Sandra‘s Closet

As you know, I was with Montblanc in Los Angeles recently. One spot that is fun to visit is Madame Tussauds Hollywood Wax Museum which is located right next to the famous Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and the Walk of Fame.

I jumped in the middle of all the touristy action and went a little crazy. But I mean where on earth can you in one day…

…get a close-up with Steven Spielberg…

…sit next to Tom Hanks in Forrest Gump…

…dance with Madonna…

…chat with Jack Nicholson…

… make fun with Jim Carrey…

…get a photo with Angelina Jolie…

…see Michael Jackson again…

…hold hands with Robin Williams…

…swing your hips with Beyoncé Knowles…

…be so close to Hugh Jackman…

…hang from the ceiling next to Spiderman…

…and get to film with Alfred Hitchcock?

My look: Two-layered top by Gucci, distressed gray jeans by Dolce & Gabbana, embellished sandals by Prada, bangles by Chanel, necklace and sunglasses, both by Roberto Cavalli and Elsie bag by Chloé.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

I love coming back from my travels to some nice surprises. This week, two arrivals have truly made me very happy.

When Prada unveiled its gourmand caramel scent named CANDY in 2011, I have become immediately a huge fan. Therefore I was over the moon about the house’s newest flanker version that has arrived on my doorstep this week: PRADA CANDY L’EAU. Like the original, the new version is also signed by perfumer Daniela Andrier. Seductive and playful in one, the new fragrance  is modified with notes of citruses and flowers.

ORIENTAL VANILLA
Top notes: Italian citruses
Middle notes: Sweet pea
Base notes: Benzoin, white musk and caramel (The Prada Candy trilogy).

Prada Candy L’Eau EdT CHF 74.00 (30ml) – CHF 99.00 (50ml) – CHF 127.00 (80ml)
Available in Switzerland Mid April 2013.

White pumps are so hot! And the amazing Janis leather pumps by Saint Laurent will be among my summer favorites.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Prada, © Sandra Bauknecht

While doing my tour around Los Angeles, I had to stop at one of my favourite shops in town: Opening Ceremony.

My look: Printed stretch-satin jersey top, striped low-rise skinny jeans, both by Balmain, crystal cat’s-eye sunglasses by Prada, flat tote bag by Saint Laurent, patent leather jeweled heel lace-up oxfords by Miu Miu and 4810 hoop earrings in pink gold with diamonds by Montblanc, dotted socks by Fogal.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

This was my outfit that I wore to the Pre-Oscar Charity Brunch hosted by Montblanc and UNICEF to celebrate the launch of their new ‘Signature For Good 2013‘ initiative with special guest Hilary Swank at Hotel Bel-Air Saturday morning.

Of course, the sun was shining in Los Angeles but temperatures were quite chilly so that I was very thankful to have brought something warm.

My look: Pale pink mink fur coat with flower intarsia, black satin bag with floral embellishments, both by Prada,dress with leather and lace appliqué, bow-embellished patent-leather pumps, both by Saint Laurent, 4810 hoop earrings in pink gold with diamonds, Princess Grace de Monaco limited edition (8 pieces) watch, both by Montblanc.

Stay tuned for the upcoming post of the brunch…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht,
Photos of me (collage): © Jonathan Leibson/Getty Images for Montblanc

Being in Los Angeles for this one night that Hollywood waits for every year is truly amazing. I have enjoyed every second of being here. The 2013 Oscars mark the first year that the famous ceremony is no longer officially called the Academy Awards. The Dolby Theatre (formerly the Kodak Theatre) in Hollywood was home to a red carpet filled with amazing gowns.

Here is my best dressed list:

Comprehensive victory: Jennifer Lawrence, who wore a Dior Couture gown combined with a long Chopard necklace draped down her back, won the Best Actress 2013 Oscars for her work in “Silver Linings Playbook” and was the most stunning appearance on the red carpet.

Glamourous perfection: Amanda Seyfried in a stunning custom Alexander McQueen gown, Roger Vivier shoes, and Lorraine Schwartz jewels.

So pretty: Amy Adams in Oscar de la Renta

The biggest fashion trends on the 2013 Oscars red carpet were neutral hues and dramatic dark metallics. White was THE colour like last year. Trains had a major moment. Bright hues were rarely seen, but berry shades made a big entrance as spotted on Jennifer Garner for example. When it comes to Hollywood glitz and glamour, the Oscars never disappoints.

A radiant winner: Anne Hathaway in Prada and Tiffany & Co. jewlery

British singer Adele performed her Academy Award winning song Skyfall (‘Best Original Song’) at last night’s ceremony for the first time wearing a black silk dress with degradé hand-embroidered crystals by Burberry.

Actress Jennifer Garner and actor-director Ben Affleck arrive at the Oscars, both in Gucci.

And the Oscar goes to…

Best Picture: “Argo.”
Actor: Daniel Day-Lewis, “Lincoln.”
Actress: Jennifer Lawrence, “Silver Linings Playbook.”
Supporting Actor: Christoph Waltz, “Django Unchained.”
Supporting Actress: Anne Hathaway, “Les Miserables.”
Directing: Ang Lee, “Life of Pi.”
Foreign Language Film: “Amour.”

Stay tuned for many more posts coming up from Los Angeles…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Getty Images and Sandra Bauknecht, Courtesy of Burberry, ©Joe Klamar/AFP

Miuccia Prada used Japanese elements, draped Duchesse satin and came up with a contemporary kimono style, while paying homage to Courrèges with ’60 silhouettes and red daisies. All mixed together, the Prada S/S 2013 collection has a very nostalgic feel while of course looking absolutely new and modern. That is something only Mrs Prada can come up with.

Photos taken in my favourite coat in my favourite Prada store in the world, ZURICH!

My beloved Prada accessories for S/S 2013.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Prada, © Sandra Bauknecht

The Dior event in Paris last week was truly amazing. The Dior team spoilt me constantly during my stay with wonderful birthday surprises. How creative they are was clear when we went for dinner Thursday night. Held at the ice rink of the Plaza Athénée which is located at the inner courtyard of the famous Parisian hotel, we were welcomed by a Swiss chalet atmosphere and a cute Saint Bernard dog.

View of the ice rink from the top

As I have done many dinners on the ice in St. Moritz before, I knew exactly what to wear in order not to get cold.
My look: Mink coat by Prada, fur boots by Prada Sport, scarf, bag and bracelet, all by Anselm Reyle for Dior, Diorette ring by Dior Haute Joaillerie and fur hat by Marc Jacobs.

Lovely Montasar Dumas (Dior Paris) and Huda Heidi Kattan with me.

From left to right: Me, Sofie Valkiers and Gala Gonzalez

Raclette prepared by three Michelin star chef Alain Ducasse was a big surprise. Who would have expected having a Swiss traditional dish in Paris?! Very funny, the two Swiss ladies, Manuela and my humble self, were shoveling the yummy cheese in our mouth, whereas most of the other bloggers were a little overwhelmed by the heavy food.

Manuela Pastore (Dior Switzerland) explained enthusiastically how to eat raclette.

Pumpkin soup as a starter

Spotted – the cutest iPhone cover ever, available here.

A surprise birthday dessert. Thank you, Dior, for this wonderful experience!
Stay tuned for all the photos taken during the day for the house’s new beauty launches.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Since last season, the slipper shoe has been on every fashionista’s style radar and there is no end in sight. Prada has just launched a stunning capsule collection that is screaming “BUY ME”. The new Prada slippers feature a range of distinctive details and novel combinations.

The classic form with leather sole is developed in multiple variations, each with a powerful identity. Here are five proposals:

Slipper in iridescent velvet with embroidery in satin thread.

Slipper in three-color sequins. The embroidery recalls iconic Prada flowers and lozenges.

Slipper in brushed leather with metal studs and hand stitched paillettes.

Slipper in patent leather with plex embroidery and hand stitched paillettes.

Slipper in two-color patent leather.

Those beautiful slippers are in stores now. Prices range from CHF 410.- to CHF 860.-.
See you at Prada…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Prada

When money’s no object and your other half has everything he can wish for, finding a perfect Christmas present might be quite challenging. Only the most unique or outrageous for your loved one will obviously do, so here’s my pick of the ridiculously extravagant and special, part fantasy and all fun, from a ten thousand dollar backgammon set to a bag filled with garden tools.

Technology and men, you cannot go wrong with that! This limited edition cell phone was designed by Lapo Elkann, heir to Italy’s Fiat Automotive empire, and the creator of one of the most modern labels today, Italia Independent, in collaboration with Vertu. 
The phone boasts with the vibrant blue motif of Italia Independent and offers all the luxury concierge services Vertu is known for.
Constellation Blue by Vertu – CHF 9.700

For the nature lover:
Bag filled with garden tools by Prada, CHF 1990.-

This might be the perfect addition for your gardener to enjoy a snack outside:
3-piece picnic cutlery set by Hermès – CHF 1400.-

Luxury gaming is the perfect gift for the holiday season.
Chess set boxed in the house’s iconic Saffiano leather by Prada – CHF 3240.-

Hermès is also in the game and proposes, of course, something truly luxurious:
Backgammon set by Hermès – CHF 11050.-
The very exclusive piece is competing with …

… Prada’s playful approach at a more accessible price.
Backgammon set and Nine Men’s Morris, both by Prada, each CHF 2490.-

Miuccia’s “It-bag” for all lovers of this sport:
Golf bag – CHF 1240.- and tees – CHF 200.-, both by Prada

A very exclusive scent might always be a good choice. Let me introduce you to the new Essenze by Ermenegildo Zegna collection, comprising of five signature fragrances, each dedicated to one raw material, Italian Bergamot, Sicilian Mandarin, Javanese Patchouli, Indonesian Oud and Florentine Iris.

Available exclusively in Ermenegildo Zegna Boutiques (Switzerland, Singapore, Korea, Japan, Italy, UK, France, Germany, Austria, North America and Mexico).
In Zurich also sold at Jelmoli. Each scent (125ml) – CHF 260.-

For the true connoisseur: Your beloved one will love you for this leather travel case and spray, that will surely become his portable business trip companion. Not only is it the perfect size to slide into his briefcase, but, at 30ml, it’s way beneath the 100ml liquid limit on flights.
Acqua di Parma Essenza Leather Travel Spray – CHF 120.- (30ml)

Or how about this collector’s item designed by Silvia Fendi: A quintessentially case in black crocodile embossed leather for the Italian house’s signature scent, a limited edition object of luxury and desire bearing the emblematic Fendi codes. 
In Switzerland only available at the Fendi Boutique in Geneva.
Fan di FENDI Pour Homme Eau de Toilette, Limited Edition 2012 – CHF 337.-

Your world-travelling husband and boyfriend will thank you forever! Sleepless nights and drowsy mornings have become a common experience in today’s life. This bracelet with it’s Natural Frequency Technology helps wearers with a good and restful sleep and you might want to steal it off his wrist …
Sleep Bracelet with Natural Frequency Technology by Philip Stein, CHF 360.-
Available at Swiss Shop Duty Free, in Zurich at Max Affolter Uhren & Bijouterie, Limmatquai.

Who says I don’t cater to all tastes, here is an offbeat way to spice up your beloved man’s pen collection. You just have to choose if he is more the gun or sword type…
Pens, each CHF 330.- and document cases, each CHF 490.-, both by Prada

I hope that you have found some inspirations!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Hermès, Prada, Vertu, Philip Stein, Ermenegildo Zegna, Acqua di Parma

After the Louis Vuitton S/S 2013 show during Paris Fashion Week, I spotted Natasha Zinko, a London-based designer of Russian origin that graduated with a BA Honours recognition for Jewelry Design at Central St Martins. She opened her first store this year in the heart of London’s Mayfair district at 46 Maddox Street.

Her jewelry creations, like these skeleton earrings, are bold and very fashion forward. She also designs a ready-to-wear line called Abrakadabra. Of course, she caught my eye immediately because of her stunning Mary Katrantzou dress. Her friend wore head-to-toe Prada from the F/W 2012 collection. If you are interested in my look, click here for the previous post.

Natasha’s look: Typewriter dress by Mary Katrantzou (F/W 2012), embroidered book clutch by Olympia Le-Tan, shoes and skeleton earrings by Natasha Zinko.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht