Sandra‘s Closet

Today, I would like to tell you about Penhaligon’s newest fragrance launch which is a mythical love story: Endymion Concentré EDP and Luna EDT.

In ancient Greek mythology, Endymion, the most handsome son of Zeus, was placed into a perpetual slumber by the Goddess of the Moon so that she could gaze upon him forever, his stunning face unmarked by the passage of time. The wishes of the Goddess were granted, and Endymion slept on for all eternity, his smile everlasting. And no wonder, for he spent his life forever dreaming that he held the moon, Luna, gently in his arms.

ENDYMION Concentré Eau De Parfum (for men)
Semi-Oriental

Top notes: Bergamot, Lavender, Sage
Middle notes: Geranium, Suede Accord
Base notes: Leather, Incense, Nutmeg

Endymion is a firmly established part of the Penhaligon’s collection, and now the fragrance house has launched a concentrated new version, an intense eau de parfum. To partner this iconic scent, Penhaligon’s has created Luna, a new fresh floral, that offers a feminine counterpart to the woody leather notes of Endymion Concentré.

Inspired by the light of a magnificent crescent moon that brightens one’s dreams, this luxurious new fragrance captures the intoxicating spirit of the mythical Goddess of the Moon. Hypnotic and sensual, Luna shines up from the dark water, illuminating the ink-coloured night sky.

LUNA Eau de Toilette (for women)
Fresh-Floral

Top notes: Bergamot Oil, Lemon Primofiore Oil, Orange Bigarade Oil
Middle notes: Rose Accord, Jasmine Petal Accord, Juniper Berry Oil
Base notes: Fir Balsam, Amber Gris, Musks

Both fragrances are available now for CHF 246.00 (100ml) each.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Penhaligon’s

She’s back! Play it nice and charming in Ariana Grande’s shimmering neutral mauve lipglass, or get fresh and cheeky in matte orchid pink lipstick. Wear each shade alone, or layer together. Be a doll, and go GLAM! If you are interested, click here to see her first collaboration with the iconic beauty brand that was available last January.

Every cent of the selling price of M·A·C VIVA GLAM Lipstick and Lipglass is donated to the M·A·C AIDS Fund which to date has raised $425 million. Well done, bravo!

Lipstick
VIVA GLAM ARIANA GRANDE 2 in Deep Cool Pink (Matte)
CHF 28.00

Lipglass
VIVA GLAM ARIANA GRANDE 2 in Neutral Nude Pink
CHF 26.00

Available in Switzerland now at all MAC counters and online.
Shopping for a good cause, let’s do it!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of M·A·C Cosmetics

Alert to all trekkies! Spanning half a century, Star Trek and its loyal fans cross decades, influencing ideas and aesthetics of gender, race and intergalactic potential. As the sci-fi saga continues, delight in the beauty of exploration as M·A·C and Star Trek’s latest cinema generation joins forces in an exclusive makeup collaboration of astral hues.

The cosmic women of Star Trek not only made the series immortal, their powerful sense of style sent space-age fashion to a new frontier. Check out the new beauty must-haves:

LIPGLASS – CHF 29.00
Pleasure Planet – Set to Stun – Warp Speed Ahead – Khaaannnn!

LIPSTICK – CHF 31.00
The Enemy Within – Kling-It-On – LLAP – Where No Man Has Gone Before

TRIP THE LIGHT FANTASTIC POWDER – CHF 45.00
Luna Luster – Strange New Words – Highly Illogical

SUPERSLICK LIQUID EYE LINER – CHF 32.00
On the Hunt – Pure Show – Nocturnal

PRESSED PIGMENT EYE SHADOW – CHF 36.00
Bird of Prey – Midnight
Th Naked Time – To Boldly Go

M·A·C STUDIO NAIL LACQUER – CHF 20.00
Enterprise – Skin of Evil – Holla-Deck

LASH – CHF 19.00
Wink of an Eye

Available now exclusively at all M·A·C Counters, M·A·C Stores and www.maccosmetics.ch.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of MAC Cosmetics

Rumours were out for a long time, now it is official! In 2016, the Maison Louis Vuitton is preparing to explore new territory after 70 years: perfume.

The new 7-piece fragrance collection. Even the bottles designed by Marc Newson are on point.

While unprecedented and firmly anchored in the House’s history, this olfactory path is not unchartered territory. Quite the contrary: it is informed by the trunk-maker’s legendary fondness for the vanity cases, travel asks and fragrances stamped Louis Vuitton that were created throughout the 20th century.

Toilets accessories from a Cora case in leather, 1927

By way of an olfactory prelude, the Maison Louis Vuitton unveils its creative atelier in the heart of Grasse, in the Provence region of France; the unique background of House Perfumer Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, and the palette of exclusive raw materials he has assembled since his arrival. It is an invitation to travel, a prologue to an imminent departure…

ITINERARY OF A GRASSE NATIVE

Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, Louis Vuitton Master perfumer, 2016

Named Maître Parfumeur of Louis Vuitton in 2012, Jacques Cavallier Belletrud traveled the world for four years to perfect the first collection of Louis Vuitton perfumes.

Facade of the Bastide, Les Fontaines Parfumées, Grasse

As a schoolboy in Grasse, Jacques Cavallier Belletrud would walk by an imposing portal. He had no idea what sat behind the wrought iron gates that so intrigued him. Little could he have imagined that, in 2016, this very place would become his creative workshop.

At that time, fragrance still fanned through every street and alleyway in Grasse. One only had to breathe in to know what the perfume factories were distilling that day. Orange blossom, citronella, lavender, Jacques already knew those ingredients, by heart.

Burst of May roses from Grasse

At the age of eight, Jacques Cavallier Belletrud went to his father, a perfumer, and told him he wanted to follow in his footsteps. He learned perfume notes the way other children practiced piano scales. Every evening, his father gave him perfume blotters, dipped in essence and he would have to wait until daybreak to write a detailed description in the notebooks he kept with care. When he got good grades in school, his father allowed him to weigh out formulas. The day after receiving his high school diploma, he began working in a perfume factory in Grasse, where he learned to distill flowers. At 18, he created his first formula — but his father reminded him that becoming a perfumer takes much more than mixing a few scents together…

Years later, Jacques Cavallier Belletrud proved his parent right. With the development of the Vuitton-exclusive fragrance palette, he has gone one step beyond using the latest fragrance extraction technology, of course.

Emblematic Louis Vuitton natural leather

For example, while there are existing molecules simulating the smell of leather in perfumery today, Jacques Cavallier Belletrud insisted that the Vuitton perfume workshop makes their own. Using the light beige leather that covers the handles and straps of Maison’s trunks and handbags, the exquisite scent of the Vuitton leather is extracted following complex steps of steeping in alcohol and clarification until a clear and crystalline liquid is obtained. Free of any hints of sharpness or smokiness, the end result is soft, refined and utterly Vuitton.

Extraction process of the Louis Vuitton leather infusion.

And that’s not all. Jacques Cavallier Belletrud also uses the supercritical CO2 extraction method on precious fresh flowers like the Centifolia rose and jasmine. Exclusive to Maison Louis Vuitton, this method doesn’t use any heat so as to ensure that all of the delicate flowers’ scent facets are protected and retained.

Centifolia rose from Grasse, immersed in the fountain water, Les Fontaines Parfumées, Grasse.

THE FACE

Léa Seydoux

By way of this visual prelude, the Maison Louis Vuitton unveils a first hint of the upcoming campaign: “Beyond Perfume”. French actress Léa Seydoux is the face of the new Louis Vuitton fragrances.

A COLLECTION OF SEVEN OLFACTORY EMOTIONS From the airiness of Rose des Vents to the intoxicating Turbulences, the ecstasy of a first night with Dans la Peau to the mindful immersion in nature with Apogée; from the self-revealing Contre Moi to an exploration of a darker side with Matière Noire and the explosion of the senses with Mille Feux… Les parfums Louis Vuitton describe a journey of emotions.

