Sandra‘s Closet

Personally speaking, when it comes to skincare, my eyes are the most challenging area to deal with as it consists of the most delicate skin on the face. Unfortunately, they show signs of aging first with the development of fine lines and wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness, loss of firmness, dryness, and uneven texture. Even if these signs are not apparent yet, most of the damage may already be done under the surface of the skin. So you might thank me for today’s post in a few years, however, with a little care, and the right approach, your eyes can remain radiant and vibrant.

There is a lot we can do to minimize the aging effects in the eye area. Environmental stressors and lifestyle play a huge part in the aging process, accelerating the rate of visible damage. Slowing down, even it is just for a few minutes during the day, play an important role. Furthermore, the use of a scientifically formulated eye cream can slow the aging process in the eye area as it will hydrate, brighten, firm, decrease puffiness, and smooth the skin’s texture. It is never too late (or too early) to care for this delicate area.

With triple the Concentrated Miracle Broth™, the newly formulated LA MER Eye Concentrate helps transform the delicate eye area with essential energy and healing hydration to reduce the look of dark circles, lines and wrinkles in 3 weeks. Lime Tea Concentrate, the antioxidant powerhouse, helps prevent future damage before it begins. The result? An enlightened new eye area — one that looks smoother, brighter and healthier than before.

At least twice daily, dab a small amount onto applicator and gently massage onto eye area for increased micro-circulation. My favorite personal hack? First, stow La Mer’s eye treatment applicator in the fridge for 3 to 5 minutes for a refreshing revamp of your go-to eye regimen. Secondly, carry the applicator and the Eye Concentrate with you, especially when you are travelling or busy with work. This fast-absorbing treatment works also perfectly over your make-up.

Gently sweep it over the eye area with the applicator for pure relaxation. It also helps me to concentrate during the day as rolling it under the eye area has almost a meditative sensation for me. This much needed hydration will boost your energy level while encouraging natural drainage.

Available now for CHF 270.00 (15ml).
Enjoy Complimentary Standard Shipping and two samples at checkout with every order. CLICK HERE TO SHOP THE LA MER EYE CONCENTRATE ONLINE.

Don’t forget – the eyes are the window to the soul, so better make them look your best.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © David Biedert Photography
Location: Park Hyatt Zurich
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Happy Thursday everyone! Great news MATCHESFASHION launched a mid-season sale
with up to 30% off select women’s and men’s products. Use the code MID30 at checkout!
This sale will run through 27th of April, 2020.

Below are some of my favorite pieces for women and men that will last for many seasons to come. Don’t miss this opportunity and gentlemen, to see your must-haves, scroll down please to the end of this post.

LoL, Sandra

MY FAVORITE MID-SEASON SALE PIECES FOR WOMEN:

Elsa crystal chain-strap leather sandals by Alexandre Vauthier
Chain embellishments around the ankle are all the rage this summer season.

Soleil nubuck and raffia bag by Jacquemus
A stylish straw bag at the beach will make heads turn.

Stone-embellished heart and arrow brooch by Etro
Brooches are the must-have accessory for the S/S 2020 season!

Peak-lapel grain-de-poudre jacket by Peter Pilotto
Nothing beats a classy summer blazer during a cool summer breeze.

Off-the-shoulder ruffled silk-chiffon dress by Dundas
Browse the clothing section to find your ultimate airy summer dream dress.

Xike belted leather shorts by Isabel Marant
A pair of colorful leather shorts is a great addition to your wardrobe as you can wear it all year long.

MY FAVORITE MID-SEASON SALE PIECES FOR MEN:

Technical-mesh bomber jacket by Giorgio Armani
You cannot go wrong with this timeless piece.

Artist stripe-cuff striped cotton shirt by Paul Smith
A classy striped designer shirt on sale. You can thank me later!

Santos de Cartier aviator metal sunglasses by Cartier
This is what I would call a pair of statement sunglasses.

Photo: © Sandra Bauknecht – Stills: Courtesy of the Brands
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Yesterday I received the breaking news: Rolex, Patek Philippe, Chanel, Chopard and Tudor leave Baselworld to create a new watch trade show in Geneva with the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH). The show will be held early April 2021 at Palexpo, at the same time as Watches & Wonders (The FHH is the group that organizes what, until this year, has been known as Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH).) This departure follows a number of unilateral decisions made without consultation by Baselworld management, including the postponement of the watch show until January 2021, as well as its inability to meet the brands’ needs and expectations.

The announcement comes as no surprise – as open letters about the fair’s plans and its organizer’s handling of refunds, among other things, have been paramount this past week. Apparently, Baselworld management also opted to reschedule Baselworld 2020 for January 2021 without asking the exhibitors. The dates conflict with a host of other exhibitions around the world in jewelry and watches.

