Sandra‘s Closet

London nights are the best. I love those British vibes that combine tradition with trendy joyfulness. Here you see me leaving my hotel, The London EDITION, that I can absolutely recommend, as well the Berners Tavern restaurant inside.

My look: Off-the-shoulder double-breasted wool-twill coat by Valentino, lace-trimmed point d’esprit tulle and plissé-chiffon mini dress by Dolce & Gabbana, Kate Botta Alta stretch-suede over-the-knee boots by Christian Louboutin, and Broadway lurex floral jacquard clutch by Gucci.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Sinbad Phgura @sinbadphgura
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One month ago, it was my birthday and I turned 47. People sometimes wonder why I am so honest with my age. Why shouldn’t I be? It is nothing to be ashamed of. There’s so much to be grateful for. In the recent shadow of many lives cut short, we all understand how fleeting and precious life is. I am proud of my achievements, of all the great memories I built, of all the blessings I received. Each year of life and experience is wisdom gained, lessons learned, and perspective broadened. I find it actually also quite fun to tell people my age because they are mostly very astonished and think that I am much younger.

Blame it to my slim figure, or my facial structure, that might be genetic, but there is one thing that I have been doing since forever and that is taking care of my skin! It is called skinvestment, the action of investing time, money, and effort on skincare routine in order to bring out a healthier skin.

I have been using – as you all know – LA MER products since many years and especially love the Genaissance de la Mer™ line. At first glance, it is an exquisite collection that promises to disrupt the evolution of time. But on a deeper look, this innovative collection is more than a luxurious proposition against the effects of aging. It is a research-based approach that goes beyond the façade to bring the science to the fore, and new empirical testing that yields results such as deep lines measurably reduced, and other signs of aging targeted by specific technology and ingredients. In a clinical study, 100% of panelists showed a measurable reduction in the appearance of fine lines (clinical testing on 26 women, after using the product for 8 weeks.)

Skincare should be fun and Genaissance is the ultimate sensorial experience, while helping to accelerate skin renewal, and addressing the visible effects of time. Usher with me in a new era of Genaissance where the science of beauty is considered, and agelessness knows no bounds.

Genaissance de la Mer™
The Infused Lotion

Unique blend of milky and watery lotion to strengthen and hydrate skin

• Prepares skin for the power of the Genaissance de la Mer™ collection
• Hydrates, softens, nourishes, and strengthens skin
• Leaves skin feeling balanced and comforted and looking healthier and more youthful

Genaissance de la Mer™
The Serum Essence

Ultimate accelerated renewal to visibly address all signs of time

• Visibly diminishes lines & wrinkles to reveal youthful, renewed skin
• Lifts & firms the looks of skin and helps strengthen skin’s barrier / density
• Visibly minimizes pores and smoothes texture
• Leaves skin with a more even tone and translucence appearance.

Genaissance de la Mer™
Eye and Expression Cream

Targets signs of aging in eye and expression areas

• Visibly softens all signs of time including the look of dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines, leaving skin looking renewed and more youthful
• Expression areas such as the forehead, smile, and laugh lines appear more plumped and smooth
• Skin looks less puffy, more lifted and feels soft and soothes around expression areas

Genaissance de la Mer™
The Concentrated Night Balm

Accelerated renewal, comfort and strength over night

• Helps skin rebuild natural collagen and elastin to strengthen its Extracellular Matrix, so lines and wrinkles appear diminished and skin feels firmer while skin is in overnight restorative mode
• Deep hydration plumps and softens skin so it looks smoother and more radiant
• Rapidly strengthens skin’s barrier to help protect skin from the stresses of the day to come

I recommend trying the The Genaissance de la Mer™ Discovery Collection set that is available on counters and online here. It is great starter set to experience the full range.

The set includes:
15ml GDLM Infused Lotion
30ml GDLM Serum Essence
5ml GDLM Eye & Expression Cream
5ml GDLM Night Balm
Price CHF 705.00

Your Genaissance routine should be followed by your favorite LA MER moisturizer. If you need help in finding the right texture, click here please for a previous post.

Great news is that I have a special promo code for you: use VSASANDRALAMER at check-out. You will receive CHF 40 off any purchase of minimum CHF 200. This code is a one time use and not combinable with other offers or codes. It works only in the Swiss La Mer website and is valid until February 28, 2022.

