Sandra‘s Closet

During the 14th Zurich Film Festival I was invited by Swarovski to the «Women of Impact» lunch at Storchen followed by a thought-provoking evening featuring conversations with high-profile personalities from the film industry and raising the topic: «Why are there still so few women who are successful in the film industry as a director or producer?» This was discussed by the directors Jennifer Fox and Sedika Mojadidi, the producer Alison Dickey and the actor John C. Reilly as well as Shakila Ebrhaimkhel. The event was be chaired by two female entrepreneurs, Nadja Schildknecht and Carolina Müller-Möhl.

Women of Impact: Mimi Mollerus, Carolina Müller-Möhl, Astrid von Stockar, my humble self, Tamy Glauser, Dominique Rinderknecht and Sarah Andrina Schuetz

For my outfit I went for full Swarovski bling. Finally I had the chance to wear my crystal-embellished boots that I adore so much. Following the question raised that night, I thought Dior’s «Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?» tee would take the same line. You see, I really put effort in this combination, taking fashion as a medium to express myself.

My look: Leopard jacquard blazer and Niki Swarovski crystal-embellished leather knee boots, both by Saint Laurent, striped top «Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?» by Dior, leather and jersey leggings by Givenchy, oversize acetate sunglasses with crystals by Gucci, and Swarovski embellished earrings by Prada.

The woman that impressed me most that day: Shakila Ebrhaimkhel, an investigative TV journalist in Afghanistan, who tries to bring corruption to light. Over the course of four years, her life has been documented by Sedika Mojadidi in FACING THE DRAGON. The documentary offers a unique insight into today’s seething Afghanistan and explores the question of whether there is a future there for strong women in this country. Today, after loosing her husband when she was pregnant with her third child, and  threats to her life, Shakila lives in Munich. In only two years, she learnt perfect German and works as a journalist again. A truly inspirational woman!

From left to right: Monika Schaerer, Birgit Berthold-Kremser, Jennifer Fox, Wendy Mitchell, Carolina Mueller-Moehl, Alison Dickey, John C. Reilly and Nadja Schildknecht.

So many inspirational women that day – thank you, Swarovski, for shining a light on women’s empowerment!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Remy Steiner/Getty Images for Swarovski and © Sandra Bauknecht

I cannot believe that it is already October. Time just flies… we were so blessed this year with beautiful weather that I can hardly imagine that we will soon be freezing.

What I love about fall the most is that I enjoy being at home and making myself cozy. I love to spray my house with a yummy room scent that welcomes me every day with summer memories.

LALIQUE Voyage de Parfumeur
Vanille Room Spray

A delicate, delicious aroma of the sweetest of orchids: vanilla – pairing it with a sandalwood heart and a musky amber base for a delectable, enveloping and mouth-watering effect.
CHF 65.00 (100ml)

There are also three new scents on the market that you shouldn’t miss: Yuzu, Figuier and Santal.

In my beauty closet, fall starts when I exchange my fragrances for more opulent ones. One scent I have been loving since many years is:

MUSK RAVAGEUR by Maurice Roucel
Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle

This beautiful oriental rich scent has a intense, warm base of vanilla, amber and musk with top notes of bergamot, tangerine and cinnamon. Complex and lasting, it’s perfect for anyone who loves sensual and powerful fragrances.

TO SHOP MUSK RAVAGEUR ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

Moreover, there are two new fragrances on the market that caught my attention. If you get a chance, I recommend trying them – they are both really beautiful. There’s no reason buying a gift shouldn’t be a treat for you, too:-)!

BVLGARI GOLDEA
The Roman Night Absolute

Created by  Alberto Morillas, this scent is a hypnotic modern elixir, a chypre musk with exhilarating power. Orange blossom and black plum provide a stunningly unexpected opening. The majestic floral heart electrifies you with an addictive absolute encapsulation of sensuality. Mysterious and magnetic, blended with black musk, the chypre accord stirs under bewitching patchouli and crystal moss while exuding the scent of infinity.
Eau de Parfum Sensuelle
CHF 78.00 (30ml), CHF 117.00 (50ml) and CHF 140.00 (75ml)

DOLCE & GABBANA
The Only One

A new fragrance that captures the essence of sophisticated and hypnotizing femininity. The Only One’s signature lies in the surprising combination of violet and coffee giving life to an enchanting floral scent. The fragrance is an interesting play of opposites; it is from this fusion of the unexpected that it draws its appeal. The violet opens the fragrance, combining with subtle touches of bergamot to create a lively, surprizing and juicy bouquet. At the heart, seductive notes of rich coffee are blended with charming iris. Finally, the warm base of vanilla and patchouli lends a tactile, comforting quality, enveloping the senses in an opulent embrace.
Eau de Parfum
CHF 86.00 (30ml), CHF 114.00 (50ml) and CHF 159.00 (100ml)

When the fall season starts, I tend to wear darker lip colors – preferably in red. A new generation of care lipsticks with an ultra-silky texture that envelop the lips with a fine, smoothing, contouring and hydrating film. Perfect for the cold season.

SISLEY
Le Phyto Rouge

The intensity of a lipstick combined with a balm-like sensation in an exceptional skin care formula and a stunning packaging that makes it a real beauty accessory. Thanks to the «Hydrobooster Complex» composed of microspheres of hyaluronic acid and konjac glucomannans, lips are immediately plumped up, voluptuous and smoothed.
CHF 53.00 each

TO SHOP SISLEY LE PHYTO ROUGE ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photo: © Sandra Bauknecht
Stills: Courtesy of the Brands

In partnership with Mizensir, the Geneva-based specialists in candles and ambient fragrances, Caran d’Ache unveils its new edition of pencils made from fine woods and scented with the «Mémoire d’Ecolier» fragrance.

Interesting to know is that behind Mizensir, there is no other than master perfumer Alberto Morillas, who started along with his wife the family business in Geneva in 1999. The two initially set up a scented candle workshop and combined their skills to turn fragrances into wax. Today, the brand boasts more than one hundred different products, including a collection of perfumes, each creating a specific ambient message.

Alberto Morillas favours the very finest raw materials, paying homage to his Andalusian origins, his family and the numerous journeys and encounters that have marked his life. Now he has joined forces with another Swiss company for which craftsmanship plays also an important role: Caran d’Ache, the master craftsmen of drawing and writing.

Driven by a shared passion for creativity, excellence and Swiss Made ideals, the two family businesses have combined their unique know-how to create a new scented edition of four graphite Caran d’Ache pencils, that are delightfully scented with the retro fragrance «Mémoire d’Ecolier», whisking you back to a time when you were still sitting in school.

Me on my first day of school holding a Caran d’Ache pencil.

Bringing back childhood memories, this scent reveals notes and essences of Virginian cedar and Atlas cedar, underpinned by the sweetness of liquorice, rosewood and the freshness of birch. This unique scent of freshly sharpened pencils combined with sweet notes of candy hidden in school bags or desks offers aficionados of rare pencils the chance to recall their carefree childhood days.

The Caran d’Ache pencils edition no.8 set will be available for CHF 29.00 from mid-October from all Caran d’Ache boutiques and points of sale, as well as from the eBoutique.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Caran d’Ache and © Sandra Bauknecht

When it comes to ’90s trends, we’ve beaten the horse dead. But sorry to tell you, here is one more coming, and good news is more stylish than ever. Another item you loved as a tween, if only to justify my new obsession: plaid pants. From tartan checks to madras plaid, you have to get one now! Here are the best ones available now… straight from the runway.

Checked woven straight-leg pants by Versace

Cropped tartan wool straight-leg pants by Michael Kors Collection

Jana crepe wide-leg pants by Emilia Wickstead

Layered tartan wool-blend slim-leg pants by Burberry

Tartan wool-blend flared pants by Michael Kors Collection

Checked wool-felt flared pants by Sonia Rykiel

Pleated tartan wool wide-leg pants by Marc Jacobs

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands

To be honest, nobody actually needs an excuse to head to Ladurée and grab some perfectly yummy macarons. Now, you have one reason more to go. A limited edition box and a sophisticated tea tin, emblazoned with the label’s signature motifs, such as the golden spider’s web and the tiger, is the latest outcome of the collaboration between the Maison’s new brand T by Ladurée Paris and English designer Charlotte Olympia.

«It was a fantastic experience going through the process of creating my unique tea and macaroon and I look forward to indulging in my dream teatime collaboration.»
Charlotte Olympia​

Charlotte Olympia has chosen an elegant and surprising gourmet tea to go with the tin. Composed of a subtle blend of Indian and Chinese black teas and flavoured with bergamot, almond and chocolate, it’s a truly delectable treat.

Leaf tea (100g): 30€
Gift Box (8 Macarons): 21.50€

Window display on 56, Maddox Street in London W1S 1AY

Available now at Thé&Beauté store 232 rue de Rivoli – Paris 1er, in Charlotte Olympia’s store on 56, Madddox Street in London and online.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Charlotte Olympia and La Durée
© Sandra Bauknecht

One week ago, the 14th Zurich Film Festival opened with the European premiere of director Peter Farrelly’s drama GREEN BOOK, that for the first time in the festival’s history led to standing ovations. Farrelly and Academy Award® nominee Viggo Mortensen (Eastern Promises, The Lord of the Rings Trilogy) attended as honored guests.

My look: Vintage eagle plaque shoulder bag and vintage eagle earrings, both by Chanel, button-embellished tweed gown by Balmain and platform sandals by Alaïa.

After the screening, the after party took place at Globus Bellevue. Partying in a store is always a great experience…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
© Schweizer Illustrierte / Olivia Pulver and © Getty Images / Andreas Rentz

ESSIE‘s Fall 2018 six shade nail polish collection will have your fall for NYC. If these city slicking nail polishes can make it here, you can take them anywhere.

From left to right: It Takes a West Village – Stop, Drop & Shop – Booties on Broadway – Fall for NYC – Say It Ain’t Soho – Empire Shade of Mind

Available now for CHF 14.90 (13,5ml).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of ESSIE

Breast cancer … it’s a scary thought and all too many women assume that it won’t happen to them. Fact is though, every 19 seconds a woman is diagnosed with this terrible disease somewhere on this planet. So, don’t be ignorant, during breast cancer awareness month October go for a medical checkup, it might save your life. Moreover you can shop for a good cause by getting one of the PINK RIBBON 2018 products below. The Estée Lauder Companies’ iconic brands support the mission #TimeToEndBreastCancer to create a breast cancer-free world. In Switzerland they raise funds for the «Look Good Feel Better» foundation that helps people with cancer deal with the appearance side effects of cancer treatment.

LIMITED EDITIONS ESTÉE LAUDER
Advanced Night Repair with Pink Ribbon Keychain
Enjoy the #1 repair serum plus a collectible keychain, honoring and supporting breast cancer awareness.
CHF 149.00 (50ml) of which CHF 20.00 will go to charity.

Powerful Pink Color Collection
A make-up set with everything you need.
CHF 75.00 of which CHF 15.00 will go to charity.

Powerful Pink Contour & Highlight Minaudière
This golden, sophisticated clutch holds a Pure Color Lipstick, plus powerful pink makeup shades to sculpt and glow-on-the-go.
CHF 195.00 of which CHF 30.00 will go to charity.
All three available at Estée Lauder counters or online.

LIMITED EDITION BOBBI BROWN
Pinks with Purpose Lip Color Duo
Think pink with this set featuring two of our iconic, semi-matte lipsticks that deliver comfortable, full-coverage color in a single swipe.
CHF 59.00 of which CHF 15.00 will go to charity.
Available at Bobbi Brown counters and online.

LIMITED EDITIONS CLINIQUE
Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+
Limited-edition bottle of the famous yellow lotion in a jumbo size for a great cause. Adorned with a 5-charm key ring including the Pink Ribbon.
CHF 89.00 (200ml) of which CHF 17.00 will go to charity.
Available at Globus and Jelmoli.

Moisture Surge – 72Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Enjoy 72 hours of non-stop hydration, even after washing your face.
CHF 39.00 (50ml) of which CHF 7.00 will go to charity.
Available at Manor, Marionnaud, Import and Beauty Alliance.

LIMITED EDITION LA MER
Cleansing Micellar Water
This light, fresh, sea-inspired cleanser sweeps away dirt and micro-emulsifies makeup in one rinseless step.
CHF 60.00 (100ml) of which CHF 12.00 will go to charity.
Available at all La Mer counters.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands

«A reflection on contemporary women»

Do you remember when I flew to Florence in the end of 2016 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of AUDEMARS PIGUET’s Royal Oak (for the previous post click here please)? It was love at first sight when I spotted the outcome of the creative collaboration between the Swiss watch manufacturer and my beloved Italian jewellery designer Carolina Bucci who was enlisted to reinvent the iconic watch model while paying tribute to its rich heritage. The Royal Oak Frosted Gold, which has been available in pink or white god so far, is absolutely divine and is still on top of my wish list.

This fall, they deliver another surprise with this eponymous 37mm limited edition Royal Oak in yellow gold. The shiny, silver-toned mirror, framed with the shimmering sparkle of a Frosted Gold case and bracelet, replaces the trademark «Tapisserie» Royal Oak dial. Described by its designer as «rebellious» in character, this is an attention-grabbing piece, made in the image of a contemporary woman: spontaneous, true-to-life and totally unapologetic.

Carolina Bucci’s original 2016 Frosted Gold design celebrated 40 years of Royal Oak for women. With this limited edition of 300 pieces, her design evolves in new directions. For the first time, the «diamond dust» finish appears in yellow gold – the designer’s favourite version of this precious metal. There’s novelty in the packaging as well, with a mirrored box bearing a Frosted Gold AP insignia. This mirrored box is also designed by Carolina Bucci, who believes in pulling out luxury watch packaging from the back of the closet to put it on display.

“For me, Royal Oak is the watch. I wear it all the time; it’s part of my style, my signature.”
Above all, being almost without precedent in the annals of the Manufacture, this mirrored dial is stunning. Carolina Bucci explains her inspiration with a certain, yet unexpected, creative logic: “With the first Frosted Gold design, I took the perfection of the Royal Oak case and bracelet and ‘roughed them up’ a little, juxtaposing the perfectly imperfect Florentine finish with Swiss watchmaking precision. Now I’m doing the opposite, taking the textured surface of the ‘Tapisserie’ dial and flattening it out into a perfectly smooth mirror. The motive for both is to create something interesting and unpredictable. It’s a fresh take on an icon made in the image of a contemporary woman. I know women with a great eye for keynote accessories who are going to love this. The mirror is always interacting with its environment, ever-changing according to what clothes you’re wearing, the décor of the room, the lighting, the time of day, the weather.”

“I designed the Royal Oak Frosted Gold in response to a challenge from Audemars Piguet.”

It’s a creation that has come with technical challenges. The mirrored dial is the most unforgiving component; only perfection will do. Carolina’s complete satisfaction with the result, which, has surpassed her own expectations, is testament to the Manufacture’s rigorous quality control, Carolina being known for her eagle eye and uncompromising standards.

Chairwoman of Audemars Piguet’s Board of Directors, Jasmine Audemars is an established fan of Frosted Gold and has been wearing the first edition 37mm selfwinding model since 2016. For her, “the creativity behind the Frosted Gold watch is simply amazing. It is both art and a very high level of technology. With Carolina Bucci, we created a kind of masterpiece.” She sees the new limited edition with its mirrored dial as «the final touch:» “It’s unique and fun. Who needs a selfie when you can look at yourself in your watch?”

This new limited edition ROYAL OAK FROSTED GOLD in yellow gold is in stores now for CHF 53’900.-.

Personally speaking, one of the most beautiful watches I have ever seen! Bravo Carolina for your creativity and bravo Audemars Piguet for this collaboration.

TO SHOP CAROLINA BUCCI’S JEWELRY DESIGNS SHE IS WEARING IN THE PICTURES, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: ©Audemars Piguet 2018

Gabriela Hearst believes in «honest luxury» – pieces that are beautifully made and don’t compromise her ethics and values. «There is a purpose to every piece,» says the former model of her eponymous label which is inspired by the ranch she grew up on in Uruguay and her current life in New York City. From the beautiful gowns to the impeccable tailoring, each garment is thoughtfully designed and crafted using the most luxurious fabrics. But really exclusive are her bags (for a previous post, click here please) as you cannot buy them in a store or online besides now.

For a limited time period of two-weeks only, Net-à-Porter is launching a pop-up boutique of Gabriela Hearst bags, which includes the exclusive «Patsy» and the new «Diana» styles along with the iconic «Nina» and «Demi» totes.

My favorite: Diana leather tote
It’s pretty much a given that every new bag Gabriela Hearst releases will become a hit in no time, but this ‘Diana’ bag that’s shaped like an accordion really strikes all the right notes. Made in Italy, it’s detailed with polished rose gold hardware and opens to reveal a striking red lining.

Another must-have: Patsy textured-leather tote
Inspired by vanity cases, this ‘Patsy’ tote has been made in Italy from pristine textured-leather with rose gold hardware. Be sure to snap it up quickly – the designer’s sought-after bags will only be available for a limited period of time.

Iconic: Nina leather tote
The unique round shape of this highly coveted tote is inspired by the exaggerated and voluminous designs of Colombian sculptor Fernando Botero. Known for its origami-like silhouette, this structured tote has been crafted from buttery leather and punctuated with gleaming rose gold hardware.

Me with my beloved Nina tote in cognac, click here for the outfit post.

TO SHOP GABRIELA HEARST BAGS FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Gabriela Hearst, Net-à-Porter and © Sandra Bauknecht