Sandra‘s Closet

After landing from Istanbul, I went directly to the opening reception of «Hermès in the Making». This outstanding event offers the possibility to meet the artisans behind Hermès’ sustainable craftsmanship. Until November 14, 2024 , you can discover how the French Maison craft objects designed to last and be repaired, to be used and passed down through generations.

Since its founding in 1837, six generations of artisans have safeguarded and nurtured their historic know-how in the Hermès workshops. This heritage is a living, flourishing and constantly evolving treasure trove of artisanal skills. Hermès in the Making brings craftspeople from nearly ten of the house’s métiers to offer a sneak-peek into their expert techniques and exclusive know-how. Their work echoes the heart of Hermès: preserving and developing savoir-faire – expertise which is often linked to a historical tradition or region – a quest for quality, durability and innovation, and respect for the surrounding environments.

With lovely Yvonne Leuthard, Press & Influence Manager Hermès Switzerland 

This 8-day public event features live demonstrations, workshops, interactive activities, and films spread throughout the space. You can customize your visit according to your curiosity and interests.

Lichthalle Maag, Hardbrücke
Zahnradstrasse 22
8005 ZURICH / Switzerland

Until November 14th
(Closed on Monday 11th)
10am – 7pm
Free admission

With my dear friends, Alexandra Kruse, my favorite unicorn and astrologist to the right, and photographer Elena Steness, who captures the best moments as you can see below: 

It was a beautiful evening where we spotted the most amazing bags among the visitors. I can absolutely recommend visiting the exhibition, especially as it has free admission. You just need to book a slot in advance here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Elena Steness
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#HermesInTheMaking

Art or not?! This questions touches on the debate wether fashion is considered art and if it should be collected the same way art is. I have seen fashion as art all my life and have been collecting for over 30 years. Today, it shows that I was right. High-fashion items have appreciated in value over time, much like art, making them valuable collectibles, . If you visit the Sotheby’s Salon at Bucherer, you will find many treasures that are hard to get and that have increased in value. It is a shopping haven for all fashion lovers and collectors!

My look: Oversized double-breasted two-tone wool-blend crepe blazer, matching pleated wool-blend crepe shorts, and studded Tan-Go platform pumps, all by Valentino, lingerie shirt by Schiaparelli, Faubourg Birkin 20 in So Black matte alligator with black hardware by Hermès, and yellow diamonds pear shape earrings (25.31 carat fancy deep yellow, VS1, 25.33 carat fancy brownish Yellow, VVS1, 4.8 carat white diamonds, H-I, with GIA certificates), available at The Sotheby’s Salon.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Sanjeev Velmurugan
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Tracing equestrian motifs on a sparkling white or intense black dial, rose gold and diamonds intertwine on the Arceau Grand Tralala brides et mors watch.

This precious 34 mm-diameter case reinterprets the design of the Grand Tralala silk scarf designed by French artist Virginie Jamin. A tribute to the Hermès equestrian tradition, the colourful bridles/ and gleaming bits evoke the prestigious harnesses worn by the Royal Hungarian Bodyguard in the 19th century.

Created by Henri d’Origny in 1978, the Arceau watch embodies the Hermès style: its understated and timeless round shape set on a «stirrup» highlights a singular nature composed of subtle details. Dotted with 64 diamonds and topped by a gemset crown, its rose gold case frames a spangled white lacquered or deep black dial.

On the dial of the Arceau Grand Tralala, bridles and bits intertwine in the brilliance of rose gold and 110 diamonds, forming a graphic yet dainty decoration. Enlivened by a small bit-shaped seconds hand, the model is driven by a Manufacture Hermès H1912 movement revealed through the sapphire crystal case-back. Crafted in the Hermès Horloger workshops, a smooth chantilly or black alligator strap matches the dial colour.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hermès
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The forever scarves are heritage scarves, authentic and alive, that honor the original design in a unique and emblematic color. Neither reworked nor redesigned, they are presented in all their simplicity, true to the original drawing of the artist. This year there are four designs being honored.
This essential Hermès accessory complements any outfit. It can be worn many ways – around your neck, as a top, at the waist or as a headscarf!

COUVERTURES ET TENUES DE JOUR Forever Scarf 90

Designed by Jacques Eudel (1974)
Crème / Rouge H / Bleu / Multicolore

This emblematic scarf is part of the history of the House, whose primary inspiration has always been the horse. It offers us a beautiful glimpse of equestrian coquetry. Elegantly framed by leather bridles, ten stepping horses are having a fitting as their schedule, their stable, their wait or their presentation requires a different and adapted accoutrement. A «French-style», «American-style» or «net-style» blanket, or a chain mail camel or camarillo, Jacques Eudel’s colorful brushstrokes are so realistic and precise that the most difficult task will be to choose one.

JUNGLE LOVE Forever Scarf 90

Design by Robert Dallet (2000)
Marine / Vert / Orange

Just like these two leopards, Robert Dallet had no equal when it came to magnifying – with a continuous concern for truth – such incomparable coats, the strength of their features and the power of these feline bodies. As a collaborator of the Natural Museum of Natural History in Paris and a staunch naturalist, his work is a vibrant and necessary tribute zo the wonders of the wild. Here, he illustrates a page of love that has become an emblematic scarf in the House’s heritage. At the heart of the jungle, the lovers observe each other, a courtship performed under the curious eye of parrots, butterflies and galagos surrounding them.

EPERON D’OR Forever Scarf 90

Designed by Henri d’Origny (1974)
Caramel / Crème / Or

At first glance, it is a skillfully orchestrated composition of leather and metal, loops and circles intertwined in complex harmony – a rosette in the form of a scarf. But as the eye focuses it discerns each of the elements that give this movement its rhythm in a repetition that is as soothing as it is intriguing. An urge draws us to follow this mysterious network with no beginning and no end. Spurs, stirrups, rein hardware and riding crops with three rings of gold: the curves and straight lines of horse tack used by Cadre Noir master riders of France’s prestigious Saumur riding school established in the 19th century.

BRIDES DE GALA Forever Scarf 90 

Designed by Hugo Grygkar (1957)
Noir / Crème / Gold

In 1957, Robert Dumas worked with Hugo Grygkar. He placed two bridles face to face on the floor, and immediately it became clear that the composition was perfect, a scarf with unparalleled simplicity came to life. This was followed by the talent of a precise and subtle hand, which is so dear to the House. This design reflects the first love of a House of saddlers, its attraction to the beautiful, useful, and durable, as well as the enduring legacy of a title whose sounds evoke, as Jean-Louis Dumas once noted, «dazzling ceremonial garments». The interlaced harnesses feature pieces from the Émile Hermès collection. Objects sometimes have a truly wonderful destiny.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and © Hermès
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Greetings from South Africa! Sea Point is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Cape Town, and it’s easy to see why. The neighbourhood offers stunning views of the ocean and the famous Lion’s Head, as well as some fantastic restaurants and pubs. Being an affluent neighbourhood, it is situated between Signal Hill and the Atlantic Ocean with the popular promenade on the edge of the shore stretching all the way into Mouille Point passed Green Point. Here you see me at Queen’s Beach, which is more secluded than those beneath the main stretch of the promenade right after I arrived in my travel outfit. Cozy, comfy, yet stylish – ready to conquer the rest of the day! Do you sea my point?!

My look: Zipped GG-appliqué jacket, GG logo print knitted top in blue, Rhyton logo-print leather sneakers, and cat-eye marbled-acetate sunglasses, all by Gucci, black wide drawstring pants, (Look 33 Pre-collection Summer 2021) and wallet on chain, both by CHANEL, «Coaching» Forever Scarf 90 by Hermès, Tank Française 25.05mm medium 18-karat gold and stainless steel watch by Cartier, and Coco Crush bracelet in yellow gold, all by CHANEL Fine Jewellery.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Dream more and make it happen. For me, anything is possible if I dress accordingly. The right outfit can make me feel confident, comfortable, and ready to conquer the world. It’s like wearing my personality or the attitude I would like to express on the outside.

Wearing a suit and a tie, combined with a pair of glasses can convey a sense of professionalism, confidence and sophistication. And can you see … modern angels are wearing their wings on their heels.

My look: Antiope double-breasted wool-blend blazer, Dovere wool-blend shirt, Ondina wool-blend shorts, and Giulia wool-blend tie, all by Max Mara, wide bow hair clip by Jennifer Behr, glasses by Tom Ford, Tribale earrings by Dior, logo tights by CHANEL, Pégasus heels by Hermès, Da Vinci laptop bag by Louis Vuitton x Jeff Koons Masters Collection.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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Designed by Henri d’Origny in 1978, the timeless Arceau watch revels in playing the transformation game. Epitomising Hermès style, its round case with stirrup-shaped lugs welcomes several highly creative and demanding artistic crafts. Enhanced with leather marquetry, silk threads and miniature painting, the Arceau Mon Premier Galop watch thus unites a diverse range of skills. Its singular aesthetic reveals a joyful interpretation of the Mon Premier Galop shawl by artist Tong Ren.

Fascinated by traditional basketry work, the Chinese-born designer combines simple lines, colour blocks and refined decorative-trimming motifs. His drawing depicts a horse moving across the sand, accompanied by a fluttering butterfly and lit up by a mischievous sun playing with the clouds. Its faltering gait imbued with a sense of fragility and daring evokes the moment of grace of those first steps of horseback.

This magical moment comes to life on the dial of the Arceau Mon Premier Galop watch with its 30-piece jigsaw-like nature uniting several skills deeply cherished by Hermès. The sky and the radiant sun are crafted in enamel, a meticulous technique that involves applying a multitude of enamel layers with a brush and drying them in a kiln to guarantee unique colours and contrasts.

Standing out against this radiant blue background, the horse composed of silk threads along with fine tesserae in various shades of leather that are first trimmed to just 0.5 mm thick. Individually assembled on the dial, the leather and silk threads form a delicate, colourful decor enlivened by a tiny hand-painted gold mobile applique.

Issued in a 24-piece limited edition, the Arceau Mon Premier Galop watch in white gold set with 82 diamonds beats to the rhythm of the Manufacture Hermès H1912 movement. The sapphire case-back reveals the finishes and the «sprinkling of Hs» motif adorning the bridges and oscillating weight. Adding a final touch, a Zephyr blue Swift calfskin strap accentuates the play on light and textures adorning the watch face.

I am loving it!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hermès
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In order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline, and effort. Sometimes, it feels just wonderful to be spoilt. This can be a memorable experience you’ll be able to look back on fondly, a love letter, someone taking good care of you or a precious item that you will treasure for a lifetime and hand over to the next generation. As we know today, some items are truly investment pieces.

In terms of those must-haves, I would wish for something from this list below … just putting it out in the universe as my birthday is coming up. You never know what the fairy birthday godmother might bring … if you need help, just ask for Jean-Gilles, Antinea, Faby or Martin :-)! And now it is time for celebrations.

LoL, Sandra

Panthère de Cartier ring by Cartier

LOVE bracelet, 18K rose gold with diamonds by Cartier

Matte Alligator Birkin Faubourg 20 handbag by Hermès

Birkin Disco Faubourg 20 bag by Hermès

Mini Vert Yucca Epsom Kelly 20 by Hermès

Gilbert & George Lady Dior Art Bag #8 by Dior

Day Date 36 Oyster Everose gold with diamonds and rainbow dial by Rolex

Day Date 36 Oyster in yellow gold with diamonds and turquoise dial by Rolex

Oyster Perpetual Day Date 36 Puzzle by Rolex

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands
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Adorned with textured mother-of-pearl, midnight blue lacquer and sparkling diamonds, the Arceau Petite Lune watch in gem-set steel extends an invitation to embark a journey beneath the starry canopy of space.

The Arceau watch designed by Henri d’Origny in 1978 combines understatement with creativity in a round shape resting on a stirrup, a nod to the brand’s equestrian roots. Its steel case featuring asymmetrical lugs and a gem-set crown is adorned with 70 diamonds using a cut-down setting technique that highlights the diamonds’ many facets. This setting frames a celestial dial that captures the gaze and propels it into a star-studded night sky.

In a play on chiaroscuro effects, the textured mother-of-pearl reveals its nuances and reliefs in shades of blue lacquer. The moon appears in an iridescent glow, while a constellation of seven diamonds lights up the surrounding darkness. Swept over by slender leaf-shaped hands, this starlit universe is brought to life by the Manufacture Hermès H1837 movement powering the hours and minutes as well as the moon-phase functions appearing between 10 and 11 o’clock. The sapphire crystal caseback reveals the circular-grained, snailed and satin-brushed finishes, as well as the ‘sprinkling of Hs’ motif adorning the bridges and oscillating weight. This timepiece with its fascinating deep hues is fitted with a sapphire-blue alligator strap crafted in accordance with the brand’s saddlery and leather goods expertise.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hermès
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I started the New Year well with an amazing trip to Bahrain. Situated on the Persian Gulf between Qatar and the northeastern coast of Saudi Arabia, to which it is connected by the King Fahd Causeway, it comprises a small archipelago made up of 50 natural islands and an additional 33 artificial islands, centered on Bahrain Island which makes up around 83 per cent of the country’s landmass. The capital and largest city is Manama. Here I took these pictures while strolling around. I love the juxtaposition of modernity and tradition.

In terms of dress code, it is respectful to cover your shoulders and knees. I recommend wearing a scarf in case you want to visit a religious place.

My look: Broderie anglaise belted top, and matching broderie anglaise linen flared pants, both by Zimmermann, 23P light blue quilted caviar leather small classic double flap bag, and matching 23P caviar quilted mini chain belt bag, and sunglasses, all by CHANEL, Chevaloscope scarf 90 in rose/blue/multicolore by Hermès, and Dellena 100 leather wedge sandals by Jimmy Choo.

LoL, Sandra

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