Sandra‘s Closet

Today, I have some fun news for you. The famous Crazy Horse Paris is coming to Switzerland as part of their Forever Crazy World Tour. On Friday, 7th March 2014 the 10 Crazy Girls from the classic Parisian revue theatre are to hold two performances in Badrutt’s Palace Hotel of their show with unique and sensuous choreography. Combined with stunning lighting effects, original music and daring outfits, you can expect a show that has no equal.

ABOUT CRAZY HORSE PARIS
60 years ago, the founder of the Crazy Horse cabaret, Alain Bernardin, was fascinated by American show girls and women in general. He was driven by a single idea – to make feminine beauty and artistic creation his focus. Over the years he developed his own particular style. This includes the tradition upheld to this day that each dancer is christened with her own unique stage name before her first Le Crazy performance. So the troupe is made up of names such as Shiny Shadow, Loa Vahina and Lila Magnetic.

CRAZY FACTS & FIGURES
• It takes a dressmaker on average one week to make a single costume
• Each dancer has at least six pairs of specially made shoes
• Each dancer uses 500 litres of body make-up, 300 lipsticks in Crazy Red, 720 pairs of false eyelashes and 2,500 pairs of stockings every year
• It takes three months of intensive training for a classically trained dancer to be ready to slip into the role of a Crazy Girl
• World renowned fashion designers such as Paco Rabanne, Loris Azzaro, Karl Lagerfeld, Emmanuel Ungaro and Azzedine Alaia have designed Crazy costumes
• Christina Aguilera drew inspiration for her music video »Hurt« from the Crazy dancers
• Christian Louboutin designed various shoes for the shows
• Dita Von Teese became the first guest star at Le Crazy in October 2006 in Paris, followed amongst others by Pamela Anderson in February 2008

Performances on 7th of March, 2014 begin at 7.30pm and 10pm in the ›Embassy Ballroom‹. 
Tickets from CHF 220.00 – To book and for further information please call:+41 (0)81 837 2659 or
send an e-mail to: .

If you cannot make it to St. Moritz, I recommend anyone in Paris to go see it. The show is absolutely amazing.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Crazy Horse Paris

“One night in Bangkok and the world’s your oyster. The bars are temples but the pearls ain’t free. I can feel the Devil walking next to me…” – Murray Head

I spent one night in Bangkok that would put the most amazing nights in the shade. It just had everything you can imagine. I started with drinks at Sirocco Sky Bar, located on the 64th floor of the Lebua State Tower, which is the second tallest building in Thailand. You might recognize the building as it was prominently featured in the 2011 American film Hangover Part 2. This is where the helicopter scene was filmed. I had barely seen a location that breathtaking in my life before. Named “the most stunning rooftop bar you’ll ever see” by the New York Times, you can enjoy stunning views of Bangkok and the Chao Phraya river. Just be prepared that a glass of champagne will cost you around CHF 70.00 (… and it is not a Dom Pérignon).

My look: Cashmere and silk-blend cardigan by Miu Miu, crochet knit dress by Azzedine Alaïa, Pas platform sandals by De Siena, Veronika Isis studded shoulder bag by MCM, necklace by Carmen Cita Jones Jewelry and rose gold bangles by Sal y Limon.

After Sky Bar, I went to Mezzaluna restaurant, which is located at the 65th floor inside the dome. German chefs who happen to be identical twins, Thomas and Mathias Suhring, bring their years at the Michelin-starred restaurants of Europe to prepare masterfully the finest menus that are rivaled only by the breathtaking 180-degree city and river views before you.

Later, I went to Patpong, one of the world’s most famous red-light districts. As I am a very curious little human being, I wanted to see some of the iconic shows… and had a very entertaining night. To be continued…

LoL, Sandra

All photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, Movie photos in first collage: IMDb

If you have a weekend in Bangkok, squeeze in a day trip to Chatuchak Weekend Market and you will not be disappointed. This must-visit is one of the world’s largest weekend markets with over 15,000 booths selling goods from every part of Thailand. Everything is on sale here, shop ‘till you drop’, although not all at the best bargain rates.

