Sandra‘s Closet

Hotels have long been known for their signature scents, but now, Mandarin Oriental is going a step further by creating their own new signature color: Celadon Green, developed exclusively with the Pantone Colour Institute. Inspired by traditional Asian ceramics, the shade embodies calm, refinement, and cultural heritage—yet Mandarin Oriental has transformed it into something contemporary and experiential.

The color is not just part of the design language; it’s woven into every detail of the brand. Guests encounter Celadon Green in delicate pastries at The Mandarin Cake Shop, in mooncakes presented in elegant green boxes, and even in cocktails that reinterpret the hue with matcha and fresh herbal notes.

Fashion and travel collaborations extend the story further. Limited-edition Sunspel T-shirts at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London and Globe-Trotter luggage collections allow travelers to carry a piece of Mandarin Oriental’s identity beyond the hotel walls. At the spa, soothing tones of Celadon Green complement treatments designed to relax body and mind, turning color psychology into an integral part of the experience.

To celebrate the launch, Mandarin Oriental has also taken Celadon Green global with playful Pantone «chip» installations, creating stylish photo moments from London to Bangkok.

More than just a shade, Celadon Green is Mandarin Oriental’s way of turning design into lifestyle, luxury you can see, taste, wear, and feel.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Mandarin Oriental
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At London Heathrow’s Terminal 2, right at the heart of the terminal in front of the Louis Vuitton store, sits a striking pavilion: the Louis Vuitton Café. If you find yourself passing through, I highly recommend skipping the lounge and stopping by for a coffee instead, taking a few photos, and soaking in the atmosphere of this stylish oasis. Designed by Mark Fornes / THEVERYMANY, the futuristic, open structure draws the eye with its fluid, honeycomb-like forms and feels more like an art installation than part of an airport.

Inside, the café offers a calm, elegant space where you can pause and watch the flow of travelers. The menu, created by French chef Cyril Lignac, features delicate pastries alongside coffee. I chose a cappuccino, served with perfect foam and a subtle LV motif on top – but you’ll also find madeleines and signature desserts worth trying.

A beautiful spot for a quiet break, surrounded by design and craft, before boarding your flight.

Le Café Cyril Lignac at Louis Vuitton,
Heathrow Airport, Terminal 2,
Hounslow, United Kingdom

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / First Collage: Courtesy of Louis Vuitton
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Welcome the Bobbi Brown Mini Bar, an exclusively curated selection of must-have beauty products – thoughtfully sized to fit perfectly into your busy travel days. You’ll find everything you need for effortless holiday glam: from the iconic Vitamin Enriched Face Base and the Skin Full Cover Conceealer to a luminous highlighter, and of course the famous Soothing Cleansing Oil to remove make-up after a long day.

All your favorites in mini format. Try them or take them them with you wherever you go. These minis bring a touch of ease and luxury to your travel adventures.

TO SHOP THE BOBBI BROWN MINI BAR, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Every year, the Claridge’s Hotel in London invites a designer to collaborate on the decoration of their iconic Christmas tree. Last year, it was Louis Vuitton, this year it is no other than Sir Paul Smith, who revealed a traditional 20ft Christmas tree sitting in a Signature Striped barrel and decorated with Paul Smith colourful baubles, ribbon and over 100 bespoke birdhouses.

Sir Paul has collaborated with two friends of the house on the decorations, British artist Nik Ramage, who has made a series of mechanical birdhouses, all with a playful Paul Smith twist, with roofs decorated in playing cards, postage stamps and dice. In Paul’s office, a miniature cable cart hovers overhead and Ramage took inspiration from this and engineered a flying bird to frame Claridge’s reception. Design studio Studiomama, have created a series of their whimsical ‘Off Cut Creatures’ to sit around the base of the tree.

Adding to the festive design, Paul Smith’s holiday Merrymaker fragrance will scent the lobby, and a chorus of birdsong is projected from the tree throughout the day to welcome guests into the lobby of the hotel. Sir Paul has even transformed the hotel lobby into his living room, with a geometric Paul Smith stripe Rug Company Rug, reupholstered Maharam by Paul Smith fabric pieces surround the fireplace to offer guests a warming retreat during the winter months.

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without an element of festive fun and adding to the playfulness, Sir Paul has revealed ‘Paul’s Pick n Mix’ trolley, which will be available for guests to enjoy.

«My wife Pauline and I have been staying and dining at Claridge’s for many years. We have spent so many special moments like Christmas and New Year at the hotel with our grandchildren and so it is often a family affair. It’s a great honour to be asked to create this year’s Christmas tree and it’s something I hope people will enjoy and find fascinating and fun. When designing this year’s tree, I automatically thought of a bird house, friendly and optimistic, a symbol of home which reflects the welcoming spirit of Claridge’s.»

Sir Paul Smith

I truly miss spending my time in London before Christmas, but due to my MY STYLE ROCKS project, I couldn’t find the time this year.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Claridge’s
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Exciting news for the South of France, Europe’s most luxury hotel brand, the Oetker Collection, is coming to St. Tropez. Optimally nestled between the iconic town and the beautiful beaches of Pampelonne in Ramatuelle (both an easy 5 mins drive away), the hotel will be reconstructed at the former site of Le Mas Bellevue St Tropez. Featuring 53 rooms and suites, each with a private terrace or patio, the site will be home to an oversized infinity swimming pool, an expansive wellness facility, an exciting bar and restaurant and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the sea.

Designed by architects Triptyque and with interiors by Gilles & Boissier, the hotel will be comprised of 11 interconnected houses conceived as a secluded hillside hamlet, all fully immersed in nature within beautiful landscaped gardens. Guests can look forward to an authentic Provencal experience full of local flavours and sights in an ambiance that exudes glamour and authentic elegance, with both the premises and the gardens showcasing natural materials, inclusive of aged tiles, local stones, climbing vegetation and wooden pergolas.

«The St Tropez hotel contains all the ingredients of a true masterpiece, and we look forward to creating an unparalleled haven that embraces both the laid-back authenticity and sophistication of the region.» says Timo Gruenert, CEO of Oetker Collection.

Personally speaking, I am super excited for this new jewel in the South of France as St. Tropez has always been one of my favorite destinations in the world. The opening is foreseen for 2027.

I mean I just love everything that is holy, Saint Laurent, Sankt Moritz and Saint Tropez … wouldn’t you agree?

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Oetker Collection, © Sandra Bauknecht / Michael HJ Lopez Photographie
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Welcome to the Mauritian Côte d’Azur and don’t let its name fool you, Cap Malheureux («Unlucky Cap») is a true paradise! Although its name sounds like a curse, this small fishing village located between Grand Baie and Anse la Raie, has a peaceful, pleasant coastline and is far from mass tourism. A must-see is the Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice Church also known as the Red Roof Church.

My look: Halliday lace-trimmed floral-print linen maxi dress by Zimmermann, Palm cutout embossed textured-leather bucket bag by Staud, Rockstud Torchon 105 leather espadrille wedge sandals by Valentino, green logo sunglasses by Miu Miu, and silver-tone, crystal and faux pearl necklace by Alessandra Rich.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Created for and inspired by travel, Flight Mode returns as a women’s capsule that elevates lifestyle dressing from Louis Vuitton. Comprising ready-to-wear, leather goods, shoes and accessories, the collection presents a wardrobe for the journey as well as the destination. From the functionality of a bag to the feeling of a fabric, Flight Mode continues to build a complete silhouette adapted to contemporary voyage.

The Neverfull Inside Out offers a useful spin on the beloved Louis Vuitton bag. Fully reversible, it can be flipped so that the original inside becomes the outside. A GM size Neverfull Inside Out comes patterned with Flight Mode travel stamps; the MM size is available with three lining colour options; and for both the MM and BB sizes, smooth calf leather is offered in chic and neutral shades. The classic Neverfull will also come in vivid Epi leather – each one endlessly versatile for everyday use, at home or away.

Other iconic bags are revisited in animations that nod to the season, whether the Noé cinched bucket style or the iconic Twist in Fauve, a reddish-brown Epi leather. The Speedy in a supple Monogram canvas makes a statement as three pre-embellished styles: a darker version with black calf trim and a gothic silver chain; a classic option with a golden chain, colourful lining, precious ostrich leather trim and thematic charms; and a craft-focused version with a chain of natural pearls and a special address tag. Additionally, several key shapes showcase the Mahina Monogram as a greyish Brume base with a gradient blue and white effect reminiscent of the changing skies.

Transported to a modernist house within a forested setting, the ready-to-wear shifts between outdoor and indoor. Like the Neverfull Inside Out, wrap coats are reversible and offer a soft yet sophisticated look in wool and silk. For a subtle signature touch, a variety of pieces recall the tonal Mahina pattern, while an all-over print of travel stamps introduces a lively touch of colour to padded vests, fluid silk skirts and light shell pieces. Casual silhouettes are loose yet put-together and include a Monogram grey denim ensemble; velvet jersey sets with colour-block detailing; and tech jersey coordinated looks that are at once sporty and feminine. As layering is integral to travel, the Flight Mode collection also encompasses embossed Monogram, mohair and cashmere knits and sumptuous shearling that can be styled for comfort and relaxed elegance.

Flight Mode footwear spans low impact activity to higher intensity. Sneakers are accented with eye-catching details. The LV Rush is a technical sneaker with a wavy graphic around the upper and elastic laces for an easy fit. Exuding ‘80s cool, the LV Stadium is a mid-top, bi-colour leather style juxtaposing green, rose or blue and white debossed with the mini Monogram. Louis Vuitton Paris curves around the lightweight sole.

Accessories that assure warmth play with the Maison’s codes. And as the weather transitions from fall to winter, a signature Corduroy cap, a LV Fluffy bucket hat, or even sporty socks add up to a total look.

Always channelling the spirit of voyage, Louis Vuitton envisions Flight Mode as a multi-faceted approach to dressing that is dedicated to travel and the ways this is integrated with everyday life.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton
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All shades of green … Mauritius is called the green island in the Indian Ocean, thanks to the island’s rich vegetation, tropical forests, and the clear, emerald waters surrounding its coastline.

For the photos. I went to a scenic sightseeing spot up the hill of the village of Chamarel, which is one of the most visited spots on the island, blending in the vibrant, lush shades of green with my outfit.

My look: Cropped off-the-shoulder embellished stretch-jersey top, and matching embellished gathered stretch-jersey maxi skirt, both by Rabanne, Devotion mini bag in silver by Dolce & Gabbana, Crawford knotted silver and green leather platform sandals with crystals by Gucci, 36mm Oyster Perpetual Celebration by Rolex, and green logo sunglasses by Miu Miu.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Matching the temple in Mauritius … while driving around the Grand Baie area in the North, I passed the Tamil Surya Oudaya Sangam Temple, that is one of the oldest Tamil temples on the island. The temple is a riot of colours that can be visible even from a considerable distance. I had to stop and take pictures as my new pareo pants couldn’t gave been a better match.

Later, I enjoyed my time at the Constance Prince Maurice and indulged in their signature rum cocktail «Maurice de Nassau» at the hotel bar next to the white sand beach and tropical surroundings. The drink has an interesting combination of aged rum, coconut liquor, curry leaf, passion fruit puree, roasted pineapple juice and dried chili.

My look: Mila ruffled bikini by Maygel Coronel, red and white striped pareo pants by Loretta Caponi, wedge espadrilles by Castañer, wallet on chain by CHANEL, oval-frame gold-tone and tortoiseshell acetate sunglasses by Celine, and silver-tone, crystal and faux pearl necklace by Alessandra Rich.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht 
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Greetings from Johannesburg, where I spent some amazing days. South Africa’s largest city and financial hub presents a complex tapestry of contrasts. It’s known for its stark disparities, where opulent neighborhoods and extreme wealth coexist alongside significant poverty and crime.

Outside of my hotel in Melrose Arch.

Johannesburg has a reputation for high crime rates, particularly in certain areas. As a result, security measures are pronounced such as armoured cars and security services. My hotel was in Melrose Arch, which is renowned for its world-class safety due to fences and security gates. Many homes in affluent areas are surrounded by high fences, electric gates, and security cameras. Private security firms patrol these neighborhoods regularly.

Despite the security concerns, Johannesburg is also a city of considerable affluence: It’s not uncommon to see high-end cars like Rolls-Royces, Ferraris, and Bentleys on the streets, especially in wealthy suburbs like Sandton and Houghton. The city also boasts numerous luxury shopping malls, upscale restaurants, and exclusive boutiques, catering to the affluent population.

Nelson Mandela Square is linked to Sandton City shopping center and is one of the most fashionable destinations in Johannesburg.

This juxtaposition of wealth and security highlights the broader socio-economic inequalities. Many residents live in townships and informal settlements, where poverty is rampant, and access to basic services can be limited. However, Johannesburg remains a land of opportunity for many, attracting people from across Africa seeking better economic prospects, which contributes to its diverse and dynamic character.

Everything can be found in Sandton City, from high end designer brands, to weapons and meat.

Johannesburg’s history, shaped by the gold rush and apartheid, continues to influence its current dynamics. The city is also a cultural hub, with a vibrant art scene, numerous museums, and a rich history reflected in landmarks like the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill. There are ongoing efforts to revitalize parts of the city, like the Maboneng Precinct, which aim to create safer, more inclusive urban spaces.

Armed convoy for our way to the airport with a bodyguard in our car and another car following us. You get quickly used to these security measures.

In summary, Johannesburg’s contradictions are a microcosm of broader issues facing South Africa, where wealth and poverty, security and danger, coexist in a dynamic and complex urban landscape.

Fantastic meat at the Butcher Shop and Grill.

In case you are visiting Johannesburg, I recommend eating some of the local specialities. Red wine and meat in South Africa are excellent and prices are really low for us Europeans and it might be worth it bringing some steaks home.

Vibrant and trendy place to dine is Marble restaurant in Johannesburg that carries an amazing selection of South African wines.

As a starter I love Kudu, which is similar to venison, with a slight gamey, yet meat-like flavor. It is a very dry and lean.

If you are a meat lover, you will have love South Africa. I honestly had the best steaks here.

Something you should not miss in South Africa. Definitely a classic to end a meal is having a Dom Pedro, which is something halfway between a dessert and a cocktail, like a grown-up version of a milkshake. The blended ice cream laced with alcohol is rich and creamy but lighter than a traditional dessert. It is totally my thing!

I had a great time in Johannesburg and can absolutely recommend a trip here. It is very close to the capital Pretoria and you can also go easily on a safari from the city. Visit for example Pilanesberg Game Reserve on a full-day safari, where over 7000 animals roam freely.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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