Sandra‘s Closet

Today, I would love to introduce you to my favorite sun protection this summer, easy to use and environmental-friendly.

A clear stick sunscreen that goes on smoothly without stickiness or a mess on your hands. Featuring SynchroShield™, its protective veil becomes even stronger when it detects heat, water or perspiration. This multi-protective stick provides a seamless defense against UVA/UVB rays and dryness anytime, anywhere. It works for the face and the body.

Containing the botanical ingredient complex Profense CL, it helps to prevent UV damage that causes wrinkles and uneven skin tone.

The anti-pollution formula helps to keep pollutants from adhering to the skin and contains an antioxidant to help to protect against damage that can be caused by them.

– This very water-resistant veil contributes to less elution when you enter the sea, compared to non-water resistant sunscreens.
– This bag is made from 72% certified biodegradable materials.
– Please repurpose this nomadic pouch before discarding it.

The SHISEIDO Clear Suncare Stick SPF50+ is available for €32.00.
TO SHOP IT ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post is NOT sponsored. However, I received the product to test it.

Tiffany & Co. announced today that powerhouse couple Beyoncé and JAY-Z will star in its latest campaign celebrating modern love. This is how LVMH is bringing its playbook to its largest-ever acquisition and the advantages and challenges of marketing brands rooted in the 19th century in today’s world.

Synonymous with the world’s greatest love stories since 1837, Tiffany’s debut of «ABOUT LOVE» marks the latest evolution of the luxury jeweler’s new creative direction. The campaign is the result of a close collaboration and a shared vision between both the Carters and Tiffany & Co.

«Beyoncé and JAY-Z are the epitome of the modern love story. As a brand that has always stood for love, strength and self-expression, we could not think of a more iconic couple that better represents Tiffany’s values. We are honored to have the Carters as a part of the Tiffany family.» —Alexandre Arnault, Executive Vice President of Product & Communications

As the first time the couple has appeared in a campaign together, «ABOUT LOVE» is an exploration of connection and vulnerability. The Carters’ love story is illuminated by the iconic Tiffany Diamond and set against the backdrop of Jean-Michel Basquiat’s Equals Pi (1982).*

As part of a private collection from its creation until now, this campaign marks the work of art’s first public appearance, propelling Tiffany’s long-standing tradition of working with New York creatives forward. Ushering in a new brand identity, this campaign embodies the beauty of love through time and all its diverse facets, forging a new vision of love today.

Worn in a campaign for the first time in history, the Tiffany Diamond weighs 128.54 carats and boasts an unprecedented 82 facets. Seen on Beyoncé throughout “ABOUT LOVE,” it is considered among the most important gemstone discoveries of the 19th century. Unearthed in 1877 in the Kimberley Mines of South Africa, founder Charles Lewis Tiffany purchased the rough diamond in 1878, solidifying the brand’s reputation as a diamond authority. House icons including designs from Jean Schlumberger and the Tiffany T collection are also featured throughout. Most notably, JAY-Z wears Jean Schlumberger’s legendary Bird on a Rock brooch, reconstructed as a pair of one-of-a-kind cuff links. Jean Schlumberger was best known for dressing high society’s elite in the 1960s and ’70s, so it is appropriate that his unmistakable designs live out his legacy on one of today’s greatest creative forces.

A film by acclaimed director Emmanuel Adjei has also been created and features a musical
performance of the classic song «Moon River.» Made famous in the 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffany’s, the iconic tune is reimagined with vocals by Beyoncé, captured by JAY-Z on a Super 8 camera. The couple selected the Orum House in Los Angeles to serve as the setting for the film, in which nostalgic flashbacks are interwoven with cinematic, dreamlike visuals. Basquiat’s Equals Pi appears once again as a common Tiffany Blue® thread throughout the narrative. The accompanying «ABOUT LOVE» print campaign was shot by Mason Poole and styled by June Ambrose and Marni Senofonte.

«ABOUT LOVE» reflects Tiffany’s continued support of underrepresented communities. As a part of
the house’s partnership with the Carters, Tiffany & Co. is proud to pledge a USD $2 million
commitment towards scholarship and internship programs for Historically Black Colleges and
Universities (HBCUs). Additional details on this initiative are forthcoming.
«ABOUT LOVE» launches globally in print on September 2. The accompanying film will launch on
Tiffany.com September 15 and will be amplified through global media activations. The campaign will further unfold later this year with additional films created by acclaimed director Dikayl Rimmasch and second unit director, Derek Milton.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Tiffany & Co. – @TIFFANYANDCO
*Partnership done in collaboration with Artestar, a global licensing agency and creative consultancy representing high-profile artists, photographers, designers and creatives.

«What makes this hotel so unique is its location, with the unobstructed view of the lake, its 19th century architecture and the spaciousness of its suites. The Woodward is very different from most contemporary hotels. I would sooner call it a prestigious residence than a boutique hotel.»
– Pierre-Yves Rochon

Oetker Collection is set to open The Woodward, the first all-suite hotel in the heart of Geneva, on 1 September 2021. The collection’s first Swiss masterpiece hotel will elevate the hospitality offering in the city, with exceptional interiors by leading designer, Pierre-Yves Rochon. Sitting directly on the shores of Lake Geneva with awe-inspiring views of majestic Mont Blanc, the post-Haussmann-style hotel dating back to 1901 is located on Quai Wilson, and has been transformed by world-renowned architect, Pierre-Yves Rochon.

Classic meets contemporary
Pierre-Yves Rochon is a leader in luxury interior design, whose portfolio includes iconic hotels such as The Savoy Hotel in London, and Domaine Les Crayères in Reims. The Woodward is the perfect showcase of Rochon’s expertise, offering a sense of modernity that accentuates the Belle Époque architecture of the listed 19th century building in Geneva. Simultaneously classic and contemporary; discreet and vibrant; inspired by the world and yet deeply rooted in Geneva’s history, The Woodward caters as much to an international clientele as it does to residents of the city.

Pierre-Yves Rochon has sought to combine five-star hotel standards with the warmth of a private residence with The Woodward‘s interior design, incorporating stylish furniture, palatial fabrics, and exquisite craftsmanship. The tone is set at the entrance, with an immense wrought iron door that is entirely covered by hand-laid gold leaf. Just a few steps away from the reception desk is the main lounge, where Rochon’s plush velvet sofas interplay with a large, hand-knotted Nepalese rug and lure guests through. The reception areas have been designed like a private mansion, ensuring guests feel the atmosphere of true, unpretentious residential luxury. The lobby walls, which are dressed in Macassar ebony, give the room a feeling of deep warmth that is enhanced by a magnificent Maison Delisle chandelier and a fresco depicting a stormy sky. The 1930s-style furniture contrasts with other elegant modern touches such as a bronze table by Hervé Van der Straeten and Ralph Lauren armchairs.

An opulent yet cosy atmosphere
Spanning five floors, the hotel’s 26 spacious suites have been designed to the highest specification. While each is different, they all share a harmonious and soothing beige colour palette, contrasted by touches of blue. The colours brighten and deepen as the sunlight’s reflection on Lake Geneva shifts throughout the day. Every detail has been carefully considered to optimise space and streamline movement throughout the suites, and the sophisticated décor is made up of truly unique elements from straw marquetry sliding doors and wardrobes, to handmade wallpaper, Lalique door handles, majestic marble fireplaces and beautiful bookcases.

The furniture has been cleverly selected, blending the classicism of a Taillardat chest of drawers with the clean lines of Christian Liaigre tables and armchairs. In the living rooms of the suites, guests can simply open the door of a lacquered cabinet, decorated with hand-painted spring flowers and mother-of-pearl inlay, to discover a dazzling ‘Experience Bar’ crafted by Atelier Anne Midavaine in five unique colour schemes. Lighting has been designed by Japanese firm, Akari-Lisa Ishii, to enhance the artwork chosen for each suite and throughout the rest of the hotel. The stairwell is accentuated by black and white photographs and the bar is home to an abstract painting by Aigana Gali. In the lobby, gold leaf paintings by Nantes-based artist, Nancy Gaiss delicately echo the opulent interior design.

L’Atelier Robuchon

Two restaurants, two distinct designs
The Woodward offers two exquisite culinary experiences, L’Atelier Robuchon and Le Jardinier, both have been meticulously designed to offer entirely distinct atmospheres. Le Jardinier is located underneath two verandas, bathing the restaurant in an abundance of natural light at all times of the day. The space has been decorated in summery hues to reflect its fresh, plant-rich cuisine. From the seat cushions to the tapestries, floral motifs evoke the verdant atmosphere of a winter garden.

Le Jardinier

Through Le Jardinier’s windows, guests can admire The Woodward’s magnificent façade, which is now listed in the historic register and has been completely restored. Just one floor down, L’Atelier Robuchon has taken up residence under the masterful direction of Executive Chef Olivier Jean. Here, subdued lighting and a warm colour palette create an atmosphere resembling that of a private club, oriented around a 36-seat chef’s counter. The counter showcases a custom-made artwork by Pierre-Yves Rochon’s studio depicting several different spices – a nod to the restaurant’s Asian influences.

In addition to its world-class dining experiences, the hotel will also be home to two bars and a tearoom, as well as a private digestif and cigar lounge.

A spa of wellbeing
In keeping with Oetker Collection’s commitment to wellbeing, The Woodward will also be home to Club Woodward featuring a 1,200m2 Guerlain Spa and a 21-metre indoor swimming pool – the longest in Geneva.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Oetker Collection

Versace‘s iconic «Trésor de la Mer» motif celebrates the vibrancy of nature. Originally presented by  Gianni Versace for S/S 1992, the print shows a beautiful array of starfish, coral, and seashells. For S/S 2021, Donatella Versace seeked inspiration from her late brother’s breathtaking collection and created looks for the modern little mermaid. Here, you see me wearing it on my holidays in Santorini, Greece.

My look: Trésor de La Mer cropped embellished printed cotton-jersey T-shirt, Trésor de la Mer-print scoop-neck swimsuit, starfish-print cap, and white Rodeo pop-print shoulder bag, all by Versace, Double G matelassé wedge espadrilles, and vintage elastic belt with star buckle, both by Gucci, Power butterfly sunglasses by Balenciaga, and distressed denim shorts by Saint Laurent.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Anouk / Sandra Bauknecht, NET-A-PORTER

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!

Hello from Santorini where I am on holidays with my daughter right now. The Greek island is one of the most photogenic places you can imagine. The view of the contrasting white houses built on the dark lava cliffs surrounded by the blue sky and deep blue sea is absolutely breathtaking. It has been almost 25 years I was here the last time. Today, the city of Oia is buzzing and has become an absolute hot spot. We are staying at the beautiful Mystique Hotel Santorini, where we took these photos before having dinner at the Lure restaurant, located on top of the hotel.

My look: Baroque-print one-shoulder dress, white Rodeo pop-print shoulder bag, and black leather double platform sandals, all by Versace, and single earring by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Anouk / Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

The Dolce & Gabbana Women‘s sunglasses collection adds effortless elegance, everlasting appeal and authentic glamour to your look. One pair has really caught my eyes: the Diva Sunglasses. I love the elegant leopard detail that evokes the charm and sensuality of the ’50s.
Available for CHF 1389.00.

TO SHOP THE DIVA SUNGLASSES, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Dolce & Gabbana
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

Created in 1978 by Henri d’Origny, the Arceau watch lends itself to the expression of Hermès skills. Produced in a numbered limited edition of 24, the white gold and diamond Arceau The Three Graces reinterprets the theme of the eponymous silk scarf designed by British artist Alice Shirley in 2020.

Crafted in wood marquetry and miniature painting on aventurine, the elegant giraffe adorning the dial of Arceau The Three Graces was originally inspired by a trip to South Africa, when Alice Shirley had the privilege of spotting three giraffes partially concealed by an acacia tree. The delicacy and poetry of this gigantic creature, with its ample and graceful movements, is highlighted by the skilled touch of Hermès artisans, who have reproduced its natural harmony.

To transpose the animal’s profile, long neck and mottled coat to the scale of a dial, the marquetry specialist begins by transferring and downscaling the design, then rigorously selecting the type, grain and colour of the wood used to reproduce it. In this case that meant a combination of naturally dark, light, stained or bleached wood – American walnut and maple, European sycamore and tulip tree – chosen for their nuances and textures similar to those of the original design. The artisan cuts out the multitude of tiny elements – 195 pieces in all – forming the portrait that is then assembled like a puzzle, before gluing, sanding and applying a protective varnish.

This marquetry decoration comes to life in the heart of a work that also requires meticulous care and a flair for colours. On a scintillating aventurine base, the painter traces the outlines of the motif before placing the piece in the kiln to fix the colours in place. He then forms the various volumes of the background vegetation using successive layers of micro-painting applied with a brush and heat-dried in a kiln. He proceeds in the same way for the flat areas of colours, before finalizing his composition with small precise touches. The challenge of such an endeavour lies in miniaturising a rich palette of nuances, contrasts and subtle details. Several weeks of rigorous discipline, patience and dexterity are required to produce this dial, which is by nature unique.

Representing a combination of artistic crafts and watchmaking, the Arceau The Three Graces watch is powered by the Hermès H1912 mechanical self-winding movement driving hours and minutes hands. The deep hues of the dial, framed by a precious white gold case set with 82 diamonds, are highlighted by a blue sapphire alligator strap made in the Hermès Horloger workshops.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hermès

The idea behind CARTIER Clash [Un]Limited was to create a collection that was limitless in terms of creativity, innovation and style; which resulted in limited-edition jewellery pieces including the unique and spectacular Baignoire mitten watch – a watch inserted into a gold and diamond mitten that dares to be extravagant and unexpected.

The Clash [Un]Limited mitten watch has a second-skin effect that covers three quarters of the hand, achieved using 3D printing. This unique piece was developed at the innovation unit of the Maison des Métiers d’Art in collaboration with a master glove-maker who provided the initial design.

