Jimmy Choo x Jean Paul Gaultier

I am obsessed with the Jimmy Choo x Jean Paul Gaultier collaboration featuring global pop star Kylie Minogue in the campaign. Fusing two creative identities and being born from a shared vision of femininity, empowerment and confidence, the capsule collection is co-designed by Jimmy Choo’s creative director Sandra Choi and JPG’s creative director, Florence Tétier. It revisits archive pieces from the Parisian fashion house, adapting them to contemporary tastes.

«Fashion for me has always been about collaboration with like-minded creatives, and pure personal self-expression. Jean Paul Gaultier and Jimmy Choo have both been part of my fashion journey, and I’m thrilled to work with both of them to celebrate this exceptional collection,» says Kylie Minogue of the partnership. «It’s our collective histories fusing, to create something fresh and new,» she adds.

Acting as an evolution of the longstanding relationship between Kylie and both brands, the campaign follows a long line of made-to-measure Gaultier looks and custom Jimmy Choo shoes. The campaign sees Kylie showcasing the new footwear collection and transforming into a modern-day pin-up.

My favorite pair of the collection: The black leather wedge pumps show both the icons of the cities that are home to the brands, the Eiffeltower and Big Ben, in their plexiglass heels.

For Jimmy Choo, the collaboration follows its recent team-up with Sailor Moon creator Naoko Takeuchi and for JPG, the collection follows its recent release with the corset-loving London ready-to-wear label KNWLS, alongside news of its next guest designer: Simone Rocha.

TO SHOP JIMMY CHOO x JEAN PAUL GAULTIER ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Jimmy Choo / JPG
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You Have My Heart

The heart shape as a motif is impossible to ignore in fashion right now. Already in June last year, I posted about the heart shaped bag trend. Fans of the heart bag may not intrinsically realize it, but the motif speaks to a psychological comfort during a time when things are still incredibly uncertain.

CHANEL debuted pastel quilted flap bags in the shape of chunky hearts on the S/S 2022 runway and they immediately sold out everywhere. I found one for you pre-owned in great condition, that is 15% off right now, please see below.

2022 Heart diamond-quilted crossbody bag by CHANEL Pre-Owned

The shape of a heart is so beautiful, but also gives good energy and in some ways, hopefully, spreads love. Valentine’s Day is coming up and I thought you might get inspired. However heart shaped bags aren’t just for Valentine’s Day and weddings, just saying… happy shopping!

LoL, Sandra

Le Cagole Heart mini studded crinkled-leather shoulder bag by Balenciaga

Pearl Heart medium bag by Simone Rocha

Heart-shaped biker crossbody bag by Moschino
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Heart shaped shoulder bag by Blumarine

Metal Devotion crystal-embellished bag by Dolce & Gabbana

L’Amour Petite Cœur crystal-embellished clutch bagicon by Judith Leiber

Le Coeur heart-shaped leather shoulder bagicon by Alaïa

Heart pillow clutch by Alexander Wang

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands, © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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My Look: Unstoppable Weekend

Are you ready for an unstoppable weekend? Then I recommend a visit to The Penthouse at the newly opened Five Zurich to party until the early hours. What to wear? Cutouts and some sparkles will make heads turn. Enjoy being the queen of the night.

My look: Padded-shoulder single-breasted wool jacket, and cutout wool high-rise straight pants, both by Mugler, silver-tone crystal body chainicon by Area, Cameo embellished earrings by Simone Rocha, leather platform pumps by Gucci, and Hourglass crystal-embellished bag by Balenciaga.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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My Look: Little Princess

I just love this look, it makes me feel like a little princess, but in a very modern way. Comfortable, yet head turning, this pink ensemble combined with patent-leather sneakers captures an ethereal mood. I felt so good in it, that while I was wearing it for a lunch appointment in Zurich, I decided to fly spontaneously to London without anything… stay tuned for my full report!

My look: Sweater with logo embroidery and silk faille sleeves, gathered faille midi skirticon, pink patent leather sneakers, all by Alexander McQueenDionysus small two-tone leather shoulder bag by Gucci,  floral pearl drop earrings by Simone RochaLady Excalibur watch by Roger Dubuisbow and crystal-embellished wrap braceleticon by Miu Miu, and crystal-embellished sunglasses by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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My Look: It’s Easter Time

Happy Easter weekend to everyone! I am wishing you a successful Easter egg hunt. I found my treasure already. This beautiful Simone Rocha egg-shaped bag is for me a true «objet d’art» – it will also look so striking standing on my coffee table when I am not using it.

My look: Double-breasted knit coat with floral pinwhite blouse with long wide sleeves, A-line mini wrap skirt, suit vest with chain detail, all by Louis Vuitton, burgundy embellished wool-felt haticon by Philip Treacy, acrylic and faux pearl-embellished leather toteicon by Simone Rocha, and burgundy mesh boots by Dior.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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My Look: Power Shoulders

One jacket, two looks. Power shoulders have always made a strong statement in fashion and they work with pants and skirts. The strong shoulder is most associated with the 80s, but it first had a heyday in the 30s and 40s, as a sign of women’s liberation, when the female suit was primarily birthed. I love this versatile Balenciaga jacket that comes with a built-in skirt. One piece, many options and styles … statement fashion for the woman of the new 20s.

My look: Oversized plaid wool jacket with built-in skirt detail (2017) by Balenciaga, cropped high-rise wide-leg jeans by Stella McCartney, cashmere circles appliqué scarf and logo striped oversized silk shirt, both by Prada, New Abby tweed sailor cap by Maison Michel, JW-charm gold-plated choker by JW Anderson, bean embellished leather toteicon by Simone Rocha, Vita suede platform sandalsicon by Amina Muaddi, Lady Excalibur watch by Roger Dubuis, and leopard face mask by Dolce & Gabbana.

LoL, Sandra

 Photos: © David Biedert Photography
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My Look: Cheesy

I know I got your attention at «cheesy». Fashion should be fun and not be taken too seriously! This yellow Prada sweater got the internet talking and let’s be frank, it resembles Swiss cheese that is known for its distinctive appearance with several holes. However, I find it very fashion-forward and extremely cool especially when worn together with the matching black open-knit sweater. Being proudly Swiss, I love cheese and I adore this Prada look so much. It was actually my favorite from the S/S 2021 collection and it is also very «Pantone Color of the Year 2021». With Central European weather going crazy at the moment, it is the perfect outfit at the moment.

In case your wondering about the placement of the bow brooch… one hole is placed a little unfortunate revealing a little too much in movement.

My look: Distressed logo-intarsia sweater in yellowicon, distressed open-weave wool sweater in black, belted pleated mohair-blend skirticontwo-tone slingback pumps, and Re-Nylon scrunchie, all by PradaConstance 24 in Evercolor Lime with palladium hardware by Hermès, satin bow brooch by CHANEL, rose diamond ring by PiagetCarrera Automatic Chronograph by TAG HeuerCameo embellished earrings, and faux pearl and crystal barrette, both by Simone Rocha.

LoL, Sandra

iconPhotos: © David Biedert Photography
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Say «I Do» in Simone Rocha

Due to the current pandemic, the wedding-world has been a turmoil. So many celebrations have been cancelled or rescheduled including mine. However, it hasn’t been all so bad, as brides-to-be have far more time than usual to concentrate on what they will be wearing on their big day.

As soon as social restrictions are lifted, nuptials will return. This will hopefully happen latest this summer. In case you are looking for the perfect wedding dress, have a look at Simone Rocha‘s first bridal capsule collection, that has launched exclusively at MYTHERESA.

«The idea behind this bridal collection is to translate signatures from the S/S21 collection into the world of bridal through fabrications, embellishments and embroideries,» the London-based Irish designer designer shared on Instagram. Known for her distinctive romantic designs, her debut bridal collection consists of eight ethereal dresses that feature her signature voluminous silhouettes and pearls. From lace organza, tulle and silk taffeta in petal pink, pastel yellow and classical white, to accessories including faux pearl headbands, earrings and hair clips, Rocha has included everything a modern, romantic bride could wish for. It is the perfect translation of some of her signature looks from her S/S 2021 collection into wedding-worthy pieces.

Last year, a large amount of cancelled weddings have been rescheduled for 2021. However, those who couldn’t wait, gave rise to starting more intimate ceremonies that are shared on Zoom for example, which leads also.  That in turn leads to brides-to-be are searching for more low-key style options. Unlike large, statement styles, Rocha’s dresses are comfortable and easy-to-wear, and transferrable to other occasions. A worthy investment, indeed.

TO SHOP THE EXCLUSIVE SIMONE ROCHA BRIDAL COLLECTION AT MYTHERESA, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

And don’t forget… tomorrow Simone Rocha’s highly anticipated H&M collaboration will hit the shelves. Probably a great way to experience Simone Rocha’s world before walking down the aisle…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Simone Rocha / Mytheresa
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Simone Rocha x H&M

Designer collaborations have had their time. Today, it is more trendy that two brands team up together, such as The North Face x Gucci, Jimmy Choo x Marine Serre and many more. However, H&M, the Swedish retailer, that made designer collaborations fashionable, is sticking to its concept, not as loud as before, but definitely something for the fashion-loving customer around the globe, as for the first time, the Simone Rocha universe is opened up and extended to everyone. Meet the London-based Irish designer and get a glimpse of what this year’s collaboration will bring.

Fashion Designer Simone Rocha

History and heritage. Details and fabrications. Family and community. The many facets of womanhood. For fashion designer Simone Rocha, born in Dublin in 1986, her work and collections are a tribute to what she holds dear. She began her career as part of the talent hub Fashion East, where her take on modern beauty won praise as she reclaimed ‘girlish’ elements — florals, embellishments, collars, pearls — in a nuanced manner. Since debuting at London Fashion Week in 2010, she has become internationally renowned for her intricate and meticulously-researched collections, always with a nod to her own heritage: Ireland and Hong Kong.

In creating the collection for H&M, Rocha spent time reflecting on and revisiting her brand’s archive, combing her past collections and carefully reworking beloved pieces into unexpected new designs that feel right for now.

«To be honest, it was really emotional going through all the pieces — it was a wonderful chance to reflect on seasons I was especially proud of, and to revisit collections that felt like milestones, and little gems of ideas that we maybe didn’t push as far as we wanted to the first-time round. The archive is so important to the way I work as a designer anyway. We are not a brand that abandons ideas each season — we often look back on past propositions or continue to evolve a silhouette, or shape,» says Rocha.

The Simone Rocha x H&M collection includes her signature womenswear alongside menswear and kidswear, marking the first time she has offered a wardrobe for the whole family. All the garments are designed to be in conversation with each other. So, what to expect from this year’s awaited collaboration? Delicate tulle dresses, tartan tailoring, beaded shirting, cable knits, outerwear such as trench coats and signature accessories like sparkling jewellery and pearl-embellished shoes. The entire range comes in Simone Rocha’s identifiable and poetic colour palette that mixes cream, pink, red and black. The majority of the Simone Rocha x HM women’s collection goes up to size EUR L=44/46 and UK L=16/18 and US XL=48/50.

«My approach at every stage of the design process was to remember that for some this would be an introduction to Simone Rocha, a chance to enjoy the brand for the first time, while for others this will be a chance to recall the history of a brand that they have followed for a while. Maybe they will be able to buy a version of a piece that they missed the first time, or a piece they always wanted but didn’t get. Through H&M, they will be able to access a new, timeless, special piece to mix in with their existing items from past runway collections. I really hope there is something for everyone — every woman, every guy, the whole family,» says Rocha.

Family is of utmost importance to Rocha, as well as her community of friends and collaborators. Therefore, the Simone Rocha x H&M story is brought to life by the people who surround and inspire her. To name a few: stylist, collaborator and close friend Robbie Spencer, model and friend Tess McMillan, sisters Adwoa and Kesewa Aboah, activist and artist — and acclaimed actress Daisy Edgar-Jones.

«Any time that I’m on set with Simone, or behind the scenes at a show, you just feel this certain warmth — there’s never any stress, and you can tell that she fills her work space with people who really inspire her in her everyday life, and that’s what brings this certain sense of community, and certain sense of ease. I always just feel so comfortable, because you are surrounded by people who are just really fun to be around. I have worked with her for four seasons now, and every time I’m just so excited to see everyone — to see the designers, the stylist, all the people who help me get dressed, it’s the same faces. It’s a really, really amazing community, truly. And I always look forward to laughing and catching up,» says McMillan.

The Simone Rocha x H&M collection launches 11 March.
I love the campaign… reminds me so much of a Jo Malone ad. To see me wearing Simone Rocha, have a look here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © H&M

International Women’s Day

After a year like no other, supporting and celebrating feels more important than ever for NET-A-PORTER that showcase their #PowerToChange commitment by collaborating with incredible female designers to create an exclusive INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY EDITicon, reflecting the designers’ personal interpretation of female empowerment. 13 exclusive pieces across ready-to-wear, lifestyle and jewelry, with 100 percent of the NET-A-PORTER profits donated to Women for Women International, helping women living in war-torn countries rebuild their lives and creating lasting change in their communities.

To showcase these 13 exclusive fabulous pieces, some incredible women have been invited to wear these T-shirts with pride, among them supermodel, mother, writer and activist Coco Rocha, Interior designer, culinary storyteller and entertaining expert Athena Calderone and Model, student and co-author of Mixed Feelings, Naomi Shimada, just to name a few.

The exclusive collection consists of nine T-shirts, designed by Stella McCartney, Emilia Wickstead, Westman Atelier, Tove, Anya Hindmarch, Jennifer Fisher, Simone Rocha, Amina Muaddi and Ninety Percent; jewelry by Roxanne Assoulin and Alighieri, and homeware by Anissa Kermiche.

Model and LGBTQ+ campaigner Teddy Quinlivan sports Westman Atelier’s FORCE FEMININE’ T-shirt.

«Nothing is more powerful than women connecting, inspiring and advocating for
each other which is why I’m so honored to be supporting Women for Women International. We have to invest in those who are held back by social, cultural and economic inequality. Women are the driving force of change.» – Gucci Westman / Wetsman Atelier

Author, writer and founder of Gal-Dem – the award-winning media company committed to sharing the perspectives of people of color from marginalized communities – Liv Little is wearing the Tove ‘Womanhood’ embroidered T-shirticon.

In addition to the donation of 100 percent of profits from the sales within this collection, for every public post tagged #PowerToChange, @womenforwomen and @netaporter on TikTok or Instagram, between now to March 8, 2021, NET-A-PORTER will donate $1 to Women for Women International.  I encourage you to take part in this, so please do share your posts and pledges!

TO SHOP THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY EDIT, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
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LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Net-à-Porter
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.