Sandra‘s Closet

Thanks to my friend Catherine who surprised me with those to-die-for sugar shapes, I have discovered Belle de Sucre, a brand that is almost too good to eat. Every little piece is handmade in the headquarter in Cornou, just South of Paris. Claire Vincent, the founder, came up with the idea to use different colours, shapes and flavours, all made from organic ingredients including fruit pulp and cocoa beans, making them a guilt-free pleasure as well as a work of art.

Adorably packaged and poetically designed, the collection, including must-haves like little handbags, flowers, hearts and lips, is already flying off the shelves! The perfect little surprise for a beloved friend or to decorate your Christmas table.

In Switzerland, Belle de Sucre products are exclusively available at Globus.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Belle de Sucre and © Sandra Bauknecht

“The best gift of all comes from the heart. It’s a song that you share or a smile that you start, it’s the love that you give… .” This is my daughter’s favourite Christmas song and I love the message. When it comes from the heart, every action becomes more beautiful.

You don’t need to spend a lot of money, it is more the time you invest to make somebody else happy. My friend Tine recently surprised me with this handmade cookie jar filled with glittering biscuits. Isn’t it the perfect gift for someone you love? All you need is some hot glue, cute ribbons, one or two flat Christmas ornaments and of course a canning jar. The decoration only depends on your individual tastes, have fun!

Speaking of love, today is my Dad’s 70th birthday! Happy Happy Birthday to the best father I could have wished for. I am blessed to you have you in my life.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

“Water is life is love is life is water is life is love is life is water”
This lovely surprise was waiting for me on my doorstep…

Evian® Natural Mineral Water has teamed with American designer Diane von Furstenberg for the design of its 2013 limited-edition bottle, marking the first time the brand has linked with a female designer. The projects reflects a playful celebration of life and features a nod to the designer’s iconic mantras with, “Water is Life is Love is Life is Water is…,” gracing the bottle in her distinct handwriting and an ubiquitous heart DVF logo in a special hue of red.

Since 2008, evian® has collaborated with the world’s most acclaimed designers including Issey Miyake, Paul Smith, Jean Paul Gaultier, Christian Lacroix and Courrèges. To date, 10 million Limited Edition bottles have been sold and distributed to over 150 countries worldwide.

Just in time for the festive season, the limited edition bottle will be sold in Switzerland from November at the retailers Globus, Manor, among others for CHF 2.40.

“I am so excited about this collaboration because I have always loved evian® and I think drinking water is one of the most important things we can do to love ourselves and love is life! To me it is all about living life to the fullest and I am so proud to work with evian® to spread such an important message.“ said Diane von Furstenberg.

About Diane von Furstenberg

Diane von Furstenberg first entered the fashion world in 1972 with a suitcase full of jersey dresses. Two years later, she invented the wrap dress, which came to symbolize power and independence for an entire generation of women. After a brief hiatus, Diane reemerged on the New York fashion scene in 1997 and re-launched the iconic dress, reestablishing her company as a global luxury lifestyle brand. DVF is now sold in over 70 countries worldwide, and has 54 freestanding shops. In 2005, Diane received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), and one year later was elected to her current position as its President. Diane’s commitment to empowering women is expressed through fashion, philanthropy and mentorship. She sits on the board of the non-profit Vital Voices, and in 2010 established The DVF Awards to support and honor exceptional women and organizations.

If you are interested to hear Diane von Furstenberg speak about this collaboration in her own words, I invite you to step in her office by watching this video:

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of evian®, Diane von Furstenberg and © Sandra Bauknecht

I have to admit that I am completely addicted to coffee. I can stop eating sweets, drinking alcohol, but please never take away my coffee. Just the thought of my beautiful nice-smelling cup in the morning, gets me going and out of bed. Coffee actually has a lot of advantages and is not at all bad for you if you drink it in moderation. This is something I need to work on.

Many papers state that coffee is actually one of the healthiest beverages billions of people consume regularly. It can increase your metabolic rate and helps you burn fat if you don’t overdo your intake. Of course, only when consumed black or with a little milk or soy milk – which I like – coffee is great for your figure, as it is having zero calories, zero carbs, and zero fats. So leave away the sugar.

The caffeine in coffee keeps our brains alert and receptive of new information. So I hope that you have had your cup of coffee already because here is some information that you might be truly interested in:

NESPRESSO has launched a new coffee machine “that lives like you”: U – the ultimate experience in simplicity, modularity and purity for coffee lovers around the world that offers an amazing concept!

