Sandra‘s Closet

Last Tuesday, I was invited by CHOPARD to celebrated their Ice Cube luxury jewelry collection. Moving away from the Maison’s iconic hearts, the geometric design of the line marries urban elegance and modernity. With their square facets meticulously crafted like so many reflections off ice, Ice Cube creations embody style, sophistication and glamour. The bangles will look amazing with your other arm candy stack. Just saying …

The evening started with a beautiful champagne reception at private member club Haute, followed by a seated dinner on the top floor where we could discover the Ice Cube collection, including luxury rings in gold, rose gold and white gold, diamond pendants, bracelets and earrings.

The entertainment was amazing that night as we danced and sang to the tunes of the Knights Club band. The energy in the room was as infectious as the sparkling jewelry on display. Thank you, CHOPARD, for having me!

YOU CAN SHOP THE CHOPARD ICE CUBE COLLECTION ONLINE HERE.

LoL, Sandra

The next generation in the CHOPARD family: Caroline Marie Scheufele had flown in from Asia.

With fashion designer Ezgi Cinar.

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / @swiss.pixel for Chopard
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After landing from Istanbul, I went directly to the opening reception of «Hermès in the Making». This outstanding event offers the possibility to meet the artisans behind Hermès’ sustainable craftsmanship. Until November 14, 2024 , you can discover how the French Maison craft objects designed to last and be repaired, to be used and passed down through generations.

Since its founding in 1837, six generations of artisans have safeguarded and nurtured their historic know-how in the Hermès workshops. This heritage is a living, flourishing and constantly evolving treasure trove of artisanal skills. Hermès in the Making brings craftspeople from nearly ten of the house’s métiers to offer a sneak-peek into their expert techniques and exclusive know-how. Their work echoes the heart of Hermès: preserving and developing savoir-faire – expertise which is often linked to a historical tradition or region – a quest for quality, durability and innovation, and respect for the surrounding environments.

With lovely Yvonne Leuthard, Press & Influence Manager Hermès Switzerland 

This 8-day public event features live demonstrations, workshops, interactive activities, and films spread throughout the space. You can customize your visit according to your curiosity and interests.

Lichthalle Maag, Hardbrücke
Zahnradstrasse 22
8005 ZURICH / Switzerland

Until November 14th
(Closed on Monday 11th)
10am – 7pm
Free admission

With my dear friends, Alexandra Kruse, my favorite unicorn and astrologist to the right, and photographer Elena Steness, who captures the best moments as you can see below: 

It was a beautiful evening where we spotted the most amazing bags among the visitors. I can absolutely recommend visiting the exhibition, especially as it has free admission. You just need to book a slot in advance here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Elena Steness
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#HermesInTheMaking

CHANEL and The Boat Race Company Ltd have announced the signing of a long-term partnership with CHANEL as Title Sponsor and official Timekeeping Partner. The 2025 event will become The CHANEL J12 Boat Race. 

The historic race between Oxford and Cambridge Universities was established nearly 200 years ago in 1829. It is the oldest major sporting event in the UK, with the dark and light ‘Blues’ crews of eight rowers pitted against each other on the River Thames every year in the Spring. 

The 2025 edition of The Women’s Boat Race and The Men’s Boat Race will take place on Sunday 13 April along the 4.25 miles of the Championship Course between Putney and Mortlake in London. The Boat Race is attended by over 250,000 spectators on the riverbank, broadcast live on the BBC, and watched by millions globally on television. It has become a treasured highlight in London’s sporting calendar. 

The long-term partnership is an expression of a shared philosophy, one of an uncompromising pursuit of excellence which relies on collective effort to succeed. Boat Race Day encapsulates the raison d’être of Oxford and Cambridge: to develop and showcase exceptional talent, in the same way the House of CHANEL supports outstanding creative expertise. 

CHANEL has had its roots in sport since it was founded in 1910. Inspired by sporting attire predominately worn by men of the time, Gabrielle Chanel was an active sportswoman herself and used materials such as jerseys, and tweeds and created trailblazing designs. These designs gave women the freedom of movement – to ride horses, cycle, and most importantly to choose how they dressed and who they wanted to be. 

CHANEL was the first luxury house to launch its own fragrance in 1921 and its own high jewellery collection in 1932. Decades later in 2000, CHANEL launched the iconic J12 unisex watch – the name inspired by the J Class 12-metre race boats from the early 20th century. 

The iconic J12 watch is produced in the ‘CHANEL Watch Manufacture’ in Switzerland and is powered by self-winding movements from the Swiss Manufacture Kenissi, co-owned by CHANEL. 

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © CHANEL
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Last week, I was invited by Clé de Peau Beauté as their ambassador to «UNLOCK A NEW RADIANCE» at the Riviera-historic landmark, the Carlton Cannes. In the South of France, the Japanese beauty brand revealed their radiance expertise while we indulged in the glamour of the Croisette.

We started the journey after our arrival with a very early flight (thank you for those beauty products that make even the dullest and most tired skin look radiant and plump), with a wonderful lunch at the Carlton Cannes The Beach Club. As it was so extremely hot and humid, we were all very grateful when we changed location and discovered Clé de Peau Beauté’s scientific breakthrough that is infused in the newest emblematic skin care, in the super luxurious penthouse suite.

Clé de Peau Beauté is the number one skincare brand in Japan. Since its launch in 1982, it has been a pioneer in the Haute Cosmetics. Three core values play an important part: to be intelligent, uncompromising and exquisite.

THE SERUM REBORN
It is all about «switching off aging, and switching on youthful renewal.»

Scientists found that the epidermis acts like a third brain. Like the brain, our skin is smart. It has the ability to remove bad stimuli, even before they reach the skin cells. The skin can detect, capture and defend those aggressors with the help of RADIANT LILY, which is thriving in the wild for over 3,500 years in the mountains of Southern France. This flower is extremely attuned to the rhythms of its harsh environment. The high-potency extract derived from it helps to improve skin defense.

Later we were invited to a masterclass with Benjamin Puckey, Clé de Peau Beauté’s Global Color Director and Celebrity Makeup Artist, who revealed to us how to achieve «Radiance at a Glance» in a few steps.

SERUM
Apply around five drops with upward movements on the skin as the first step.

CORRECTING CREAM VEIL
This product is one of Clé de Peau Beauté’s bestselling products. The perfect base. They cannot keep it in stock.

RADIANT FLUID FOUNDATION
It has a SPF 25 and since 2013 Benjamin has it in his kit. He prefers using the foundation before the concealer.

STICK CONCEALER
With the help of its creamy and moisturizing texture, it blurs imperfections. It is a great product to use for flash photography as it absorbs the light.

EYE COLOR SOLO SHADOWS
The texture is so amazing and feels bouncy. Oil meets cream, apply it with your fingers and add on the intensity with different layers. According to Benjamin, doing make-up is about creating 3-dimensional looks also for the eyelids.

MASCARA
Clé de Peau Beauté created this mascara for Asian lashes which are short in general. So you can rest assured to have a wow effect when you use it.

HIGHLIGHTER
This new shade, a peachy browny ambery glow melts into the skin for the perfect summery glow.

LIPS
At the moment the trend is not to use a lip liner and apply the lipstick and tap it with your fingers.

Refreshments were served on the rooftop terrace of the penthouse suite where we could enjoy some sunshine thanks to the right sun protection.

After a short break where we were able to refresh and change into a glamorous black tie outfit to embark on a sunset cruise to celebrate this beautiful day.

Once we were back on land, we were surprised with an amazing candlelight dinner at Château de la Napoule. It felt like being part of  an episode of Bridgerton.

During the gourmet dinner we enjoyed like music. However, the dessert needs a special mentioning. A «chocolate sphere surprise» embellished with the Clé de Peau logo was drenched in warm caramel sauce which melted it to unleash the yummiest chocolate dessert inside.

To finish on a high this radiant evening, I was surprised with La Crème in my hotel room, the brand’s most exquisite skincare icon. Its uncompromising blend of 60 ingredients is working in synergy to amplify the skin’s innate ability to regenerate overnight. Thanks to it, I woke up all refreshed and ready to fly off to my next adventure.

Radiantly yours!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and Courtesy of Clé de Peau Beauté
DISCLOSURE: This post is sponsored! We may also earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise!
@cledepeaubeaute #cpbcollective #cpb #unlockanewradiance

Yesterday, I was invited by Valentino to an enchanting and mysterious evening. The dress code said: «Dark as Le Noir», reminiscent of the Maison’s F/W 2024 collection, for which Pierpaolo Piccioli presented pieces centered around a monochromatic black palette, exploring the depth and versatility of the color black.

The collection was marked by a sense of minimalism and elegance, focusing on silhouettes that ranged from structured to fluid. There was a mix of sharp tailoring and softer, more romantic elements, showcasing a balance between power and delicacy.  Accessories were kept minimal, allowing the garments to speak for themselves.

We started the evening at 6pm at the Valentino pop-up store located on the first floor of the Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich. It was very hot and I have to admit that wearing an all black F/W 2024 outfit was not the most convenient choice but this is what you do for fashion :-).

After lots of shopping, lots of bubbly, and great conversations, we left for the secret location which was the LUX am See Restaurant in Zurich. I hadn’t been there before and was curious to explore something new.

I go to many events but I have to tell you that my Valentino family is truly special. The room is simply buzzing with great energy. The team is amazing and shopping at the Valentino store is always a fun experience.

Stay tuned for the outfit post coming up soon!
 TO SHOP VALENTINO ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Thursday evening, I was invited by SISLEY Paris to a wonderful evening at Widder Hotel in Zurich to discover their newest launches focusing on the eye area.

While enjoying yummy food and champagne, we were invited to explore the new products at dedicated work spaces where we could apply and try everything on our own eye area.

From left to right:
Helena Remmert, Valeska Jansen, my humble self, Christian Stannek and Götz Winter.

The new SUPREMŸA AT NIGHT THE SUPREME ANTI-AGEING EYE CREAM is an exceptional anti-ageing skin care dedicated to youthful-looking eyes. Night after night, the eye contours appears revitalised and lifted, regaining its youthfulness. At the heart of this skin care, the Fundamental Regeneration Complex, a unique combination of powerful key ingredients of natural origin, such as yellow gentian, that precisely acts on the three key stages of the night cycle, when the skin’s regenerative power is at its highest.

Fine and light, its ultra-modern texture melts pleasantly over the eye contour, leaving a sensation of freshness and intense comfort, for an unique sensorial experience. For optimised results, this skin care comes with its exclusive zamac massage accessory. A tailor-made four-step gesture to revitalise, smooth, lift and stimulate the eye contour. Formulated without essential oils, it is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. Its multi-faceted glass jar has been specifically designed to accommodate a refill. Available for CHF 320 (15ml).

The iconic OMBRE ECLAT LIQUIDE, a long-lasting liquid eyeshadow that immediately deposits an ultra-luminous wash of colour while offering a feeling of freshness and lightness, comes in three new shades (07 Antique Gold, 08 Stardust and 09 Plum). Available for CHF 50 each.

Personally speaking, I was really curious about the new DUO LIGNE NOIRE, consisting of the new PHYTO-NOIR MASCARA and the LIGNE NOIRE EYELINER. Achieve intense-looking eyes and amplified lashes, even after makeup removal. Don’t delay – this new makeup duo is sure to take pride of place in your beauty bag.

PHYTO-NOIR MASCARA
Upon application: Lashes are lifted and left 15 times thicker* for instant volume.
After 1 month: Lashes are visibly transformed, leaving them fuller, longer, stronger and thicker, even after makeup removal.

What I love about this mascara is that you can add volume during the day as it doesn’t harden and clog. Available for CHF 65.

LIGNE NOIRE EYELINER
An eyeliner that stands the test thanks to its waterproof formula.
Upon application: Draws a black line that lasts 12 hours once dry without smudging.
Day after day: Its formula is enriched with Vitamin Peptide to leave lashes stronger, denser and longer.

In a single stroke, you can draw a precise, intense and long-lasting black line. Day after day, it strengthens lashes at the root. Available for CHF 65.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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The newly opened Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich got awarded the GaultMillau «Hotel des Jahres 2025 (Hotel of the Year 2025)» today and celebrated this special moment with a festive ceremony. Founded in 1838, this iconic property, the oldest grand hotel in the city, is the latest addition to Mandarin Oriental’s collection of award-winning hotels.

With the Orsini team from left to right: Antonio Guida, Dario Moresco, and Gianmarco D’Alonzo.

Benjamin Halat, Executive Chef, and the culinary masterminds of the hotel’s Orsini restaurant, Antonio Guida and Dario Moresco, were all rewarded for their outstanding gourmet performances.

When food becomes art …

The morning started with lots of culinary treats on the rooftop terrace, followed by the award ceremony in the ballroom. After that we enjoyed a wonderful luncheon in the Brasserie restaurant. Antonia Guida’s signature dish, tan amazing raspberry risotto with sage and herbal cream, was followed by a Breton sole with lobster and zucchini flower.

With General Manager Dominik G. Reiner and his wife Angela.

The dessert was served on the rooftop terrace again. It was a wonderful way to start the week. General Manager Dominik G. Reiner and his team are doing an outstanding job to make guests feel welcomed from the first moment they step foot into this beautiful hotel that is located in prime location on Paradeplatz square.

With Marco-Antonio Diemer, Director of Marketing and Commercial Strategy Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich

With the «King of Chocolate» Ernst Tanner

With my Valentino ladies, Shang Wei Huang and Gianfranca Addis. 

Until November 2024, the Valentino suite will be located on the first floor of the hotel.

Great surprise … one of my favorite illustrators, Kera Till @keratill had flown in from Munich for the event. What a beautiful memory of this day!

Thank you Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich for having me!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Sarah Vonesch Photography
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Last weekend, nearly a million techno music fans came to Zurich for the 31st Street Parade. The world’s largest techno party always takes place on the second Saturday in August. More than 200 DJs took part in the festivities, letting the electronic and techno music fans dance around Zurich’s lake basin. In the evening, the event continues in the city’s clubs. The sun was shining and I enjoyed a fun time at the Baur au Lac hotel, my favorite place to be during the festivities. It is a great way to have a front row seat at the iconic music parade while enjoying the serenity and space of the hotel’s beautiful park.

My look: Tattoo Collection mesh crop top, and matching flared tulle pants, both by Jean Paul Gaultier, silver-tone crystal body chain by Area, Tribute woven leather espadrille wedge sandals, and New Wave 181 LouLou heart shaped sunglasses, both by Saint Laurent, Le Coeur leather shoulder bag, both by Alaïa, and necklace, by Alessandra Rich.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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Last week, before leaving to Johannesburg in the evening, I attended The Championships at Wimbledon for the first time as guest of Ralph Lauren x Net-à-Porter.

At Centre Court, British heritage takes a global stage – from the freshly cut grass, strawberries and cream, and morning garden parties to the polished spectator style. As the Official Outfitter of The Championships at Wimbledon since 2006, Ralph Lauren has proudly celebrated the tournament’s rich traditions in sportsmanship and elegance.  The American fashion house is providing uniforms for on-court officials as well as stylish, yet functional, pieces that embody the prestigious and sophisticated atmosphere of the tournament.

I was invited to the Ralph Lauren suite that is elegantly furnished and beautifully decorated. Here I enjoyed lunch and drinks before heading to the game.

Here’s a glimpse into the unique fashion culture of Wimbledon:

Traditional Dress Code
Players: Wimbledon is known for its strict all-white dress code for players, which dates back to the 1800s. At the time in Victorian England, sweat stains were seen as improper and unacceptable, and white would mask the stains the best out of every colored clothing. Once the rule was drawn up, Wimbledon has decided to keep the all-white dress code a tradition throughout the years, meaning that any visible clothing, including undergarments, must be white or almost white.
Spectators: While there’s no official dress code for spectators, the event often attracts a chic, garden-party look with summer dresses, blazers, and hats being common choices.

Celebrities and Royalty
Celebrity Sightings: The event attracts celebrities from various fields, including actors, musicians, and other sports stars, often dressed in stylish, sophisticated outfits.
Royalty: Members of the British royal family, especially Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, was frequently seen at Wimbledon before her illness. Kate is known for her impeccable fashion sense, often opting for elegant dresses that respect the tournament’s refined atmosphere. My seat was next to the royal box where I spotted her parents front row.

Experience and Atmosphere
Strawberries and Cream: A quintessential Wimbledon experience includes enjoying strawberries and cream, served in the grounds, adding to the genteel, summery feel of the event.
Pimm’s and Champagne: These are popular beverages at Wimbledon, contributing to the festive and high-society atmosphere.
The Grounds: The carefully manicured lawns and flower arrangements provide a beautiful backdrop, enhancing the overall experience and making it a picturesque setting for both tennis and fashion enthusiasts.

Iconic Fashion Moments
Roger Federer and Serena Williams: Known for their stylish takes on the all-white rule, Federer’s sleek Nike outfits and Williams’ elegant and sometimes bold tennis dresses have left a mark on Wimbledon’s fashion history.
Anna Wintour: The US Vogue editor-in-chief is a regular at Wimbledon, often seen in the stands wearing stylish summer attire that combines elegance with comfort.

Wimbledon seamlessly blends the worlds of sport and fashion, making it a unique and stylish experience for both players and spectators. The tournament is taking place from July 1-14, 2024.

A big thank you to Iona Miller and her team at Net-à-Porter for this amazing day in Wimbledon!

The Ralph Lauren style tradition pays tribute to the timeless sophistication of tennis.
YOU CAN SHOP THE POLO RALPH LAUREN WIMBLEDON COLLECTION HERE.

LoL, Sandra

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

Last week, I attended the V&A Summer Party that celebrated the opening of the «Naomi: In Fashion» exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The exhibition is the first major museum show dedicated to a supermodel, honoring Naomi Campbell’s 40-year career in fashion.

The party drew a star-studded crowd, including fashion designers, celebrities, and industry insiders. Elizabeth Hurley, Tessa Thompson, Letitia Wright, Rina Lipa and more joined Campbell on the event’s red carpet.

«[It feels] overwhelming, but I just wanted everyone to get to know that side of me that they might not have known,» said Campbell.

She wore a custom dress from Boss, which sponsored her exhibition and the event. Top stylist Law Roach worked with the model on the design of the dress, which was accessorized with two diamond Bulgari snake necklaces.

The exhibition, titled «Naomi: In Fashion» spans four decades of her influential career and will run from June 22, 2024, to April 6, 2025.
Enjoy the impressions of the night!

LoL, Sandra

With interior designer Pernilla Bennet of House of Bennet

The performance of Boy George was really outstanding.

Wearing Christopher John Rogers at the opening party.

With Naomi’s mum Valerie Morris Campbell

With Imran Amed of Business of Fashion

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht 
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