Sandra‘s Closet

As the holiday season approaches, Dior has created The Fabulous World of Dior, a spectacular presentation illuminating the hallowed halls of the legendary Harrods department store. An exceptional event combining the charm of the English spirit with French luxury and art de vivre refinement.

A fervent admirer of England, from 1953 Christian Dior developed a powerful and unbreakable bond with Harrods, London’s epicenter of British elegance. This story, beginning with Harrods’ earliest singular branded boutique, has continued to grow through exclusive collaborations and is now enriched by a new chapter, unique in its scope and creative daring, inspired by the magic of Christmas.

For this breathtaking event, Harrods is decked out in a dazzling installation deployed along its historic façade on Brompton Road.

Dior reinvents the forty-four traditional Christmas windows of Harrods.

From November 10 to January 3, 2023, the façade of the Brompton Road edifice will be adorned with a monumental installation aglow with a play of light radiantly showcasing Dior’s fundamental references as reinterpreted by artist Pietro Ruffo for the Dior cruise 2023 collection. The compass rose, lucky stars and scintillating flowers will guide visitors along the historic window displays – a captivating attraction that draws people from all over the world, transformed and brought to life by a fantastic gingerbread tableau. A journey that stretches the limits of the imagination, exploring the House’s different worlds and symbols, from fashion to beauty.In the heart of this prestigious venue, a thousand fascinating surprises and animated decors, enhanced by gourmet treats, await customers.

Dior Café at Harrods – a new and extraordinary venue dedicated to delighting the taste buds.

Two dreamlike pop-ups – an ode to Monsieur Dior’s attachment to the celebration of Christmas and the art of cherishing loved ones – along with a Café specially conceived for the occasion, and even a truly immersive exhibition that plays with proportions to enchant the senses, promise unforgettable moments of joy and sharing. A tribute to British hospitality and the pleasure of entertaining, so dear to the founding couturier, a tearoom is unveiled in an unprecedented stage set, entirely adorned with gingerbread from the facade to the interior design and even the tiniest details, where Dior’s distinctive fundamentals are sketched. The Medallion chairs are dressed in iconic Dior toile de Jouy, the patterns of which can also be seen on the wooden tables, while the lines of the Maison’s signature cannage decorate the tableware, illuminated by delicate golden hues.

The architecture of Dior’s emblematic locations – from Granville to La Colle Noire and 30 Montaigne – are shown in reduced proportions.

Initiating a captivating encounter between the different customs that brighten the end of year festivities, from the City of Light to the English capital, Dior has conceived a unique, unprecedented exhibition – a real «kingdom of dreams» specially designed for Harrods – which revisits the tradition of gingerbread houses.

Timeless essentials of the feminine universe, the J’Adior pumps are dressed in the Jardin d’Hiver print, which also embellishes silk scarves, shawls, a pajama set from the Dior Chez Moi line, or the Lady Dior. It appears on exceptional trunks, as well as an elegant case enclosing a Saddle or a Lady Dior reinterpreted in micro format. Like an ode to travel and the plurality of cultures, the Rêve d’Infini motif imagined by Pietro Ruffo blossoms on the Dior Book Tote, (to see me wear this bag, click here please), D-Way mules and silk twill scarves, while the graphic cannage is drawn on iridescent phone pouches and cases.

The Dior Prestige ritual, lipsticks and fragrances – such as J’adore, Eau Sauvage, Miss Dior and the olfactory works of La Collection Privée – also appear in sumptuous exhibits, sometimes depicting a forest of pine trees made of cookies, sometimes a joyful flurry of candy balloons, boldly conveying the House’s excellence in beauty, from skincare to perfume.

A momentous pause in time, defined by a selection of objects of desire – such as sumptuous gift sets and advent calendars – cultivating, more than ever, the pleasure of giving so cherished by the House.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Dior
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I absolutely love the Maldives. Being a dreamy couple’s escape, I enjoy this precious time with my better half. From candlelit dinners under starry skies, to movie nights on the beach and boat trips to spot dolphins at sunset. Every day offers something different. In between I have a lot of fun shooting some outfit posts by myself at our private beach. The weather constantly changes from sunshine to rain as you can perfectly see in those pictures and my layers.

My look: Lorna jumpsuit in black, Lorna cupped bikini top in pink, and matching Lorna bikini bottom in pink, all by Agent Provocateur, color-block ribbed knit cardigan by Christopher John Rogers, DiorSignature B1U cat-eye acetate and gold-tone sunglasses by Dior, GG buckled rubber sandals by Gucci, Ras Du Cou silver-tone, shell and beaded necklace, and gold-tone and shell choker, both by Isabel Marant.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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GG-encoded in those two simple letters is a storied system of values, and not just for Gucci. Since the 1960s, the monogram of the House’s founder Guccio Gucci has been featured across collections as a nod to its heritage. The initials similarly surface over and over again at the end of multiplayer games as competitors suddenly turn back into companions, saluting each other with the abbreviation for «good game.» This is the point of connection that Gucci Good Game explores, and that is celebrated in a special new capsule collection presented by the House.

Embraced in 2019, Gucci Good Game is the motto for the House’s ventures into the world of gaming as it creates hubs for play, self-expression, talent, freedom, and individuality – spotlighting the positive principles that are pivotal in making an enjoyable gaming experience possible. Encompassing the full spectrum of gaming from fun to professional, Gucci’s forays into the arena share a collaborative approach, involving various creators in the development of authentic experiences that aim to establish close and deep connections with gamers.

Over the years, the initiatives have seen the brand building a multifaceted presence in a select number of games as well as in immersive gaming platforms, including Roblox, The Sandbox, Zepeto, Hot Wheels Unleashed, Pokémon GO, Animal Crossing, Tennis Clash, The Sims – or partnering with XBOX to offer a limited-edition bundle. The GG initials reworked as the Gucci Good Game logo debuted with the Gucci Gaming Academy – itself a significant manifestation of the House’s principles in this field, and were prominently displayed in Gucci Town on Roblox, the persistent digital space for the Gucci Community on the platform.

Now bringing the spirit of Good Game into the House’s foundational landscape— fashion—the collection further celebrates the link between Gucci and gaming. With its double meaning, the GG becomes the defining motif of this casual-minded capsule. From bowling shirts and hoodies to slides and sneakers, metallics combine with rainbow hues to create an iridescent effect across items emblazoned with the monogram.

Echoing the exploration of new landscapes and meetings of worlds, the collection takes center stage in a visual narrative envisioned by King Kong Magazine, a collaborative project shot by photographer Piczo.

The Gucci Good Game collection will be available online at gucci.com, as well as in select Gucci Stores worldwide.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Gucci
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An exploration of private wishes is the focus of the Miu Miu holiday campaign. A perfectly formed collection is designed to appeal to our personal fantasies, all of them different, individual, gently provocative. A minimal, even utilitarian aesthetic is juxtaposed with archetypically feminine surface embellishment and gesture. A conversation between clothing reduced to its beautiful essence and a quietly celebratory frivolity ensues.

The campaign is both a mirror of the time and a dreamscape, inward looking – private – but an outward looking reflection of innermost thoughts. The Miu Miu Private Wishes campaign features actor and model Esther McGregor, model Mona Tougaard and actor You-mi Lee.

Responsible for the styling was Lotta Volkova, whom you know from her recent collaboration with Jean Paul Gaultier.

LoL, Sandra

Art Direction: Lina Kutsovskaya/Be Good Studios Photographer: Tyrone Lebon
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Who doesn’t like to have a beautiful natural pout? DIOR has two products that I absolutely adore. Easy to apply, they immediately protect and enhance the lips while providing deep nourishment. The best is that they lastingly bring out your natural lips color thanks to their color reviver technology that adapts to the pH of lips to reveal a custom glow for up to six hours. The formula saturates the lips with nutrients, and revitalizes them immediately and day after day, lips are more beautiful, even bare, after 5 days of application.

I always start the application with the iconic DIOR ADDICT LIP GLOW in 006 Berry. Featuring cherry oil, shea butter, and sunflower waxes, it offers both custom color and lip care.

Afterwards, as a top coat for volumizing shine, I apply the DIOR ADDICT LIP GLOW OIL in 006 Berry that instantly nourishes, protects, softens and revitalizes the lips. Its non-greasy, non-sticky oil texture pushes the boundaries of shine and creates a smoothing film that shapes the lips with an almost magnifying mirror-shine effect. Multi-use, it can also be worn equally well on its own, or as a primer under lipstick.

Both products are available in a couture case and in several shades to suit all skin tones. I love the berry hue as it makes teeth appear much whiter thanks to its bluish undertone.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht 
DISCLOSURE: This post is not sponsored. I bought the products myself. However, we may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise!

Beautiful hands are the result of great care. I haven’t been a day without nail polish since a very long time. My favorite manicurists in Zurich is Carmen at Medical Garage and Megan at GG Cosmetics. They are mother and daughter, and I promise you will be in very good hands.