Les Parfums Louis Vuitton will be available from September 1st, 2016.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Louis Vuitton

Dramatic brows without the drama! Brow Sculpt elegantly adheres to your brow hairs shaping and gently filling in with matte colour. Its angled tip lets you size and shape your brows anyway you choose: use the flat edge for a natural diffused look or the pointed tip for a precise HD effect. Set your look with the built-in grooming brush. Naturally sculpted brows are just a sweep away.

BROW SCULPT
Omega light ash blonde
Cork warm blonde
Fling taupe blonde
Taupe light taupe
Brun taupe brown
Lingering medium brown
Spiked deep brunette
Stud deepest black brunette
CHF 28.00

BIG BROW PENCIL
Fling blonde
Lingering mid-tone warm brown
Coquette mid-tone neutral brown
Cork redhead
Spiked rich brunette
CHF 28.00

BROW DUO
Blonde omega/soba
Redhead espresso/cork
Brunette brun/coquette
CHF 39.00

Available from September 2016 at all MAC counters, MAC stores and online.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of MAC Cosmetics

Before I left to Rio de Janeiro, Jo Malone celebrated the launch of the new Basil & Neroli collection at Zurich’s Juicery 21 at Sihlstrasse 93. Inspired by London’s playful exuberance, the fragrance combines floral neroli and a delicious wink of basil for a scent that is fresh, fun and full of adventure. Are you ready to have yourself a London lark?

Top note: Basil
Middle note: Neroli
Base note: White Musk

The Basil & Neroli Collection will be available from September 5, 2016.
Cologne 30ml (CHF 69.00) and 100ml (CHF 130.00)
Body & Hand Wash 250ml (CHF 47.00)
Body Cream 175ml (CHF 99.00) and Home Candle 200g (CHF 82.00)

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Jo Malone

Check out my favorite non-streak self-tanners to keep you glowing all summer long! If you’re still scared of trying those products, it’s time to get over it because let’s be very honest, getting an actual tan is a hell of a lot worse for you! An that said, self-tanners have truly evolved in 2016. Many formulas contain skin care benefits and come with new technologies to help you apply flawlessly. Don’t forget, it is still indispensable that you exfoliate well beforehand.

Have a look at these high-achieving sunless options that will make people think you’ve taken a sunny vacation. It is also a great way to cheat during your holidays as your friends might be impressed how fast and even you tan.

LANCASTER Self Tan Beauty In Shower Tanning Lotion
CHF 55.00 (200ml)

What an amazing technology! Discover a totally new self tan experience. A «1 minute express» application in your daily shower that gives you a beautiful sun-kissed glow from your first application. Day after day, you develop a real-as-natural golden tan. No streaks or orange look!

LA MER The Face and Body Gradual Tan
CHF 110.00 (200ml)

This is my favorite product by far and I use it all year around! This refreshing self-tanning lotion absorbs quickly for an even, perfectly natural-looking glow with no streaks. Infused with the nutrient-rich Miracle Broth™, heart of La Mer’s profound powers of transformation, it immerses skin in moisture, soothing sensitivities and restoring radiance. With sea-born antioxidant actives, it helps revitalize and recharge for a year-round radiance. What is truly great about it is that you can also use it for the face. It never leaves streaks or any orange color. It is so easy to apply! You will love it!

CLARINS Self Tanning Milky-Lotion Face and Body
CHF 38.50 (125 ml)

No summer can last all year around! This ultra-hydrating self-tanner promotes a beautiful tan, for both face and body, and at the same time a 24-hour hydration with the help of extracts of fig and aloe vera.
It is really the perfect product if you tend to have dry skin.

Metallic Fabric Sandals by GUCCI

These glamorous, retro-inspired beauties from Gucci were at the top of my wish list. Once I spotted them, I knew those are the perfect companions for the beach season. The crossover shape in its lustrous silver-tone sparkly fabric is sure to have heads turning, while the sizeable chunky heel will elevate any bikini look. And in combination with your newly tanned skin, it is perfection!

