Sandra‘s Closet

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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Louis Vuitton reveals a collaboration with master LEGO® builders, LEGO® Certified Professionals, for its holiday windows and store displays around the world. From now until January 1st, 2023, iconic LEGO® bricks will be used to construct festive scenes that celebrate imagination and the art of creation.

Conceived by the Louis Vuitton Visual Image Studio and realised by LEGO® Certified Professionals, these colourful and dimensional scenes further a creative exchange that began with the Louis 200 Trunks, for which the LEGO Group was among the Visionaries and contributed a giant birthday cake made from 31,700 bricks.

LEGO® Certified Professionals are an inspiring group of LEGO builders who have turned their passion for the LEGO® System-in-Play into their profession.
They are often referred to as master builders as they are the creative brains behind many large-scale LEGO builds that inspire joy in people around the world. For this occasion, which also coincides with the LEGO Group’s 90th Anniversary, the collaboration will have worldwide reach, enchanting people from outside and inside the stores. Snow-capped Christmas trees instantly evoke winter, while brick-covered backgrounds appear in vibrant arrangements of the Damier pattern.

Many of the trunk variations, including those developed for the High Jewellery niches, are panelled in LEGO tiles with realistic hardware and handles. They come both closed and open overflowing with brinks. Other scenes conjure the dream of Paris during the holidays, with highly detailed replicas of the Arc de Triomphe and Pont Neuf. Drawing inspiration from an archive photo, larger-than-life trunks are stacked to resemble the Eiffel Tower – a fantasy composition that shows the limitless possibilities of LEGO play. On a giant scale, the façades of certain Maisons will be further enhanced with exterior festive designs spanning 2 to 15 metres and accented with bricks. On a much smaller scale, special packaging during this period will feature LEGO motifs.

More than an imaginative interpretation of the Louis Vuitton universe, the collaboration with LEGO Certified Professionals underscores the enduring message of handmade creation. From a single brick to millions, the tradition of both brands finds joyful expression resulting from interaction. Once disassembled, the bricks will be repurposed through local partnerships so that kids in local schools can be inspired to build and learn through play.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise!

Last month, I posted already a spoiler about this amazing collaboration between Barbie® and Balmain. For the previous post, click here please.

However this is not the first time, Barbie has collaborated with a fashion house, as she launched a collection with Jeremy Scott for Moschino in 2015. Olivier Rousteing and Barbie are also obvious admirers of one another, as the designer sat Barbie and Ken front row at Balmain’s digital fashion show last year.

Olivier Rousteing wrote on his Instagram account, showing him as a child next to a Barbie doll: «So this collaboration is more than just a collaboration. There is a message stronger than just a color card. When I was a little boy, I remembered hearing comments saying: a girl plays with Barbie, a boy with a car. This is such a cliché. As much as blue is for boys, pink is for girls. That’s why I love so much this collaboration, because Balmain and Barbie are stopping clichés and bringing a new ear where FREEDOM is the right word. I feel so proud of this collaboration because we are building a world where you are not defined by neither a gender, neither colors, neither codes that are not relevant today anymore. I am proud of this picture because it shows that the beauty of letting dreams about freedom since a young age happen will make you a free adult with passion.»

«Barbie® and Balmain are embarking upon a distinctly multicultural, inclusive and always joy-filled adventure,» said Olivier Rousteing, Balmain’s creative director.

With a lot of pink which is synonymous with the brand and perfectly aligns with the modern Balmain Army’s bold spirit, and the familiar Balmain’s signatures like the House’s iconic marinière and its mesmerizing labyrinth pattern, this limited-edition Balmain x Barbie capsule collection is the perfect match of fashion and toy industry heritages. Launching on January 13, the collection also includes unisex styles as Ken can be seen wearing a rosy robe in a photo.

TO SHOP BARBIE® AND BALMAIN, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

Bridging the physical and digital worlds, there is also a NFT auction, hosted by @mintnftofficial, that features three Barbie avatars created by @forgetmenot_bln wearing an exclusive look from the high-fashion Balmain x Barbie collection. The highest bidder of each auction will win both the avatar and a physical, one-of-a-kind Barbie-scaled version of the outfit their avatar is wearing.

The auction is live on NFT.MattelCreations.com, so get ready to bid!

 If you’ve ever wanted to be a Barbie girl in a Balmain world, this is your collection!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Balmain #BALMAINxBARBIE
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

To celebrate the launch of STEIFF‘s Swiss online shop, the brand has created a special teddy bear for Switzerland, a must for collectors.

This cute bear makes a genuine friend for life. Fynn measures 28 cm and its fur is made of cuddly soft plush. He wears a white T-shirt with an Alpine print and the Swiss flag. The bear is exclusively available on the Swiss website for CHF 47.90. Such a cute gift idea!

Finally Switzerland got its own STEIFF webshop, where you can find the brand’s complete selection of stuffed animals, baby articles, children’s fashion and limited collector items.

LoL, Sandra

Photo: © Steiff / © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post is not sponsored. I adore teddy bears!

These quirky-cute, child-like accessories (which are definitely a nostalgic nod to the ’90s) add an extra dose of fun to your outfits. Be the cool kid on the block and delve into a world of playful proportions. With Demna Gvasalia at the helm, Balenciaga retains its unique and innovative approach to fashion and plays a leading role in this trend that is suddenly everywhere.

LoL, Sandra

Embroidered poplin-trimmed shirred floral-print cotton mini dress by Gucci

Toy silver-tone beaded choker and Toy silver-tone beaded bracelet, both by Balenciaga

Dummy drop earrings by Balenciaga

Sailor-collar lambswool bodysuit by Miu Miu

Toy logo coin purse by Etro

Toys print shoulder bag by Etro

Hello Kitty XXS embellished printed leather tote by Balenciaga

Oversized distressed printed cotton-jersey top by Balenciaga

Bear-motif jumper by Moschino

Gummy Bear hoop earrings by Balenciaga

Photo: © David Biedert Photography – Stills: Courtesy of the Brands
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

As part of its Louis Vuitton for UNICEF partnership, Louis Vuitton adds four new colours of the Silver Lockit bracelets and launches its first Doudou Louis.

In continuation of its #MAKEAPROMISE campaign, Louis Vuitton is committed to raising awareness and funds for UNICEF to support the most vulnerable children around the world. Perfectly color coordinated, the new Silver Lockit bracelets come in pastel blue, pink, celadon green, and black.
Incorporating recycled silver and organic cotton for the first time, the Silver Lockit bracelets feature the iconic padlock as well as the LV signature circular logo.

In its rainbow of pastel colors, Doudou Louis, the Louis Vuitton for UNICEF teddy bear, appears for the first time in textile format. Made from organic cotton, the Monogram printed textile covers the teddy bear, with embroidered Monogram flowers making up Doudou Louis’ blue eyes.

Worldwide launch today, on January 29th, 2021.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton

Little masterpieces, wearing miniature versions from the children’s collection, designed with passion and devotion, these four new DOLCE & GABBANA dolls become the perfect mini me!

Acting as an inspiration to make the little ones dream and play, the charm of these little dolls will involve even mothers in their magical appeal.

Available to pre-order online or in selected DOLCE & GABBANA boutiques: New York Madison Avenue, Milan Corso Venezia 7, London Harrods, Hong Kong Terminal, Monte Carlo, Marbella Puerto Banus, Paris Les Galeries Lafayette.

Which one is your favorite? I adore them all…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Dolce & Gabbana #DGDolls

Happy Mother’s Day to all mums out there. If you have a girl like me, you should have a look at all this “Mini Me” fashion below. How cute is it when mum and daughter wear the same outfit… wished my little girl was still that small…

LoL, Sandra

Left: Fringed cashmere-jacquard cardigan by Alanui
Right: Ages 4 – 12 fringed cashmere-jacquard cardigan by Alanui Kids

Left: Hot In The Shade printed cotton-blend jersey tank by Paradised
Right: Neon printed cotton-jersey T-shirt by Paradised Kids

Left: Embroidered striped cotton kaftan by Pippa Holt
Right: Embroidered striped cotton kaftan by Pippa Holt Kids

Left: Ruffled printed silk mini dress by Chloé
Right: Ages 6 – 12 printed silk crepe de chine dress by Chloé Kids

Left: Embroidered cashmere sweater by Lingua Franca
Right: Ages 2 – 6 embroidered cashmere sweater by Lingua Franca Kids

Left: Honour stripe-trimmed floral-print triangle bikini top and Honour stripe-trimmed floral-print bikini briefs by Zimmermann
Right: Honour floral-print bikini by Zimmermann Kids

Left: Chiara embroidered satin sandals by Sophia Webster
Right: Size 21 – 26 Chiara glittered suede and patent-leather ballet flats by Sophia Webster Kids

Left: Superstar leather-trimmed glittered distressed suede sneakers by Golden Goose
Right: Size 28 – 35 Superstar glittered distressed suede and metallic leather sneakers by Golden Goose Kids

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands

Happy 6oth Birthday, Barbie! Time flies…  Today, every passing minute sees more than 100 dolls sold worldwide, with 58 million sold every year. The iconic plastic doll has been a surgeon, a pilot, a singer and a president. She has been in a wheelchair and has a prosthetic leg. She’s been the Duchess of Cambridge, several characters in «Mad Men» and every member of Destiny’s Child.
But on her debut at the New York Toy Fair on March 9, 1959, she was just a doll in a swimsuit and ponytail, with white sunglasses in her hand.

First Barbie in 1959

Barbie’s success has remained as she continues to reflect culture and the world girls see around them.
Her evolution has been crucial, but never was easy. Created by Ruth Handler, who owned the toy company Mattel with her husband Elliot. She was inspired by the paper dolls her daughter Barbara played with, as well as a German doll named Bild Lilli.

Did you know that the inspiration for Barbie came from German BILD Zeitung? A doll called Lilli that was created in 1955.

Immediately, Barbie had a lot of success. She was an «adult», different to the baby dolls of the time. By 1960, Barbie was gainfully employed, as either a nurse, fashion editor, or flight attendant. The next year, she had a boyfriend, Ken, and the year after that, her first car and a pink dream house.

Lately, new additions to the «Barbie Fashionistas» line included a doll using a wheelchair and another with a prosthetic leg. For International Women’s Day 2018, Mattel released a new batch of dolls based «real-life role models» (for the previous post, click here please), among them aviator Amelia Earhart and artist Frida Kahlo.

This year, more than 20 new «Sheroes» will be immortalized as Barbies: among them, supermodel and activist Adwoa Aboah, and gymnast Dipa Karmakar, the first female Indian gymnast to qualify for the Olympics.

Me dressed in the Moschino x Barbie collection (for the post, click here).

Barbie did many designer collaborations such as an amazing shoe collection with Charlotte Olympia, was dressed by the likes of Moschino, Lagerfeld, or Christian Louboutin among others.

Margot Robbie will portray Barbie in upcoming movie about the child’s toy.

At 60 years old, Barbie stars in a Netflix series, «Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures,» and has almost 40 animated films to her name. In January, it was announced that Margot Robbie will play Barbie in a live-action movie. With 2 million followers on her instagram @barbiestyle, she’s one of of the big social media influencers and shares her outfits, and street-style shots.

I have been a Barbie fan since my early childhood and am proud of my pretty impressive collection. In my daughter’s old playroom, we still kept the Barbie corner. Happy Birthday, Barbie! Thanks to you, I feel sometimes like a little girl again…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Via Barbie and © Sandra Bauknecht 

Last week to celebrate International Women’s Day, Mattel unveiled «role model» Barbies. After decades of focusing on their beauty and fashion sense, the famous dolls show finally their brains, strength and power as well. Not your average Barbies, these dolls are «Sheroes», meaning women who are heroes, designed to give young girls a range of inspirational and positive female idols.

The new dolls came after Mattel conducted a survey of 8,000 mothers around the globe and found that 86% are worried about the kind of role models their daughters are exposed to. Mattel’s series of empowering women dolls range from both the past and present.

Amelia Earhart, Aviation Pioneer

Many view this development as a thoroughly refreshing and progressive addition to the toy market like me. The new range showcases women from an array of professions: it includes US snowboarder Chloe Kim, Australian conservationist Bindi Irwin, Chinese volleyball champion Hui Ruoqi and French chef Helene Darroze. The range is ethnically diverse, Ibtihaj Muhammad stands for the first hijab-wearing Barbie and Mexican artist Frieda Kahlo is another «Shero» in the collection.

Ibtihaj Muhammad, Fencing Champion

But there are many voices criticizing the new dolls for still looking like «Barbie» as Mattel minimized the typical features that also have made these women special such as the famous Kahlo‘s famous monobrow (Barbie’s brows are thicker but not exactly looking like Frida) or the muscles of boxer Nicola Adams Obe.

Mattel’s message: «Inspire your little ones to paint a world of possibilities!»

Frida Kahlo, Artist

Nevertheless, it’s a great start and kids will love to have dolls that represent aspirational career paths and commemorate inspiring women. From «Sheroes» to «Inspiring Women», have a look at the latest Barbie role models – all extraordinary women honored with a doll in their likeness.

Leyla Piedayesh, Fashion Designer and Entrepreneur

By the way there is even a German lady among them: Iranian born Leyla Piedayesh who is the founder of fashion label lala Berlin. Congrats! Only a blogger is missing… I think for good when there is a real journalist as an influencer could probably be a quite tricky role model for a young girl.

LoL, Sandra

Nicola Adams Obe, Boxing Champion

Martyna Wojciechowska, Journalist

Patty Jenkins, Filmmaker

Chloe Kim, Snowboarding Champion

Hélène Darroze, World-Renowned Chef

Gabby Douglas, Gymnastics Champion

Katherine Johnson, NASA Mathematician and Physicist

Bindi Irwin, Conservationist

Yuan Yuan Tan, Prima Ballerina

Ashley Graham, Model And Body Activist

Sara Gama, Soccer Player

Hui Ruoqi, Volleyball Champion

Xiaotong Guan, Actress and Philanthropist

Ava Duvernay, Film Director

Photos: Courtesy of Mattel