Stay Pretty Forever DARLING

Meet the most instagrammable suncare brand on the market: DARLING! «Your skin will alway be your best dress,» and using sunscreen is the first step to a successful anti-aging routine. Simplicity is the essential characteristic of the texture of the products: white and silky. Beauty is in the packaging: pastel colours and essential shapes.

A complete skin care line perfect for taking care of your skin on sunny and relaxing days as well as busy city life. The Italian brand’s philosophy is based on the concept of the sun protection factor as an essential element of daily skin care. For DARLING, SPF stands for «stay pretty forever».

Darling is for every skin type and every skin tone. High quality and know-how are in the performance of the products and their formulas. All products are anti-aging, anti-oxidant, hydrating, with light textures and easy application, 100% vegan, cruelty free, no parabens, nickel tested, and produced with 100% recyclable materials.

DARLING is available at NISHES and FARFETCH.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Rian Davidson 
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Hublot Big Bang Unico Full Magic Gold

Hublot loves to surprise, invent, innovate. With the highest expectations from the manufacture, in every possible domain: from the sapphire case, to the movement, complications and design, and, of course, the universe of its ambassadors. Only this time, with the Big Bang Unico Full Magic Gold, Hublot has returned to basics.

It all starts with the Big Bang, today instantly recognisable in the world of watchmaking. The iconic 44 mm case, the «sandwich» construction, large pushers, bezel with 6 visible, unaligned, functional screws, case and pusher guard, skeleton dial and interchangeable rubber strap which uses the brand’s own One Click system. The aesthetic is powerful, modern, disruptive. The dial features the full complement of Big Bang signatures: Arabic numerals and skeleton Big Bang hands, beneath which lies the manufacture chronograph movement, the self-winding UNICO 2.

Then, there is the exterior. Hublot has skilfully transformed this, raising it to the ranks of a true complication: stronger, more brilliant, more innovative. Always first, unique and different: Magic Gold is the embodiment of this philosophy. The unique alloy has been sublimed in this limited edition of 200 pieces, where the Magic Gold is featured on both the case and bezel. Its hues are echoed on the indices, counters and hands, in satin-finished and microblasted 3N gold. The contrast with the rest of the components of the case is all the more powerful: the titanium pushers, guards, and screws and the rubber strap are all in the deepest black.

The contrast will stay eternal. Why? Because that is how Magic Gold was designed to be. It is exclusive to Hublot. Unveiled in 2011, it is a true fusion of 24-carat gold – the ultimate noble and natural material – with the most high-tech mastery of ceramic. The result is 18K gold that is patented, unalterable and scratchproof. To give an idea of its hardness, traditional gold has a rating of 400 Vickers. Hardened steel, 600 Vickers. Magic Gold, 1000 Vickers. By injecting liquid gold into the cold-pressed boron carbide components at very high pressure, Hublot has managed to create a completely unique material, composed of gold and ceramic, that can only be scratched by diamond.

Technical accomplishment also lies at the heart of the watch, with the Big Bang Unico Full Magic Gold being driven by the new UNICO 2 manufacture movement (HUB 1280). Thinner, more precise and more innovative than the UNICO 1, its successor offers a power reserve of 72 hours and a 2-year warranty, extended to 3 years when registering for an Hublotista account.

The subject of several patent applications, the UNICO 2 boasts a gentler and quieter winding system. Its chronograph does not jump at the start, and it no longer quivers, thanks to a brand-new clutch mechanism. The UNICO 2 also offers better resistance to shocks. Furthermore, it has retained all of the aesthetic characteristics from its predecessor that are so loved by collectors – the highly technical and illustrative open worked design, and the signature «H» for Hublot. This results in a movement which requires less maintenance, and offers more operational efficiency following services, ultimately benefiting the customer.

FULL MAGIC GOLD 421.MX.1130.RX – Limited to 200 pieces.
Available for CHF 36900 / € 40600 / $ 38800 / £ 33500.

Stay tuned. I will be with Hublot in Monaco next week and I am so excited!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hublot #Hublot
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My Look: Art

Two important dates in one week: Art Basel, the world-renowned contemporary art fair, is taking place from from 12th to 18th June and it also marks the end of  Switzerland’s second-largest bank, Credit Suisse, that was taken over by its rival UBS. In the photo to the left you can see the headquarters at Paradeplatz in Zurich in the back. We shot this beautiful art inspired look inside Galerie Gmurzynska. Fashion is art for me, and this time literally.

My Look: Buckle-detailed draped stretch-jersey mini dressicon, and frame handbag, both by Moschino, Grace bow-embellished knee boots, and grooved cabochon clip earringsicon, both by Saint Laurenticon.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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Louis Vuitton Editions Pop Up at Art Basel

Louis Vuitton opens an Editions Pop Up from 12th to 18th June at Art Basel, celebrating the Maison’s literary launches.

Following successful similar pop ups across the globe – from Venice to Shanghai and Dubai – this latest touchdown at Art Basel will be housed in Hall 1 of the world-renowned contemporary art fair, presenting a large array of works from Louis Vuitton’s Editions catalogue. The Maison’s pioneering publications of over one hundred titles – including the City Guide, Travel Books and Fashion Eye collections – explore travel, design, art and fashion. Each of these oeuvres call upon the talents of freelance journalists, experienced authors and cultural savants, to capture the essence of the subject or destination.

Open to visitors for the duration of Art Basel, this latest Louis Vuitton Editions pop will welcome painter and illustrator, Yann Kebbi, for an exclusive signing of his latest work for the Maison, the Travel Book Las Vegas. On site from 4pm to 5pm on the 13th and 14th June, Kebbi’s Travel Book will also be available in an exclusive «Artist Edition».

Louis Vuitton invites clients and visitors on a journey across the Maison’s literary works, from far off destinations to wide-ranging themes, all soon to be discovered in the heart of Art Basel.

Practical information:
Art Basel, Messe Basel
Messepl. 10
4058 Basel, Switzerland
Louis Vuitton Editions Pop Up from 12th to 18th June, in the entrance of Hall 1

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton
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Gucci x Loulou Ramatuelle Beach Club

Furthering the House’s connection to Saint-Tropez, Gucci also announces its collaboration with Loulou Ramatuelle Beach Club, which was home to Burberry last year. For the previous post, click here please. This season until the end of September, the renowned beach club undergoes a captivating transformation, immersing visitors in the world of Gucci.

In occasion of this exclusive partnership Gucci introduces its unique aesthetic to every aspect of the Loulou Ramatuelle Beach Club experience. Umbrellas, sunbeds, towels, cushions, and more are adorned with the House’s signature Interlocking G logo, stripe patterns and a fresh palette creating the ultimate luxury destination for the summer.

The space also hosts a temporary Gucci pop-up allowing visitors to discover the exclusive capsule collection envisioned for Saint-Tropez directly at the picturesque location along with pieces from the Summer Stories collection. For an all-round experience, the bar offers a special a selection of cocktails and menus curated by Giardino 25, the House’s all-day café and cocktail bar in the heart of Florence.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Gucci
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Gucci Summer Stories

Gucci presents Gucci Summer Stories, a collection designed to capture the spirit of summer, exploration, and escape. Summer Stories evokes the collective joy that accompanies this season’s longer days and warmer nights.

Icons of the House such as the Jackie 1961 and the Horsebit 1955 are presented in woven raffia with leather details. The refined combination of textures is repeated on a timeless classic, the Horsebit loafers, declined in soothing earth tones. Weather it’s a weekend getaway or a long-haul holiday, the curated selection envisions solutions to travel in comfort and style. Jumbo GG leather duffle and tote bags of different sizes and colors from the Gucci Valigeria selection combine the House’s beloved motifs with its heritage, creativity, and innovation.

The collection will be distributed through designated stores and on Gucci.com. Additionally, special Pop-Ups inspired by beachside cabanas will also showcase the product offering in select resort locations.

CLICK HERE TO SHOP GUCCI SUMMER STORIES.icon

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Gucci
We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise. #GucciSummerStories

CREDITS: Art Director: Kevin Tekinel & Charles Levai – Director: Harley Weir – Photographer: Harley Weir – Make up: Diane Kendal – Hair: Mustafa Yanaz Models: Sora Choi

Gucci’s Newly Renovated Saint-Tropez Store

Gucci announces the reopening of its newly renovated boutique in Saint-Tropez. Located at 72, rue François Sibilli, between the port and the place des Lices, the space spans over 200 square meters across two floors and carries a wide array of pieces comprising ready-to-wear and accessories for both men and women. Guests are welcomed to discover the House’s signature handbags lines including the Jackie 1961, the Bamboo 1947 and the Horsebit 1955 along with a curated selection of precious jewelry pieces. In addition, the boutique showcases items from the Gucci Valigeria collection envisioned for the perfect get-away.

Situated in a classic Saint-Tropez house characterized by the typical green shutters that define the surrounding landscape, the boutique is crowned by a private garden designed around an old well providing guests with a space to relax, enjoy the greenery and immerse themselves in the beautiful atmosphere of the French Riviera.

The design of the interiors complements the outdoors evoking the unique beauty of the Cote D’Azur through light-toned hues and the implementation of local materials and finishes. Floors are adorned with Liberty style mosaics recreating curved volutes designs typical of the early 20th century. Natural oak panels found across walls harmoniously complement woven rattan finishes in a nod to local craftmanship traditions.

Envisioned to make guests feel at home, the store is framed with newly designed racks inspired by classic brass designs associated with drawers reminiscent of hard sided trunks inspired by the House’s luggage offer. Carpets and curtains match the boutique’s sophisticated palette evoking the light-hearted spirit of warm summer days. Ensuring the most comfortable and intimate shopping experience, guests may reserve a dedicated room within the store to enjoy privacy and special services tailored to their specific needs.

As part of Gucci’s commitment to implement and enhance eco-friendly initiatives and energy-efficient technologies in the House’s stores worldwide, the new boutique is designed using LEED guidelines and principles; monitor and promote energy efficiency.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Gucci
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La Mer Blue Heart 2023

June 8th marks World Oceans Day and LA MER is celebrating this special occasion with the limited-edition Blue Heart Crème de la Mer. It lives the same combination of sea-sourced ingredients that gives every batch of the iconic moisturizer its skin-soothing abilities. With a collectible design imbued with the regenerative energy of Giant Sea Kelp, that power now undulates on the outside, too.

Today, over 90% of LA MER’s sea plants are responsibly sourced. As a brand born from the sea and powered by the self-regenerative properties of kelp, the House is committed to listening closely to its needs. That’s why the LA MER Blue Heart Oceans Fund was launched, a resource that helps to support organizations that share the commitment to protecting the ocean.

YOU CAN SHOP THE LA MER BLUE HEART 2023 LIMITED EDITION HERE.
Your purchase of this commemorative Blue Heart Crème de la Mer does not impact La Mer’s charitable donations.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Rian Davidson 
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CHANEL S/S 2023 Sunglasses

Boarding the famous Christina O yacht in Nice this week with my new sunnies. Black and gold. These two colours, essential to the CHANEL allure, feature as a monochrome on the sunglasses in the S/S 2023 collection. A square frame and its rectangular version both come in gold or black metal. The graphic frame splits to reveals an openwork version of the letters «CHANEL», offering a contemporary line.

The glasses from the S/S 2023 collection are available exclusively in CHANEL boutiques from now.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Rian Davidson #CHANELEyewear #CHANELSunglasses
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Visiting the Acropolis

While being with Themis Z in Athens, I visited the Acropolis. Join me on this photo walk, I’ll give you my thoughts on how to make the most of a visit here.

The Acropolis of Athens and its monuments are universal symbols of the classical spirit and civilization and form the greatest architectural and artistic complex bequeathed by Greek Antiquity to the world. In the second half of the fifth century bc, Athens, following the victory against the Persians and the establishment of democracy, took a leading position amongst the other city-states of the ancient world. In the age that followed, as thought and art flourished, an exceptional group of artists put into effect the ambitious plans of Athenian statesman Pericles and, under the inspired guidance of the sculptor Pheidias, transformed the rocky hill into a unique monument of thought and the arts.

The most important monuments were built during that time: the Parthenon, built by Ictinus, the Erechtheon, the Propylaea, the monumental entrance to the Acropolis, designed by Mnesicles and the small temple Athena Nike.

Be early … this is NOT crowded! Can you imagine?!

Personal tips:

  • The marble stoned pathways are very slippery. Wear some solid footwear. No high heels are allowed on the hill.
  • Try to come early in the day. There are many tourists visiting and you want to avoid the crowds.
  • Book a guided tour. Your guide will surely show you the best photo spots.
  • Wear a flown dress or skirt – this will help you get a great photo in front of the monument.
  • After you visited the Acropolis, go to the New Acropolis Museum (inaugurated in 2009), in which most of the original sculptural and/or architectural pieces of the monuments are conserved. The architecture of the building itself is worth seeing.

To get your ticket and for more information, visit the Acropolis website here please.

LoL, Sandra

iconPhotos: © Sandra Bauknecht 
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