This post is also available in German and French on the Marionnaud blog.

Stay tuned! While you are reading this, I am on my way to Rio de Janeiro!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Today, I would love to get you holiday-ready with my favorite five sun products that I have tested intensively during the last two weeks during my stay in St. Tropez. Sun cream is the biggest summer essential in our beauty bags, and you can be expecting no less than the best protection for your skin with these must-haves.

FOR THE FACE

DIOR BRONZE Beautifying Protective Creme Sublime Glow SPF 50
CHF 49.50 (50ml)

Boasting a divine melt-in texture and an incredible scent, this facial sun cream has a finish that reveals its pearlescent highlights and that is extremely light for its high sun protection factor. It does not whiten the skin that is instantly wrapped in a satiny light. Designed for the fine and fragile skin of the face, it protects it from free radicals and prevents the appearance of photo-induced dark spots. For me a daily must!

SISLEY Tinted Sun Care Youth Protector SPF 30
CHF 150.00 (40ml)
Available in 01 Natural – 02 Golden (this is the shade I am wearing)- 03 Amber

If I am looking for more coverage at the beach or at dinner, I go for this amazing product with its ideal luminous make-up finish. Besides, it helps to protect the skin from the effects of photo-aging, such as wrinkles, brown spots, dehydration and loss of firmness. Its optimal sun protection filters and active ingredients protect the DNA and have anti-free radical properties. Moreover the moisture level of your skin is maintained.

FOR THE BODY

BIOTHERM Fluide Solaire Wet or Dry Skin SPF 30
CHF 41.00 (200ml)

I love this sun cream! And do you want to know why? Wet or dry, there is no need to choose anymore! Get the same sun protection even when skin is wet. New water-chasing technology prevents the formula from being diluted by water to protect wet skin so you can top up faster. With its so-called «Sun Sea Wind Repair Technology» it defends your skin from the combined effect of sea, wind and salt which make it more vulnerable to UV damage.

LA MER The After Sun Enhancer
CHF 150.00 (200ml)

Get your post-sun glow with this luxurious, lightweight gelée that instantly cools and quenches parched skin. Over time, it softens and recharges skin from the look of damage for an even, radiant and ageless tan. Massage onto body in circular motions for soothing post-sun pampering and to help enhance skin’s luminous glow.

LANCASTER – Le Parfum Solaire EdT
CHF 60.00 (100ml)

The House is known for breakthrough innovations in UV expertise. Never wear perfume and expose your skin to the sun as it can cause serious irritations. But here is an exception that is specially developed for the sun: Lancaster’s newest fragrance Le Parfum Solaire which gives you a flowery-musky relaxing cloud and will keep your memories of the holidays all year around.

Top notes: Aldehydes, petitgrain, lily of the valley, ylang-ylang
Middle notes: Cinnamon, rose petals, jasmine, hyacinth
Base notes: White musk, vanilla, violet, cabreuva wood

This post is also available in German and French on the Marionnaud blog.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands and © Sandra Bauknecht

Hair we go! The wild-haired dolls that remind us of our childhood bring their rainbow tufts, bejewelled bellies and lucky charms to M·A·C Good Luck Trolls — a crazy-hued collection as silly as the creatures themselves. Being a troll has never been so glamorous!

THE GOOD LUCK TROLLS COLLECTION includes the following products:

LIPSTICK | CHF 31.00 | LIMITED EDITION

Can’t Be Tamed Sheer lime yellow (Cremesheen)
Sushi Kiss Mid-tone coral cream (Satin)
Dance Off Pants Off Frosted hot pink (Frost)
Midnight Troll Rich blue (Matte)

CHROMACRAZE | CHF 28.00 | LIMITED EDITION

Tease and Thank You Bright cobalt blue
Good Luck Locks Bubblegum pink

BRUSH |CHF 67.00 | LIMITED EDITION
187SH Duo Fibre Face Brush

LIPGLASS |CHF 29.00 | LIMITED EDITION

Bubble Butt Magenta with fine pink and blue glitter
Twerkquoise Transparent sky blue with fine pink reflect
Saint Germain Light cool pink
Glitter Grunge Sheer berry with extra fine silver sparkle

EYESHADOW | CHF 28.00 | LIMITED EDITION

Paradisco Bright pinky-coral with pearl (Frost) (Permanent)
Black Tied Black with silver sparkle (Velvet) (Permanent)
Silly Vanilly White with very fine silver glitter (Satin)
Suns Out, Buns Out Mustard yellow with pearl (Veluxe Pearl)
Atlantic Blue Cobalt blue (Matte) (Permanent)

PIGMENT | CHF 35.00 | LIMITED EDITION

Chartreuse Frosted chartreuse green (Permanent)

GLITTER/REFLECTS GLITTER | CHF 35.00 | LIMITED EDITION

Fuchsia Fine fuchsia glitter (Permanent)
Reflects Transparent Teal Very fine reflective teal glitter (Permanent)
Reflects Purple Duo Very fine reflective violet glitter (Permanent)

BEAUTY POWDER | CHF 42.00 | LIMITED EDITION

Glow Rida Soft beige sheen with extra fine gold reflects
Play It Proper Pastel soft pink with sparkles

In stores now and available online.

My favorites are Lipglass in Saint Germain, Eyeshadow in Atlantic Blue (my favorite blue eyeshadow on earth), Beauty Powder in Play It Proper and of course the cute little Brush.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of MAC Cosmetics

Fashionable women in action sports, such as surfing or swimming, need functional and stylish clothing  in one. This post is dedicated to some fun pieces for the water as well as some beauty products that especially protect your hair. Be sure to pack those must-haves on your next vacation!

Citrus Sunshine Swimcap Cream, 75ml by Philip Kingsley
This product is absolutely amazing.  It was originally developed for the first US Olympic synchronized swimming team to protect their hair from dehydrating chlorine and salt water. This intensely hydrating formula is for use on wet hair and suitable for sensitive scalps, overly processed and damaged hair.

Vanishing Point Yosemite swim cap by Eres
Another way to protect your hair in the water, is a traditional swim cap. This Italian-made piece is crafted from the label’s signature shape-retaining peau douce fabric – it won’t move or slip when wet. Moreover it won’t pull your hair like many swim caps do.

Surf Infusion, 100ml by Bumble and Bumble
I adore creates soft beach waves. Enriched with sea salt and nourishing oils, this formula instantly adds texture, body and shine. UV inhibitors ensure tresses are protected from the drying effects of the sun.

Printed cotton-jersey T-shirt by Mikoh
The brand’s founding duo – Californian sisters and designers Oleema and Kalani Miller – are keen surfers who grew up on the sun-kissed beaches of Orange County. This classic crew-neck T-shirt is cut for a relaxed fit from soft cotton-jersey. Slip on this piece at the beach or team it with summery pants when you’re in the city.

Printed neoprene rashsuit by Perfect Moment
This rashsuit is cut from insulating 1.8mm neoprene that’s UV-protective and stretch-resistant so it holds its shape in water. This streamlined style has flatlocked seams to reduce irritation and feels super lightweight and flexible. The striped monochrome panels contour and flatter your figure.

St Tropez striped perforated neoprene backpack by Duskii
Store your beach essentials or a change of clothes in the roomy interior, adjusting the rope straps for comfort.

Saint Tropez striped neoprene swimsuit by Duskii
Matching your beach backpack, this swimsuit is crafted from sculpting neoprene, this comfortable style molds to the body for a flexible fit.

Surfboard by Chanel
And last but not least, you need a stylish surfboard and why not opt for one by Chanel. In 2010, the fashion house created luxury surfboards in the original Chanel classic aesthetic. I am sure you can still find them somewhere or ask for a special order in stores.

Who said surfing wasn’t chic?

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands