Sandra‘s Closet

“Eco-Chic” is one of the keywords for next summer and hay fever seems to be a new tropical flu. Natural materials some even with a rough character to them were major on the runways.

At Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld manifested the ecological trend by sending his models carrying whicker baskets on their arms down the haystack aisle. He along with many other designers used raffia, woven cords and other faux-rustic fabrics for a variety of unexpected creations.

Black and White is always a great combination and was seen a lot on the runways. For winter houndstooth was a must-have. For the upcoming summer 2010, stripes, op-art and graphic prints, some of them with an influence of ethnic ornaments, appeared on the runways.The top by Gareth Pugh is on sale at www.brownsfashion.com and a great buy for the next season.

If you are not so into patterns, you can also achieve the look with an accessory like a black belt on a white dress or combine the two colours by wearing a light top and a dark skirt or vice versa.

Designers made colour one of the essential elements for their spring/summer collections. Turquoise, fuchsia, apple green and pale pink are at the top, all with a little touch of the 70`s.

Colourful accessories with beautiful details are a great way to turn up the va-va-voom factor as they will make an outfit look ultra-fashion forward and you will need just one single piece for that effect.

LoL, Sandra

The ethnic influence is undeniable this spring/summer. Numerous were the sources of inspirations that designers used for their creations. Embroideries, coloured beads, leather thongs and pompoms appeared everywhere. Embellishment is not the only important factor, to my eye the shape is essential, too. A lot of “gym bags” combined with add-on charms and tassels were seen on the runways. A leader of the trend is Marc Jacobs with his collection for Louis Vuitton.  You should definitely get your hands on one of those bags. Good luck!

LoL, Sandra

Next season you should invest in something that is very à la mode but will always be in style: exotic leather! Snakeskin was seen everywhere on the runways and there are especially many beautiful bags to dream of. You could think about a classic piece like the python model by Devi Kroell, or get one of those amazing big clutches by Nancy Gonzalez. These will accent your outfit perfectly and will be a companion for many years. My favourite one is this incredible Alexander McQueen clutch. I love the shape, the colours, the design…. it is just perfect!

If you want to take it a step further, go crocodile! The price might be breathtaking but envision it as the foundation of your outfit. Sometimes it is better to prioritize and invest in one timeless piece to make you feel instantly fabulous.

Kristin Davis was spotted at the set of the new Sex and the City movie carrying this stunning croc tote by Nancy Gonzalez (who is by the way one of the most celebrated handbag designers in the world and a great address to get high-quality precious skin models). The bag – that also comes in black – can accessorize every outfit perfectly. I would opt for a bold colour as this will enlighten everyday basics immediately and will make you look so stylish! Always keep in mind the only limit is your creativity!

LoL, Sandra

One of the trends for accessories next season is transparency. PVC and plexiglass are used as major materials for shoes and bags. The Prada tote with the leather handles and the detachable case will be a good choice for flying as you could probably avoid discussions with the security guards. The other positive aspect might be that you will find all your  personal belongings very easily…… but be careful others will do, too! Besides you better be very tidy and have no hidden secrets!

A gorgeous choice are the Prada mules with the plexiglass heel and the crystal chandelier details.

I am looking forward to seeing your life in your bag.

LoL, Sandra

I love Boots therefore I wanted to show you all these stunning pieces for summer. For the hot season there is no need to be practical so it is all about design and probably providing a little air (who likes sweaty feet?!). Cutout details, open toe booties (keep your winter ones), strapped sandal ones- there are so many beautiful details to talk about. It is the shock of contrast that gives it that little special twist I so adore.

I am crazy for the stretch boots with knee pads by Pierre Hardy that I would combine with a beautiful white one-shouldered dress like the one by Tibi. Put some bangles on, a little Grecian style hairpiece and you will truly look like a goddess!

LoL, Sandra

The Birkin Bag was launched and named after the famous actress and singer, Jane Birkin in 1984. During a flight Jane Birkin was sitting next to Hermès-CEO Jean Louis Dumas and told him about her problems finding the perfect shaped and seized bag. She described him her dream model that she received shortly after that incident.

The Birkin Bag was born. It is a fashion icon- to me incredibly amazing- a mixture of a classic piece worth investing in and a total trend item. Many famous ladies carry this model. Victoria Beckham is said to own over a hundred.

But even if you have the money to buy it, does not mean you can. There are long waitlists in the Hermès stores. And in general it is even hard to get on that list. There are even waitlists for the waitlists and if you manage to get on, you have to be patient for approximately 2 years. But if you are lucky, the minute the orange box is opened, your heart will start beating faster. That bag is a real treasure and even comes with a rain cover for it. Besides it is a great investment because you can resell it at the same price you bought it, even after having used it.

There is a great book about all the different and funny stories to get one: „Bringing Home the Birkin“ by Michael Tonello. If you want to have an easy access to a real one: www.luxury-shops.com and www.créateursdeluxe.com sell new and used models in excellent condition. Watch out, the minute they come in, they go.

LoL, Sandra