Sandra‘s Closet

With fall coats this cute and versatile, we dare you to pick just one. Sounds difficult, not this time! With these reversible options, you are getting two for the price of one. So you can stay ahead of the fashion game and coat up in style. Furthermore I have always loved the idea of reversible items,  they take up less space in your wardrobe and you can inconspicuously wear the same thing two days in a row.

Here are my favorite options available at the moment, just click on the highlighted text to be transferred directly to the shop:

Pegli reversible coat by Weekend Max Mara

Reversible belted camel hair-blend coat by Brunello Cucinello

Reversible belted cashmere coat by Loro Piana

Lyonia belted two-tone wool and cashmere-blend coat by Veronica Beard

Rach reversible wool-blend coat by Rag & Bone

Reversible belted coat by Givenchy

Happy Halloween!

LoL, Sandra

Photo in Collage © Peruvian Connection – Stills: Courtesy of the Brands

According to the F/W 2019 runways, camouflage is back and more versatile than ever. But why is camo a thing again now? It might have to do with its utilitarian roots and a second-coming of ‘80s and ‘90s style inspiration. Camo, by definition, is a form of armor. Its purpose is to hide and conceal. Blending in the landscape, I also love my new Jimmy Choo boots and bag, that both feature the new exquisite JC logo hardware detailing.

My look: Camouflage-intarsia wool cardigan and matching camouflage-intarsia wool shorts, embellished rabbit-felt cap, and glitter sunglasses, all by Miu Miu, bee fil coupé shirt by Gucci, Varenne leather tote and Mahesa 100 embellished leather knee boots, both by Jimmy Choo, pearl earrings and logo pearl brooch, both by Chanel.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

October is breast cancer awareness month and each year the Estée Lauder Companies launch some of their iconic products as a part of the Pink Ribbon collection, of which proceeds of the profits are donated to research. A movement that started with one woman, Evelyn H. Lauder. In 1992, the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign was born when the visionary became troubled by the lack of awareness, funding and resources necessary to overcome the disease.

Even that this post is pretty late in the last days of October (I hadn’t received the infos in time…), I don’t want you to miss this beautiful initiative by the Estée Lauder Companies as raising awareness for breast cancer is very dear to my heart. My mum had it twice and survived it. Being close to someone that goes through this terrible disease, is eye-opening.

BOBBI BROWN
Proud to be Pink Lip Color Duo
CHF 59.00 (of which CHF 15.00 are donated)

CLINIQUE
Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion Jumbo with Keychain
CHF 89.00 / 200ml (of which CHF 17.00 are donated)

LA MER
The Treatment Lotion
CHF 105.00 / CHF 100ml (of which CHF 21 are donated)

ESTÉE LAUDER
Limited-Edition Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II with Pink Ribbon Bracelet
CHF 149.00 / 50ml  (of which CHF 20.00 are donated)

ESTÉE LAUDER
Pink Perfection Lipstick Set
CHF 65.00 (of which CHF 13.00 are donated)

AVEDA
Hand Relief™ Moisturizing Cream with Cherry Almond Aroma
CHF 40.50 (of which CHF 5 are donated)

The products will be available until they are sold out. Shopping for a great cause is something we should all be supporting! Girls support girls…

For my Swiss readers some great news: On October 31, 2019 you are invited to attend the Estée Lauder Companies Pink Ribbon Charity Sale at Puls 5, Giessereihalle, 8031 Zurich from 11am to 7pm with mark downs up to 70% from brands such as Aveda, Clinique, Estée Lauder, Glamglow, Jo Malone London, Mac, Origins, Smashbox, Tom Ford and fragrances from DKNY, Michael Kors. All proceeds will go to Look Good Feel Better.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Estée Lauder Companies
#TimeToEndBreastCancer

One thing my mum taught me from an early age is taking care of my neck and upper chest. Let’s be frank, most of us have been cleansing and moisturizing since we were in high school but how many pay really attention to this delicate area even that the décolletage is often one of the first places to show signs of ageing. I am always amused when I see some perfectly smooth faces treated with botox on top of a wrinkled neck. It doesn’t look young, rather bizarre.

