Sandra‘s Closet

According to Tim Blanks, the ninth-floor penthouse, where Roberto Cavalli presented his F/W 2013 men’s collection Sunday night in Milan, once belonged to the Gucci who was gunned down by his wife. Overlooking the rooftops of Milan, the spectacular views were the perfect backdrop for the outstanding presentation. Daniele Cavalli, who has been at the helmet of the menswear arm since two years, had a vision and transformed the amazing flat into a gentlemen’s club in impressive colours of purple and burgundy.

Instead of a fashion show, the collection was presented on mannequins, next to the photos and videos created by well-known photographer Rankin. I totally liked that approach as you could truly look at all the details of the looks and believe me, there were many.

Precious fabrics, from crocodile-printed pony skin to all-over sequined embroideries, of course the uniqueness of a print, and Daniele’s strongest talent, the combination of all those eye-catching details (see all the photos below please).

Daniele told me a little about his inspiration, that he used a teleidoscope, a kind of kaleidoscope, to create his very special prints, in form of kaleidoscopic patterns.

So then, no fashion shows this season. The reason?
The runway and the long walk before the public and photographers enhances and highlights the spectacular nature of feminine seduction. The same does not apply to the male essence. On the contrary, this might be the motive behind the skepticism of many men towards fashion. This collection aims at celebrating male reality.

Many famous journalists attended the event, among them Suzy Menkes…

… and Tim Blanks, who were both listening to Daniele’s vision.

Eva Cavalli chatting with Tim Blanks

Guests of the event were spoilt to all sorts of Cavalli Vodka drinks and enjoyed a musical performance of The Cyborgs. A fashion show that was more a fashion party in the world’s most stylish gentlemen’s club ever. Thumbs up!

Have fun looking at all the photos from the amazing night!

LoL, Sandra

Photographer Rankin with Alex Postiglione

Me at work in the kaleidoscopic room where the accessories were presented.

Olivier Zahm (Purple magazine) with me
Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

When money’s no object and your other half has everything he can wish for, finding a perfect Christmas present might be quite challenging. Only the most unique or outrageous for your loved one will obviously do, so here’s my pick of the ridiculously extravagant and special, part fantasy and all fun, from a ten thousand dollar backgammon set to a bag filled with garden tools.

Technology and men, you cannot go wrong with that! This limited edition cell phone was designed by Lapo Elkann, heir to Italy’s Fiat Automotive empire, and the creator of one of the most modern labels today, Italia Independent, in collaboration with Vertu. 
The phone boasts with the vibrant blue motif of Italia Independent and offers all the luxury concierge services Vertu is known for.
Constellation Blue by Vertu – CHF 9.700

For the nature lover:
Bag filled with garden tools by Prada, CHF 1990.-

This might be the perfect addition for your gardener to enjoy a snack outside:
3-piece picnic cutlery set by Hermès – CHF 1400.-

Luxury gaming is the perfect gift for the holiday season.
Chess set boxed in the house’s iconic Saffiano leather by Prada – CHF 3240.-

Hermès is also in the game and proposes, of course, something truly luxurious:
Backgammon set by Hermès – CHF 11050.-
The very exclusive piece is competing with …

… Prada’s playful approach at a more accessible price.
Backgammon set and Nine Men’s Morris, both by Prada, each CHF 2490.-

Miuccia’s “It-bag” for all lovers of this sport:
Golf bag – CHF 1240.- and tees – CHF 200.-, both by Prada

A very exclusive scent might always be a good choice. Let me introduce you to the new Essenze by Ermenegildo Zegna collection, comprising of five signature fragrances, each dedicated to one raw material, Italian Bergamot, Sicilian Mandarin, Javanese Patchouli, Indonesian Oud and Florentine Iris.

Available exclusively in Ermenegildo Zegna Boutiques (Switzerland, Singapore, Korea, Japan, Italy, UK, France, Germany, Austria, North America and Mexico).
In Zurich also sold at Jelmoli. Each scent (125ml) – CHF 260.-

For the true connoisseur: Your beloved one will love you for this leather travel case and spray, that will surely become his portable business trip companion. Not only is it the perfect size to slide into his briefcase, but, at 30ml, it’s way beneath the 100ml liquid limit on flights.
Acqua di Parma Essenza Leather Travel Spray – CHF 120.- (30ml)

Or how about this collector’s item designed by Silvia Fendi: A quintessentially case in black crocodile embossed leather for the Italian house’s signature scent, a limited edition object of luxury and desire bearing the emblematic Fendi codes. 
In Switzerland only available at the Fendi Boutique in Geneva.
Fan di FENDI Pour Homme Eau de Toilette, Limited Edition 2012 – CHF 337.-

Your world-travelling husband and boyfriend will thank you forever! Sleepless nights and drowsy mornings have become a common experience in today’s life. This bracelet with it’s Natural Frequency Technology helps wearers with a good and restful sleep and you might want to steal it off his wrist …
Sleep Bracelet with Natural Frequency Technology by Philip Stein, CHF 360.-
Available at Swiss Shop Duty Free, in Zurich at Max Affolter Uhren & Bijouterie, Limmatquai.

Who says I don’t cater to all tastes, here is an offbeat way to spice up your beloved man’s pen collection. You just have to choose if he is more the gun or sword type…
Pens, each CHF 330.- and document cases, each CHF 490.-, both by Prada

I hope that you have found some inspirations!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Hermès, Prada, Vertu, Philip Stein, Ermenegildo Zegna, Acqua di Parma

Louis Vuitton is always good for beautiful Christmas gift inspirations. The French house’s holiday brochure is full of perfect surprises for the festive season. The bags are guaranteed winners, and the accessories are everything a LV fan could want. Dear Santa, below is my wish list…

LoL, Sandra

Tote MM Majestueux bordeaux, in Monogram, leather, lizard and ostrich

Lockit Monogram Transparent noir (Collection Cruise 2013)

Bag Charm Carrousel marron.

Suitcase 35 Christmas Baubles in Monogram (How amazing are Louis Vuitton ornaments for your tree?!)

Charm Car, white and yellow gold, diamonds

Vuitton City Guides 2013 suitcases in Monogram Macassar

Calypso MM in Damier Inifini onyx for MEN

Montre Tambour Voyagez II, rose gold

Sequined Shoes for MEN

Photos: Courtesy of Louis Vuitton

Daniele Cavalli‘s reign at his family label has elevated the iconic style to another, more contemporary and definitely sexier level. The young Florentine is in charge for the house’s menswear label since a few seasons and I am absolutely in love wit his creations. In my dream world, men would walk around in those clothes from day to night.

Young Daniele has an amazing sense for colours and for creating new interesting materials, as he transformed tiger stripes into a tonal motif on a black leather bomber jacket for F/W 2012. The purple duffle coat and croc print silk scarf would take every man’s outfit to new heights.

You can shop Roberto Cavalli Men at LUISAVIAROMA.COM and FARFETCH.COM.

Me with Daniele, whom, it would not be hard to imagine in many of the looks.

Sketches & mood boards

Beautiful black & white photo in the last issue of Italian Max featuring a Roberto Cavalli Menswear S/S 2012 total look! Great style!

Robert Pattinson wears Roberto Cavalli yellow trousers in the September 2012 issue of BlackBook. Awesome pic!

This is a photo of the Roberto Cavalli F/W 2012 Menswear advertising campaign.

For S/S 2013, Daniele got inspired by the butterfly, the icon of transformation, and used a cage filled with them as the backdrop of show. From caterpillar to cocoon to full glam rock chic, if you’re going to be in Roberto Cavalli’s gang next summer, you will need some pastel shades of lilac and sky blue. To add Daniele’s signature ’70s feel, go for his metallic purples and silver. The thin lapelled-suits with neck scarves should definitely be on your wish list, gentlemen!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Roberto Cavalli, via BlackBook and Italian Max

Lorenzo Villoresi presented his latest fragrance MARE NOSTRUM AURA MARIS during Pitti Fragranze in Florence.

Mare Nostrum is the ancient name of the Mediterranean sea, a theme that the Florentine perfumer has always loved, rich of cultural, historical, mythological, environmental suggestions. Such a variety of different worlds and precious visions cannot be contained in only one fragrance.

This is why he is launching today the first fragrance of the Mare Nostrum collection, Aura Maris, the sea breeze. This fresh and gentle scent will be followed by other creations inspired by the many visions and sensations of the Mare Nostrum concept.

MARE NOSTRUM
Crossed by sweet currents, caressed by the breath of soft breezes and countless changing perfumes. Mighty, generous sea, the scene of exciting visions that cannot be told, salvation and danger alike for men and for heroes. There, skimming the crest of the waves, Poseidon rides his chariot drawn by golden-maned horses. In the deepest seas fair Nereides live, their long locks wafting in the foamy waters, to the sound of the salty surf.

AURA MARIS
The sea breeze gently brushing the ocean waves, bearing happy tidings of the summer sun, with the aromas from the Mediterranean shrubs. The tingling fragrance of the salty foam, the sunlit reflections of citrus fruits the lightest touch of meadow flowers and the golden rays of the sun on a glimmering sea.

Top notes: Fresh, green, citrus with Bergamot notes, Mandarin and soft floral fruity touches.
Middle notes: Fresh, floral with aromatic woods nuances, Narcissus, Patchouli, Jasmine.
Base notes: Fresh citrus floral, with soft ambery, musky and woody touches.

For a previous post on Lorenzo Villoresi, click here please.

LoL, Sandra

This fall, Tom Ford introduces four new Private Blend fragrances. The collection, so-called JARDIN NOIR, is dedicated to four classical flowers: Narcissus, hyacinth, rose and lily. “When you showcase their darker and less innocent aspects, flowers can become so thrilling and beautiful, they could almost ruin you. That was the sensation I was after,” says Tom Ford.

Here are the four new amazing scents:
Jonquille de Nuit, Ombre de Hyacinth, Café Rose and Lys Fume.

Jonquille de Nuit

”Unusual top notes of wild Alpine cyclamen, acacia and angelica seeds, balanced with Egyptian violet leaf and bitter orange leaf absolute, provide a contrasting structure which allows the heady narcissus heart to spill into the senses. This powerful floral vibration is pushed, heightened, and teased to the brink—until a sensual, hypnotic base of orris and warm amber arrest this frenetic blossoming.”

Ombre de Hyacinth

”Merged with the rich earthiness of galbanum and the green drive of violet leaf, then enhanced with a glamorous veil of Magnolia leaf ORPUR and cool, incense-inflected Olibanum, lovely Hyacinth becomes a maddening enigma. It plays distance against desire with gem-like shimmers of pink peppercorn and jasmine absolute that tease and entice. The tension finally breaks as Persian galbanum, benzoin and musk pull back the curtain to reveal Hyacinth’s addicting sensuality.”

Café Rose (My favourite)

”Three precious rose essences dance with exotic spices and dark coffee. Saffron and black pepper entice the tight blossoms of Rose de Mai to unfurl. Then, the lush and saturated heart of precious Turkish rose oil and Bulgarian rose absolute creates an enveloping, narcotic haze—until a teasing bite of coffee essence cuts through the romance and awakens dervish passion. Incense resin, amber, sandalwood and patchouli surround this dance with sensual, creamy depth.”

Lys Fume

”Soft notes of Italian mandarin and pink peppercorn and cool, spicy nutmeg and turmeric entice you into a lush and overgrown garden of night-blooming tropical white lilies, tangled with ylang ylang from Moheli. The intoxicating air, soaked with this expansive floral effect, is streaked with the beautiful, sub-tropical melancholy of balsamic, South Indian davana essence and West Indian Demerara rum essence. A woody harmony of rich vanilla absolute from Madagascar, amber-toned cistus labdanum, styrax and oakwood creates a dreamy, hypnotic warmth.”

The collection will be available at all Tom Ford Private Blend counters from September 2012 in Switzerland. 50ml (CHF 250.-) and 250ml (CHF 660.-)

Gentlemen, pay attention. This fall, here is the elixir that will infatuate the ladies around you. TOM FORD NOIR includes notes of bergamot, verbena, caraway, baie rose, violet flower, black pepper, nutmeg, iris, geranium, rose, clary sage, opoponax, amber, patchouli, vetiver, civet and vanilla. A truly sexy composition.

Ladies, be careful. This scent is dangerous stuff!

Tom Ford Noir will be available from September 2012. 50ml (CHF 120.-) and 100ml (CHF 156.-).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Tom Ford

LUNA ROSSA, Prada’s newest men’s fragrance, seeks inspiration from the Italian house’s sailboat of the eponymous name which regularly participates in the prestigious America’s Cup (For more information on the famous competition, scroll to the end of this post please).

The scent and ingredients blended by Daniela Andrier, Prada Luna Rossa is a masculine fragrance without compromise that reinterprets traditional ingredients with agility.

A wave of aromatic freshness crashes through the scent conveying strength and dynamic energy, while its signature is noble and sensual.The backbone of the fragrance is lavender – an unmistakable natural ingredient in perfumery – but here pushed to the edge in a unique modern interpretation. Even the Prada Luna Rossa fragrance bottle is inspired by the technological excellence and sleek, dynamic beauty of extreme sailing boats. The power of the elements is reflected in the materials and design, which project both strength and sophistication.

Top Notes: Lavender Absolute and Bitter Orange
Middle Notes: Clary Sage and Spearmint Nanah
Base Notes: Ambroxan and Ambrette Absolute

Prada Luna Rossa for Men EdT 50ml (CHF 87.-) / EdT 100ml (CHF 117.-)
Aftershave Lotion 125ml (CHF 85.-)
Shower Gel 200ml CHF 50.-)
Deodorant 150ml (CHF 45.-)

Available September 2012.

The Luna Rossa Story

The America’s Cup is the most coveted and elusive prize in sport and the apex of the sailing world. It is an intense competition propelled by an almost mythological history, the obsession and dedication of its participants and thrilling advances in design and engineering. It is a race fought along lines of technology and athleticism, but fundamentally bound by the forces of nature; enjoyed the world over both for the visceral excitement of the competition and the grace of the boats as they cut through the waves.

The Luna Rossa sailing team emerged from the shared determination and grand ambition of two men. Patrizio Bertelli, CEO of Prada and German Frers, one of the world’s foremost yacht designers, met in 1997 to discuss a cruising boat and the designer made a provocative jibe – “why not the America’s Cup?”. There was no turning back. In order to meet strict entry deadlines Bertelli organized a crew from scratch in a record time of just two weeks – a process usually taking many months. Since then, the Luna Rossa team is one of the most renowned and beloved competitors of the America’s Cup – the oldest and most prestigious trophy in sport.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Prada, © Carlo Borlenghi

Fan di Fendi pour Homme is the first ever Fendi men’s fragrance. And great news is that the famous English DJ, musician and music producer Mark Ronson is the face of the ad campaign.

This masculine scent aims at mysterious, sophisticated and urban men who radiate charisma and modern elegance. Therefore, the composition tends to be both fresh and modern, as well as classic and refined. Created by perfumers François Demachy, in collaboration with Delphine Lebeau and Benoist Lapouza, its character is fresh woody-aromatic.

Top notes: Sicilian mandarin, bergamot and basil
Middle notes: Pink pepper, cardomom, gardenia and Texan cedarwood
Base notes: Leather accord, tonca bean and patchouli

In the ad campaign, Anja Rubik and Mark Ronson are actually snuggling up in the back of a car. Probably you should be asking yourself if buying this scent for your better half might be dangerous because an array of women will be all over him…

CHF 83.70 (50ml) and CHF 116.10 (100ml)
Available in Switzerland from September 14, 2012 exclusively at Marionnaud.

LoL, Sandra

Mark Ronson with me at the Versace for H&M launch party in NYC
Photos: Courtesy of Fendi and © Sandra Bauknecht

“After creating Flowerbomb, we felt a twinge of jealousy: why aren’t we allowed our own bomb?” – Viktor & Rolf

In 2005, Viktor & Rolf launched its first bomb: a profusion of flowers in an excessively sensual fragrance for women… Created by famous perfumer Olivier Polge, the Flowerbomb legend was born. This September, men will have their turn.

Spicebomb, an explosion of the senses

Instant olfactory detonation. Viktor & Rolf is once again overturning convention with the help of Olivier Polge and revealing a fragrance that makes no concessions. An explosive concentrate of masculine sensuality. Surprising at first breath, its spices addictive from the very next second…

Top Notes: Chili, saffron, leather, tobacco and vetiver
Middle Notes: Bergamot and grapefruit
Base Notes: Elemi and pink pepper

Long-standing collaborators of Viktor & Rolf, the photographers Inez Van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin created a visual campaign for Spicebomb that makes an instant impression.

The American model Sean O’Pry is in the line of sight: a mysterious, almost iconic beauty. Classic, but sexy. Virile, but sensual. What a feast for the eyes, ladies!

Just looking at the bottle you know that something is about to… go boom!

A tailor-made grenade revisited for a fragrance with an explosive scent. A chic and sophisticated weapon, given a twist with the arty touch that characterizes Viktor & Rolf. The ultimate detail: the fragrance is released by priming the pin.

Available end of September 2012.
EdT  50ml (CHF 89.-) and 90ml (CHF 119.-)

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Viktor & Rolf

Today is the start of the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London, United Kingdom, officially the Games of the XXX Olympiad. So time to show your Olympic spirit.

Bally’s men’s West H. sneaker collection makes it easy to show your national pride. Fly the flag for your own nation.

Twelve casual leather sneakers pay homage to twelve different countries. Each West H. sneaker features a national flag screen printed with a cool vintage effect that includes Great Britain, Switzerland, the USA, Germany, Italy, France, Japan and more.

And Bally’s charming Bally-rina is back, this time to captivate us with her sporty London 2012 Olympic spirit in a specially designed women’s sneaker and tote.

The red stitched Athena high-top sneaker features a back zip which cutely reveals the very sweet Bally-rina whimsically waving a gymnastics ribbon in blue, red, green and yellow colours. The same motif can be found on the Hanoe fabric tote.

Both, Bally’s West H. sneaker collection and the Bally-rina collection are available in store and online. Bally offers free shipping at the moment for the sportive collection. Just enter promo code SPORTBALLY at checkout.

For collectors and most loyal fans of the Olympic Games, the Coca-Cola collector’s box Special Olympics five glasses grouping is available exclusively at Colette now. The 5 glasses come with a collector bottle and a tote bag.

Celebrate the 2012 London Olympics with the commemorative Butter London‘s Olympic Heavy Medal Collection. The set includes three beautiful, metallic nail lacquers worthy of standing upon the winners’ podium, all limited editions. 
Colours: The Full Monty, Diamond Geezer and The Old Bill.

Solange Azagury-Partridge has designed the Britannia Hotlips ring to celebrate the games. The renowned iconic Hotlips design featuring the British flag is a fun and original lucky charm- one last good luck kiss for the athletes!

For all winners among you, take sartorial gold in Markus Lupfer‘s playful sequin medal-embellished merino wool sweater. Decorated with signature charm and wit, this piece is sure to turn heads.

Take a playful approach to the sporting season with these ‘2012 Olympics’-inspired briefs by Team Great Britain’s Creative Director Stella McCartney. Cut from a blend of white cotton and silk, this colorfully embroidered pair will make a whimsical addition to your lingerie drawer.

Just click on the highlighted text to shop those must-have pieces.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Bally, Colette, Net-à-porter, Solange Azagury-Partridge and via Telegraph