Sandra‘s Closet

When you look in your mother’s eyes, you know that is the purest love you can find on this earth. Your mum is your first friend, your best friend, your forever friend. Sunday is Mother’s Day, time to appreciate the most amazing woman I’ll always admire, appreciate and love.

Personally speaking, I have a very deep bond with my mum. Her eyes looked after me all my life and this inspired me to today’s gifting idea. Why not surprise your mum with a great eye care product or / and a pair of sunglasses, telling her how thankful you are to have her in your life.

It was love at first sight because we have all been loving our mums the second we opened our eyes for the first time. Even if you cannot be with your mum physically like me due to the current worldwide crisis, you can still surprise her with a gift sent to her directly. Just click on the highlighted product description to be transferred to the respective shop.

LoL, Sandra

The Eye Concentrate by La Mer
My avid readers know that I am a huge a fan of this newly formulated product. With triple the Concentrated Miracle Broth™, it helps transform the delicate eye area with essential energy and healing hydration to reduce the look of dark circles, lines and wrinkles in 3 weeks. Lime tea concentrate, the antioxidant powerhouse, helps prevent future damage before it begins.
Theprocedure is top secret, rumors are they play classical music to the kelp-based elixir for three months as it ferments. No matter how they do it, the formula’s anti-aging effects are truly undeniable.

Cat-eye neon-trimmed printed tortoisehell acetate sunglasses by Fendi
For the mum, who loves everything fashion like me, those sunglasses feature both, the monogram and neon trend in one.

Eye Rescue Stick by Susanne Kaufmann
The perfect new tool for the spa-loving mum as she can apply the stick whenever she wants during the day. Stored in the fridge, it can deliver an even more intense cooling effect. The product counteracts the appearance of puffiness and dark circles, energizing tired-looking eyes caused by blue light and smoothes various visible signs of aging like first wrinkles.

Green coffee extract reduces swelling around the eyes, while jasmine and hawthorn activate the enzyme telomerase in the skin cells and unleash antioxidative properties. A highly concentrated active ingredient from baobab helps to smooth out crow’s feet and fine lines. Ectoin increases cell protection and an antioxidant from larch bark leaves the eyes with a fresh glow.

Eye Cream Line A by Susanne Kaufmann
Powered by a combination of active botanical ingredients like white lupine and elderberry extract, this brightening treatment stimulates collagen production to improve firmness while simultaneously reducing any puffy areas.

Oversized aviator-style gold-tone sunglasses by Givenchy
Those clean frames look very sophisticated.

Eye Cream by Dr. Barbara Sturm
If your mum is into a thorough medical understanding of cells and anti-aging, she will love Dr. Barbara Sturm’s beauty products. Designed to target dark circles, this ultra hydrating eye cream has been specially developed in her German lab with purslane and golden root to lift the sensitive areas around the eyes and reduce puffiness. It’s also infused with active omega lipids that help skin retain moisture. Personally speaking, I love its pudding-like consistency.

D-frame acetate sunglasses by Bottega Veneta
Those sleek shades will work for pretty much any occasion.

Black Rose Eye Contour Fluid by SISLEY PARIS
The rose is the queen of the flowers, and this fluid features black rose aqueous extract for a radiant complexion and hydrating padina pavonica. Specially formulated for everyday use on the delicate eye area, it is fitted with a soothing ceramic applicator, that with regular use, reduces puffiness and dark circles, leaving behind a luminous, youthful-looking glow.

Paris oversized cat-eye zebra-print acetate sunglasses by Balenciaga
Animal prints are always in style and worn as sunglasses in an oversized cat-eye silhouette, they add some drama to every look. 

Luminary Genius Eye Cream by Bynacht
Between the hours of 11pm and 4am our skin’s renewal rate almost doubles – with no exposure to environmental aggressors or makeup, the dermis can absorb nutritional ingredients without any interference. Perfect for targeting signs of aging and tiredness around the eyes, Bynacht’s specially formulated cream is infused with persian silk tree extract and nourishing oils that repair and hydrate while you sleep.

Air Heart cat-eye acetate and gold-tone sunglasses by Le Specs
Slightly oversized, the blacked-out lenses will complement practically all of your mum’s outfits.

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands – Photo of me: © David Biedert Photography
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

As promised, please enjoy today’s detailed post about Déesse Pro, the original market leading LED phototherapy mask that is available at Sonja Frey Soni Cares. I know that this Hannibal Lecter-esque light-up mask looks quite funny, definitely very instagrammable. However, Alessandro Michele showed similar shapes (only as accessories) on the runway for this Gucci F/W 2019 collection so it seems to be quite fashionable.

No joking, here are the hard facts why I have become such a big fan. Light therapy provides a safe, pain-free way to achieve naturally vibrant and clearer skin. I have been using this tool for over four weeks and am truly impressed about its results. My complexion looked already brighter, tighter and smoother from the very first 10-minute use.

How does it work? The device uses low-level light therapy (LLLT) by way of medical-grade, surface-mounted, light emitting diodes (LEDs) in 4 variations to expose the skin to clinically proven 4 wavelengths of light, delivered at safe, therapeutic doses. These clinically proven treatments rejuvenate skin and improve the most problematic skin conditions.

Stars such as Kim Kardashian, Kate Perry, Madonna and US celebrity facialist Shani Darden already swear by it. Interesting to know is that NASA originally developed it for plant growth experiments on shuttle missions and later found it to have promise for wound treatment.

CHOICE OF 6 TREATMENT MODES

ANTI-AGEING – Red Light (630nm)
• Increases the production of collagen and elastin
• Help reduces fine lines
• Improves skin texture and tone
• Increases the skins natural hydration
• Stimulates circulation and lymphatics
• Revitalise the complexion
• Restores the skin radiance

PURIFYING – Blue Light (415nm)
• Improves skin clarity
• Blemish fighting action without irritation
• Helps regulate natural oil production
• Helps spot prone skin

BRIGHTENING – Green Light (520nm)
• Reduces the production of melanin
• Lightens and reduces existing pigmentation
• Improves the skin complexion
• Neutralises, balances and calms skin

POST PROCEDURE – Near Infrared Light (830nm)
• Boosts metabolism as more ATP produced
• Rejuvenates the skin
• Promotes circulation
• Promotes scar healing
• Improves loose, sagging skin
• Increases skin elasticity five-fold
• Reduces collagen loss
plus Red Light (630nm) plus Blue Light (415nm)

CALMING – Green Light (520nm) plus Blue Light (415nm)

ANTI-AGEING EXPRESS – Red Light (630nm)

This intensive treatment replicates salon-like facials from the comfort of your own home. You can choose for example between 10, 20 or 30 minute treatment sessions, between manual and pre-programmed options. A light protection for the eyes is delivered with the mask.

What else could you wish for while being in quarantine? Make time for yourself to practice self-care. Mood-boosting moments that offer some respite during these difficult time. During the past weeks, applying the phototherapy mask has become a fantastic and addictive ritual for me. While I am doing the treatment, I listen to meditation podcasts or sound baths to soothe my mind. I totally recommend taking part in Jasmine Hemsley’s Instagram Live sound baths every Saturday evening (@jasminehemsley). This time for myself has had such a positive effect on both my mind and my body, let alone how much my skin improved.

You will be amazed how many more positive effects this tool can give you. Please enjoy this little interview with Sonja Frey, who carries the mask in her online shop.

Light therapy is said to treat all sorts of skin conditions but it can even help with depression or sleep disorders. Could the Déesse PRO LED Mask help with this as well?
Yes, LED Light therapy of any kind is known to improve depression and sleep disorders as it improves the serotonin.

Can I use the mask also in other parts of my body such as the stomach or the knees for example for rejuvenation of the skin or to treat allergies?
Yes, the mask can be used on the body to treat other conditions i.e Acne on the back or Psoriasis on the legs etc (however, we wouldn’t recommend using Near Infrared – the lightening bolt button of the Mask – on these skin conditions).

 Can I use the mask also in combination with a facial mask under it?
The mask producer itself would always recommend to use the mask on a clean dry skin to maximise light absorption. A facial mask could be used pre or post treatment to maximise the outcome.
A lot of facial therapist do put a facial product first and then put on the mask.

What happens if the LEDs don’t work anymore, can I exchange them?
LEDs are not like normal bulbs, they do not have a«‚lifespan», it is rare for LED to just stop working. Also, the mask has a 1 year warranty from the date of original purchase.

Can I burn myself with this mask? Are there any side effects?
No, it is not possible to burn yourself with the mask, as you aren’t using UV rays. LED light therapy doesn’t cause burns compared to other anti-aging treatments such as chemical peels, dermabrasion, and laser therapy. It may be safe for all skin colors and types as LEDs are visible light rays and there are no known side effects.

If I use the green light, can I still get a tan?
The green light does not effect tanning. Even if you have a tan already, it won’t fade away and you will still be able to tan after using it. LEDs are not used as a source of tanning, because they do not emit UV rays. However the green light will calm your melanocyte activity and break down existing melanin clusters to improve hyperpigmentation.

What is your favorite treatment mode and why?
My favorites are Mode 1 for anti-ageing and collagen boost and Mode 2 for purifying depending on my personal needs. I usually combine Mode 1 with any other procedure to get the full spectrum, from  accelerating tissue repair to reducing inflammation or pore shrinking.

Do I need the light protection for the eyes? Or can I just leave my eyes closed?
I would always recommend protecting your eyes as a precaution either with the goggles provided or damp cotton rounds. Please ensure that you keep your eyes closed at all times.

