Sandra‘s Closet

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and Lancôme has come up with a pretty cool idea.

For the launch of “Rouge in Love”, its new range of lipstick, Lancôme sets the web buzzing with a unique video clip directed by Adria Petty and set to music by Brigitte.

“Rouge In Love” is Lancôme’s new it-lipstick. Available in 24 trendy colours and endorsed by the British actress Emma Watson, it will be available from the beginning of February 2012. To celebrate it over the Valentine’s Day period, Lancôme has chosen Publicis 133 Lux and Digitas France to create a film event directed by the New York director Adria Petty, famous for her video clips for Beyoncé and Regina Spektor.

In a demonstration of style and creative daring, the director gives us her vision of ultra-modern glamour in 60 seconds bursting with cutting-edge pop references. Taking you through dynamic, colourful urban environments from London to New-York via Paris, the clip shows women’s lips tinted in pink, red or purple, all singing the same song – “Oh La La” by the popular French duo Brigitte (Aurélie Maggiori and Sylvie Hoarau).

The duo has rewritten the lyrics of its iconic track especially for Rouge in Love. This film, a declaration of love and desire for colour in all its forms, was revealed yesterday worldwide on the web! What is more to say than love your lips!

And enjoy the beautiful photos and the video at the end of this post.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: ©Lancôme/2012

Here is your rockstar look:

Satin-trimmed wool-crepe jacket and stretch-leather skinny pants, both by Balmain, printed cotton-jersey tank and skull leather box clutch, both by Alexander McQueen and Masako silk-satin pumps by Charlotte Olympia.

Here is your rockstar scent:

Paco Rabanne Black XS L’Excès and Black XS L’Excès For Her embody the excess of the rock world.

Black XS L’Excès combines top notes of Calabrian lemon and lavender with an ozonic, cypriol and citrus accord and a deep, sensual amber woody base.

Eau de Toilette Intense
100ml CHF 99.00 
50ml CHF 77.00

Black XS L’Excès For Her opens with top notes of neroli and black pepper, leading to heart notes of jasmine queen of the night and rose absolute and a base of cashmere wood.

Eau de Parfum Intense
80ml CHF 106.00 
50ml CHF 87.00
30ml CHF 62.00

Available now!
With a skull on the packaging and the bottle!

Punk rock icon Iggy Pop is the face for Black XS L’Excès and the beautiful Sasha Pivovarova stars in the video campaign alongside Nick Rea, see below.

Now it is time for you to put your rocker face on!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Paco Rabanne Fragrances

With the ongoing neon trend, Bobbi Brown’s spring 2012 collection Neons & Nudes is the perfect make-up look to complement your new bright outfits. This season, Bobbi’s mixing easy-to-wear neutrals with bright jolts of colour.

„I love the juxtaposition of subtle with not-so-subtle colours – it’s about highlighting one feature at a time.“

–Bobbi Brown

I recommend getting a bright orange lipstick and wearing it for example with a neon pink sweater. Keep the rest of your make-up simple and neutral.

NEW! Limited Edition
Lip Gloss
Citrus, Cosmic Pink and Ultra Violet, each CHF 35.-

NEW! Limited Edition
Lip Colour
Atomic Orange, Neon Pink and Ueber Beige
each CHF 35.-

NEW! Blush 
Nude Peach and Nude Pink, each CHF 41.-

NEW! Limited Edition
Ultra Nudes Eyeshadow Palette

Including 6 classic shades: Stone Eye Shadow, Chino Eye Shadow, Pink Chandelier Metallic Eye Shadow, Praline Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow, Champagne Truffle Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow and Cocoa Berry Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow.
CHF 88.-

Cosmetic Bag, CHF 48.-

As for me, I like to emphasize my eyes and therefore love Bobbi’s new two bright eyeshadows:
Bluebell Eyeshadow and Ultra Violet Shimmer Eye Shadow, each CHF 37.-

I freshen the look then with a nude blush and neutral lips. My favourites: Blush in Nude Pink, Lip Colour in Ueber Beige and Lip Gloss in Ultra Violet.

All products are in stores now!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and Courtesy of Bobbi Brown

The three well-known fragrances from the Chanel Chance family, the original Chance (2003) with amber and spicy elements and a floral top note, the Chance Eau Fraîche (2007), a sharper floral scent with fresh vetiver, citron and teak wood notes and the Chance Eau Tendre (2010), a “fruity floral” with grapefruit, white musk and jasmine scents, come now in a handy “twist & spray” version.

Choose your favourite “Chance” version and get it in an atomiser that fits in the palm of your hand, making it easy to use and easy to carry in your handbag. It is the perfect addition for all “Chance” fans among you.

Chanel has also created three new Chance body products. Available in Switzerland in the end of January 2012.

LoL, Sandra

CHANCE

The decidedly young scent for those who dare to dream.

– Eau de Toilette Vaporisateur  Sac 3 x 20 ml CHF 118.-

CHANCE Eau Fraîche

The unexpected fragrance. . . Sparkling, spirited, surprising.

– Vaporisateur Sac 3 x 20 ml CHF 118.-
– Lait Fondant pour le Corps 200 ml CHF 68.-

CHANCE Eau Tendre

Tender yet vibrant. . . the fragrance of a woman who embraces her chance

– Vaporisateur Sac 3 x 20 ml CHF 118.-
– Lait Fondant pour le Corps 200 ml CHF 68.-
– Gel Moussant pour la Douche 200 ml CHF 60.-

Today, I would like to introduce you to the new extra-firming range of Clarins. The reason for my trip to the Royal Monceau in Paris last month.

Clarins Multi-Régénérante has been the anti-age cream in France since 15 years with 1.9 million sold each year. You might ask what is the reason for changing such a bestselling product?

Dr. Lionel de Benetti with me

Dr. Lionel de Benetti, Clarins’ chief scientist, who has dedicated over 30 years to the brand’s development and who is probably the most charismatic scientist on earth with the capability to explain his research findings in a fun and easy-to-understand way has found new little molecules that helped him to reveal the links behind firmness.

So-called emilin-1 is a component of the elastic fibre which acts to keep the collagen fibres together. After 40, its release diminishes and the skin looses its firmness. Lionel de Benetti has found out, that organic lemon thyme extracts can help to augment the emilin-1 synthesis more than 50% and that green banana in combination with bocoa tree extracts preserve the connections between fibres and cells.

The result: The appearance of wrinkles is visibly reduced, facial contours are reshaped and features are younger-looking.

An immediate “lifting” effect. Oat sugars instantly smooth away fine lines, while hyaluronic acid replenishes skin. 
The texture is the most sensual that you can imagine, inspired by the most luxurious fabrics. It leaves the skin velvety-soft with a matte finish allowing for easy make-up application.

Multi-Régénérante Jour – Crème lift anti-rides – Toutes peaux 50ml
(Extra-Firming Day – Wrinkle lifting cream – All skin types) 1.7 Oz.
CHF 109.-

or

Multi-Régénérante Jour – Crème lift anti-rides – Spéciale peaux sèches 50ml
(Extra-Firming Day – Wrinkle lifting cream – Special for dry skin) 1.7 Oz.
CHF 109.-

or

Multi-Régénérante Jour – Fluide lift anti-rides SPF 15 – Toutes peaux 50ml
(Extra-Firming Day – Wrinkle lifting lotion – All skin types) 1.7 Oz.
CHF 105.-

Me at the press conference in Paris trying out the new products.

Below you can find the ideal component to Extra-Firming day care:

Multi-Régénérante Night (Extra-Firming Night) tones the epidermis for firmer skin with a peptide coming from the stem cell research, so-called Survixyl IS™. It is similar to a protein in the skin and protects stem cells at the origin of epidermal renewal. Stimulen®, a combination of vitamin E and amino acids, reinforces this regenerating action by preserving Langerhans cells, “guardian” cells of the epidermis which defend skin against aggressions.