Why is that? The skin on our neck and upper chest is naturally thinner and more prone to wrinkling than elsewhere. It also produces less oil than the face, but also often receives more sun exposure so forgetting to apply SPF and neglecting to nourish it can result in premature ageing quicker than you’d imagine. I know so many women who rely on foundation to provide protection, but they’re not blending it down onto their neck in sufficient amounts to block damaging UVA rays, the same goes for their moisturizing routine that mostly stops at the chin.

Another very important factor are so-called «sleep wrinkles» that can show on your chest. Especially if you are a side sleeper. Try to get off to sleep when lying on your back and use my beloved Beauty Bear™ Age Defy Pillow by Nurse Jamie.

And most importantly, there is the phenomenon of the «tech neck», that can occur from persistent folding of the skin from repetitive motion, like looking down at your phone or laptop computer. This leads to a laxity of the neck skin and causes these terrible horizontal wrinkles. This is not all…

Did you know that the upper chest area is a high histamine response area, and thus red flushing can occur. Most women think skincare stops at the neck. However, the quality of most daily body lotions is insufficient to treat or delay signs of ageing on the décolletage. If you’re serious about treating your chest, shop for décolletage-specific skincare. Personally speaking, I am a total fan of the new LA MER ‘The Neck and Décolleté Concentrate’ cream. Formulated with Miracle Broth™, strengthening ferment and lime tea concentrate, this intensive balm deeply hydrates and plumps to soften fine lines and crepiness.

The product is intended to be used morning and evening. Gently smooth it onto your neck and décolletage with fingertips (my preferred way) or with the brush provided, then massage using upward, circular motions. For optimal results, follow with your favorite moisturizer.

My personal tip to get bad beauty habits literally off your chest. You can tone your skin as you pamper it by doing this exercise I got from a dermatologist: Tilt your head back, relax your upper body, and open and close your mouth, jetting your jaw forward and tensing it as you do it. The platysma on the neck muscles are like cords, you are strengthening them that way. The muscles on the neck are independent from the skin, unlike the face where it’s all glued together. Apply the neck cream first with vigorous upward strokes using your entire palm, and then do the exercise. Repeat the exercise 20 times each night to get great results!

The special skin there has special needs. My best tip is to treat your décolleté like you treat your face. Get cleansing. Get moisturizing.

The Neck and Décolleté Concentrate is available now for CHF 320.- (50ml).
TO SHOP IT ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of La Mer and © Sandra Bauknecht

Gold leaves in autumn, on a beautiful fall sunny day in Austria – during my stay at Vivamayr Maria Wörth, I went on several walks and explored the area nearby. Right next to the deluxe detox destination is the famous Gothic pilgrimage church dedicated to the Virgin Mary on the highest plateau of the island. It was built as early as around 875 and is one of the loveliest pearls of the landscape in the garland of Carinthian beauty, with the neighbouring Winterkirche beneath it.

After a week in sweatpants, I felt like dressing up. Isn’t it amazing how one brooch and a corset belt can change a black dress completely?!

My look: Wool-blend long sleeve dress by Alaïa, velvet and leather-trimmed Prince of Wales checked wool-blend corset belt by Miu Miu, Studwrap leather pumps
by Valentino, waist bag with chains and pearls and logo pearl brooch, both by Chanel.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

«My new citrus floral fragrance was inspired by the sparkling scents and quality of light that can only be found in Sicily. Limone di Sicilia evokes that same uplifting radiance with an artisanal blend of Bergamot and Muguet de Mai paired with Lemon Primofiore. It’s as joyful and vibrant as the island itself.» – Aerin Lauder

AERIN Beauty‘s newest perfume is inspired by golden sunlight and the many lemon groves that dot Sicily’s stunning landscape. This light and airy fragrance opens with citrusy notes before revealing its floral heart. The velvety base notes will linger on your skin – enhance the aroma with the coordinating body cream.

Luminous White Floral
TOP NOTES: Bergamot, Lemon Primofiore, Italian Mandarin
MIDDLE NOTES: Egyptian Jasmine, Rose Centifolia, Pink Pepper
BASE NOTES: Ambrox, Oakmoss

If you like to shop the products online, click on the highlighted text to be transferred directly.

Limone Di Sicilia Parfum Spray, 50ml

Limone Di Sicilia Body Cream, 190ml

A great scent to take summer into fall…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Aerin Beauty, © Sandra Bauknecht
#AerinBeauty #MyPerfectEscape

Great news for the fashion world: luxury conglomerate Richemont is teaming up with former Lanvin designer Alber Elbaz for a new venture at a time when luxury goods groups are vying to make star hires.

«I am very happy to partner with Richemont and to establish my ‘dream factory,’ which will focus on developing solutions for women of our times,» Elbaz said in a statement.

Me with Alber Elbaz in 2015

Elbaz was born in Casablanca, Morocco, in 1961 to a Moroccan Jewish family. He immigrated to Israel with his family at the age of ten and grew up in Holon. After his studies at Shenkar College of Engineering and Design, he had jobs at Geoffrey Beene, Guy Laroche, Yves Saint Laurent where he designed the Rive Gauche collection under Saint Laurent himself, and Krizia.

Lanvin F/W 2012 campaign

He then began designing for Lanvin, France’s oldest fashion house, in 2001 and transformed the Maison from a small label with only 15 wholesale accounts to a global fashion house known for feminine, comfortable and clever ready-to-wear that earned the approval of celebrities, critics and customers alike. Elbaz’s simple, feminine clothing, which has been compared to Lanvin’s 1920s outfits, has been lauded by the fashion press. Suzy Menkes wrote: «Elbaz is every woman’s darling. And that includes Nicole, Kate, Chloë Sevigny, Sofia Coppola and a slew of rising movie names.» In 2010, Elbaz launched for Lanvin a mass-market collection with H&M, and proved to be one of the retailer’s most popular annual runway collaboration series. In 2013, he created a much anticipated make-up collection for Lancôme.

Therefore the shock was huge when the announcement came that Elbaz had been let go from the fashion house due to major disagreements on strategy and targeted investment in 2015 with major shareholder Taiwanese businesswoman Shaw-Lan Wang. The house has since changed hands and failed to find its footing.

Shaw-Lan Wang and Alber Elbaz in happier times. Photo: BFA / The Cut

After Elbaz was abruptly fired from Lanvin, the industry has wondered when and how he might return to design full-time. Between then and now, he has turned his hand to designing accessories for LeSportsac, collaborated on a fragrance with luxury perfumer Frédéric Malle, and mentored at prestigious design schools. Recently, the star designer had his comeback For Elbaz, after having skipped several years of shows, watching the fashion industry shift from the sidelines. He designed a capsule collection of bags and shoes for luxury Italian brand Tod’s, called «Happy Moments.» Known for his charming and emotional personality, it couldn’t be a better match.

Alber Elbaz lives it up at Tod’s Happy Moments launch. Photo: Tod’s / Getty

«I like fashion, I like fashion people. But after Lanvin, I did not like fashion,» he told Elle Magazine in September 2019, «I needed to fall in love with fashion again.» To fall back in love with fashion took a lot of time. «Because you have to take a few years distance,» Elbaz continues earnestly.

A shoe from Tod’s Happy Moments collection created by Elbaz.

Now Elbaz has a partner for his next chapter. Today, Richemont  announced an agreement to form a joint venture with the designer, calling it AZfashion, which the Swiss luxury conglomerate described as «an innovative and dynamic start-up, meant to turn dreams into reality.»

As much as the fashion industry has anticipated Elbaz’s return, he and Richemont have their work cut out for them. The announcement about the new brand indicates a completely different approach in this new brand, which the designer told the New York Times will be project-based.

Feminine and dreamy designs: Lanvin F/W 2011 by Alber Elbaz

«Upon hearing Alber Elbaz describe his vision for fashion and the projects it inspires in him, I was again struck by his creativity and insight,» Richemont Chairman Johann Rupert said in a statement. «His talent and inventiveness, with his sensitivity towards women and their wellbeing, will be of great value to our group and its maisons.»

We will all be watching how Elbaz’ vision will transform… I am sure he will let us dream again… something that is desperately needed in today’s fashion world. Fashion should be fun and Elbaz will teach us!

LoL, Sandra

Me in a Lanvin by Alber Elbaz dress, click here for the post.

 Photo: © David Biedert Photography
Photos: Courtesy of the Brands, or otherwise mentioned

Your knitwear is about to get a revamp for a great budget with H&M‘s newest collaboration with Pringle of Scotland. The collection makes clever use of recycled polyester and organic cotton along with cosy alpaca wool and smooth viscose fibres — and is showcased by stylist and fashion editor Julia Sarr-Jamois.

When the design team at H&M was first presented with the idea of a knitwear collaboration, their minds fell immediately on Pringle of Scotland. With the brand’s signature argyle patterns and sporty knitwear pairings on the golf course, Pringle – founded in 1815 – is renowned as one of the oldest luxury knitwear brands in the world.

«We fell completely in love with the brand’s history, from their intimate and modest origins from Hawick, Scotland, to their technical innovation in knitwear», says Holli Parkinson, knitwear designer at H&M.

When the H&M team met with Pringle in their design office in London’s Vincent Square, presenting their initial trend idea to them, they went through the archives and one pattern stood out from the rest: the iconic argyle that has been part of the Pringle of Scotland’s DNA since the 1920s.

«Together with our in-house print team, we reworked different scales and colourways of the argyle. Inspired by streetwear styling and sport influences, we developed new designs around the classic pattern, and introduced an acid yellow colour as a highlight accent which brought the whole collection together», says Holli Parkinson.

The key pieces of the collection include a sweater which boasts a patchwork of tone and texture, splicing a retro-inspired diamond pattern with heavy ribbed wool, and a cropped, funnel-necked jumper with balloon sleeves. Traditional yarns are infused with attitudinal appeal in a series of generously oversized, raw-edged sweaters. Sweater dresses with ring-pull zip closures, cosy hoodies, second-skin leggings and slouchy hats and scarves are all printed with athletic logos for an athleisure take.

The in-house design team at H&M had constant contact with Pringle of Scotland throughout the process, and were able to share thoughts and ideas from sketches to samples.

«Pringle of Scotland has a long history of collaboration, and this latest partnership with H&M has been hugely inspiring. We are always looking for new ways to express the DNA of our heritage knitwear and we hope this latest playful, sporty take on our famous argyle and Fair Isle knitwear will delight our existing customers, as well as reach a worldwide audience via H&M», says Katy Wallace, Brand Director at Pringle of Scotland.

TO SHOP THE PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND x H&M COLLECTION ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of H&M

Incredible women deserve a gift like no other, and they don’t come any more exclusive or special than this. For holiday 2019, NET-A-PORTER offers an edit of Fantasy Gifts including everything from a bespoke shoe experience in Florence with Aquazzura’s Edgardo Osorio, to a luxurious Priesteregg ski retreat and Bogner wardrobe for schussing on the slopes. These limited-edition packages are designed to treat the receiver to once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

The 6 Fantasy Gifts will be available from October 24, and can be purchased through their dedicated Personal Shoppers (If you are an EIP, e-mail your personal shopper now to secure your selection …). Here are all the details for your beforehand (Click on the highlighted text please, to be transferred directly.):

The Ultimate Spa Weekend in Budapest with Omorovicza

• NET-A-PORTER’s beauty team has partnered with Omorovicza to create the ultimate spa experience for two people.
• Including two nights at the stunning Four Seasons Gresham Palace in a River View King Room, with breakfast included and a private driver for the duration of the stay.
• Full body and face treatments, and a bespoke skincare consultation at the Omorovicza Spa plus an additional treatment at the hotel spa
• Guests will receive the entire Omorovicza range delivered to their home, including samples of new products yet to be released.
• Not forgetting to recharge the mind as well as the body, this experience also includes a private boat trip along the Danube, a private sunrise or moonlight visit to the Rudas Thermal Baths and dinner with Omorovicza founders Stephen and Margaret de Heinrich.
• In addition to two box tickets to the Opera and cocktails at private members house in District 6, Brody Studios.
• Limited edition: 3 available globally

The Ultimate Ski Weekend with Bogner

• The NET-A-PORTER team has planned the ultimate ski retreat in an exclusive partnership with German athluxury brand Bogner.
• Available from Friday 10th to Sunday 12th January 2020 and offered with shuttle service from the airport, this trip for two includes two nights at the private Willy Bogner chalet in Priesteregg, which boasts spectacular panoramic views over the valley and surrounding mountains.
• Including two-day ski passes for the Saalbach Hunterglemm Leogang and Bogner ski outfits (including jacket, pants and a first layer) and equipment (including skis, ski sticks, goggles and helmet).
• This trip also includes the ultimate alpine clubbing experience and there’s the option of a helicopter flight over the four-piste network.
• Limited edition: 1 available globally

Jessica McCormack Botanical Heirloom Jewelry Box

• London-based fine jewelry designer Jessica McCormack is offering this exquisite one-of-a-kind jewelry box, inspired by the whimsical tales of Alice in Wonderland and The Secret Garden
• Featuring two velvet-lined trays sectioned into compartments and embroidered with flora and fauna – every bead, thread, and metallic yarn has been hand-stitched by artisans at Hand & Lock, embroiderers to the Royal Family and purveyors of the art since 1767.
• Turning the tasseled key in the lock of the chest reveals a carefully curated collection of 17 of the brands best-selling styles, including six rings, four pairs of earrings, four necklaces, and a single 3.01-carat diamond charm, which you can use to adorn any chain.
• You’ll also have a chance to visit the brand’s Carlos Place townhouse and select the final personalized touches with Jessica herself.
• Limited edition: 1 available globally

The Bespoke Shoe Experience with Aquazzura

• The ultimate gift for shoe lovers, this unique NET-A-PORTER experience provides the chance to visit the home of Aquazzura in Florence and the private studio of founder and designer Edgardo Osorio, located within the historical Palazzo Corsini.
• Accommodation for one is included at the Four Seasons, where you’ll receive flowers, a small gift and a personal handwritten note from Edgardo, as well as a special guide to his favorite places in the city.
• You will have the chance to see his design and creative process first-hand as he creates a customized shoe exclusively for you, and you will receive a signed sketch after the studio visit.
• Edgardo will also host an intimate private luncheon at his home in the Palazzo. Car transfers in the city are also included.
• Limited edition: 3 available globally

The Ultimate Net-à-Porter Party Wardrobe

• Create your dream party closet with this unique NET-A-PORTER experience.
• With the help of a dedicated personal shopper, you’ll enjoy access to What’s New first, exclusive previews and a chance to pre-order the pieces you love.
• Following a personal consultation, our team will work with you on a wardrobe detox to overhaul your collection and make room for key investment items – leaving you to enjoy a wardrobe where everything is meticulously organized and arranged.
• With a personal edit of the season’s most sought-after pieces, you’ll have all that you need for every event, function and dinner in your schedule.
• Limited edition: 3 available globally

The Shoe of the Month Subscription

• Our Fantasy Gifts make the most special and stylish experiences you could ever wish for into a reality.
• This subscription allows you to transform your wardrobe from the feet up with a new pair of beautiful shoes every month – from the ultimate statement shoe to the perfect pump.
• You’ll be assigned your own dedicated personal shopper from NET-A-PORTER’s fashion team, who’ll give you styling advice, tell you exactly what’s trending and grant you access to products before anyone else, along with the power to pre-order.
• Limited edition: 3 available globally

Aren’t all those gifts just amazing? Which one is your favorite! I am curious to hear…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © NET-À-PORTER 

Looking for some Halloween make-up inspiration? Here you go! Bella Hadid reveals her mischievous side for DIOR MAKE-UP with ROUGE DIOR for HALLOWEEN. A spellbinding look in tribute to the most emblematic House of DIOR colour.

Peter Philips, Creative and Image Director for DIOR MAKE-UP, audaciously celebrates red, the «colour of life» according to Mr. Christian Dior and creates a captivating make-up look that is both chic and enigmatic, that works for Halloween and for daily life.

With ardent lips dressed in striking red, glittering eyelids heightened with elegant eyeliner, and a velvet complexion sporting a vivid blush, Bella is transformed into a mesmerizing femme fatale. The Hitchcockian tension between her and the young man Ludwig Wildsdorff is captured by photographer Richard Burbridge.

LoL, Sandra

Photos © DIOR #DIORMAKEUPHALLOWEEN
@DIORMAKEUP @PETERPHILIPSMAKEUP @DIORBEAUTYLOVERS