The treatments come in two intensities. For whom is the higher intensity recommended?  In case I don’t have enough time, can I get the same results with a high intensity treatment of 15 minutes than with a low intensity treatment of 30 minutes?
The intensity mode refers to near infrared, which acts as a boost for your cell energy as it is optimizing the skin. It also has great healing powers as it stimulates the production of collagen and elastin to minimize skin aging. NIR does increase the heat in the skin, therefore for a sensitive skin keep the intensity on low. I would always recommend using the mask for a minimum of 15 minutes and a maximum of 30 Minutes, at least 2 times a week.

You will have to see for yourself how amazing the effects of light therapy are. This mask will help you find your inner peace through relaxation while boosting your complexion and providing you with beautiful, young-looking skin at the same time.

YOU CAN SHOP THE DÉESSE PRO PHOTOTHERAPY MASK AT SONJA FREY HERE.

LoL Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Déesse Pro and Sonja Frey Soni Cares
© Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: When you make a purchase, I am not receiving a commission. I am just a big fan of the product!

Today, I would like to introduce you to Swiss beauty entrepreneur Sonja Frey. I first met her at a wedding in Tuscany last summer and was immediately impressed by her beautiful skin and complexion. The 38-year old, who resides in Zurich, founded her online shop in 2019. Originally under the name Uniquare, she changed it this year to Sonja Frey Soni Cares.

Her catchy slogan, that plays with her nick name, «Soni Cares», stays also for her personal passion behind her brand. Over the years, the charming blonde developed a huge knowledge of everything organic and natural when it comes to skincare. After helping friends and family in finding the right products, she decided to take it to the next level with the launch of her beautiful online shop. Only health and beauty products that meet her high standard of quality, eco-friendliness, and clean ingredients are included. You will find brands of all price categories, as for her it’s not about the price tag, but the quality of each hand selected product. Great news is that Sonja ships internationally. Let us surprise you!

On your website, I read that you were a trained attorney-at-law before launching your online shop. Can you tell us a little why you decided to become an entrepreneur and what were the biggest challenges?

I still work as an attorney-at-law on an independent basis. The wish to become an entrepreneur has been in my mind for a long time. As I started to realise that toxic ingredients are used for so many  beauty products, I started to do more and more research and became very passionate about this subject. In the end I decided that I wanted to help others to easily navigate through the beauty jungle out there and find all the great products on one website. That’s how I started my shop.

What would be the best advice after becoming an entrepreneur to give to your younger self at the beginning?

Follow your dreams! It’s the best way to actually find a job or build a business which will last and be successful in the end. Only when you are really passionate about what you are doing, you will go the extra mile and people will believe in what you are doing.

Even Sonja’s dog Mimi is crazy for the GLO Precision Eye Pencil

Last year, you gave birth to your first child. How do you manage to combine both, being a businesswoman and a mother?
A very good question. I can give you the answer in 10 years:-). My baby girl is 11 months old, it does get easier. Of course it is hard to find time for everything, however as I believe in following your dreams, you can make anything happen.

How did you find the brands you are selling?

It all started with a personal passion (and addiction) to find the best brands for myself. So I started researching and researching and researching… During my travels for example, I was always checking the spas and local shops for their products, exploring their ideas about beauty, their philosophy. It is a continuing journey and really an addiction, I cannot stop looking for good brands, I am still doing so to expand my collection. I truly love all the products I am selling.

What is the common thread?

All brands work on a natural basis, are cruelty-free, non-toxic or anything similar. I am convinced that we all should reduce chemicals as much as possible in our lives, and only use them where they are really necessary. Most of the time, we forget our bathroom shelf. I was absolutely shocked once I learned about the ingredients that my former beauty products included, such as Polyethylene for example, a common component of plastics. This so-called microplastic is included in so many products, especially in facial scrubs, face wash or hands soaps among others. Besides being a primary concern for your health, those very small pieces also pollute the environment.

What is your own beauty routine?

I try to keep it simple, not too many products at once but change of routine/products from time to time:
– Morning: 1. cleaning, 2. face serum or cream depending on the season, 3. eye cream 4. sunscreen (always!)
– Evening: 1. cleaning, 2. serum/night cream or night mask, 3. eye cream

Do you have a beauty hack that you like to share with us?

Puh, I would say less is more. Don’t try to overdo it, give your skin time to breathe and use the right products, as natural as possible including some key ingredients. For example Vitamin C & A are great for the skin. I recommend the Vitamin C Treatment from NUORI and the Vitamin A Cream from SKINDESIGNLONDON, the latter will soon be available, so please stay tuned.

Sonja’s favorites

What are your favorite products on your website? Products we shouldn’t miss and why…

– Of course the Déesse Pro LED Mask, because it is the only beauty tool that replaces a treatment from a professional cosmetician.
– The Lumion Face Mist. I love it, especially at the moment, due to its antibacterial effects. It helps before an acne breakout and provides you with a clean face whenever you need it.
– The Regulatpro Hyaluron Anti Aging Drink. As we all know, beauty also comes from within. This is my daily dose of highly effective hyaluronic acid which naturally beautifies the skin, connective tissue, hair and nails.
– The Natural Perfumes from Dedcool LA. They smell fantastic and combine highest quality with natural ingredients. They are vegan, non-toxic, contain no palates, no parabens, no carcinogens and cruelty-free.
– GLO Pressed Base Powder. For me the best powder I tried so far, as your skin can breathe and it includes no harmful ingredients.
– FÎ-NE Deodorant Vetvier Geranium. Deodorants without aluminium salts are much better for your health and absolutely trendy at the moment. However, it is hard to find a good one that works and provides day-long protection. That’s why I like this one and its smell in Vetvier Geranium is divine.
– The Kokoso Coconut Oil for me and my little girl. It can be applied easily, is all natural with healing effects and can be used all over your body as often as you like. My absolute favourite coconut oil.
– If your budget is a bit higher, you will love the JK7 Golden Face Oil, it’s amazing. This beauty brand is a class of its own, very high performing and all natural. Once you have tried it, you will know what I am talking about.
But on my site, there are so many more amazing products, I could go on and on.

Do you use the Déesse PRO LED Mask on a regular base? Can you tell us a little more about this product?

The Déesse Pro LED Mask is where it all started for me. I was in the US for a few months and every cosmetic studio had a light therapy offering. I stumbled over the Déesse PRO LED Mask as it was the best one on the market and I found out that all stars and their cosmetic studios use this mask, like Shani Darden in LA for example. Of course, I needed to have it. Coming back to Switzerland, my friends were really interested to get to know this mask and as shipping to Switzerland was not possible at this time, I partnered up with the brand to do their exclusive retail here.

Ever since I got it in 2018, I use it on a very regular basis, sometimes daily, sometimes once a week, depending on my schedule. The good thing about the mask for me is, that I can also use it while watching TV. However, be careful, Déesse Masking in front of the TV is not for everyone, if you have sensitive eyes stay away from this. So what else can I say about this product. Maybe one thing, for me it was very interesting to find out that even NASA did some color studies and found out that this actually works. I still can’t believe that it is not yet popular in Switzerland. I am sure this will change.

Sonja Frey – a true pioneer when it comes to natural beauty

Sonja Frey in three words (adjectives).

Young, free and wild – haha, jokes aside: loving, intuitive, caring.

Thank you, Sonja, for sharing your beauty tips and experience with us!

As you know me, I always try things for myself to give you the best report possible. I have used the Déesse Pro LED Mask now for over 4 weeks and the results are truly amazing. I was blown away myself. Stay tuned, as I will post the detailed article about this beauty tool and light therapy in general shortly.

LoL, Sandra

Instagram @soniafrey.sonicares
Photos: © Sonja Frey

A common refrain during the COVID-19 pandemic: Life is a blur. The days all seem to blend together — is it Tuesday or Friday? It’s Thursday! Before the lockdown, my week consisted of a handful of recurring activities, obligations and other plans. I knew it is Thursday because I am my having my yoga class. Being stuck at home has completely distorted my sense of time. I have to remind myself which day of the week it actually is. Therefore, I decided to make life feel a little more normal by adding a routine to my week and by dressing up in a very comfy way when working at my desk. Today’s look has become actually my favorite quarantine outfit!

However, I am spending even more time looking at my screen with multiple Zoom Meetings, so many posts to be written and changes to adapt. Therefore a ritual that has become pretty additive for me is the application of my LA MER EYE CONCENTRATE. It adds some structure to my life in quarantine, helps me to focus when my thoughts are drifting away at home.

My look: GG logo jersey jacket, matching GG logo jersey sweat pants, red T-shirt with tennis embroidery, Rajah large embellished leather-trimmed tweed tote, Dionysus leather-trimmed bouclé-tweed shoulder bag, Angelina crystal-embellished tweed sandals, all by Gucci, bow-detailed embellished satin headband by Prada, and hoop earrings by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © David Biedert Photography
Location: Presidential Suite / Park Hyatt Zurich
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Today, I would like to introduce you to my dear friend Erica Pelosini Leeman. If you don’t know who this bundle of energy is, then you’ve been sleeping under a rock. Being an extroverted Italian stylist, editor and creative director who’s contributing regularly to Vogue and other high-end fashion titles, she has been traveling constantly around the globe for fashion shoots and all sorts of glamorous events. As her hectic life has come to a halt this year due to the corona crisis, she took this unique opportunity to reflect and channel all her amazing energy towards creating something that can make staying at home a bit more pleasant: THE SURVIVAL BOX.

Erica Pelosini Leeman

SLEEP, EAT, RESET, HEAL and REPEAT – that is the motto. Survival Box’s goal is for everyone to be strong and survive this unique and challenging time and also to help families and children in need along the way! By buying a box not only are you gifting yourself some amazing goodies but you are also helping to further Erica’s mission of providing essential items and basic food to children and families in need deeply impacted by Covid-19.

Our lifestyle before the corona virus: Erica and I together on a yacht for the fragrance launch of Tom Ford Lavender Extrême in Gordes, at the De Grisogono Gala during Cannes Film Festival or celebrating Mary Katrantzou and her fantastic S/S 2020 show in Athens.

Erica, do you miss all your travels at the moment?
I would never have thought I would say this, but actually NO! However, I am of course missing my family in Florence but I am very happy that they are all safe in quarantine in our country side house with our  horses and dogs!
Just before everything started I was traveling nonstop, in one month I had been to Aspen 5 times, Milano, Florence, Germany, Paris, LA, NY, St Barth’s. First I thought, I hap planned to stay in the Caribbean but I got scared I couldn’t go back to California where I’m now super happy to be! For once home with my husband and my dog!

You HAVE so much energy. How does your day look like during quarantine?
You know me well! After spending some time organizing my closet, bags, shoes by colour (something I NEVER thought I would have time to do in my life), learning how cook something more elaborate than my green juice in the morning, almost getting a sun burn at my pool, I took some time off to think, about my friends and everything that is going on in the world at the moment. This was the point, when I decided to invest all my energy towards something good, to keep my friends healthy and strong but at the same time to help others that really need our support! There are so many innocent families affected by the corona crisis due to school closures, financial problems or domestic violence.

This was exactly when the idea of «the survival box» came to my mind, to pamper while staying at home, a box filled with many goodies that support everyone’s well-being and health.  We already got requests from hospitals to have the boxes delivered as a treat for their doctors and nurses. This made me so happy, to know that «the survival box» can also be a treat for those angels that are working on the frontline daily for all us.

How did you choose the products for the survival box? Did you know most of them before or did you go on a virtual «treasure hunt»?
I’m a total freak when it comes to health and well being. In my free time, I have always loved researching the best vitamins, workouts, super food, hair and beauty products. I literally put all this knowledge in my project so that everyone can boost their immune system while being at home and make quarantine a little bit more enjoyable so that we will all glow once this crisis is over. Everything to stay healthy, strong, hydrated, informed, styled, fit, and energized, you can find in the box !

From eating clean with Gr8nola’s charcoal gluten free granola, to chilling and getting some good sleep with Ouai Miracle Chill Bath Pills and glowing skin with Shea Marie’s new skincare line «The Feelist», to my favorite detox Sorate green tea, one of the best sources of antioxidants; then you can train with celebrity-obsession Body By Simone workouts, and get advice on how to age gracefully with Naturium Retinol cream and go-to kick Vitamin C from Vital Proteins. You will also get the ultimate clear skin routine from Zitstika, the perfect way to style your hair while at home with Mermade hair and advice from the experts in health, wellness, fitness, food, and beauty at C Magazine.

What is the first thing you will do once this quarantine time is over?
I have many amazing projects on hold that I hopefully can reveal then. But so far, I truly wish that I will be able to spend the summer with my family as this has always been our tradition.

SLEEP, EAT, RESET, HEAL and REPEAT – that is the motto. Survival Box’s goal is for everyone to be strong and survive this unique and challenging time and also to help families and children in need along the way! By buying a box not only are you gifting yourself some amazing goodies but you are also helping to further Erica’s mission of providing essential items and basic food to children and families in need deeply impacted by Covid-19.

30% of all the proceeds will be donated to charity. Furthermore, a 10% discount will be applied if you would like to gift a box to the amazing doctors, nurses and health care workers at the hospitals. A much well deserved treat after a long shift at the frontlines. And great news is – THE SURVIVAL BOX ships internationally.

As Erica says: «We are all in this together. Stay safe. Stay healthy. Stay home.
BEING KIND IS COOL!»
Thank you!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © THE SURVIVAL BOX – Instagram:@survivalbox.co and @ericapelosini

Personally speaking, when it comes to skincare, my eyes are the most challenging area to deal with as it consists of the most delicate skin on the face. Unfortunately, they show signs of aging first with the development of fine lines and wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness, loss of firmness, dryness, and uneven texture. Even if these signs are not apparent yet, most of the damage may already be done under the surface of the skin. So you might thank me for today’s post in a few years, however, with a little care, and the right approach, your eyes can remain radiant and vibrant.

There is a lot we can do to minimize the aging effects in the eye area. Environmental stressors and lifestyle play a huge part in the aging process, accelerating the rate of visible damage. Slowing down, even it is just for a few minutes during the day, play an important role. Furthermore, the use of a scientifically formulated eye cream can slow the aging process in the eye area as it will hydrate, brighten, firm, decrease puffiness, and smooth the skin’s texture. It is never too late (or too early) to care for this delicate area.

With triple the Concentrated Miracle Broth™, the newly formulated LA MER Eye Concentrate helps transform the delicate eye area with essential energy and healing hydration to reduce the look of dark circles, lines and wrinkles in 3 weeks. Lime Tea Concentrate, the antioxidant powerhouse, helps prevent future damage before it begins. The result? An enlightened new eye area — one that looks smoother, brighter and healthier than before.

At least twice daily, dab a small amount onto applicator and gently massage onto eye area for increased micro-circulation. My favorite personal hack? First, stow La Mer’s eye treatment applicator in the fridge for 3 to 5 minutes for a refreshing revamp of your go-to eye regimen. Secondly, carry the applicator and the Eye Concentrate with you, especially when you are travelling or busy with work. This fast-absorbing treatment works also perfectly over your make-up.

Gently sweep it over the eye area with the applicator for pure relaxation. It also helps me to concentrate during the day as rolling it under the eye area has almost a meditative sensation for me. This much needed hydration will boost your energy level while encouraging natural drainage.

Available now for CHF 270.00 (15ml).
Enjoy Complimentary Standard Shipping and two samples at checkout with every order. CLICK HERE TO SHOP THE LA MER EYE CONCENTRATE ONLINE.

Don’t forget – the eyes are the window to the soul, so better make them look your best.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © David Biedert Photography
Location: Park Hyatt Zurich
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Today on Easter Saturday, I would love to spoil you to the fullest with the newest fragrance launches. From fruity florals to white musks, there’s a perfume pick for everyone. Forget chocolate, this year it’s all about beauty surprises for Easter. You can order all of these goodies online, spoil yourself during quarantine. Cheers to that!

LoL, Sandra

ELIE SAAB Le Parfum Essentiel
Eau de Parfum

Elie Saab welcomes a new interpretation of its signature perfume, Le Parfum, for the woman who truly values what’s essential. The white floral chypre fragrance comes with a dazzling effervescence of Mandarin combined with an enveloping Gardenia Accord and a sophisticated Cedary Note.

CHF 78.00 (30ml), CHF 115.00 (50ml), CHF 153.00 (100ml)

Love CHOPARD 
Eau de Parfum

This red carpet signature fragrance is crafted around a whirl of the most precious rose essences and natural ingredients, responsibly sourced all over the world. An ode to the rose, queen of love, queen of flowers and queen of perfumery – composed around six exceptional varieties of roses, among which some of the most extraordinary roses, such as Bulgarian rose oil, Turkish rose absolute and Centifolia rose absolute.

CHF 68.00 (30ml), CHF 102.00 (50ml), CHF 137.00 (100ml)

DIOR HYPNOTIC POISON
Roller-Pearl

Enjoy this new fragrance gesture by Dior – a glass bottle topped with a delicate pearl for discreet and sensorial fragrance application. The magnetic, sensual Vanilla of Hypnotic Poison accompanies you anywhere, anytime.

CHF 55.00 (20ml)

DIOR HYPNOTIC POISON
Hair Mist

Perfuming the hair is a sensual, seductive gesture for mysterious and elusive femininity. This mist pays tribute to this fragrance ritual with an Almond-enriched formula, enveloping hair in a  veil of beauty. Generoulsy perfumed, hair unleashes the full intensity of Hypnotic Poison’s legendary Almond, Jasmine Sambac and Vanilla accords for a captivating and magnetic trail.

CHF 62.00 (40ml)

Gabrielle CHANEL Essence
Eau de Parfum

Inspired by the free and passionate woman who became Coco Chanel, this new essence is a more voluptuous, intensely feminine interpretation of the luminous floral fragrance. The striking square glass bottle is reimagined with bolder golden accents on the cap and label. Composed by In-House Perfumer Creator Olivier Polge, this deep and enveloping scent is an imaginary flower, faceted with Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, Orange Blossom and the most captivating flower of all, Grasse Tuberose. Solar and voluptuous, the scent of a radiant woman.

CHF 95.00 (35ml), CHF 207.00 (150ml)

Fleur Musc NARCISO RODRIGUEZ for her
Eau de Toilette Florale

This new flanker of the iconic for her fragrance comes with the signature heart of Musc that bursts into a vibrant floralbouquet of spices and wood to create a sparkling scent. It reinterprets a woman’s sensuality with supreme confidence and passion. I really like its pink matte bottle.

CHF 102.60 (50ml)

Straight to Heaven BY KILIAN Extrême
Eau de Parfum Refillable Spray

To mark its tenth year anniversary, Kilian pushes two of its heritage scents to their olfactive extremes. Get an overdose of Vanilla and Rum in this very sophisticated scent. Addictive personalities, beware. Like any liquor taken straight, it hits fast, hard and leaves you wanting more. Skipping purgatory altogether, it heads straight to heaven as notes of Martinique Rum hit climax in high dose. The scent of burning rum gently rounds off into a smouldering sensuality of nutmeg essence. A woody amber trail remains, grounded by dark Patchouli and Dry Cedar Wood essence. Inciting the passions comes a lift of vanilla absolute from Madagascar. A beautiful unisex fragrance and definitely the Rolls-Royce among these perfumes.

CHF 335.00 (50ml)

MOËT & CHANDON Rosé Impérial brut
Champagne

And last but not least cheers to Easter! Taste and smell go hand in hand and champagne is always a good idea! Rosé Imperial displays a pink color with amber highlights. Lively and intense, the bouquet exudes red fruits (wild strawberry, raspberry, cherry) with floral nuances of rose and a slight hint of pepper. On the palate, the wine shows a juicy intensity of berries (strawberry, raspberry, red currant) rounded out by the fleshiness and firmness of peach and the freshness of a subtle note of mint.

CHF 57.50 (75cl)

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands, © Sandra Bauknecht
#LoveChopard #ChopardLuxuryNaturalsPerfumery #RedCarpetForever
#MoetMoments #Apero #Easter 

Having a spa day at home can be just as relaxing and beautifying as a day spent somewhere expensive. Pick a day when you won’t have any interruptions, turn off your mobile phone, and light some candles to set the scene. Use a body scrub to completely exfoliate your arms, legs, and torso. Your skin will feel soft, smooth and healthy when you get out of the shower. Follow with deep nourishing and a self tanner to achieve a glow as if you just came back from a beach holiday. Enjoy those new and innovative products below that have just been launched this spring.

LoL, Sandra

LA MER The Renewal Body Oil Balm
One of my favorite new products! A lightly scented hydrating body balm that melts into a silken body oil on contact to create hydrated glowing skin all over.

LIERAC Body-Hydra Micropeeling
This innovative micropeeling scrub hydrates and plumps the skin while providing it with a gentle exfoliating action. Infused with two forms of hyaluronic acid, as well as repairing silicium, it re-firms and re-plumps the skin, leaving it radiant and renewed. I personally love its smell.

HAIR RITUEL BY SISLEY Color Perfecting Shampoo
I don’t have grey hair yet and don’t colour my hair but I have many girlfriends who truly suffer that they cannot go to the hair dresser at the moment. Therefore I recommend this shampoo that is designed to gently cleanse and care for colored and highlighted hair. The color is prolonged and doesn’t fade after repeated washes.

SISLEY Self Tanning Hydrating Body Skin Care
SISLEY Self Tanning Hydrating Facial Skin Care
Get a summer glow while enjoying your home office. Those two new self-tanners come with a fresh and pleasant fragrance, and are enriched with moisturizing active ingredients, to give the skin a lasting golden glow. From the very first application, they provide a natural-looking tan (even on light skin). To achieve optimum results on your body, use the velvet tan applicator mitt provided with the product.

CLARINS Extra-Firming Neck & Décolleté
Inspired by the movement of the sunflower’s stem, Clarins Laboratories combined sunflower extracts – unsaponifiables obtained from the seed and auxins obtained from the stem – to visibly improve the elasticity and firmness of the flexible neck and décolleté area, boosting the skin’s resistance to daily bending and rotating while protecting against premature signs of aging.

VALMONT Primary Pomade
Created to provide intense nourishment for even the driest skin, this next-generation balm plunges deep into the epidermis to replenish and soften dry or flaky skin. The skin is smooth, soft, feels comfortable, and heals faster after an aggression. You can use it on the face – I personally love putting it on my elbows, feet and knees.

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands and © Sandra Bauknecht

Last week, I received a lovely surprise from the Estée Lauder Companies. A box filled with all sorts of amazing products from several of their brands (I am always amazed how many beauty labels actually belong to the American conglomerate…) that are perfect for a spa day at home. Thank you!

With all of the stresses of the current crisis, it’s important to indulge sometimes. I am truly missing seeing my friends, dressing up to go out and having a spa treatment. The latter can be achieved easily at home and why not make it a monthly at-home regimen in the future to relax and revitalize while saving some money.

I am planning to look all radiant and glowing when social life will finally back on. Working from home can also be seen as some kind of holidays. Always see the good side of life and enjoy those products here that I can truly recommend for some pampering at home. You can order them all online.

LoL, Sandra

GLAMGLOW Bubblesheet™ Oxygenating Deep Cleanse Mask
This carbonated fizzy foam mask effectively removes dirt, excess oil, and makeup buildup. The translucent cleanser begins the oxygenating transformation into a face-forming foam cushion and 3-D microbubbles foam in all directions for the ultimate detox.

AVEDA be curly™ intensive detangling masque
Easily separate the most tangled curls and coils while moisturizing with certified organic babassu oil and shea butter. Fight frizz and improve the look of curls with every use. My daughter says AMAZING!

AVEDA beautifying composition oil™
Aromatic, nourishing oil for body, bath and scalp softens and moisturizes skin with a nourishing blend of certified organic olive and safflower oils. Also excellent as a bath additive, massage oil or hair and scalp treatment.

AVEDA stress-fix™ concentrate stress-relieving aroma
The aroma proven to reduce feelings of stress includes certified organic lavender, lavandin and clary sage and is formulated using the science of aromaology and the power of pure essential oils. Glide rollerball over pulse points and enjoy aroma any time you’d like to reduce feelings of stress.

CLINIQUE clinique smart clinical
 Two innovative moisturizers, one jar. An instant-tightening gel-cream and an instant plumping dense-cream that resculpts, revolumizes and reshapes your appearance.

ORIGINS Never A Dull Moment™
Skin Brightening Face Polisher
Achieve a glowing complexion with this face polisher with fruit extracts, an exfoliating face scrub enriched with extract of crushed papaya to slough away surface grime and makeup. Its blend of fruit extracts work in synergy to impart a radiant, polished complexion.

BOBBI BROWN Makeup Melter & Cleanser
A gentle cleanser that bubbles into a lightweight foam to melt away impurities and long-wearing makeup, leaving skin feeling soft, soothed and comforted.

DARPHIN 8-Flower Golden Nectar
Youth Renewing
Your daily elixir for rejuvenated skin with 8 Precious Flowers, 24K Gold and over 20 botanical and essentials oils. Beneficial for all skin types.

ESTÉE LAUDER Advanced Night Repair
Synchronized Recovery Complex II
Powerful nighttime renewal serum for radiant, youthful-looking skin. Instantly adds radiance. Intensely hydrates and significantly reduces the look of key signs of aging.

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands and © Sandra Bauknecht 

«I was looking for something poetic, like a memory – a natural filter that makes everything look dreamier.» Lucia Pica

Today’s post about CHANEL‘s new S/S 2020 make-up collection, called DESERT DREAM, will make you literally dream, something we need in today’s difficult times.

If the eye is a camera with its shutter open – always recording, turning experience into image – it is Lucia Pica’s unerring instinct to train her lens on visions less familiar. Seeking inspiration for her S/S 2020 collection, the CHANEL Global Creative Makeup and Color Designer took a photographic trip to the center of the ancient desert, an expedition that uncovered a completely new perspective on color.

Initially drawn to the desert for its famous orange dunes, sacred cave paintings and lunar plains, Lucia Pica was soon captivated by the uncanny silence of the vast nothingness she found there, its powerful stillness moving her to reappraise the landscape through fresh eyes. Shifting her gaze toward the quieter hues of the quartzes, basalts and shales scattered across the desert floor, and forests bleached by the relentless sun, Lucia Pica unearthed a muted palette that is surprising new territory for her. DESERT DREAM is characterized by peachy rose tones, cool browns and the romantic undercurrents of mauve, whose shimmering, at times metallic textures echo the desert’s hidden treasures.

«It was beautiful in the desert but quite unexpected,» Lucia Pica says. «In the desert, there is almost a universe of one single, dominant color – mauve – which really came to life with the particular photographic process we used.»

Like distant memories, the dreamy Polaroid pictures at the heart of DESERT DREAM lend their sensual soft focus and painterly abstractions to a makeup collection that is perhaps Lucia Pica’s most poetic take on femininity yet. Using the prints’ soft colors to bring subtle emotion to the face – mysterious, mauve intensity to the eyes, planes of warm light on the high cheeks and red-hot desert heat on the lips – Lucia Pica evokes a womanly state of inner calm, self-possession and utter contentment.

DESERT DREAM
SPRING SUMMER 2020 COLLECTION
Le Teint
Eclat du Désert CHF 70.-
Exclusive Creation (Edition Limitée)
Baume Essentiel CHF 55.-
Golden Light (Edition Limitée)

Les Lèvres
Rouge Allure CHF 48.-
191 Rouge Brûlant
Rouge Allure Velvet Extrême CHF 48.-
132 Endless

Les Ongles
Le Vernis CHF 33.-
735 Daydream
739 Mirage

Le Regard
Les 4 Ombres CHF 77.-
352 Elemental
354 Warm Memories
Ombre Première Laque CHF 42.-
22 Rayon
24 Rising Sun (Edition Limitée)
26 Quartz Rose
28 Desert Wind
32 Vastness
Stylo Ombre et Contour CHF 42.-
34 Contour Brun (Edition Limitée)
36 Contour Mauve (Edition Limitée)

YOU CAN SHOP THIS BEAUTIFUL COLLECTION ONLINE AT MARIONNAUD.

LoL, Sandra

 Photos: © CHANEL