In case you have any specific question about my skin care, please send me an e-mail to with the header «skin care».

And, ladies, please don’t forget! Getting older is not something to fear or be embarrassed about. It’s a collection of experiences, lessons, and the adventures that have made you who you are. There’s a freedom that comes from getting older as a woman, even if it means accepting some changes to your body. It’s your aura that counts. If you feel good, you will steal the show. Trust me on that one.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © David Biedert Photography
DISCLOSURE: This is a paid collaboration with LA MER and a heartfelt message from me.
@lamer #LaMer #LoveLaMer #GenaissancedelaMer

It is a HACK! Finally I am wearing those beautiful heels and the fun Hourglass bag from the famous Hacker Project, merging the iconic silhouettes and codes of Balenciaga and Gucci.

My look: GG-logo jacquard single-breasted wool jacket, GG-jacquard wool waistcoat, GG-jacquard wool straight-leg trousers, GG and heart crystal-embellished choker, The Hacker Project square Knife pump, and The Hacker Project small Hourglass bag, all by Gucci. Big Bang All Black Zermatt by Hublot.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
The photos were taken at the Dolder Grand.
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In 1991, the Cape Cod watch was born beneath the bold pencil strokes of Henri d’Origny. With its «square in a rectangle” case formed by two «anchor chain» half-links, Cape Cod now welcomes a dial with a singular aesthetic uniting and revealing two ordinarily distinct worlds.

In 2018, Hermès initiated a meeting with the Neuchâtel-based Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology (CSEM) as part of its search for a technological innovation that would be dedicated to creativity. This gave rise to a project for a dial made from a silicon wafer, which was to feature the intimate and refined «Crépuscule» (dusk) motif by designer-graphic artist Thanh-Phong Lê.

Used in microelectronics for its semiconductor properties, the silicon wafer was chosen here for its purely aesthetic qualities, representing a first. Depending on the amount of material deposited during production, its colour varies across an infinite palette of subtle and unique shades. This highly technological process is carried out by specialised engineers in the CSEM labs.

The dials of the Cape Cod crépuscule are created from a single 0.5 mm thick plate, which is coated in an extremely precise manner with a tiny (72-nanometre) film of silicon nitride to obtain the desired intense blue colour.

Then comes the photolithography stage, during which the wafer is exposed to a blue light so as to print the pattern. The process involves several successive baths, before the gold-coating stage, followed by other baths to remove any superfluous material. Finally, the plate is precisely cut to the shape of the Cape Cod case.

The dial with its slender gilded hands reveals the bluish shades sprinkled with yellow gold achieved by this unique method combining creativity and nanotechnology. A navy blue calfskin single or double tour strap crafted in the Hermès Horloger workshops sets the final touch to the Cape Cod crépuscule watch.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Joël Von Allmen, David Marchon © Hermès, 2022
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Last weekend, I followed NET-A-PORTER and Purdey‘s invitation to go to the English countryside for a day of clay shooting – something that I had never done before. Being a very good customer at the online shopping destination means you get invited to very special experiences and this one was one of them.

As you might imagine, I was very excited about this trip and what to dress. I googled «Duchess of Cambridge in the countryside» and this inspired me to this country style look. As my house is still a big construction side, it became pretty challenging to find the boxes with my wellington boots and rain coats in storage. However I managed!

It’s important to dress appropriately, to make sure you stay warm, and dry throughout. You won’t have fun if you’re soaked through on the first drive, nor will you enjoy yourself if your swing is being hindered by your Mackintosh. I really liked my outfit that I put together with many layers that were comfortable and warm. A detailed post will follow.

Founded in England in 1814, James Purdey & Sons, or simply Purdey, is a British gunmaker based in London, specialising in high-end bespoke sporting shotguns and rifles. Purdey holds three Royal Warrants of appointment as gun and rifle makers to the British and other European royal families. The company also produces ready-to-wear and accessories.

Twinning with my lovely Alli from the Net-à-Porter team.

Being always at the forefront of advances in the design and building of guns and rifles, Purdey took out several patents for technical innovations over the years, of which many were adopted by other gunmakers.

