty D-Frame Sunglasses in black by Balenciaga, vintage pearl choker by Louis Vuitton, silver-tone crystal clip earrings, and heart necklace, both by Alessandra Rich.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @collagevintage2
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Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is delighted to present ‘The Pearl Cullinan’ – a magnificent, one-of-one Bespoke motor car commissioned by the owner’s family to mark a significant birthday. It is also the first Bespoke project to be revealed by the Private Office Dubai, which works with local Dealer Partners to bring the authentic Goodwood experience to clients across the Middle East and Africa region.
‘The Pearl Cullinan’ was commissioned in early 2022 by a longstanding Rolls-Royce client, to mark his father’s 90th birthday. Regional Director, César Habib, and Bespoke Lead Designer, Michelle Lusby, were originally introduced to the father with the purpose of understanding his passions and life story; these meetings provided valuable insights to inform the design direction for the commission.
BESPOKE PEARL ROSE EXTERIOR FINISH
The Bespoke Pearl Rose finish is inspired by the colour of the owner’s most prized pearl in his extensive, world-class collection and is reserved exclusively for this motor car: it will not be available to any other client in future. Paint specialists at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood used carefully selected pigments to replicate a delicate hint of pink rarely found in natural pearls. Unusually, the paint combines both metallic and pearlescent effects to give exceptional depth and lustre.
Perfecting the finish required around 30 different iterations, each applied to a full-sized body panel. These were pre-checked under daylight simulation lamps in the Atelier at Goodwood, then sent to the client to make sure the colour was correct when viewed under the Middle Eastern sun. The paint also underwent extensive technical testing to ensure it will remain unaltered by heat or UV light over its lifetime.
The Pearl Rose finish is complemented with a single coachline, applied by hand in Rose Gold paint, to match the rose gold-plated Spirit of Ecstasy mascot. The rose gold theme also extends to the Bespoke treadplates, which are revealed on each of the four door sills upon opening.
INTERIOR: THE ART OF PRESENTATION
The interior of ‘The Pearl Cullinan’ features two different leather colours. The front seats – where the father prefers to travel as a passenger – are finished in his favourite Cashmere Grey. In reference to the family’s heritage, the rear seats are trimmed in Ardent Red which takes inspiration from the colour of the material on which pearls are presented to customers, to best highlight their subtle natural colour variations. In a similar vein, the burr walnut veneer echoes the wooden presentation boxes in which pearls are traditionally handed over to customers upon purchase.
Bespoke embroidery detailing includes ‘RR’ monograms in Rose Gold thread on the headrests, and rear seat inserts in Grace White, inspired by the symmetrical growth patterns of an oyster shell and angled at the same precise 55 degrees as the veneer.
A CELEBRATION OF MOTHER-OF-PEARL
‘The Pearl Cullinan’ features one of the most extensive uses of mother-of-pearl ever seen in a Rolls-Royce motor car. The natural variations of this beautiful material created opportunities and challenges in equal measure for the marque’s designers and craftspeople.
This is particularly apparent with the detailed design of the Picnic Tables, fitted to the rear of the front passenger seats. The upper surface features an intricate, circular pattern inspired by traditional Arabic design that draws the eye inwards to a central point. Each tabletop is then inlaid with 1,351 separate pieces of mother-of-pearl, every one individually selected and placed by hand in the surrounding burr walnut marquetry and sealed with clear lacquer. The natural shade and colour differences in both the mother-of-pearl and the wood mean each tabletop is a unique work of art.
The burr walnut fascia incorporates an exquisite mother-of-pearl inlay inspired by traditional Middle Eastern art. At its centre is the Arabic word for ‘father’, inlaid in stainless steel. In a first for Rolls-Royce, the Bespoke dashboard clock is set in a mother-of-pearl surround; the dial and hands are in rose gold. The centre rotary dial is also finished with mother-of-pearl, giving it a tactile, jewel-like quality.
Above the occupants, the Bespoke Starlight Headliner shows the sky as it appeared on the night and at the very place the commissioning client’s father was born.
Michelle Lusby, Bespoke Lead Designer at the Private Office Dubai, said, «For me, there was a huge emotional connection with this Bespoke project. I had the privilege of spending time with the commissioning family, which allowed me to discuss details of the design directly with them, and really understand their true significance. Their unique use of mother-of-pearl was a great creative and technical challenge for us: to see the Picnic Tables go from my original digital designs to those beautiful, highly detailed finished works of art was fantastic. This is a truly special commission in so many ways, and a project we aspire to have as Rolls-Royce designers. Emotions inspire our imaginations.»
Another beautiful bespoke creation from the House of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Rolls-Royce
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Life is too short to wait … I decided not waste time on unimportant matters or unworthy emotions. Life is also too short to wait for a special event to wear a fabulous outfit. During my month here in London – I am having such a good time in this vibrant city – I love to dress up and go out. This has become one of my favorite looks.
My look: Lace turtleneck bodysuit, matching lace leggings, croc-effect vinyl mini skirt
, and laser-cut leather corset belt
, all by Alaïa, Cherry leather platform ankle boots
by Saint Laurent, and black satin pochette (Métiers d’Art 2023 Collection Paris – Dakar) by CHANEL.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @georgiashane
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While being in Seoul for the Frieze Art Fair, I was invited by MCM to explore The Upcycle Project, a 20-piece exhibit by British-Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori, who is known for his playful design approach, at the MCM HAUS Flagship in Seoul.
Through emotion and perspective, the pieces in this collection converge at the junction of fashion and contemporary art. A true reflection of Ilori’s signature approach, the collaboration thrives on diverse color motifs, architecture, and spaces to encourage visitors to see new perspectives.
(Part 1) «There is Good in All of Us» on then ground floor of the store features an assortment of 10 renewed chairs that incorporate unused Visetos materials. By repurposing and revitalizing materials, the collaboration highlights the importance of environmental consciousness and responsible consumption.
«Complementing each artwork is a kaleidoscope, enticing visitors into a dance of colors and patterns.»
— Yinka Ilori
(Part 2) «Looking at Me», the latter half of the exhibit on the third floor of the shop, features a mix of Ilori’s older works alongside new ones from his most recent collection. The first six chairs reflect Ilori’s memories of growing up in London as a British Nigerian and explores heritage, culture and family.
The next four (from a new collection titled «All of Us») are bolder, more unapologetic and expressive to capture Ilori’s coming of age as an artist and designer.
«It’s an invitation to delve deeper, to discover the beauty beneath the overt, signifying an unending cycle of growth, balance, and rejuvenation.»
— Yinka Ilori
The pieces are on display at the MCM HAUS Flagship Store in Seoul from 4 September until 22 October, 2023. All works of art can be purchased at MCM HAUS, Seoul, after 22 October, 2023. For more information, please click here.
MCM HAUS
412 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu
Seoul, South Korea
11am- 8pm
+82 2-540-1404
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Since the groundbreaking partnership between Karl Lagerfeld and fashion giant H&M in 2004 for a designer collaboration, it became clear to couturiers that bringing high fashion to the everyday woman was well within arms reach. H&M unveils yet another blockbuster collaboration. This time, it’s Rabanne’s time to shine. The radiant new designer collaboration flirts with fantasy, dances through decades and dreams about the future. Bringing together the carefree exuberance of the 1970s, the optimistic futurism of Rabanne and a touch of retro-inflected romance, the collection channels a modern vision of approachable opulence, joy and confidence.
Rabanne has pushed provocative, unexpected style onto the fashion scene since it was founded by Mr. Paco Rabanne in 1966. Julien Dossena, the house’s creative director, continues to uphold the brand’s reputation for challenging the status quo. With artisanal precision and a dynamic approach, Dossena has reimagined Rabanne for a new generation while continuing to take inspiration from its iconoclastic past. With the Rabanne x H&M collaboration he is opening up the brand, making it more accessible without compromising quality or creativity.
Rabanne fans will get plenty of the house’s signature metallic opulence, but the collection looks in new directions as well. There’s a floor-length tiered chiffon gown bedazzled with crystals, a crisp poplin button-up with broderie anglaise detailing and oversized pleated sleeves, a rich floral jacquard cutout dress, structured wool outerwear, gracefully draped jersey knit separates and lots of leopard print — truly something for everyone to wear to the party.
The collection also features an exclusive H&M HOME selection, available in selected markets, that delivers a sleek yet playful version of laid-back luxury. This is the first time Rabanne has designed for the home, and it represents the most extensive interiors offering ever introduced in an H&M designer collaboration. It includes accent furniture, a gleaming disc curtain, angled vases, playing cards and dice, a water bottle and more — all given Rabanne’s signature sheen.
Rabanne H&M sparkles to its full potential when worn: glittering paillettes catch the light with every step, mirrored discs clink gently against one another, delicate chain mail glides with the body like metallic silk. Each garment is an experience, an exploration of materials, textures and motion — made to dance, laugh and live in.
Rabanne x H&M launches globally in selected stores and on hm.com on 9 November 9, 2023. Rabanne x H&M HOME will be available at selected H&M HOME stores and on hm.com in selected markets from November 9, 2023.
Putting an ‘x’ between two names has simply become a part of the ever-changing news cycle within the fashion industry. I find the endless rollouts of designer collaborations a little tiring. What about you?