The best way to get there is to hop on the Skytrain (BTS) to Mo Chit station, and follow the crowd until you see rows of canvas stalls selling clothes and other items. Almost everything can be found here, and most vendors actually come from local factories, like antique wood carving, clay handicrafts, wooden funitures, hand made decorated flowers, and much more.

My look: Tulle floral skirt and jacket (you need one for the Skytrain, the air conditioner feels like being in a freezer), both by Jean Paul Gaultier Femme, tank top by American Vintage, Vela nylon backpack (great piece to carry your personal belongings while travelling) by Prada, sunglasses by Marc Jacobs, studded bracelet by H&M and golden sandals by Zara.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

I spent New Year’s Eve at Ku Dé Ta, Bangkok‘s recently opened new 2-story hot spot on the 39th and 40th floor of Sathorn Square Building. First, I enjoyed an eight course meal at the beautiful Signature restaurant followed by some dancing at the night club on the same level. Being already known in the Asian club scene because of its sister venue in Singapore, this entertainment playground is an awesome place you don’t want to miss while being in Thailand!

My look: Studded leather shift dress and leather bra top, both by Saint Laurent, wild flower gunmetal-tone Swarovski crystal ear cuffs by Roberto Cavalli, strappy sandals by Gucci, camouflage fold over clutch by Valentino, rose diamond ring and Limelight Gala watch, both by Piaget.

Again Happy New Year 2014 and thanks for following Sandra’s Closet!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Happy New Year from Bangkok where I am at the moment. I hope that you started 2014 in a very fun way. Today is the first blank page of a 365 page book. Write a good one!

On the first day of the year, I am exploring the Thai city a little more with all its shrines and spirit houses. Something that you can see here on every corner. It is a truly amazing place to visit.

My look: Zebra print top by Saint Laurent, grey mid-rise skinny leg distressed jean by J Brand, studded leather loafers by Miu Miu, Donna hobo bag in vine green by Alexander Wang and floral sunglasses by Dolce & Gabbana.

The Erawan Shrine (officially named Thao Maha Brahma) in Bangkok is not old, but it is an interesting testament of the role of religion in modern Thai society. In 1955, the founder of the Erawan hotel was told by an astrologist, that the time for laying the foundation stone was not really right. It could only be corrected by building a shrine in the area. Following this advice, the Thao Maha Brahma was enshrined one year later.

The Erawan Shrine is located on the northwest corner of the Grand Hyatt Erawan property, near the Chit Lom stop on the skytrain. It consists of a golden statue, the Thao Mana Brahma, that sits beneath a glittering canopy, surrounded by offerings of flowers, incese and candles. The area is crowded with worshippers day and night and always wafting with incense smoke. A very magical place to visit and a great spot to wish for a Happy New Year.

Enjoy some of my impressions and of course stay tuned for more…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Recently, I was invited to La Réserve in Geneva, one of my favorite hotels in this area, to be pampered in their spa with the amazing products of Nescens. During my stay, I also had the honor to meet Professor Jacques Proust, a pioneer in the biology of aging and anti-aging medicine, who created fifteen years ago a center that is unique in Europe: “Centre de Prévention du Vieillissement” (Nescens Center for Preventive Medicine at the Clinique de Genolier).

Professor Proust’s passionate vision is pretty simple and easy to understand as every human being deeply aspires to enjoying the best of life for as long as possible and needless to say this is accomplished through the preservation of his or her appearance, physical fitness and health. He created Nescens to help every individual attain this legitimate desire.

Building on his years of fundamental research in the field of senescence, Professor Jacques Proust developed a deep interest in the therapeutic strategies susceptible of slowing down the effects of aging on the human body. As the largest and most exposed organ of the body, the skin naturally attracted his scientific interest. Based on his knowledge of the biological mechanisms underlying the aging process, Professor Jacques Proust devised the Nescens cosmeceutical range and its product formulas which are all scientifically validated.

I can absolutely recommend a visit to the Nescens Medical Spa that is located inside the 5-star hotel La Réserve Genève. Being one of the best ones I have seen so far, it boasts 2,000 sq.m dedicated to well-being and the management of your health capital, under the supervision of a team of physicians, nutritionists and osteopaths.

I was absolutely impressed by this high performance anti-aging treatment program that combines technical prowess and ultimate comfort for long-lasting effectiveness and tailor-made support. The first diagnostic step, based on an in-depth analysis with the help of  dedicated machine, shows you the different aspects to be considered concerning skin aging, from dark spots to wrinkles, from its moisture level to its firmness. You see the now status and how it would develop if you didn’t consider working on its appearance. This enables your therapist to create a customized preventive and corrective treatment.

The big difference to other treatments is that Nescens delivers cellular regeneration, step by step, from the stratum corneum to the deep structure of the cells. An improvement is visible in just 10 sessions: the skin looks revitalized and rejuvenated; wrinkles appear visibly smoothed and diminished; the complexion is resolutely evened out and clarified. It was very impressive to see what is already possible in one hour, not to be speak of the long-term if you continue working with their products.

The Nescens range offers a resolutely innovative anti-aging approach based on the understanding of molecular mechanisms involved in the maintenance and repair of skin structures. If you are interested, check out their product range by clicking here.

I am absolutely convinced and can highly recommend the Swiss brand.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, Product shot: © Nescens

From now until to February 28, 2014, the Mandarin Oriental Munich invites guests to indulge in little fashion fantasy of their own with the Mandarin Bar’s Jimmy Choo Fashion Afternoon Tea.

One of my favorite heels by Jimmy Choo for the new season is the neon elaphe pump.

The tea set takes inspiration from Jimmy Choo’s Cruise 2014 collection and highlights the popular clutch Charlize and the stiletto Sunday. The iconic hotel’s pastry chefs have specially created a range of dainty culinary treats, such aschocolate raspberry macaroons, Jimmy Choo handbags filled with chocolate, cucumber and cream cheese and grapefruit lemon and caviar shooters which are sure to win the hearts of every fashionista.

Whether as a gift for a best friend or as a treat after a shopping tour, this special Afternoon Tea at the Mandarin Bar is a must for those with a passion for fashion who want to enjoy the sweet temptations of life.

How gorgeous is Jimmy Choo’s Cruise 2014 Candy glitter-finished acrylic clutch?!

It is priced at €39.00 per person and €55.00 per person with a glass of champagne. All guests who book the tea will a special complimentary gift set: Jimmy Choo FLASH fragrant surprise. Available from Mondays to Fridays from 3.00pm to 6.00pm. Reservations can be made through: +49 (0)89 290 98 1929.

See you there! In case that you won’t make it to Munich, check out the Prêt-à-PorTea at the Berkeley Hotel in London.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Munich and Jimmy Choo

Marking their 15th year, Louis Vuitton unveils a new look for its City Guides, now covering 15 of the world’s most exciting cities. New cities, new features, new format —the Louis Vuitton City Guides get 
a complete make-over, emerging entirely refreshed and revitalized.

Since 1998, Louis Vuitton has been sharing its insatiable urban wanderlust through its City Guides. Eagerly awaited every year 
and heralded even by the world’s most sophisticated travelers, 
they truly capture the heart and spirit of each city explored, offering a hand-picked selection of exceptional places, delivered with flair and conviction.
A great Christmas gift for a beloved friend.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Louis Vuitton

Between my recent trips to China and Iceland, I flew for one day to Berlin to shoot MCM‘ s amazing new collaboration with Craig & Karl: EYES ON THE HORIZON. I love the German capital (and that is not only because I was born in this country), it’s one of the most vibrant, energetic cities in Europe. It’s the combination of two facts that can be felt everywhere: its present anything-goes-and-anything’s-possible vibe and its somber past.

