Sandra‘s Closet

«Working with Les-Ottomans has been a dream project. I love the homeware products they make and was thrilled to be asked to collaborate.» – Matthew Williamson

Former fashion designer Matthew Williamson has joined forces with Les-Ottomans to design a collection of tableware. Launched last fall at Maison & Objet, the collection includes porcelain plates, trays and textiles, each drawing on motifs and designs of peacocks and moons, long associated with Matthew’s design DNA.

The six dinner plates are crafted from porcelain and printed in Portugal. They were inspired by jewellery worn by the Sultans from the Ottoman Empire and updated with a contemporary twist. Rich tones of blue Ikat are the perfect background for the hand drawn, encrusted jewel-like peacocks, moons and stars finished with a delicate gold trim.

Peacocks, Matthew’s signature, are carried through on the trays. The motifs were hand-painted by artisans in India onto serving plates and trays made of iron. The peacock feathers are strikingly rendered in bright, contrasting tones and finished with fine ikat-like brush strokes. Those plates double as fabulous wall decoration.

«Our worlds, references and tastes are similar and the collection that he designed for Les-Ottomans is, not only stunning, but contemporary in the re-interpretation of Les-Ottomans world.»
Bertrando Di Renzo, Founder, Les-Ottomans

Bringing the collection together are the textiles. Uniquely hand drawn and painted textiles have always been a central characteristic of the Matthew Williamson and the Les-Ottomans collection includes cushions, tablecloths and napkins created in a range of mix and match prints for a maximalist and contemporary approach to table dressing.

SHOP THE COLLECTION HERE ON MODA OPERANDI.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Matthew Williamson / Moda Operandi

In case that you have forgotten that it’s Mother’s Day today, I have a last minute gift idea for you. Check out Paperless Post‘s latest collaboration with Carolina Herrrera, that is available for free, just in time to celebrate the woman, that brought you into the world. Surprise her with a personal message sent to her inbox directly and put a smile on her face.

Wes Gordon with me in Dubai last fall at an event with Net-à-Porter 

«I can’t think of a better way to reach out to your loved ones – especially mothers or maternal figures – than with beauty, optimism, and color.» – Wes Gordon, Creative Director Carolina Herrera

CLICK HERE TO BROWSE THE CAROLINA HERRERA MOTHER’S DAY SECTION.

LoL, Sandra

 Photos: Courtesy of Paperless Post

Today’s post is for a good cause, tonight taking place exclusively on Instagram (@thedigitalcarpet), I will wear one of my favorite gowns ever. The Digital Carpet is a live event and everyone can join. No matter where you are, it starts at 7pm sharp and will be a moment of virtual escapism and fashion fairytale mirroring iconic red-carpet moments. Choose a dress code, get ready, send your look and donate to the International Committee of the Red Cross.

For my dear readers, here is my look beforehand. A red stunning gown created by LA-based fashion designer Monique Lhuillier. The daughter of a French diplomat always admired the lavish gowns her mother and other stylish guests would wear to high-profile events, moving her to create her eponymous eveningwear label. Michelle Obama, Taylor Swift and Emma Watson are all fans of the intricately detailed and expertly crafted silhouettes.

My look: Embellished one-sleeve tulle gown by Monique Lhuillier, gold bar clutch bag by CHANEL, gold red crystal scared heart earrings by Dolce & Gabbana, and leather platform pumps by Gucci.

I hope that I will get to wear this gown soon on a real red carpet though and don’t need to wait for Christmas …

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © David Biedert Photography
Location: The Dolder Grand #thedigitalredcarpet #stylesolidarity
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Let us dream a little of careless summer days with this new make-up collection by CHANEL. It’s the promise of an airy and dazzling warm season. The delicious caress of sunlight on skin beaded with seawater. A feeling of freedom, instilled by a sailboat gliding along the coast against the Mediterranean. Inspired by the relaxed lifestyle of the French Riviera, LES BEIGES sets sail this season with an exclusive collection: SUMMER OF GLOW.

LES BEIGES SUMMER OF GLOW shakes up summer with a powerful breeze of freedom. Luminous, it is an infusion of beloved summer light. Delectable warmth on the skin. Lightweight, inspired by the aura and free spirit of Mademoiselle Chanel, this new collection has only one goal in mind: a sun kissed healthy glow that seems revived by the great outdoors.

Lips and eyes are illuminated by warm shades with coral shimmers and energy that shines down to the fingernails in summery colors.

LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW ILLUMINATING POWDER
EXCLUSIVE CREATION – LIMITED EDITION
CHF 75.00

LES BEIGES began with foundation. This season, LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW ILLUMINATING POWDER comes in two shades. Playing with shadows and light, the powder subtly intensifies the features and enhances natural beauty. Lightweight and airy, it gives the complexion a discreet glimmer, accentuated by luminous pigments with golden shimmers. To preserve this instant healthy glow, the formula is completed with hydrating and antioxidant kalanchoe extract.

It can be applied spontaneously in one stroke, at any time of day, with the help of its large mirror and half-moon brush.
Available in 2 shades: Sand – medium light or Sunset – intense

LES BEIGES SHEER HEALTHY GLOW HIGHLIGHTING FLUID
CHF 63.00

A delicately iridescent complexion enhancer, LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW HIGHLIGHTING FLUID lights up face and body with a ray of sunshine. Instantly, its formula embellishes the complexion with a subtle luminous veil for an immediate healthy glow highlighting effect. Skin radiates with vibrant freshness and sunny luminosity.

What could be more delicious than the sensation of bare skin? Like the entire LES BEIGES line, this fluid feels imperceptible. Featherweight, it instantly blends into the skin to reveal its natural radiance. For an instant retouching effect, this embellishing filter enriched with pearly particles enhances skin texture on application.

Radiant skin is also, and above all, pampered skin. This is why this embellishing highlighter
contains 69% water and a marine-origin emollient. The complexion seems lit up from within. In parallel, kalanchoe extract protects skin’s natural beauty.

Ultra-sensorial, it is applied with fingertips, dabbed on to structure the face (the top of the cheekbones, on the cheeks, the bridge of the nose and the Cupid’s bow), or as a makeup base for a natural glow. It can also be used on the décolleté and body to intensify the skin’s radiance.

Available in 2 shades: Pearly Glow – pearly ivory or Sunkissed – pearly bronze

LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW BRONZING CREAM
CHF 63.00

The effects of a golden tan without the risks of prolonged sun exposure… Who could ask for more? SOLEIL TAN puts this sunbathed finish within hand’s reach. This cult product joins the LES BEIGES line and is now called HEALTHY GLOW BRONZING CREAM. Lightweight and extremely soft, this gel-cream becomes one with the skin to reveal its natural beauty. Tanned as if you spent a day in the great outdoors, the complexion dresses up in sunny radiance. Skin is delicately velvety and features are smoothed.

Surprisingly lightweight yet dense, and easy to blend, its texture embraces the skin and disappears. It contains just the right balance of natural-origin wax for melt-away application and mineral powders for a healthy glow effect. In parallel, kalanchoe extract preserves the
beauty of the complexion.

Easy to take from its generous jar, it glides on with a KABUKI brush, wherever the sun naturally touches the skin: the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin. Workable and easy to apply, the cream can be used to structure the facial contours (smoothed under cheekbones with circular movements) or for an allover look (dabbed on and blended in, from the middle of the face outwards).

