Mon Guerlain

As you know, I am a huge fan of niche fragrances and haute perfumery. But there is one Maison that has always impressed me with its “commercial” launches and that is GUERLAIN. Founded in 1828, the French perfume, cosmetics and skincare house is among the oldest in the world. Perfumes by Guerlain are often said to be characterized by a common olfactory accord known as the “Guerlinade“. Let me introduce you to the newest creation:

Thierry Wasser at work

This spring, Guerlain, that was acquired in 1994 by the LVMH group, has launched a new fragrance for a strong, free and sensual woman, MON GUERLAIN, orchestrated by Guerlain Master Perfumer Thierry Wasser. The new women’s fragrance is embodied by Angelina Jolie, an icon of modern, multi-faceted femininity.

Angelina Jolie, the face of Mon Guerlain

Why her? We create perfumes for the women we admire” said Jacques Guerlain, creator of mythical fragrances such as Shalimar, L’Heure Bleue and Mitsouko. Thierry Wasser, Guerlain’s Master Perfumer, drew his inspiration from Angelina Jolie to create a fragrance expressing the idea of the “notes of a woman”: the choices, emotions and dreams that embody modern femininity.

The partnership between Angelina and Guerlain was agreed in Cambodia in December 2015, where she was directing her film First They Killed My Father. It has its roots, however, in Angelina’s childhood memory of her own mother’s love of a Guerlain powder. Angelina Jolie is a filmmaker, Special Envoy of the UN Refugee Agency and co-founder of the Preventing Sexual Violence Initiative. She has donated her entire salary from the Guerlain campaign to charity.

At the heart of the fragrance composition is Tahitensis vanilla – also present in Jicky, Shalimar and Habit Rouge – joined by Carla lavender, Sambac jasmine and sandalwood. Melding fresh and sensual feminine and masculine notes, this audacious accord gives Mon Guerlain its power and modernity.

Mon Guerlain – Carla Lavender

The bottle for the new fragrance revisits the celebrated quadrilobe bottle, inspired by an alchemist’s flacon, designed by Gabriel Guerlain and crafted by Baccarat in 1908. One century later, it is beautifully enhanced by a luxurious glass weight and a golden adornment.

The Mon Guerlain fragrance collection features:
Mon Guerlain Eau de Parfum spray 30ml, 50ml and 100ml
Mon Guerlain Eau de Parfum bottle 1 l

 Mon Guerlain Perfumed Body Lotion 200ml and Mon Guerlain Perfumed Shower Gel 200ml.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Guerlain

Rausch – Herbal Beauty for Your Hair

Last week, I was invited by RAUSCH for a hair treatment and blow dry at MURAT TOKAY. The beautiful salon is located close to Bahnhof Enge in Zurich and Murat, whom I know from his previous job at Charles Aellen Company before he opened his own salon three years ago, is a true figaro, who has an extremely good eye for hair.

Murat Tokay in Zurich

But let’s come back to the company that has actually invited me, RAUSCH. Founded in 1890, it is still owned in third generation by the Baumann family. Guaranteeing the highest possible percentage of natural raw materials from nature, the Swiss brand uses the power of herbs for the health of your hair and skin. The philosophy is pretty impressive. Extracted from 87 herbs, oils and plant extracts, RAUSCH combines centuries-old herbal knowledge from convents with the most modern scientific technique. Premium quality, ideal tolerability and sustainability, the tensides used in RAUSCH haircare are produced using renewable raw materials and are ideal for cleansing and treating both hair and scalp.

My new hair beauty regime

When you start using the products, you might not have the wow-effect you will get from the ones that use a lot of silicones as they coat the hair in a plastic like substance which sits on the strand’s surface giving the appearance of silky soft and smooth hair, but which are actually not so good for the long term health of our hair. Why is that? It is pretty simple, the coating will prevent moisture from penetrating the hair shaft.

It makes absolutely sense to me. By using natural products, your hair will actually benefit in the long run, rather than offering a temporary mask that will cause your hair to worsen overtime

Let’s be frank, 125 years’ experience of careful dealings with herbs seems to be pretty trustworthy. Great news is that the products are fairly priced.

Me getting the hair analysis – on the iPad in front of me I could see my strands enlarged.

I got started off with a hair analysis and was very happy to hear that my scalp and hair is absolutely healthy, just very dry. Therefore they recommended their Egg-Oil NOURISHING SHAMPOO, that is said to nourish the structure of dry hair with valuable proteins from fresh egg yolk and wheatgerm extract. The best? It smells like cake dough. Promise me, to try it! At least smell it, it is so good!

