Sandra‘s Closet

Makeup for midnight – Bring in the New Year beautifully! From epic parties to more low-key hangouts, New Year’s Eve is one time of year when going all-out with your beauty look is always appreciated. Here are some great products for you to consider:

The Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation SPF20 by La Mer
For the perfect complexion. My tip: Use it as body makeup – just add a few drops to your body lotion and massage onto your arms, legs and décolletage.

Blur Expert Powder by Sisley
My all time favorite: this powder gives you the same airbrushed finish as your favorite Instagram filter, but in real life.

Eye-Conic Longwear Eyeshadow Palette – Glambition 720 by Marc Jacobs Beauty
An amazing neutral eyeshadow palette for New Year’s Eve.

See-quins Glam Glitter Eyeshadow – Blitz Glitz 92 by Marc Jacobs Beauty
Inspired by the shimmery luster of sequins, this smooth, blendable formula washes lids in multi-dimensional shine.

SPF15 Baume De Rose Lip Care by By Terry
Bursting with nourishing ingredients and glossy without being sticky – I love everything about this  cult-favorite. Simply dab it on to instantly soothe and plump your lips or mix it with your favorite lipstick color.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands

Looking for some last minute surprises or great make-up products for New Year’s Eve. Bobbi Brown knows exactly how to do Christmas and this year is no exception! Check out Bobbi Brown Holiday 2019 Luxe Gems Collection and dazzle all season with rich jewel tones, luxe textures and hyponic finishes.

The best is that Bobbi Brown has joined forces with instantly recognizable accessory line Edie Parker for this collection. The result? Beautifully designed packaging reminiscent of the iconic clutches.

Luxe Gems Eye Shadow Palette

The ultimate «top shelf» palette that is our ticket to any invite only party. Rich in jewel tones and luxurious textures, this palette holds the gemstone tones for all your holiday looks.
CHF 105.00

Luxe Jewel Lipstick

Shine through the holiday season with festive sparkle lipstick. A single swipe of the pearl-infused formula delivers silky, full-coverage color and hydration for every party look.
My favorite color: Tahitian Pearl

CHF 50.00

Luxe Highlighting Powder

A high-impact, light-reflective powder that gives skin shimmering pink highlights and is ideal for strobing. In limited-edition Luxe kaleidoscopic packaging for Holiday.
Pink Glow

CHF 72.00

TO SHOP BOBBI BROWN ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Bobbi Brown Cosmetics

Are you good at gifting? Come in! Frédéric Malle grew up immersed in the world of perfumery, and has a deep knowledge of raw materials, fragrance structure and accords. His ‘Editions’ collection includes scents by distinguished noses including Dominique Ropion, Jean-Claude Ellena and Pierre Bourdon.

This holiday season, Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle offers a truly kaleidoscopic range from which to select the perfect gift. The gift that says I was thinking of you, I care, I remember…, or perhaps just, I hope this brings you joy.

Find a gift that is as unique as its owner, a gift that is a perfect match, a gift that will wrap him, or her in luxury, and will be the perfect reflection of the person wearing it. So many original perfumes, but also home scents: candles, rubber incense, perfume guns, linen sprays, hand creams and soaps…. As well as many other items that will dazzle and enchant you.

Perfume is a powerful thing. Whether it’s your signature scent as you kiss someone good bye, your exquisite trail as you leave a room, or the particular mood that evaporates throughout your home to change its atmosphere, or even the lingering whiff of perfume on sheets.

Choosing a perfume for oneself is a deeply personal experience. But choosing one for someone else can be a way to say what is often left unsaid. It needs care and attention. Taking the time to put yourself in someone else’s shoes, to imagine their desires, is an intimate act. An attention that requires empathy and often affection.

In addition to a curated selection of perfumes, scented objects, and other gifts, this year’s holiday season is wrapped with the homely design of Konstantin Kakanias.
The L.A based artist, and friend of Frédéric Malle is not only a celebrated artist holding shows regularly in the US and Europe. He is also the author of the Mrs Tependris albums, and collaborated with T Magazine, Vogue, Vanity Fair, Yves Saint Laurent, and Christian Lacroix.

TO SHOP FREDERIC MALLE ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

Luxurious, happy, mistake-free gifting.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Frédéric Malle

If I dedicate a post to just one product, it means that this product can do some magic… How does highlighting, brightening and energizing for a lit-from-within glow sound?

With LA MER‘s The Hydrating Illuminator you can instantly awaken your skin with a luminescent glow. Infused with Miracle Broth™ and antioxidants, this multi-use highlighter diffuses and redirects light to brighten and enhance while amplifying skin’s natural radiance with nourishing hydration.

Complementing a range of skintones with radiant pearls, this universal shade plumps skin’s appearance with a healthy-looking, fresh glow.

The Hydrating Illuminator (40ml) is available now for CHF 80.00.
TO SHOP LA MER ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

A stroke of brilliance for you…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of La Mer

This holiday season, Caudalie offers all sorts of amazing gift sets to surprise your loved ones.
One has caught my eye… as the set leaves you looking runway-ready in seconds. Unlock the mystery to naturally glowing skin with the Caudalie Eau de Beauté set.

This limited edition gift set (CHF 42.20) contains:

– Beauty Elixir (100ml): The iconic refreshing and toning mist sets make-up, tightens pores and provides an instant boost of radiance to the complexion. (The beauty secret used by makeup artists backstage at shows.)

– Instant Foaming Cleanser (50ml): This gentle, soap-free formula purifies and cleanses while respecting the natural balance of the skin. Leaves skin feeling soft, comfortable and radiant.

– Instant Detox Mask (15ml): The clay mask that deep-cleanses and tightens pores.

And great news is that five lucky readers can win it!

To participate, please send me an e-mail with your postal address and the header «CAUDALIE» to . All entries must be received until December 17, 2019. No purchase or payment of any kind is necessary to enter or win this contest. By entering this contest, entrants accept and agree to be bound by these official rules. The winner has to have a Swiss address.

Good luck!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Caudalie

Disco. Decadence. The ultimate indulgence. Sometimes you get an invitation that is so amazing you want to show it to the world… in this case a dear friend of mine is celebrating a Studio 54 party in New York City next weekend. I couldn’t have wished for a better theme. Studio 54, the legendary world-famous night club of the late ’70s, located at 254 West 54th Street, between Eighth Avenue and Broadway in Midtown Manhattan, was the landmark of various parties in the art and fashion world and the hot spot for all celebrities of the era.

At the peak of the disco dancing and music trend, it was founded and created by Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager in 1977, and sold in 1980 to Mark Fleischman, who reopened the club after it had been shut down following Rubell and Schrager’s convictions on charges of tax evasion.

Studio 54 has become a dress code in itself: it means sparkling mini dresses, sequins, jumpsuits, platform sandals and Farrah Fawcett hair. Michael Kors admittedly skipped his own prom for a night out at Studio 54, so it’s fitting that the former NYC club serves as inspiration for his F/W 2019 collection.

TO SHOP ALL CLOTHING AND BEAUTY PRODUCTS BELOW, JUST CLICK ON THE HIGHLIGHTED DESCRIPTIONS PLEASE:

One of my favorite pieces of the collection – Look 65 (also featured in the ad campaign)
Feather-trimmed sequined silk-georgette mini dress by Michael Kors Collection.

Look 13
Asymmetric sequined stretch-jersey halterneck dress by Michael Kors Collection

Look 52
Glittered cashmere tank by Michael Kors Collection

Look 56
Knotted stretch-lamé midi dress by Michael Kors Collection

Look 67
Metallic fil coupé leopard-jacquard midi dress by Michael Kors Collection

Another designer who is constantly inspired by his mom’s Studio 54 days is Michael Halpern. Since he graduated Central Saint Martins MA in the class of 2016, the London’s resident New Yorker is going for full glitter-disco looks. Just one word: amazing!

Look 3
Draped sequined tulle halterneck midi dress by Halpern

Look 12
Asymmetric sequined chiffon mini dress by Halpern

Look 22
Sequined tulle flared pants and off-the-shoulder ruffled sequined tulle top, both by Halpern.

Look 25
One-sleeve draped asymmetric stretch-jersey midi dress by Halpern

Look 32
Draped animal-print sequined stretch-tulle jumpsuit by Halpern

And as far as your beauty looks are concerned, look no further than the just-released Studio 54 for NARS collection. Start the party with iconic shades; own the night with exclusive bolds and brights.

Never Enough Mini Lipstick Coffret by NARS

Limited Edition Explicit Content Mascara Set by NARS

Studio 54 Outshine 4-Piece Lip Gloss Set  by NARS

Softcore Blush and Balm Set – Torrid by NARS

Glitter. Glamour. Excess. Expression. Consider this your VIP ticket beyond the velvet rope. Once you’re in, anything goes.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands

Recently, I was invited by SEPHORA to explore their FROSTED CHRISTMAS specials at Kaufleuten in Zurich within a festive atmosphere. The event was a beauty addict’s winter wonderland. Have a sneak peek below into this beautiful universe, get inspired and make your beauty wishes come true!

I included my favorite products but there is so much more to discover…

Glossy Posse Mini Gloss Collector’s Set by Fenty Beauty by Rihanna – CHF 49.90
A limited- edition collection of five mini Gloss Bomb shades.

«Winter Wonderglam» Eye Shadow Palette by Tarte – CHF 71.90
Includes 24 eye shadows, a liquid eye liner, a mascara and a double-sided applicator.

«Brow Superstars» in a hat by Benefit – CHF 89.90
Everything you need for the perfect eyebrows.

«GingerbreadBronzed & Kissed» Set by Too Faced – CHF 49.90
Includes a Gingerbread Tan Bronzer and a Matte Lipstick in Peach Kiss plus a limited edition pouch.

Life Liner Duo Pencil by Huda Beauty –  CHF 32.50
The ultimate lifeproof, dual-ended eyeliner with a liquid tip one side and pencil on the other.

Christmas Set «Holiday Heroes» by Mario Badescu – CHF 59.90
Everything you need to perfectly clean your skin.

Igloo Box of Masks by Sephora – CHF 29.90
7 masks for every occasion.

Set «Carnaval Dreams» by Sol Janeiro – CHF 49.90
Including Lip Balm «Brazilian Kiss», Facial Cream «Brazilian Bum Bum», Shower Gel «Brauzilian 4 Play» and Cream «Coco Cabana».

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Debora Zeyrek for Sephora
#sephoraswitzerland #SephoraFrostedChristmas @sephoraswitzerland

Hair colorist Christophe Robin’s award-winning products protect tresses from the damaging effects of highlighting and coloring. More often than not, hair prone to frizz tends to be damaged. When hair cuticles are sealed, hair is healthy and strong. Therefore, I love the Care X Style range from Christophe Robin, and its two new bespoke additions dedicated to nurturing curls and fighting frizz.

Anti-Frizz Rescue Milk, 150ml

This ‘Rescue Milk’ is the solution for frizzy, unmanageable tresses. Enriched with Shea Butter, vitamins and Omega 3 and 6 to nourish hair, this lightweight, non-sticky formula smooths flyaways by sealing cuticles for up to 48 hours. You can use it to touch-up blowouts in-between washes, too.

Luscious Curl Cream, 150ml

Christophe Robin knows that curls can sometimes be hard to manage, so he created this cream to help tame and enhance your tresses. Lightweight and non-greasy, it’s infused with Fatty Acids and Flaxseed Oil to nourish and smooth away frizz. The result? Shinier, healthier, more beautiful waves.

Both products are made from 99% natural-origin ingredients, suitable for all hair types and free from silicone, alcohol and artificial fragrance.

TO SHOP CHRISTOPHE ROBIN ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Christophe Robin
 @christopherobinparis

My avid readers know that I mostly travel with hand luggage and never without my beloved Beauty Bear™ Age Defy Pillow by Nurse Jamie.

In March 2016, I introduced you for the first time to this amazing anti-ageing helper. For the previous post, click here please.

Today, I would like to show you the newest addition to the brand’s line-up: the advanced version is made from memory foam that offers optimum support while you rest – the signature U-shaped design conforms to the curves of your neck and lumbar muscles. The satin cover minimizes wrinkles caused from sleeping, and prevents night creams or the skin’s natural oils from transferring onto the case.

TO SHOP THE Beauty Bear Age Defy Pillow – Memory Foam Edition, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

I am about to board my flight from Abu Dhabi to London… of course with my beloved pillow!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brand and © Sandra Bauknecht

Based in Grasse, Haute Perfumery brand Le Couvent des Minimes knows exactly what scent lovers dream of, luxury fragrances at accessible prices. The history of the house begins at the namesake Couvent of the Minimes, a majestic place founded in 1614 in the South of France, where a renowned botanist of French king Louis XIV, Louis Feuillée, once lived and worked. His crossing of the continents in search of singular plants left to the convent the legacy of his remarkable journeys and the wildlife he discovered.

Jean Claude Ellena, exclusive Nose for Hermès during fourteen years, is considered as one of the most influential perfumers of Contemporary Perfumery. Today he takes the olfactory direction of Le Couvent des Minimes. His first project with the brand: the new collection of Les
Eaux de Parfums Singulières that I would like to introduce to you today. The five fragrances are exclusively available at Marionnaud in Switzerland.

Ellena has interpreted five unique and surprising portraits of nature, five majestic animals once encountered by the King’s botanist. Olfactory tales elegant, subtle yet intense signature, based on up to 89% noble and rare natural raw materials, all 100% vegan.

LES EAUX DE PARFUM SINGULIÈRES
15% Concentration – 50ml for CHF 54.90 and 100ml for CHF 94.90 (isn’t this just an amazing price?!)

NUBICA
The Sensuality of the Lioness.
Patchouli & Tonka Vanilla

Woody Amber Sensual
Tonka Vanilla has a feline sensuality. Patchouli resonates like botanical leather, wound and ready to be unleashed.

Top Note: Tangerine
Heart Note: Patchouli
Base Notes: Tonka Bean & Vanilla

In the same mood: FLOWER BY KENZO – Kenzo, THIS IS HER – Zadig & Voltaire, TOBACCO VANILLE – Tom Ford, BOIS VANILLE – Serge Lutens

LYSANDRA
The Grace of the Butterfly
Tangerine & Jasmin Grandiflorum

Powdery Floral Delicate
Jasmine Grandiflorum takes flight, while slivers of Mandarin and tears of Labdanum dart to and fro in a fleeting dance.

Top Note: Tangerine
Heart Note: Grandiflorum Jasmine
Base Notes: Vetiver & Labdanum

In the same mood: NARCISO POUDRÉ – Narciso Rodriguez, NUIT DE CELLOPHANE – Serge Lutens, DIORISSIMO – Dior, L’INTERDIT – Givenchy

HATTAÏ
The Enigmatic She-Wolf
Red Berries & Woody Amber

Gourmand Amber Enigmatic
A chiaroscuro impression that reveals the power of the materials: a flash of Amber Woods, a dash of Cacao, the intense sweetness of Red Berries.

Top Note: Red Berries
Heart Note: Cocoa
Base Notes: Cinnamon & Cade Wood

In the same mood: LA VIE EST BELLE – Lancôme, SCANDAL – JP Gaultier, BLACK OPIUM – Yves Saint-Laurent, HYPNOTIC POISON – Dior, JUNGLE – Kenzo

SAÏGA
The Elegance of the Antelope
Rose Centifolia & Blackcurrant Bud

Fruity Floral Elegant
The refined middle notes of Rose Centifolia, intertwined with the fruity, mischievous note of Blackcurrant Bud, remind us that an intense heart beats under this tender cloak.

Top Note: Blackcurrant Bud
Heart Note: Rose Centifolia
Base Note: Cedar Wood

In the same mood: PARIS – Yves Saint-Laurent, INFUSION DE ROSE – Prada, LA NUIT TRESOR – Lancôme, MON GERLAIN ROSE – Guerlain

HELIACA
The Power of the Eagle
Oud Wood & Ginger

Spicy Wood Vibrant
An upward surge of spices bursts forth, a blend of Ginger and Cardamom, revealing the noble power of Oud Wood.

Top Note: Ginger
Heart Note: Cardamom
Base Note: Oud Wood

In the same mood: GENTLEMAN – Givenchy, WANTED BY NIGHT – Azzaro, DIOR HOMME INTENSE – Dior, M7 – Yves Saint-Laurent

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Le Convent des Minimes