Sandra‘s Closet

Since its launch in 1992, the Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign has united and inspired people globally to create a breast cancer-free world. Founded by the late Evelyn H. Lauder with the launch of the iconic Pink Ribbon, the campaign is the American beauty conglomerate’s largest corporate social impact program. It has raised more than $89 million to support global research, education and medical services, with more than $73 million funding 293 medical research grants through the Breast Cancer Research Foundation® (BCRF).

«It really is something that can never be done by any one person; it has to be done by a group.» – Evelyn H. Lauder, Founder The Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF)
In Memoriam 12 August 1936 – 13 November 2011

 Around the world, people are experiencing challenging times living amidst the coronavirus pandemic. This is true for all of those impacted by the disease, especially the breast cancer community, which now faces increased risk and vulnerability. But these days have also brought a renewed sense of unity, hope and inclusivity, as we all join together in the mission #TimeToEndBreastCancer.

#TimeToEndBreastCancer on Instagram

The 2020 Breast Cancer Campaign has launched a new social media call-to-action to rally supporters and raise funds for BCRF: Show your Pink Ribbon and share what it means to you. For every public, in-feed Instagram or Facebook post during the month of October featuring both hashtags #TimeToEndBreastCancer and #ELCdonates together, The Estée Lauder Companies will donate $25 to BCRF up to $100,000.

For all my Swiss readers who would like to support the 2020 Breast Cancer Campaign, pay a visit to the Charity Pop-Up Store at Zurich’s Main Station from October 8-10, 2020, where you can profit from 50% off several products from brands belonging to The Estée Lauder Companies, such as Clinique, La Mer, Estée Lauder, Bobbi Brown etc… All proceeds will be donated to «Look Good Feel Better». Throughout the whole month of October, you can also buy those Pink Ribbon limited edition products:

ESTÉE LAUDER Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex with Pink Ribbon Bracelet – CHF 149.00
ESTÉE LAUDER Pink Perfection Lip Kit – CHF 65.00
CLINIQUE Moisture Surge 72-hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator – CHF 42.00 (50ml)
LA MER Crème de la Mer – CHF 100.00 (15ml)
(50% of the sale price of each product will be donated to «Look Good Feel Better»).

AVEDA Hand Relief ™ Moisturizing Crème with Cherry Almond Aroma – CHF 40.50 (150ml)
(The Estée Lauder Companies will donate CHF 5.00 for each sold product to «Look Good Feel Better»).

It’s more than a ribbon. It unites us.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of The Estée Lauder Companies and © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post is not sponsored. I received some of the products as samples.

This fall, Giorgio Armani unveiled MY WAY, a fragrance – created by perfumer Carlos Benaim – that encapsulates a new vision of femininity that is both profound and free-spirited, designed with a commitment to sustainability. I was curious what was behind this marketing concept.

Building an eco-conception mind-set and a continuous reduction of environmental impact, the launch of the new fragrance marked the beginning of a new commitment for Giorgio Armani: fighting against climate change and the erosion of biodiversity.

«I believe that environmental issues should be close to everyone’s heart, now more than ever. There is no way we can ignore the fact that the future of the younger generations depends on our choices. I believe that enriching experiences, capable of creating real progress, come to be through exchanges between cultures.» – Giorgio Armani

Top Notes: Bergamot, Egyptian orange blossom
Heart Notes: Tuberose, Indian jasmine
Base notes: Virginia cedarwood, Madagascan vanilla, White musk

The ingredients of the feminine fragrance are consciously sourced through local programs based on fair trade principles, in collaboration with local NGOs.

The flacon is refillable and recyclable. The blue and gold cap is a metaphor of the world, a talisman that encapsulates all encounters that matter. Each format of MY WAY – 30, 50 or 90 ml – is designed to be unscrewed and refilled at home with the same 150ml refill bottle, which is sold in a cellophane-free box.

MY WAY is an invitation to broaden your horizons and open up to new encounters, while keeping the spirit of curiosity that is so important. Actress Adria Arjona is the face of the campaign and genuinely embodies this philosophy, with her free-spirited, open personality.

Personally speaking, I truly like the new MY WAY fragrance and its philosophy. It’s a modern floral scent. Its notes are very well balanced and long-lasting.

