Sandra‘s Closet

Are you planning your festive look for New Year’s Eve? Check out GUERLAIN‘s holiday make-up collection that has some gorgeous, limited edition, collector’s pieces. Comparing to what other luxury brands have been releasing this winter, GUERLAIN is surely one that got the attention of many. I don’t want to keep you waiting any longer so let’s begin.

GOLD PALETTE (LIMITED EDITION) – CHF 105.00
In a lacquered compact with stylised palm leaf motifs inspired by Art Déco style, nestled in a black and gold case, the new Guerlain Gold Palette offers a complete make-up set (face, eyes, brows and lips) to create a Gold & Chic look that’s a must for spending New Year’s Eve with the Great Gatsby. Its Wet & Dry texture lets you intensify the colours each time you wet the brush. The shades can be applied on their own or layered, dry or wet, for a buildable result rising in a crescendo, from day to night.

METEORITES GOLD LIGHTS (LIMITED EDITION) – CHF 80.00
This refined box in the style of an antique jewel holds the delicate Météorites pearls. For the first time this year, they come in golden colours (white, yellow, pink, champagne). This unique combination enfolds the complexion like a beautiful piece of jewellery that lights up the face. The Gold Pearl Météorites bathe skin in a halo of light, revealing all of its radiance.

TERRACOTTA GOLD LIGHT (LIMITED EDITION) – CHF 80.00

It perfectly enhances your natural sun-kissed glow and catches the light thanks to the precious hints of gold contained in the formula. It’s made with incredibly fine mother-of-pearl and imitates the dazzling light of skin that’s been left silky by the sun. Enriched with moisturizing active ingredients, it won’t dry out the skin and it ensures lasting comfort.

ROUGE G DE GUERLAIN LIPCOLOR (LIMITED EDITION) – 65.50
Cast in a gold and black fine jewellery pack that reveals a mirror on opening, Rouge G adorns your lips with an incandescent stroke of colour. This season, Guerlain has designed two exclusive (limited-edition) shades for its star lipstick. Ultra-pigmented, creamy and plumping, it lets us play with different intensities and stays true on our lips all night long.

• 822 Glamorous Cherry – this red illuminates the complexion of brunettes
• 823 Flaming Red – creates an intense effect for blondes

GOLD LIGHT TOPCOAT (LIMITED EDITION) – CHF 33.00
A limited-edition topcoat in Gold Light to dress your lashes, eyebrows and hair with precious hints of gold.

Enjoy your week!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Guerlain

What if your instincts were guided by your sense of smell,
leading you towards new adventures?
What was long suspected has finally been proven…
the power of scent unconsciously influences our behaviour.

My avid readers know that I am a perfume junkie and I love niche fragrances. This week, I came along a new scent that I have fallen in love within a second: PSYCHEDELIC LOVE by INITIO from the Carnal Blends collection.

FLORAL POWDERY
Bergamot, Rose, Hedione, Heliotropin, Myrrh, Vanilla, Almond and Patchouli
CHF 199.00 (90ml)

A transgressive reference to psychedelic trips, this fetishist composition has the effect of a double-action bomb: first, it triggers an immense, addictive and egotistical pleasure, before diffusing itself and titillating its target, who is left completely hooked.

What is this scent of subversion?
Stupefying fragrance – The signature of this narcotic bomb lies in three essential ingredients: rose, hedione and heliotropin.

While hedione activates the brain regions linked to pleasure and the libido, heliotropin goes even further. Equally tender and illicit, this crystalline powder hides its intentions well. Beware of its creamy, powdery and floral facets, wavering between vanilla and almond!

Used in over doses, heliotropin becomes a psychoactive substance. A forbidden shiver rushes over the skin. A substance under strict regulations. Its possession is strictly controlled by law, because heliotropin is used for the chemical synthesis of MDA, a prohibited drug and substitute for ecstasy. Confronted with this diabolical indulgence, no one is safe from an olfactory obsession that can soon become a real addiction!

