Sandra‘s Closet

Lavish the lips in exotic ingredients with Tom Ford‘s new lipstick, LIP COLOR SHINE. Made with Brazilian murumuru butter and chamomilla flower oil; the ultra-creamy texture delivers a decadent and luminous veil of semi-transparent colour while tasting deliciously. Available in 10 great shades, these lightweight, wearable, semi-transparent beauty musts hydrate lips that may have suffered the effects of the recent cold weather.

”Lips are a woman’s most alluring and sensual feature. Luminous, semi-transparent lip colour is seductive in a very kissable way”, says Tom Ford.

My favourite shades: Frolic, Insidious, Quiver and Willful.
In Switzerland exclusively available at Jelmoli in Zurich for CHF 62.00 each.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Tom Ford and © Sandra Bauknecht

I have a sweet love for this Olivia embellished leather waist belt by Moschino.
It started in Rome a long time ago … and has obviously never ended. It had just been hidden in my closet for a while …

My look: Black jacket by Gucci, pink neoprene dress by Tibi (also available in white), logo belt by Moschino, neon necklace, faux python leather bag and matching shoes, all three by Stella McCartney. Twenties stay-up thigh-highs by Wolford.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

When I heard the news that Akris Creative Director Albert Kriemler dresses Alicia Keys for her “Set The World On Fire” tour, I was completely excited. And when I saw the looks, I was over the moon. For the American pop singer and songwriter it was important that the outfits are not more important than her performance. And as her stylist, Laura Jones, told style.com, her performances are all about the singing, rather than fancy costumes. “Alicia doesn’t like to do a lot of costume changes. We’re not trying to build up some big embellished look [and] we didn’t want her to be hidden by the clothes,” says Jones, who’s been dressing Keys for a year.

Personally speaking, I couldn’t think of a better choice for Alicia Keys. The famous singer recently appeared in the Swiss brand at several high-profile events and always looked gorgeous: During her set at the Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall in London, Keys performed in a black pebblestone-embroidery dress. I completely understand Alicia’s love for Akris. The F/W 2013 collection was a dream, stay tuned for a detailed post coming up soon!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Akris

Gladiator boots are celebrating a huge comeback for S/S 2013. Seen at Alexander Wang, Altuzarra and Proenza Schouler among many others, it’s clear, they’re back. Of course, it can be a tricky trend, but who can resist those eyecatching shoes?

Below is the list of the best ones to shop at the moment:

1 Aline leather sandals by Alexander Wang
2 Embellished leather cage sandals by Altuzarra
3 Leather gladiator wedge boots by Giuseppe Zanotti
4 Leather gladiator knee sandals by Gianvito Rossi
5 Stamped leather gladiator lace-up boots by Proenza Schouler
6 Mogul studded suede cage sandals by Jimmy Choo
7 Marta calfskin elastic high boots by Alexander Wang
8 Leather gladiator sandal boots by Versace

LoL, Sandra

Today, I would like to take you on an aromachological journey with Roger & Gallet. Recently, I attended their press conference n Zurich at the beautifully decorated Pflanzbar that provided the perfect ambiance to experience this olfactory adventure. Personally speaking, it has been one of the most breathtaking presentations in a very long time. Roger & Gallet offers a natural touch of emotion and luxury everyday with their know-how of a perfumer-apothecary since 1862.

Inspired by the original Eau de Cologne Jean Marie Farina, official supplier to Napoleon I, the creations of Roger & Gallet result from an authentic know-how of distillation of rare natural ingredients. At the Pflanzbar, we were able to go on a perfumer’s journey to the heart of some of the most beautiful gardens in the world.

Let me share with you the secret of a wonderful and unique daily beauty regime. Perfumes that are composed with natural essential oils, soaps perfumed to their ‘heart’ using the traditional cauldron method and body care with exceptional textures.

GINGER
Stimulating

Succumb to the exuberance of Indian gardens, allow yourself to be aroused by the magic of maharajahs’ palaces, the sensual swish of silk saris and savour a sparkling bouquet of ginger flowers and precious wood mingled with the sensual spices.

GREEN TEA
Soothing

Allow yourself to be carried away by the radiant, sacred atmosphere of Mount Fuji rising among the tea fields. The senses are aroused, the mind is stimulated under a natural waterfall of green tea and citrus fruit blended with the subtle sensuality of the precious wood, inspired by the wisdom and harmony of the oriental tradition. The balancing of body and mind.

BOIS D’ORANGER
Invigorating

An olfactive journey into the Andalucian gardens of the Alhambra in Grenada under the orange trees of the Generalife Palace.  Capture the vibrant sunshine, as well as the freshness of the leaf and the fruit, the softness of the flower and the fresh sensuality of orange wood.

ROSE
Relaxing

The exquisite refinement of a mythical flower with a bewitching perfume and silky  petals. A magical walk through the splendour of the palaces of Bengal and their delectable gardens, it celebrates its union with the mystery of amber.

FLEUR D’OSMANTHUS
Euphoric

This beautiful fragrance transports you into a Chinese Garden of Eden, in quest of the rare and mysterious flower of happiness.

And here is the newest addition to the Roger & Gallet fragrance family:

FLEUR DE FIGUIER
Delightful

Imagined during a trip to the Mediterranean garden of Esterel, this new fresh and indulgent scent radiates light and opulence. The sensual accord of fig pulp is first enhanced by a hint of caraway and the freshness of grapefruit. The fragrance notes of crisp fig leaves then reveal themselves as they blend with those of mandarin blossom. Finally, the sensuality of musk and fig wood provides a sensation of relaxing wellbeing. A truly amazing new scent!

Available from April 2013 in pharmacies.
Eau Fraîche CHF 59.70 (100ml) 
Crème Douche CHF 16.00 (200ml), Soap CHF 9.60 (100g) and Body Milk CHF 20.60 (200ml)

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

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

Many of you who have been following Sandra’s Closet since a while, might know Nina already. Her concept pop-up shop KIDS AND THE CITY is a must-visit in the area of Zurich when you are looking for the newest accessories, gift ideas and objects of desire from emerging designers from all over the world. Great news is that she will be opening her doors for 4 days next week. You are herewith cordially invited to a Spring Fling – a private sale featuring numerous exclusive brands, such as La Capra Cashmere, Happycoat, Heartwork by Envie, A Simple Hug, Loup y es-tu, Des Artistes, Treibgut, Caspita and many more new collections.

Nina Arnold-Shah

March 19th to 22nd, 10.00am – 07.00pm Friday 10.00am – 03.00pm 
OR BY APPOINTMENT  Kids and the City by Nina Arnold-Shah +41 79 768 37 23
Breitackerstrasse 4 – 8702 Zollikon/ Switzerland  
RSVP to

And here is your exclusive preview of some of the gorgeous new treasures Nina has put together for us:

CASPITA

Rings Micro Quintessence with coloured stones, CHF 1’200 each

Earrings Micro Quintessence Chakra Sahasrara, CHF 2’700

Necklace Micro Quintessence Chakra Anahata, CHF3’300

ATELIER SHAKO

Shako, the mastermind behind those beautifully crafted bags, was born and raised in Kyoto, Japan. After her studies in Spain, she moved to France to work for Hermès. In 2009, she launched her eponymous label Atelier Shako in Geneva to fulfill her passion for outstanding design and craftsmanship.

Clutch CHF 760.-

HEARTWORK BY ENVIE

Founder and designer Nina Eiber is based in Vienna and specializes in luxury, limited edition silk scarves with contrasting prints on either side.

My favourite: Vogue scarf CHF 260.-

ZOJORA

Travel inspired accessories from across the globe. 
Necklaces CHF 45.- / Bracelets CHF 29.-

TREIBGUT

Inspired by flotsam and jetsam, the idea was to create a mojo reminiscent of the life at the sea. All bracelets can be custom-made and can vary therefore  in prices.

Bellinzona with citrine – CHF 335.-

Brindisi CHF 225.-

A SIMPLE HUG

Such a cute idea: Top-quality matching shirts for father and son – a unique offer.
Father & Son shirt set – starting at CHF 160.-

ENGEL & BANDITEN

The cutest school cones ever, available for CHF 109.- each.

I hope that you are a little inspired now. See you at Nina’s next week!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the brands and Kids and the City

Today, I got back from a wonderful trip to Geneva with Nescens. The last weeks have been crazy with travelling, Los Angeles, Paris, next week, I will fly to London and Vienna. Therefore, I am so happy to have a very relaxing weekend ahead of me that I am planning to spend most of the time cuddled up in bed with my laptop. I have so many amazing things to show you.

For my Swiss based readers, I have also two reading suggestions for the weekend: First of all, my new column in the SI Style magazine is out now. This time, I am telling you a little bit more about my experience with the Fifty Shades of Grey triology. Second of all, the recent edition of Swiss News, the international magazine of Switzerland, is available now featuring a beautiful three-page portrait of one of my favourite designers, Mary Katrantzou.

And in case you are curious in which linen I will be all cuddled up, most of my bedding is by Christian Fischbacher. I just love their quality, fabrics and designs. The one you see in the photos is Cloque, one of my favourites as it doesn’t need to be ironed. Have a great weekend!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Those printed satin sandals by Dolce & Gabbana arrived in my closet this week and it was a true pleasure opening the package. Not only the shoes are beautiful, but also their box and vibrant dust bag. The colors set the mood for a hot, golden summer – I am loving it!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, Runway: Courtesy of Dolce & Gabbana