TO SHOP GIORGIO AMANI MY WAY, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Giorgio Armani and © David Biedert Photography
DISCLOSURE: This post is not sponsored. I only received the scent as a sample.
#ArmaniBeauty #ArmaniMyWay #IAmWhatILive

This holiday season, CHANEL invites you to discover 5 essentials for a complete perfuming ritual revolving around its most iconic fragrance: N°5.
CHANEL has elevated the abstract scent of N°5 with 5 new textures for the body. 5 ways to wear fragrance and intensify your trail, 5 ways to leave your mark, 5 ways to remember that any detail that transforms the ordinary is a necessity.

THE FINISHING TOUCH OF THIS PERFUMING RITUAL:
N°5 Eau de Parfum, a legendary, timeless fragrance, a floral aldehyde bouquet housed in a bottle with a minimalist design. During the holiday season, it is dressed up for the occasion in an exclusive, limited-edition sleeve.

THE 5 BATH AND BODY ESSENTIALS OF THE N°5 PERFUMING RITUAL

ESSENTIEL N°1
THE SHOWER GEL – CHF 60.00 (200ml)
A pure moment of pleasure, the N°5 Shower Gel’s creamy, foaming texture lightly scents the skin and leaves it feeling velvety soft. Its transparent bottle is now equipped with the «Twist and Slide» cap, a CHANEL exclusive that makes it easy to dispense the product

ESSENTIEL N°2
THE BODY LOTION – CHF 68.00 (200ml)
The N°5 Body Lotion provides instant hydration on a daily basis and is easily and liberally applied thanks to its «Twist and Slide» cap. Its formula, enriched with an active ingredient derived from rose and jasmine, leaves a delicate, hydrating veil on the skin for 8 hours.*

ESSENTIEL N°3
THE BODY CREAM – CHF 106.00 (150g)
The N°5 Body Cream provides a voluptuous experience and is intensely hydrating. Its rich, sensual texture envelops skin in softness and keeps it moisturized for 8 hours.* Presented in a lightly frosted glass jar, the N°5 Body Cream, enriched with an active ingredient derived from rose and jasmine, subtly prolongs the N°5 trail.

ESSENTIEL N°4
THE DEODORANT – CHF 56.00 (100ml)
An immediate veil of freshness for lasting well-being, the N°5 Deodorant leaves the skin lightly scented. Housed in an opaque bottle, this comforting step of the routine was formulated with subtle, fresh notes that perfectly complement the floral bouquet of N°5.

ESSENTIEL N°5
THE HAIR MIST – CHF 63.00 (35ml)
Ultimate touch of seduction to infuse hair with the delicate scent of N°5. In a transparent, frosted glass bottle, its formula enriched with a new active ingredient derived from rose and jasmine makes hair soft and shiny.

In stores in November 2020.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © CHANEL
*Instrumental test conducted on 20 women

Last night, I had the pleasure to enjoy a talk hosted by Net-à-Porter’s Global Beauty Director Newby Hands, arguably one of the most qualified experts in the game, and Dr. Nigma Talib ND, a licensed naturopathic doctor based in Los Angeles, who is qualified to treat an array of health conditions such as allergies, chronic pain, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, obesity, chronic fatigue and menopause. Furthermore, she is the author of the best selling book «Reverse the Signs of Ageing» and «Younger Skin Starts in the Gut».

To shop Dr. Nigma Talib’s books, click here please.

With over 15 years of experience in naturopathic practice, she is responsible for the radiant glow of some of Hollywood’s most famous faces, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Sienna Miller and Penelope Cruz. Based on the link between digestive health and premature ageing, her products target common skin concerns that are a result of our diet. Her passion for creating quality and science based supplements and skin care has reached consumers internationally and started in Net-à-Porter being one of the first pioneers to introduce vitamin supplements to the fashion industry.

For Nigma, it’s all about maintaining the right balance of good bacteria vs. bad bacteria that populate the gut. She explained that we have 100 trillions bacterias, good, bad and ugly ones. 70-80% of our immune system is in the gut. If it is unbalanced, we experience problems, such as bloating, constant chronic diseases, skin problems, fatigue and much more. Newby, who suffered from migraines before, told us that Nigma changed her life in only 36 hours.

Nigma’s daily tips:

– Eat slowly, never in front of a TV (try to chew a piece of bread very slowly and it will taste sweet because you break down the carbohydrates)
– Be 80% healthy and 20% you can cheat
– Take a probiotic (it is very important that the probiotic you take can survive the acidity of your stomach), collagen, Vitamin C, E, zink, and selenium (women in their 30s with thyroid problems mostly lack selenium).
– Stop eating salads at all, even for lunch. They are too hard to digest and don’t have a lot of nutrients. Opt for steamed vegetables, they are very good for your hormones, especially cauliflower, broccoli clean out your «dirty hormones».
– Especially in the cold season, your body needs warming food. Nigma even warms up her blueberries in the morning.

When you age, your stomach produces less acidity which can cause problems. Maintaining a healthy acid–alkaline balance means, that your blood levels should be alkaline, but your stomach acidy.

Your hormones are messengers. If they send the wrong message, you gain weight, you are moody or age prematurely. If your hormones go crazy in your late 30s or 40s, first make sure that your gut gets going. It will solve a lot of your problems.

Nigma explains: «Supplements are so helpful. I tested them on more than 1000 patients over so many years. They looked five years younger when they changed their diet and took them regularly.»

Nigma’s Vitamin C cocktail seems to be a true miracle product. Both, Newby and Nigma, were sipping this kind-of-looking-like-a-fancy-Bellini drink while talking. The sachet includes 1000mg of Vitamin C of which 90% will be absorbed by your body. This encourages collagen production and helps to get rid of dry skin. It will also boost your iron and energy levels (a little tip from Newby: take one sachet before going out and you will be in great form). Nigma’s Vitamin C supplement is not giving you diarrhea.

Something extremely interesting Nigma was explaining to us is that if you don’t drink enough water, you might be carving for sweets as the dehydration causes your sugar levels to sink. Too much sugar can cause skin sagging. It decreases the immune system because sugar sticks to collagen or the white blood cells.

Nigma divides the problems in different kind of faces:

The Dairy Face
– darkness under the eyes
– eye puffiness
– adult acne
Eliminate animal milk, and opt for nut milks with no sugar!

The Sugar Face
– sagging skin
– spots, pimples, redness
Too much sugar messes up the hormonal cycle.

The Gluten Face
– puffiness all over
– inflammation, redness
Like bread rises, your face gets puffy.

In terms of a healthy diet, Nigma recommends an ayurvedic lifestyle. Himalaya salt will help with your insulin levels. Look around your farmer’s market to find fresh and locally produced food. This in combination with the right supplements will improve your well-being in a short amount of time.

TO SHOP DR. NIGMA TABIL ND AT NET-A-PORTER, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Dr. Nigma Stabil ND, © Net-à-Porter and © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

I am a  true addict when it comes to my daily fragrance ritual. Wearing fragrance well requires a little more skill and finesse. Where you put your perfume, matters a lot. Target areas such as pulse points of the neck, the wrists, inner elbows, back side of your knees along with a hair mist for an enhanced and multidimensional olfactive trail. I also love misting my scarf, or the seam of my coat, because they move with the air, which helps with the diffusion of the scent. Talking about leaving a lasting impression. And never rub your wrists together as it destroys the molecules.

By the way, the best place to store fragrance is not on the shelf but in your cabinet away from sunlight, and at room temperature.

Here are my favorites at the moment:

GOOD GIRL GONE BAD Eau Fraîche
A limited edition scent for summer – CHF 240

Adding a cool and aquatic olfactive touch to the original perfume Good girl gone Bad by KILIAN for the warmer season, somewhere between floral and airy, it is the season’s nectar keeping summer bees busy. The perfume opens with notes of luminous Orange Blossom from North Africa and Roses from Turkey and Morocco but in its heart this new blend comes true: Egyptian Jasmine Sambac is splashed with a watery uplift and the ever-voluptuous Tuberose that is gentler by a textured sensation of freshness.

WOMAN IN GOLD
A perfume as complex and dazzling as the woman who wears it.

Inspired by Gustav Klimt‘s famous «Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer», it is my favorite for the colder season or for romantic nights. As complex and glamorous as the work of art, it opens with a blend of tart Bergamot, ripe Mandarin Orange and Aldehyde top notes that leads to a heady Rose Petal heart combined with Freesia and Geranium. The drydown consists of smooth Vanilla Absolute peppered by Patchouli and Akigalawood. Those Kilian flowers are composed like a narcotic dependence.

Woman In Gold Travel Set – Eau de Parfum and Refills, 4 x 7.5ml
Perfectly sized to accompany me on my travels or during the day, this beautifully engraved travel spray atomizer comes with three additional refills.

KILIAN’s  first hair mist, under the scent of Woman in Gold perfume, is joining the season’s seduction arsenal as a protective and perfumed secret weapon of the finest order. It is the final touch to one’s hair styling ritual. Carefully considered to offer the best of scent and science with UV protective elements, it comes with hydrating properties to help protect hair against the drying effects of the sun. It is so long-lasting, the best hair mist I have ever had. I truly hope that this will stay as it is a limited edition at the moment.

Like Kilian Hennessy says: «In perfumery, it is as much about seduction as it is about protection».
Enjoy your weekend!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © By Kilian and © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Whenever I receive a press preview from JO MALONE LONDON, I am totally excited. The photos and the stories behind the launches are always dreamlike and so beautiful. This fall, we are invited to enter the ancient Hanging Gardens and indulge in a lost moment in time, reimagined in the present to inspire two new fragrances. Fig & Lotus Flower Cologne, bright and luscious. Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense, smooth and noble. Together they capture the fragrant essence of this majestic scene.

FIG & LOTUS FLOWER COLOGNE

A new light floral Cologne inspired by the luscious figs and lotus flowers of the ancient Hanging Gardens. Honoured in many parts of the world for its loveliness, the lotus flower is an elegant water blossom and the perfect pairing for juicy fig in Jo Malone’s latest Cologne.

Top Note: Fig Leaf
Middle Note: Lotus Flower
Base Note: Vetiver

FIG LOVE

Plump, juicy and luscious, figs are known as the «fruit of the gods» – and with good reason. The fig has long featured in stories, poems and paintings across many civilisations. Said to be the world’s oldests planted tree, the fig tree. The season for the tree’s bounty is, however, fleeting– a moment of perfection, condensed and concentrated. A succulent pearl in nature’s treasure trove that few can resist.

Originally cultivated in Asia Minor around 9400 BC, where they lapped up the dry heat, figs are believed to be the first domesticated crop. A member of the mulberry family, the fig is a flowering tree – but not as one might imagine. The flowers grow secretly within the fruit, known as syconiums. A complex little secret to add to their magic. A tree mysterious enough for the Buddha to have found enlightenment beneath, a branch of which was supposedly taken by the emperor of India’s daughter to Sri Lanka, where it was replanted in 288 BC. Still alive today, it is the oldest planted tree in the world.

Many have been captivated by their siren call. In Greek mythology, it is said Apollo turned a crow’s feathers from pure white to black to punish it for dawdling by a tree or ripening figs while fetching him water. Alexander the Great is believed to have sought refuge from the heat under a huge fig tree when he arrived in India in 326 BC. And then, of course, they are said to have been grown in the legendary Hanging Gardens. A majestic wonder to fathom, a terraced garden adjoining a royal palace, planted with fruit trees complete with shaded walkways and cool streams to admire. Where the bountiful fig trees are believed to have stood water-splashed and abundant with temptingly plump figs alongside it’s the prized lotus flower.

We have paired the vibrant, juicy fig with lotus flower, luscious and crystaline, for a light floral fragrance that is water-splashed and graceful, that embodies the allure of this ancient wonder of the world. A place built by a king for a queen he adored. A timeless love to echo through the ages.

CYPRESS & GRAPEVINE COLOGNE INTENSE

An evergreen woody scent inspired by the statuesque trees of the ancient Hanging Gardens. Discover the story of the cypress, the slender and spellbinding tree that brings its aromatic notes to Jo Malone’s new Cologne Intense.

Top Note: Cypress
Middle Note: Grapevine
Base Note: Moss

THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE

The allure of the grape is not to be underestimated. Depicted dangling over the mouths of adoring Gods, heroes, emperors and kings in art, in pottery, in poems and beyond, they are the symbol of opulence, decadence and the desire for more, as ancient as civilisation itself. Droplets of temptation, easily plucked from the vine that burst with sweetness in one bite.

In Greek mythology, Dionysus, the god of wine, transformed a lost lover into a grapevine. In fact, mythologies, folklore and religions across many cultures all have tales to tell of the grapevine’s prized gift to the world. Symbolising abundance and prosperity, the ancient world could never get their fill of these juicy jewels, the red and black varieties are said to be particularly rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Cultivated since 6,000 BC, grapevines spread their tentacles through Egypt to Asia Minor, flourishing across the Roman Empire and captivating all who whose paths they crossed with all the forms they could take.

The sap from the vines was traditionally used by folk healers in hope of soothing skin ailments and treat eye infections, while the leaves were applied to wounds to stem bleeding. A natural antibacterial, anti-inflammatory ointment of sorts, it was said to bring a radiance to the skin and to detoxify the liver. A veritable jack of all trades.

With such a distinguished history, it’s only right that the grapevine takes a starring role in Jo Malone’s new collection. Said to have been grown in the Hanging Gardens where a noble king created a special garden for his beloved queen full of lush greenery. A paradise to escape to, with its glimmering waterfalls and wondrous verdant terraces. Where fruits from the grapevines are said to be enjoyed during social receptions. By pairing the unusual entwined grapevine note, woody with a hint of warm amber and juicy grape notes with the freshness of the Cyprus, it is bringing a twist on the classic fougère. A reimagining of a scented garden, famed throughout the world for its astonishing beauty and created as a gesture of overwhelming love.

FRAGRANCE COMBINING™

Like a true love story, those two new fragrances can be combined with each other, also great in combination with WOOD SAGE & SEA SALT.

Fig & Lotus Flower Cologne 30ml, CHF 72.–
Fig & Lotus Flower Cologne 100ml, CHF 135.–
Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense 50ml, CHF 116.–
Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense 100ml, CHF 165.–
Cypress & Grapevine Exfoliating Shower Gel 200ml, CHF 47.–
Available now at all Jo Malone London counters.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Jo Malone and © Sandra Bauknecht
Follow: @JoMaloneLondon #LOSTINWONDER

Spend the last sunny days well protected. I have tried many different products over this summer and those ones here have become my personal favorites and I will explain you why.

LA ROCHE POSAY’s ANTHELIOS is a pioneering player in the suncare market, recommended by Swiss dermatologists more than any other brand. Its broad-spectrum, very high protection is the result of more than 25 years of advanced clinical research into suncare and sun sensitive skin.
Here comes the newest innovation:

ANTHELIOS INVISIBLE SPRAY SPF50+ FOR SENSITIVE AND REACTIVE SKIN
A very high broad-spectrum protection preventing damage caused by UVA, UVB Infrared-A and pollution. Ultra-resistant to water, sweat and sand. Anti-eye stinging. Light-weight, non-sticky texture, leaving no white marks. Its formula is also respectful to marine life.

CHF 35.00 (200ml)

ANTHELIOS INVISIBLE FLUID SPF50+ FOR SENSITIVE AND REACTIVE SKIN
This non-perfumed fluid is the highest UVA protection in Anthelios history, providing a broad-spectrum protection preventing damage caused by UVA and UVB and Infrared-A and pollution. Ultra-resistant to water, sweat and sand. Anti-eye stinging. Light-weight, non-sticky texture, leaving no white marks. Its formula is also respectful to marine life.

CHF 28.00 (50ml) – now also available with SPF 30

VICHY’s CAPITAL SOLEIL sun care provides expert sun protection. There are two new innovations that I love. Offering very high broad spectrum, both suncare sprays SPF50 for face and body have a radical lightweight solar water formula that hydrates and protects while feeling comfortable on the skin. One provides extra hydration while the other one helps you to enhance your tan. I personally hate applying sun care products but those ones are easy, lightweight and fun while being respectful to marine life.

CAPITAL SOLEIL SOLAR PROTECTIVE WATER SPF 50 HYDRATING
CAPITAL SOLEIL SOLAR PROTECTIVE WATER SPF 50 ENHANCED TAN

CHF 31.00 (200ml)CAPITAL SOLEIL MATTIFYING 3-IN-1 SPF 50
This new anti-blemish, mattifying sun lotion with SPF 50 protection protects, absorbs and controls shine with green clay and bifidus extract. Perfect for someone with oily skin.

CHF 26.00 (50ml)

All products are available at pharmacies.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
Stills: Courtesy of La Roche Posay and Vichy

As promised in yesterday’s post, here are the two new fragrances created by Serge Lutens that will hit the shelves in September 2020. Two special creations that I don’t want you to miss. Poetic, eclectic – just as their creator himself.

FILS DE JOIE

«A laugh awaits a sentence, a word or a situation to proclaim itself. A laugh may burst forth or be stifled by a hand that tries to contain it. But if it is sincere, it cannot be contained. On the skin, its fragrance is Lady-of-the-Night, a paradoxically radiant scent!»
Serge Lutens

Dominant notes
Jasmin – Ylang ylang – Musc
Olfactory impressions
Radiant, intimate, nocturnal

This nocturnal and sensual fragrance plunges us into the exhilaration of laughter. A rare and intimate, yet significant side of Serge Lutens’ personality. Childhood memories of the surreal atmosphere in a bar in northern France leave a lingering taste of excitement tinted with disillusionment. Loud hoarse voices and «making ends meet upstairs». This mundane yet murky and boisterous life finds its reflection in mesk ellil, or night-blooming jasmine. A profound and haunting fragrance.

Black collection – Fils de joie
100ml – 180€ / 50ml – 120€
Discover the 2020 limited edition of «Fils de Joie» : a Moorish designed packaging signed by Serge Lutens.

PÉRILLEUSEMENT VÔTRE

«Despite the risks, we stand at the brink of dizziness on the edge of a cliff weathered by salt water. At this moment, we entrust our fate to what awaits us. Whether we tread on dangerous ground or lose sight of the way, rose stays true to itself and oud overpowers all else!»
Serge Lutens

Dominant notes
Oud – rose
Olfactory impressions
Determined, courageous, splendid!

A fragrant psychoanalysis. An uncompromising creation which reflects the need to take great personal and creative risks and to seek the singularity which society perceives as dangerous. The moment to embark on a personal journey. What defines us, our uniqueness, or our destiny? At what moment of the journey does the artist bloom? An intimate and personal olfactory creation which lays its creator bare.

Gratte-ciel collection – Périlleusement vôtre
100ml – 290€

Both fragrances are available at the Palais Royal and Saint-Honoré Boutiques, on Serge Lutens website sergelutens.com, and in selected points of sale.

TO DISCOVER THE WORLD OF SERGE LUTENS ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Beautiful interior design inside the Serge Lutens Palais Royal Boutique

Photos: © Serge Lutens
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

The story of Serge Lutens is a very special one, emotional and deep. Loss can lead to extraordinary ways to cope with pain. For Serge Lutens it has created the foundation to become this extraordinary designer and true artist. A visionary of beauty in all its forms, he has led many revolutions in the world of beauty and perfume. For him, «perfume is illuminating, affirming, the ultimate final touch».

Building on his success, in 2000 he created his own brand, Serge Lutens. The brand reflects its authentic, bold creator who conceives his fragrances, designs his bottles and considers every detail of his creations without concession. To date, he has created around 70 perfumes in timeless collections: the Collection Noire, Exclusive Bottles, Section d’Or, Gratte-Ciel and more. His perfumes for men and for women reveal something of the wearer’s character and bring out their true identity.
He has also launched a makeup line bringing together beauty essentials, with an expert selection of cosmetics for a high-definition makeup finish.

Discover the story of Serge Lutens, a genius living in his own world.

LIVING AT A DISTANCE

Serge Lutens was born during the war, on March 14th, 1942 in Lille, in northern France. Separated from his mother when he was just weeks old, his personality was indelibly marked by this original abandonment. Permanently torn between two families, he lived life at a distance and through his imagination. He was a dreamer. At the École Montesquieu, they said he was «on the moon»: he paid no attention, although his teachers recognised that he was a gifted storyteller.

A STYLE IS BORN

In 1956, at the age of 14, he was given a job against his will – he would have preferred being an actor – in a beauty salon in his native city. Two years later, he had already established the feminine hallmarks that he would make his own: eye shadow, ethereally beautiful skin, short, plastered down hair. He also became known for the colour black, from which he never deviated. He confirmed his tastes and his choices with the female friends of his whom he photographed. He was 18 when he was called up to serve in the army during the Algerian War. He was remoulded. This was an important break that led him to make his decision: to leave Lille and head for Paris. This was 1962. Helped by a friend, Madeleine Levy, and bearing large prints of his photographs of his friends, Serge Lutens, experiencing his first years in Paris at a time of insecurity and want, contacted Vogue magazine. For him, this magazine represented the essence of beauty: a sort of convent that he mythologised. Three days later, he collaborated on the Christmas issue. The creator of a vision through make-up, jewellery and extraordinary objets, Serge Lutens quickly became the person to call, and the fashion magazines made no mistake: Elle, Jardin des Modes, Harper’s Bazaar were constantly after him: he worked with the greatest photographers of the time, all the while pursuing his own photographic work. During these years, his talent was fully acknowledged.

THE DIOR YEARS

In 1967, Christian Dior, who was preparing to launch its make-up line, called upon him. For the House of Dior he would create colours, style and images. Finally, his vision was unified through photography. In the early 1970s, the famous editor-in-chief of US Vogue, Diana Vreeland, was unstinting in her enthusiasm: «Serge Lutens, Revolution of Make-up!» His success was resounding. Serge Lutens became the symbol of the freedom created through make-up, for a whole new generation. In 1974, mirroring his taste for films and the legendary actresses in them, he made a short: «Les Stars.» During this period, he travelled widely, exploring Morocco and later Japan. These two countries, with their rich and yet so different cultures, came together in him and confirmed his way of seeing and feeling.

THE SHISEIDO YEARS

He recalled them some years later, in 1980, when he signed on with Shiseido for a collaboration that was to enable the Japanese cosmetics group, until then unknown on the international scene, to establish such a powerful visual identity that it became one of the world’s leading market players in the 1980s and ‘90s.

MARRAKECH, THE AWAKENING OF THE SENSES

Although this first perfume made its mark on the 1980s, it was the creation of «Féminité du bois» and the opening of the Palais Royal shop – with its dreamlike décor – in 1992 which stamped Serge Lutens’ first olfactory revolution on the perfume world. Deeply moved by his discovery of Morocco, more specifically Marrakech (where he bought an old house in the heart of the Medina in 1974), this was where Serge Lutens established his perfume business. Waxes, cedarwood, orange blossom…, Marrakech provided the inspiration for his first perfumes: Ambre sultan, Cuir mauresque, Chergui… Now well-established, at the time they wrote a whole new chapter in the history of essences. In 2000, Serge Lutens took the logical step of creating the brand which carries his name and embodies his uncompromising style. Perfumes, make-up… distributed through specialist retail channels and, for the select few, his own network of shops.

THE SERGE LUTENS FOUNDATION

In 2007, Serge Lutens received the «Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters» accolade and went on to receive many awards for his multifaceted talent, before he set up the Serge Lutens Foundation in 2014. Based in the house he purchased in 1974, in the historical heart of the Medina in Marrakech, this vast museum-like space of over 3,000 m2 is today a vibrant testimony to an artist who breaks norms and never rests on his laurels.

I had the chance to interview Serge Lutens in 2012. If you are interested, click here to read the post. It is absolutely worth it!

Stay tuned, I will also show you Serge Lutens’ newest perfume creations this week.
TO DISCOVER THE WORLD OF SERGE LUTENS ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos and information: Courtesy of Serge Lutens
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Gucci Westman (48) believes that cosmetics should do more than enhance – they should calm, replenish and balance to create the perfect canvas. Known for her «second-skin» approach, the celebrity makeup artist developed Westman Atelier so you can achieve a dewy, glowing complexion at home. The label’s line of creamy foundations, blushes and bronzers are consciously made using clean, plant-based actives for a naturally radiant finish. Don’t miss the eco-friendly brushes, thoughtfully designed for easy control and flawless application.

ABOUT GUCCI WESTMAN

Born in October 1971 in California and raised in Sweden, Gucci Westman has more than 20 years of professional experience as a major editorial makeup artist, contributing to publications like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, ad campaigns for Louis Vuitton and Dolce & Gabbana, and backstage at fashion shows such as Brock Collection and Oscar de la Renta. Gucci served as the International Artistic Director of Lancôme from 2003-2007 and Global Artistic Director of Revlon from 2008-2015. However, she rose to prominence creating dewy, supernaturally glowy looks for celebrity clients including Jennifer Aniston, Anne Hathaway, Reese Witherspoon, and Gwyneth Paltrow—establishing her highly coveted «second-skin» approach to makeup.

A lifelong vegetarian with a commitment to holistic living, Gucci feels strongly that «luxury,» «efficacy,» and «clean» don’t have to be a contradiction when it comes to exceptional makeup. For her first beauty line, she designed a creamy range of seamless foundations, blushes, bronzers and highlighters that take a «plants-first» approach to crafting the perfect canvas.

Developed to work together as a «makeup wardrobe,» Gucci’s mission is to provide women with a seamlessly edited range of options as multifaceted as their lives. Naturally beautiful, radiantly amplified skin, now available to everyone.

Behind every successful woman stands a strong man… power couple Westman-Neville.

She has three children, Dashel, Gray and Petal, with Rag & Bone cofounder David Neville (44), who handles all business aspects of Westman Atelier, since he has stepped down as CEO from his own brand.

Fast. Easy. Flawless. Safe.
Makeup that makes life simpler.
Skin that feels as good as it looks.

ABOUT WESTMAN ATELIER

Gucci Westman’s cosmetics line stands for consciously crafted beauty that means…
– Luxurious, effortlessly beautiful makeup formulated with clean ingredients and no-compromises integrity.
– Balancing perfect shades and buttery textures that melt into the skin with plant-based actives and cutting-edge science.
– A passionate commitment to researching and reassessing the ingredients as new information comes to light.

Westman Atelier ingredients are thoughtfully curated by Gucci in the lab alongside the very best chemists to create skin-nourishing, clean makeup that uses potent actives at clinically proven efficacy levels – and performs at the highest possible standard.

Westman Atelier is now available at Spitzenhaus in Zurich.

MY PERSONAL HERO PRODUCTS

For my Swiss readers, I have some great news: Westman Atelier is now exclusively available at Spitzenhaus in Zurich. The team will happily assist you in finding your personal favorites. To make your choice easier, I have put together a list of must-haves you shouldn’t miss. Click on the highlighted product description to find out more.
To shop Westman Atelier online, click HERE please.

Lip Suede

This luxurious lip color palette contains four vibrant shades infused with long-lasting pigments and powerful regenerating benefits. Housed in a bright lacquered compact, each ultra-flattering lip shade – in fuchsia, brick, tomato red, and warm dusty rose – can be custom mixed for endless possibilities. Nourishes, plumps, and boosts collagen using clean actives in an innovative petroleum-free base. Matte suede texture moisturizes and conditions lips.

Eye Love You Mascara – Clean Black

This luxurious 96% natural origin mascara combines innovative plant-powered technology with creamy conditioning ingredients and a densely packed nylon brush that volumizes, defines, and curls. The result is supercharged lashes that are glossy, pitch black, and healthy from the root.

Foundation Brush

Paddle foundation brush with tapered, flat bristles that will quickly become your go-to for precise applications, correcting imperfections and achieving a naturally polished finish. Blends and smooths Vital Skin Foundation Stick for a fresh and dimensional look.

Vital Skin Foundation Stick

Luxurious cream foundation rich in antioxidants and formulated with active ingredients to combat redness, calm irritation, even out complexion, and boost moisture. Molten texture melts into skin for a radiant, natural finish. Your natural skin, effortlessly enhanced.

Have fun exploring this great new line…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Westman Atelier, © Net-à-Porter and © Spitzenhaus Zürich
*Less than 1% of silicones found in Baby Cheeks Blush, Face Trace Contour, and Beauty Butter Bronzer as part of a biomimicry technology system to protect skin. Read more about it here.
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.