With my new hair beauty regime that was recommended to me, I will hopefully enjoy shiny, bouncy hair styles like the one Murat created for me last week.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and Courtesy of Rausch

Liquid Light for Your Skin

Ladies, let’s be honest! When it comes to skincare, to maintain or achieve youthful, radiant skin, the struggle is real. Therefore I would like to introduce you to the newest wonder potion on the planet: La Prairie’s White Caviar Illuminating Pearl Infusion. I had the honor to try it for one month before the official launch and love its power. This outstanding pearl elixir transforms your skin in just four weeks. For real!

Think of this new skin miracle as liquid light in a bottle. I am talking about protection against environmental factors and skin stressors, plus dark spot correction. And whilst admittedly, it’s not cheap, it will do wonders for your skin. Brighten, lift, recapture the luminosity of younger-looking, healthier skin with White Caviar Illuminating Pearl Infusion.

How does it work?
The scientists at La Prairie have developed a new proprietary breakthrough in the complex science of brightening skin as they discovered that skin’s uneven tone and loss of luminosity are due not only to melanin-induced spots but also to redness and dullness. Therefore they developed a formula – the first of its kind – that works to fight not one but all three types of skin chromatic disorders revealing luminous, healthy skin.

Everyday stress can lead to permanently irritated skin expressing signs of inflammation and redness. Stress factors include: lifestyle-induced cortisol, UV light, pollutants and chemicals that damage the skin’s natural protective barrier. Atmospheric and domestic pollution that assaults the skin, particularly in urban areas, contributes to a grey, dull complexion. Mature, dry or sensitive skin types are especially vulnerable to pollutants. The shell of the caviar pearls in White Caviar Illuminating Pearl Infusion shields the skin from these harmful particles, forming a protective “second skin”. Its unique structure allows active ingredients to penetrate the skin while shielding it from particles and heavy metals that can damage cells and contribute to a dull appearance.

In stores now for CHF 558.00 (30ml). And trust me, you’ll love the results!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of La Prairie Switzerland

Aluminium-Free Deodorants That Work

The issue of aluminium chlorides in deodorants has been discussed among manufacturers, scientists and consumers for a couple of years, now. There are different points of view in the interpretation of scientific research, some of them see potential health hazards caused by the regular use of aluminium salts in deodorants, such as breast cancer.

In order to be on the safe side, I had been looking for the best natural deodorant for quite some time, one that actually works and will leave you stink-free the whole day.

The new WELEDA 24h Deo Roll-on is one that I can truly recommend. I love the sensual scent and long-lasting protection. All three versions use essential oils and ingredients to neutralize odor-causing bacteria without aluminium salts that close the pores and disrupt the body’s innate detoxification. Like this the regulating skin functions are retained.

Weleda Citrus 24h Deo Roll-on
Natural essential oils of lemon and litsea cubeba have a refreshing effect and provide for a pleasant smell.

Weleda Pomegranate 24h Deo Roll-on
The exotic combination of orange and davana creates a sensual fragrance experience with balsamic vanilla notes.

Weleda Men 24h Deo Roll-on
The tart scent of vetiver combined with essential oils of the Litsea cubeba invigorates and provides a pleasant feeling of freshness.

Available now for CHF 9.50 each (50ml).

LoL, Sandra

Photo: © Sandra Bauknecht

Angelic Delights

For twenty-five years, the absolute glamour of the iconic MUGLER fragrance ANGEL has captivated the senses into a unique olfactory vortex.


Nicolas Cloiseau, Creative Director of La Maison du Chocolat, has captured the deliciously surprising notes of this fragrance, blending bergamot, red fruits, praline, vanilla and patchouli, and interpreted its three accords to create three rare chocolates, vibrating with the legendary Angel notes.

CELESTIALFirst tasting note, top note.
A delicate fruit paste with a crisp acidulous attack of moist mandarin, followed by the citrus notes of elegant bergamot with lemon zest, gently tempered by a milk chocolate ganache.

DELICIOUSMiddle tasting note, heart note.
Nostalgic vanilla cotton candy with red fruits and slivers of moist cranberries rev up the delicate layer of praliné with notes of biscuits and nuts enrobed in a layer of dark chocolate.

VOLUPTUOUSFinal tasting note, base note.
An intense patchouli attack with woody and vanilla notes, almost smoky, in a warm sensual dark chocolate ganache with notes of honey and vanilla bourbon.

STARA nod to Angel…
A star with chocolate from Madagascar featuring acidulous notes of red fruits on the palate then notes of nuts persist.

Shelf-life: 10 to 26 days. Available to order from April 24, 2017 here.

For all Angel lovers, I recommend to also get the new ANGEL Eau Sucrée Limited Edition 2017, created by perfumer Dorothee Piot, that was first presented in 2014 and which is now back for a few summer months.

ANGEL EAU SUCRÉE is an ode to sweet indulgence. Sensual and mischievous, EAU SUCRÉE concentrates the aromas of confectionery treats in a swirl of tangy freshness and tantalizingly sweet indulgence. The sugar-coated star glitters with the promise of tangy, decadent delight.

ORIENTAL VANILLA
Top notes: Red Berries
Middle note: Meringue
Base notes: Patchouli and Vanilla

This year’s bottle is coated in a slightly shimmering cobalt blue glaze. The box is decorated with blue and silver stripes, inspired by the codes of traditional confections.

The limited edition Eau de Toilette is in stores now for CHF 69.00 (50ml, not refillable).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Mugler and La Maison du Chocolat

Aerin Rose Cologne Collection

Today I would like to introduce you to the ROSE COLOGNE COLLECTION –  three new fragrance expressions inspired by AERIN LAUDER‘s favorite flower. Those light and luxurious scents are perfect for every occasion and mood. I am already addicted to all three. Even that they are colognes, they last extremely well due to their distinguished ingredients and are great to be sprayed on your clothes, linens, and in a room. A lovely Easter gift for a loved one!

I love long walks on the beach. The roses in my East Hampton garden seem to bloom effortlessly surrounded by the natural beauty of the dunes, water and sky.”
Aerin Lauder

LINEN ROSE Eau de Cologne
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A floral amber rose fragrance that evokes the joy of a relaxed, casual day at the beach, with cool white linen sundresses and sun-kissed roses. Its modern, effortless and free-spirited scent captures the pure simplicity of a rose touched by the salty-cool ocean breezes, open to the sea, sand and sky.

The energizing rush of sundrenched top notes scatter Orange Flower petals among Lemon Leaves to create a vivid burst of freshness. They flow through the enveloping warmth of the rose-filled heart of the fragrance: White Bulgarian Rose, exotic Ylang Ylang, refreshing Coconut Water, Bulgarian Rose Absolute, Bulgarian Rose Oil and Rose Bouton. Like the sun upon the sand and sea, a golden glow emerges in the final notes of Vanilla and Amber. Sun-bleached Vetiver adds the final modern note of depth and refinement.

In Asian gardens, serenity and sensuality balance each other. The roses are cultivated to bring out their seductive fragrance and the peaceful atmosphere is like a quiet meditation on beauty. ”
Aerin Lauder

BAMBOO ROSE Eau de Cologne
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A green floral rose scent blend that brings to mind the formal beauty and artful simplicity of an Asian garden. A scent that draws you irresistibly on as you follow the trail of roses deeper and deeper into the garden.

A refreshing top note of Sicilian Bergamot and Mandarin Blossom fuse effortlessly with dewy Green Leaves for an impression of delicate, elusive femininity. A profusion of White Bulgarian Rose, Bulgarian Rose Absolute, Rose Infusion and Rose Centifolia is enhanced by the cool allure of Jasmine Petals. The final shimmering touch is a hint of Pink Pepper, Amber and Musk.

There’s something so natural and free about the fragrance of an English garden rose. The exhilarating scent comes from its strength as much as its beauty. It’s like a rush of energy.
Aerin Lauder

GARDEN ROSE Eau de Cologne
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This scent takes you into the English countryside, filled with the irrepressible scent of wild roses. Lively, lush and free spirited.

This fresh floral rose scent opens with the natural green notes of Geranium wrapped around the fresh floralcy of Rose Bouton Sauvage. Like a bud opening, the heart of the fragrance unfolds to reveal the uninhibited splendor and depth of White Bulgarian Rose, the rich, full-bodied Rose Bulgare and lush Rose Centifolia. Together, they capture the irresistible spirit of the English garden rose, blooming boldly in the sun, enhanced with the smooth warmth of Sandalwood and Amber and softened by Musk.

The Aerin Rose Cologne Collection is now in stores for CHF 200.00 (200ml) each. In Switzerland exclusively at Globus and esteelauder.ch.

TO SHOP THE NEW AERIN ROSE COLOGNE COLLECTION ONLINE WORLDWIDE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.
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LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Aerin Lauder

Sephora Opening in Zurich

Yesterday evening, I attended the long awaited opening of SEPHORA in Zurich as a shop-in-shop concept at Manor located at Bahnofstrasse 75.

Craziness a few seconds after the doors opened at Sephora Zurich.

Here are some facts:
Selling Space65 m² (small, but filled with great stuff)

Staff: 10 sales associates and one shop manager

Question: which Becca highlighter should I get…

Exclusive brandsMade In Sephora, Too Faced, Make Up For Ever, Marc Jacobs,
Becca, Dr.Jart+, Tony Moly, Caolion, Skinfood, Too Cool for School

Other brands availableNars, Benefit Make Up and Benefit Skincare

ServicesSephora Make Up Bar and Benefit Brow Bar
Thanks to Click & Collect at manor.ch/sephora customers can order all their favorite products online and get them delivered to their preferred  Manor department store in Switzerland.

A goody bag filled with so many amazing products… thank you, Sephora!

Founded in 1969, Sephora is today part of LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton and present in 32 countries worldwide.

LoL, Sandra

With lovely Myriam Françoise at the opening yesterday.

Photos: © David Biedert Photography, © Andrea Monica Hug and © Sandra Bauknecht

Min Liu for M·A·C

Chinese fashion designer Min Liu brings her personal twist on Chinese traditionalism to a mythically charged M·A·C collection. Meditating on the creation and rejuvenation of life, it features bold reds, deep peony pinks and misty metallics, capturing the flow of energy that connects mountains, oceans – and all of us.

This makeup collaboration is nearly otherworldly beautiful. The artwork alone is as amazing as nearly any other one that M·A·C Cosmetics has produced.

Pearlmatte Face Powder – Limited Edition – CHF 49.00
The stunning wave pressed into the powder is beautiful and the blend of the colors will create the ideal look on nearly any face.
First Wavespink, red, grey-beige oversprayed with pearl

Cream Color Base – Limited Edition – CHF 32.00
All Year Redwarm bright red

Eyeshadow x 2 Fortune Duo Lotus – CHF 33.00
Pinkbright pink matte
Platinum Shadowsparkling silver

Fluidline – CHF 26.00
Blacktrackblack (Repromote/ Permanent)

Lipglass – Limited Edition – CHF 29.00
Fortune Redwarm bright red
Peach Blossom Pink peachy pink

Lipstick – Limited Edition – CHF 31.00
Dynasty Redmatte warm bright red
Peach Blossom Pinkmatte peachy pink

Makeup Bag – Limited Edition – CHF 33.00

Brush Bag – Limited Edition – CHF 59.00
129SE Powder / Blush Brush
263SE Small Angle Brush
246SE Synthetic Fluffy Eye Brush

In Switzerland in stores now exclusively at Jelmoli, M·A·C stores Lucerne and Zurich and online.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © M·A·C Cosmetics

My Look: Wonder Woman Meets Superwoman

You don’t need to be Superwoman to have figured out that patches are trending at the moment along with slogan tees. All super powers are reunited when you also match your scent to your look. Embrace your alter ego with the limited edition Jean Paul Gaultier Classique Eau Fraîche Wonder Woman Eau de Toilette, a floriental fragrance with sugar cane facets.

My look: Superwoman cotton-jersey T-Shirticon by Chloé, patch-appliquéd skinny jeansicon by 3.1 Phillip LimRockstud embellished leather sandals by Valentino, Sac de Jour in green, by Saint Laurentembellished leather bag strap by Fendi, double wrap ring with tiger headsTiger head ring with black enamelwide band in metal, all by Gucci and Ruota Carretto gold-plated tasseled clip earrings, all by Dolce & Gabbana.

Jean Paul Gaultier Classique Eau Fraîche Wonder Woman Eau de Toilette
(from April 1, 2017 for CHF 128.00 / 100ml)

Top Notes: Sugar Cane Juice, Lemon Sorbet
Middle Notes: Orange Blossom, Labdanum Neo
Base Notes: Vanilla, Musk

Bring out your inner hero, ignite your passion for all things daring.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

YSL Volupté Tint-In-Balm

Two formulas; double the benefits. With Yves Saint Laurent‘s new VOLUPTÉ TINT-IN-BALM, sheer glowing color conspires with melt-on-the-mouth nourishing care, leaving a kiss of tint as the clue.

The texture is so buttery soft and its moisturizing effect also lasts a good few hours. It’s a great product for an effortless pout that leaves your lips nicely stained. Available in 12 shades:

N°1 Cream Me Nude, N°2 Tease Me Pink, N°3 Call Me Rose, N°4 Desire Me Pink, N°5 Dare Me Plum and N°6 Touch Me Red

N°7 Flirt Me Coral, N°8 Catch Me Orange, N°9 Tempt Me Pink, N°10 Seduce Me Pink, N°11 Play Me Fuchsia and N°12 Try Me Berry.

In stores now for CHF 48.00 each.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of YSL Beauty
#YSLBeauty #NotInnocent