Available in one shade: Soleil Tan Bronze Universelle – pearly bronze

LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW NATURAL EYESHADOW PALETTE
CHF 78.00

A sunny healthy glow is ensured by a radiant complexion, but also fresh eyes. This is why the LES BEIGES SUMMER OF GLOW collection includes a new HEALTHY GLOW NATURAL EYESHADOW PALETTE harmony. A palette of five colors, as warm as the landscapes of the Mediterranean coast, and easy to wear and combine. With shimmering tones, each eyeshadow recalls a relaxed and radiant summer: a soft cream beige, a soft and satiny peach beige, a coral with golden and pink sparkles, a peach coral, a taupe brown… A color chart of eyeshadows inspired by gleams of sunlight and luminous sunbeams.

Whether darker or lighter, satin or matte, all five eyeshadows of the palette have a creamy, melt-away texture. Comfortable and longwear, they blend seamlessly together, gliding so easily over the skin that they can be applied with fingertips or a brush.

Multipurpose, the palette can be used as a base or eyeshadow. The eyeshadows can be used on their own or combined. It’s foolproof. The palest shade catches the light at the corner of the eyes and beneath the brows. As for the darkest shade, it can be applied as liner along the base of lower lashes or on the brows to densify them.

Available in one shade: Warm – a delicate cream beige, a soft and satiny peach beige, a coral with golden and pink sparkles, a peach coral and a taupe brown.

LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW LIP BALM
CHF 48.00

The sea, the sun, the freedom of the great outdoors, nature, the Mediterranean… All of these elements, dear to Gabrielle Chanel, bring a smile to one’s face. This year, with LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW LIP BALM, lips dress up in a sheer and luminous coral.

With its creamy, melt-away texture, enriched with moringa butter and a Vitamin E derivative, this balm nourishes, protects and envelops lips in delightful comfort. Composed of emollient oils, its extreme hydrating power perfectly cares for the lips and further protects them against dryness. After the first application, lips are smooth, soft and delicately tinted with a fresh and luminous finish.

Available in one shade: Warm – a luminous coral

LES BEIGES LE VERNIS
CHF 33.00

Their colors bring to mind a sun-drenched apricot or a sugary raspberry. The two new vibrant shades of the season are little treats to help you shine down to your fingertips. In this LES BEIGES collection, LE VERNIS de CHANEL offers brilliant color that lasts for days on end. Ultra-resilient, thin and shiny, the coat of color ensures a very long-lasting and even result.

Available in 2 shades: Cruise – vibrant coral and Sailor – pink coral

In stores in the end of June 2020.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © CHANEL

When you look in your mother’s eyes, you know that is the purest love you can find on this earth. Your mum is your first friend, your best friend, your forever friend. Sunday is Mother’s Day, time to appreciate the most amazing woman I’ll always admire, appreciate and love.

Personally speaking, I have a very deep bond with my mum. Her eyes looked after me all my life and this inspired me to today’s gifting idea. Why not surprise your mum with a great eye care product or / and a pair of sunglasses, telling her how thankful you are to have her in your life.

It was love at first sight because we have all been loving our mums the second we opened our eyes for the first time. Even if you cannot be with your mum physically like me due to the current worldwide crisis, you can still surprise her with a gift sent to her directly. Just click on the highlighted product description to be transferred to the respective shop.

LoL, Sandra

The Eye Concentrate by La Mer
My avid readers know that I am a huge a fan of this newly formulated product. With triple the Concentrated Miracle Broth™, it helps transform the delicate eye area with essential energy and healing hydration to reduce the look of dark circles, lines and wrinkles in 3 weeks. Lime tea concentrate, the antioxidant powerhouse, helps prevent future damage before it begins.
Theprocedure is top secret, rumors are they play classical music to the kelp-based elixir for three months as it ferments. No matter how they do it, the formula’s anti-aging effects are truly undeniable.

Cat-eye neon-trimmed printed tortoisehell acetate sunglasses by Fendi
For the mum, who loves everything fashion like me, those sunglasses feature both, the monogram and neon trend in one.

Eye Rescue Stick by Susanne Kaufmann
The perfect new tool for the spa-loving mum as she can apply the stick whenever she wants during the day. Stored in the fridge, it can deliver an even more intense cooling effect. The product counteracts the appearance of puffiness and dark circles, energizing tired-looking eyes caused by blue light and smoothes various visible signs of aging like first wrinkles.

Green coffee extract reduces swelling around the eyes, while jasmine and hawthorn activate the enzyme telomerase in the skin cells and unleash antioxidative properties. A highly concentrated active ingredient from baobab helps to smooth out crow’s feet and fine lines. Ectoin increases cell protection and an antioxidant from larch bark leaves the eyes with a fresh glow.

Eye Cream Line A by Susanne Kaufmann
Powered by a combination of active botanical ingredients like white lupine and elderberry extract, this brightening treatment stimulates collagen production to improve firmness while simultaneously reducing any puffy areas.

Oversized aviator-style gold-tone sunglasses by Givenchy
Those clean frames look very sophisticated.

Eye Cream by Dr. Barbara Sturm
If your mum is into a thorough medical understanding of cells and anti-aging, she will love Dr. Barbara Sturm’s beauty products. Designed to target dark circles, this ultra hydrating eye cream has been specially developed in her German lab with purslane and golden root to lift the sensitive areas around the eyes and reduce puffiness. It’s also infused with active omega lipids that help skin retain moisture. Personally speaking, I love its pudding-like consistency.

D-frame acetate sunglasses by Bottega Veneta
Those sleek shades will work for pretty much any occasion.

Black Rose Eye Contour Fluid by SISLEY PARIS
The rose is the queen of the flowers, and this fluid features black rose aqueous extract for a radiant complexion and hydrating padina pavonica. Specially formulated for everyday use on the delicate eye area, it is fitted with a soothing ceramic applicator, that with regular use, reduces puffiness and dark circles, leaving behind a luminous, youthful-looking glow.

Paris oversized cat-eye zebra-print acetate sunglasses by Balenciaga
Animal prints are always in style and worn as sunglasses in an oversized cat-eye silhouette, they add some drama to every look. 

Luminary Genius Eye Cream by Bynacht
Between the hours of 11pm and 4am our skin’s renewal rate almost doubles – with no exposure to environmental aggressors or makeup, the dermis can absorb nutritional ingredients without any interference. Perfect for targeting signs of aging and tiredness around the eyes, Bynacht’s specially formulated cream is infused with persian silk tree extract and nourishing oils that repair and hydrate while you sleep.

Air Heart cat-eye acetate and gold-tone sunglasses by Le Specs
Slightly oversized, the blacked-out lenses will complement practically all of your mum’s outfits.

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands – Photo of me: © David Biedert Photography
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Doting love is when you are extremely and uncritically fond of someone, something a mother feels for her child. In German, we call this behavior «Affenliebe» which translates into monkey love. According to some scientists, these intense, special exchanges that human mothers share with their offspring might have deep roots all the way back in monkeys. Both species use the same gestures and affectionate behaviors towards their children. When I was a little girl, I learnt a lot about primates as my mother, who is the biggest animal rights activist you can imagine, is totally fond of those animals.

As Mother’s Day is coming up and the tropical trend is huge this summer, I would like to dedicate today’s post to all those amazing fashionable pieces featuring those cute little monkeys. I am sure that not only my mum will go bananas seeing them.

And in case you are wondering why I didn’t call the post «monkey love», here is the answer. In the urban dictionary this expression stands for crazy animalistic sex requiring acrobatic poise. It can also be termed «monkey lovin‘». Isn’t it funny how you can go wrong just translating a word correctly?

