Sandra‘s Closet

As promised, here is the detailed outfit post of my beautiful look that I wore to the Unboxing Valentino event. Sporting the Toile Iconographe pattern head to toe, a visual attestation to the Valentino identity, it transforms into a monochrome look. I paired it with one of my favorite pieces of the collection, the oversized feather embellished blazer, for a true style statement.

My look: Feather-detail double-breasted blazer, Toile Iconographe V-Logo jersey bodysuit, Toile Iconographe silk-faille midi skirt, logo-print tights, Locò small V-Logo Toile Iconographe shoulder bag, Le Troisième Toile Iconographe micro tote, V-Logo crystal-embellished hoop earrings, crystal logo ring, V-Uno V-Logo oversized square acetate sunglasses, and Toile Iconographe pump in polymer and patent material, all by Valentino.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Rian Davidson 
DISCLOSURE: Paid collaboration with Valentino. #PartnershipwithValentino #SuppliedbyValentino
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The skeleton calibres manufactured by Roger Dubuis in Geneva are the essence of the expressive singularity of the Excalibur collection. Complying with one of the most respected certifications of Haute Horlogerie, the Poinçon de Genève, the Excalibur watches are designed like contemporary works of art. Every single component being finished by hand, the watches are symbols of passion. The work of hyper-skilled craftsmen is at the forefront of each watch with a direct view on the creative mechanics making these pieces more alive than ever.

Roger Dubuis’s fully integrated Manufacture is the birthplace of ground-breaking innovations, among them the uniquely shaped spinels named Spin-Stones™. Graded from red to blue and coated with SuperLumiNova, the stunning gems always shine in colour – by day, night, or under UV light-, and give birth to the Excalibur Blacklight Spin-stone™ Monobalencier edition, presented at Watches & Wonders , while taking colourful luminescence to new heights.

EON GOLD 18K, Self-winding, 42mm
Available for $162.000, limited to 28 pieces.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Roger Dubuis
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Presented at Watches & Wonders, these three strikingly contemporary PIAGET watches re-interpret the cuff watches of the 1960s-70s that became a hallmark of the Maison’s audacity and pioneering fashion-focused creativity. The organic design, innovative and unexpected, references the free-form, hyper-naturalism of 1960s and ‘70s jewelry, with the signature oval dial half-hidden by the gold work of the bracelet that appears to grow over the case and ornamental dial, emphasizing the naturalistic theme.

Each cuff is hand-engraved with different patterns and textures, highlighting Piaget’s expertise in the art of engraving and dedication to Métiers d’Or. The different styles of engraving demonstrate the combination of dexterity and artistic sensibility mastered by each individual artisan.

The gold is incised, by hand, one line at a time, using the sharp tip of a burin, the lines varying in depth, width and direction to obtain the desired effect. Gold shavings are gently blown away from the surface by the goldsmith after each gesture. No two patterns of engraved gold are the same.

The golden bracelet is streaked with diamonds emphasizing the linear fluidity of the engraving, and inset with a diamond-framed case and dial of white opal, its scintillating rainbow colors as if moving with the ebb and flow of the goldwork.

The rugged, bark-like texture of the second cuff contrasts with the classical oval dial of exquisite, intense, velvety Sleeping Beauty turquoise, framed by sapphires in color gradation.

The third cuff in white gold evokes a frosty landscape, patterned with delicate ice crystals that creep over a dramatic dial of black opal, flashing with green and blue lights, echoed in the frame of graduated emeralds.

I have always been a huge fan of cuff watches and find these models incredibly beautiful.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Piaget
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«None of Louis Vuitton’s stores are designed to fit into the urban context in any conventional way… They are buildings designed to have the same appeal as the Maison’s products, elevated to civic scale.» − Paul Goldberger

An extensive exploration of Louis Vuitton’s façades—called the «skin» in architectural parlance—by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Paul Goldberger, Louis Vuitton Skin: The Architecture of Luxury takes readers on an exhilarating world tour of the Maison’s most distinctive stores. From São Paulo to Seoul, Miami to Mexico City, the book visits Louis Vuitton locations that collectively form what Goldberger calls «the most radical rethinking of the concept of brand identity in our time.»