The Nespresso story began 25 years ago with a simple but revolutionary idea: enable anyone to create the perfect cup of espresso at home. Today, Nespresso has made that idea even simpler by developing U, the next generation machine that shapes itself to suit you and your lifestyle. With clever, modular design, U can change its form to fit contemporary living spaces and interiors. On top of that, the cool machine has a tactile interface which memorises your favourite cup length, and thanks to the pre-programmed Ristretto, Espresso and Lungo sizes, there is no need to select it each time.

The first-of-its kind, it has a rounded, adjustable water tank which is able to seamlessly slide around, letting it change shape to suit your home or office space.

In addition to a quick heat up time of 25 seconds, U features automatic brewing, so your coffee begins the second you drop your Nespresso capsule and effortlessly close its neat slider. Its immediate cut-off also makes it one of the cleanest machines – stopping any drips and automatically ejecting each capsule.

Available in four understated colours – Pure Cream, Pure Black, Pure Grey and Pure Orange – and with some dedicated accessories such as an innovative tray with two adaptable magnetic dispensers, that can be attached to the sides of the U machine or also be stacked on top of each other for a slimmer storage solution. U is priced at CHF 179.-.

And here are some great news for my Swiss based followers: THIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO WIN YOUR OWN U!

Nespresso kindly offers two of their new innovative coffee machines to Sandra’s Closet readers. All you have to do is to send me an e-mail with the header “Nespresso” to and tell me which of the four colours you would love to have.

Contestants MUST live in Switzerland. All entries must be received until November 9, 2012. No purchase or payment of any kind is necessary to enter or win this contest. By entering this contest, entrants accept and agree to be bound by these official rules.

Personally speaking, I truly love Nespresso because of its flexibility. Every family member can choose his or her own style. For example, I absolutely adore flavoured coffee. Therefore I am completely “going nuts” for Nespresso’s upcoming three end-of-year Limited Edition Grands Crus Variations 2012 for the festive season:

This year, it is inspired by three different notes of nut: Coconut, Hazelnut and Macadamia Nut. Originating from the Livanto family, each Grand Cru encapsulates its own distinct taste universe, opening up new coffee discoveries.

Nespresso Hazelnut – The combination of lightly roasted hazelnut notes with the Livanto Grand Cru reveals praline flavours, giving it a fine balance in the mouth.
Macadamia Nut – The rich savours of the macadamia nut combined with the roundness of the Livanto Grand Cru develop a surprising freshness and reveal citrus notes.
Coconut – A perfect harmony between the coconut notes and the Livanto Grand Cru creates a gourmand experience reminiscent of coconut macaroons.

Each of the Variations 2012 are 100% of natural origin and contain only roast and ground coffees mixed with natural flavourings and is free from food allergens. Available worldwide from November 12, 2012. A sleeve will sell for CHF 5.70 in Nespresso boutiques and online.

This post was so mouth-watering for me that I drank 4 cups of coffee while typing it. Speaking of moderation… but it just tastes so good. Don’t forget to enter the contest and good luck!

LoL, Sandra.

Photos: Courtesy of Nespresso and © Sandra Bauknecht

For the fashion-conscious vodka-lovers out there, here is your new fashionable drink: ROBERTO CAVALLI VODKA.

Roberto Cavalli says about the tasty addition to his universe on his blog: “In life it takes imagination! I believe I have it!
 I do not remember if I told you what it was that prompted me to create the ROBERTO CAVALLI VODKA. I go clubbing… I notice that vodka is the most popular drink… smooth… or with some juice… the most fashionable vodka is French… French…? Why not Italian…? I design the Cavalli style bottle and my son Tommaso selects the best distillery… that’s how the first Italian Vodka is born!”

A few days ago, I created a special cocktail… I can say I am not fond of high volume alcohol drinks… but I really like my cocktail… maybe too much! I get into a nasty habit of making one before bed… l put the glass near the bed and I enjoy it ‘til the last delicious drop! It helps me fall asleep… gently! Try it and let me know how you like it…”

Here is the recipe:

If you are in Florence, I recommend a visit to Caffè Giacosa, one of the city’s most famous cafés. After a painstaking restoration faithful to the original structures, Roberto Cavalli, a born Florentine bound to tradition, reopened this lovely spot. There you can enjoy and shop chocolate, pastries, wines and spirits, all embellished with the iconic Cavalli logo and animal prints.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Roberto Cavalli and © Sandra Bauknecht

Great news! Lanvin is collaborating with Ladureé and Alber Elbaz has art directed a special bubble gum-flavoured macaroon set. The designer stirs our imagination, arouses our fantasies and now, plays to our weakness for sweets.

