Sandra‘s Closet

The first BALLY LOVE project is a series of outstanding iconic collectables created by Bally in partnership with Swiss-artist Philippe Decrauzat, a striking capsule collection featuring intriguing optical designs. Originally presented to the public during Art Basel in June, Bally will again showcase the collection during Art Basel Miami Beach, starting tomorrow, at a specially designed booth in the VIP Collectors Lounge.

Shop the iconic BALLY LOVE collection exclusively online and in the Miami pop-up store, located at the Moore Building, 191 NE 40th Street, Suite 101, Miami Design District, starting from December 3rd. From Decmber 4th, the collection will be available in selected stores.

Fashion meets art – always a good match!

LoL, Sandra

In the end of October, designers and artists teamed up for installations at MOMA PS1 (not meaning Proenza Schoulers’s It-bag). The MOMA PS1, one of the oldest and largest non-profit contemporary art institutions in the US, devotes its energy and resources to displaying the most experimental art in the world. MOVE! was a two-day event merging the worlds of fashion and art.
Those famous collaborations included among others Kalup Linzy and Diane von Furstenberg; Rob Pruitt and Marc Jacobs; Brody Condon and the Rodarte sisters; Dan Colen and Proenza Schouler; David Blaine and Adam Kimmel; Jonah Bokaer and Narciso Rodriguez and last but not least Olaf Breuning and Cynthia Rowley.

The dream team came up with one of the most popular projects. They dressed volunteers in denim garments to be used as canvas. The model took her place in a makeshift wodden container and Breuning doused her with bright splashes of paint upon her head. The photos that were made subsequently became then a part of the exhibition.

If you are interested to buy one or more of the 100 one-of-a-kind dress arts, please click here.

American fashion designer Cynthia Rowley is an admirer of contemporary art and an avid art collector. So it is no wonder that she teamed up with Swiss born wunderkind Olaf Breuning, one of the most singular multi-talented artists of today. His works include paintings, video-art, sculpture and photography. Previously, he had already collaborated with other fashion houses like Bernhard Wilhelm or Pleasure Principle.

Andrea and Gigi Kracht framing Olaf Breuning

Last weekend, Olaf Breuning, who is currently living in New York, came to Zurich for his solo-exhibition, on display in the beautiful garden of the Baur au Lac and implemented by the wife of the sixth-generation hotel owner, Gigi Kracht, in collaboration with Galerie Nicola von Senger.

Olaf Breuning with me

Gigi has been spot-on from the first moment she started Art in the Park by successfully shifting the hotel’s grounds into an art gallery and bringing lots of famous artists to the Swiss city. Her passion has paid off.
At the vernissage one week ago, four of Breuning’s specially for Art in the Park VI crafted sculptures were sold already.

I truly recommend a visit to the Baur au Lac. The exhibition will be open until the first week of February 2011. For those of you who cannot make it, please enjoy the photos.

LoL, Sandra

Now the boys can relax and play a nice round of foosball, while the fairer sex is sure to be all over the game, too. The ultra-pink Barbie Foosball table definitely bridges the gap of gender quality.

From the imagination of young French designer Chloé Ruchon, a student at Decorative Arts School in Strausburg, comes this crazy creation. It was produced in partnership with Mattel and the Bonzini group, the worldwide leader of foosball tables.

In place of the standard aluminium figurines of soccer (or “football” in Europe) players are leggy-line-ups of Barbie dools, ready for action. Guys, don’t you dream of getting in the game with a bunch of girls in hot pants?

This super-glam spin on the game-room classic is limited to only 8 numered pieces. Bearing an asking price of $24.999.-, it is available for special order by contacting the FAO Schwarz NYC Flagship Store at + 1 (212) 644-9400 or by clicking here.

The Barbie Foosball Table belongs to Mattel’s limited “The Plastic Collection” of carefully curated Barbie items from around the world.
Enjoy some of the other stunning pieces (photos above):

1 Barbie’s Pop Art (first in series), $750.- 
2 Jonathan Adler 1959 Barbie mirror, $8800.-
3 Kitschy-cute rings made out of dolls’ shoes by jewelry designer Margaux Lange, $235.-
4 Barbie chair that references Starck’s Ghost Chair by Philippe Starck and Kartell, $650.-
5 Only 180 Commes des Garçons Barbies will be produced, each $350.-
6 Trenchcoat by Martin Grant, covered with little dolls kisses, $600.-
7 Barbie neon sign is built to order, $2500.-

Many designers have dressed the famous doll already. A real treat for the Barbie lovers and fashionistas! I am still not over my Barbie phase and would love to collect them all!

Therefore, I am dying to pay a visit to the first Barbie flagship store that has opened its doors this year in Shanghai. One thing is for sure, it captures the imagination not just of young girls, but of women of all ages.

Children can enjoy a walk on the runway in Barbie-esque clothes and learn how to sing and dance to the Barbie song. For adults there is a clothing line from Patricia Fields, the stylist behind Sex and the City, a café where you can enjoy Barbie-tinis and a day spa.

For all Barbie lovers, a little idea for a great girly birthday cake. Just put a naked Barbie in the middle and make the frosting look like her dress. Easy with an amazing effect! Your daughter is going to love you for it…

Life in plastic seems fantastic!

LoL, Sandra

Isabel and Ruben Toledo are what you would call a power couple, two highly talented individuals working in synergy. It is a marriage of art and fashion since 1984.

Cuban-born Isabel is a renowned fashion designer. Her creations are often seen on the First Lady Michelle Obama. Available for example at couturelab.

Ruben paints, sculpts, illustrates and draws. His surreal view of life brings humor and unconventionality to his fashion illustrations that have appeared in magazines such as Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, Paper, Visionaire and the New York Times. His work has adorned many book covers and his sketches have been an integral part of the Louis Vuitton’s city guides for years.

The French luxury goods maker has just released a unique limited collector’s edition box of 100 postcards adorned with Toledo’s vibrant illustrations capturing the essence of various cities. A wonderful commemoration of an outstanding artist and an ideal gift for the lover of art and fashion. Available at Louis Vuitton stores or at Colette for €80.- ($115.-).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Louis Vuitton

Last week in Paris, I went to Pascal Millet’s showroom located beautifully near Notre-Dame with some stunning views of the Seine. His second collection in his own name for S/S 2011 is once more very couture, paying tribute to the Parisian chic. The designer was inspired by the work of Christopher Wool and Guy de Rougemont. The clothes were wonderfully displayed playing with fashion and art.

Structured pieces, of current elegance, of graphic poetry, in which the “Millet” touch is deeply imprinted. I love his rounded, fitted shoulders and the extraordinary hem details. The season’s ticket will be urban and sexy, announcing a sensual summer, colourful, with a delectable “gipsy” feel. For further information, please send an e-mail to .

An alluring encounter in the alleys of an Art Fair, see for yourself!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Pascal Millet and © Sandra Bauknecht

Pascal Millet with me wearing a hat from his S/S 2011 collection

Last night, I was invited to the vernissage of the exhibition Africa Rising and to celebrate the collaboration between Edun and Louis Vuitton.

Edun is the for-profit eco fashion label founded by Bono and his wife Ali Hewson on the premise of trade for aid as a means to alleviate poverty through sustainable employment and growth. Since 2009, LMVH acquired a 49% stake in the company in order to promote the brand’s vision.

The collection shows flair and individuality whilst remaining on-trend. I like the printed silk tanks and flowing materials. Shopping for a good cause! Available at net-à-porter or visit the Edun homepage for more information.

In Louis Vuitton’s recent Core Values advertising campaign, both Ali and Bono wear Edun clothing. Ali carries the Louis Vuitton/Edun collaboration bag:
The Keepall 45 Monogram Révélation in brown leather with the beautiful handmade Charm Massai in natural bones. Also attached is a plaque reminding us “Every journey began in Africa”.

There were lots of celebrities at yesterday’s party enjoying the beautiful contemporary art exhibition that showcased African art from Jean Pigozzi’s collection (CAAC).
If you are interested, the contemporary art exhibition will be on display to the public from October 6th to 18th 2010 at 1, Rue du Pont Neuf in Paris.

Naomi Campbell and Jean Pigozzi

Naomi looked amazing.

Elisa Sednaoui to the left with Rita Ora

Me with the stylish singer from The Noisettes: Shinghai Shoniwa

Style icon and daughter of French Vogue's Carine Roitfeld, Julia Restoin-Roitfeld with me

The most fashionable It-girl Alexa Chung with me

Louis Vuitton offered me a limousine for the night, what a gorgeous party!

The absolute highlight was Bono’s performance with Angélique Kidjo. I hope that you have enjoyed my best moments of last night! And please stay tuned as I will see today Louis Vuitton’s S/S 2011 fashion show!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Sandra Bauknecht

When I was in London recently, I visited the new headquarters of net-à-porter which are absolutely stunning.

The best part was my exclusive preview of Alexander McQueen’s exquisite F/W 2010 collection.
The late Bristish designer’s final work is a piece of art, to be taken literally and owning such a statement collector’s piece is like owning a piece of fashion history.

Have a look at my favourites and see how much work and dedication the genius put in his creations. Which one would be your cultural heritage fashionwise?

Look 2

Incrusted harness dress with bulletted duchesse skirt. The printed jacquard was inspired by 3 paintings from Heironymous Bosch entitled “Earthly paradise”, “Garden of Earthly delights”, and “Musical Hell”. The harness has an all over metal sequin embroidery inspired by Byzantine Mosaics.

Retail price £12,420.00

Look 3

Duchesse dress draped with minimal use of seams and darts to form two exaggerated pockets on the side. The embroidery is a metal based embroidery inspired by the 17th century Dutch wood carver, Grinling Gibbons. The embroidery combines bullion, threadwork, metal sequins, metal flowers, metal beading.

Retail price £7,640.00

Look 5

This is the last dress that Lee McQueen draped on the mannequin. The print is inspired by the 15th century artist Stephan Lochner’s 3 church paintings of the Inunciation. Print is on silk duchesse placed following the drape of the dress. The underskirt is made of gold painted goose feathers. This dress has a bustier as part of it’s construction.

Retail price £7,165.00

Look 12

This dress is a combination of the angel wing print translated on Duchesse and chiffon. The print is inspired by the 15th Century Flemish church painter, Hugo van der Goes. The duchesse part of the dress is very sleek with a train creating a stiffness which is softened by the airy chiffon skirt that seems as if revealed. The embroidery is a silver and light gold bullion embroidery backed unto organza.

Retail price £7,165.00

Here are some photos of the beautiful display and me enjoying every detail of those divine creations.

LoL, Sandra

When Fashion meets Art, the outcome is mostly promising. Fashion is like art a medium for interpretation and expression. As for me, my body is my very own canvas that serves as a communication tool. Every day, I can express myself new and seek out what suits my personal taste. Clothing sends a message and communicates emotions. It can be your vision of the world.

Therefore the union between art and fashion is in particular very interesting. The possibilities are versatile. Miuccia Prada`s Fondazione Prada has supported many ambitious artists in their creative process and enjoys an international reputation in the art scene.

Supermodels become life models and pose for painters. Famous example is Lucian Freud`s portrait of a pregnant Kate Moss.

Other luxury brands had famous artists contribute to their collections in particular.  The numerous successful collaborations between Louis Vuitton and artists like Takashi Murakami, Stephen Sprouse and Richard Prince serve as a good example and show the French house`s commitment to the arts.

Zaha Hadid, the Pritzker Price winning architect, who is known for her highly futuristic and curvaceous designs has joined many of those interesting projects as well.  She created the Icone Bag out of moulded plastic for Louis Vuitton and teamed up with Karl Lagerfeld for the 50th anniversary of the Chanel handbag to develop the Chanel Mobile art container, “a museum that can travel”. Her architectually inspired shoes for Melissa and jewelry for Swarovski have already become collectors`pieces.

Last week, it was a busy and important time for all art lovers as the 41th Art Basel took place. Before the opening of the famous art fair, I was very lucky to attend two amazing events in Zurich that inspired me to write this post.

Art in the Park

First, the opening of the fifth annual “Art in the Park” outdoor exhibition that will go through August 1st, this time devoted to Pop Art. If you are living in Zurich, I truly recommend a visit to the beautiful garden of the hotel Baur au Lac where Gigi Kracht, the show`s creator and curator, shows in cooperation with Zurich`s Galerie Gmurzynska many impressive works, including the famous “Lucky Numbers One through Zero” by Robert Indiana, gigantic installations of cereal boxes with interesting insinuations by young and hyped Finish artist Jani Leinonen and sculptures by Allen Jones and Rotraut, the widow of Yves Klein and sister of Günther Ücker, just to name a few of the oustanding pieces. At the dinner I was sitting next to Jani Leinonen who gave me an impressive insight into his works and we had a great conversation about fashion and art.

Jani Leinonen next to his work

Art in the Park`s curator Gigi Kracht with Rotraut to the left and Jani Leinonen to the right

Allen Jones in front of his sculpture

Jani Leinonen with me in Prada in front of Zaha Hadid`s amazing installation

On Sunday, I saw Jani again when Galerie Gmurzynska opened the exhibition Zaha Hadid and Suprematism. Drawing on Zaha Hadid`s formative inspiration from the masters of the Russian Avant-garde, the famous architect both curated and designed this historical exhibition. I loved the unbelievable installation in which the exhibition is taking place. The works of the recently named one of the 100 Most Influential of People of 2010 by TIME Magazine come in a variety of mediums. Enjoy the photos. The exhibition at the Galerie Gmurzynska will go through September 30th.

Hadid Installation and Malevich

Interior Design

Objects

Zaha Hadid at the exhibition with Chanel`s turquoise nail polish Nouvelle Vague on her toes. I wonder if she reads Sandra`s Closet?!

At previews, I always love to observe what people are wearing. To borrow the cliché, Marni, Yohji Yamamoto, Comme des Garçons and Prada are loved by the art crowd. Said to be intellectual fashion.

As I just met Allen Jones, Jani Leinonen and Zaha Hadid, I got inspired by their works to put together some great oufits. Have a look below. I hope that you will like them.

LoL, Sandra

Some of my own Murakami - Louis Vuitton pieces that I collected over the years.

I love Louis Vuitton`s Cosmic Blossom flower power and will surely get a piece for my little Murakami collection!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Louis Vuitton and © Sandra Bauknecht