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © H&M
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This week, I was invited to a great cocktail evening with my Net-à-Porter family to celebrate the launch of Manolo Blahnik’s Virtual Archives: The Craft. It was amazing to dive into this multi-sensory VR experience where I could discover the extraordinary craftsmanship of Manolo Blahnik. Celebrating artisans and artistry, the evening invited us to explore the latest feature of the virtual experience dedicated to exploring the mastery behind the men’s and women’s collections. The award-winning virtual archives examine the process from design through to techniques and construction, offering an insight into the craft of shoemaking.
From Manolo’s desk to the factory floor, take a journey into the wonderful world of shoes in this virtual experience. Book a slot for the London xydrobe experience here.
On display were also the newest collections and many of the beautiful sketches Manolo Blahnik is famous for.
TO SHOP MANOLO BLAHNIK x NET-À-PORTER, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
LoL, Sandra
With my lovely hosts of the night: Elodie Bougenault, Chief Commercial Officer at Manolo Blahnik, and Vikki Kavanagh, Managing Director at NET-A-PORTER and Mr Porter.
Annabel Skamen and me love the Hangisi 105 embellished satin pumps.
Marilyn Monroe only wore CHANEL N°5 in bed, I only wear my Manolos … good night!
Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Welcome to my Clé de Peau Beauté Key Radiance routine. As an amabassador for this ultra luxury skincare and makeup brand, I would like to present you the different steps to achieve beautiful, glowing, and healthy radiant skin. Skincare doesn’t need to be complicated — with the right products, it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3.
Clé de Peau Beauté has always known this since its creation in 1982. Being at the cutting edge of skincare innovation, using the most potent, scientifically-proven ingredients to forge new frontiers in advanced skin-cell science, each product in the range features Clé de Peau Beauté’s Skin-Empowering Illuminator, a patented technology made with Platinum Golden Silk Essence to enhance your complexion’s intuitive ability to self-repair.
Step 1: AWAKEN
The Serum
With a unique formula that feels as though it’s melting into the skin, Clé de Peau Beauté’s best-selling THE SERUM is the crucial first step in the Key Radiance Care Ritual, as it awakens Skin Intelligence while delivering vital moisture and priming skin for optimal absorption of Clé de Peau Beauté skincare. For maximum impact, apply three pumps morning and evening onto freshly cleansed skin.
Step 2: NURTURE
Hydro-Softening Lotion
Follow up the nutrient-packed serum with the Clé de Peau Beauté HYDRO-SOFTENING LOTION that instantly and intensively hydrates and balances skin to help eliminate the appearance of roughness and dryness, thanks to a potent combination of moisturising agents. Like the mind, skin is smart. The Hydro-Softening Lotion leverages Skin Intelligence to support your skin’s maximum ability to restore and protect itself. This product helps you respond to the good (nutrients, sleep, moisture) and bad (pollution, stress, UV rays) for your best skin. It has a clear liquid consistency and should be applied with a cotton pad morning and evening.
I recommend using the Clé de Peau silk COTTON pads that are much better than normal cotton pads as they don’t absorb too much of the product and have an exfoliating effect.
Step 3: BOOST
The Moisturizer
Finish off your skincare routine with a targeted daily moisturizer that nourishes and protects while enhancing skin’s natural resilience for vibrant, youthful-looking skin. During the day, reach for Clé de Peau Beauté’s PROTECTIVE FORTIFYING CREAM. Containing UV protection (SPF 20), it helps guard against environmental aggressors such as UVA, UVB, blue light and infrared rays, it’s the perfect base for foundation. With continued use, it maintains skin’s natural moisture barrier and resilience. Take a pearl-sized amount and sweep it over the skin following The Serum and Hydro-Softening Lotion for a flawless finish.
At night, use the ultimate anti-aging night cream LA CRÈME, that maximizes your skin’s ability to repair, renew, and protect itself overnight to restore the look and feel of youthful skin. With a high concentration of Skin-Empowering Illuminator, it is the icon of the brand and targets skin’s innate potential for self-regeneration. As the skin is at its lowest level at night, this product amplifies the skin’s innate self-regeneration potential. Come morning, the skin feels rejuvenated, incredibly smooth and firm. With its continued use, the skin achieves remarkable resilience and a youthful density. It is an amazing luxurious product, the best you gift to your skin. It takes three days to produce it in the factory. Other products take around half a day in general.
The packaging is also in line with this outstanding product, a jewel, like a diamond. It is a testament to perfection, with 40-years of research behind it. 60 ingredients are transformed in meticulous steps, formulated for a youthful and radiant look, and fully produced in the workshops in Japan.