Scientists have long rejected the idea that certain fragrances are capable of releasing sex hormones. However, a team of researchers from Bochum University (Germany) demonstrated that specific scented molecules known as hedione (methyl dihydrojasmonate) can activate brain regions linked to the libido, triggering impulses and attraction in their wake.

This discovery led to the creation of Carnal Blends, an unprecedented collection by INITIO in which all of the formulas are enriched with hedione – a word very aptly derived from the Greek hedone (meaning «pleasure»), a mysterious molecule that plays the role of the final detonator.
Each of these fragrances dares to showcase fantasy raw materials, carnal notes and passionate, distinctive accords, celebrating rebellious olfactory compositions capable of arousing pleasure and inciting physical attraction.

INITIO takes fragrances to new heights, with enhanced powers that defy the imagination.
Wild nature and the science of pheromones fuse deeply together within the formulas, working their magic imperceptibly. The Magnetic Blends, that include a pheromonal molecule, are great to be blended. I adore wearing MAGNETIC BLEND 7 (Musks – CHF 190.00 (90ml)) under PSYCHEDELIC LOVE.

INITIO fragrances stir your instincts. Ladies, no man is safe anymore. Trust me, those are the sexiest scents on the planet! You will thank me forever…

In Zurich available at Jelmoli.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Initio

Singer and songwriter Sia has been announced as the newest spokeswoman for MAC’s VIVA GLAM lipstick. The cosmetic brand’s iconic campaign to raise awareness and money for HIV/AIDS was created in 1994, at a time when the pandemic was dramatically affecting fashion communities in particular as well as the wider world.

This year, the pop star’s debut lipstick is a warm and bright red shade named VIVA GLAM Sia. The color is meant to speak to the artist’s avant-garde style and boundary pushing persona.

All proceeds from the VIVA GLAM products go to ending HIV/AIDS and the campaign has raised over $470 million to date. Sia joins an impressive lineup of former VIVA GLAM faces, including, Nicki Minaj (2012), Miley Cyrus (2014/2015) Rihanna (2014) and Ariana Grande (2015/2016), among others.

In Switzerland, the lipstick will be available for CHF 28.00 at all MAC locations from January 28th and online here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of MAC Cosmetics
#VIVAGLAM

You know it is Christmas when a beautiful jewelry box arrives at your doorstep filled with two amazing new fragrances and a handwritten note by Aerin Lauder.

The new AERIN Tuberose collection is dedicated to one of my favorite flowers, the tuberose that imparts two different fragrances depending on when it is harvested—a dewy femininity at dawn, and a rich intoxicating fragrance at dusk.

The new duo of scents aims to capture the different personalities of this incredible flower with two fragrances, luminous Tuberose Le Jour and sensual Tuberose Le Soir. These scents can be worn to suit different moods, occasions, and times of day.

Tuberose Le Jour Eau de Parfum

With the first spritz, you’ll immediately notice the sweet notes of Orange Blossom and Neroli before the fresh scent evolves into a floral heart of Indian Tuberose and Jasmine. Cedar and Cashmere Wood rounds it off nicely while adding just the right amount of warmth.

Tuberose Le Soir Eau de Parfum

This one is a slightly darker, more powdery version of the label’s Tuberose Le Jour scent. It opens with sweet notes of Mandarin Orange rounded out by a heart of Bergamot Tuberose and Ylang-Ylang. It closes with a warm base of Vanilla, Sandalwood and Amber.

Aerin, why did you create two fragrances—Tuberose Le Jour and Tuberose Le Soir—instead of one?

In India, the Tuberose is known as Rajanigandha, which translates as “fragrant at night.” Depending on the time of day, the Tuberose gives different scent impressions: dewy femininity at dawn, and a rich intoxicating fragrance at dusk. We wanted to capture the beauty of Tuberose in its entirety with two scents that embody its differing personalities. Together the fragrances tell the complete story of this incredible bloom.

What type of woman did you have in mind when creating these fragrances?

The Tuberose Collection is for the modern woman—feminine, strong, and sophisticated. It is aimed at someone who appreciates the luxury and authenticity of wearing an artisanal fragrance blended from the finest ingredients.

What was the inspiration behind the packaging?

Reminiscent of fine jewelry, each translucent glass bottle is adorned with a suede-like cord and golden cap. The fragrance names are engraved on a golden plaque. The color of the suede-like outer carton complements each fragrance’s story and character—a pale pink for the delicate yet luminous Tuberose Le Jour, and a creamy rose for the rich and sensual Tuberose Le Soir.

Do you consider Tuberose Le Jour and Tuberose Le Soir strictly day and night fragrances?

It depends on the mood and the occasion, but I love the versatility of both scents. They can be worn at opposite ends of the day to capture each fragrance’s inspiration or layered together to create a unique scent altogether.

First of all, you know that I am a big fan of niche fragrances but there are some scents that have been popular since many years that I adore as well. For example the two cult perfumes CLASSIQUE und LE MÂLE by Jean Paul Gaultier. The man’s version is for me one of the most seductive scents a man can wear… it smells so incredibly good. Moreover it is the most popular man’s fragrance among women. And here comes the great news, those two classics have dressed up for the festive season and present themselves inside a limited edition snow globe. How cute is that?!

CLASSIQUE for women Christmas Collector
Eau de Toilette 100ml, CHF 142.00

ORIENTAL FLORAL

Top notes: Mandarin orange, star anise, bergamot, rose, pear and orange blossom
Middle notes: Plum, ginger, iris, ylang-ylang, orchid and tuberose
Base notes: Musk, cinnamon, vanilla, sandalwood and amber

LE MÂLE for men Christmas Collector
Eau de Toilette 125ml, CHF 112.00

ORIENTAL FOUGERE
Top notes: Mint, lavender, artemisia, bergamot and cardamom
Middle notes: Caraway, orange blossom and cinnamon
Base notes: Vanilla, sandalwood, tonka bean, amber and cedar 

In Switzerland only available from now at Manor.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Jean Paul Gaultier

After the launch of AMBER MUSC in 2013 and ROSE MUSC in 2016, Narciso Rodriguez is launching a new fragrance to complement his Oriental Musc Editions this fall: SANTAL MUSC.

All three stand for pure luxury: addictive modern classics created through a masterful synchrony of East and West. Dedicated to discerning fragrance connoisseurs, I invite you to have a closer look:

AMBER MUSC (2013)

The quintessential fragrance. For centuries, the distinctive nature of both amber and musc have captured a sublime sensuality as scent dissolves into skin. Narciso Rodriguez melds the two iconic notes as one in this captivating Eau de Parfum Intense.

“The idea for the amber musc was to honor two great periods of fragrance with my own modern interpretation,” says Narciso Rodriguez, “and the results have been beyond my dream.”

The perfumer Aurélien Guichard synthesizes a golden balsamic accord with the smoky sweetness of oud wood, the illusive nature of incense and the lush smoothness of black patchouli to create a dusky palette. Narciso Rodriguez’s signature musc acts as a luminous counterpoint to this palette, softened by orange blossom.

ROSE MUSC (2016)

The poetic symbol of perfection in the annals of perfumery: rose, a most mythical ingredient. In both Eastern and Western culture, its rich yet delicate scent has served as the synonym of fragrance for over a millennium. For this creation, the world’s most iconic flower meets an equally iconic note, the signature musc of the famous designer.

“I was very passionate about the idea of creating a new fragrance using rose, the ultimate symbol of refinement, and musc, which is more raw,” says Narciso Rodriguez. “The process to find the precise scent was very challenging and I think we met the challenge.”

The perfumer Sonia Constant has obtained the supreme rose absolute for rose musc from Morocco. Golden saffron lends vibrancy to the top notes as a hint of labdanum adds a unique opulence to the heart of musc. Spicy black pepper and dusky patchouli further refines its intensity.

SANTAL MUSC (2017)

This new beautiful fragrance captures a discreet luxury that’s addictive by transcending boundaries. Narciso Rodriguez conceives a provocative balance of soft woody accords and bright florals with delicacy and nuance. Santal musc reinterprets the masculine-feminine with a sensuality both illusive and potent. It is a surprising contrast of deep warmth and silky softness.

“The santal musc was meant to be an entirely unique fragrance—very magnetic, very intriguing,” says Narciso Rodriguez, “I wanted to capture beauty and desire in a scent that both men and women would covet.”

Sonia Constant and Caroline Sabas create a transformative fragrance, bold yet enigmatic, with eclectic woody accords and floral notes.  The signature heart of musc is surrounded by sumptuous amber accords, sandalwood and vetiver heightened by fresh ylang flowers and a hint of cardamom spice.

Available as Eau de Parfum Intense for CHF 229.00 (100ml).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Narciso Rodriguez

Glowing skin, make-an-entrance shades for lips and eyes, must-have accessories and made-to-be-gifted palettes. Bobbi Brown‘s holiday edit makes it easy to ace party season.

CAVIAR & RUBIES COLLECTION

With the holiday season now on the horizon, beauty brand Bobbi Brown is getting in the festive mood with this its new “Caviar & Rubies” makeup collection that features items for the eyes and skin and that makes me just want to buy it for the name alone!

Bobbi Brown Caviar & Rubies Limited Edition Eyeshadow Palette – CHF 110.00
Bobbi Brown Caviar & Rubies Limited Edition Highlighting Powder – CHF 72.00
Bobbi Brown Caviar & Rubies Luxe Lip Color – CHF 47.00

STOCKING FILLERS

Bobbi Brown Evening Glow Eye Shadow Palette – CHF 74.00

Bobbi Brown Travel Brush Set – CHF 159.00

OPULENT GIFTS

Bobbi Brown Luxe Classics Mini Lip Set – CHF 169.00
Bellini – Uber Beige – Bond – Bahama Brown – Uber Rose – Tahiti Pink – Flame – Plum Brandy – Red Velvet – Imperial Red

Bobbi Brown Beauty Case – CHF 199.00

Bobbi Brown Deluxe Beauty Trunk – CHF 288.00

All products are in stores now.
BOBBI BROWN IS ALSO AVAILABLE ONLINE AT NET-A-PORTER.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics

Such great news! Tom Ford Lips & Boys goes to the fourth round by introducing 50 girls to his celebrated Lip Color collection. Named after women he admires in his daily life, from intimates to collaborators from around the world, the girls limited-edition collection debuts in clutch-sized, ivory and gold packaging. Designed to be worn on their own or layered with one another, each transforming color and finish amplifies a woman or man’s individuality, while inciting an insatiable desire to try more than one.

From lip color sheer in Lisa, Carine, and Amber to ultra-rich lip color in Emma, Grace, and Sasha, there’s a shade and finish for every girl. All shades are pictured below.

Tom Ford Lips & Boys Lip Colors for Fall 2017: Alain, Charles, Connor, Federico, Magnus, Warren

Boys & Girls also introduces six new cream shades of boys showcased in a sleek, clutch-sized mahogany and gold case.

TO SHOP THE LIMITED EDITION TOM FORD BOYS & GIRLS LIP COLOR COLLECTION, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Tom Ford Boys & Girls Lip Color Sheers: Row 1 – Alexis, Alicia, Amber, Beatrice, Carine; Row 2- Carolyn, Edita, Ellie, Fabiola, Greta

Tom Ford Boys & Girls Lip Color Sheers: Row 1: Ingrid, Isamaya, Julianne, Lara, Leigh; Row 2: Lena, Lily, Lisa, Marguerite, Natalia; Row 3: Nico, Nina, Rinko, Romy, Scarlett

Tom Ford Boys & Girls Ultra-Rich Lip Colors: Row 1 – Anne, Ashley, Bianca, Dakota, Emma; Row 2 – Gala, Georgie, Grace, Ines, Isla

Tom Ford Boys & Girls Ultra-Rich Lip Colors: Row 1- Joan, Katherine, Kyra, Loulou, Mariko; Row 2 – Marisa, Monica, Naomi, Rosie, Sasha; Row 3 – Sophia, Valentina, Violet, Zelda, Zoe

Photos: Courtesy of Tom Ford Beauty

Last month, when I visited Milan with my daughter, I took her to the Teatro alla Scala, the famous opera house in Milan, which is regarded as one of the leading theatres in the world. Most of Italy’s greatest operatic artists, and many of the finest singers from around the world, have appeared at La Scala. We enjoyed the German opera «Der Freischütz» by Carl Maria von Weber. Being considered the first important German Romantic opera, especially in its national identity and stark emotionality, it was a true pleasure to see it in our mother tongue surrounded by the stunning ambiance of La Scala.

My look: Ruffle-trimmed single-breasted wool coat, ruffle bow dress, embellished leather pumps, and Sylvie mini buckle leather shoulder bag, all by Gucci. Choker with evil eye symbol by Chanel, diamond rose ring and Limelight Gala watch, both by Piaget.

My scent: Gucci Bloom Eau de Parfum, which is the first fragrance developed wholly under Alessandro Michele’s creative vision and blended by master perfumer Alberto Morillas. The beautiful powdery floral scent features tuberose and jasmine combined with rangoon creeper, also called Chinese honeysuckle, which is a unique flower discovered in South India that is being used for the first time in perfumery to create a rich fragrance that transports its wearer to an imaginary garden.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
A big thank you to my daughter for taking them!

Find your rhythm. All eyes are on the cool kids, hanging out, swaying to the beat, showing off with a little festive flirtation. You’re the sleighbelle of the ball, dancing until morning, feeling alive, reveling in the new generation. The lights catch a crystal and glitter snowflake adornment, all the bling you’ll ever need – everyone goes starstruck. See you on the dance floor.

Were you a good girl this year? MAC Cosmetics has launched some products for the festive season you’ll surely want to be asking for from Santa. If not, the problem is yours so be ready to be a bad girl with your wallet. The new «Snow Ball» holiday collection is absolutely enchanting.

SO OBSESSED MINI LIPS, CHF 89.00 (LIMITED EDITION)

Below are all the beauties, from snowflake-embossed eye-shadow singles in shimmery shades to a to die for lip kit of 12 minis, topped of by shiny silver and gold makeup brush sets.

GOLD LASHES, CHF 19.00 (LIMITED EDITION)

My favorites? The set of gold false eyelashes. How much fun are those? I mean if there is any time of the year to really shine… it is the holiday season!

LoL, Sandra

EXTRA DIMENSION EYESHADOW, CHF 28.00 (LIMITED EDITION)

DELICATE DRIFT Light pink with sparkle
FROSTWINKED White with silver pearl
IT’S SNOWING Pinky purple shimmer
STARRY STARRY NIGHTS Black with silver sparkle
STYLISHLY MERRY Gold shimmer

SNOWBALL FACE POWDER, CHF 41.00 (LIMITED EDITION)

HERE COMES JOY Peachy gold with shimmer
HAPPY GO DAZZINGLY Gold with sparkle

LIPSTICK, CHF 28.00 (LIMITED EDITION)

WARM ICE Dull light pink with silver sparkle (Frost)
SHIMMER AND SPICE Dusty rose with shimmer (Frost)
HOLIDAY CRUSH Muted pink with sparkle (Frost)
I’M GLISTENING Light pink with purple sparkle (Frost)
ROUGE EN SNOW Apple red (Matte)
ELLE BELLE Deep red (Amplified)

In stores now.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of MAC Cosmetics