It is this whimsical spirit that inspired the lovely faces of playful women on Ladurée boxes containing eight pink bubble gum-flavoured macaroons.
The delicacies will go on sale on Sept. 25 in France, in time for Paris Fashion Week’s. The U.K., U.S. and Japan will follow on Sept. 28.

Lanvin are not the first fashion house to team up with the famous French salon de thé – other designers to have collaborated include Matthew Williamson, Christian Louboutin, Sonia Rykiel and many others.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Lanvin

Louis Vuitton Waffle Maker (2012)

Last week, I came across this amazing piece of art by Andrew Lewicki and I was asking myself why can’t this LOUIS VUITTON WAFFLE MAKER just be a real product. Imagine your fashionable waffle imprinted with the famous Louis Vuitton Monogram pattern each morning. I am convinced that this product would be a bestseller if the French luxury house and Cuisinart collaborated to produce this creation. Fashionistas all over the globe would drool over this waffle maker to make stylish and delicious treats.

I was curious about the other work of the L.A.-based artist who was born in 1983 and found some pretty fun pieces on his homepage. Enjoy!

LoL, Sandra

Petit Déjeuner (2008)

Oreo Manhole Cover (2010)

Counterpane (2012)

Hermès silk scarves, Tiffany & Co. silk/wool/cashmere blend shawl, Gucci cotton shawl, Louis Vuitton silk scarf, Louis Vuitton silk/wool blend shawl, Burberry cashmere blankets, wool batting
70″ x 88″ x .5″

Photos: © Andrew Lewicki

During my stay at the fabulous Lausanne Palace & Spa, I was invited to an olfactory and flavorful feast for the senses at the famous Table d’Edgard, the Michelin-starred and the newly appointed 17/20 points Gaultmillau restaurant.

Two magicians: Chef Edgar Bovier and “Nose” Roja Dove

Famous perfumer Roja Dove and chef Edgar Bovier had created a dinner in which ingredients Roja uses in his perfumes were integrated in the different courses. As you smell and taste with the same primitive part of your brain, this experienece was outstanding, causing orgasmic explosions on your tongue. I was very lucky to sit next to Roja who explained me carefully which food I had to taste first while smelling the ingredient of the perfume.

Taste: Asparagus soup with light foam / Spices and pink pepper

Smell: VETIVER – Pink pepper
Season yourself with the scent of pepper! It is all about that spicy twist.

Taste: Shrimp on a bed of rosemary-confit citruses / Bergamot jelly 
Balsamic reduction / Roasted pistachio

Smell: SCANDAL pour HOMME – Bergamot
It takes 150.000 kg of the fruit to produce 1 kg oil. The best bergamot oil is one of the most luxurious products in the world.

Taste: Green pea-stuffed fresh morels / Orange jus

Smell: INNUENDO – Orris
You smell a paradox, the freshness on top and underneath the powdery. Orris is a term used for the roots Iris germanica, Iris florentina, and Iris pallida. It takes six years to make that material and it costs three times the amount of gold.

Taste: Spice-roasted sea bass / Light zucchini mash  
Saffron and basil shellfish jus

Smell: DIAGHILEV – Lemon, orange and saffron.
The spice just adds warmth.

Taste: Tonka bean and ivory chocolate mousse / Macaroon finger and Madagascar vanilla ice cream

Smell: DANGER – Tonka bean and vanilla
Oriental perfumes are about tease and promise.

I hope that you have enjoyed this tasteful post. It was one of the most outstanding gourmet menus I have ever tasted.
If you are interested in the perfumes, I kindly invite you to contact the Lausanne Palace Boutique via e-mail: laboutiquedupalace@lausanne-palace.ch.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, Stills: Courtesy of Roja Dove

“The last bastion of hospitality left in the world” – Roja Dove
This is what the famous perfumer said about the beautiful Lausanne Palace & Spa hotel and I could do nothing else but agree with him.

Located in the heart of the Olympic capital, with a magnificent view over the Lake Geneva and the Alps, this charming five-star luxury hotel is only a throw stone from the most elegant shopping streets and the picturesque old city. The entire property has been renovated over the past years, thus creating a unique environment, combining luxury and refinement, well-being and savoir-vivre. Its blend of the traditional with modernity is lending the hotel its unique character. The Lausanne Palace & Spa, an unforgettable experience.

Me in front of the Lausanne Palace & Spa, wearing a flared barnacle-intarsia dress by Alexander McQueen, a light blue leather jacket by Gucci and a black bag with golden zippers by Tom Ford and studded leather ankle boots by Valentino.

View from…

…my beautiful renovated room.

My favourite flowers, peonies, were waiting for me.

The Lausanne Palace Signature Scent
“The scent is soft and elegant recreating the impression the hotel itslef conveys. As you enter you are greeted at once by a marriage of elegant understatement, tradition, and refinement.
To recreate the atmosphere I have created a bespoke scent which blends soft balsamic, amber-like elements with a very precious and rare rose, rose de Mai, which pays homage to the hotel’s famous guests and my origin” – Roja Dove

Top notes: Bergamot
Middle notes: Rose
Base notes: Cedar, patchouli and leather

Some parts of the hotel are still reminiscent of its Belle Epoque soul.

Coco Chanel Suite – A fashionista’s dream
A privileged client of the Lausanne Palace & Spa for many years herself, the famous fashion designer Coco Chanel greatly inspired this suite in blue sky and cream tones. Located on the 5th floor of the Palace, the 170m² of space includes everything you can dream of.
The best feature: A vast dressing room of 24m² embellished with an English shower judiciously completes this apartment. Princess Grace of Monaco, wrapped in her mink stole, and Prince Albert visited as well.

Dining at Lausanne Palace & Spa is a true experience, thanks to four restaurants and a variety of culinary options. Le Côté Jardin offers healthy, creative Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The Michelin-starred and the newly appointed 17/20 points Gaultmillau, La Table d’Edgard serves French-inspired gastronomic cuisine. Italian restaurant La Grappa is just a few minutes by feet away from the hotel.

In the center of the lobby, the new 1915 Bar (the year of the hotel’s inauguration) welcomes the guests throughout the day.

The LP’s Bar (above) and the Habana Bar (below) serve refreshing cocktails and cigars.

At the Parisian-style la Brasserie du Grand-Chêne, guests like the Rolling Stones, enjoy typical brasserie dishes, such as entrecôte with French fries. Opened from 6:30 am to 1:00 am, hot dishes served until midnight.

The Palace Sushi Zen, where 3 specialists from the Land of the Rising Sun will prepare dishes in front of guests.

The Cellier invites you to taste carefully selected wines in an unforgettable setting.

The 2100 square metres CBE Concept Spa of the Lausanne Palace offers a wide range of treatments, therapies and contemporary or traditional rituals: sports rooms, indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, solarium and relaxation rooms.
I had an Ayurvedic massage which was absolutely wonderful.

The Yogi Booster, a relaxing bar and lounge, to enjoy healthy drinks and treats in the spa.

My stay at the Lausanne Palace & Spa was truly unforgettable and I can absolutely recommend this hotel and its boutique to you.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Lausanne Palace & Spa and © Sandra Bauknecht

The Berkeley London designer afternoon tea, Prêt-à-Portea, is inspired by the themes and colours of the fashion world. The menu is transformed every six months to follow the changing seasons in fashion. All served on fine-bone china by Paul Smith for Thomas Goode.

The new S/S 2012 collection sees designers such as Dolce & Gabbana, Jason Wu and Valentino grace the Berkeley’s tea stand as Prêt-à-Portea adds a creative twist to the classic elements of the traditional English afternoon tea with cakes and pastries resembling the latest catwalk designs for the style conscious.

Prêt-à-Portea is served in the Caramel Room daily from 1pm to 6pm.

Christian Louboutin must have neon yellow high heeled chocolate biscuit with signature red sole
Jason Wu romantic cherry bavarois and coconut cream topped with playful pink skirt and biscuit heel
Mulberry white chocolate crème de menthe and raspberry mousse topped with a lemon meringue
Miu Miu 1950’s inspired vanilla bikini biscuit with red hot icing and playful white bow

Valentino romantic peach cake dress with light pink champagne jelly and edible flower
Fendi nautical red and white striped vanilla cake filled with fraise des bois cremeux accessorized with oversized yellow button
Michael Kors safari opera cake with dark chocolate and mocha filling topped with signature leopard print
Dolce & Gabbana light blue Sicilian blueberry sponge cake wicker basket wrapped in chocolate
Gucci art deco Grand Marnier and dark Valrhona chocolate mousse embellished with golden beads

And for those who are still hungry, a mouth-watering selection of miniature savoury skewers, taster spoons, elegant canapés and tea sandwiches is served.

I truly enjoyed this fashionable tea time. 
For Prêt-à-Portea reservations, please call +44 (0)20 7107 8866.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Berkeley Hotel and © Sandra Bauknecht