LoL, Sandra

Monkey-print halterneck silk top by Bottega Veneta

Monkey crystal-embellished brooch by Erdem

Sequinned monkey-appliqué wool-blend dress by Valentino

Monkey diamond, opal, silver & 18kt gold earrings by Bibi van der Velden

Jungle-appliqué embroidered knit sweater by Valentino

Monkeys Forest print poplin dress by Valentino
Monkey-appliquéd T-shirt by Valentino

Monkey print twill cape by Burberry

Scarf tie point-toe mules by Burberry

Monkey print chain-strap cardholder by Burberry

Killer monkey print swimsuit by Dsquared2

Medium monkey jacquard TB shoulder bag by Burberry

Drawstring monkey print jacket by Burberry

Soleia printed cotton-voile pajama set by Desmond & Dempsey

Scimmie Thyme, Lavender and Cedarwood scented candle by Fornasetti

Avantgardening satin bedding by Christian Fischbacher

Equateur wallpaper by Hermès

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

As promised, please enjoy today’s detailed post about Déesse Pro, the original market leading LED phototherapy mask that is available at Sonja Frey Soni Cares. I know that this Hannibal Lecter-esque light-up mask looks quite funny, definitely very instagrammable. However, Alessandro Michele showed similar shapes (only as accessories) on the runway for this Gucci F/W 2019 collection so it seems to be quite fashionable.

No joking, here are the hard facts why I have become such a big fan. Light therapy provides a safe, pain-free way to achieve naturally vibrant and clearer skin. I have been using this tool for over four weeks and am truly impressed about its results. My complexion looked already brighter, tighter and smoother from the very first 10-minute use.

How does it work? The device uses low-level light therapy (LLLT) by way of medical-grade, surface-mounted, light emitting diodes (LEDs) in 4 variations to expose the skin to clinically proven 4 wavelengths of light, delivered at safe, therapeutic doses. These clinically proven treatments rejuvenate skin and improve the most problematic skin conditions.

Stars such as Kim Kardashian, Kate Perry, Madonna and US celebrity facialist Shani Darden already swear by it. Interesting to know is that NASA originally developed it for plant growth experiments on shuttle missions and later found it to have promise for wound treatment.

CHOICE OF 6 TREATMENT MODES

ANTI-AGEING – Red Light (630nm)
• Increases the production of collagen and elastin
• Help reduces fine lines
• Improves skin texture and tone
• Increases the skins natural hydration
• Stimulates circulation and lymphatics
• Revitalise the complexion
• Restores the skin radiance

PURIFYING – Blue Light (415nm)
• Improves skin clarity
• Blemish fighting action without irritation
• Helps regulate natural oil production
• Helps spot prone skin

BRIGHTENING – Green Light (520nm)
• Reduces the production of melanin
• Lightens and reduces existing pigmentation
• Improves the skin complexion
• Neutralises, balances and calms skin

POST PROCEDURE – Near Infrared Light (830nm)
• Boosts metabolism as more ATP produced
• Rejuvenates the skin
• Promotes circulation
• Promotes scar healing
• Improves loose, sagging skin
• Increases skin elasticity five-fold
• Reduces collagen loss
plus Red Light (630nm) plus Blue Light (415nm)

CALMING – Green Light (520nm) plus Blue Light (415nm)

ANTI-AGEING EXPRESS – Red Light (630nm)

This intensive treatment replicates salon-like facials from the comfort of your own home. You can choose for example between 10, 20 or 30 minute treatment sessions, between manual and pre-programmed options. A light protection for the eyes is delivered with the mask.

What else could you wish for while being in quarantine? Make time for yourself to practice self-care. Mood-boosting moments that offer some respite during these difficult time. During the past weeks, applying the phototherapy mask has become a fantastic and addictive ritual for me. While I am doing the treatment, I listen to meditation podcasts or sound baths to soothe my mind. I totally recommend taking part in Jasmine Hemsley’s Instagram Live sound baths every Saturday evening (@jasminehemsley). This time for myself has had such a positive effect on both my mind and my body, let alone how much my skin improved.

You will be amazed how many more positive effects this tool can give you. Please enjoy this little interview with Sonja Frey, who carries the mask in her online shop.

