Sandra‘s Closet

We are only a few days in the new year and we have already a new It-bag or at least a bag the fashion world talks about. Walmart launched an affordable handbag on their website  that mimics the style of the iconic Hermès Birkin, with prices ranging from $78 to $102. Dubbed the «Walmart Wirkin» by social media users, the affordable alternative exploded in popularity on TikTok, with influencers showcasing the bags and offering mixed reviews.

«The Walmart Birkin bag is called a Wirkin and it’s for the Wirkin class,» a TikTok user wrote.

Screen shot from the Walmart website

Becoming a hit for its design and quality at a fraction of the luxury bag’s price, the Wirkin has also sparked debates about the ethics of producing and buying luxury «dupes.»  A dupe is a product that imitate the design of luxury items without being counterfeit as they don’t show a logo. Supporters argue that such items democratize fashion by making high-end styles accessible to a broader audience, while critics contend that they may undermine the value of original designs and contribute to issues related to fast fashion. 

Birkin 35 in orange Togo leather by Hermès

Personally speaking, such concerns are overblown; the Wirkin isn’t the first, and almost certainly not the last, cheap clone of a designer bag to hit the market. However the degree to which the conversation took off shows the growing sentiment among shoppers, who are frustrated with big luxury.

Birkin 30 in gold Epsom leather by Hermès

For luxury aficionados, owning a Hermès Birkin is a mark of exclusivity and wealth. These bags, named after actress and singer Jane Birkin, are not readily available in Hermès stores. Shoppers often face months-long waitlists, even after securing a coveted spot for purchase. However the quality of a Birkin bag is outstanding and that is something a dupe can never deliver. Each Hermès Birkin bag is hand-sewn by a single artisan, and is then buffed, painted, and polished, taking up to 40 hours to make. Artisans purportedly train for five years before they are allowed to make their first Birkin bag. The stitch on which the brand’s reputation is based — the saddle — cannot be replicated by a machine, as it requires two needles simultaneously passing through the same seam. I wrote my first blog post ever about it. This is how Sandra’s Closet started in November 2009 (see collage below).

Truth is … if you walk into a Hermès store for the first time, no amount of money will be enough to get you the Birkin bag of your dreams. That’s because each store reserves the bags for a limited number of customers, and typically only those who’ve made enough repeat purchases. In October 2024, three U.S. consumers sued the French luxury house to persuade the judge that the company is forcing buyers to spend thousands of dollars on other products before they can purchase one of its famed Birkin bags.

Two super special Birkin editions: Faubourg Birkin 20 in So Black matte alligator with black hardware and Himalaya Niloticus crocodile Birkin bag, both by Hermès.

The question I am asking is «what is luxury». For me, it is walking into a shop, getting something that I wished for, and being treated like a princess during this process, especially if I spend these astronomical amounts of money. Unfortunately, those times are over. If the sales associate doesn’t know you, you might feel rejected and won’t be treated well. Then, the other problem is, that these bags achieve such high prices on the secondary market, that they become desired objects for robbers, something that I had to unfortunately experience myself. So the question is … is it really luxury if I have to worry about it instead of indulging into it?!

Maybe one day the «Wirkin» will too be looked at as a piece of art, albeit a print vs an original. Safe to carry around with less risk to be stolen.

LoL, Sandra

Shiny Rose Schéhérazade Porosus Crocodile 25 Birkin bag by Hermès

Photos (1-3): Courtesy of Walmart
All other photos of the Hermès Birkin bags: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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Time to celebrate for Victoria Beckham fans who can rejoice because the British pop star-turned-fashion designer is bringing her eponymous brand’s luxury style to affordable-favourite Mango. Just in time for the Spanish retailer’s 40th anniversary, the Mango x Victoria Beckham capsule collection drops on April 23.

The collection is a perfect blend of classic British luxury, Victoria Beckham’s immaculate style, and Mango’s contemporary design and features tailoring with a twist, feminine dresses, and versatile knitwear. The campaign images released alongside the announcement showed models in a white dress with a plunging neckline above and a white pantsuit.

