King Charles III Coronation Souvenirs

King Charles III’s coronation is taking place this week, much to the delight of fervent royalists and street-party fans alike. The coronation itself will be held on Saturday 6 May in Westminster Abbey, and it’s been confirmed the King and Queen Consort are set to be crowned during this regal ceremony.

For all royal fans, I put together some fun souvenirs to buy right now, from a commemorative handbag, tea cup, umbrella, to the Gadroon plate from Royal Crown Derby. All pieces will commemorate the coronation of King Charles III for many years to come.

LoL, Sandra

Large King’s Coronation Tote Bag by Harrods

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King Charles III Coronation Gadroon Plateicon by Royal Crown Derby

Vintage 2008-2009 Union Jack shoulder bag by CHANEL Pre-Owned

Union Jack Bear iconby Harrods

King Charles III Coronation Teacup and Saucer by Harrods

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Coronation Blend English Breakfast Tea (50 Tea Bags) by Harrods

Crowning Glory Folding Umbrella by Harrodsicon
Coronation Cuvée 2023 Impérial Champagne NV Magnum 1500mlicon by Moët & Chandon

Photos: © Courtesy of the Brands / © Sandra Bauknecht
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Pasta, Basta!

I love pasta, basta! Leave it to Dolce & Gabbana to satisfy my huge appetite for Italian food with the most delicious carbs on the planet. The Italian fashion house joined forces with Pasta Di Martino, so that we can all get our paws on some DG-approved pasta.

I can only recommend this elegant gift box  «THE AUTHENTIC». It is a gift great for every pasta lover. Being dedicated to Naples, it contains a selection of 5 varieties of PGI Gragnano Pasta, made from 100% Italian durum wheat, and 2 cans of small Lampadina Tomatoes from the Sorrento Coast. On top you get a beautiful Dolce & Gabbana apron to be an Italian chef in style. The set is available for CHF 125.00.

TO SHOP THE GIFT BOX, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Dolce & Gabbana / Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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Valentine’s Day with Hermès

For Valentine’s Day, the House of Hermès not only puts the human hand at the heart of its creations, but also puts your heart in the hands of its craftsmen. The selection of love-ready objects made with passion is designed to surprise you and ignite passion.

From a fascinating and large selection of gift ideas, you can surprise your partner and write the rules of love new. A little, a lot, or very passionately; look him or her in the eye at a beach racquet game, go to the midnight ball to find out who owns the forgotten pump, tuck love notes in your fanny pack or have a picnic hand-in-hand with your wicker Birkin.

Make your and a loved one’s heart beat faster and fall in love with Hermès objects for a wonderful Valentine’s Day, full of love and surprises.

LoL, Sandra

Belt in lizard, Swift calfskin and Epsom calfskin

Magellan portable backgammon set in mahogany and printed Swift calfskin

«Après la Vague» beach racquets in printed beech and cork

Ballerina in suede goatskin

«Grand Jeté» two-band ring in rose gold, diamonds and pink tourmaline

Headband in silk twill 

Balusoie bag in «Panoplie Equestre» printed silk and Hunter cowhide 

Birkin Picnic bag in Swift calfskin and wicker

Toupet bag in alligator and feathers


Scarf 70 «Jungle Love au Tampon» in vintage silk twill

Bracelet in enamel and gold metal

Scarf 70 «Rendez-vous Galant» in vintage silk twill

Rouge Hermès limited editions

Double-face scarf «Epaulettes de Gala» 90 in silk twill

Photos: © S/S 2023 Objets Hermes © Studio des Fleurs / © Maud Remy-Lonvis
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Louis Vuitton Baby Collection

For the first time, Louis Vuitton will debut a collection dedicated to newborns. Soft and enveloping, elegant yet playful, this timeless offering will accompany babies through their earliest days.