Lily Collins sporting the Clash [Un]Limited mitten watch.

Remarkably supple, it is made up of a rose gold mesh set with a constellation of diamonds surrounding a Baignoire Allongée watch with a diamond-paved dial hemmed with studs. It constituted a major challenge for CARTIER’s artisans who meticulously assembled thousands of tiny gold particles, welded together thanks to the extreme precision of lasers and small pliers inspired by microsurgery. It also called for a creative dialogue between all the different crafts and skills, starting with the watchmakers who were faced with the challenge of concealing the watch’s winding crown under the dial, followed by the jewellers who set, on an infinitely small scale, nearly 1600 diamonds. The CARTIER mitten watch took two years to develop and almost 227 hours of work to complete and is a single piece.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Cartier
DISCLOSURE: This post is not sponsored.

Last Tuesday, I enjoyed a night at the museum with Veuve Cliquot for the unique closing dinner of the retrospective of exceptional artist Yayoi Kusama at Gropius Bau in Berlin. On display in the entrance hall was the champagne house’s new, exciting collaboration with the Japanese artist who dressed the La Grande Dame 2012 Limited Edition in her signature patterns, the polka dots. Also on display was Kusama’s artwork «My Heart that Blooms in the Darkness of the Night», a vibrant floral sculpture.

Among the guests from art and culture were German A-listers Iris Berben, Lea van Acken, Andreas Mühe, Christian and Karen Boros, William Fan, Franz Dinda, Hardy Krüger jr, Esther Perbandt, Johann König and many more.

German actress Iris Berben exploring the early years of the Kusama exhibition.

The evening started with a private guided tour through the amazing retrospective of Yayoi Kusama (92). From an upper class Japanese family that owned a seed nursery business, Yayoi Kusama grew up in a conservative environment. When she left school, and against her mother’s wishes, Yayoi decided to leave Japan, which she considered too small a country, and her family, where art as a career was not appreciated. Kusama left for the US, first Seattle, before settling in New York.

As a painter, sculptor, author, and performance artist, but also a filmmaker, writer, and a female artist of Asian origin in a predominantly male, Western art world, her audacity knew no bounds, as her controversial «happenings» showed. She soon gained recognition and her tenacity paid off: from the 1960s onwards she was one of the few female artists to make a living from her work.

Since her early years, the artist has experienced obsessions and hallucinations; she uses art as a sort of antidote for healing, a kind of self-medication. The canvases she covers with nets and dots have a dual effect; she demonstrates a mastery of repetition that at the same time reveals its infinite character; its overflow is liberating. Interesting to know is that Kusama was the first person in the 20th century to use this method of harnessing an individual’s potential for artistic expression and creativity for openly psychotherapeutic purposes. Today this has acquired the name «art therapy».

As a young artist, Kusama gained inspiration from plants and flowers, which she saw as a symbol of life, birth and regeneration. In later years, they became part of her figurative languages as positive symbols conveying vital energy and regeneration.

The flower is what led her to paint dots at the start of her career – the famous polka dots, which have become her signature. At her happenings in the late 1960s she covered her own and the participants’ bodies in these dots.

«Polka dots are a life, and the moon, the sun, and the stars are one of hundred of millions of polka dots. This is my grand philosophy. With peace from polka dots, I would like to deeply launch my longing for eternal love. Polka dots shall continue to proliferate and appeal to the people with my message.» – Yayoi Kusama

This message of hope and optimism has made her a much-loved figure who is avidly followed by a wide public. She was one of TIME magazine‘s 100 most influential people in the world in 2016 and is now a style icon. She has collaborated with countless brands; from couture (remember the fantastic collaboration with Louis Vuitton in 2012) to streetwear, Kusama’s name fascinates and inspires.

In honor of Madame Cliquot, Veuve Cliquot has commissioned Yayoi Kusama to create a joyful, original work celebrating the new vintage, La Grande Dame 2012. Two bold destinies, two innovative minds, two avantgardists who influenced their times.

With Petra Nagel, Managing Director Moët Hennessy Deutschland (LVMH)

Celebrating this magic encounter, we were invited outside after the tour to enjoy a champagne reception, followed by a wonderful vegetarian/vegan dinner with live performance accompanied by three amazing vintage champagnes; Veuve Cliquot La Grand Dame 2012, La Grand Dame Rosé 2006 and La Grand Dame 2008 Magnum.

A beautiful evening – thank you Veuve Cliquot for inviting me to Berlin, for these unforgettable memories and a message of hope and optimism.

I fully enjoyed the dinner thanks also to the lovely company of Karen Boros, Lea Van Acken and Hendrikje Kopp.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Franziska Krug/Getty Images for Veuve Clicquot, Agentur EVENTPRESS for Veuve Cliquot and © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post is sponsored, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.
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