Let me take you on a tour around Berlin. I had so much fun with my very talented photographer Christoph Schemel. See for yourselves:

First stop: THE KURFÜRSTENDAMM
Known locally as the Ku’damm, one of the most famous avenues in the city is home to many shops, such as the MCM boutique, hotels and restaurants. It’s often considered the Champs-Élysées of Berlin.

Second stop: DAS STUE
Located right next to the Tiergarten (central park of Berlin), the stylish design hotel Das Stue offers all the comforts of a quiet urban refuge within the heart of Berlin.

Third stop: CAFE AM NEUEN SEE
Christoph and I had a fabulous lunch at this fun place outside in the garden area with waiter service (there is also a self-service beer garden part directly by the lake) and planned the rest of our shoot. I had a piece of very yummy cheesecake (German cheesecake is the best) that went so fast I forgot to take a picture.

Fourth stop: SIEGESSÄULE
Berlin’s “Victory Column” is a famous monument and probably one of the best known symbols of the city. The “Golden Lizzie,” as it is known in local slang, was originally built around 1864 to celebrate Prussia’s victory in the German-Danish war.

Fifth stop: BRANDENBURGER TOR
Located at the heart of Berlin, the Brandenburg Gate is standing at the western end of the avenue Unter den Linden. It has been a symbol for both, the divided Cold War city and the country’s reunification. Today, it is one of the metropole’s most-visited landmarks.

Last stop: GRILL ROYAL
Before I flew back to Zurich, we went to Grill Royal for drinks. This see-and-be-seen restaurant is still, after opening a couple of years ago, the place-to-dine and very popular with the celebrity crowd. Below you see me before the entrance on Friedrichstrasse.

I hope that you have enjoyed my day in Berlin! Cannot wait to be back soon…

My look: Ivory blazer, cropped metallic leather motocross pants, both by Balmain, black top by Tom Ford, Audrey wayfarer sunglasses by Céline, shoes by Gucci, key ring, clutch and backpack, all from the MCM x Craig & Karl Eyes on the Horizon collection. Rose necklace and ring, both by Piaget.

LoL, Sandra

Photos by Christoph Schemel

After I had visited Iceland’s Golden Triangle in the beginning of last week, I went all around the island and drove over 2000 kilometers. I passed the most stunning sceneries and experienced breathtaking natural phenomenons, which have truly inspired me. Europe’s most sparsely populated country is so untouched with a population of about 320,000 of which two-thirds are living in the Reykjavík area. The creatures you see most are sheeps and the famous Icelandic horses. Let me show you my journey around the island:

Skaftafell has been one of the most rewarding spots for me. I hiked along the trail that leads to the glacial tongue Skaftafellsjökull where you can witness this stunning natural phenomenon.

Fjallsárlón is a glacier lake near Vatnajökull that has some floating icebergs, very similiar but smaller than Jökulsárlón, which was my next stop:

Personally speaking, the large glacial lake Jökulsárlón in southeast Iceland was my favourite sightseeing spot on my trip. One of the natural wonders of the country, it developed into a lake after the glacier started receding from the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.

The stunning scenery has been the setting for different Hollywood movies, such as Die Another Day, Tomb Raider and Batman Begins. I could have stayed there forever watching the icebergs floating towards the sea.

I passed some very cute fishing towns such as Höfn in the south-eastern part of the country.

Driving further east, I saw the mountain Búlandstindur that is truly breathtaking due to its pyramid-shaped stack of basaltic strata.

Dettifoss, located on the Diamond Circle, around Húsavík and Lake Mývatn in North Iceland, is an amazing waterfall. I even spotted a beautiful rainbow above its spray.

Watching whales has become one of the most common activities among foreign visitors to North Iceland. In fact, the cute town of Húsavík offers those excursions.

Being in the Lake Mývatn area, I decided spontaneously to hike to the top of the Hverfjall volcanic cone. Walking along the rim of the crater was pretty impressive.

My last stop before heading back to Reykjavík, was the waterfall of the gods, Goðafoss. The photo was taken around midnight. Isn’t it amazing how light it still was?!

Iceland has been an amazing experience, so different from what I had seen before in my life.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht