Sandra‘s Closet

Ballon Rouge by Gassmann holds a special place in my heart. I used to shop there for my daughter Anouk when she was little, and it is still the most beautiful children’s store in Zurich. Before the summer break, AERIN invited me to an afternoon on the boutique’s hidden terrace, beautifully decorated and the perfect setting to dive into the world of AERIN fragrances.

My favorite is Amber Musk. On its own, it feels like being wrapped in the softest cashmere, more of a winter scent really, but layered with Mediterranean Honeysuckle it turns into a wonderful summer fragrance. The highlight: we had our bottles engraved and painted the scents in watercolors, which I enjoyed far too much.

The dress code called for pastels, so I wore Simone Rocha, paired with shoes that made quite the splash: a mix of kawaii and 90s goth girl. Ballet-inspired shoes are everywhere right now, but Simone Rocha was pioneering the look years ago.

My look: Layered tulle dress, egg leather-trimmed clutch, embellished platform track sole ballerina sneakers in nude, and silver-tone, faux pearl and crystal earrings, all by Simone Rocha, and logo-plaque cat-eye sunglasses by Fendi.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Simon Ohneiser
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Greetings from Greece! Whitewashed houses, blue domes and the Aegean below: Santorini is the most beautiful backdrop I can imagine. For my walk through Oia I chose a colourful look that stands out against all that white and blue.

The wind turned my hair into a style of its own, so I simply let it fly. A little movement makes every picture better. If you travel to Santorini, pack colour. The island rewards every bold piece you bring.

My look: Open-back puff-sleeve cropped blouse in pink by Isabel Marant, paisley print midi length skirt by Dior, tassel necklace by Etro, Chanel 19 bag in rose leather by CHANEL, Oyster Perpetual 36 with a turquoise blue dial by Rolex, GG0597S cat eye sunglasses by Gucci, and woven leather sandals in brown by Fendi.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Patou Partout. The French Maison, founded in 1914, has form when it comes to short skirts. Jean Patou dressed Suzanne Lenglen for the courts in the 1920s and is credited with inventing the tennis skirt, the pleated one that scandalised the crowds and set women free in the same move. LVMH woke the house up again in 2018 and that lightness is still there.

I truly love the combination with the iconic volume top in turquoise stripes, a color you cannot go wrong with. Aqua colors ran straight through the Cruise 2027 collections.

Which brings me to the bags. My Fendi Baguette in Tiffany Blue, the 2022 limited edition created for the 25th anniversary of Silvia Venturini Fendi’s 1997 icon, along with the miniature version in silk, belong to my special items in my closet.

My look: Iconic volume top, and bloomer mini skirt, both by Patou, Loubi Bee Alta 130 leather platform sandals by Christian Louboutin, Impatiens drop earrings in turquoise by Oscar de la Renta, crystal-embellished cat-eye acetate sunglasses by Fendi, limited edition 2022 «Tiffany Blue» leather Baguette shoulder bag with strap, and limited edition 2022 nano Baguette charm bag in «Tiffany Blue» silk with sterling silver hardware, both by Fendi x Tiffany & Co.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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A typical morning in my Mayfair apartment, wrapped in a comfy Balmain tracksuit, I had one of those quiet moments that remind me how much I love being at home. There’s something about starting the day in comfort while still feeling put together, effortless, but intentional.

Fun fact about me: I can give up almost anything. Alcohol? Easy. Sugar? No problem. But coffee? That’s my guilty pleasure, and I own it. Coffee is non-negotiable. It’s the very first thing I need in the morning, before conversations, before plans, before the world starts asking questions. Until that first sip, I’m on pause. Coffee isn’t just a drink for me, it’s a ritual, a mood, and honestly… my favorite part of the day.

My look: Button-embellished quilted jersey sweatshirt, and matching button-embellished cotton-jersey track pants, both by Balmain, logo-embellished leather biker boots by Fendi, hand belt in black and antique gold by Khaite, Anagram embroidered ribbed-knit tank by Loewe, Kelly Cut clutch in black Swift leather with gold hardware by Hermès, Coco Crush bracelet in yellow gold, Coco Crush necklace in beige gold with diamonds, and Pétales de Camélia ring in yellow gold with diamond, all by CHANEL, bracelets by Cartier, and gold necklace with charms by Foundrae.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Felicia Sewerinsson @feliciasewerinsson
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What a whirlwind of events! While filming in Istanbul with little time to spare, the fashion world delivered a major surprise: John Galliano announced his departure from Maison Margiela after a decade at the helm of the OTB-owned brand.

John Galliano

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Galliano shared the news, writing, «Today is the day I say goodbye to Maison Margiela… I am forever grateful for this safe space to create and build a new family that supports me with courage and dignity.» He extended his thanks to his atelier team and Renzo Rosso, OTB’s chairman.

The move marks the end of an era for the house, originally established by the famously reclusive Martin Margiela. The brand gave Galliano the opportunity to rebuild his career and reputation following his controversial exit from Dior in 2011. Over the years, Galliano transformed Margiela with his signature theatricality, camp-infused creations, and innovative, deconstructed designs. He also championed gender-fluid fashion and elevated the brand’s «Artisanal» line to unprecedented levels of craftsmanship.

Me in the Maison Margiela Haute Couture studio after the amazing show in the beginning of the year, which is just next to Galliano’s office.

Under his leadership, Margiela saw significant commercial success, with a 22% rise in sales in 2023, even as the broader luxury market faced challenges. His legacy was solidified with a sensational January 2024 show in Paris, where historical couture-inspired characters roamed a haunting, mist-filled space under a bridge, complete with striking, mask-like makeup by Pat McGrath. Galliano leaves behind a storied chapter in Margiela’s history.

Galliano did not elaborate on his future plans, instead saying that «when the time is right, all will be revealed.»

Matthieu Blazy for CHANEL

I was hoping that he would be appointed at CHANEL but today the French Maison announced Matthieu Blazy as its new creative director, succeeding Virginie Viard, who departed in June. Blazy, formerly the creative head at Bottega Veneta, is recognized for his craftsmanship and innovative designs. His appointment is anticipated to infuse fresh energy into the French Maison’s iconic aesthetic. Blazy is expected to present his inaugural collection for CHANEL during Paris Fashion Week in October 2025. 

Louise Trotter for Bottega Veneta

Meanwhile in the past hours, Louise Trotter has been announced as the new creative director of Bottega Veneta, taking over from Matthieu Blazy. Known for her transformative work at brands like Lacoste and Carven, Trotter brings a refined design aesthetic and a strong sense of cultural awareness to the role. She is set to start at the luxury house in January 2025, making her the only woman currently leading a brand under Kering’s ownership. This appointment highlights her unique vision and the potential for a fresh chapter at Bottega Veneta.

One of the conglomerate’s biggest fashion brands, Fendi, has yet to name a new womenswear designer after Kim Jones stepped down from the role in October. I guess that Galliano will head up there. These significant shifts reflect the dynamic nature of the fashion industry, with Galliano, Blazy and Trotter poised to shape new creative directions in their respective roles.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands / © Sandra Bauknecht
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Another designer to make a career move…, Fendi artistic director Kim Jones is leaving the Italian fashion house but will stay on at Dior Homme, LVMH said in a statement, the latest in a series of designer shuffles at big name labels as the industry adjusts to a downturn.

A new creative organisation for the label will be announced «in due time,» the company said. One of the industry’s highest profile designers, Jones succeeded Karl Lagerfeld at the label in 2020, designing ready-to-wear and couture collections.

Demi Moore walking the Fendi Couture runway in January 2021.

Described as «the hardest working in man in fashion» by ELLE UK’s editor-in-chief Kenya Hunt for a December 2023 profile, Jones has previously held the top job at Louis Vuitton (Men’s) having risen up the ranks of the industry by way of non-profit incubator Fashion East.

Last week, LVMH named Michel Rider to succeed Hedi Slimane at Celine, and in September named Sarah Burton to take over creative direction at Givenchy.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Fendi
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No sweet tooth goes unsatisfied with this crazy collaboration. FENDI x Chupa Chups® is all about carrying your favorite lollipop in a fancy leather holder around your neck as a necklace or thanks to the adjustable strap attached to a bag.

Presented by Kim Jones at his Fendi F/W 2024 ready-to-wear show in Milan, the innovative and amusing design was created to enclose the exclusive FENDI x Chupa Chups® lollipop. Made of soft leather with details that recall the iconic Selleria technique and embellished with a metal FF logo, a magnetic closure, the adjustable, knotted strap allows you to attach the charm to any accessory, to customize every outfit with a special touch.
The charm includes an exclusive FENDI x Chupa Chups® box that contains five limited edition Cacao-Vanilla lollipops, a symbolic tribute to the five Fendi sisters.

This bag charm must-have will surely be seen among many fashion lovers. Treat yourself here!

The necklace is available here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Fendi
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Puente Romano Beach Resort has partnered with luxury fashion house FENDI to welcome the world’s first FENDI gastronomic experience and a complete takeover of La Plaza – the vibrant heart of one of the Mediterranean’s most sought-after destinations.

La Plaza at Puente Romano Beach Resort has been completely remodeled and personalized by FENDI with lively colors and the iconic stripes of the Pequin logo-non-logo. The emblematic stripes are reinterpreted in a summer version featuring yellow and beige hues, dress up textiles, cushions, and sun umbrellas, reflecting the Maison’s heritage and codes. This year’s partnership follows the success of last year’s award-winning beach club FENDI x Puente Romano.

For the first time ever, FENDI x La Plaza becomes a day-to-night epicenter, offering a culinary journey starting from lunchtime and lasting long after the sun sets where guests can dine at an impressive choice of restaurants including Nobu Marbella, COYA, Cipriani, Gaia, and the legendary El Pimpi Marbella, recently. As the evening draws in, FENDI La Plaza is adorned in dim lights and candles, where the timeless aesthetic of the Maison meets the eclectic energy of Puente Romano Beach Resort for a gastronomic adventure.

FENDI La Plaza also welcomes the world’s first FENDI gastronomic experience housed inside a resort, where guests can expect a selection of dishes including the FENDI Lobster Club – a unique take on a club sandwich, a FENDI cheeseburger, a truffle rigatoni and burrata served with grilled peaches and prosciutto. Presenting a unique cocktail menu, guests can enjoy the FENDI Perché No, inspired by the fashion house’s new perfume launching later this summer with notes of leather and Italian citrus freshness. The FENDI Baguette Paloma mixes crisp grapefruit and lime with the smoothness of white tequila and the Peekaboo Margarita blends Volcán tequila with the zest of lime and a unique helium salt cloud, for a visual that’s as tantalizing as the taste.

Adjacent to the Puente Romano Beach Resort entrance and on the main promenade, FENDI presents its new pop-up store showcasing key items of the new S/S 2024 Collection together with iconic pieces such as Peekaboo and Baguette bags. Upon entering, guests are welcomed by a luxurious and soft aesthetics: materials are carefully selected and combined with perspective cuts, while furniture elements are reminiscent of the arches of Ancient Roman architecture. The new FENDI pop-up store in Puente Romano Beach Resort is one of the few selected doors revealing the brand-new family of fragrances presented by the Maison, which recently unveiled a complete collection of perfumes.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Puente Romano / Fendi
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Fun times ahead! Back to London next week, I packed my beloved Fendi boots and this super practical cashmere coat that actually feels like a cardigan. The dress is from Valentino’s Black Tie F/W 2023 collection and one of my season favorites.

My look: Leisure belted cable-knit wool and cashmere-blend cardigan by Max Mara, wool and silk-blend halterneck mini dress by Valentino, logo-embellished leather biker boots by Fendi, grooved cabochon clip earrings by Saint Laurent, My LV chain pilot sunglasses by Louis Vuitton, and Kelly Cut clutch in black Swift leather with gold hardware by Hermès.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @georgiashane
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Since the collaboration between Fendi and Tiffany & Co. hit the runway for Resort 2023, fashionistas around the globe have been craving for those exclusive re-editions of the iconic Baguette bag in the signature Tiffany Blue™, that is embellished with a Return to Tiffany™ circular bag pendant and a sterling silver label engraved with «The Tiffany Baguette».

However no need to cry if you missed out on the opportunity to order one. There are plenty of stunning turquoise bags on the market to accompany you through the summer and the next years to come.

LoL, Sandra

Turquoise logo embossed medium Baguette bag by Fendi

Small Lola crossbody bag by Burberry

Small First clutch bag by Fendi

Goya small puffer bag by Loewe

Nano Speedy by Louis Vuitton

Cassette small intrecciato leather shoulder bag by Bottega Veneta

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands
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