The result: Because it renews and defends itself better, your skin appears smoother and firmer. The appearance of wrinkles is reduced, facial contours reshaped and features are more defined.

A more even complexion is achieved through lotus extract which prevents the appearance of dark spots. Skin looks rested and radiant.

Multi-Régénérante Nuit – Crème raffermissante – Toutes peaux 50ml
(Extra-Firming Night – Rejuvenating cream – All skin types) 1.7 Oz.
CHF 116.-

or

Multi-Régénérante Nuit – Crème raffermissante – Spéciale peaux sèches 50ml
(Extra-Firming Night – Rejuvenating cream – Special for dry skin) 1.7 Oz.
CHF 116.-

Available end of January 2012.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Clarins, © Sandra Bauknecht

“Chanel gave women freedom, Yves Saint Laurent gave them power”.

After Yves Saint Laurent’s launch of their new Forever Youth Liberator range in Great Britain, it has already become the most hyped skincare in a few days. Counters are taking pre-orders and the wait lists are huge. But what is the magic behind it?

A few years ago Yves Saint Laurent hit the skincare market running with a radical statement: “Youth is a state of mind that cannot live without science.”

The science behind it lies in the groundbreaking technology of Glycobiology. It’s been noted as the future in the medical field, the fruit of more than 100 years of research and recognized by 7 Nobel Prizes.

Naturally found in the skin, glycans plays a crucial role in cutaneous equilibrium. Their level diminishes over time, leading to the “locking” of the cells and blocking the youth process. YSL has identified an innovative combination of glycans, called Glycanactif™, which unlock the cells to reactivate their vital functions and liberate the youth potential at all levels of the skin. Dr. Bruno Bernard, a research fellow at L’Oréal says that “Skin glycans are cellular keys to youthfulnes.”

The proven results: Anti-wrinkle Lift. Plump. Radiance.
The skin is instantly more luminous  and wrinkles are less visible. The skin looks more plumped. With Forever Youth Liberator you can liberate youth within your skin from the age of 30.

The complete YSL Forever Youth Liberator range:

Eye Cream 15ml, CHF 79 / £40
Cleansing Foam 50ml, CHF 55 / £35
Serum 30ml, CHF109 / £60 
Moisturising Lotion 200ml, CHF 55 /£35
Fluid SPF 15 50ml, CHF 129 / £60
Cream (Moisturising Cream) 50ml, CHF 129 / £60
Nutri-Cream (Intense Moisturising Cream) 50ml, CHF 129 / £60

In Switzerland available starting February 2012.
You might consider signing up for the wait list now!

LoL, Sandra

Last week, I went to the presentation of the 15th annabelle Prix de Beauté which was held at the Dolder Grand in Zurich. The presentation could be best described as the “Swiss Beauty Oscars”. I felt very honoured because I was asked to be in the jury.

The highly coveted “Anna” trophy.

My task? Test 100 beauty products in the category facial care. No problem at all!

For my Swiss based readers: All the winners of the different categories will be published in the annabelle 04-2012 magazine which will be available starting February 22, 2012. From March 2-17, 2012 all the awarded products will be displayed at Manor in Zurich.

Some of the winners were already featured on Sandra’s Closet such as the Diorskin Forever Foundation or the Idealist Even Skintone Illuminator by Estée Lauder.

Below you can see what I wore to the event. I hope that you will like it.

LoL, Sandra

My look: Bouclé-tweed mini dress by Alexander McQueen (40% off on sale), lace-appliquéd mesh knee boots by Valentino (70% off on sale), pearl necklace by Lanvin, lace-print bag by Prada (from a previous season) and Lady Exalibur watch by Roger Dubuis.

