Sandra‘s Closet

Louis Vuitton extends its New Wave collection in February. Whether tender, passionate or more classic, three shades champion the colours of love. Perfect gifts for Valentine’s Day!

The Heart bag embraces the universal heart shape as a versatile symbol to make your own. A removable shoulder strap, leather handle and a loop on the back allow it to be carried in three different ways: over the shoulder, clutch-style in the hand, or on a belt.

The LV Love locks accent the quilted leather of the Louis Vuitton New Wave line. A host of fun symbols – metallic padlocks, keys and locks – punctuate the small and large – Chain bag, the Heart bag and even the wallets.

The Heart bag comes in blush pink and scarlet with the LV Love locks, while its black version simply sports the LV signature. The blush pink Heart bag with the LV signature is exclusively available online.

Enlivened with LV Love locks, the small Chain bag in scarlet and the large Chain bags in blush pink and black bring their colourful energy to this festival of love.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Louis Vuitton

For its F/W 2018 collection, Longchamp has teamed up with the French designer Clo’e Floirat to create a pop and colorful collection, featuring dogs on many pieces.

The artist brings her stylish touch to a selection of bags, including the iconic «Le Pliage», small leather goods and accessories. Clo’e Floirat also created an exclusive dogs line with colorful cowhide leather leashes and collars in three sizes and five colors.

Playing with humour on a theme of this «must-have» accessory, Clo’e Floirat has imagined a story of «Le Pliage» bag unfolding in three formats. She portrays packs of dogs in bright and bold colors walking their owners on the nylon canvas’ tone-on-tone navy print flap with red signature details.

The whimsical dog pattern can be found throughout the vibrant cotton canvas travel bag’s limited edition and on a large silk scarf. The hounds are equally featured with their noses held high on 6 key rings.

Finally, the star of this collection – a red dachshund – appears on two small leather goods, a small silk scarf and an umbrella and shown prancing all over packaging and paper bags, never-to-be-forgotten. With Clo’e Floirat, Longchamp once again offers center stage to artists while revisiting its classics, combining modern day contemporary designs full of cheerful playfulness!

About Clo’e Floirat

Clo’e Floirat is an art critic and cartoonist working between New York, London and Paris. She explores via «drawing Crit’ writing» the boundaries between writing and drawing for various publications such as the New Yorker, and collaborates equally with Robert Wilson and Rufus Wainwright. Author of Pas Mal pour de l’art (Not bad for art) (Marabout edition – 2016) and Je vois quelqu’un (I am seeing someone) (Marabulles collection – 2018), Clo’e Floirat is interested in perspectives towards art as well as the relationship between psychologists and their patients…Always with a signature humor that cleverly contrasts ego and intention.

The Longchamp x Clo’e Floirat hits the shelves this month!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Longchamp

Yesterday, in 16 Celine stores around the world a true object of desire arrived for a few chosen fashion lovers and I am one of them.

It is Slimane’s «16» bag (it is called the «Seize» which stands for sixteen in English, the latter a language you should not use to pronounce the new It-piece). The name derives from the address of the Maison’s headquarters and atelier on 16, Rue Vivienne in Paris.

The boxy, top-handle style was first spotted on Lady Gaga in August and caused a frenzy on Instagram right before Slimane’s debut show for Celine which took place in September during Paris Fashion Week. A runway presentation that was endlessly discussed and divided the fashion world into two camps, «Old Céline» and «New Celine».

But coming back to this beauty, the design features discreet gold hardware and the new accent-less Celine logo (don’t forget, there is no more Céline as Hedi took the «accent aigu» ( acute accent) away in the beginning of September). Officially it will hit the shelves in January/February 2019 and will be available in three sizes as well as a range of colors and leathers, including exotic skins.

I am so happy to have this holy grail of fashion already in my closet… stay tuned for my first outfit post with it! Cannot wait to sport this must-have piece on my arm. And yes, I am a committed fashion addict… and that is ok!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

For Resort 2019 Miuccia Prada helped to give us the 90’s rebirth we needed after all this ’80s dominance. And let’s be honest, it had to be her to celebrate this nineties nostalgia as she was the designer who had actually invented the «ugly chic» at that time. She looked through the archives, specifically her collections from the 1990s, for references this season.

The PRADA Resort 2019 show took place in New York City.

The outcome? Printed low-slung trousers with matching jackets, amazing leather coats and my favorite looks, belted miniskirts with ruffled detailing combined with cute polo tops. Moreover a new bag shape, that will probably sell out very fast.

Sidonie Bag Resort 2019

Meet the PRADA Sidonie that evokes elements of the archetypal bags presented in S/S 2000: a curvaceous, ergonomic shape, a modern classic rediscovered.

The inspiration behind the new PRADA Resort 2019 Sidonie Bag can be clearly seen in this ad campaign from S/S 2000.

Sidonie Bag Resort 2019

PRADA bags from S/S 2000 that I have in my closet.

A PRADA bag is always a great investment. I went through my closet to dust these S/S 2000 beauties. As I keep on recommending… don’t throw away your designer items, there will always be a time again for them. And those bags have just found their moment again.

Needless to say, I also would like to buy a new Sidonie bag for my own personal PRADA collection. I adore this blue and black version:

Sidonie Bag Resort 2019

The metal hardware details – plaques and buckles – draw on the brand heritage of superlative luggage-making, established by Mario Prada in 1913, juxtaposed with a modern shape, delicately curved and finely-balanced.

Sidonie Bag Resort 2019

The style is proposed in dual models, top-fastening or flap fronted with, respectively, a cross-body strap or haut, curved and shaped handle to be held on the shoulder for a new attitude. Both are offered in an entire wardrobe of fine calfskin and precious leathers.

PRADA Sidonie is a new character of the brand, a heroine, to be discovered. In stores this month.

’90s nostalgia with a modern twist! Bravo, Miuccia Prada!

LoL, Sandra

The PRADA Resort 2019 campaign: retro meets future.

Photos: Courtesy of Prada and © Sandra Bauknecht

Working out of French ateliers, HERMÈS has earned a reputation for using the finest leathers in the world—not to mention, each bag is crafted by the same pair of hands, from start to finish. In partnership with Heritage Auctions, MODA OPERANDI brings you a mix of classic and more contemporary shapes, as well as incredibly rare styles that prove there’s an HERMÈS bag to suit every woman. Think Birkins, Kellys, and more in pretty much every colour under the rainbow and every size produced.

Whether you are in mind to shop or browse, click HERE now to view the collection as styles are selling out. The prices are high, you see, those bags are an investment.
Below are my personal favorites:

Designed in the late 19th century, this was the precursor to the infamous Birkin. You won’t find a more fabulous weekender anywhere else: HERMÈS 40cm Lime Evercolor Leather And Toile Birkin HAC.

If you are a Kelly girl, than this will be a must. The owl print dates back to 1990 and is a one-off, meaning only a few were ever produced: HERMÈS 20cm Rouge Vif Calf Box And Silk Kelly.

My personal favorite: a work of art, only the most skilled artisans are able to weave the delicate wicker (and Hermès no longer makes this size): HERMÈS 35cm Osier And Fauve Osier Wicker And Barenia Leather Kelly Picnic.

Tell your hubby you found an extremely savvy investment: pink in an exotic skin sells for the highest prices at auction: HERMÈS 28cm Rose Tyrien Ostrich Sellier Kelly.

Classic and absolutely beautiful in a vibrant colour: HERMÈS 35cm Blue Zanzibar Togo Leather Birkin.

The bags will ship within two weeks from order date.
Expected to ship Nov 16, 2018 – Dec 30, 2018.

TO SHOP THE LARGE SELECTION OF VINTAGE HERMÈS BAGS, CLICK HERE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Moda Operandi

Today’s world offers so many chances for everyone. What seemed unbridgeable before, such as sportswear and evening attire, high and low fashion or even good or bad taste, has fully merged. People have the chance to show and spread their talents via social media.

Hey Reilly’s illustrations of Lagerfeld and Venturini Fendi are on display in Fendi’s store windows.

Here is a lucky punch that just took place in the world of fashion. One of the most hyped collaborations started with a direct message on Instagram when Silvia Venturini Fendi, the house’s creative director of accessories, menswear, and kids, first spotted @hey_reilly’s Fendi + Fila logo on the Instagram artist’s feed in February last year.

The Scottish creative is known for his tongue-in-cheek monikers. Together with Karl Lagerfeld, who designs Fendi’s womenswear line, Silvia took logomania to this new and exciting form this season. The mashup of Fendi and Fila’s iconic typefaces, a truly viral design, was teased at the F/W 2018 runway show and is now at the core of the Resort 2019 capsule collection.

From left to right: Kan I appliquéd leather shoulder bag and Kan I mini appliquéd leather shoulder bag.

Embroidered cotton-jersey hoodie

From left to right: Logo-embossed leather knee boots and the same version in black/yellow.

You can shop the limited edition pieces at NET-À-PORTER, MATCHESFASHION, and MYTHERESA. A little hint from my side, at Net-à-Porter the prices are for some pieces much cheaper than at the other stores.

I am crazy for these pieces and you?

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Fendi and via Instagram @hey_reilly

Gabriela Hearst believes in «honest luxury» – pieces that are beautifully made and don’t compromise her ethics and values. «There is a purpose to every piece,» says the former model of her eponymous label which is inspired by the ranch she grew up on in Uruguay and her current life in New York City. From the beautiful gowns to the impeccable tailoring, each garment is thoughtfully designed and crafted using the most luxurious fabrics. But really exclusive are her bags (for a previous post, click here please) as you cannot buy them in a store or online besides now.

For a limited time period of two-weeks only, Net-à-Porter is launching a pop-up boutique of Gabriela Hearst bags, which includes the exclusive «Patsy» and the new «Diana» styles along with the iconic «Nina» and «Demi» totes.

My favorite: Diana leather tote
It’s pretty much a given that every new bag Gabriela Hearst releases will become a hit in no time, but this ‘Diana’ bag that’s shaped like an accordion really strikes all the right notes. Made in Italy, it’s detailed with polished rose gold hardware and opens to reveal a striking red lining.

Another must-have: Patsy textured-leather tote
Inspired by vanity cases, this ‘Patsy’ tote has been made in Italy from pristine textured-leather with rose gold hardware. Be sure to snap it up quickly – the designer’s sought-after bags will only be available for a limited period of time.

Iconic: Nina leather tote
The unique round shape of this highly coveted tote is inspired by the exaggerated and voluminous designs of Colombian sculptor Fernando Botero. Known for its origami-like silhouette, this structured tote has been crafted from buttery leather and punctuated with gleaming rose gold hardware.

Me with my beloved Nina tote in cognac, click here for the outfit post.

TO SHOP GABRIELA HEARST BAGS FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Gabriela Hearst, Net-à-Porter and © Sandra Bauknecht

For Tara Ghazanfar dreams of quitting her day job became a reality in 2016 when the London-based, US-born designer launched her handbag line, Tara Zadeh – named, in part, for her mother’s maiden name. ‘Zadeh’ is a Persian suffix meaning ‘born of’ – a fitting label for the realisation of Tara’s long-imagined dream.

Her bags reflect her Iranian heritage – the geometric shapes and vibrant mosaics in the palaces and mosques of Tehran and Shiraz influence each collection. After her first designs were loved by friends and family, Ghazanfar began bringing her creations to life, using a factory in the small town of Ubrique, Spain to produce the handmade leather and brass accessories.

Before launching her brand, she graduated from Parsons the New School with a degree in graphic design, and worked as Art Director of The Gentleman’s Journal, a London based luxury magazine for men. She spent years sketching designs based on pieces gathered from souks and markets around the world.

Her signature piece, the Azar clutch, is easily recognisable thanks to its round silhouette and geometric brass fixtures and has certainly awakened our desire being featured all over Instagram.

TO SHOP TARA ZADEH ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Via Net-à-Porter, Browns, Tara Zadeh
@tarazadeh

PRADA opens new spaces in the via della Spiga boutique in Milan, which have been expanded and feature the rolling out of a fresh image, with a new layout and interior architecture. The boutique is entirely dedicated to the women’s collections.

On the corner between Via Sant’Andrea and Via della Spiga, the façade is characterised by entrances on both streets and large windows, inserted in the stone frame of the building. Inside, the new layout of the spaces is on two levels for a total area of 400 square metres.

The space on the ground floor – dedicated to leather goods, accessories and footwear collections – is an original and sophisticated interpretation of the historic Prada display niche. New and elegant design elements stand out, among which the green marble tables sketched by the Milanese design firm BBPR and exclusively reproduced for Prada in a limited series.

The upper floor – reached by a marble staircase – houses the clothing collections and is characterised by the modern design of the ceiling beams and the pearl-grey carpeted floor, combined with the wooden details of the large windows and 1950s furnishings. The walls are decorated with bas-reliefs in shades of pastel green, inspired by the iconic prints of the brand.

On both levels, the display elements – made with details of polished wood – are flanked by furniture designed by Osvaldo Borsani and Giò Ponti, made exclusively for Prada and some special design pieces that pay homage to the masters of Milanese design of the 1950s.

From 10 September 2018, the Prada Sidonie bag, protagonist of the Prada Resort 2019 collection, will be available solely at the Via della Spiga store in two styles made of city calf leather in a different range of colors. The precious skin versions  – crocodile and ostrich – will be available in pre-order only.

Ladies, be prepared, the small shoulder bags are back!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Prada

«It started with our love for animals, it’s where Nicolas and I really connect beyond fashion.» – Grace Coddington

At LOUIS VUITTON’s Cruise 2019 catwalk show amidst the Mirós and Giacomettis of Saint-Paul-de-Vence’s Fondation Maeght, Nicolas Ghesquière, artistic director of women’s collections, presented a too-die-for collaboration with Vogue contributing editor Grace Coddington.

Nicolas Ghesquière and Grace Coddington in a silk pyjama set from the collaboration at the Louis Vuitton Cruise 2019 show last May. 

The line sees the famous redhead putting her spin on the brand’s iconic monogram pattern, embellishing it with illustrations of her two cats, Pumpkin and Blanket. Moreover her designer friend’s dog Léon finishes off the animalistic collection that also includes patent leather bags in the cartoony shapes. I love every single piece!

The full range of items, including handbags, leather goods, and ready-to-wear, will arrive in Louis Vuitton stores in October.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Louis Vuitton, via Martien Mulder for WSJ. Magazine