The new show, which will be linked to Watches & Wonders, organized by the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, is to take place at Palexpo. The aim is to offer partner brands the best possible professional platform, applying a shared vision to successfully meet future challenges in the watchmaking industry. It will also give crucial prominence to the sector’s expertise and innovations, both in Switzerland and internationally. Other brands may also be added, according to terms that have not yet been defined. This new event will be geared predominantly towards retailers, the press and VIP customers.

Jean-Frédéric Dufour

Jean-Frédéric Dufour, Chief Executive Officer, Rolex SA, and Board Member, Montres Tudor SA, said: «We have taken part in Baselworld since 1939. Unfortunately, given the way the event has evolved and the recent decisions made by MCH Group, and in spite of the great attachment we had to this watch show, we have decided to withdraw. Following discussions initiated by Rolex, it seemed only natural to create a new event with partners that share our vision and our endless, unwavering support for the Swiss watchmaking sector. This will allow us to present our new watches in line with our needs and expectations, to join forces and better defend the interests of the industry.»

Thierry Stern

Thierry Stern, President, Patek Philippe said: «The decision to leave Baselworld was not an easy one to take for me, being the fourth generation of the Stern family to participate to this traditional yearly event. But life evolves constantly, things change and people change as well, whether it is at the level of those responsible for the watch fair organization, the brands or the clients. We constantly have to adapt ourselves, question what we do, since what was right yesterday may not necessarily be valid today! Today Patek Philippe is not in line with Baselworld’s vision anymore, there have been too many discussions and unsolved problems, trust is no longer present. We need to answer the legitimate needs of our retailers, the clients and the press from around the world. They have to be able to discover the new models from Swiss watchmakers each year, at one time, in one place, and this in the most professional manner possible. That is why, following several discussions with Rolex and in agreement with other participating brands, we have decided to create, all together, a unique event in Geneva, representative of our savoir-faire.»

Frédéric Grangié

Frédéric Grangié, President of CHANEL Watches & Fine Jewellery said: «Like its partners, CHANEL shares the same independence and the same desire to protect and promote the values, know-how, utmost quality and precision of Swiss Watchmaking. This initiative marks a key milestone in the history of CHANEL Watchmaking and is part of a long-term strategy, which began with the launch of this activity in 1987. This exhibition will allow us to present all of our new creations in an environment that meets our high-quality standards.»

Karl-Friedrich Scheufele

Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Co-President Chopard et Cie SA said: «Chopard first exhibited at the Basel fair in 1964 with a stand of some 25 square metres. After careful consideration, our family decided to support the Rolex initiative and retire from Baselworld – a painful decision. The creation of this new watch show in Geneva, in parallel to Watches & Wonders, will allow us to better serve our watchmaking partners and our customers. Through the alliance, these grandes maisons will also be able to collaborate in promoting the values and best interests of Swiss watchmaking.»

Jérôme Lambert

Jérôme Lambert, on behalf of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie Council said: «The Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie is delighted to welcome a new salon which will strengthen the historical Watches & Wonders event in Geneva next year in early April.»

Further information will be published at a later date, in particular concerning the name of the new watch fair and its organization.

I fear this will be the end, pure and simple, of Baselworld…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands and © Sandra Bauknecht

Candy colors I love – we look cute together. Madame de Pompadour and Marie Antoinette would surely agree with me as they are best known for favoring hues such as baby blue and pale pink in particular. Those soft and sweet feminine shades represent a dramatic break with the dark and moody colors often favored in wintertime, which has long given pastels a strong affiliation with the spring and summer months. For me at the moment, they represent a new beginning and the association with holidays and escapism after those quarantine days.

My look: Stagno coat in light blue by Max Mara, single-breasted floral-lace jacket, partial-lined flared lace trousers, and crystal-embellished sunglasses, all by Gucci, white knitted polo shirt by CHANEL, Love 100 pumps by Jimmy Choo, crystal-embellished leather phone case by Prada, GG Running 18-karat white gold diamond ring and GG Running 18-karat white gold diamond double ring, both by Gucci Fine Jewellery.

Follow my rule: «Better wear candy than eat it… !»

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Inspired by California’s unique sunsets, intense colors like Bleu Egée or Jaune Soleil adorn the wrists this summer at Hermès.

Collier de Chien bracelets in Bleu Eagle and Jaune Soleil

This year is all about innovation. Therefore, the French Maison has developed a progressive material and created the iconic Collier de Chien and Evelyn bracelets from anodized aluminum. The surface of these ultra-light bangles is treated using a special oxidation process, so that the color melts with the metal and is particularly resistant to dirt and scratches.

Evelyn bracelets in five colors

The Collier de Chien and Evelyn bracelets are available in five colors each at a price of CHF 710.- and CHF 470.- respectively.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hermès and © Sandra Bauknecht

What an extraordinary Easter weekend! The sun shining is from above, nature is blossoming at its best and I am at home with my loved ones. Stay home, stay chic – that’s the spirit and so I have dressed up to play a little Easter princess under my Magnolia tree.

My look: Super Eight ruffled floral-print cotton and silk-blend voile top and Super Eight belted floral-print cotton and silk-blend voile maxi skirt, both by Zimmermann, Knightsbridge oversized satin-cloqué bow and Knightsbridge bow crepe-cloqué hair clip, both by Emilia Wickstead, floral cuff and earrings, both by Dolce & Gabbana, small messenger flap bag in Tiffany blue by CHANEL and platform sandals by Alaïa.

Happy Easter weekend to all of you!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Today on Easter Saturday, I would love to spoil you to the fullest with the newest fragrance launches. From fruity florals to white musks, there’s a perfume pick for everyone. Forget chocolate, this year it’s all about beauty surprises for Easter. You can order all of these goodies online, spoil yourself during quarantine. Cheers to that!

LoL, Sandra

ELIE SAAB Le Parfum Essentiel
Eau de Parfum

Elie Saab welcomes a new interpretation of its signature perfume, Le Parfum, for the woman who truly values what’s essential. The white floral chypre fragrance comes with a dazzling effervescence of Mandarin combined with an enveloping Gardenia Accord and a sophisticated Cedary Note.

CHF 78.00 (30ml), CHF 115.00 (50ml), CHF 153.00 (100ml)

Love CHOPARD 
Eau de Parfum

This red carpet signature fragrance is crafted around a whirl of the most precious rose essences and natural ingredients, responsibly sourced all over the world. An ode to the rose, queen of love, queen of flowers and queen of perfumery – composed around six exceptional varieties of roses, among which some of the most extraordinary roses, such as Bulgarian rose oil, Turkish rose absolute and Centifolia rose absolute.

CHF 68.00 (30ml), CHF 102.00 (50ml), CHF 137.00 (100ml)

DIOR HYPNOTIC POISON
Roller-Pearl

Enjoy this new fragrance gesture by Dior – a glass bottle topped with a delicate pearl for discreet and sensorial fragrance application. The magnetic, sensual Vanilla of Hypnotic Poison accompanies you anywhere, anytime.

CHF 55.00 (20ml)

DIOR HYPNOTIC POISON
Hair Mist

Perfuming the hair is a sensual, seductive gesture for mysterious and elusive femininity. This mist pays tribute to this fragrance ritual with an Almond-enriched formula, enveloping hair in a  veil of beauty. Generoulsy perfumed, hair unleashes the full intensity of Hypnotic Poison’s legendary Almond, Jasmine Sambac and Vanilla accords for a captivating and magnetic trail.

CHF 62.00 (40ml)

Gabrielle CHANEL Essence
Eau de Parfum

Inspired by the free and passionate woman who became Coco Chanel, this new essence is a more voluptuous, intensely feminine interpretation of the luminous floral fragrance. The striking square glass bottle is reimagined with bolder golden accents on the cap and label. Composed by In-House Perfumer Creator Olivier Polge, this deep and enveloping scent is an imaginary flower, faceted with Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, Orange Blossom and the most captivating flower of all, Grasse Tuberose. Solar and voluptuous, the scent of a radiant woman.

CHF 95.00 (35ml), CHF 207.00 (150ml)

Fleur Musc NARCISO RODRIGUEZ for her
Eau de Toilette Florale

This new flanker of the iconic for her fragrance comes with the signature heart of Musc that bursts into a vibrant floralbouquet of spices and wood to create a sparkling scent. It reinterprets a woman’s sensuality with supreme confidence and passion. I really like its pink matte bottle.

CHF 102.60 (50ml)

Straight to Heaven BY KILIAN Extrême
Eau de Parfum Refillable Spray

To mark its tenth year anniversary, Kilian pushes two of its heritage scents to their olfactive extremes. Get an overdose of Vanilla and Rum in this very sophisticated scent. Addictive personalities, beware. Like any liquor taken straight, it hits fast, hard and leaves you wanting more. Skipping purgatory altogether, it heads straight to heaven as notes of Martinique Rum hit climax in high dose. The scent of burning rum gently rounds off into a smouldering sensuality of nutmeg essence. A woody amber trail remains, grounded by dark Patchouli and Dry Cedar Wood essence. Inciting the passions comes a lift of vanilla absolute from Madagascar. A beautiful unisex fragrance and definitely the Rolls-Royce among these perfumes.

