Sandra‘s Closet

Breaking news before the weekend: Valentino has named former Gucci designer Alessandro Michele its creative director. Only a week after designer Pierpaolo Piccioli exited the Roman couture house after 25 years, including 8 years as its sole creative director.

The brand will not show menswear or haute couture in June. Michele’s first show for the brand will take place during Paris Fashion Week in September.

«I feel the immense joy and the huge responsibility to join a maison de couture that has the word ‘beauty’ carved on a collective story, made of distinctive elegance, refinement and extreme grace,» Michele said in a statement.

Gucci S/S 2016 designed by Alessandro Michele

Rumors were that Michele would head to LVMH, so the news come a little unexpected. Valentino is owned by Mayhoola, the fashion group backed by the Qatari royal family that also owns Balmain and Pal Zileri. Last year, Kering acquired 30 percent of Valentino for €1.7 billion – implying a valuation worth of €5 billion – as part of a broader partnership with Mayhoola. The agreement gave Kering the option to acquire 100 percent of Valentino «no later than 2028». The former Gucci designer – a brand that also belongs to Kering – is a is known for its maximalist aesthetic that helped triple sales at the megabrand.

The designer will work once more with chief executive Jacopo Venturini, who previously led Gucci’s merchandising efforts alongside Michele and then-CEO Marco Bizzarri before joining Valentino.

«The reinterpretation of the maison’s couture codes and the heritage created by Mr. Valentino Garavani, combined with Alessandro’s extraordinary vision, will bring us moments of great emotion and will translate into irresistibly desirable objects,» Venturini said.

Kering chairman François-Henri Pinault added in a statement: «With his creativity, culture and versatile talent, Alessandro Michele will be able to interpret masterfully the unique heritage of this magnificent house and make it flourish.»

Valentino S/S 2024 ad campaign

It is an interesting choice and I am really looking forward to seeing how Michele will interpret the House of Valentino, which stands for sophistication, femininity and great tailoring.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands
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This week, I was invited to a special dinner at ORSINI in Zurich which is part of the newly opened Mandarin Oriental. Delivering exceptional Italian fine dining with authentic flavors in an intimate and sophisticated setting, it is led by award-winning Consultant Chef Antonio Guida, who was in town that night with his team.

Having previously won two-Michelin stars for Seta at Mandarin Oriental, Milan, Guida has brought his unique talent to Zurich. Renowned for boundary-pushing culinary creations, Chef Guida’s authentic Italian dishes burst with flavour and ingenuity.

With hand-made porcelain art installation by artist Livia Marin, ORSINI invites you to appreciate the heritage of the Italian region whilst enjoying the unforgettable menu. Located in one of Zurich’s most historic buildings, ORSINI offers the perfect backdrop for a fabulous dining experience.

CAPASANTA
Lukewarm scallop with buffalo mozzarella cream, marinated cedar fruit and oyster sauce

RISOTTO
Risotto with raspberries, sage and herb cream

POLLO
Gruyère chicken with asparagus, Senise pepper puree and liver mousse

AMAZAKE MOUSSE
Amazake rice with rhubarb

Lunch
12 – 2pm (Tuesday – Saturday)
Dinner
6:30 – 9:30pm (Tuesday – Saturday)
Phone:  +41 435 883 888
Email: mozrh-

Enjoy the essence of Italian cuisine at ORSINI.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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In the Spring of 2024, Fondation Louis Vuitton is reaffirming its mission: promoting the art of our time to the widest possible audience.. Committed to the presentation of ‘landmark works of modernity,’ the Fondation also undertakes to celebrate artists who, while having a connection with the history of modernity, have proposed new models and disrupted perceptions. At the same time, the Fondation supports contemporary creators who boldly set out to reinvent their times, while the Open Space program continues to support and disseminate emerging talent.

From May 4 to September 9, 2024, a landmark exhibition dedicated to The Red Studio (1911) by Henri Matisse (1869-1954) is being presented at the same time as a new retrospective of the work of Ellsworth Kelly (1923-2015) featuring paintings, sculptures, photographs and drawings.

In addition, in the context of the Olympic Games in Paris, the Fondation presents a selection of works from the Collection which relate to sports, offering an alternative and poetic vision of this international event.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton
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Chapman’s Peak Drive is a must for anyone who is passionate about the majestic Cape Town scenery, with sheer drops to the sea below and towering mountains rising above you. The twists and curves in the road seem endless and it is a photographer’s dream.

My look: Amy cowl-neck knotted asymmetric midi dress by Diane von Furstenberg, 1955 Horsebit small shoulder bag in red by Gucci, Jodie suede platform sandals and Loulou heart-shaped acetate sunglasses, both by Saint Laurent, vintage chain silver and gold necklace by Prada, Tank Française 25.05mm medium 18-karat gold and stainless steel watch by Cartier, and Coco Crush bracelet in yellow gold, all by CHANEL Fine Jewellery.

Hout Bay, situated on the northern side of Chapman’s Peak Drive, is a twenty-minute drive from Cape Town.

Noordhoek Noordhoek, at the southern end of Chapman’s Peak Drive, is a vibrant rural and artistic community village.

I ended the drive at «JAKES on the Common», that is nestled at the foot of the iconic Chapman’s Peak Drive. The restaurant is stylishly decorated with comfortable funky furnishings and plenty of detail without being intimidating. I can absolutely recommend it.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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The ever-present inspiration of travel across the universe of Louis Vuitton leads to a new Nautical Capsule. Elegant in design and effortless in attitude, the collection spans women’s ready-to-wear, leather goods, accessories and fashion jewelry. From relaxed tailoring and casual-chic seaside ensembles to marine-themed bags and breezy silk scarves, classic sailor elements are re-transcribed with a youthful allure.

As spring approaches, this transitional range signals a sophisticated spin on feminine sportswear. Naturally, the looks are anchored by white and navy, while stripes appear throughout – whether across T-shirt dresses, crisp shirting or plush knits. A double-breasted blazer worn with shorts or a bustier paired with trousers convey a certain polish suited to both city and coastal dressing.

How cute is this lighthouse? I am so in love with it!!!

In store starting March 22nd.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton
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Tiffany & Co. announces the launch of its latest high jewelry capsule collection: Rainbow Bird on a Rock. The creations are bold expressions inspired by Jean Schlumberger’s iconic Bird on a Rock brooch, first introduced in 1965. Its timeless design is reinterpreted with a curated selection of colored gemstones, diamonds and pearls accented by rare paillonné enamel. Each exceptional work of art captures the personality and whimsical nature of the original brooch, highlighting the House’s artistry and extraordinary savoir faire, which continue to be the essence of Tiffany High Jewelry.

The unique brooches feature exceptional gemstones and craftsmanship, resulting in one-of-a-kind designs with intricate and unexpected details, embodying the essence of Jean Schlumberger’s legacy. Notable codes include Jean Schlumberger’s iconic 18k gold wirework beautifully integrated into the designs, as well as archival references with gemstone drops set en tremblant appearing to be suspended from the bird’s head.

Tiffany & Co. will debut its first eight Rainbow Bird on a Rock creations this spring. Among the unique designs is a brooch showcasing a rare black opal of over 35 carats featuring an exceptional play-of-color with flashes of red, orange and purple, and another with a stunning champagne yellow zircon of over 66 carats. Other designs playfully feature turquoise accents on the bird, one of which is set with a striking rubellite of over 68 carats and another with a blue tourmaline of over 56 carats, evoking a tropical ocean. Paillonné enamel details, also seen throughout the designs, are a tribute to Jean Schlumberger and his love of the material. During his time, the designer revived this 19thcentury technique, a complex process whereby layers of translucent colored enamel are fired over 24k gold foil, resulting in translucent, vivid hues.

The capsule collection is a tribute to Jean Schlumberger’s enduring vision. It celebrates and uplifts the expert craftsmanship and extraordinary design sensibility that continue to drive Tiffany High Jewelry.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Tiffany & Co.
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These are my kind of flowers, as they will be forever blossoming on my dress and heels. From fabric rosettes and plastic sculptures – this 3-d trend will continue to be in full bloom for a while.

The photos were taking in my suite at Hotel Maison des Champs-Elysées in Paris, before going to an amazing party with Delvaux during fashion week. Stay tuned for more!

My look: Riga double-breasted alpaca, wool and silk-blend jacket by Max Mara, appliquéd wool and silk-blend crepe mini dress, VSLING mini top handle handbag in black with sparkling embroidery,and 100 embellished leather sandals, all by Valentino, crystal-embellished snake necklace by Alessandra Rich, and fingerless leather gloves with bow by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Nadia Krawiecka
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Breaking news today. Pierpaolo Piccioli is parting ways with Valentino after eight ears as the Roman couture house’s sole creative director, according to a company statement which called the move a «joint decision.»

With Pierpaolo Picciolli and Maria Grazia Chiuri in 2013.

Piccioli started his career at Valentino in 1999 where he oversaw accessories alongside Maria Grazia Chiuri. In 2007, the duo were handpicked by founder Valentino Garavani to lead the brand’s creative direction after his retirement. In 2016, Maria Grazia Chiuri left for Dior leaving Piccioli as the sole creative director. During his tenure, Piccioli’s haute couture collections rose to fame exuding a certain poetry, which is missing often in today’s fashion world. Outstanding proportions and bold colours were styled with a sophisticated, youthful edge, the same concept he applied to his beautiful ready-to-wear collections I have loved so much.

Beautiful memory: a handwritten note from Pierpaolo Picciolli and Maria Grazia Chiuri.

«Not all stories have a beginning or an end, some live a kind of eternal present that shines so bright that it won’t produce any shadows,» said Piccioli. «I’ve been in this company for 25 years, and for 25 years I’ve existed and I’ve lived with the people who have woven the weaves of this beautiful story.»

Spread your wings and fly like me in Valentino S/S 2020.

A new creative configuration will be announced soon, the statement said.

«I am grateful to Pierpaolo for his role as creative director and for his vision, commitment and creativity that have brought the Maison Valentino to what it stands for today,» said Valentino chief executive Jacopo Venturini.

For F/W 2022 Pierpaolo created its own color Pink PP.
For the full look, click here.

«We extend our deepest gratitude to Pierpaolo for writing an important chapter in the history of the Maison Valentino,» added Rachid Mohamed Rachid, Valentino chairman and chief executive of owner Qatari investment fund Mayhoola, which controls Valentino.

Last year, Kering acquired 30 percent of Valentino for €1.7 billion – implying a valuation worth of €5 billion – as part of a broader partnership with Mayhoola. The agreement gave Kering the option to acquire 100 percent of Valentino «no later than 2028».

Pierpaolo walking his last finale for Valentino F/W 2024 earlier in March.

In 2023, former Valentino ready-to-wear director Sabato De Sarno’s departed to lead the designs at Gucci. The fashion wheel is turning and some big names are still out there, such as Alessandro Michele and Sarah Burton. In addition Givenchy and Lanvin are all currently missing a designer and Dries van Noten also announced this week that he is stepping down from his own brand.

Piccioli presented a black on black manifesto for F/W 2024 in Paris this month – probably a sign of his departure …

Thank you, Pierpaolo, for all your magic!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and © Valentino
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A new trio to adore!  The floral bouquet of J’adore is infused in Les Adorables: a series of perfumed gestures to enhance the skin with a body milk, a shower gel, and a hand, nail and décolleté cream being the latest additions.

Like their predecessors, these three new Adorables celebrate the luminous fresh and floral notes of J’adore, delivering intense pleasure directly to the skin.
Their sensual fragrance is joined by the expertise of Dior science. Elevated by sensorial textures, their formulas promise effectiveness as much as well-being.

The cases of this unique trio also add to the pleasure of the senses. With their rounded form inspired by the bead that tops the iconic perfume bottle, they take on the aesthetic codes of J’adore to transcend the traditional bath and body universe and become objects of desire to collect.

The Shower Gel – Enveloping
The shower gel combines the bath ritual with a fragrant moment of pleasure, illuminated by the notes of J’adore. Infused with jasmine extract, it envelops the body with a fine, light foam that leaves the skin silky and lightly scented.

The Body Milk – Hydrating
The Body milk enhances the skin with a caress thanks to its formula composed of 92% natural origin ingredients enriched with jasmine wax. Its creamy, soothing texture hydrates and nourishes the skin making it more supple. It feels softer and is subtly scented with the floral notes of J’adore.

The Cream for Hands, Nails and Décolleté – Soothing
With its nomad format, the Cream for hands, nails and décolleté is the perfect ally for a subtly scented touch of softness at any time of the day. Composed of 97% natural origin ingredients, infused with jasmine wax and cotton nectar, its nourishing and hydrating formula blossoms into a smooth delicate texture. With a single touch, it leaves the skin supple and satiny, enhanced by the floral scents of J’adore.

Adorably Irresistible
In addition to their irresistible scent and sensorial formulas that look after the skin, Les Adorables are a delight for the eyes. Presented in sophisticated and feminine cases, they are endlessly collectable. Showcasing a design that reinterprets the aesthetic codes of the cult perfume bottle, the iconic bead is transformed across three white cases accentuated with a touch of gold. The small format, especially for the the Cream for Hands, Nails and Décolleté, means it can be slipped in everywhere, for a moment of self-care at any time of the day.

As an introduction to the Adorables universe, the House of Dior has brought together miniature versions of the first 3 creations in the collection – the Body Cream, the Shimmering Body Gel, and the Shimmering Body Scrub – in an exclusive set available in a selection of boutiques and at Dior.com.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Dior @DIORBEAUTY
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At the crossroads of artistic crafts and high watchmaking, Louis Vuitton is bringing plique-à-jour enamel into the 21st century. The Voyager watch’s dial turns into a modern stained-glass window, revealing the perfection of a flying tourbillon movement developed at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton and bearing the prestigious Poinçon de Genève seal. A journey into the blue.

Mastering and reviving traditional expertise could well be Louis Vuitton’s byword. The Maison has placed craftsmanship at the core of its cardinal virtues since its earliest days. By choosing plique-à-jour enamel – a French word first recorded in 14th-century annals – Louis Vuitton intends to restore the prestige of this rare, complex technique, still used by exceedingly few artisans in Europe. Though this enamelling process is lengthy and very painstaking, the transparency, lustre, and colourful nuances it provides are second to none. Many months of research were needed to obtain this blue gradient. To achieve this, the Maison worked with several master enamellers within its atelier at La Fabrique des Arts. The dial of the Voyager Flying Tourbillon «Poinçon de Genève» Plique-à-jour was crafted entirely within La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton workshop.

A technical and artistic feat
The highly precise plique-à-jour technique, pioneered by Byzantine artisans in the 4th and 5th centuries CE, consists of depositing enamel into cells without the support of any backing. Louis Vuitton chose the ancient, Western «percé» – and most challenging – technique from among the different types of existing plique-à-jour methods. To breathe life into this miniature stained-glass artwork, the enameller applied colour to each section using a paintbrush, in keeping with the most traditional technique: capillary action fill. Given that the material is not deposited directly onto the dial’s back, but rather into open cells, the enameller’s movements must be quick and light to ensure that the enamel spreads evenly and without air pockets.

The result on such a surface is a real technical feat, providing the Voyager watch with unprecedented clarity and light. The visually striking white gold dial, featuring repeated interlocking Vs for Vuitton, showcases a vivid, luminous, and modern reinterpretation of plique-à-jour enamel. This effect is only heightened by the timepiece’s exquisite colourway and the dimensions of the enamelled surfaces – as demonstrated by the central dial at 12 o’clock, whose sumptuous gradient of three shades of blue varies in saturation and opalescence between ultramarine, azure and blue grey.

Beyond the difficulties in obtaining plique-à-jour enamel on a larger surface, the hand pipe’s placement speaks to Louis Vuitton’s technical mastery. To ensure a perfect set of hands, the pipe must be precisely centred and adjusted by hand down to the millimetre. The component seems to float serenely in the centre of this blue dial, permanently affixed thanks to a meticulous application of enamel. This achievement is further proof of our in-house enamellers’ ingenuity and experience. In total, five to six layers of translucent enamel – and the same number of kiln firings – are needed to obtain this impressive level of transparency, with around 100 hours of work going into every dial.

This mesmerising work of art is allowed to shine in the Voyager’s avant-garde case, defined by a circle within a square, whose architecture provides the watch with even more radiance. By letting light pass through the dial, this type of enamel sets the stage for a chiaroscuro effect, casting infinite nuances onto the watch mechanism. This virtuoso design is paired with a unique skeleton movement: the Poinçon de Genève hand-wound LV104 calibre, which is hand-finished down to the smallest cog. By bringing together the exceptional know-how of plique-à-jour enamel and the mastery of a flying tourbillon movement, La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton perfectly captures the essence of high watchmaking.

A top-flight mechanism
Developed and designed exclusively within La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton, this flying tourbillon is the hallmark of the brand’s virtuosity in the field of contemporary high watchmaking. Louis Vuitton chose to feature an ethereal and innovative version of the most iconic watchmaking complication. Over 120 hours of work went into assembling all 168 parts of this calibre, which boasts an 80-hour power reserve. The carriage of the iconic governor has been shaped into a capital V, which spins on itself in a minute. The V’s dynamic, coupled with the movement’s vertical positioning and the dial’s plique-à-jour motifs, bestows a truly unique personality to this tourbillon.

What is even more remarkable is that the Voyager Flying Tourbillon «Poinçon de Genève» Plique-à-jour bears the illustrious Poinçon de Genève seal. Established in 1886, The Geneva Seal attests to the utmost level of manufacturing and finishing of all the components that go into making a watch. Appearing at 9 o’clock, the seal shines clearly from beneath the enamelled dial. Through the union of skilled artistry taken to its pinnacle, an exceptional mechanical calibre and a Poinçon de Genève seal, the Voyager Flying Tourbillon «Poinçon de Genève» Plique-à-jour is a true watchmaking masterpiece, infused with the visionary spirit that has fuelled Louis Vuitton since its founding in 1854.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton Still life visuals: Ulysse Frechelin Savoir-faire visuals: Studio Fédéral (photographer Régis Golay) and Piotr Stoklosa
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