Avoiding consistency, the French luxury house effectively invested not in a single architectural identity but rather in the notion of architecture itself as being Louis Vuitton’s identity. To that effect, the Maison has commissioned significant buildings, many by internationally renowned architects—including Frank Gehry, Jun Aoki and Peter Marino — with bespoke exteriors designed to create a powerful visual experience, relating to the specificities of its location, and above all, evoke emotions. Unequivocally modern, yet upholding Louis Vuitton’s unparalleled tradition of quality craftmanship, each store’s skin is constructed to have the same appeal as the Louis Vuitton products within it.

Undercutting the expectation that a vast luxury company must assert itself behind standardized visual codes, the Louis Vuitton stores highlighted in this book are each dramatically different urbanistic and architectural expressions, all unlike anything the Maison has previously designed. At the Istanbul Istinye Park location, for example, the exterior resembles a topographical map made from a three-dimensional printer, whereas in Tokyo’s Namiki Dori store, the glass façade references the nearby Tokyo Bay, with undulating surfaces that transmit shifting colors for a wave-like effect.

The book will be available in six different covers, each featuring one of Louis Vuitton’s most architecturally distinctive stores around the world: Beijing, Paris, Seoul, New York City, Tokyo and Singapore.

Paul Goldberger, whom the Huffington Post has called “the leading figure in architecturecriticism,” is currently a contributing editor at Vanity Fair. From 1997 through 2011, he served as the architecture critic for The New Yorker. He also holds the Joseph Urban Chair in Design and Architecture at the New School in New York City, where he was formerly dean of the Parsons School of Design. He began his career at The New York Times, where in 1984 his architecture criticism was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Distinguished Criticism, the highest award in American journalism. Goldberger is also the author of several books, including Building Art: The Life and Work of Frank Gehry, Christo and Jeanne-Claude and Why Architecture Matters. In addition, he has served as a special consultant and adviser on architecture and planning matters to several major cultural and educational institutions, such as the Morgan Library Museum in New York, the New York Public Library and Harvard University.

Available in English or French for $160 – €160 – £120 from 14th April 2023.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton
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A CHANEL ambassador since 2017, Blackpink’s JENNIE is the new face of the CHANEL 22 bag. To embody the mini version of CHANEL’s latest bag, the Korean singer, an iconic K-Pop artist celebrated worldwide, leads Inez & Vinoodh through the streets of Seoul.

Alongside Lily-Rose Depp, Margaret Qualley and Whitney Peak – who bring the tote and backpack versions of the CHANEL 22 bag to life – the campaign continues to make the codes of pop culture resonate with those of the House. For this fourth episode, Inez & Vinoodh have created an original story based around JENNIE’s own tastes and personality. The Korean capital is the latest backdrop following on from Los Angeles, Palm Springs and New York.

JENNIE is a woman of her time. She interprets it in a manner that is both singular and universal: «Inez & Vinoodh call me ‘My Girl’. It’s comforting because they see me as a young woman, not just «JENNIE» in the spotlight. As a member of BLACKPINK, I’m constantly in the spotlight, but these images are an accurate representation of who I really am.»

JENNIE represents the modernity of the CHANEL 22 bag. The style of a cosmopolitan and vibrant youth, capturing the beat of the world. My favorite version for this summer season is this one in denim. I am completely obsessed with it!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: CHANEL – Inez and Vinoodh #CHANEL22 #CHANELHandbags
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Today, I am writing to share some exciting news about YVY, the Swiss fashion brand that has been making waves in the fashion industry for its innovative designs that cross the boundaries between object, accessory, and clothing.

Yvonne Reichmuth founder and creative director of YVY.

The brand’s biggest ARCHIVE SALE will take place from the 14th to the 16th of April at their studio and online from the 17th to the 20th. The studio’s address is Quellenstrasse 27 in Zurich with opening hours on Friday 14th of April from 10am to 8pm and during the weekend from 11am to 5pm.

The cuban-born American-raised superstar Camila Cabello wore the YVY Spine Harness for her look on The Voice USA recently.

YVY has gained a lot of attention and love from celebrities worldwide. The ARCHIVE SALE features some of the iconic pieces worn by Lady Gaga, Ciara, and Irina Shayk, making it an exciting chance for fans to own a piece of fashion history! Moreover, YVY will have samples and prototypes of some of their bestsellers.

Matthias Breschan, CEO of Longines, Yvonne Reichmuth and Kate Winslet.

Last year, Swiss watchmaking brand Longines entrusted YVY with a new design for the famous rectangular watch of Longine’s DolceVita collection, resulting in four sophisticated timepieces that were revealed in Paris in the presence of Kate Winslet.

Madonna in 2020 in a one-of-a-kind top from YVY’s BRUT collection, handmade in the Zurich atelier with Italian lambskin and delicate Swarovski crystals. 

The aim for YVY’s ARCHIVE SALE is to provide an unparalleled opportunity for the Swiss audience to own exclusive pieces from the collection Swiss made. YVY believes that each piece carries a unique story, and is thrilled to share it with their valued customers.

Lday Gaga herself starred in her Haus Laboratories’s makeup line’s campaign in a top by YVY to underline the empowering effect of a bold eyeliner.

Take advantage of this opportunity to get your dream leather look and follow YVY on Instagram @yvyleather for a first look at the archive pieces. Get exclusive access to iconic pieces worn by celebrities for fashion magazines and press events, as well as one-of-a-kind designs and samples from some of their must-haves at up to 80% off.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © YVY
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A global unboxing. Expressing their creative vision, talented stylists have reinterpreted the amazing Unboxing Valentino S/S 2023 collection through an interactive styling experience around the world. From Anna della Russo‘s vibrant approach in the Dubai Mall to Rebecca Corbin-Murray‘s floral windows in London and Clément Lomellini‘s progressive interpretation in Paris. In Switzerland, I had the honor to host the event. It was an amazing day filled with beautiful encounters, and fashionable talks.

Exploring the Unboxing Valentino collection under my creative proposal, clients discovered outfit combinations and different style tips catered to their personal needs.

What is Unboxing Valentino’s S/S 2023 collection about? Designed by Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli, it celebrates the «diversity and complexity within purity». Revealing the essence by «unboxing», hence its name, removing unnecessary things and creating new expressions on the diversity of body, face, history, colour and texture. A second skin is created; conveyed through a palette of sensuous fleshy tones, in beige, light camel and ebony.

Layering plays a key role in the collection, allowing the wearer to play around, to celebrate their own individuality and body type. One must-have is the bodysuit, the second-skin jersey offers the perfect base for every look created.

The Toile Iconographe pattern, first introduced in the S/S 2023 Pre-Collection, is worn head to toe. The VLogo aims at reproducing the effect of monochrome, like an iconographic canvas. The looks can easily be transformed from day to night. Being very versatile, those pieces will be enjoyed for many seasons to come.

Through a framework of couture, Piccioli and his team harmonized volume and shape in complex creations. Coats and jackets, preferably worn oversized, have an urban attitude and are blended with detachable feathers. Personally speaking my favorite is the nude androgynous blazer – I couldn’t resist this one. Following the «unboxing» principle, it is lined with an organza vest, revealing its immaculate sartorial craftsmanship.

Vibrant shades are also introduced, from red to violet blue, from teal green to yellow. Worn in combination with fleshy tones, the bicolor options offer a modern, yet sophisticated approach to the day and night wardrobe.

I have fallen in love with the dresses created in «oblique plissé» that allow its wearer to change their look just by removing the cape shoulder with a button placed on the center back. The shape of the dress is achieved just by the underpinned body which works as its only lining. Airy, light, dynamic and absolutely modern, those dresses are a must for summer.

Precious embroideries take center stage on separates and outerwear pieces. A new technique has been introduced that demands extreme precision and expertise, the «plissé embroidery». For the first time presented at the S/S 2023 show, it requires nine different craftsmanship steps to obtain these one-of-a-kind pieces. My stunner piece of the collection is the beautiful coat in aquarium color, it needed a place in Sandra’s Closet.

For night, I recommend pairing your look with one of the stunning sparkly bags that the Maison offers. Available in the most vibrant shades, they add the perfect touch to every outfit.

Fashion is a language that speaks to everyone, and this collection does just that. It celebrates individuality and diversity while emphasising the importance of removing the inessential to reveal the essence. The Unboxing Valentino S/S 2023 collection inspires people to express themselves and their identities by capturing their own essence.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht/ Rian Davidson 
DISCLOSURE: Paid collaboration with Valentino. #PartnershipwithValentino #SuppliedbyValentino
We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise..

My avid readers know that I am huge AREA fan. Beckett Fogg and Piotrek Panszczyk launched their brand in 2014 as design students at Parsons after bonding over a mutual love of ’80s glamour and feminine silhouettes. Named after the pioneering New York nightclub of the same name, the label’s irreverent designs and high-octane embellishments have garnered a diverse fanbase that includes Kendall Jenner and Michelle Obama.

Now, they introduce their hotly-anticipated footwear designs in collaboration with Sergio Rossi, which means Italian essence meets New York glamour. Being packed with Y2K tropes, the new AREA x Sergio Rossi capsule collection rewrites the rules and offers a unique take on femininity: more liberated, daring and inclusive than ever before.

The campaign was captured by fashion photographer Collier Schorr, with creative direction by Piotrek Panszczyk, set design by Robert Sumrell, production by High Snobiety and casting by Dan von der Graf and Andrea Prato.

My favorites are the ‘Shibari‘ sandals, a gladiator style that climb up the leg, set on spindly stiletto heels and dusted with sparkling crystals.

TO SHOP THE AREA x SERGIO ROSSI COLLECTION, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Area, Sergio Rossi, Net-à-Porter – The campaign was captured by fashion photographer Collier Schorr, with creative direction by Piotrek Panszczyk, set design by Robert Sumrell, production by High Snobiety and casting by Dan von der Graf and Andrea Prato.
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There is no doubt that Patek Philippe watches are considered an investment. Founded in Geneva in 1839, the brand’s style and craftsmanship make it stand out from competitors, creating highly collectable watches. Being an independent manufacture, the House has its own research and development department and creates and engineers all movements and external components in its own workshops.

One new ladies’ model, presented at Watches & Wonders has caught my eye and not only because I have a thing for colorful watches. The Manufacture is enriching its range of elegant watches for ladies with a new rose gold version decked out in purple – an original and refined color perfectly matching the warm nuances of the precious metal. Meet the new purple Ladies’ Calatrava – Ref. 4997/200R-001.

The bezel set with 76 round internally flawless Top Wesselton diamonds (0.55 ct), highlights the dial with its embossed radiating pattern and the entirely polished case. The presence of ultra-thin self-winding 240 caliber with an offcenter 22K gold mini-rotor makes it possible to offer a very slim case (7.4mm).

The dial base embossed with a concentric waves pattern is coated with more than fifty successive layers of translucent lacquer creating a fascinating depth effect. The shade of the dial is echoed by the purple calfskin strap with satinated finish and rose gold prong buckle.

Available – if your are lucky – for CHF 32.500.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Patek Philippe
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Classy with a savage side… I love juxtapositions. Traditional bouclé tweed that emphasizes the shape of the body is mixed with oversized velvet for a fierce yet sweet look. I got many compliments walking around the sunny streets of Boston in this beautiful outfit. Here you see me in front of the Emmanuel Episcopal Church on Newbury Street that is located right next to my hotel, The Newbury Boston.

My look: Double-breasted velvet jacket by Saint Laurent, bouclé tweed jacket, and matching mini bouclé tweed skirt, embellished silver-tone belt and silver-tone, crystal and faux pearl clip earrings, all by Alessandra Rich, cropped top with logo, and bouclé tweed cap, both by CHANEL, black suede boots by Prada, cutout acetate butterfly sunglasses in shiny black smoke by Fendi, and VSLING mini top handle handbag in black with sparkling embroidery by Valentino.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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