Comprised of clothing, shoes, accessories and objects, the collection brings together several Louis Vuitton métiers with exceptional quality, sweetness and joy. Maison signatures are transcribed whimsically, at once familiar and fresh. The primary motif, Meli-Melo, rearranges the Monogram with a touch of insouciance. Louis Vuitton’s iconic flowers appear as perforations on leather shoes, as a 3D knit in the finest cashmere, and as a discreet label affixed to many of the pieces. With the addition of luxurious coverings, emblematic items in silver, small travel cases and even a Louis teddy bear, Louis Vuitton has imagined a beautiful world where every piece will play a part in the baby’s life. Embodying over 160 years of tradition, a specially designed wardrobe trunk signifies the ultimate lifetime gift.

The idea for a baby collection was birthed from various elements of Louis Vuitton’s history, contemporary spirit, and visual identity. Gaston Louis Vuitton introduced toys to the Maison’s universe with a Salon de Jouets inside Champs-Elysées store in the 1930s. More recently, the wonderment and limitless discovery that begins in childhood guided the Louis Vuitton Core Values campaign. This baby offering strengthens the Maison’s emotional connection, as symbolic moments become precious memories.

The collection represents a thoughtful range of everyday pieces and special occasion styles, of first toys that can become life-long keepsakes. Anchored by milky white, sandy dune and tonal greys, motifs in pastel hues are enlivened with a bold splash of yellow.

Clothing, sized up to 12 months, includes onesies, coordinating ensembles, essential bodies, pyjamas, a dress, and a double-faced hooded coat that boasts Monogram flowers on the pockets and the Meli-Melo motif inside. In these complete outfits, babies will be effortlessly enveloped and adorably chic. Details are delicately and meticulously considered, whether mother-of-pearl buttons on cotton cashmere cardigans, small embroideries on bloomers and bodies, or the subtle appearance of the Monogram as a jacquard and printed on grosgrain.

Two shoe styles embellished with Monogram perforations bring extra cuteness to each look: Mary Janes or Babies in white and pink, and booties in white or dune with yellow laces. Knitted slippers and flower beanies will keep little feet and ears extra cosy. Bibs, socks and other small accessories – all given discreet Louis Vuitton signatures – are proposed as perfect gift sets.

Babies can indulge in the warmth of textile accessories such as a plush sleeper in natural silk with embroidered flowers, a knitted Monogram blanket, and a thicker, double-sided Meli-Melo blanket that can be laid out as a colourful mat. Two cases – a small suitcase and a toiletry pouch – rework the traditional toile as tonal jacquard with leather accents and yellow piping. Engraved with different Maison motifs, a silver tumbler, a souvenirs case, and a rounded rattle combine refinement and functionality. The Louis teddy bear covered in jacquard with Monogram flower eyes and an affectionate smile will become a beloved friend.

Comforting in feel and meant to last, materials have been discerningly selected in line with Louis Vuitton’s commitment to responsible sourcing. Environmental standards include organic cotton and LWG-certified leather. Cashmere and sheep’s wool originate from partners that guarantee animal welfare.

With enduring creation at the heart of the Louis Vuitton, pieces can be passed down and treasured, thus perpetuating the generous and joyous intention of the collection.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton
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CHANEL Haute Joaillerie Book

A spectacular book published by Thames & Hudson to celebrate the exceptional CHANEL High Jewelry creations, from the launch of Gabrielle Chanel’s first collection in 1932 to the most contemporary pieces.

«I used my penchant for all that shines to try and reconcile elegance and fashion in a set of jewelry.»
Gabrielle Chanel

From Gabrielle Chanel «Bijoux de Diamants» collection to the newest interpretations of her signature signs and symbols by Patrice Leguéreau, Director of the CHANEL Fine Jewelry Creation Studio, CHANEL High Jewelry remains eternally modern and true to the spirit of her enterprise.
Breathtaking new photography and classic images from the CHANEL archives brings together revealing combinations in a stunning visual narrative, privileging aesthetic form over 4 chapters: the origins, the symbols, the spirit, and the allure. Gabrielle Chanel’s passion for fabulous and improbable marvels is celebrated here in a covetable book-object that pays tribute to the House’s unparalleled insistence on luxury and refinement, creativity, and beauty.