Photos: ©Sandra Bauknecht

Last month, I was invited by Clarins to Paris for the launch of their newest products (stay tuned for the upcoming post on those amazing new beauty must-haves). I stayed at the Royal Monceau where the presentation and dinner also took place. One of the reasons why Clarins chose this newly renovated hotel that was re-imagined by the famous Philippe Starck is their amazing My Blend by Clarins (a new revolutionary approach on personalized skincare) spa.

Le Royal Monceau has always embodied “Parisian elegance” in all its spontaneity, culture and sagacity. Philippe Starck captured the spirit in perfection. The Royal Monceau is one of the nicest hotels I stayed in recently and I can only recommend it. Please see for yourself!

My look: Patchwork coat by Louis Vuitton, silk-crepe top by Vionnet, alpaca and wool gilet by Gucci, stretch-leather leggings by The Row, scarf by Chanel, Pistol leather ankle boots by Acne and animal-print Boston bag by Céline.

I travelled for the first time with my new Victorinox Spectra trolley (Thank you!) that works as a carry-on luggage perfectly and has a lot of space.

Some impressions of my room.

View from my hotel room.

Clarins Spa offers 4 new spa body treatments with 18 new exclusive PRO formula products. The Body Sculptor, The Moisture Quencher, The Firming Age Corrector and The Body Polisher are based upon a selection of masks, supplements and pure plant body oils from the PRO range, chosen by the therapist to meet your skin’s individual needs. The Clarins PRO products are truly amazing and are totally working their magic. All treatments are done manually which is the best to me. To search for the Clarins institut nearest to you, please click here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

A city arises from the middle of nowhere in a feverish vision, like a mirage. Under the azure blue of a cloudless sky, Las Vegas keeps the desert dust at bay in the hypnotic ballet of neon lights. Along the Strip, the luxury hotels and casinos set the scene for a modern fairytale in which all dreams are possible. Amongst them stands the Bellagio Hotel. Its sumptuous gallery will welcome an entirely remodeled CHANEL boutique in end of this month.

Peter Philips, Creative Director of CHANEL Makeup, creates a gold-plated collection and strews stardust over polyester dreams.

The iconic gold of CHANEL elegance slips into every texture. A silky powder on the skin, sunny lacquer on the nails or a sheer whisper on the lips, it highlights a radiant face that’s on a lucky streak.

LUCKY STRIPES

The Exclusive Creation of the collection concentrates the entire spirit of Las Vegas in its traditional square case. Lined up in rows, four shades of sand and bronze sweep through every variation of a fabulous desert in which gold embraces the sun and shines. On the surface of the colours, an embossed star design seems to extend a warmwelcome to the city of dreams. For an illuminating makeover, a beveled brush is ideal for choosing and blending shades, sweeping lightly over the cheekbones, face or eyelids.

CHF 85.-

ROUGE COCO SHINE BRILLANT

The extremely melt-away texture and playful spirit of the most mischievous CHANEL lipstick get into the game with a total golden look. BRILLANT: faithful to the style of Coco Chanel, its sheer golden shade gives a fun twist to the traditional codes ofelegance.

CHF 46.-

LE CRAYON LÈVRES VEGAS GOLD

It accentuates the centre of the upper lip with a golden line. A makeup tip that adds a touch of light and emphasizes the fullness of a sparkling smile.

CHF 34.-

LE VERNIS GOLD FINGERS

A semi-sheer golden lacquer glides over nails like a talisman for a Midas touch.

In Switzerland available starting February 20, 2012 in CHANEL stores only.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Chanel

Here is an idea what you could also do with Dior’s smoky palettes. Those eyeshadow trios work great for the perfect smoky eyes look. Each palette contains a base plus a toning matte and iridescent shade. The rich colour pigments stay on very well.

Smoky Black, Smoky Blue, Smoky Nude, Smoky Pink, Smoky Brown, Smoky Garden and Smoky Violet (last two available soon), each CHF 68.

LoL, Sandra