In terms of nourishment, I love this new hand cream from SHISEIDO’s best-selling ULTIMUNE collection. It is bursting with natural vitality that moisturizes and protects — courtesy of Multi-Defense Shield — for smoother, more beautiful skin. I love its quick-absorbing non-sticky texture, lasting smoothness, and relaxing floral scent in an easy to carry tube. In Switzerland available for CHF 32.00 (75ml).

CLICK HERE TO SHOP THE SHISEIDO ULTIMUNE POWER INFUSING HAND CREAM ONLINE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht – @shiseido #Ultimume
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Welcome to Maldives! Since almost one week already I am embracing island life at the Ritz-Carlton Fari Islands resort which is an absolute a dream. I am relaxed, nourished and just happy. Nature is so powerful here and the energy is very special. I feel inspired and refreshed. The first days I did absolutely nothing besides, swimming, exercising and reading books. Then, I was in the mood to take some photos. Before coming here, I bought myself a compact travel tripod which was a super investment as I took all of these shots by myself and it was a lot of fun!

My look: Dragon-print swimsuit with gold buttons, and matching dragon-print pareo, both by Balmain, gold wedge sandals by Aquazzura, BV1070 cat-eye sunglasses by Bottega Veneta, «Dubai» limited edition white and gold book tote with Rêve d’Infini motif imagined by Pietro Ruffo and matching «Dubai» J’adior limited edition bracelet set in black and white Dior Oblique cotton by Dior, gold metal necklace with coins and matching earrings, both by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Each year, I enjoy ACQUA DI PARMA’s Holiday collection to the fullest. It is a true festival of wonders, with so many gift options or delightful treats for the house.

This season, the Italian House has come up with something very delicious: the seasonal exclusive Panettone candle. It is a delightful treat for the sight, smell and taste evoking the most delicious memories of the holidays. Brining the iconic scent of yummy Panettone, the traditional Milanese festive dessert well-loved all over the world, its sparkling citrus meets in an irresistible blend with the gourmand notes of vanilla and candied fruits.

The limited-edition candle (CHF 107.00) features a weave of sunlit yellow elements on the glass jar and the outerbox, a one-of-a-kind print inspired by a Florentine artisanal technique by Italian craftsmen, especially for ACQUA DI PARMA’s Holiday Collection. Perfect as festive notes across your living spaces. It is also available as a diffuser (CHF 121.00).

The other seasonal exclusive scent is called Magia del Camino. The packaging is dressed in intense hues and magical tones to scent the home with the comforting warmth of gathering together around the fireplace. Available as candle and diffuser.

Rejoice in a snowy atmosphere where the crisp winter air of Bosco brings a sense of bliss.

Other beautiful gift sets and products dedicated to the festive season are:

The splendid welcome into the Italian festive wonderland with an Advent Calendar (CHF 595.00) full of surprises.

Convivial and vibrant with radiant Colonia Collection gifts sets (CHF 171.00) that gives light to a festive Holiday.

A window with a view that opens into a journey of discovery with Oud Favorites Set (CHF 317.00).

The Barbiere Daily Ritual Set (CHF 123.00) is the perfect gift for your loved one.

A treasure trove of Mediterranean gems in Blu Mediterraneo gift sets (CHF 113.00) to take you back to your favourite memories.

Every print in this beautiful Holiday Collection is a unique one-off combination produced by hand through the marbled technique. A wonderful detail that defines the Italian wonderland dressing those creations in colours bursting with festive joy.

In Switzerland the collection is available at Jelmoli and Globus.
TO SHOP THE ACQUA DI PARMA HOLIDAY 2022 COLLECTION ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © ACQUA DI PARMA
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Tweed, the durable beautiful fabric, has been CHANEL‘s signature material for over a century years. In March at the Grand Palais Éphémère, CHANEL’s artistic director and designer Virginie Viard showed for F/W 2022 a ready-to-wear collection completely dedicated to tweed and CHANEL Makeup Creation Studio drew also inspiration from the emblematic fabric for its 2022 EYE MAKE-UP COLLECTION.

Anyone who is familiar with the French Maison knows that tweed has been synonymous with the brand ever since Coco Chanel rose to fame in the 1920s. Many do not know, however, how Coco Chanel’s affection for tweed started. While she was dating the Duke of Westminster, she realized the versatility and potential of the fabric with its flexible texture and irregular patterns, giving it its natural appearance. Being a true visionary, she partnered in 1924 with a Sottish factory to begin making her first tweed designs which ranged from jackets to sportswear.

A few years later, Chanel partnered with a French factory to create tweed that could incorporate different materials such as silk and cotton in order to give it a more elevated, high fashion look and feel. Chanel also began dying the material different colors to distinguish her tweed from the typical, classic hues. Until today, tweed is a source of infinite possibility and offers exceptional creative freedom for the House of CHANEL. It is produced each season in a variety of forms, colors, and styles.

For the new EYE MAKE-UP COLLECTION, called LES 4 OMBRES TWEED, the essence of the emblematic fabric has once again been reinterpreted, now taking the form of limited-edition LES 4 OMBRES eyeshadows. First created in 1982, this eye quad has also become a CHANEL makeup staple.

DRESS YOUR EYES IN TWEED
For this new collection, four exclusive creations were designed with a tweed pattern embossed on the surface of each shade. The four-color harmonies capture the creative worth of the fabric. Just as different fibers are intertwined to form tweed, the shades can be blended, and their intensity varied, to achieve chic and bold makeup results. The eyeshadows are as effortless to apply as a tweed garment is to wear.

For this special occasion, the compacts are paired with tweed pouches crafted by Maison Lesage, which is part of CHANEL’s Métiers d’art since 2002. Each of the four harmonies features a unique color palette and suits all skin tones. These versatile eyeshadows work in synergy to create a wide range of looks, from simple and natural to sophisticated.

TWEED FAUVE
The first harmony, entitled Tweed Fauve, is composed of radiant hues that bring warmth to the eyes. A combination of powerful colors between earth and fire, which combines a fiery brick orange with the depth of an intense aubergine brown, illuminated by the subtle shine of a satin coral and the reflections of an amber gold.

TWEED CUIVRÉ
The second, Tweed Cuivré, makes them shine with golden shimmer. An elegant accord that evokes the richness and brilliance of the precious metals dear to Gabrielle Chanel.

TWEED POURPRE
Tweed Pourpre combines pinks and mauves to offer a satiny and iridescent make-up look. A harmony that oscillates between softness and audacity. Tweed Pourpre brings together pinks and mauves while offering a satin and iridescent finish.

TWEED BRUN ET ROSE
Four natural brown and beige tones represent the final creation, Tweed Brun et Rose. It is embodied by four eyeshadows in natural colors with shades of brown and beige. I am wearing it in the picture above.

STYLO YEUX WATERPROOF
To complement these color harmonies, two new shades of STYLO YEUX WATERPROOF have been created—one, Cuivre Doré, to illuminate the eyes, the other, Bois Noir, for added intensity.

This extremely beautiful eye make-up collection is in stores now.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © CHANEL and © Sandra Bauknecht / Nadia Krawiecka
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As FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ fever takes hold, Hublot announced a dedicated the official «Hublot Loves Football» campaign with 15 football icons and 15 one-of-a-kind football designs created by my beloved friend fashion designer Mira Mikati.

Hublot will serve as the tournament’s official timekeeper, timing all 64 matches, right through to the final in Doha’s Lusail Stadium on December 18. With more than 1 billion viewers, the FIFA World Cup™ tournament is the world’s most watched sports event.

Designer Mira Mikati and Kylian Mbappé  during a creative session for Hublot Loves Football.

To illustrate the campaign, Hublot’s love of football, and the brand’s commitment to beauty in diversity, Hublot invited Lebanese fashion designer Mira Mikati to design a special, happy, colourful «Hublot Loves Football» campaign logo that brims with optimism. Her hand-drawn and painted design captures a youthful, hopeful enthusiasm and communicates a spirit of unity.

Mira with me during Paris Fashion Week.

«Play is at the heart of all my designs. When I’m not playing with colour, I’m playing with words. Just as football sparks joy on the pitch, I want my work to be a constant supply of happiness. Dreams really can come true. Meeting Hublot’s ambassadors and discussing their dreams, passions and how far these drivers can take you was very special. By interpreting every player’s dream, with Hublot we want to inspire other to dream just as big. Whether it’s playing for your country or designing your own collection, we want to inspire the next generation to believe they can achieve anything.» – MIRA MIKATI

In addition, Hublot brought Mira together with 15 Hublot Ambassadors and Friends of the Brand to create 15 unique designs to represent the football of their dreams. Each is a one-off, a piece of art created to capture the themes of hope and universal respect, as well as the individual personalities of the football stars and their shared passion for football. Some are hand-drawn and painted, others crocheted, representing the human element in football. Football is the people’s sport.

My Mira Mikati looks: Back to the ’80s – Santa Monica – Greetings from Verona – Vacation – Never Rest – Mira Mikati

The colors of the rainbow, playful, happy and above all else, colorful – something that perhaps best describe my lovely Mira Mikati. Her designs exude happiness in every detail and love wearing her creations. I am so proud of her for designing those footballs in a rather male dominated field.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: @ Hublot/ Mirą Mikati and © Sandra Bauknecht / Nadia Krawiecka
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