Based on extensive research and exploring Chanel’s inspirations and art through some of the most precious of all her creations and the eternally modern ideas they have inspired, the book features superb photographs by Karl Lagerfeld, Mario Testino, Patrick Demarchelier, François Kollar, Roger Schall, George Hoyningen-Huene, Horst P. Horst, André Kertész, Sarah Moon, Koto Bolofo, Karim Sadli, Dominique Issermann, and many others. It is also illustrated with images from CHANEL’s archive and sketches that express the creativity and joie de vivre of the world’s finest High Jewelry collections.

Retail price: £150 / 150€ / $200
Publication dates: France / United Kingdom: December 2022
China / Japan / Korea: January 2023
United States: March 2023

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © CHANEL #CHANELHighJewelry
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Opening Up Prada

The anticipation of an unopened box, the revelation in its unpacking, the joy of giving, the thrill of receiving: PRADA celebrates the traditions and memories inherent in the season. Connecting innately to that spirit, PRADA surprised me with a gift box in store. Revealing its tantalizing treasures layer by layer, I felt pure and innocent joy by this simple gesture of giving.

The beautiful Cleo crystal-embellished shoulder bag drawn from the Holiday collection, as well as the set-of geometric-pattern baubles both express the breadth of the Prada aesthetic universe, encompassing fashion and accessories alongside nods to homewares and games.

What I love about those glittery accessories and fabrics is that you can wear them all year long. They are definitely not limited to the Holiday season. Opening up Prada. Add some sparkle to your life. All year long… a holiday treat you will never regret.

TO SHOP PRADA ONLINE, CLICK HERE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Prada
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Last Minute Shopping at Sephora

Sephora is one of the best places to find amazing gifts to spoil all of your beauty-loving friends. When I went to the Sephora press day, I narrowed down the best skin-care, makeup, hair, and fragrance sets, so you can cross all of your beauty-obsessed friends and relatives off your list in the last minute.

In fact, there’s so much holiday goodness that it can be a little overwhelming to start from scratch. So I did the hard work for you and compiled the most affordable and breathtaking options.

Happy Holidays!

LoL, Sandra

Sephora Collection Palette Blockbuster – CHF 39.90
88 shades: 60 eyeshadows, 6 face powders (2 highlighters, 2 blushs and 2 bronzer), 16 lip glosses, 3 eyebrow powders and 3 cream eyeliners.

Nars Explicit Content Climax – Duo De Mascaras – CHF 45.90
A makeup set featuring two full-sized Climax Mascaras in attractive packaging.

Drunk Elephant Drunk Break Weekend Edition Holiday Kit – CHF 88.90
This is a complete facial routine featuring a pro-quality AHA/BHA mask.

Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Jet Set – CHF 50.90
Featuring the award-winning, cult favorite Brazilian Bum Bum Cream that is a must for all beauty lovers.

Fresh Cleanse & Moisturize Set – CHF 28.90
Your skin care prep essentials in one set.

Too Faced Better Than Sex – Ornament – CHF 19.90
Trim your tree with a limited-edition holiday ornament with a travel size version of the #1-selling prestige mascara in America! Makes the perfect gift!

Pumpkin Spice Second Slice Eye Palette – CHF 57.90
Capture all the sexy colors of fall with our phis palette, made of 18 fragrant, warm and spicy shades.

Kenzoki Youth Flow Set – CHF 49.90
The perfect mix of global anti-ageing action and feel-good formula.​

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post is sponsored. We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise!

Diptyque Christmas Gifts

Are you still looking for a great gift idea? I recently came across those limited edition pieces by DIPTYQUE that I absolutely adore. They are not only beautiful on display, but also help to spread the beautiful scent of the candle in your room. Rotating gently, the golden lantern, a refined accessory on top of a candle, or the carousel’s golden charms, both revolve around the flame, like a fairytale to enchant the winter.

Snow Candle 190g
In midnight blue, this limited-edition scented candle is adorned with white, gold and silver stars plucked out of Diptyque’s map of stars to enhance the intense color of the wax.icon

Perfumed Bird Brooch Eau Rose
Inspired by Renaissance perfume jewelery, a scented ceramic slips behind the brooch and diffuses the intensely floral notes and fruity accents of Eau Rose.

Carousel Set with Candle Berries 190gr
Like stars around the sun, the carousel’s golden charms enchant the emblematic Berries (Baies) candle.icon

Lantern for Candle
A myriad of ovals adorns the Diptyque lantern. Its delicate openwork, projects graphicand infinitely poetic reflections all around.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Diptyque and © Sandra Bauknecht
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Acqua di Parma Holiday 2022 Collection

Each year, I enjoy ACQUA DI PARMA’s Holiday collection to the fullest. It is a true festival of wonders, with so many gift options or delightful treats for the house.

This season, the Italian House has come up with something very delicious: the seasonal exclusive Panettone candle. It is a delightful treat for the sight, smell and taste evoking the most delicious memories of the holidays. Brining the iconic scent of yummy Panettone, the traditional Milanese festive dessert well-loved all over the world, its sparkling citrus meets in an irresistible blend with the gourmand notes of vanilla and candied fruits.

The limited-edition candle (CHF 107.00) features a weave of sunlit yellow elements on the glass jar and the outerbox, a one-of-a-kind print inspired by a Florentine artisanal technique by Italian craftsmen, especially for ACQUA DI PARMA’s Holiday Collection. Perfect as festive notes across your living spaces. It is also available as a diffuser (CHF 121.00).

The other seasonal exclusive scent is called Magia del Camino. The packaging is dressed in intense hues and magical tones to scent the home with the comforting warmth of gathering together around the fireplace. Available as candle and diffuser.

Rejoice in a snowy atmosphere where the crisp winter air of Bosco brings a sense of bliss.

Other beautiful gift sets and products dedicated to the festive season are:

The splendid welcome into the Italian festive wonderland with an Advent Calendaricon (CHF 595.00) full of surprises.

Convivial and vibrant with radiant Colonia Collection gifts sets (CHF 171.00) that gives light to a festive Holiday.

A window with a view that opens into a journey of discovery with Oud Favorites Set (CHF 317.00).

The Barbiere Daily Ritual Set (CHF 123.00) is the perfect gift for your loved one.

A treasure trove of Mediterranean gems in Blu Mediterraneo gift sets (CHF 113.00) to take you back to your favourite memories.

Every print in this beautiful Holiday Collection is a unique one-off combination produced by hand through the marbled technique. A wonderful detail that defines the Italian wonderland dressing those creations in colours bursting with festive joy.

In Switzerland the collection is available at Jelmoli and Globus.
TO SHOP THE ACQUA DI PARMA HOLIDAY 2022 COLLECTION ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © ACQUA DI PARMA
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Travel Book Clutches

If you are not into real books and were not impressed by yesterday’s reading list, I have another book you might enjoy from my holidays, the Maldives embroidered appliquéd canvas clutch.

Handcrafted in an intricate process that can take up to 300 hours, Olympia Le-Tan‘s signature book-shaped clutches are a must-have among fashionistas. This one inspired by the Maldives is patterned with lush palm trees, turquoise waters and floating beach huts that dot the island coastline. It’s structured with a sturdy gold-tone frame and unlocks to reveal Liberty florals. Gift it to a loved one to commemorate a honeymoon or special birthday trip. It could also be the perfect packaging to surprise someone with a travel experience. Needless to say there are many destinations featured as a book clutch.

YOU CAN FIND A LARGE SELECTION OF TRAVEL BOOK CLUTCHES HERE.icon

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and © Olympia Le-Tan
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