Sandra‘s Closet

This is perfect way to sustainably update your Hermès bag, consider having an artist take a brush or needle and thread to them. Or have a look at the amazing work of Hong Kong based designer Jonathan Riss who has a passion of giving iconic bags a second life. His brand Jay Ahr (phonetic spelling of his initials) takes luxury bags to the next level.

Jonathan Riss with one of his works @jay_ahr_
« 1969 » Vintage Hermès Kelly bag, size 28

An array of pristine condition pre-loved Hermès bags presents the perfect canvas for this ancient yet modern artwork making every piece sustainable in product and process with a story to tell. Custom embroideries are layered and interwoven into each bag, with the art piece looking like they were part of the original leather design. Riss and his team deconstruct every bag before sending each separate piece of leather to the embroiderers. Once they are finished, the bag is sewn back together using the original yarn.

This vintage Hermès Birkin bag with Shunga embroidery was especially created on behalf of Maxfield LA’s 50th anniversary. Available for $55.000. To shop, click here.

There are so many amazing pieces, see below for more:

Bandana Brown – Hermes Birkin 35

This bag is a vintage Hermès Birkin 35 in brown epsom leather first produced in 1999. The stamped- grain lightweight leather gives a structured relaxed contour. Featuring round top handles and a fold-over top with twist-lock closure.

Detailed with palladium hardware it comes with a detachable clochette with two encased keys and a padlock. From the Sanskrit word for «a bond», the bandana is inspired by the colourful Indian kerchiefs. The Bandana collection is paired with Jay Ahr’s tongue-in-cheek twist on the Hermès Twilly, in a matching bandana pattern.

$38.500 – To shop, click here.

Thangka Snake – Act 2 – Hermes Constance 24

A vintage Hermès Constance 24 in black box calf leather with gold plated metal hardware. The smooth box calf leather gives a glossy finish yet firm hold creating the bag’s structural lines. The bag features a versatile two-way shoulder strap and gilded ‘H’ front clasp closure.

Using this vintage Constance as a canvas, Jay Ahr presents a special interpretation of the Thangka, a Tibetan Buddhist painting on cotton or silk appliqué. The central motif features an embroidered interpretation of the snake depicted in the Raktayamari Thangka, one of the world’s great textile treasures. One of the major landmarks of early Ming dynasty textile arts, the eight snakes represent the subjugation of various obstacles and the accomplishment of skillful activities.

US$28,600 – To shop, click here.

Welcome to the Jungle Hermès Birkin 35

This bag is a vintage Hermès Birkin 35 in white canvas with a green trim first produced in 1996. Featuring round top handles and a fold-over top with twist-lock closure. Detailed with palladium hardware it comes with a detachable clochette with two encased keys and a padlock.

On this seemingly light hearted beauty the exotic green plays host to the lyrics of Guns & Roses’ «Welcome to the Jungle». Shrouded by Jungle palm leaves creating a sense of mystery and voyeurism. The song exposes the dark side of Los Angeles many people encounter when they go there to pursue fame. The embroidered print is not contained to the canvas but carried across the bag onto the soft Ebène calf leather hiding the underworld conveyed by the song.

$38.500 – To shop, click here.

Nessun Dorma – Hermès Kelly Sellier 28

This bag is a vintage Hermès Kelly Sellier 28 first produced in 1973. Detailed with palladium plated hardware it comes with a detachable clochette with two encased keys and a padlock. The bag stands tall on protective feet and is carried by a single padded top handle.

Marrying musical classics with vintage classics Jay Ahr has woven the lyrics to operas, ballads and anthems.  This piece is an ode to the Italian Opera. The lyrics to «Nessun Dorma» (None shall sleep), an aria from the final act of Giacomo Puccini’s Turandot – one of the best known tenor arias in opera – grace this stunning and rare Kelly, in an embroidered interpretation of wood block stamping.

$35.200 – To shop, click here.

Aren’t those bags so beautiful, when fashion meets art … masterpieces can be created.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Jay Ahr and via Marie Van Damme
DISCLOSURE: This post DOES NOT include affiliate links and is not sponsored. I am just a fan of the products.

Featuring vivid hues and magnified ultra-graphic prints which play with the LV Monogram Giant motif, the LV Crafty collection expertly blends fine craftsmanship and pop style.
Its creations draw inspiration from two artistic movements from the second half of the 20th century: graffiti art and neo-expressionism. During the 1980s these urban, underground trends ventured into new and established creative territories, including New York museums and galleries.

NéoNoé bucket LV Crafty cream & red, in Monogram coated canvas

Today, the LV Crafty collection is suffused with this graphic boldness which first adorned the Monogram canvas. The collection revisits a print chosen from the House’s archives and paired with the Monogram Giant motif in black. Available in two colour schemes, cream and red or the more autumnal cream and caramel, LV Crafty appears on the House’s most iconic pieces – Onthego, NéoNoé and Boite Chapeau Souple.

Boite Chapeau Souple bag LV Crafty cream & red, in Monogram coated canvas

The Monogram Empreinte leather has also embraced the LV Crafty print, adding subtle and elegant touches around the chapes, on the handles and to the accessories, which brighten up and energise the sleek black or white leather.

Twist MM LV Crafty in black grained Epi leather, braided handle and printed cowhide charm

The collection will make its debut in all Louis Vuitton stores at the end of July, highlighting the House’s wide range of expertise for a full selection of trainers, accessories, ready-to-wear, travel and more to start off the fall season in style.

LoL, Sandra

Onthego tote LV Crafty caramel & cream, in Monogram coated canvas

Onthego tote LV Crafty cream & red, in Monogram coated canvas

Onthego tote LV Crafty Monogram Empreinte black, in embossed supple grained cowhide leather

Metis bag LV Crafty Monogram Empreinte cream, in embossed supple grained cowhide leather

Photos: © Benoit Peverelli for Louis Vuitton

Here is your chance and you should better take it! In general, Gabriela Hearst bags cannot be bought in a store or online besides now. These bags are highly sought after and trying to get them is almost impossible with extremely high waiting lists – on average there is a waiting list of 1,500 client per bag at any given time. If you really want the bag, you have to email, hope and wait.
For a limited time period, Net-à-Porter is launching a pop-up boutique of Gabriela Hearst bags, which includes the exclusive «Patsy» and «Diana» styles along with the iconic «Nina» and «Demi» totes. First come, first serve.

Click here for the outfit post from March 2019.

Gabriela Hearst’s cult«Nina» tote has been spotted on the arm of Meghan Markle, Priyanka Chopra and Oprah Winfrey over the years. Crafted from smooth leather in the brand’s Italian studio, it has a globe shape with origami-like folds and a strap that can be carried in hand or the crook of your arm. It will make any outfit pop.

Click here for the outfit post from November 2018.

Gabriela Hearst puts a lot of thought into her bag designs to make sure they’re ethical, sustainable and totally unique. Inspired by ’40s lunch boxes, the «Patsy» tote opens to a minimalist interior that will hold your phone, cardholder and lipstick.

Are you curious what I got myself this time? I actually went for two bags….
Left: Nina striped leather tote with its matching Nina striped crocheted cashmere tote cover
Right: Diana leather-trimmed printed suede tote
Gabriela Hearst’s linstantly recognizable «Diana» tote is designed in a fresh monochromatic colorway that’s modern and cool. I adore its distinct accordion-inspired silhouette.

CLICK HERE TO SHOP THE HIGHLY LIMITED GABRIELA HEARST BAGS.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Gabriela Hearst/Net-à-Porter
© Sandra Bauknecht and  © David Biedert Photography
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Here comes your next It-bag. Presented first on the F/W 2020 runway, Dior unveils Dior Bobby, a new bag of timeless modernity and a subtle tribute to Christian Dior’s beloved pet dog. Another must-have piece created by Maria Grazia Chiuri because the simplicity in its design is precisely what makes this bag so versatile.

The Dior Bobby is a hobo style showcasing sophisticated lines and harmonious proportions.
It’s available in three sizes – small, medium, large – and in four colours – black, white, camel, and of course, the signature blue Dior Oblique canvas that is still all the rage in fashion. It has a flexible suede interior, and is enhanced by antique gold-finish metal hardware. Its removable and adjustable shoulder strap has a military-inspired buckle, and allows it to be carried on the shoulder or crossbody, as well as by hand.

In stores Mid July! So get yourself on the wait list now! I am going for the middle sized one in camel below. Isn’t it so pretty?

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Dior

I am so proud to share with you today’s news which I have exclusively for Switzerland. Meet your new must-have: the LV Pont 9 shoulder bag, Louis Vuitton’s latest embodiment of effortless Parisian chic and a new symbol of its ongoing commitment to exquisite craftsmanship. Perfect for both everyday and special occasions, this new design takes its name from Paris’ Pont Neuf, the oldest and most celebrated bridge that sits opposite Louis Vuitton’s headquarters in Paris. It also marks the first release of the House’s new LV Pont 9 leather line.

The bag’s refined, rounded design is brought to life in smooth, lightly padded calfskin and finishes with the exclusive Louis Vuitton Circle, a 1930s archive logo reinterpreted by Nicolas Ghesquière, the House’s Artistic Director of Women’s Collections, and used on both the bag’s flap – as a closure – and strap. The interior, in sleek and colourful leather, features a smart design with two compartments and two practical pockets. A careful attention to detail is revealed in both the bag’s gusseted construction that adds both structure and extra space, in addition to subtle «hidden« features such as the novel Monogram flower-inspired magnetic closure.

The LV Pont 9 bag is available in a diverse range of striking colours. Alongside the understated and elegant Noir and delicate Crème is a palette of more vibrant tones: deep sunset-like Summer Gold; feminine and vibrant Rose Dahlia; and soft and dreamy Bleu Orage.
Contemporary, yet instantly classic, and superbly crafted, the LV Pont 9 shoulder bag is an enchanting addition to Louis Vuitton’s 150-year tradition of innovative leather goods.

The LV Pont 9 shoulder bag launches today in Louis Vuitton stores around the world in Black, Crème and Summer Gold. And on June 26th in Blue and Pink.
Price: CHF 3’400.-

Below you will find some photos about the amazing craftsmanship that goes into each of these beautiful LV Pont 9 bags. A new classic just born.

The new must-have bag has been spotted at many celebrities around the world.
I will pick up mine today… which colour do you think I got?

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton and © Sandra Bauknecht

Summer is coming up, I hope you’re prepared, especially after quarantine. If you are not, I have something for you from the House of Dior: the DIORAURA collection which is part of the Dioriviera capsule. Inspired by the creative community, Monte Verità, located close to Ascona, Switzerland, the beautiful pieces all feature multicolor Tie & Dior stripes reminiscent of the sunset, reflecting the themes of aura and energy. I have fallen in love immediately and went for the beautiful Dioraura long dress in silk with an open back. Light as air, it can be enhanced by a raffia waistband, as in the fashion show.

The Dioraura Dior Book Tote complements this stunning piece perfectly. Take a closer look at the design, the colors resembles pure happiness, like a rainbow of shades that transit from red, yellow to bright blue and green.

In stores now – hurry up, those pieces are selling out fast.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Dior

Over the last three years, Christian Louboutin has created the Africaba, the Mexicaba and the Manilacaba, all bags inspired by and created with people from the places they were named after. Continuing his pursuit to find the best artisans from all across the globe, he has created the PORTUGABA as a tribute to Portugal that immediately has become a favorite among celebrities.

 Amber Heard, Cindy Bruna, Monica Bellucci and Nieves Alvarez all carry the Portugaba.

Launched last year, this new version of the tote is highlighting the Portuguese craftsmanship and their meticulous savoir-faire for precious details. Handmade, crafted in white or black canvas, it features woolen fringes, multicolored embroidery, traditional ceramic beads and a CL coat of arms.

All is inspired by traditional costumes and typical Portuguese arts, and all is laid out on the wide U-shape. Practical and functional, its removable shoulder strap allows shoulder wear or, with its two handles, carried by hand.

The model is lined with a linen canvas inspired by azulejos reminiscent of Portuguese ceramic tiles. The handles for carrying are embellished with signature spikes and it also has a removable shoulder strap.

The beautiful colors always put me in a good mood. I loved to carry it to my pilates class (post coming up soon…) and hopefully will be able to sport it this summer at the beach.

CLICK HERE TO SHOP THE PORTUGABA BAG IN WHITE or HERE IN BLACK.

LoL, Sandra

 Photos: Courtesy of Christian Louboutin
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Raffia bags are the annual stalwarts of summer, but now they have traded up: sleek incarnations now carry the day – not only on the beach but in the boardroom, too.

Below are my favorites, just click on the highlighted description to get yours delivered to your doorstep. A welcome distraction during quarantine times.

LoL, Sandra

GG Marmont large leather-trimmed raffia tote by Gucci

Nolita small leather-trimmed raffia shoulder bag by Saint Laurent

The Rockstud leather-trimmed raffia clutch by Valentino

 Panier small textured leather-trimmed straw tote by Prada

Escape leather-trimmed straw tote by Valentino

Espadrille large fringed raffia tote by Altuzarra

Medium leather-trimmed woven raffia tote by Loewe

The Studio Basket woven raffia tote by Salvatore Ferragamo

Lecky leather-trimmed raffia shoulder bag by Isabel Marant

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands / Net-à-Porter
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Celebrate upcoming Women’s International Day on March 8, 2020 in style and shop these limited edition T-shirts and clutch bags in support of Women for Women International, a charity that helps females affected by war across the globe. It’s a great way to support your sisterhood while looking absolutely stylish and unique.

International Women’s Day appliquéd embroidered canvas clutch by Olympia Le-Tan

100% of the profits (sale price of the product less operational and landing costs, including transportation fees, customs, duties, taxes, insurance, currency conversion, crating, handling and payment fees) from the sale of this product will go to charity.

TO SHOP THE LIMITED EDITION PIECES, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands – via Net-à-Porter
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Here comes a new must-have for all fashion and art lovers. A Lanvin master piece, the Pencil bag reinterprets Lanvin’s heritage by highlighting difference. Its sculptural handle, shaped as a cat, is inspired by Jeanne Lanvin’s cat andirons, imagined by the artist Armand Rateau in 1920. So beautiful – an object of desire.

TO SHOP LANVIN ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE – to pre-order the new must-have bags, click HERE please.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Lanvin