Mango’s collaboration with Victoria Beckham is part of the new Strategic Plan 2024-26, which aims to generate total turnover of more than 4 billion euros by 2026 through a differentiated value proposition, strong expansion drive, and improving sales in existing stores and online channels, as presented by the company last March.

In Zurich, the company recently reopened its store in Bahnhofstrasse under the Mediterranean-inspired New Med concept, which aims to reflect the spirit and freshness of the brand. Mango closed 2023 with 93 points of sale in Switzerland, as well as an online presence via its own online channel and other marketplace.

TO SHOP MANGO x VICTORIA BECKHAM, CLICK HERE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Mango
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Since the groundbreaking partnership between Karl Lagerfeld and fashion giant H&M in 2004 for a designer collaboration, it became clear to couturiers that bringing high fashion to the everyday woman was well within arms reach. H&M unveils yet another blockbuster collaboration. This time, it’s Rabanne’s time to shine. The radiant new designer collaboration flirts with fantasy, dances through decades and dreams about the future. Bringing together the carefree exuberance of the 1970s, the optimistic futurism of Rabanne and a touch of retro-inflected romance, the collection channels a modern vision of approachable opulence, joy and confidence.

Rabanne has pushed provocative, unexpected style onto the fashion scene since it was founded by Mr. Paco Rabanne in 1966. Julien Dossena, the house’s creative director, continues to uphold the brand’s reputation for challenging the status quo. With artisanal precision and a dynamic approach, Dossena has reimagined Rabanne for a new generation while continuing to take inspiration from its iconoclastic past. With the Rabanne x H&M collaboration he is opening up the brand, making it more accessible without compromising quality or creativity.

Rabanne fans will get plenty of the house’s signature metallic opulence, but the collection looks in new directions as well. There’s a floor-length tiered chiffon gown bedazzled with crystals, a crisp poplin button-up with broderie anglaise detailing and oversized pleated sleeves, a rich floral jacquard cutout dress, structured wool outerwear, gracefully draped jersey knit separates and lots of leopard print — truly something for everyone to wear to the party.

The collection also features an exclusive H&M HOME selection, available in selected markets, that delivers a sleek yet playful version of laid-back luxury. This is the first time Rabanne has designed for the home, and it represents the most extensive interiors offering ever introduced in an H&M designer collaboration. It includes accent furniture, a gleaming disc curtain, angled vases, playing cards and dice, a water bottle and more — all given Rabanne’s signature sheen.

Rabanne H&M sparkles to its full potential when worn: glittering paillettes catch the light with every step, mirrored discs clink gently against one another, delicate chain mail glides with the body like metallic silk. Each garment is an experience, an exploration of materials, textures and motion — made to dance, laugh and live in.

Rabanne x H&M launches globally in selected stores and on hm.com on 9 November 9, 2023. Rabanne x H&M HOME will be available at selected H&M HOME stores and on hm.com in selected markets from November 9, 2023.

Putting an ‘x’ between two names has simply become a part of the ever-changing news cycle within the fashion industry. I find the endless rollouts of designer collaborations a little tiring. What about you?

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © H&M
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Today, I am writing to share some exciting news about YVY, the Swiss fashion brand that has been making waves in the fashion industry for its innovative designs that cross the boundaries between object, accessory, and clothing.

Yvonne Reichmuth founder and creative director of YVY.

The brand’s biggest ARCHIVE SALE will take place from the 14th to the 16th of April at their studio and online from the 17th to the 20th. The studio’s address is Quellenstrasse 27 in Zurich with opening hours on Friday 14th of April from 10am to 8pm and during the weekend from 11am to 5pm.

The cuban-born American-raised superstar Camila Cabello wore the YVY Spine Harness for her look on The Voice USA recently.

YVY has gained a lot of attention and love from celebrities worldwide. The ARCHIVE SALE features some of the iconic pieces worn by Lady Gaga, Ciara, and Irina Shayk, making it an exciting chance for fans to own a piece of fashion history! Moreover, YVY will have samples and prototypes of some of their bestsellers.

Matthias Breschan, CEO of Longines, Yvonne Reichmuth and Kate Winslet.

Last year, Swiss watchmaking brand Longines entrusted YVY with a new design for the famous rectangular watch of Longine’s DolceVita collection, resulting in four sophisticated timepieces that were revealed in Paris in the presence of Kate Winslet.

Madonna in 2020 in a one-of-a-kind top from YVY’s BRUT collection, handmade in the Zurich atelier with Italian lambskin and delicate Swarovski crystals. 

The aim for YVY’s ARCHIVE SALE is to provide an unparalleled opportunity for the Swiss audience to own exclusive pieces from the collection Swiss made. YVY believes that each piece carries a unique story, and is thrilled to share it with their valued customers.

Lday Gaga herself starred in her Haus Laboratories’s makeup line’s campaign in a top by YVY to underline the empowering effect of a bold eyeliner.

Take advantage of this opportunity to get your dream leather look and follow YVY on Instagram @yvyleather for a first look at the archive pieces. Get exclusive access to iconic pieces worn by celebrities for fashion magazines and press events, as well as one-of-a-kind designs and samples from some of their must-haves at up to 80% off.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © YVY
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Introducing an iconic new designer collaboration … Mugler is teaming up with H&M to celebrate an ode to curves and lines of the body, with each piece possessing the incomparable Mugler appeal. Consisting of sheer details, reworked denim and sharp tailoring, and the usual suspects of sensual bodysuits and cut-outs, the collaboration will not skimp on the brand’s extravagance and its inclusive and boundary-pushing aesthetic. Having broken ground just before the house’s founder, Manfred Thierry Mugler, passed away in January 2022, the project was given an especially significant purpose in realising and honouring his vision.

Casey Cadwallader, who has lead the brand as creative director since 2018, has designed a dramatic and empowering collection that celebrates freedom, self-expression and diversity, featuring a mix of stunning new pieces and signature Mugler looks, including several archive remakes.

Amaarae, Shygirl, Eartheater and Arca worked with producer Ashland Mines to create an exclusive campaign anthem — a reimagined version of Stardust’s 1998 hit ‘Music Sounds Better with You’. The star-studded music video, featuring a brilliant cast of icons, artists and friends of the brand, was directed by Torso and styled by Haley Wollens.

Ann-Sofie Johansson and Casey Cadwallader

«We are proud to celebrate the legacy of Manfred Thierry Mugler with this collection,» says Ann-Sofie Johansson, creative advisor at H&M. «We were all honoured to get to know Manfred, and it feels very special that he was involved at the initial stages together with Casey and the house of Mugler. Casey has done such an incredible job at paying homage to history, and to the archive, while making the collection totally contemporary. Under him, Mugler has become one of the most innovative and exciting houses on today’s fashion landscape.»

Mugler H&M will give fashion lovers a chance to own a piece of the brand’s legendary history and become a part of its dynamic present.

«I was determined that this collection be true Mugler,» Casey Cadwallader emphasized. «The details and quality of every piece had to be exactly as we do them, and I wanted to showcase the energy of Mugler, which has always been about clothes that allow for personal liberation. You can be so many different versions of yourself in Mugler.»

Save the date: Mugler H&M launches globally at selected stores and hm.com on May 11, 2023 (local release dates may vary).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © H&M
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Yesterday, I drove to Outletcity Metzingen to attend the VIP Luxury Night at Europe’s largest outlet center. My avid readers might remember when I went there the first time with German Vogue in 2018 or to attend the opening of the Boss flagship outlet store in 2019.

This time, I was invited by Outlicity Metzingen together with Taglierè to the big opening event of the new champagne bar Bollicine in the heart of the luxury area. At 4:30 p.m. the red carpet was rolled out and welcomed prominent special guests Michelle Hunziker and Frauke Ludowig among many others.

Two Swiss aquarius women: Michelle Hunziker with me

The new bar’s menu offers from the Italian breakfast to an all-day meal and snack menu. There is also a large selection of coffee specialties and cold drinks as well as an exquisite selection of champagne and champagne cocktails. «Bollicine» – which means sparkling bubbles in German – leaves nothing to be desired.

Besides a special show act and a tombola, the luxury shops were also open until 10pm. Needless to say, I took the opportunity to spend my shopping voucher to the fullest. At Bottega Veneta for example, certain pieces were marked down 90%. So amazing!

I can absolutely recommend visiting Outletcity Metzingen. It is a shopping haven with many luxury brands, such as Gucci, Prada, Versace and many more, having huge flagship stores filled with collections from previous seasons at great prices. And who doesn’t like a good deal?!

LoL, Sandra

With German entertainer Frauke Ludowig

Together with Petra Dieners, Leonie Hanne, Frauke Ludowig, and Violeta Prtenjaca.

Outfit post coming up soon…

Swiss media power … with Stefan Berger (Faces)

Talented twins: Tarkan and Luka Cidic

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, Sage Press, Getty Images for Outletcity Metzingen / VIP Luxury Night
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In the mood for shopping? I have an amazing offer for you from MATCHESFASHION. From September 28, 2022 from 8am BST until October 5, 2022 at 10am BST, you will get 15% off selected full-price items with the promo code: 15OFFER. Minimum spend is £200 / €200 / $250 USD. Only valid on selected full-price items included within dedicated listings below:

SHOP WOMENSWEAR
SHOP MENSWEAR

Wether you are looking for a great outfit for the next holiday season, a coat to cherish forever or a fun denim piece, you will find something. Here are some of my favorites:

Camille crystal-bow velvet jumpsuit by Saloni
Cat-eye tortoiseshell-acetate sunglasses by Bottega Veneta
Madame coat by Max Mara
Anise 95 crystal-embellished leather sandals by Jimmy Choo
Puff-sleeve distressed denim mini dress by Alessandra Rich
L’Amour embroidered book clutch bag by Olympia Le Tan

Happy Shopping!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Matchesfashion / © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

Iris Apfel doesn’t want you to dress like she does. At 100, she’s still embracing uniqueness, wearing what makes her happy and encouraging everyone else to do the same.

«I think part of the problem with the way people dress nowadays is that it’s too generic,» says Iris. «Everyone looks the same, they wear the same things. They wear what’s in fashion, what’s trendy, what they’re being told to wear. That’s terribly dull. I want to see personality.»

And what’s the best way to reveal your personal style, à la Iris? Be curious, have fun, explore yourself. Wear clothes because you love them, pick out accessories because they make you smile, slip on the shoes that give you joy. Your style is an ever-evolving expression of your truest self, and each piece you own holds the magic of your experiences, adventures and memories.

«It’s not about what or who you wear but how you feel when wearing something,» confirms Iris. «Style is about self-expression and, above all, attitude.»

The Iris Apfel x H&M collection enthusiastically embraces this joyful and individual approach to style. There’s delightful print clashing, fabulously baroque aesthetics and colour, colour and more colour. The pieces are playful, eclectic and vibrant, and everything is a little bit over the top — in the best possible way.

Channel Iris in a vivid aquamarine suit with delicate embroidery and pearl peas; a glossy acid green and purple jacquard coat with an oversized feather pattern; a flouncy tiered skirt and blouse set in a stunning iris flower print; or an eye-catchingly voluminous violet jacket made from theatrical tulle swirls. There are also relaxed lounge sets, chic kaftans, fringed trousers, ruffled shirts, and even a swimsuit.

The accessories are equally glamorous and extravagant, just the way Iris likes them. Load up on chunky orange, black and green chains; oversized detachable pendants that become bold brooches; satiny slippers adorned with bejewelled scarab beetles and sparkling frogs; vivid statement cuffs; and stylishly bulky rings depicting Iris’s iconic face.

Dip into the collection to create a dynamic, positive and empowering look that proudly showcases your true style. Congratulations, you’ve found your inner Iris.

The Iris Apfel x H&M collection is available on hm.com and in selected stores worldwide from 31 March 2022. Local vairations may occur.

I love Iris! She is such an inspiration…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © H&M

«Style is about self-expression and, above all, attitude.»

She is my muse, my idol – Iris Apfel is a true inspirational fashion icon and she just turned 100. Reason enough for H&M to collaborate with the birthday girl, who belongs to the world’s 50 best-dressed women. What better way to make a memorable celebration than creating a collection filled with eclectic garments and loud accessories?!

The upcoming collection, which will hit the shelves in the beginning of 2022, got a head start this week as the Swedish fashion giant celebrated and hosted her 100th birthday during New York Fashion Week 2021, cementing her status as a long-time fashion muse.

Imagine that you enter a room filled with eternal flair and a century’s worth of moments: you hear laughter, and chandeliers glitter; you see magnificent shapes and colors as if lifted from an artist’s palette — the smell of summer flowers and citrus fruits gives you goose bumps. That’s how I believe it feels entering Iris Apfel’s wardrobe.

A little preview of the upcoming Iris Apfel x H&M collection.

Iris was born in 1921 in the concrete jungle of New York. She studied art and fashion at prominent universities in the US, and her career is as inspirational as her style. She is a self-made businesswoman, style icon, fashion designer, and interior decorator. She has always succeeded on her different career paths with her oh-so-famous «why be boring?» attitude. If you happen to visit the Big Apple, you will quickly recognize «the Big Apfel.» Her esthetic of bright clothing, layers and layers of fun accessories, and thick, round, oversized glasses are just Iris dressing for herself and herself only. This has inspired people worldwide to create and celebrate their own style that they feel good in.

«Style is not about spending a lot of money. It’s not about what or who you wear, but how you feel when wearing something. Style is about self-expression and, above all, attitude,» says Iris Apfel.

Iris represents the notion that style and inspiration can come from anywhere and anyone, regardless of the price. «I think that H&M is a fabulous outfit worldwide and absolute pioneers in their field — which I love! I love doing high style at affordable prices, which H&M has mastered!» says Iris.

«With this collaboration, we are celebrating a unique and extraordinary woman and her creative and audacious style,» says Ann-Sofie Johansson, creative advisor at H&M. «She shows that style is ageless and keeps encouraging people to show who they are with fashion — and to have fun at the same time.»

The Iris Apfel x H&M collection will include an assortment of clothing and accessories created with Iris’ bold sense of style, designed for all ages and sizes.

«The collection is playful, opulent and rich with vibrant colors, vivid prints and opulent fabric choices. The look is indulgent with a more-is-more attitude and crowned by over-the-top jewelry, which is very much a signum for Iris,» says an excited Ann-Sofie Johansson.

The collection launches at the beginning of 2022.
I hope that you will enjoy all of my favorite Iris Apfel quotes…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © H&M / Iris Apfel

In January, I wrote about the huge impact the Netflix series Bridgerton has on fashion (for the previous outfit post, click here). All of a sudden, corsets, rushed floral dresses, empire lines are all back in the game. The series’ costume with all of their fanciful and over-the-top looks have given us a sweet and much-needed outfit inspiration.

Here is the new H&M collaboration that celebrates those kind of looks. In a whimsical collection made from more sustainable materials, LA-based Brock Collection brings their signature laid-back charm to thoughtfully crafted romantic silhouettes.

Think country florals, corset tops and dreamy ruffles, effortlessly paired with classic denim for a modern touch. All made from more sustainable materials like organic linen, organic cotton, recycled cotton, recycled polyester and Tencel™ Lyocell.

«Brock Collection has always been about connecting the threads between uptown polish paired with a down-to-earth ease, which we are so happy to bring to a new audience. Each piece in the collection is special and carries a certain romantic charm, but is totally effortless,» says Laura Vassar and Kristopher Brock, Designers and Co-Founders of Brock Collection. The pair met in New York City while attending Parsons School of Design and after founding the brand in 2014, relocated to Los Angeles. Since then their emphasis on craft and cut and love of vintage references has gained a cult following.

«We’re thrilled to be collaborating with Brock Collection, who are well-known for their luxe craftsmanship, impeccable fits and structures, and have quite the celebrity following. But there’s also beauty in the fact that their designs always feel down-to-earth, thoughtful and easy to wear — I believe that’s the key to their success. We want to celebrate romance and make it accessible to the many. By adding more sustainable materials, it creates for a collaboration I hope our customers around the world will fall in love with,» says Maria Östblom, Head of Design at H&M.

Brock Collection x H&M is available now in Europe in selected stores and online. It will launch in the US and Canada on June 24, 2021.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Brock Collection / H&M, Netflix
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