Don’t forget to use the ENHANCING EYE CONTOUR CREAM SUPREME as the final step of your ritual at day and night. The Clé de Peau Beauté award-winning eye cream focuses on the micro circulation and helps to produce collagen and tightens the eye contour. It also diminishes the appearance of fine lines and under eye darkness while visibly lifting and plumping to support youthful vibrancy around the eye area. Its rich, silky texture absorbs easily into the skin. Best applied with a platinum-coated eye massager tool with a unique faceted design that enables the tool to roll effortlessly over skin.
Incredibly smooth skin with a glow that evolves over time. Vitality, awakened. Resilience, reclaimed. Forward to a radiant tomorrow.
Finally Clé de Peau Beauté is available in Switzerland at Globus and Marionnaud.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post is sponsored. We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise!
At this year’s Paris+ par Art Basel, Louis Vuitton continues its longstanding commitment to the arts by exhibiting and showcasing a curated selection of creative collaborations and original artworks from leading international artists. The Maison is also revealing wave five of the Artycapucines collection.
The Louis Vuitton booth for Paris+ par Art Basel 2023, which runs from 20-22 October at the Grand Palais Éphémère, has been designed to resemble an oversized Louis Vuitton trunk. The exterior of the booth is inspired by the Copper Malle Courrier by Pharrell Williams, which was presented on the runway for his debut Louis Vuitton menswear collection, for S/S 2024. The booth’s interior walls feature the iconic malletage pattern, the refined crisscrossing motif that has padded the inside of the Maison’s trunks since Louis Vuitton founded his business in 1854. The booth is the perfect showcase for an exhibition of curated works by an ensemble of world-renowned artists, including collaborations on bags and canvas by Takashi Murakami; reworked, unique travel trunks by Damien Hirst; and Stephen Sprouse‘s Roses Monogram Alma bag.
Other original artworks on show include three paintings by Richard Prince; one by Takashi Murakami; a circular portrait of a young Louis Vuitton by Yan Pei-Ming; and an AI-data painting entitled Finding LV by Refik Anadol. Also included are seven new works by Yayoi Kusama, exhibited for the first time, each entitled Every Day I Pray for Love. The phrase has featured on the back of Kusama’s recent paintings, including this new series, which was begun in 2022 during the conception of the artist’s latest collaboration with Louis Vuitton.
At Paris+ par Art Basel, the Maison will also reveal five additions to its now iconic Artycapucines Collection. Since 2019, the collection has seen leading international artists – including Daniel Buren, Urs Fischer, Donna Huanca, Vik Muniz, Park Seo-Bo, Tschabalala Self, Kennedy Yanko, and Zhao Zhao – bring their unique creative visions to the blank canvas offered by the Capucines bag’s modern classic design. The five new bags on display at Paris+ par Art Basel are by Ewa Juszkiewicz, Liza Lou, Tursic & Mille, Ziping Wang, and Billie Zangewa, and reveal the ingenious creativity of their artist designers and the creative ingenuity of Louis Vuitton’s artisans who turned those visions into reality.
In 2023, following its successful presence at last year’s inaugural Paris+ par Art Basel, Louis Vuitton is now proud to become a global Associate Partner of Art Basel.
This additional support further confirms the Maison’s close and committed relationship to the arts, one that started nearly a century ago when Gaston-Louis Vuitton, the founder’s grandson, began commissioning artists to collaborate with Louis Vuitton on advertisements and perfume bottles.
Since 1988, Louis Vuitton has continued this legacy by collaborating with some of the biggest names in modern art and design, including Sol LeWitt, James Rosenquist, Cesar, and Olafur Eliasson. It has curated exhibitions by artists such as Sophie Calle,Dan Flavin, Alberto Giacometti and Gerhard Richter in its Espaces Louis Vuitton around the world (Tokyo, Munich, Venice, Beijing, Seoul and Osaka), and has more recently created innovative large-scale global art projects, such as the 2022 collaboration with Yayoi Kusama that included giant statues of the artist in Paris and London, an anamorphic billboard in Tokyo, and a capsule collection of bags, shoes, accessories, luggage, and fragrances. In 2014, the Maison opened the landmark Frank Gehry-designed Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris, which further strengthened its continuing mission to bring the best modern and contemporary art to new audiences.
Louis Vuitton will present during Paris+ par Art Basel, which runs 20 – 22 October 2023 at the Grand Palais Éphémère, 2 Place Joffre, 75007 Paris, France.
From 13 October, the Louis Vuitton City Guide app will feature a new Contemporary Art «flânerie» – or stroll route – which will include a stop at Paris+ par Art Basel.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Louis Vuitton
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.