Sandra‘s Closet

I am here in CAPRI to celebrate life and EDGARO OSORIO‘s new island adventure, the beautiful new shop located in the city center. Here, the story of the famous shoe brand began during a sunny summer day on the terrace of JK Place. The view of the bright blue color of the sea inspired the name AQUAZZURA. The light, sun, colors and sea of this unique island embody mood and unmistakable vibe of the brand’s lifestyle. Today, Edgardo shares his travel tips for Capri.

Your favourite holiday destination?
CAPRI is one of my favourite places to holiday in Italy, with its rugged coastline, the Blue Grotto and delicious food, this island is a treat for all the senses. The island is particularly close to my heart as it is where I came up with the name and concept for Aquazzura. Like Capri, Aquazzura should remind you of the Dolce Vita and of a fabulous summer holiday.

Your favourite hotel?
When I am in Capri my home is always the JK PLACE HOTEL.
Via Marina Grande, 225, 80076 Capri NA, Phone: +39 081 838 4001

Your favourite restaurant during the day?
For lunch my favourite restaurant is IL RICCIO in Anacapri.
Via Gradola, 4, 80071 Anacapri NA, Phone: +39 081 837 1380

Your favourite restaurant at night?
For dinner, I love restaurant DA PAOLINO.
Via Palazzo a Mare, 3/4, 80076 Marina Grande NA, Phone: +39 081 837 6102

Your favourite night club?
After I dance the night away at TAVERNA ANEMA E CORE, a really unique night club with a retro vibe.
Via Sella Orta, 1, 80076 Capri NA, Phone: +39 081 837 6461

Your favourite gelateria?
If you are looking for the best ice cream in Capri, you have to visit GELATERIA BUONOCORE, my favourite.
Via Vittorio Emanuele, 35, 80073 Capri NA, Phone: +39 081 837 7826

Your favourite day activity?
During the day I love chilling at LA FONTELINA BEACH CLUB.

Your favourite sightseeing spot?
When you are in Capri, you cannot leave without visiting the beautiful VILLA LYSIS, you will be amazed by the best view of Capri. It is a unique and enchanting spot, closely tied to the life and tastes of Jacques d’Adelswärd Fersen, a Parisian count who withdrew to the island of Capri in self-imposed exile to escape a series of scandals in his home country.
Via Lo Capo, 12, 80076 Capri NA

Your favourite shop?
Of course for the best shoes, you cannot miss the new AQUAZZURA boutique!
Via Vittorio Emanuele, 5, 80073 Capri NA, Phone: +39 081 1807 3010

The best book to read while being on vacation there?
A book that always reminds me of Capri is THE EXILE OF CAPRI, the story of a young eccentric aristocrat that used to live in the historic VILLA LYSIS that exiles in Capri and finds love.

The best soundtrack for this destination?
To better feel the atmosphere of this amazing island I love listening to the song TU VUÒ FA’ L’AMERICANO, the version sang by FIORELLO that is the soundtrack of one of my favourite movies, THE TALENTED MR. RIPLEY shot at the Amalfi Coast.

Thank you, Edgardo, for sharing your insider scoop on Capri with us!

If you are interested, don’t miss Edgardo’s travel tips for his hometown Florence. Click here for the previous post.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Via the respective locations, © Aquazzura and © Sandra Bauknecht

Today’s post is dedicated to my favorite S/S 2020 shoes in my closet. From candy-colored sandals to pair with flowy summer dresses to chunky platforms that promise height and comfort, there’s a variety of options ranging from trendy to functional that’ll put you in a better mood just by looking at them.

Some are already on sale, just click on the highlighted product descriptions to find out more.

LoL, Sandra

Sundance metallic vegan leather platform sandals by Aquazzura

White Upflair feather-trimmed leather sandals by Valentino

Queen Of The Desert embellished suede sandals by Aquazzura

Chiara embroidered leather sandals by Sophia Webster

Ambra plateau sandals by Gianvito Rossi

C-plaque suede platform sandals by Chloé

Purist 105 suede pumps by Aquazzura

Quilted leather mules by Bottega Veneta

Logo-jacquard canvas wedge espadrilles by Fendi

Raynibo 100 crystal-embellished suede sandals by Christian Louboutin

Photos: © David Biedert Photography
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

Dreamy Sundays well spent at home are the best. When you never want to be changing out of your lazy Sunday morning outfit… but sometimes you have to get up to join your friends for lunch. Here is my comfy alternative… I hope you like it! Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

My look: Essentials appliquéd cotton-jersey T-shirt by Saint Laurent, Bellitude tasseled paneled polka-dot cotton-voile midi skirt by Zimmermann, gold-tone, pearl and crystal earrings by Gucci, Queen Of The Desert embellished suede sandals
by Aquazzura, LV Pont 9 shoulder bag in Rose Dahlia by Louis Vuitton, Etincelle de Cartier ring in pink gold with diamonds, Clash de Cartier ring large model in pink gold with amazonite, and LOVE bracelets, all by Cartier, Royal Oak 37mm 18-karat frosted rose gold watch by Audemars Piguet, and Pétales de Camélia ring in yellow gold with diamond by CHANEL Fine Jewelry.

LoL, Sandra

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

 Last Saturday, we celebrated my fiancé‘s 36th birthday bash at La Réserve Eden au Lac. Unfortunately due to the bad weather, we had to change the location and moved from the rooftop terrace to the restaurant downstairs. Nevertheless, the last minute adjustment didn‘t have any impact on the great ambiance and party mood of our guests. Everyone was so delighted to be back among dear friends, enjoying great food, fun live music and dancing.

I was extremely happy to finally wear my full-on feather gown. However, I changed for the second part of the night. Stay tuned, I will show you my other outfit soon!

My look: Crystal-embellished feather-trimmed silk gown by Dolce & Gabbana, silver-tone crystal clip earrings by Alessandra Rich, Clara ombré crystal-embellished box bag by Sophia Webster, Flash Dance 105 suede sandals by Aquazzura, Panthère de Cartier Manchette 22mm 18-karat rose gold and diamond watch, JUSTE UN CLOU bracelet in rose gold with diamonds, LOVE bracelet SM in white gold, LOVE bracelet SM in yellow gold with 10 diamonds, LOVE bracelet in rose gold with 4 diamonds, and CLASH DE CARTIER bracelet SM in rose gold, all by Cartier, and Coco Crush bracelet in yellow gold by CHANEL Fine Jewelry.

LoL, Sandra

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

I love Aquazzura shoes and I love their stores. Each one of our boutiques has a very different feel but share a common thread. One of my favorite ones is located at the heart of Milan in Via Sant’Andrea, 12. While I am furnishing my new house, this interior design has fully inspired me. I adore its fine custom made décor in fine, sophisticated materials, such as French marble, blown glass, velvet and brass.

You can shop a large selection of Aquazzura shoes online at Net-à-Porter.

The black and white stripes, which are recurrent features of the brand and which are being used for their shoe boxes for example, look so great together with the pale pink furniture and glossy lacquer paneling walls, inspired by 70’ Italian style. The beautiful interior was designed by Casa do Passadiço’s interior designers, Cláudia and Catarina Soares, in collaboration with Aquazzura’s Edgardo Osorio.

The golden brass wall is covered of thousands of hand-cut golden scales, creating a pattern that is reminiscent of the gold pineapple, another iconic symbol of the brand. Another highlight of the shop is the mouth-blown Murano glass chandelier, which adds to this intimate luxurious parlour a contemporary elegance and luxury.

LoL, Sandra

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

Being an EIP (extremely important person) at Net-à-Porter, aka very good customer, is something I can only recommend. I have been a loyal client of the online shopping destination since many many years, and can only tell you that the customer service, the private shopping department and the invitations you get are outstanding. I have become friends with many of the team members. Net-à-Porter has become a family for me, and I am part of it.

Great memories: With Edgardo in 2013 and with Elizabeth last summer in Paris.

During quarantine, Net-à-Porter started an online event series for their top clients. As travelling has not been an option lately, we meet with the designers or beauty specialist, top chefs and others over Zoom. Yesterday, I had sunset cocktails with Edgardo Osorio of AQUAZZURA
and Elizabeth von der Goltz, Global Buying Director Net-à-Porter and one of the most stylish women I know.

For Edgardo it was more like a morning juice as he spent his quarantine in Los Angeles in his beach house located next to the sea. He told us that his favorite thing to do has been planting flowers, mostly gardenias for the smell and lavender for the color. We might be seeing lots of floral details in his next collection as he has been drawing mainly nature.

«FASHION NEEDS TO MAKE PEOPLE DREAM.»

Edgardo is a people person and is truly looking forward to hugging his friends and family again. On Monday, he is going back to Italy as the stores and warehouses are opening again. For him, it was an absolutely new experience to be in one place for over 2 months. Usually, he is constantly on the go, and surrounded by his friends. AQUAZZURA shoes can be seen on the feet of trendsetters, Hollywood stars, European royalty and fashion insiders all around the globe.

Some of my new AQUAZZURA shoes, I got during quarantine.

How did he start his company? After attending the London College of Fashion and Central Saint Martins, he made his first step into the footwear world working with some of the most prestigious luxury brands such as Salvatore Ferragamo, René Caovilla, and Roberto Cavalli. In 2011, after 10 years in the industry and at just 25 years old, he launched his luxury footwear brand AQUAZZURA. His initial idea was to create shoes for dancing. The summer before he created his brand, he was invited to twelve weddings in one summer and was always placed next to the dance floor. No wonder, born in Colombia and raised between Miami and London, he is always the first and last one on it. «Dancing lifts your mood, it’s the best exercise,» he says. On Spotify, you can even find the AQUAZZURA Happy Summer 2020 playlist. As his female friends were always complaining that they cannot find shoes comfortable enough to dance in, he decided to change this.

«COMFORTABLE WAS A DIRTY WORD.»

«You need to fall in love with your shoe. It becomes part of your body,» Edgardo explains. In the past nine years, AQUAZZURA has gained global recognition as an innovator in the footwear industry. «Nine years ago, when I started my brand, comfortable was a dirty word. You should never have to apologize for wearing flats. So I decided to create a flat you don’t need to apologize for.»

Click here for the outfit post with the Christy flats.

The so-called Christy flat immediately caused a frenzy among fashionistas. A classic flat gets dressed up with a pretty lace-up tie and brilliant metallic heel. What else could you dream of? Comfortable, feminine and chic in one.

«LUXURIOUS THINGS TAKE TIME TO MAKE.»

For Edgardo, «the definition of luxury is time. Fashion became too fast. Luxurious things take time to make. For a shoe, a millimeter makes the difference. Either it doesn’t fit or it is uncomfortable.» At AQUAZZURA, it takes around 6-12 months to make a new shoe model. Edgardo explains: «We have a fit model, we always work with. After around 5-7 fit trials, it goes into production. Then we make a size run.»

Edgardo’s sketch was all about yellow yesterday.

«I LOVE TO GIVE A PUMP MOVEMENT.»

At the moment, he has a thing for yellow. He loves India, Mexico, color, and crafts. His favorite details are fringes, tassels, everything that moves. «I love to give a pump movement». While we are in the Zoom meeting, he immediately grabs a pen and starts designing a shoe. Instantly, you can see how he combines his passion for modern design with impeccable luxury craftsmanship to create timeless footwear with a twist.

For his travel tips for Florence, click here please for the previous post.

What will be the first thing Edgardo will do once he is back in Florence? «I’ll grab an insane portion of gelato (ice-cream in Italian), pistachio and cookies & cream and watch the sunset on the bridge.» Where will he spend his summer? «I would love to do a road trip through Italy. I will definitely go to the Amalfi Coast and stay longer there. In August, I will go to Greece, one of my favorite places in the world.»

De Gournay x Aquazzura

«I LOVE MATCHIMALISM.»