CHF 335.00 (50ml)

MOËT & CHANDON Rosé Impérial brut
Champagne

And last but not least cheers to Easter! Taste and smell go hand in hand and champagne is always a good idea! Rosé Imperial displays a pink color with amber highlights. Lively and intense, the bouquet exudes red fruits (wild strawberry, raspberry, cherry) with floral nuances of rose and a slight hint of pepper. On the palate, the wine shows a juicy intensity of berries (strawberry, raspberry, red currant) rounded out by the fleshiness and firmness of peach and the freshness of a subtle note of mint.

CHF 57.50 (75cl)

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands, © Sandra Bauknecht
#LoveChopard #ChopardLuxuryNaturalsPerfumery #RedCarpetForever
#MoetMoments #Apero #Easter 

Green is that rare color that means virtually the same thing across the globe. It signifies spring, rebirth, hope and stands for good luck and eco-consciousness.
In my opinion, green means «go», wether you are driving or dressing. It sends a strong message but less aggressive than red. A pair of green heels can elevate every outfit to new heights and is a great addition to every closet.

LoL, Sandra

Purist 105 suede pumps by Aquazzura

Monstera crystal-leaf satin pumps by Nicholas Kirkwood

Hangisi 105 Pumps by Manolo Blahnik

Décolleté 554 85 suede pumps by Christian Louboutin

Gianvito 85 suede pumps by Gianvito Rossi

Green 85 suede pumps by Prada

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Having a spa day at home can be just as relaxing and beautifying as a day spent somewhere expensive. Pick a day when you won’t have any interruptions, turn off your mobile phone, and light some candles to set the scene. Use a body scrub to completely exfoliate your arms, legs, and torso. Your skin will feel soft, smooth and healthy when you get out of the shower. Follow with deep nourishing and a self tanner to achieve a glow as if you just came back from a beach holiday. Enjoy those new and innovative products below that have just been launched this spring.

LoL, Sandra

LA MER The Renewal Body Oil Balm
One of my favorite new products! A lightly scented hydrating body balm that melts into a silken body oil on contact to create hydrated glowing skin all over.

LIERAC Body-Hydra Micropeeling
This innovative micropeeling scrub hydrates and plumps the skin while providing it with a gentle exfoliating action. Infused with two forms of hyaluronic acid, as well as repairing silicium, it re-firms and re-plumps the skin, leaving it radiant and renewed. I personally love its smell.

HAIR RITUEL BY SISLEY Color Perfecting Shampoo
I don’t have grey hair yet and don’t colour my hair but I have many girlfriends who truly suffer that they cannot go to the hair dresser at the moment. Therefore I recommend this shampoo that is designed to gently cleanse and care for colored and highlighted hair. The color is prolonged and doesn’t fade after repeated washes.

SISLEY Self Tanning Hydrating Body Skin Care
SISLEY Self Tanning Hydrating Facial Skin Care
Get a summer glow while enjoying your home office. Those two new self-tanners come with a fresh and pleasant fragrance, and are enriched with moisturizing active ingredients, to give the skin a lasting golden glow. From the very first application, they provide a natural-looking tan (even on light skin). To achieve optimum results on your body, use the velvet tan applicator mitt provided with the product.

CLARINS Extra-Firming Neck & Décolleté
Inspired by the movement of the sunflower’s stem, Clarins Laboratories combined sunflower extracts – unsaponifiables obtained from the seed and auxins obtained from the stem – to visibly improve the elasticity and firmness of the flexible neck and décolleté area, boosting the skin’s resistance to daily bending and rotating while protecting against premature signs of aging.

VALMONT Primary Pomade
Created to provide intense nourishment for even the driest skin, this next-generation balm plunges deep into the epidermis to replenish and soften dry or flaky skin. The skin is smooth, soft, feels comfortable, and heals faster after an aggression. You can use it on the face – I personally love putting it on my elbows, feet and knees.

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands and © Sandra Bauknecht

I love being active and try to do lots of workouts at home during quarantine to stay fit. I truly miss my weekly pilates class with Karolina Schmid and cannot wait until her studio opens again. Great news for my Zurich based readers: she will be opening another studio in Höngg with PILATESwiss wall boards and classes in June.

Whatever your favorite workout might be, the right activewear makes it even more fun. Hit the gym in Versace’s Greek key-infused pieces that elevate your casual look.

My look: Zip-up tech-jersey hooded sweatshirt, logo-jacquard low-impact sports bra, and logo-jacquard technical jersey leggings, all by Versace, Portugaba tote by Christian Louboutin, Run away sneaker in blue by Louis Vuitton, Love bracelets by Cartier, Royal Oak 37mm 18-karat frosted rose gold watch by Audemars Piguet and FF-print round acetate sunglasses by Fendi.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.