Light therapy is said to treat all sorts of skin conditions but it can even help with depression or sleep disorders. Could the Déesse PRO LED Mask help with this as well?
Yes, LED Light therapy of any kind is known to improve depression and sleep disorders as it improves the serotonin.

Can I use the mask also in other parts of my body such as the stomach or the knees for example for rejuvenation of the skin or to treat allergies?
Yes, the mask can be used on the body to treat other conditions i.e Acne on the back or Psoriasis on the legs etc (however, we wouldn’t recommend using Near Infrared – the lightening bolt button of the Mask – on these skin conditions).

 Can I use the mask also in combination with a facial mask under it?
The mask producer itself would always recommend to use the mask on a clean dry skin to maximise light absorption. A facial mask could be used pre or post treatment to maximise the outcome.
A lot of facial therapist do put a facial product first and then put on the mask.

What happens if the LEDs don’t work anymore, can I exchange them?
LEDs are not like normal bulbs, they do not have a«‚lifespan», it is rare for LED to just stop working. Also, the mask has a 1 year warranty from the date of original purchase.

Can I burn myself with this mask? Are there any side effects?
No, it is not possible to burn yourself with the mask, as you aren’t using UV rays. LED light therapy doesn’t cause burns compared to other anti-aging treatments such as chemical peels, dermabrasion, and laser therapy. It may be safe for all skin colors and types as LEDs are visible light rays and there are no known side effects.

If I use the green light, can I still get a tan?
The green light does not effect tanning. Even if you have a tan already, it won’t fade away and you will still be able to tan after using it. LEDs are not used as a source of tanning, because they do not emit UV rays. However the green light will calm your melanocyte activity and break down existing melanin clusters to improve hyperpigmentation.

What is your favorite treatment mode and why?
My favorites are Mode 1 for anti-ageing and collagen boost and Mode 2 for purifying depending on my personal needs. I usually combine Mode 1 with any other procedure to get the full spectrum, from  accelerating tissue repair to reducing inflammation or pore shrinking.

Do I need the light protection for the eyes? Or can I just leave my eyes closed?
I would always recommend protecting your eyes as a precaution either with the goggles provided or damp cotton rounds. Please ensure that you keep your eyes closed at all times.

The treatments come in two intensities. For whom is the higher intensity recommended?  In case I don’t have enough time, can I get the same results with a high intensity treatment of 15 minutes than with a low intensity treatment of 30 minutes?
The intensity mode refers to near infrared, which acts as a boost for your cell energy as it is optimizing the skin. It also has great healing powers as it stimulates the production of collagen and elastin to minimize skin aging. NIR does increase the heat in the skin, therefore for a sensitive skin keep the intensity on low. I would always recommend using the mask for a minimum of 15 minutes and a maximum of 30 Minutes, at least 2 times a week.

You will have to see for yourself how amazing the effects of light therapy are. This mask will help you find your inner peace through relaxation while boosting your complexion and providing you with beautiful, young-looking skin at the same time.

YOU CAN SHOP THE DÉESSE PRO PHOTOTHERAPY MASK AT SONJA FREY HERE.

LoL Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Déesse Pro and Sonja Frey Soni Cares
© Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: When you make a purchase, I am not receiving a commission. I am just a big fan of the product!

The barely there sandals that wrap around your ankles have already reached cult status. Bottega Veneta‘s version from their Resort 2020 collection is the one we keep seeing on feeds right now. The shoes instantly became a viral hit for the clever styling trick (see trouser tuck) that ruled the street style scene throughout the early months of the year. Personally speaking, I love it so much, the perfect way to wear pants that are too long without having to cut them off. I will post an outfit with them this week, so please stay tuned!

In the meantime, enjoy those beautiful sandals seen on the runways and my favorites this season below, secure yours by clicking on the highlighted description.

LoL, Sandra

Wrap-around snake-effect leather sandals by Bottega Veneta

Cleo crystal-embellished leather sandals by René Caovilla

Opera 120 leather sandals by Gianvito Rossi

Cleo embellished metallic satin and leather sandals by René Caovilla

Cleo crystal-embellished leather sandals with small heel by René Caovilla

Snake-effect leather sandals by Bottega Veneta

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands and © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Today, I would like to introduce you to Swiss beauty entrepreneur Sonja Frey. I first met her at a wedding in Tuscany last summer and was immediately impressed by her beautiful skin and complexion. The 38-year old, who resides in Zurich, founded her online shop in 2019. Originally under the name Uniquare, she changed it this year to Sonja Frey Soni Cares.

Her catchy slogan, that plays with her nick name, «Soni Cares», stays also for her personal passion behind her brand. Over the years, the charming blonde developed a huge knowledge of everything organic and natural when it comes to skincare. After helping friends and family in finding the right products, she decided to take it to the next level with the launch of her beautiful online shop. Only health and beauty products that meet her high standard of quality, eco-friendliness, and clean ingredients are included. You will find brands of all price categories, as for her it’s not about the price tag, but the quality of each hand selected product. Great news is that Sonja ships internationally. Let us surprise you!

On your website, I read that you were a trained attorney-at-law before launching your online shop. Can you tell us a little why you decided to become an entrepreneur and what were the biggest challenges?

I still work as an attorney-at-law on an independent basis. The wish to become an entrepreneur has been in my mind for a long time. As I started to realise that toxic ingredients are used for so many  beauty products, I started to do more and more research and became very passionate about this subject. In the end I decided that I wanted to help others to easily navigate through the beauty jungle out there and find all the great products on one website. That’s how I started my shop.

What would be the best advice after becoming an entrepreneur to give to your younger self at the beginning?

Follow your dreams! It’s the best way to actually find a job or build a business which will last and be successful in the end. Only when you are really passionate about what you are doing, you will go the extra mile and people will believe in what you are doing.

Even Sonja’s dog Mimi is crazy for the GLO Precision Eye Pencil

Last year, you gave birth to your first child. How do you manage to combine both, being a businesswoman and a mother?
A very good question. I can give you the answer in 10 years:-). My baby girl is 11 months old, it does get easier. Of course it is hard to find time for everything, however as I believe in following your dreams, you can make anything happen.

How did you find the brands you are selling?

It all started with a personal passion (and addiction) to find the best brands for myself. So I started researching and researching and researching… During my travels for example, I was always checking the spas and local shops for their products, exploring their ideas about beauty, their philosophy. It is a continuing journey and really an addiction, I cannot stop looking for good brands, I am still doing so to expand my collection. I truly love all the products I am selling.

What is the common thread?

All brands work on a natural basis, are cruelty-free, non-toxic or anything similar. I am convinced that we all should reduce chemicals as much as possible in our lives, and only use them where they are really necessary. Most of the time, we forget our bathroom shelf. I was absolutely shocked once I learned about the ingredients that my former beauty products included, such as Polyethylene for example, a common component of plastics. This so-called microplastic is included in so many products, especially in facial scrubs, face wash or hands soaps among others. Besides being a primary concern for your health, those very small pieces also pollute the environment.

What is your own beauty routine?

I try to keep it simple, not too many products at once but change of routine/products from time to time:
– Morning: 1. cleaning, 2. face serum or cream depending on the season, 3. eye cream 4. sunscreen (always!)
– Evening: 1. cleaning, 2. serum/night cream or night mask, 3. eye cream

Do you have a beauty hack that you like to share with us?

Puh, I would say less is more. Don’t try to overdo it, give your skin time to breathe and use the right products, as natural as possible including some key ingredients. For example Vitamin C & A are great for the skin. I recommend the Vitamin C Treatment from NUORI and the Vitamin A Cream from SKINDESIGNLONDON, the latter will soon be available, so please stay tuned.

Sonja’s favorites

What are your favorite products on your website? Products we shouldn’t miss and why…

– Of course the Déesse Pro LED Mask, because it is the only beauty tool that replaces a treatment from a professional cosmetician.
– The Lumion Face Mist. I love it, especially at the moment, due to its antibacterial effects. It helps before an acne breakout and provides you with a clean face whenever you need it.
– The Regulatpro Hyaluron Anti Aging Drink. As we all know, beauty also comes from within. This is my daily dose of highly effective hyaluronic acid which naturally beautifies the skin, connective tissue, hair and nails.
– The Natural Perfumes from Dedcool LA. They smell fantastic and combine highest quality with natural ingredients. They are vegan, non-toxic, contain no palates, no parabens, no carcinogens and cruelty-free.
– GLO Pressed Base Powder. For me the best powder I tried so far, as your skin can breathe and it includes no harmful ingredients.
– FÎ-NE Deodorant Vetvier Geranium. Deodorants without aluminium salts are much better for your health and absolutely trendy at the moment. However, it is hard to find a good one that works and provides day-long protection. That’s why I like this one and its smell in Vetvier Geranium is divine.
– The Kokoso Coconut Oil for me and my little girl. It can be applied easily, is all natural with healing effects and can be used all over your body as often as you like. My absolute favourite coconut oil.
– If your budget is a bit higher, you will love the JK7 Golden Face Oil, it’s amazing. This beauty brand is a class of its own, very high performing and all natural. Once you have tried it, you will know what I am talking about.
But on my site, there are so many more amazing products, I could go on and on.

Do you use the Déesse PRO LED Mask on a regular base? Can you tell us a little more about this product?

The Déesse Pro LED Mask is where it all started for me. I was in the US for a few months and every cosmetic studio had a light therapy offering. I stumbled over the Déesse PRO LED Mask as it was the best one on the market and I found out that all stars and their cosmetic studios use this mask, like Shani Darden in LA for example. Of course, I needed to have it. Coming back to Switzerland, my friends were really interested to get to know this mask and as shipping to Switzerland was not possible at this time, I partnered up with the brand to do their exclusive retail here.

Ever since I got it in 2018, I use it on a very regular basis, sometimes daily, sometimes once a week, depending on my schedule. The good thing about the mask for me is, that I can also use it while watching TV. However, be careful, Déesse Masking in front of the TV is not for everyone, if you have sensitive eyes stay away from this. So what else can I say about this product. Maybe one thing, for me it was very interesting to find out that even NASA did some color studies and found out that this actually works. I still can’t believe that it is not yet popular in Switzerland. I am sure this will change.

Sonja Frey – a true pioneer when it comes to natural beauty

Sonja Frey in three words (adjectives).

Young, free and wild – haha, jokes aside: loving, intuitive, caring.

Thank you, Sonja, for sharing your beauty tips and experience with us!

As you know me, I always try things for myself to give you the best report possible. I have used the Déesse Pro LED Mask now for over 4 weeks and the results are truly amazing. I was blown away myself. Stay tuned, as I will post the detailed article about this beauty tool and light therapy in general shortly.

LoL, Sandra

Instagram @soniafrey.sonicares
Photos: © Sonja Frey

Go Girl! It has been raining now almost over a week and you better be back in boots and shell jackets. This Alexander Wang denim look includes two of the coolest pieces I have in my closet, a very tight denim shirt and those hot pants that are layered to look as though you have a denim jacket tied around your waist.

For my very attentive readers who have been asking me why I am enjoying two different pools. The answer is simple, I am currently in between houses. My fiancé and I are reconstructing our new home and we will be moving in in the end of the year.

Let me know if you would be interested in seeing the interior design process. Dressing myself or a home is something I truly love to do. And our new house will be so amazing.

My look: Belted shell jacket and buckled leather and shell platform boots, both by Prada, textured leather-trimmed denim shirt and tie-front distressed denim shorts, both by Alexander Wang, Boy bag with chains by CHANEL, and plissé sunglasses by Dolce Gabbana.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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