Sandra‘s Closet

I was thrilled to hear about the appointment of Pierpaolo Piccioli as the new creative director of Balenciaga. Having had the chance to meet him personally, I was deeply impressed not only by his creative vision but also by his warmth and humility. His work at Valentino was nothing short of exceptional — poetic, elegant, and deeply human.

I loved Valentino under Pierpaolo.

With a career spanning over two decades, Pierpaolo began as an accessories designer at Fendi before joining Valentino in 1999. He rose to become co-creative director alongside Maria Grazia Chiuri, and later took the helm as sole creative director in 2016. Under his leadership, Valentino embraced a romantic, emotionally resonant aesthetic that combined timeless beauty with a strong message of inclusivity and humanity.

With Pierpaolo Picciolli and Maria Grazia Chiuri in 2013.

Balenciaga, on the other hand, has long stood for radical innovation, architectural silhouettes, and a provocative spirit. Founded by Cristóbal Balenciaga — a true master of form and construction — the house has never been afraid to challenge norms and push boundaries. It is today owned by the Kering Group.

Balenciaga S/S 2025 Campaign 

Pierpaolo’s arrival marks a fascinating and bold shift. It’s not only a meeting of two strong creative identities — it’s also likely a turning point for Balenciaga itself. After years of dominating the streetwear conversation under the leadership of Demna, who is heading to Gucci, and pushing shock-value aesthetics, this move could signal the end of that era. With Piccioli, we may see a return to emotion, craftsmanship, and elegance — a more refined and soulful vision of luxury.

I believe this is a powerful, forward-thinking decision and an exciting new chapter for both Piccioli and the house of Balenciaga.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and © Balenciaga
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There’s something magical about the first warm days of the year — feeling the sun on your skin, seeing nature bloom, and simply enjoying the beauty around us. Switzerland has been especially stunning lately, and I’m thankful for every moment here before heading back to Istanbul for work. Even after challenging times, spring reminds us that new beginnings are always possible.

My look: Double-breasted leather coat in pink, and mid-rise skinny jeans, both by Valentino, Speed 2.0 knitted sneakers, and slap bracelet, both by Balenciaga, 2020 mini classic flap belt bag, large classic flap bag in caviar leather, chain earrings with logo, embellished sunglasses, and black and pink N°5 tank top (Look 34, S/S 2021), Denim Hotfix Embellished Overshirt, all by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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Neon green – loud, unapologetic, and totally on trend.
Wearing bold colors isn’t out of the ordinary for me, and this neon green look was made for the spotlight. It’s a shade that’s been dominating the runways and street style lately – energetic, confident, and impossible to ignore. Exactly the vibe I wanted to bring to the jury panel.

Worn on MY STYLE ROCKS Season 2 Episode 37.

My look: Sequined feather-trimmed midi dress by David Koma, patent leather knee-high boots by Paris Texas, vintage floral clutch by Balenciaga, silver-tone crystal clip earrings, and crystal-embellished braided choker, both by Alessandra Rich.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @kazmva0
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Channeling major girl scout energy—but make it fashion. Think badges of style, camp-core chic, and a playful mix of utility meets cuteness. This look is all about earning your fashion merit badge, one accessory at a time.

Worn on MY STYLE ROCKS season 2 episode 4.

My look: Poplin shirt with scarf  by Miu Miu, Natté mini skirt and Monolith 55mm leather loafers, all by Prada, silver-tone crystal clip earrings by Alessandra Rich, Alva bow embellished velvet barrette by Jennifer Behr, and crystal-embellished Hourglass tote bag by Balenciaga.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @kazmva0
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In the world of fashion, rose is more than just a color — it’s a whisper of romance, a gentle blush of elegance. Delicate yet bold, rose tones evoke the softness of blooming petals and the timeless allure of sophistication, making every moment feel like a love letter written in style.

As worn in Episode 25 of MY STYLE ROCKS Season 2.

My look: Cropped brushed wool-blend jacket by Dries Van Noten, embellished stretch-mesh mini dress, and Petal embellished satin tote, both by Clio Peppiatt, crystal-embellished clip-on earrings by Alessandra Rich, loafer pumps Aevitas by Versace, pink sunglasses by Balenciaga, and floral tights by Calzedonia.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @kazmva0
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Georgian designer Demna is leaving Balenciaga after a decade to become Gucci’s new Artistic Director, starting early July 2025.

During a surprise press conference at the Parisian headquarters of parent company Kering, the newly instated Gucci CEO Stefano Cantino said: «I have always admired Demna’s creative approach, that is both unique and powerful. His ability to honor the iconic legacy of a brand while embracing a modern sensibility is extraordinary. With Gucci’s strengthened foundations as a springboard, Demna will lead the House towards renewed fashion authority and enduring cultural relevance.»

At the Balenciaga F/W 24 show in Paris wearing Demna’s designs head to toe.

Both Gucci and Balenciaga, where Demna has been creative director for nearly 10 years, are owned by Kering. At Balenciaga, Demna has redefined modern luxury, earning global recognition and cementing his authority on the industry.

Founded in Florence in 1921, Gucci is renowned for eclectic and contemporary creations that represent the pinnacle of Italian craftsmanship and are unsurpassed in quality, attention to detail and imaginative design.

Demna said: «I am truly excited to join the Gucci family. It is an honor to contribute to a House that I deeply respect and have long admired. I look forward to writing together with Stefano and the whole team a new chapter of Gucci’s amazing story.»

Gucci hasn’t set a date for Demna’s debut show, but it isn’t expected to come before September. That means Gucci’s next big moment on the fashion calendar — a May 15th cruise show in Florence, the brand’s birthplace — will be another studio-designed affair.

LoL, Sandra

Photo Credit: © Demna, © Sandra Bauknecht
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Be happy, be bright, be you – style is a way to say who you are without words! I am wishing you a happy weekend with some good vibes from my happy place, London.

My look: Pink allover logo belted coat by Balenciaga, tie-detailed animal-print lamé mini dress, Loens leather knee boots, and Lecce leather belt, all by Isabel Marant, silver-tone crystal clip earrings by Alessandra Rich, and Cassandre small suede shoulder bag by Saint Laurent.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Felicia Sewerinsson @feliciasewerinsson
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Yesterday’s gala episode of MY STYLE ROCKS had the topic FUSTURISTIC. The big finale is coming up soon and our candidates really created some amazing looks. Personally speaking, I dived into my closet and found some cool pieces to create this visionary style. Even that the heels don’t look like it, I can promise you they are super comfortable.

My look: Printed bodysuit by Balmain, Stage 100mm knitted boots , and silver wrap around sunglasses, both by Balenciaga, resin clutch with bowling ball inserts by Alexander McQueen, and silver-tone crystal clip earrings by Alessandra Rich.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @kazmva0
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Last week’s gala episode of MY STYLE ROCKS was all about the 90s. A decade that I lived and that was all about bold style, laid-back vibes, and iconic trends that still influence fashion today! From grunge flannels, fuzzy hats and ripped jeans to hip-hop baggy fits and sleek minimalist slip dresses, the decade was a perfect mix of cool and carefree. Think platform shoes, Doc Martens, chokers, crop tops, checked mini skirts and tracksuits—whether inspired by Clueless, Friends, or your favorite boy band, 90s fashion was effortlessly fun and full of personality!

As you know, I have been collecting fashion for more than 30 years. For this episode I dived into my closet and looked for pieces that I actually wore in the 90s. I had designed the bag along with the matching T-shirts during my time at Sonia Rykiel in Paris. Originally created for the people backstage at the S/S 1999 show, Sonia decided to produce them for the actual collection as she liked them a lot.

My look: Appliquéd printed cotton-jersey sweatshirt by Dolce & Gabbana, neon pink cropped top (S/S 1995), and black hot pants (S/S 2022), both by CHANEL, checked mini skirt (S/S 1998) by D&G, printed wool bag (S/S 1999) by Sonia Rykiel, triangle-logo scrunchie, crystal scrunchie, and fuzzy hat in lilac, all by Prada, leather, faux pearl and crystal choker by Alessandra Rich, 90’s vintage sunglasses by Gucci, creoles by Dior, black tights with crystals by Calzedonia, and Strike leather ankle boots by Balenciaga.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @aydogmus.ea
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Do not forget … it’s fashion and it’s for my museum. I have never had so many heads turning around than the day I walked through the streets of London in these shoes. I love pieces that are avantgarde, unexpected and different. Therefore I had to get Alexander McQueen‘s hoof boots and Balenciaga‘s super cool denim top, which you can easily restyle with a pair of jeans. Both are from the F/W 2024 collections, to shop them, click on the highlighted product description below.

My look: Knitted black cardigan, matching scarf, and hat, all by Stella McCartney, denim pants top (F/W 2024 Look 44) by Balenciaga, VLogo Moon embellished woven shoulder bag by Valentino, hoof booties (F/W 2024 Look 16) by Alexander McQueen, and diamond rose pendant necklace by Piaget.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Felicia Sewerinsson @feliciasewerinsson
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