Sandra‘s Closet

Today, is August 1st, Swiss National Day. It has been an official national holiday since 1994, although the day had been suggested for the celebration of the foundation of the Swiss Confederacy as early as 1889. This day was chosen because August 1st 1291 was the date on which three Alpine cantons swore the oath of confederation, an act which later came to be regarded as the foundation of Switzerland.

I have been living in Switzerland now for over eleven years and I feel absolutely at home. I love the mountains, the lake of Zurich, the people, the food and of course the Swiss textiles which are famous around the world. Therefore I thought that I dedicate today to the «Swiss Dots».

«Dotted Swiss», also known as «Swiss Dot», is a sheer cotton fabric that is embellished with small dots. The dots can be applied in a number of different ways and colors. The design is said to have originated around 1750 in St. Gallen, Switzerland, which emerged as a textile center in the 15th century.

I love this fabric especially in white on long maxi dresses. In combination with red accessories, it  can take you everywhere from weekend brunch to evening events.

First collage:
1 Holzer lace-paneled fil coupé silk-voile maxi dress by Temperley London (30% off)
2 Belle Web Swiss-dot and lace silk top by Zimmermann
3 The Rockstud leather pouch by Valentino

Second collage:
4 The Garden Swiss-dot cotton maxi dress by The Great (50% off)
5 Belle Swiss-dot and lace silk midi dress by Zimmermann
6 Swiss dot tulle-paneled cable-knit sweater by REDValentino
7 Ren cutout suede sandals by Jimmy Choo

My absolute favorite of all:
Good Times lace-paneled Swiss-dot silk-georgette maxi dress by Zimmermann

To all my Swiss readers: Happy National Day!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands, via ZSG

Summer is on its way and it’s set to be the most sensational yet. Today, I would like to spotlight the definitive trends, hot new designers and must-have pieces for your new season wardrobe.

Kick-start with a high-voltage dress by Diane von Furstenberg. Maxi lengths are a laid-back way to work shimmering sequins for day – finish with Musa‘s decorative sandals. After dark, look to master craftsman Vineet Bahl, the upcoming Indian designer. His beautifully embellished gowns are perfect for sultry nights.

Diane von Furstenberg

Next up, Diane von Furstenberg‘s graphic summer collection ticks two trends in one – power prints and ladylike cuts. Whether you go for a demure knee-length dress or pair up your prints in a contrasting top and skirt, channel the runway girls and keep hair and makeup fuss free.

Christian Louboutin

When it comes to accessories, have fun and experiment. Do the bold shoulder with Christian Louboutin’s Artemis bag – the editors’ favorite and this year’s must-have.

Victoria Beckham

And don’t forget to update your sunglasses. Victoria Beckham‘s oversized frames will lend a fashion-forward edge to any outfit.

This season’s style rule for jewelry? More is more. Hervé van der Straeten is the new need-to-know name. The Parisian jeweler’s sculptural gold cuffs are the perfect partner to neutral tailoring. Semi-precious stones also take a starring role: Rosantica’s lapis lazuli collar necklace or Erickson Beamon’s colour-pop pieces will instantly dress up a simple tee and blazer.

Dive into swimwear in the latest ready-to-wear one-piece – it’s not just for the beach! Be inspired by the Peter Pilotto runway and choose a sporty style for day, finished with a dramatic full skirt and heels.

Zimmermann

Or perfect your poolside pose in bloom-adorned swimsuit by Australian label Zimmermann.

Tara Matthews

As the sun sets, switch effortlessly from pool to bar in Tara Matthews’ stylish cover-up, exclusive to NET-A-PORTER.

Paloma Barcelò

Complete the look with candy-striped wedges by Spanish shoe label Paloma Barcelò.

Happy Shopping!

LoL, Sandra

Me wearing the cutout dress by Gucci

Me wearing Alexander McQueen

This summer, there was no body part safe from the cutout trend. If you think too trashy for you, you will be most likely mistaken. Strategically placed bare spots are glamourous and taking sexy to the next level without being vulgar. Revealing the right amount of skin can be much more sizzling than seeing it all. It is like playing hide and seek.

As the S/S 2010 season is coming to an end fashionwise, I truly recommend getting a cutout or cobwebby knitted dress now. The Gucci version has the must-have tribal print for summer but will not be a classic because of that.
Please find below my pre-selection of the best pieces on sale, available at Browns and Net-à-porter.

Trust me, it will be a good investment. The trend is going to stay for F/W 2010. The only obvious change is that the cutout styles are a little more subtle and smaller which is probably better for the cold winter months. Please see for yourself:

Play discreetly peekaboo and believe me heads will be turning your direction!

LoL, Sandra