Sandra‘s Closet

Yesterday in London was one of those days that remind me why I love this city so much.

TABAYER

Two invitations, both about jewelry, both in the hands of houses that understand beauty as something more than surface. First, lunch at Hide in Mayfair with Tabayer hosted by The Floorr.

With the loveliest hosts Lupe Puerta (The Floorr) and Nyree Tanielian

Founded in 2021 by Nigora Tokhtabayeva, it is one of the most quietly compelling jewelry brands to emerge in recent years. Each piece is rooted in the ancient symbolism of protection, reinterpreted through a modernist, sculptural lens and crafted in Italy using Fairmined certified gold and ethically sourced diamonds. The signature Oera collection draws on Inanna’s Knot, a Mesopotamian symbol of fertility and guardianship, distilled into forms that feel both elemental and entirely of the moment. Jewelry that carries weight, in the most beautiful sense of the word.

With my dear friend Lupe Puerta, founder of The Floorr.

With my dear friend Anouschka who flew in from Frankfurt for the occasion.

BVLGARI

Lupe and I on the steps of the Bvlgari store on New Bond Street.

Later in the evening, I headed to Bvlgari for a truly special night filled with champagne, whisky tasting, and inspiring conversations. The event celebrated the latest creations presented during Watches and Wonders, including the stunning new Bvlgari Octo Finissimo timepiece, which once again showcased the brand’s incredible innovation and elegance.

With Catherine Eberle-Devaux, Bvlgari Watch Communication Director, and Dr. Bill Lumsden, who heads up Glenmorangie’s innovations and has been with the company for more than 25 years. I had met him before at an event in Zurich and it was lovely to see him again.

But beyond the jewelry and watches, evenings like these are always about something even more meaningful to me,  reconnecting with friends in London, sharing conversations, exchanging ideas, and simply enjoying the atmosphere of being surrounded by beautiful things and inspiring people.

With lovely Akram from the Bvlgari London team. We have been knowing each other from Valentino.

It was one of those rare days that felt effortless from beginning to end, and I went to bed feeling genuinely grateful.

LoL, Sandra

With fashion designer Olga Vilshenko.

Beautiful Bvlgari handbags designed by Mary Katrantzou.

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

I’m very proud to have contributed once again to the Weltwoche Gift Guide, a beautifully curated selection where a variety of well-known personalities share their personal recommendations. And because I certainly don’t want to keep my tips from you, I’m sharing an English summary of my favorites here as well. Enjoy a little sparkle, a little travel dreaming, and a touch of everyday luxury.

A Touch of Luxury for Your Hair

Le Parfum by Hair Rituel by Sisley is like an invisible silk scarf that gently wraps around your hair. It smells as if you’ve just conquered the world—not the kitchen. One spritz and any trace of cooking, smoke, or daily hustle simply disappears.

What remains is shine, lightness, and that subtle, confident scent that quietly says: I’m not in a rush, I just smell fabulous.

Available at sisley-paris.ch, CHF 101.00 (100ml)

Infinity Collection by ONTOO – Luxury That Truly Adds Up

Who says bespoke craftsmanship is only for couture? At ONTOO, you can create jewelry that suits your life and your budget. Rose, white, or yellow gold? Prefer sapphire instead of diamond? Everything is possible.

The pieces by Swiss designer Martina Baeriswyl Holzach are light enough for sports yet elegant enough for an evening out. Jewelry that adapts to its wearer, not the other way around.

Prices upon request: ontoo.ch

London Calling – A Gift With the Curtain Up

For those who love collecting experiences rather than things: the legendary Brown’s Hotel in Mayfair now offers three new Forte Suites, each inspired by a personality who shaped the neighborhood, composer Muzio Clementi, soprano Clara Dow, and Dame Vera Lynn.

Imagine this: after an evening at the theatre, returning to the Brown’s Hotel for a glass of bubbly in an Emperador marble bathroom, the night drifting into the melody of «A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square.» A gift that feels like a movie scene.

The new Forte Suites start at £3,500 per night.
More information here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and Courtesy of the Brands
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promised.

Back in London in my hood… my apartment is located in the center of Mayfair, everything I love, from my favorite restaurants to the best shops, is in walking distance. I love strolling through the streets, running errands in style and having a quick coffee. As you can see in my smile, London is my absolute happy place.

My look: Cropped embellished cotton-blend tweed jacket, and Vichy button-embellished cotton-blend tweed mini skirt, both by Balmain, leather wrap bra top by Alaïa, Aevitas pointy stud leather platform pumps by Versace, Coco Crush necklace in beige gold with diamonds by CHANEL Fine Jewelry, necklace and charms by Foundrae, metal glass pearls leather earrings, leather bracelet, and mini rectangle flap bag in pearly lambskin with black-tone metal, all by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

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

My apartment in London is just across from one of my favorite hotels in the city, the Claridge’s Hotel. Each year, the hotel collaborates with a fashion house to decorate their Christmas Tree. This year’s installation by Louis Vuitton brings together two illustrious names who have long celebrated the Art of Travel, and crossed paths throughout their respective histories after both being founded in 1854.

This magnificent sculptural creation is immersed within two large open, emblematic wardrobe trunks towering on top of each other at the height of 5.2 metres. Each signature trunk is adorned with Claridge’s travel stickers of yesteryear and an oversized Louis Vuitton luggage tag.

Exuding a festive charm, the tree is composed of 15 vertically placed chrome trunks of varying heights that tower to create the silhouette of a traditional Christmas tree. Scattered atop the silver trunks and amidst the snowy landscape of the tree are 21 Louis Vuitton Vivienne mascots, all found within the hotel’s distinguished black and white marbled lobby.

The hotel’s Louis Vuitton trunk envelopes the magical Claridge’s Christmas Tree, just as the Maison’s iconic Malle Vestiaire or «Wardrobe Trunk», a hard-sided case created in 1875, was dedicated to transporting one’s most personal and precious effects.

«What an honour it is to welcome such a legendary house as Louis Vuitton to design our Claridge’s Christmas Tree this year. Christmas is the most magical time of year for us here at the hotel and we look forward to welcoming guests and seeing visitors immerse themselves in Louis Vuitton’s world.» – Claridge’s General Manager Paul Jackson

With my Louis Vuitton outfit, I couldn’t have blended in better … all details coming up shortly.

LoL, Sandra

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

Last week, I was invited by Christian Louboutin to a Red Night at The Connaught in London Mayfair. The evening started with drinks at the brand’s flagship store on Mount Street. As my plane was delayed, I missed that part and went straight to the party that was filled with many treats and a special tarot session.

Among fashion designers, Christian Louboutin stands out as one of the most influential, thanks to his ability to transform extraordinary shoes into true icons, all thanks to his distinctive signature: the red sole.

The dress code said a touch of red and for me that not only included the soles of my shoes but also a little touch of red on my jacket. The red sole of Louboutin shoes has become a symbol of luxury, style, and status, representing a fashion statement that doesn’t go unnoticed.

With beautiful Anna Lange, Christian Louboutin Store Manager Mount Street, at the event.

My gorgeous bag from the Flamencaba collection.

Spoilt to the fullest with this beautiful red quilt.

This holiday season, Christian Louboutin has a huge range of fantastic footwear, must-have accessories, and stocking fillers. I attached you some of my favorites available now below.

TO SHOP CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN ONLINE, PLEASE CLICK HERE.

LoL, Sandra

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

Fashion designer Paul Smith and my favorite place to stay in London, the Brown’s Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel in Mayfair, joined forces and unveiled the Sir Paul Smith Suite.
Designed by Paul himself in collaboration with Olga Polizzi, Director of Design at Rocco Forte Hotels, the new suite features a range of custom and vintage furniture, hand-picked artworks, brand collaborations and soft furnishings from the debut Paul Smith home collection.

Drawing on Brown’s Hotel’s history as a favoured residence for literary greats, the suite is designed as a space not only for rest and relaxation, but to spark inspiration and creativity through art and interesting objects, with every detail of the room, from the rugs to the individual art works carefully considered.

The suite features furniture and art that resonates with the designer and his eclectic taste. Several pieces can be found in Paul’s office at his Covent Garden HQ, such as Christopher Simon Sykes’ impressive photograph of Chatsworth House library and, notably, his 1970s leather desk chair by Mario Bellini. As another personal touch, Paul has also selected a small library of art and design books for the room.

Paul Smith says: «Being asked to design a space for such an iconic Mayfair institution is a great privilege – and I’ve had a great deal of fun in the process! Just like Browns does with its rooms, we design every Paul Smith shop differently to celebrate the area’s individuality, which is just one of the reasons the project appealed to me. On a more personal level, I’m so pleased we’ve been able to include objects that inspire me personally and I hope, in turn, they’ll inspire the suite’s guests.»

Several of Paul Smith’s notable collaborations feature heavily in the room, including sofas, tables and leather goods from his recent ‘Everyday Life’ collection with Italian luxury furniture company DePadova; Type 75 lamps from the longstanding partnership with British lighting brand Anglepoise; and checked wool blankets designed by Paul for design company Maharam.

The partnership came about naturally, through Rocco Forte Hotels’ Director of Design Olga Polizzi, who is responsible for the design of each of the individual rooms at Brown’s Hotel and is a long-time visitor to Paul Smith’s Albemarle Street shop.

Further references to the Albemarle Street flagship shop, which is located just metres away from the hotel, are dotted about the room. They include custom Paul Smith + The Rug Company rugs and a Maharam headboard, both of which feature a geometric pattern inspired by the building’s iconic iron façade.

Uniquely quirky details, such as the banana door handles, the fire ‘dogs’ (which have been custom made to resemble Homer, Paul’s first canine shopkeeper), a robot figurine made from a vintage camera, and the striped fireplace tiles, are abundant in the room, a reflection of Paul’s ‘classic with a twist’ philosophy and his trademark whimsical sense of humour.

The Paul Smith Suite starts at £5,500, to book, please click here for more information.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Brown’s Hotel
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise!

«My London patients are among the most discerning in the world when it comes to their skincare knowledge, forever searching for the latest innovations and ingredients to benefit their skin. I love London, and it has long felt like a second home to me. I am thrilled to be officially bringing the #SturmGlow to Mayfair and hope to excite my patients with new inventions, technologies and treatments that have never been seen before!» – Dr. Barbara Sturm

In London, I went to Dr. Barbara Sturm’s London flagship to enjoy one of her most sought-after treatments. The flagship London Spa & Boutique is located on Mayfair’s iconic Mount Street and set over two floors. It is designed in collaboration with architect Tobias Freytag, who also designed her LA and Dusseldorf spa locations. With each new location, Dr. Sturm aims to reflect the lifestyle of the customer she is serving and the culture that surrounds the store.

This will serve as a place of skincare discovery and advanced-scientific innovations where you can enjoy the full suite of Dr. Sturm’s most sought-after treatments.

The Spa & Boutique design exhibits minimalist, modern architectural elements, including a curved, mirrored wall, a sleek, white seating area, the original pave flooring, and a new ‘Discovery Table’ made from Italian green onyx. The Spa features two Express Facial Rooms, where shorter treatments are offered to time-conscious customers, as well as four, fully-fitted treatment rooms deploying Dr Sturm’s inventions and facial protocols and the latest in anti-aging skin technology, such as Myolift microcurrent.

A new, medically-advanced skincare collection only offered in-spa after personal consultation – will also be available at the London flagship. It will also be the first of Dr. Sturm’s Boutiques & Spas to offer exclusive body treatments – details of which will be announced soon.

When I arrived, a wonderful expert aesthetician guided me through to find the best products / treatment  to address my skin concerns. Personally speaking after one month of fashion weeks, I was aiming for that #SturmGlow. My skin was dry and dull and definitely needed some hydration and a glow boost. The famous Signature #SturmGlow Facial was created around Barbara’s skincare philosophy to deliver hydration, boost skin barrier function, soothe signs of irritation and improve the overall skin health and skin matrix. The facial incorporates techniques created in her German clinic for cleansing, exfoliating, extractions, and an anti-aging lymphatic massage. It was a truly amazing facial. My facial also include Dr. Sturm’s Signature Anti-Aging Massage; a unique combination of massage techniques which help increase blood and oxygen flow and tone and define the facial muscles for an instant, youthful-looking complexion.

Long and short-chain Hyaluronic Acid molecules in the so-called Hyaluronic Ampoule were infused into my skin and provided intensive hydration at both upper and deeper skin layers.

Catering to my personal needs, my facialist added red light therapy which is a fantastic treatment. The restorative power of safe, natural light LEDs also has a therapeutic effect on your body and mind. The use of natural light LEDs is non-invasive and painless, with clinically-documented benefits, including diminishing the appearance of age spots, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as making skin feel firmer and more elastic.

The Sturm Glow after my facial. No make-up!

The 90 min facial was amazing. It instantly smoothed fine lines, reduced puffiness, lifted and defined the cheekbones and jawline and gave my skin a youthful glow. At Dr. Barbara Sturm’s spa, the result of the appointment is a routine tailored specifically to your skincare needs. To book, please contact the Spa & Boutique.

OPENING TIMES
MONDAY – SATURDAY: 10AM-7PM
SUNDAY: 12PM-6PM

ADDRESS
125 MOUNT STREET
LONDON, W1K 3NS

CONTACT DETAILS

+44 207 959 0840

TO SHOP DR. BARBARA STURM, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

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

My avid readers know how much I love London. Personally speaking, a weekend trip to the British metropole is one of my favorite things to do, as the city offers everything you can dream of, culture, shopping, nightlife, and great restaurants.

Happy me at The Lanesborough wearing Mary Katrantzou .

One of my favorite hotels to stay is THE LANESBOROUGH that belongs to the Oetker Collection. Perfectly positioned between Knightsbridge and Mayfair, just a short walk from Harrods, Harvey Nichols and London’s exclusive Sloane Street, this grand mansion overlooking Hyde Park Corner has undergone an inspired renovation by the famed interior designer Alberto Pinto. The hotel is home to 93 luxurious suites and bedrooms, Michelin-starred Céleste restaurant, the vibrant Library Bar and Garden Room and the magnificent Lanesborough Club & Spa.

About the latter I would like to tell you a lot more as this is one of the many reasons to stay at this hotel! It is a true sanctuary of health and relaxation in the city and was crowned the World’s Best New Hotel Spa 2017 at the World Spa Awards™. This private 1600 m² members’ fitness and health clubs and spa with its divine interior, is offering members and hotel guests access to internationally recognised experts in the fields of fitness, beauty and wellness.

The spa’s hydro pool area

A must for all spa lovers: the steam room and sauna.

Beautifully designed: the ladies’ changing room

A sanctuary of relaxation in the city: the private area for spa members

The so-called «Painting Room» serves for manicures and pedicures.

You can enjoy some of the finest spa therapy treatments with products from much-loved spa and beauty brands ila and La Prairie, as well as the expertise of facial and beauty expert Anastasia Achilleos. Good to know is that for non-members, day passes can also be combined with treatment bookings for access to the exceptional facilities.

The restaurant and bar of the Lanesborough Club & Spa

Moreover, The Lanesborough Club & Spa has its own restaurant, offering all-day healthy dining, developed by Michelin-starred Chefs Eric Frechon and Executive Chef Florian Favario in collaboration with Clean & Lean nutritional guidance from Bodyism founder James Duigan. High-protein snacks, smoothies and juices are available throughout the day, and all personal training sessions will finish with a bespoke blended drink to complement each members’ workout.

The hotel’s exquisite rooms and suites, are all uniquely refurbished with stylish, luxurious interiors and responsive technology seamlessly interwoven, including in-room tablets and powerful WiFi. Each room, not only suites, has a round-the-clock, dedicated butler service so that you can be assured that your needs are well served.

The seven-bedroom Royal Suite is a residence fit for a king, queen or head of state.

If you love food, you will enjoy the hotel’s Michelin-starred Céleste restaurant (see photo below) with its richly decorated dining room in light blue and yellow hues, naturally illuminated during the day by a domed glass roof.

Beautiful ambiance at the Michelin-starred Céleste restaurant

Moreover, I recommend the award-winning afternoon tea service, the seductive Library Bar and for the cigar aficionados among you one of London’s best cigar and Cognac lounges – The Garden Room. You see that THE LANESBOROUGH caters to all tastes…

I love having breakfast in the room… the first thing that makes my day…

One of my favorites in London is tea time which is served at the hotel’s «Withdrawing Room».

I am a big fan and hope that you will enjoy your stay at THE LANESBOROUGH as much as I do!

And if you become a fan, I recommend getting this beautiful Globe Trotter The Lanesborough Suitcase, that is only available at Eden Being.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of The Lanesborough Hotel and © Sandra Bauknecht

ROJA DOVE

The famous haute perfumer shares his tips for the best places to visit in Great Britain’s capital. He commutes between London and Brighton.

Your favourite city in the world: 
LONDON
There is no better place on earth.

Your favourite restaurant: 
THE WOLSELEY, 160 Piccadilly London, +44 20 7499 6996.

Your favourite hotel: 
CLARIDGE’S, 49 Brook Street, Mayfair, London,  +44 20 7629 8860.

Your favourite shop: HARRODS
Be sure to visit the Roja Dove Haute Parfumerie on the fifth floor.

Your favourite bar or nightclub: 
THE COBURG BAR @ The Connaught Hotel in Mayfair Carlos Place, London, +44 20  74997070.
I am not so into nightclubs, because I love to be able to talk to my friends. A good drink at a bar is much better. A destination for genuine bar aficionados.

Your favourite sightseeing spot: THE RIVER RESTAURANT @ The Savoy Hotel Strand, London, +44 20 7836 4343
From there you have a fantastic view of the river themse, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament.

Your favourite park: ST. JAMES PARK

The scent of London: WOOD and LEATHER.
I actually did a scent once inspired by the city of London. It is a male city, not like Paris which is female. The gentlemen’s clubs rule the city. The architecture is clean and straight. So you see dark woods and lots of leather.

Thank you, Roja, for sharing your insider scoop on London with us!

LoL, Sandra