Sandra‘s Closet

My dearest readers, today, I have the most amazing contest for you: win a spa weekend for two with SISLEY and great news is that the lucky winner can choose the destination.

Two options are available, which are both absolutely amazing, Le Richmond Geneva or the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz.

With email at your fingertips, nonstop group texting, and around-the-clock social media delights and distractions, actually making the time to unwind is overly important. Take your loved one on a weekend trip that will boost your energy level, get your glow back and will leave you with some beautiful memories.

Personally speaking, friends are often asking me how I can keep up with my level of stress, the constant travels and permanent social media activities. My key is taking some time off in between. So I went for a great spa weekend to the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz which is one of the destinations you can choose from.

Taking a break from everyday life at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz.

Being just four miles from the Tamina Gorge, where the physician and alchemist Paracelsus documented the healing powers of the Bad Ragaz spring water in the 16th century, the Grand Resort is comprised of two hotels: Grand Hotel Quellenhof & Spa Suites and Grand Hotel Hof Ragaz. It continues this tradition of health and wellness with its 12,800-square-meter spa, one of the largest in Europe. The sprawling complex features ten spring-water-filled indoor and outdoor pools, three sauna and steambath zones, Asian treatment suites and a private spa.

If you are looking for regeneration from the inside out, this place sets you on the right path. The best? Some amazing treatments by SISLEY.

Some of my Sisley favorites…

As you know, I am addicted to some of the beauty brand’s products, such as the So Intense Mascara, the Black Rose Cream Mask and the Sisleÿa Global Anti-Age Cream among many other. Launched in 1976 by Hubert d’Ornano, the private skin care and fragrance company is still owned by the family. The company’s production, administration, and research laboratories are located in France. Sisley high end products are primarily manufactured in its ultra-modern factory in Blois, located in the Loir-et-Cher department.

Relaxed and happy after the Sisley treatments at the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz.

To participate in the contest and discover all the details, click HERE please.
The deadline for the raffle is January 6, 2017.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

«I love seeing a woman in a man’s suit. Why not have a lipstick named after a man?» – Tom Ford

My dearest ladies, it is time for you to meet the new boys. Tom Ford has it all worked out for us, lipsticks and the stronger sex, what else do we need. LIPS & BOYS is a 50-piece lipstick lineup that unveils now 25 new shades, literally 25 new boys, including for the first time, 10 modern matte shades, all available now for CHF 39.00 (2g) each.

From nuanced nudes like Bradley and Alexander to the unabashed bold reds of Nicholas and Dominic, all lipsticks come with specially-treated pigments that deliver pure color to suit our every mood. What I love most about them is the small size as they fit perfectly in my evening clutches.

My favourite shades? Patrick, a fresh and vibrant coral and Ashton, a rosy berry.

If you are living in Zurich, come and visit Jelmoli this weekend. You are invited to experience the new lipstick collection in the presence of some handsome male models – each of them representing another type of boy. And of course your favorite one will pose with you for a cute selfie that you can share on instagram with the hashtag #TFLIPSANDBOYS.

For all living abroad, the new shades are also available online HERE.
Have fun!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Johannes Diboky and Courtesy of Estée Lauder

This summer, Clarins has opened the doors of a new beauty temple in Zurich. Hard to believe, this new concept marks the first of its kind for the French brand in Europe.

Located in the city center at Gebergasse 6, just around the corner of the prestigious Bahnhofstrasse and very close to the Jelmoli parking, the new Clarins Boutique & Skin Spa houses the complete range of products, from fine scents to high performance skin care on the ground floor.

One level up, the skin spa welcomes its customers for the most exclusive skin treatments. The second floor is reserved for the in-house training center. Altogether, the shop has a size of more than 280 square meters.

Clarins Boutique & Skin Spa opening party in Zurich

I truly recommend a visit to indulge into the world of Clarins. In 1954, Jacques Courtin-Clarins had a pioneering vision when he opened his first Clarins institute in Paris. Still today, the house is known for creating luxury products based exclusively on plants as the eternal source of inspiration and innovation.

Flown in for the occasion: Prisca Courtin-Clarins (SPAs, My Blend and Retail Director Clarins), Laurent Malaveille (General Manager Clarins Switzerland) and Natalie Bader (CEO Clarins).

During the hectic holiday season, let time stand still while you enjoy a treatment, and some time for yourself. Or find a little gift for a loved one as this very cute advent calendar that I got for myself.

24 days filled with little surprises, beauty products in small sizes that I love to take with me when travelling. Available for CHF 99.00.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Clarins

In 2012, my relationship as MONTBLANC ambassador started with the launch of my very own ink Sandra Berry, a fuchsia hue, that was limited to 100 pieces.

My beautiful limited edition Sandra Berry ink by Montblanc.

Now, in 2016, I was honored to be part of their new social media campaign that focuses on the Urban Spirit collection, a brand new leather line defined by its innovative functionality – the ultimate companion for the independent traveller’s daily needs.

Being featured on Montblanc’s Facebook page along with brand ambassador Hugh Jackman, how cool is this?!

For the campaign I had to answer some questions about myself and the city of Zurich:

Favorite place in your city and why ?
I love the area around the Stadthausquai and the Münsterbrücke as it makes me feel like being in Paris. It shows the beauty of Zurich in perfection.

What does Urban Spirit in your city inspires you?
The urban spirit of Zurich is very cosmopolitan, combining Swiss traditions with cultural influences from all over the world. It is a melting pot that inspires me every day just by hearing different languages. Zurich is a metropole and a small little village at the same time, a place where you can do business and feel like being on holidays with its beautiful mountains and stunning lake.

And here are the social media campaign photos shot by lovely Andrea Monica Hug:

Stay tuned for all the details of the look coming up soon!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Montblanc

Straight from sunny Florence I flew to back to snowy Switzerland to visit the manufacture of Audemars Piguet in Le Brassus in the Vallée de Joux. Being the oldest fine watchmaker that is still in the hands of its founding families (Audemars and Piguet), I had the chance to indulge in the brand’s history and to explore the craftsmanship first hand.

Wearing a work coat and shoe covers for protection at the manufacture.

The modern part of the manufacture.

Since 1875, the company has written some of the finest chapters in the history of Haute Horlogerie, including a number of world firsts. At the heart of the Swiss Jura, numerous masterpieces are created in limited series embodying a remarkable degree of horological perfection, including daring sporty models, classic and traditional timepieces, splendid ladies’ jewellery-watches, as well as one-of-a-kind creations.

I was deeply impressed seeing the precision that goes into the assemblage of the 3120 movement that comes also with my favorite watch, the Royal Oak Frosted Gold  – 37 mm .

The entrance to the museum.

Over the years, Audemars Piguet has collected vintage models that are beautifully presented in the in-house museum that is only open to private tours.

An impressive family history

Musical watch, around 1840, Piguet & Meyland

Repetition Minutes, 1875, Louis Audemars

The first Royal Oak was designed by Gérald Genta in 1972.

Until today, all information on sold watches are written down by hand. In the ’30s, customers included Bulgari, Van Cleef and Bucherer.

At the moment, Audemars Piguet is building a new museum in Le Brassus designed by Danish architectural firm BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group). Incorporating the existing building, the new form of a hairspring will showcase the history of the oldest, family owned watchmaker (see below).

LoL, Sandra

Collage and last photo: Courtesy of Audemars Piguet, all other photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Last week during the Zurich Film Festival, I was guest of NESPRESSO to see the Swiss premiere of «Bridget Jones Baby», the continuing adventures of British publishing executive Bridget Jones as she enters her 40s, starring Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth and Patrick Dempsey. «What if» is a major question in this movie that is so much fun. I was laughing through the entire film. The good vibes of the evening continued after the screening with the delicious plates prepared with passion and originality by the young and talented chef Ralph Schelling.

My look: Lace-paneled stretch-silk cady gown by Alessandra Rich, palladium-tone, crystal and Plexiglas® necklace and earrings, both by Miu Miu, padlock mini studded leather shoulder bag by Alexander McQueen and cutout leather platform pumps by Saint Laurent, diamond ring by Vainard Fine Jewellery and Tonda 1950 Set Clarity watch by Parmigiani Fleurier.

Greetings from NYC where I am at the moment for a new amazing project coming up soon…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Nespresso, © Andrea Monica Hug (event and me at the event) © David Biedert Photography (photos of me outside in color)  and © Sandra Bauknecht

Friday night, Tommy Hilfiger hosted an exclusive dinner during the Zurich Film Festival. The American designer had come to Switzerland with his wife Dee for this very special occasion along other celebrities such as Olivia Palermo with her husband Johannes Huebl, «Harry Potter» star Daniel Radcliffe, who premiered his new movie «Imperium» and Woody Harrelson, who was for «LBJ» in the Swiss metropole.

The location as Daniel Grieder, CEO Tommy Hilfiger, stated couldn’t have been a better match. The Razzia restaurant with its neoclassical architecture was Zurich’s first cinema in the 1920s.

After a lovely dinner, guests enjoyed live performances by Swiss music star Marc Sway and Dutch singer Glennis Grace. It was truly a great night and I danced until dawn.

Festival director Nadja Schildknecht, CEO Tommy Hilfiger and PVH Daniel Grieder and his wife Sandra, both ladies looking stunning in their Tommy Hilfiger suits.

Daniel Grieder welcoming his guests at Razzia.

Style icon Olivia Palermo with model husband Johannes Huebl, Dee and Tommy Hilfiger.

German actress Veronica Ferres at the Tommy Hilfiger Dinner in celebration of the 12th Zurich Film Festival.

With Woody Harrelson.

Great show! Singer Marc Sway performed without a microphone.

Two Hollywood stars in Zurich: Woody Harrelson and Daniel Radcliffe.

Great ambiance at the after party.

A truly lovely guy that I captured especially for my daughter: Daniel Radcliffe.

Thank you, Tommy Hilfiger, for another amazing dinner party! Truly a highlight of the Zurich Film Festival…

LoL, Sandra

Photos by Andreas Rentz/Getty Images for Tommy Hilfiger and © Sandra Bauknecht

During the Zurich Film Festival, one of the biggest highlights is the exclusive dinner hosted by Tommy Hilfiger. Last year, the American designer himself welcomed the guests at Razzia restaurant and thanked his long-time CEO Daniel Grieder on stage. Later, stars such as Johannes Huebl, Moritz Bleibtreu, and Elisa Sednaoui listened to the private concert by Marlon Roudette.

Playsuits and over-the-knee boots are definitely no longer for fashion victims only, they have become a must this season.

My look: Silk-chiffon playsuit by Emilio Pucci, bi-colour Sac De Jour nano leather tote by Saint Laurent, suede over-the-knee boots by Dior, earrings by Chanel, Diorette ring by Dior Haute Joaillerie, bar cuff in rose gold by Balenciaga and Lady Excalibur watch by Roger Dubuis .

Stay tuned… tonight it is time for the Tommy Hilfiger dinner again.

LoL, Sandra

With lovely Silvia Binggeli, Editor-in-Chief of Annabelle.

Nadja Schildknecht, Daniel Grieder CEO Tommy Hilfiger and PVH Europe, Elisa Sednaoui, Tommy Hilfiger, Clara Paget and Johannes Huebl.

Marlon Roudette entertaining the crowd at the Tommy Hilfiger dinner.

With German actor Moritz Bleibtreu.

Photos: Courtesy of Tommy Hilfiger and © Sandra Bauknecht

Last Thursday, the opening night of the 12th Zurich Film Festival took place with the screening of the drama «Lion» that stars Dev Patel, Nicole Kidman and David Wenham. It is a very sad movie based on the true story of a five-year-old boy who gets lost on the streets of Calcutta, thousands of kilometers from home. He survives many challenges before being adopted by a couple in Australia; 25 years later, he sets out to find his lost family.

Festival directors and founders of the ZFF Nadja Schildknecht and Karl Spoerri with Iain Canning, Garth Davis and Harvey Weinstein on the green carpet before the screening.

For the opening night, film mogul Harvey Weinstein, director Garth Davis and producer Iain Canning had flown in. All three joined ASMALLWORLD at the dazzling opening night for an exclusive dinner at Conti restaurant, followed by an after-party to dance the night away.

My look: Candace novelty essential dress by Hervé Léger, leather bag with logo by Moschino, leather T-strap sandals with pearls by Gucci, «Extremely Piaget Lace Decoration» cuff  and pendant, both by Piaget.

I truly love the color combination of the berry hue and the turquoise details.

Extremely Piaget “Lace Decoration” pendant in 18K pink gold, set with 356 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 5.69 ct) and 25 turquoise pearls.

Extremely Piaget “Lace Decoration” cuff in 18K pink gold, set with 1,602 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 20.87 ct) and 50 turquoise cabochons.

I hope that you enjoyed the impressions and my look of the first night at the ZFF. There will be a lot more coming up soon… so please stay tuned!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Muriel Hilti/Custom Images, © Sandra Bauknecht and © Asmallworld

PRADA has finally established a commanding presence in Zurich again with a new boutique on the legendary Bahnhofstrasse; one of the most exclusive shopping enclaves in Switzerland.

The new space covers a total area of approximately 1,100 square meters over three floors and offers collections for both men and women. In design, Prada sought to combine the strength of its own heritage with a dynamic evolution of style and technology.

Borsani chairs evoke classic Italian design while a sleek black marble façade and rhythmic composition of windows harmonize with the architectural elements of the existing building. The iconic checkerboard motif is reinterpreted through the use of accentuated color schemes. Expansive video walls, green ceiling beams, floors laid with yellow and white geometric patterns and green Alpine marble accents enhance furnishings and spaces.

The ground floor is dedicated to leathergoods, accessories and women’s footwear. The first floor is exclusive to women’s collections and offers very intimate spaces for Made to Order services. The second floor, dedicated to the men’s collections and Made to Measure, is characterized by more masculine colors, furnishings and geometric elements.

Last week, PRADA hosted a private VIP opening event where guests got to explore the gorgeous store before its official party this Thursday.

Checking out the beautiful Galleria Saffiano small leather shoulder bag collection.

You can shop PRADA also online now at mytheresa.com and net-à-porter.com.

Enjoy some more photos below of the amazing new shop in Zurich and stay tuned for more…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Prada, © David Biedert Photography