When I asked him if we can expect more accessories, such as bags, belts and scarfs or even ready-to-wear as I love matching outfits, he laughed and said: «I also love matchimalism and completely understand what you mean. But before I launch ready-to-wear, I will focus more on tablecloths and home accessories following my collaboration with De Gournay. However, more accessories will follow and in fall, I am going to launch men’s footwear and my own tequila.»

Speaking of which, as we met for sunset cocktails, Edgardo showed us to prepare a margarita and a mocktail, which I loved. Edgardo is obsessed with ginger and includes it in everything he can. He likes it spicy. Cheers!

LoL, Sandra

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

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.

Incredible women deserve a gift like no other, and they don’t come any more exclusive or special than this. For holiday 2019, NET-A-PORTER offers an edit of Fantasy Gifts including everything from a bespoke shoe experience in Florence with Aquazzura’s Edgardo Osorio, to a luxurious Priesteregg ski retreat and Bogner wardrobe for schussing on the slopes. These limited-edition packages are designed to treat the receiver to once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

The 6 Fantasy Gifts will be available from October 24, and can be purchased through their dedicated Personal Shoppers (If you are an EIP, e-mail your personal shopper now to secure your selection …). Here are all the details for your beforehand (Click on the highlighted text please, to be transferred directly.):

The Ultimate Spa Weekend in Budapest with Omorovicza

• NET-A-PORTER’s beauty team has partnered with Omorovicza to create the ultimate spa experience for two people.
• Including two nights at the stunning Four Seasons Gresham Palace in a River View King Room, with breakfast included and a private driver for the duration of the stay.
• Full body and face treatments, and a bespoke skincare consultation at the Omorovicza Spa plus an additional treatment at the hotel spa
• Guests will receive the entire Omorovicza range delivered to their home, including samples of new products yet to be released.
• Not forgetting to recharge the mind as well as the body, this experience also includes a private boat trip along the Danube, a private sunrise or moonlight visit to the Rudas Thermal Baths and dinner with Omorovicza founders Stephen and Margaret de Heinrich.
• In addition to two box tickets to the Opera and cocktails at private members house in District 6, Brody Studios.
• Limited edition: 3 available globally

The Ultimate Ski Weekend with Bogner

• The NET-A-PORTER team has planned the ultimate ski retreat in an exclusive partnership with German athluxury brand Bogner.
• Available from Friday 10th to Sunday 12th January 2020 and offered with shuttle service from the airport, this trip for two includes two nights at the private Willy Bogner chalet in Priesteregg, which boasts spectacular panoramic views over the valley and surrounding mountains.
• Including two-day ski passes for the Saalbach Hunterglemm Leogang and Bogner ski outfits (including jacket, pants and a first layer) and equipment (including skis, ski sticks, goggles and helmet).
• This trip also includes the ultimate alpine clubbing experience and there’s the option of a helicopter flight over the four-piste network.
• Limited edition: 1 available globally

Jessica McCormack Botanical Heirloom Jewelry Box

• London-based fine jewelry designer Jessica McCormack is offering this exquisite one-of-a-kind jewelry box, inspired by the whimsical tales of Alice in Wonderland and The Secret Garden
• Featuring two velvet-lined trays sectioned into compartments and embroidered with flora and fauna – every bead, thread, and metallic yarn has been hand-stitched by artisans at Hand & Lock, embroiderers to the Royal Family and purveyors of the art since 1767.
• Turning the tasseled key in the lock of the chest reveals a carefully curated collection of 17 of the brands best-selling styles, including six rings, four pairs of earrings, four necklaces, and a single 3.01-carat diamond charm, which you can use to adorn any chain.
• You’ll also have a chance to visit the brand’s Carlos Place townhouse and select the final personalized touches with Jessica herself.
• Limited edition: 1 available globally

The Bespoke Shoe Experience with Aquazzura

• The ultimate gift for shoe lovers, this unique NET-A-PORTER experience provides the chance to visit the home of Aquazzura in Florence and the private studio of founder and designer Edgardo Osorio, located within the historical Palazzo Corsini.
• Accommodation for one is included at the Four Seasons, where you’ll receive flowers, a small gift and a personal handwritten note from Edgardo, as well as a special guide to his favorite places in the city.
• You will have the chance to see his design and creative process first-hand as he creates a customized shoe exclusively for you, and you will receive a signed sketch after the studio visit.
• Edgardo will also host an intimate private luncheon at his home in the Palazzo. Car transfers in the city are also included.
• Limited edition: 3 available globally

The Ultimate Net-à-Porter Party Wardrobe

• Create your dream party closet with this unique NET-A-PORTER experience.
• With the help of a dedicated personal shopper, you’ll enjoy access to What’s New first, exclusive previews and a chance to pre-order the pieces you love.
• Following a personal consultation, our team will work with you on a wardrobe detox to overhaul your collection and make room for key investment items – leaving you to enjoy a wardrobe where everything is meticulously organized and arranged.
• With a personal edit of the season’s most sought-after pieces, you’ll have all that you need for every event, function and dinner in your schedule.
• Limited edition: 3 available globally

The Shoe of the Month Subscription

• Our Fantasy Gifts make the most special and stylish experiences you could ever wish for into a reality.
• This subscription allows you to transform your wardrobe from the feet up with a new pair of beautiful shoes every month – from the ultimate statement shoe to the perfect pump.
• You’ll be assigned your own dedicated personal shopper from NET-A-PORTER’s fashion team, who’ll give you styling advice, tell you exactly what’s trending and grant you access to products before anyone else, along with the power to pre-order.
• Limited edition: 3 available globally

Aren’t all those gifts just amazing? Which one is your favorite! I am curious to hear…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © NET-À-PORTER 

Animal prints have been trending since a long time, but this F/W 2019 season, it’s time for the zebras to cross. The black and white stripes were spotted on many runways, including 3.1 Phillip Lim, Saint Laurent and Paco Rabanne.

 Get ahead of the fashion tribe and indulge in the new zebra-print pieces that are all the rage these days. I put the best ones together for you! And don’t forget to scroll to the end for an amazing surprise…

Zebra-print silk kaftan by Oscar de la Renta

Tori zebra-print silk-satin headband by Jennifer Behr

Zebra-print mid-rise skinny jeans by Saint Laurent

Dumont zebra-print toquilla straw Panama hat by Sensi Studio

My favorite: Pussy-bow lace-trimmed zebra-print crepe de chine blouse and asymmetric zebra-print crepe de chine midi skirt, both by Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini

Luna zebra-print calf hair shoulder bag by Wandler

Left: Embellished zebra-print satin maxi skirt by Versace,
Right: Zebra-intarsia knitted midi skirt by Hervé Léger

For the smart shoppers among you, here is the surprise. Some amazing zebra-print pieces are extremely marked down and perfect investments for the F/W 2019 season:

1 Lace-trimmed zebra-print satin top by Chloé (50% off and extra 20% at checkout)
2 Alma 85 zebra-print calf hair ankle boots by Aquazzura (60% off)
3 Shiva 105 cutout zebra-print calf hair pumps by Aquazzura (60% off)
4 Stafford belted zebra-print calf hair coat by Joseph (80% off)
5 Blossom tiger-print sequined chiffon wrap top by Rixo (70% off)
6 Leather-trimmed zebra-jacquard coat by Alexander McQueen (70% off)

Happy weekend!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands and © Sandra Bauknecht

From flats and kitten heels to something a little higher, these backless shoes will score instant cool points and are so perfect for a sexy walk to the pool!

LoL, Sandra

Paige knotted leather mules by Cult Gaia

Quart 80 suede mules by Christian Louboutin

Crawford knotted leather mules by Gucci

Croisette crystal-embellished leather and suede sandals by Giuseppe Zanotti

Maureen 100 leather mules by Malone Souliers

Lyn 105 python mules by Gianvito Rossi

Smokey 100 crystal-embellished glittered leather mules by Jimmy Choo

Donata Swarovski crystal-embellished leopard-print suede mules by Aquazzura

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands