Sandra‘s Closet

Tracing equestrian motifs on a sparkling white or intense black dial, rose gold and diamonds intertwine on the Arceau Grand Tralala brides et mors watch.

This precious 34 mm-diameter case reinterprets the design of the Grand Tralala silk scarf designed by French artist Virginie Jamin. A tribute to the Hermès equestrian tradition, the colourful bridles/ and gleaming bits evoke the prestigious harnesses worn by the Royal Hungarian Bodyguard in the 19th century.

Created by Henri d’Origny in 1978, the Arceau watch embodies the Hermès style: its understated and timeless round shape set on a «stirrup» highlights a singular nature composed of subtle details. Dotted with 64 diamonds and topped by a gemset crown, its rose gold case frames a spangled white lacquered or deep black dial.

On the dial of the Arceau Grand Tralala, bridles and bits intertwine in the brilliance of rose gold and 110 diamonds, forming a graphic yet dainty decoration. Enlivened by a small bit-shaped seconds hand, the model is driven by a Manufacture Hermès H1912 movement revealed through the sapphire crystal case-back. Crafted in the Hermès Horloger workshops, a smooth chantilly or black alligator strap matches the dial colour.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hermès
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The Slim d’Hermès Pocket Mysterious Rider watch marries the pristine white gold of its case with the delicate shimmer of its enamelled dial and cover to create an elegant blend of rigorous discipline, understatement and visual balance. Its timeless lines designed by Philippe Delhotal in 2015 lend themselves to every expression of Hermès skills. Its slender curves highlight both bold, whimsical and minimalist motifs. The Slim d’Hermès Pocket Mysterious Rider watch airily reflects the playful imaginary world and the singular nature of Hermès time.

Crafted in a 3-piece limited edition, this pocket watch reinterprets the Mysterious Rider silk scarf motif created by illustrator and designer Viktor Hachmang. A finalist in the Grand Prix du Carré Hermès, the Dutch artist marries colourful, futuristic graphics with refined Japanese art and comic-book pop culture. His bright hues and geometric patterns bring to life the mysterious rider on a gleaming motorbike. In the background is a shop front reminiscent of the legendary and historic 24 Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris.

The cover featuring the biker and his roaring motorcycle is crafted in champlevé enamel. This demanding technique involves carving tiny cells in the metal, filling them with coloured glass powders mixed with natural oils, then firing them several times in a kiln at over 800°C to fix the pigments in place. This brilliantly colourful work of fine workmanship frames a refined white enamel dial. To craft the latter, the enamelling artisan applies a multitude of enamel layers that are successively dried and fired before being adorned with hand-painted red numerals and hour-markers. Beating at the heart of the Slim d’Hermès Pocket Mysterious Rider is the Manufacture Hermès H1950 ultra-thin mechanical self-winding movement. A strap and pouch in matt Rouge H alligator leather, crafted in accordance with the Hermès saddlery and leather goods expertise, accentuate the overall crimson nuances of this creation.

I personally speaking have a thing for pocket watches … and this one is divine!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hermès
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Balenciaga opens a new 367-square meter store in Zurich, its first Swiss flagship. The space, located in the historic Schweizerische Volksbank building, offers the latest in Balenciaga’s men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, shoe, bag, accessory, eyewear, and jewelry collections, plus exclusives.

BALENCIAGA
Bahnhofstrasse 53
8001 Zurich / Switzerland
Phone: +41447973180

Opening Hours:
Monday: 10:00 – 19:00
Tuesday: 10:00 – 19:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 19:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 19:00
Friday: 10:00 – 19:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 18:00
Sunday: Closed

You can book an appointment here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Balenciaga
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Outfit public, destination unknown. Would you go on a mystic tour, where the destination is unknown to you until the last moment? Ideal for adventurous travellers who enjoy the thrill of the unknown and trust the expertise of the travel planner, who will give you little insights about weather, season and activities beforehand so that you to know what to pack. The final reveal of your destination will happen while landing. I did it and I loved it!

My look: Denim chambray jacket with feather trim, and matching denim chambray wide leg pants with drawstring waist, both by Valentino, black and white printed long sleeve shirt (S/S 23 Look 1), sunglasses, and 23S denim mini flap bag, all by CHANEL, Nama low top sneakers by Chloé, porcelain earrings by Bulgari, straw hat, and book tote, both by Dior.

A very comfortable, yet stylish look to be ready for the adventure …

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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Skincare brand Augustinus Bader is to open a pop-up in Paris in September in collaboration with artist and founder of the architecture and interior design studio Crosby Studios Harry Nuriev.

Harry Nuriev is an US and France-based artist best known for his sci-fi, minimalist interiors and striking silver designs. He explained that the concept for Augustiner Bader was inspired by a combination of futuristic high-tech and the architecture and symmetry of the Palais Royal’s traditional French garden.

«The final design is a true combination of these two elements within one project,» he said. «I love Palais-Royal and this project was special to me as I could experience the entire historical creative agenda and add my own layer to it.»

This pop-up store will be located in the Augustinus Bader boutique in Paris from September 2024 to January 2025. Nuriev has redesigned the space, inspired by a combination of futuristic high-tech and the architecture and symmetry of the Palais Royal’s traditional French garden.

To book an appointment, call +33 1 40 26 21 77.
Boutique Augustinus Bader, 84 Galeries de Beaujolais, 75001 Paris, France

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Augustinus Bader
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In a nod to its storied past, Gucci introduces the Gucci Tennis special collection, inspired by archival designs from the 1970s. After previewing at select stores in Paris in May, the collection is now making its full debut globally through a new campaign featuring tennis players Emma Cohen and George Loffhagen. Together, they embody the collection’s spirit, showcasing the pieces with their champion attitudes on and off the court. 

Blending tradition and modernity, the special selection pays homage to the House’s longstanding relationship with the game drawing inspiration from its archives dating back to the 1970s. During this era, the House expanded its repertoire of tennis-related products, particularly focusing on accessories and shoes, including the signature Tennis 1977 sneaker, one of the first ever sneakers to be produced by a luxury brand. This affinity for tennis transcended into the 1980s with a selection of ready-to-wear pieces that became favorites among athletes and lovers of the sport alike. 

Reimagining traditional tennis attire with contemporary elegance, the collection features sleek dresses, sophisticated polos, and matching sets for men and women, including shorts and skirts paired with tanks and knitwear. Accessories such as caps, wristbands, and leather items complement the outfits. Highlight pieces include a new duffle bag, racquet backpack, racquet bag, and shoe holder, all adorned with a white-on-white GG monogram and Web stripe details. The iconic Tennis 1977 sneakers appear in white canvas and leather, alongside Gucci Ace sneakers featuring the GG monogram. 

Central to the collection is the emblematic Web stripe, a signature code that weaves together the past and present of the House paying homage to its enduring legacy. This iconic detail weaves through the designs, infusing the collection with a uniform aesthetic that reflects the timeless elegance of classic sporting attire. 

The Gucci Tennis collection is now available at select stores globally featuring exclusive displays in Milan, London and Paris, as well as online at gucci.com. 

LoL, Sandra

CREDITS: Creative Director: Sabato De Sarno – Photographer: Davit Giorgadze  – Stylist: Melissa Levy – Make-Up: Stephanie Kunz – Hair: Ramona Eschbach – Talents: George Loffhagen and Emma Cohen – DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

Last week, before leaving to Johannesburg in the evening, I attended The Championships at Wimbledon for the first time as guest of Ralph Lauren x Net-à-Porter.

At Centre Court, British heritage takes a global stage – from the freshly cut grass, strawberries and cream, and morning garden parties to the polished spectator style. As the Official Outfitter of The Championships at Wimbledon since 2006, Ralph Lauren has proudly celebrated the tournament’s rich traditions in sportsmanship and elegance.  The American fashion house is providing uniforms for on-court officials as well as stylish, yet functional, pieces that embody the prestigious and sophisticated atmosphere of the tournament.

I was invited to the Ralph Lauren suite that is elegantly furnished and beautifully decorated. Here I enjoyed lunch and drinks before heading to the game.

Here’s a glimpse into the unique fashion culture of Wimbledon:

Traditional Dress Code
Players: Wimbledon is known for its strict all-white dress code for players, which dates back to the 1800s. At the time in Victorian England, sweat stains were seen as improper and unacceptable, and white would mask the stains the best out of every colored clothing. Once the rule was drawn up, Wimbledon has decided to keep the all-white dress code a tradition throughout the years, meaning that any visible clothing, including undergarments, must be white or almost white.
Spectators: While there’s no official dress code for spectators, the event often attracts a chic, garden-party look with summer dresses, blazers, and hats being common choices.

Celebrities and Royalty
Celebrity Sightings: The event attracts celebrities from various fields, including actors, musicians, and other sports stars, often dressed in stylish, sophisticated outfits.
Royalty: Members of the British royal family, especially Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, was frequently seen at Wimbledon before her illness. Kate is known for her impeccable fashion sense, often opting for elegant dresses that respect the tournament’s refined atmosphere. My seat was next to the royal box where I spotted her parents front row.

Experience and Atmosphere
Strawberries and Cream: A quintessential Wimbledon experience includes enjoying strawberries and cream, served in the grounds, adding to the genteel, summery feel of the event.
Pimm’s and Champagne: These are popular beverages at Wimbledon, contributing to the festive and high-society atmosphere.
The Grounds: The carefully manicured lawns and flower arrangements provide a beautiful backdrop, enhancing the overall experience and making it a picturesque setting for both tennis and fashion enthusiasts.

Iconic Fashion Moments
Roger Federer and Serena Williams: Known for their stylish takes on the all-white rule, Federer’s sleek Nike outfits and Williams’ elegant and sometimes bold tennis dresses have left a mark on Wimbledon’s fashion history.
Anna Wintour: The US Vogue editor-in-chief is a regular at Wimbledon, often seen in the stands wearing stylish summer attire that combines elegance with comfort.

Wimbledon seamlessly blends the worlds of sport and fashion, making it a unique and stylish experience for both players and spectators. The tournament is taking place from July 1-14, 2024.

A big thank you to Iona Miller and her team at Net-à-Porter for this amazing day in Wimbledon!

The Ralph Lauren style tradition pays tribute to the timeless sophistication of tennis.
YOU CAN SHOP THE POLO RALPH LAUREN WIMBLEDON COLLECTION HERE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and Getty
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For a fun day at Centre Court, I wore Polo Ralph Lauren’s classic, preppy style that aligns perfectly with Wimbledon’s traditional aesthetic.

My look: Wimbledon embroidered cotton-blend jersey bomber jacket, Wimbledon appliquéd embroidered cable-knit cotton vest, and chino cap in white and blue, all by Polo Ralph Lauren, dark blue sailor pants by Dior, pearl necklace, sunglasses, and tennis mini crossbody bag (Cruise 2023 runway), all by CHANEL, and white leather loafers by Prada.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Puente Romano Beach Resort has partnered with luxury fashion house FENDI to welcome the world’s first FENDI gastronomic experience and a complete takeover of La Plaza – the vibrant heart of one of the Mediterranean’s most sought-after destinations.

La Plaza at Puente Romano Beach Resort has been completely remodeled and personalized by FENDI with lively colors and the iconic stripes of the Pequin logo-non-logo. The emblematic stripes are reinterpreted in a summer version featuring yellow and beige hues, dress up textiles, cushions, and sun umbrellas, reflecting the Maison’s heritage and codes. This year’s partnership follows the success of last year’s award-winning beach club FENDI x Puente Romano.

For the first time ever, FENDI x La Plaza becomes a day-to-night epicenter, offering a culinary journey starting from lunchtime and lasting long after the sun sets where guests can dine at an impressive choice of restaurants including Nobu Marbella, COYA, Cipriani, Gaia, and the legendary El Pimpi Marbella, recently. As the evening draws in, FENDI La Plaza is adorned in dim lights and candles, where the timeless aesthetic of the Maison meets the eclectic energy of Puente Romano Beach Resort for a gastronomic adventure.

FENDI La Plaza also welcomes the world’s first FENDI gastronomic experience housed inside a resort, where guests can expect a selection of dishes including the FENDI Lobster Club – a unique take on a club sandwich, a FENDI cheeseburger, a truffle rigatoni and burrata served with grilled peaches and prosciutto. Presenting a unique cocktail menu, guests can enjoy the FENDI Perché No, inspired by the fashion house’s new perfume launching later this summer with notes of leather and Italian citrus freshness. The FENDI Baguette Paloma mixes crisp grapefruit and lime with the smoothness of white tequila and the Peekaboo Margarita blends Volcán tequila with the zest of lime and a unique helium salt cloud, for a visual that’s as tantalizing as the taste.

Adjacent to the Puente Romano Beach Resort entrance and on the main promenade, FENDI presents its new pop-up store showcasing key items of the new S/S 2024 Collection together with iconic pieces such as Peekaboo and Baguette bags. Upon entering, guests are welcomed by a luxurious and soft aesthetics: materials are carefully selected and combined with perspective cuts, while furniture elements are reminiscent of the arches of Ancient Roman architecture. The new FENDI pop-up store in Puente Romano Beach Resort is one of the few selected doors revealing the brand-new family of fragrances presented by the Maison, which recently unveiled a complete collection of perfumes.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Puente Romano / Fendi
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Those who have an appreciation for classic art will find great value in Olympia Le-Tan‘s latest collection of clutches: a mesmerizing fusion of elegance and artistry inspired by the timeless grace of ballet. Made from canvas, they are designed to look like a hardcover book and have a gold-tone frame resembling gilt-edged pages.

Grab your pointe shoes and your tutu, and dance through life with the Ballet Collection. Let the world see your inner ballerina shine.

TO SHOP THE BALLET COLLECTION, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Olympia Le-Tan
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