Sandra‘s Closet

Last Thursday felt like the perfect start to Art Weekend in Zurich. With Art Basel about to begin, the city was already buzzing with collectors, artists, curators, and friends arriving from all over the world. There was a special energy in the air, the kind that only comes once a year when the art world gathers in Switzerland.

With General Manager Mandarin Oriental Savoy Dominik G. Reiner and German Artist Paul Schrader

My evening started at the Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich, where I attended an intimate reception for German artist Paul Schrader, whose works are currently on display throughout the hotel. I was particularly impressed by how naturally his pieces fit into the elegant surroundings of the Savoy.

His work has a quiet confidence that immediately draws you in without demanding attention. Just as enjoyable as the exhibition was meeting Paul himself, warm, approachable, and refreshingly down-to-earth.

With Christoph Niemann at Tao’s

Later, I joined Galerie Gmurzynska for a dinner at Tao’s celebrating the opening of Christoph Niemann’s exhibition. Niemann is one of those rare artists whose work manages to be clever, playful, and sophisticated at the same time. His ability to transform everyday ideas into visual stories has earned him international recognition, and the exhibition is a wonderful reflection of that creativity.

What made the evening truly special, however, were the people. The conversations flowed effortlessly, old friendships were renewed, new connections were made, and there was a shared excitement for the week ahead.

Tao’s Zurich

A wonderful evening, a beautiful reminder of why Zurich becomes such a captivating place every June, and the perfect beginning to what promises to be an inspiring Art Basel week.

LoL, Sandra

With wonderful Galerist Isabelle Bscher of Galerie Gmurzynska

Friends for a long time: Marco Diemer 

Handbag designer Peter Nitz with whom I hosted an event for Patek Philippe a few years ago.

Photos: Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Savoy and © Sandra Bauknecht
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Between covering the new Art in the Park edition and the beautiful Assouline book dedicated to this iconic house, I found myself feeling wonderfully nostalgic. So consider this post a small homage, one that has been quietly waiting to be written for some time.

My Look: Must-Have

The Baur au Lac is not simply a hotel to me. Having had the privilege of knowing the Kracht family over the years, I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary care, vision and quiet dedication that goes into everything this house represents. That connection makes every visit feel personal in a way that is difficult to put into words.

My Look: Magic Weekend

Over the years, some of my most memorable moments on the Zurich social calendar have unfolded here. Art in the Park is one of them. The Kispi Ball, that most glamorous of charitable evenings, was another, along with the annual Rive Gauche Summer Party. And then there is Street Parade, when Zurich transforms into something wonderfully wild and the Baur au Lac somehow remains the most elegant spot in the city.

My Look: Kispi

The garden terrace holds a particularly special place in my heart. There is nowhere quite like it on a warm Zurich days, and I have spent many of those evenings there, dressed up and grateful to be exactly where I am.

My Look: Beauty Sleep

And yes, I have stayed the night more than once. Because sometimes the only right thing to do is not to leave.

My Look: Roman Studs

Come winter, the magic shifts indoors and into the park in an entirely different way. The Chalet au Lac, a charming rustic retreat tucked into the hotel grounds, is one of Zurich’s most enchanting seasonal secrets, perfect for an unhurried fondue evening when the city slows down and candlelight feels like the only appropriate light source.

My Look: Denim & Brocade

And then there is Baur’s, one of my absolute favourite restaurants in the city. Designed by the internationally acclaimed Martin Brudnizki , the same visionary behind Annabel’s in London – where I am part of the membership committee – , the interior is simply a dream. That particular alchemy of warmth, glamour and timeless elegance that Brudnizki conjures so effortlessly feels entirely at home here.

My Look: Modern Marie Antoinette

What you will find in this post is a collection of outfits photographed at the Baur au Lac across all of these occasions and all of these years. Fashion and place are inseparable for me, and this hotel has been one of the most beautiful backdrops my wardrobe has ever known. Consider this a love letter in looks.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

LoL, Sandra

My Look: Chill

My Look: Girls’ Night

My Look: My Funny Valentine

My Look: Kispi 2018

My Look: Rive Gauche Summer Party 2016

My Look: New Style

My Look: Art in the Park

My Look: Street Parade

My Look: Street Parade 2024

My Look: Baby It’s Cold Outside

My Look: Lesage

My Look: Fab

 Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography and André Hengst
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise. 

This week, I had the absolute pleasure of being invited to the Zimmermann boutique here in Zurich for an exclusive event celebrating their new collection and it was nothing short of magical.

The boutique was alive with beautiful cocktails, wonderful conversations, and enchanting musical performances that set the most perfect atmosphere. It was one of those rare evenings where everything just felt at ease, the people, the energy, the setting, and of course, the clothes.

(If you like my Zimmermann look, click here for the details).

Zimmermann needs little introduction for those who follow fashion. Founded in Sydney in 1991 by sisters Nicky and Simone Zimmermann, the Australian label has grown into one of the world’s most beloved luxury brands. Known for their dreamy femininity, intricate craftsmanship, and that signature blend of romance and ease, Zimmermann has a way of making every piece feel like it was made just for you. Their designs draw heavily on delicate prints, flowing silhouettes, lace detailing, and an almost poetic sense of movement, clothes that feel as beautiful to wear as they look.

I have to confess: Zimmermann is one of my absolute favourite brands. I own an embarrassing number of their pieces and I regret none of them (scroll down and you see most of my Zimmermann outfits). Every single item tells a story and has a place in my heart (and my wardrobe).

The new collection did not disappoint. Seeing it up close, feeling the fabrics, and discovering the details in person was a true treat. If you ever get the chance to visit the Zurich boutique, do not hesitate, it is a beautiful space worthy of the brand it represents.

TO SHOP THE NEW ZIMMERMANN COLLECTION ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

Thank you, Zimmermann, for such a wonderful evening. Until next time.

LoL, Sandra

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

On a quiet, cobbled corner in Zurich’s Old Town, and just around the corner of my favorite lunch place Bindella, Ralph Lauren has opened a new chapter. Tucked away at In Gassen 20, the store features a selection of apparel across Purple Label, Ralph Lauren Collection and Men’s and Women’s Polo Ralph Lauren, alongside a range of accessories including watches and jewelry, handbags, small leather goods, shoes and home offerings. It is second location in Switzerland after Gstaad, but notably the first to include Ralph’s Coffee.

I’ve lived in Switzerland for over twenty years, and quietly, I’ve always wondered why Ralph Lauren never really arrived here in a meaningful way. Because if any market feels instinctively aligned with the brand, it’s this one.

The store itself is exactly what you would expect: composed, polished, and confidently consistent. Ralph Lauren doesn’t reinvent its language, it refines it. Warm wood, tailored interiors, a sense of order and permanence. It’s less about surprise, more about precision. And that’s precisely why it works so well in Switzerland. There’s a shared appreciation for craftsmanship, for things that are made to last, for a certain understated idea of luxury that doesn’t need to announce itself.

At the same time, there are very few brands that have built such a complete lifestyle universe around themselves. Ralph Lauren doesn’t just sell clothes, it constructs a world. And you feel that here. It’s one of those spaces where you actually enjoy looking around, taking in the details, the textures, the way everything is put together. Not forced, not overdesigned, just coherent.

What makes this opening feel more complete, though, is Ralph’s Coffee, finally making its way to Switzerland. Not as a gimmick, but as an extension of the brand’s world. A place to pause, not just to shop. For me, this isn’t just another store opening. It feels slightly overdue and entirely right.

Ralph Lauren
In Gassen 20, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland
Store Hours:
Monday – Friday: 10:00 – 19:00
Saturday: 09:30 – 18:00
Sunday: Closed
Phone: +46 300 69 97 10

LoL Sandra

Photos: © Ralph Lauren
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By the lake in Zurich, wrapped in soft cream and sunlight. March, you’re treating us very well so far. The light, the warmth, the quiet promise of spring – I like you very much.

My look: Cream white cashmere sweater, and matching cashmere pants with buttons (both Coco Neige 2023), 1994 faux-pearl dangle CC clip-on earrings, all by CHANEL, medium Bobby bag in latte by Dior, cream felt hat with logo, and white butterfly tinted sunglasses , both by Valentino, vintage cream snow boots by Prada Sport.

LoL, Sandra

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

I couldn’t have wished for a more perfect birthday last Friday. Surrounded by incredible, stylish women in Zürich – some of whom even traveled to celebrate with me – my heart is still so full. From 12:30 PM until 12:30 AM we laughed, talked, celebrated, and created the most beautiful memories at Club zum Rennweg. I feel beyond grateful and honestly so spoiled.

Thank you to everyone who made this day so special. I love birthdays, but even more, I love the people who make them unforgettable.

My look: Hypnotic lace trim mini dress by Zimmermann, small Heritage shoulder bag by Chloé, Rossy 160 patent leather platform sandals by Saint Laurent, floral lace tights in burgundy by Calzedonia, and crystal-embellished clip-on earrings in gold by Alessandra Rich.

LoL, Sandra

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

Hosting a Burberry event in Zurich was a tue pleasure, a day shaped by conversations, style, and a shared appreciation for the house. Friends of mine and clients of the House came together to experience the F/W 2025 collection, alongside my styling insights and a closer look at the season’s defining themes.

What I wore felt like a natural extension of that dialogue. Dressed head to toe in Burberry, my look combined current pieces with elements that have long been part of my wardrobe. A reminder that true style isn’t about moments, but continuity and that Burberry’s strength lies in its ability to remain timeless while constantly evolving.

My look: Oversized silk-habotai shirt, shearling-collar trim scarf, asymmetric printed plissé-twill skirt, leather-trimmed cashmere and cotton-gabardine bag charm, mini Pocket tote bag, and buckled leather knee boots, all by Burberry.

LoL, Sandra

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

Balenciaga opens a new 367-square meter store in Zurich, its first Swiss flagship. The space, located in the historic Schweizerische Volksbank building, offers the latest in Balenciaga’s men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, shoe, bag, accessory, eyewear, and jewelry collections, plus exclusives.

BALENCIAGA
Bahnhofstrasse 53
8001 Zurich / Switzerland
Phone: +41447973180

Opening Hours:
Monday: 10:00 – 19:00
Tuesday: 10:00 – 19:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 19:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 19:00
Friday: 10:00 – 19:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 18:00
Sunday: Closed

You can book an appointment here.

LoL, Sandra

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

Do you remember my dear friend Nina? I have been writing several times about her in the past (for a previous post click here). Well I have great news for my Zurich based followers. Nina and the City (former Kids and the City) will be part at Amatista’s (a luxury concierge service) first Christmas Market at the Ballroom of the Dolder Grand on Saturday Dec 2nd, 2023 (from 2pm-9pm). Nina will be presenting as always fashion, accessories and lovely Christmas gift ideas.

The Amatista Christmas market will have tons of highlights, from specially curated art pieces, a caviar tasting, a champagne lounge, a pianist, a cigar stand (aka hubby parking spot) and much more. All in all 17 partners will be presenting their goodies at several booths.

However the top highlight will be the fashion show by Nina and the City presenting exclusively for Switzerland the first F/W 2023 collection from Nimo with Love. Behind Nimo with Love is Nicole Mohrmann, whom I have known for many years also from my time in Munich. She has spent years building lasting and trusting relationships with small workshops in India who embrace her vision of Nimo as becoming one big, global family, that creates beautiful things. The brand is committed to a culture and environment that is respectful, caring, nurturing and encouraging – and values creativity in all aspects.

Hand-sewn details, such as beads and embroidery, as opposed to glued-on, perfectly aligned stitches, made with thread that integrates perfectly in the design … The attention to detail asks for high-end craftsmanship. Nimo With Love works with small businesses who sew a heritage of artisanal expertise into each and every piece of the collection. Each garment is hand-made with passion. It takes a whole village to turn a beautiful fabric into a beautiful wearable textile!

Hope to see you all there … I’ll definitely be. I am also excited to see the newest holiday installation by my favorite Finish artist Jani Leinonen, that will be revealed on December 1, 2023.

RSVP on .
The Dolder Grand
Kurhausstrasse 65
8032 Zürich

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Nina and the City, © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

I am happily announcing that I am a new ambassador for Clé de Peau Beauté. Founded in Japan in 1982, the ultra luxury skincare and makeup brand is finally available in Switzerland again. Today Clé de Peau Beauté is owned by the Shiseido Group. The name says it all, Clé de Peau means in French the key to skin’s beauty.

Mathieu Arsac, Marketing Director Shiseido Group, Switzerland, with me.

Yesterday, influencers and journalists were invite to Signau House in Zurich for an intimate lunch and to discover the products first hand.

«INTELLIGENT – EXQUISITE – UNCOMPROMISING»

Clé de Peau Beauté’s mission has always been to forge new frontiers in advanced skin cell science. It was the first brand in 1982 to consider the skin on a cellular level. Based upon decades of research and with a sophisticated combination of cutting-edge Japanese technology and precious ingredients, scientists unlocked the power of Skin Intelligence – skin’s innate ability to distinguish between good and bad stimuli to achieve and maintain its ideal condition. Scientists considered the epidermis as the third brain. Clé de Peau Beauté products were created to empower skin to reach this highly desired state of harmony – the key to skin’s radiance, and optimal qualities of texture, tone and contour.

«SKIN BEHAVES LIKE A BRAIN.»

Luxurious in every aspect, from masterfully crafted formulations to highly sensorial experiences, Clé de Peau Beauté adopted the global language of luxury, French. With a full range of exceptionally crafted skincare, color, and complexion products, Clé de Peau Beauté helps women to unlock skin’s innermost potential and, ultimately, transform skin and reveal the radiance within.

During the next weeks, I will explain you the different products, my skincare routine further and give you some make-up tips. So stay tuned for more.
Clé de Peau Beauté is available in Switzerland at Globus and Marionnaud.

LoL, Sandra

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