In 1882 the company moved from Oxford Street to new premises on the corner of South Audley Street and Mount Street, where the company remains to this day.

Whilst James Purdey & Sons is best known as a maker of shotguns, it also produces rifles, both double-barrelled and bolt-action. The guns are custom-made, largely by hand. They are extremely expensive. A new Purdey shotgun starts at around £89000 and can be customized with special engravings. This one in the photo above costs around £120000.

In 2018, Purdey acquired the Royal Berkshire Shooting Group, which includes also the The Royal Berkshire Shooting School where the event took place. Located around 1.5 hours from Central London, the Shooting School is recognized as the finest facility of its kind, employing eight full time, professional shooting instructors and having one of the most expansive shooting grounds in the country.

As this was my first time shooting, I was accompanied by an instructor who provided me with the safety measures and guided me round the school to make sure I could access the full range of stands that are on offer. Shooting can become very addictive. I hit the clay on my third trial and was over the moon.

I had so much fun with Alli and Harry from my Net-à-Porter family.

Shooting is a sociable sport. It is best shared among friends, old or new. I loved spending the day together with my Net-à-Porter family and getting to know new people.

When the wind turned up, it got pretty chilly and I was very thankful for the warm tea and for the lovely lunch after the clay shooting. A huge thank you to Iona and her team for the great organization.

I had an amazing day filled with unforgettable memories.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Alberta Ferretti and Wolford collaborate on the creation of a collection that tells a story of strength, femininity and sensuality through the eye of tradition, craftsmanship and the excellence of Made in Italy. The collaboration consists of ten styles available in the neutral colours of white, black, and powder pink, which translate into a cleanliness capable of revealing the precision of the graphics and the workmanship. The collection is available now here.

The beautiful campaign was photographed by Rafael Pavarotti.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Wolford #AlbertaFerrettixWolford
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To facilitate both a search for inner balance and outer strength, Miu Miu introduces a capsule collection of sport accessories. Central to the offering are yoga matts and bricks, a drawstring gym pouch, boxing gloves and water bottles.

Designed in soft pink and classic black, both with white stripe detailing, these accessories feature adjustable webbed straps for ease carrying cross body or over the shoulder, and are branded with the instantly recognisable Miu Miu logo – a symbol of empowered femininity and belonging to a community of like-minded, free-spirited souls.
Miu Miu Workout is available at selected Miu Miu stores worldwide and online at miumiu.com.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Miu Miu
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Looking to make a statement? Do you believe in love at first sight? You might just after seeing those amazing pieces by Christian Louboutin. Those amazing fetish illustrations and Pin-up prints were created exclusively for the French House by artist Doctor Bored.

Fetish de Desert 100 leather sandals

A leather accessory is definitely one of the quickest way to my heart.
SAY IT WITH A RED SOLE!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Christian Louboutin
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For over a hundred years Acqua di Parma has represented the art and crafts of fragrances. This passion allowed the Maison to create fragrant compositions that vibrate with emotions and unravel unique narratives. Like Colonia, the masterpiece of the iconic Maison. A timeless, lively, modern fragrance, embodying the genuine and radiant Italian style.

Each fragrance of the Signatures of the Sun Collection, reinterpreted through the sun-filled citrus prism of Colonia, turns a familiar ingredient into something experienced for the very first time, revealing it in all its unexpected and vibrant radiance. Thanks to its olfactory experiences, this collection is a continuous surprise. Lily of the Valley, floral and delicate, and Oud & Spice, woody and intense.

LILY OF THE VALLEY
The radiant spring flower is the first one to bloom with its corollas in bunches in spring and to absorb the gentle rays of the sun, radiating a perfumed trail which envelopes in a feeling of joyous rebirth.
This sun-filled fragrance enhances the appeal of this delicate and highly perfumed flower.

Top notes: Bergamot, Grapefruit and Black Currant
Middle notes: Lily-of-the-Valley, Geranium, Jasmine and Magnolia
Base notes: Cedar and Musk

OUD & SPICE
Oud & Spice stems from the passion for one of the rarest and most mysterious ingredients that nature offers us: an uncut diamond, with a very rich perfume, which can reveal infinite facets and sensations. A fragrance inspired by the love for an extraordinary gem that can reveal new and surprising and at the same time strong and tender aspects. In fact, Oud & Spice originates around the rarest and most highly-prized variety of agarwood, obtained from the resin of the Aquilaria tree. This particularly highly-prized ingredient which, native to Laos, differs from the classic oud for its seductive roundness.

Top notes: Rose, Raspberry and Bergamot
Middle notes: Cloves, Pink Pepper and Cinnamon
Base notes: Agarwood (Oud), Labdanum and Patchouli

Both fragrances are available in the 20, 100 and 180ml formats.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Acqua di Parma
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Last night, I was invited by Sisley Paris to a wonderful dinner at Widder hotel in Zurich to celebrate the launch of an amazing addition to the Supremÿa collection which is the culmination of all Sisley’s expertise. Christian Stannek, Training Manager Sisley Schweiz, introduced us to the  Supremÿa family and its newest addition in a very fun and captivating way.

Christian Stannek explained the newest launch during the dinner at the Widder hotel.

The line brings together day, night and eye contour care: Three exceptional anti-ageing products to effectively combat the signs of skin ageing. They are unique in that they act overnight as cell regeneration takes place. They can therefore be applied in the evening before bed for more beautiful skin in the morning.

At their heart is Phyto-Complex LC12, a powerful blend of plant-based active ingredients derived from the work of Sisley Research, to help repair cells’ past and prepare them for their future. In other words, Supremÿa delays skin’s natural ageing process. With repeated application, your face is firmer, smoother, more radiant and seemingly regenerated. In a few weeks, skin is visibly younger-looking.

Now, Sisley Paris adds a preparatory step with the launch of the new Supremÿa Anti-Aging Skin Care Lotion to initiate the regenerating and restorative power of the Supremÿa At Night ritual.

During the day, the skin uses all of its energy to fight and protect itself from external stress factors. At night, when the skin is sheltered from stress, the natural skin repair processes are activated. Nighttime then becomes the optimal time for skin regeneration to effectively fight against visible signs of aging. It is the understanding of this chronobiology that is at the origin of the expertise of Supremÿa Collection.

The Supremÿa Anti-Aging Skin Care Lotion is the prelude to the Supremÿa At Night ritual to ideally prepare the skin at the surface and help improve its receptiveness to subsequent regenerating skin care products. An essential and highly sensory step to awaken the power of night, with three actions:

Intensely moisturizes
A combination of moisturizing key ingredients, including Glycerin of vegetable origin and Pro-vitamin B5, ideally prepares the skin for the skin care ritual to encourage optimal absorption of the subsequent ingredients. The skin is intensely moisturized and feels more supple, soft and silky.

Stimulates and tones
The Supremÿa Anti-Aging Skin Care Lotion improves skin’s receptiveness to the benefits of the Supremÿa skin care with the help of Red Vine extract. The skin is revitalized and toned. 

Activates the skin’s revitalizing nocturnal process
Infuses the skin with key anti-aging ingredients, such as Sophora japonica extract – an antioxidant, that activates the skin’s revitalizing nocturnal process, to support the nighttime power of the Supremÿa At Night ritual. The face looks visibly refreshed and rested, the skin appears regenerated.

With Götz Winter, Sisley General Manager, with me.

Innovative and ultra-sensory, its precious texture creates a sensation of freshness and transforms into a comfortable, enveloping veil when massaged in. Non-greasy, silky and soft, The Supremÿa Anti-Aging Lotion leaves an imperceptible velvety finish on the skin’s surface. The subtle signature floral notes of Supremÿa—Damask Rose, Magnolia and Geranium—offer an olfactory bouquet for a moment of absolute well-being. It is made for all skin types, including sensitive. Instantly, the skin is softer and silkier. Night after night, with the Supremÿa skin care products, the face looks visibly rested and the skin seems smoother, toned and radiates youthfulness.

The glass bottle was designed to be recyclable.

How to apply?
In the evening, apply 2 to 3 pumps to a thoroughly cleansed face and neck using an activation technique, until the lotion is completely absorbed, then follow with the application of the Supremÿa collection skin care products.

Available for CHF 248.00 (140ml).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sisley Paris and © Sandra Bauknecht
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