Sandra‘s Closet

Monday last week, I arrived in NYC to attend the launch of Gucci‘s newest fragrance GUCCI BAMBOO that took place at the Bowery hotel for two days with special events. During that time, I was able to meet and interview the face of the campaign, Israeli actress and model GAL GADOT, who is known for her role as Gisele in The Fast and the Furious film series and as Wonder Woman in the upcoming movie Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Stay tuned for the interview which will be coming up tomorrow. For now, let’s have a look at the new fragrance.

First of all what does Bamboo means? For Gucci, it is not so much about the plant but about the woodstock, its strength and resilience which is used for the iconic bag handles for example (If you are interested to see a tour around the manufacture in Casselina, I invite you to click here).

For the fragrance, the Italian fashion house tried to stay true to its DNA and transported the iconic leather and wood aspect to the scent. It has been a long process of almost 3 years, with lots of iterations until the final result was found.

Duality plays an important role, reflecting strength and femininity at the same time. Woody floral fragrances have been used for a long time in the Gucci perfume world but with GUCCI BAMBOO, another story has been written, something different and exotic from all the others.

The Notes

1. Casablanca Lilies from North Africa (a Headspace recreation) add a wonderful complexity as if the sun is touching the petals itself.

2. Ylang Ylang from the Comoros Islands of the East coast of Africa (natural extraction). Only the extract is used for Gucci Bamboo. The small yellow flowers are handpicked and than right afterwards put in a steamed distillation.

3. Sandalwood from Australia (a natural extraction of the bark). This is another very important signature note for Gucci as it adds the duality.

4. Tahitian Vanilla (special chosen quality). It has more dryness, a balsamic quality, very rich, not too sweet, more leathery.

5. In order to bring to life the dazzling and fresh aspect of the fragrance, Pear and Italian Bergamot were used as opening notes. This give that crunchy freshness.

The fragrance is really beautiful and it literally grows on you during the day. In the morning, you apply the freshness that transforms during the following hours in something very rich and floral and that ends with a captivating dryness.

The face, Gal Gadot, is the epitome of a modern multifaceted woman. Mother, wife and businesswoman. Warm and open. Strong and feminine, just like a bamboo.

GUCCI BAMBOO is available from July 30, 2015.
Eau de Parfum 30ml (€64.00), 50ml (€89.00) and 75ml (€114.00)

Shower Gel 200ml (€35.00), Body Lotion 200ml (€37.00) and Deodorant Natural Spray 100ml (€26.00).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Gucci, © Sandra Bauknecht

Last Monday, I flew for 48 hours to NYC for the launch of Gucci‘s newest fragrance Bamboo that I will tell you all about soon. Here you see me at the Bowery Hotel where I attended the revealing of the campaign.

My look: Black cardigan by Miu Miu, color block dress, Bamboo Shopper large textured-leather tote and new Adina suede pumps, all by Gucci, beaded bracelet by Saint Laurent and Lady Excalibur watch by Roger Dubuis.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Recently I had a lovely lunch at Seerose in Zurich to explore the newest scent by Jo Malone: MIMOSA & CARDAMOM. It is such a lovely fragrance, unexpected and new with its modern floriental signature. The nose behind it is Marie Salamagne.

Marie, can you tell us about the brief from Jo Malone London?
The first thing that Jo Malone London showed me was some incredibly vivid orientalist paintings from the nineteenth century. They wanted to create a fragrance that captured the bohemian spirit of adventure from the Victorians, who travelled the world collecting intriguing objects, to the vibrant hedonism of the sixties to the modern day bohemian. With Jo Malone London the process is always very immersive so I looked forward to really delving into the bohemian world.

Please tell us about how you were inspired by Mimosa.
Mimosa & Cardamom is infused with sensuality and much of this comes from the mimosa itself, an unusual powdery and honeyed floral that perfectly captures the bohemian character. I had a strong memory of the mimosa flower which made it even more exciting to work with. It has always reminded me of my childhood and winter weekends spent near the coast in the South of France. It was a joy to see these blooms again when Jo Malone London took me to see the mimosa growing in the Tanneron Mountains in Provence. It was a cold February day with bright blue skies. The scent and spectacle of the fluffy yellow flowers was unbelievable, mimosa is the golden sun of winter! I took some branches back from Tanneron with me and put them in my office so every day I could be inspired by the smell of the bright yellow pompoms. I chose to use a sumptuous absolute of Mimosa from the South of France, rich with a multifaceted character to capture the beauty of these flowers.

MIMOSA & CARDAMOM
FLORIENTAL

Top note: Cardamom
Middle note: Mimosa
Base note: Tonka Bean

Fragrance Combining™
With English Pear & Freesia for a spicy note and with Red Roses for a soft and comforting warmth.

The Mimosa & Cardamom Collection
Cologne 30ml, CHF 69.00
Cologne 100ml, CHF 130.00
Body Wash & Hand Cream 250ml, CHF 47.00
Body Cream 175ml, CHF 99.00
Home Candle 200g, CHF 82.00

In Switzerland available in August 2015 at Globus Geneva and Jelmoli Zurich.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Jo Malone and © Sandra Bauknecht

Swiss luxury watch manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen has created a seductive range of partners’ watches to grace its Portofino collection. The Portofino Automatic and the smaller Portofino Automatic 37 have formed a bond and together set off their respective attractions to their best advantage. Couples who wish to celebrate their union with a symbol on their wrists can
choose from eight combinations. Whether purist or lavishly set with diamonds, the timeless beauty
of the Portofino For Two models underscores the decision by two individuals to spend their time and build their future together.

Couple No. 1
Ref. 4581 (37 mm): Stainless-steel case set with 66 diamonds, slate-coloured dial,
black alligator leather strap by Santoni with pin buckle
Ref. 3565 (40 mm): Stainless-steel case, black dial, black alligator leather strap with pin buckle

Couple No. 2
Ref. 4581 (37 mm): Stainless-steel case, slate-coloured dial set with 12 diamonds,
black alligator leather strap by Santoni with pin buckle
Ref. 3565 (40 mm): Stainless-steel case, black dial, black alligator leather strap with pin buckle

Speaking of love and romance, I am on my way to Florence for one of my best friend’s wedding. I am honored to be a bridesmaid and cannot wait to celebrate those two… stay tuned!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of IWC/PHOTOPRESS

Don’t be a sweaty mess. Fill your beach bag with these Baywatch-sexy beauty essentials to keep you cool, protected, and looking good all summer. Here are my favorites:

FOR THE FACE

LANCÔME Belle de Teint – CHF 69.00
in 04 Belle de Mielle

 Perfect for a healthy glow,  this silky, smooth bronzer adds instant color, shimmer and healthy glow to your skin. I like to use it on my face or all over my body to enhance my summer tan.

LANCÔME Shine Lover – CHF 40.00
in 120 Ô My Rouge

A vibrant shine lipstick that reveals the attitude of a smile while hydrating, rejuvenating, and smoothing the lips.

SISLEY Phyto-Eye Twist – CHF 45.00
in 02 Bronze

This is your all-in-one waterproof eye make-up solution combing an eye shadow and with an eyeliner. The “jumbo” tip blends and glides to color the eyelids the way you like it. Perfect for the beach!

CLARINS UV Plus Anti-Pollution
Day Screen Multi Protection SPF 50 – CHF 59.00

This is my daily must-have all year around because it is the perfect daily defense for younger-looking skin as the lightweight, oil-free screen shields skin from UVA/UVB rays, pollution, and free radical damage. It forms an invisible shield that protects the skin from the appearance of dark spots and future aging.

FOR THE BODY

BIOTHERM Spray Solaire Lacté SPF 30 – CHF 41.00 (200ml)
Ultra-Light Moisturizing Sun Spray

I love this oil-free and non-sticky sun protection spray. With its quick application, high SPF and water-resistant formula, its is ideal for all your beach activities.

CLARINS Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster – CHF 46.50

One word: amazing! This self-tanner that can be mixed with any skin care product to add a self-tanning effect to the moisturising and firming benefits of your usual routine. Ultra-simple for a radiant sun-kissed glow.

ESTÉE LAUDER Bronze Goddess Eau Fraîche Skinscent – CHF 82.00 (100ml)

Last but not least, summer wouldn’t be the same for me without Estée Lauder’s Bronze Goddess scent. The limited edition fragrance is finally back and it smells like beach, sun and summer in a bottle with its gourmand base notes of amber, coconut milk, vanilla, vetiver, sandalwood and myrrh.

This post is also available in German and French on the Marionnaud blog.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands, © Sandra Bauknecht

The first evening in Capri was a «White Night», guests were asked to dress head to toe in white. Before leaving to dinner, I took these photos on the terrace of the Caesare Augustus Hotel in Anacapri with spectacular views over the Mediterranean Sea.

My look: White lace dress by Azzedine Alaïa, white «Duffle 6» bag, Alice T-strap studded sandals, both by Saint Laurent, «So Real» sunglasses by Dior, white cuff and earrings, both by Chanel, Limelight Gala watch by Piaget and diamond ring by Vainard Fine Jewellery.

If you are interested in some travel tips for Capri, click here for Tommy Hilfiger‘s insider scoop.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

One weekend ago, I went to Capri to attend the most beautiful wedding in the Garden of Augustus. The gardens, designed in terraces overlooking the sea, can be considered a testament to the rich flora of the island, with various ornamental plants and flowers such as geraniums, dahlias and brooms. A perfect spot to get married! The dress code was bohemian glamour – couldn’t have been better.

My look: Knitted long gown in gold beige by Azzedine Alaïa, fringed Monogram bag in gold, woven lurex tassel necklace, beaded bracelet and Bianca leather sandals, all by Saint Laurent, bohemian headpiece, earrings and necklace, all by Chanel, diamond ring by Vainard Fine Jewellery, Mitza ring by Dior Haute Joaillerie, Lady Excalibur watch by Roger Dubuis.

LoL, Sandra

 Patrick Liotard-Vogt with me

All the best to the newly weds!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Born in Paris, CATHERINE SARR was raised in France in a Beninese home from where her interest in jewellery began. After graduating, her passion led her to venture to London where she discovered and promoted the art of craftsmanship from around the world. She worked for various luxury brands, including several years spent at De Beers Group where she curated one-of-a-kind international jewellery collections. Inspired by the history of ancient kingdoms and Africa’s rich ornament heritage, her newly launched brand ALMASIKA (available at Colette in Paris and Meister in Zurich among others) fuses iconic motifs with an international sensibility. Living part time in ABU DHABI, she shares her favourite spots with us.

Your favourite city?
ABU DHABI is one of my favourite places. I like the tranquil feel and outstanding venues.

Your favourite hotel?
The ST REGIS HOTEL SAADIYAT ISLAND. The open sea view when you enter the resort is simply outstanding! You feel rested just by looking at the turquoise water.
Saadiyat Island – أبو ظبي – UAE, Phone +971 2 498 8888

Your favourite restaurant?
Michelin star restaurant – CATALAN at the Rosewood Hotel in Sowwah Square. The restaurant serves fantastic seafood.
Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island – أبو ظبي – UAE, Phone +971 2 813 5550

Your favourite bar or nightclub?
CARAMEL LOUNGE – You can have a drink or dine with the best 90’s RnB live mix.
The Collection – The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Saaydiyat Island – أبو ظبي – UAE, Phone +971 2 678 3344

Your favourite sightseeing spot?
The SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE – It is one of the most beautiful mosque in the world. Whatever your religion, you feel spiritual when you enter.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – أبو ظبي – UAE, Phone +971 2 419 1919

Your favourite park?
The CORNICHE PARK – It stretches 5 km along the Abu Dhabi coast. It’s perfect for a family day. You can rent a bicycle from one of the many stations.
UAE, Abu Dhabi, Corniche Rd W, Al Khalidiyah

Your favourite beach?
NURAI ISLAND – It is one of the most exclusive private island resort in the world, few minutes off the coast of Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi. The beach has beautiful soft white sands.

Your favourite shop?
THE GALLERIA – It is more than a shop it is a exclusive destination with selected fashion, jewellery and watches but also dining and curated shows.
Al Falah St – أبو ظبي – UAE, Phone +971 2 616 6999

Your must-have accessory?
ALMASIKA Le Cauri Endiamante diamond necklace. It takes me from day to evening.

The best soundtrack for this destination?
TOUMANI DIABATE – Elyne Road. He is a master kora player. My favorite instrument.

The best book to read while being on vacation there?
JUST READ IT! It’s a book by Emirati rising star Omar Al Busaidy. I can’t tell you what it is about, ‘Just Read It‘.

Thank you, Catherine, for sharing your insider scoop on Abu Dhabi with us!

By the way, this month Etihad Airways has introduced its new Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the Abu Dhabi – Zurich route, offering the airline’s industry-leading First Suites, Business Studios, and Economy Smart Seats, and providing travellers with unparalleled comfort and innovation.
Safe travels!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Alaska Fine Jewellery, © Etihad Airways, © Dave Peabody Dave Peabody/PR, © St Regis Hotel, © Sandra Bauknecht

For those who have missed it or don’t have the chance to watch Swiss television, here is the last Spotlight show from the Tiffany & Co. opening in Geneva that was presented last week (for the post about the event, please click here). The episode gives a fabulous insight in the history of the famous American jeweler. Have fun watching the show!

And please don’t forget to like Spotlight on FACEBOOK! Your support would be extremely appreciated – a huge thank you in advance!

LoL, Sandra

This week, I flew to Paris for a great evening with Lancôme to celebrate their 80th anniversary and to interview Viktor & Rolf who were proud of the festivities for Flowerbomb, their iconic fragrance, that turned 10 this year.

I met the designer duo at the beautiful Peninsula Hotel Paris, that had opened its doors last year. The interview was absolutely amazing and I was so happy when I left to the airport that I sat down at the piano in the lobby. Playing my favorite instrument is something that gives me lots of relaxation and energy at once.

My look: Silk embellished top and black silk skirt, both by Viktor & Rolf (from a previous season), cutout leather platform pumps by Saint Laurent, Bamboo leather tote by Gucci, necklace and cuff, both by Chanel, ring by Vainard Fine Jewellery and Lady Excalibur watch by Roger Dubuis.

My piano dream life feels more like a fortissimo life but I adore my job and this gets me going! Next stop NYC and Florence, stay tuned for more…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht