Sandra‘s Closet

On Wednesday last week, I went with Piaget to the beautiful Château de Malmaison. Located at the gates of Paris, the former residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and the Empress Joséphine, has a large variety of porcelain collections, paintings and furniture on display.

The Château de Malmaison, purchased by Joséphine in 1799, became her permanent home after her divorce in 1809 and she lived there until she died in her bedroom in 1814.

Madame Bonaparte was famous for her interest in the field of botany and created magnificent gardens. Joséphine grew many rare species of plants and cultivated 250 species of roses, her favourite flower. Unfortunately, her heritage is not present today and the fields lie fallow. But this will be changing soon because the rose has a history that Piaget is committed to preserving.

Yves Piaget, scion of the company’s founders, has been celebrating his love of roses since over 30 years. The house’s Rose jewelry collection is a tribute to this dedication. The famous Yves Piaget Rose is named after him which was beautifully put on display at lunch. For Monsieur Piaget, “the rose is a symbol of love, joy and peace.” He explained, “that he was fascinated  by the rose breeder’s mutual challenges, beauty and performance,” and went on about “the two passions in his life: The Piaget company and the rose.”

Yves Piaget with me

Philippe Léopold-Metzger (to the left), CEO of Piaget, announced that Piaget will finance the rebuilding and reconstruction of Château de Malmaison’s rose garden that is meant to be completely finished in 2014. Then, it will present 750 rose bushes from the First to the Second Empire, enhancing the knowledge of the botanical work of the Empress. Amaury Lefébure (to the right), Director of Château de Malmaison, expressed his gratitude to the house of Piaget as this support “is something that very seldom happens in the life of a curator.”

The Swiss luxury watchmaker and jeweler will also be involved in the restoration of some of the original gowns worn by Joséphine. “Another chance to bring back the beauty to the castle.”

After we had enjoyed a great tour around the property and the chateau, we were treated to a beautiful and delicious lunch. Didn’t my sweater match the Yves Piaget Rose décor perfectly?! Stay tuned for a detailed outfit post coming up soon.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, Ad Campaign Photos: Courtesy of Piaget

The most technologically advanced high fashion store in Britain, and probably worldwide, opened its doors on London’s Regent street. It is the biggest Burberry branch in the world with four floors for an overall extraordinary shopping and digitally-advanced brand experience, bringing to life every aspect of Burberry World (burberry.com) for the first time.

“We are so excited to launch Burberry World Live at our new Regent Street flagship, bringing our physical and digital worlds together to create amazing experiences that encompass everything from fashion, to heritage, to music, to the Burberry Foundation.

Burberry Regent Street is one of the most architecturally and culturally significant projects we have undertaken. In renovating this iconic London building we have worked with some of the UK’s finest craftsmen to restore a wealth of historic features, at the same time as pushing the boundaries of digital technology. The result is a space defined by contrasts: at once imposing and intimate, its juxtaposition of craft and innovation is designed to delight, surprise and entertain. It is a reflection of how we approach everything at Burberry – revealing the different layers of the brand’s heritage within a modern context, and forever celebrating design and expert craftsmanship.” Christopher Bailey, Burberry Chief Creative Officer.

The shop is in Westmoreland House, which was built in 1820 for the Prince Regent.

Personally speaking, the most amazing piece of technology is the use of radio-frequency identification technology (RFID) in some of the clothes. When shoppers wearing the pieces approach one of the so-called “magic mirrors”, the mirror transforms into a screen that shows runway footage and exclusive videos.

Enjoy the Burberry Prorsum S/S 2013 show live streamed here on Sandra’s Closet on Monday, September 17th, 2012:

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Burberry

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Tuesday afternoon, I arrived in Paris for the city’s famous and oldest antiques fair, the Biennale des Antiquaires, at the Grand Palais which takes places from September 14 to 23, 2012. I am invited by Piaget and totally excited to be here.

For the 26th edition of the Biennale, designer Karl Lagerfeld has been decorating and creating the visuals for the event, plus a contemporary world within the Grand Palais. The exhibition will take place at the main part as well as in “Le Salon d’Honneur”.

This was my look on the arrival day:
Silk blouse and cardigan by Prada, wide wool pants by Stella McCartney, ankle boots by Fendi, Monogram Aviator bag from Louis Vuitton‘s Pre-fall 2010 collection, statement necklace by Roberto Cavalli and Diorette ring by Dior Haute Joaillerie.
On my nails: Dominatrix by Tom Ford.

On the first evening, we had dinner at Hotel Costes. Stay tuned for many beautiful photos coming up from my stay in Paris.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

THOMAS SABO celebrated its newest fragrance launch in Zurich over the city’s rooftops at the Clouds Restaurant, located on top of Switzerland’s highest building Prime Tower.

German perfumer Geza Schön, the nose behind GLAM’N SOUL, is considered  “one of the most radical perfume designers” these days. He had flown in from Berlin and gave us some insight into his creative process and his visions behind the fragrance. I had a very interesting and fun conversation with him over lunch.

GLAM ‘N SOUL is an elegant, floral-fruity fragrance, dedicated to the self-confident, courageous and independent woman.

Top notes: Bergamot, lychee, pink pepper and violet.
Middle notes: Rose, water lily and magnolia.
Base notes: Vanilla, cedar and white musk.

Eau de Parfum 50 ml (CHF 84.90)

For perfumer Geza Schön, the combination of lychee and rose was so interesting for GLAM’N SOUL as both have similar components. He is not a fan of sweet fragrances, in general sugary notes play a secondary role in his creations. As for him, he likes “to smell the person behind the fragrance” and prefers transparent scents.

REBEL AT HEART is the very first THOMAS SABO men’s fragrance created by perfumer Mark Buxton. This extravagant scent belongs to the woody-aromatic fragrance family, aimed at the charismatic man with an international style and an authentic Rock ‘n’ Roll attitude.

Top notes: Cardamom, bitter orange and cinnamon.
Middle notes: Carnation, bay, caraway seeds and cedar.
Base notes: Tonka bean, vetiver, patchouli, incense and white musk.

Eau de Toilette 50 ml (CHF 74.90)

Both fragrances are available this fall at all Thomas Sabo stores and exclusively at Douglas.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, Stills and Ad Campaign Photos: Courtesy of Thomas Sabo

In case that you are in the city of Zurich tomorrow, September 8, 2012 looking for your Cinderella shoe, you should pay a visit to the newly redecorated Giahi flagship store at Löwenstrasse 8 that is now Europe’s biggest tattoo and piercing studio. A famous guest is waiting there between 1-4 pm for an autograph session: He is none other than Rick Genest, aka Rico, aka Zombie Boy, aka the muse of Mugler’s and Gaga’s Nicola Formichetti.

Rick’s ambition was turning himself into a zombie after he had survived a brain tumor at the age of 16. After countless hours of tattoos, the 28-year-old performance artist has covered today 80% of his body with black ink. The skeleton tattooed Rick Genest walked on Mugler‘s catwalk, starred in the house’s ad campaign and played in Lady Gaga‘s video “Born This Way”.

I am completely fascinated by him. Last February, I saw him in NYC during Fashion Week and couldn’t take my eyes of him. Scary and intriguing at the same time.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Via Giahi, Vogue Hommes Japan, Zimbio, Getty Images and Courtesy of Mugler

Breaking insider news for all Cinderellas in Zurich: Tomorrow, September 8th, 2012, is your chance to get a pair of shoes for free. Sounds too good to be true, I know, but it is no joke!

Vögele Shoes is celebrating the opening of its new flagship store at Sihlstrasse 3 with the special “Nimm Mich” (“Take me with you”) campaign. This Saturday, the famous Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich will be filled with 500 single red pumps. Look for example on benches, fountains to live your Cinderella moment. Take the one shoe. Your “prince” will be waiting at the Vögele Shoes flagship store at Sihlstrasse 3 with the other one for you to take home your pair for free.

Cinderella is proof that a new pair of shoes can change your life, so ladies, hurry up to get your share!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Vögele Shoes

Last Saturday, I flew to Venice for the launch event of Gucci Première, the house’s new fragrance legend. Gucci Parfums revealed its new scent during a private cocktail and dinner held at the Hotel Cipriani in the presence of Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini, Gucci President and CEO Patrizio di Marco, the face of the new fragrance campaign Blake Lively, the film director Nicolas Winding Refn and P&G Prestige Vice President Luigi Feola.

At the cocktail reception from left to right: Me, Michaela Stein (P&G Prestige), Regina Stahl (German Vogue), Gabi Hässig (P&G Prestige) and Tania Messner (Cover)

Blake Lively, star of the new fragrance Gucci Première, made quite an entrance during the event in Venice. The American beauty arrived by boat, welcomed by Nicolas Winding Refn.
Here, a look at the fashion and the fragrance:

Blake Lively wore a Gucci One of a kind sleeveless deep V-neck cocktail dress, fully embroidered with cherry overlapping palettes and raised flower detail around the neckline, burgundy python high heel sandal with metallic spike detail in the back, horsebit bracelet and ring in 18kt pink gold, black corundum and black diamonds and horsebit cocktail ring in 18kt pink gold, black corundum and black diamonds.

Salma Hayek-Pinault wore a Gucci F/W 2012 black chiffon long sleeved cocktail dress with jet beaded bodice and all over embroidered skirt.

Nicolas Winding Refn wore a Gucci midnight blue notch lapel two button Marseille suit with white dress shirt, blue grosgrain tie and black leather lace ups.

Frida Giannini wore a Gucci One of kind silver and gunmetal degrade sleeveless v-neck grey silk crepe cocktail dress with art deco graphic beading and black diamond crystals, and grey suede peep toe sandals.

Karmen Pedaru wore a Gucci F/W 2012 burgundy georgette silk sleeveless blouse, black velvet wrap skirt, and black suede high heeled sandal.

Style icon Blake Lively, who appeared in 2011 on TIME magazine’s TIME 100 list, is the face of the Gucci Première and transports the Hollywood glamour perfectly. Her speech was very lively in the true sense of the word.

François-Henri Pinault, CEO of PPR, framed by Blake Lively to the left and his wife Salma Hayek-Pinault to the right.

President and Chief Executive Officer Gucci Patrizio di Marco and P&G Prestige Vice President Luigi Feola

Before the dinner, during the cocktail reception, the fragrance and campaign were revealed to the editors and guests.

I was sitting right behind Frida Giannini who looked so beautiful in her One of a kind Gucci gown.

Frida Giannini says about the new fragrance: “Gucci Première is womanly, intriguing and as seductive as the perfect couture gown.”

The Gucci Première couture gown worn by Blake Lively in the campaign was on display at the event.

Gucci Première is a sophisticated wood and musk composition. The inspiration derives from the Gucci Première couture collection that debuted at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival (for a previous post, click here please).

During the cocktail, Nicolas Winding Refn presented his short film which was shot at the famous Sheats Goldstein Residence in Los Angeles.

The atmosphere at the beautiful dinner was amazing. Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take pictures during the dinner because Blake Lively’s boyfriend, Ryan Reynolds, who was there also that night, didn’t want any to be taken of him.

Frida Giannini with me

For the outfit post, please click here.

It was such a beautiful event and I felt very honoured to be part of it. Personally speaking, I like Gucci Première a lot. It is in stores now, here are more details:

Top notes: Bergamot and orange blossom
Middle notes: White flowers and musk
Base notes: Leather and wood
Available as Eau de Parfum 30ml, 50ml and 75ml
Body Lotion 200ml, Shower Gel 200ml and Deo Spray 100ml

Stay tuned for an amazing interview I did with Blake Lively! To be posted very soon!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Gucci, © Getty Images and © Sandra Bauknecht

Great news for my Swiss readers, Notting Hill-based label Happycoat will come to Switzerland for an exclusive VIP sale at Kids and the City from September 12-14, 2012.
(For details, please see invitation below).

This is your chance to meet the designer, Tilla Lindig, and to explore her collection of timeless outerwear, from sophisticated capes to chic coats and fitted jackets such as the “Kate” which is named after the Duchess of Cambridge, of course.

Tilla, who was born and raised in Germany, lives today with her husband and three kids in London. She knows exactly what women want: Looking stylish while being comfortable. Her pieces work for all occasions, bringing the kids to school or having lunch in the city. She even has started to do bespoke pieces.

Her fan base is huge. Many celebrities have been spotted in Happycoats, among them Claudia Schiffer, Sophie Ellis Bextor and Kate Moss. Last month, Lindig was voted Best German Brand Abroad 2012 by German Bunte, Elle and Instyle magazines. Congrats, Tilla, well done!

If you would like to have more information and see some of the styles, please click here for a previous post.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Tilla Lindig, Happycoat and © Birgit Klemt

Mila’s wearing “Starlet”, Connor “Luke” and Jessica “Pedal Star”. But who are the actual stars here at the legendary Chateau Marmont? The jeans or the celebrities?

On August 16, the third annual original Closed jeans event returned to Chateau Marmont. Many stylists and stars dropped in to check out the current styles. The “Denim from Germany” has achieved cult status inside the Hollywood community.

Connor Cruise with me last February in New York

Guests included Tom Cruise’s son Connor Cruise, who shopped with enthusiasm for his upcoming European tour as a DJ. His favourite pair of jeans: a “Luke” in vibrant orange.

Mila Kunis bucked the trend in favour of a “Starlet” in grey paired with a blue-black silk blouse.

Jennifer Missoni was enchanting – the entire Denim Bar fell under the spell of this sweet, gorgeous apparition. And she refused to take off her new “Marlow” jeans.

Star stylist Brooke Dulien avidly shopped for jeans for Kristin Bell, Joy Bryant and Dex Shepard, the star cast of “Hit and Run”.

And of course no event would be complete without Closed spokesperson, socialite and author Jessica Joffe. Her all-time favourite: The “Pedal Star”.

One thing is for sure, at Closed, the jeans are the stars of the show.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Closed and © Sandra Bauknecht

Five years ago, Sue Giers, PR Director of Closed, had a spontaneous idea while vacationing in L.A.: Why not introduce Closed to the US ?

Together with a friend, American socialite Stephanie Salay, she considered organizing a “denim bar” in Los Angeles. Giers and Salay soon implemented their idea, put up a clothesline in a suite of the infamous Chateau Marmont, hung-up the different Closed highlight styles, and invited L.A.’s fashion community. Stylists, stars and starlets dropped all to discover the new brand from Germany. Perhaps it was precisely the unusual and the lack of perfection that the Americans liked so much… Or maybe they were impressed by the now more than 30-year history of the brand. The first denim bar was not just a success in L.A., but it also produced a lasting effect. Photos of celebrities wearing Closed have been published continuously since then

Brad Pitt wearing the Clifton Chinos.

Sarah Jessica Parker at the set of Sex and the City in a custom-made pair of Pedal Pusher.

For the second time the simple indoor clothesline was swapped for a showroom at the famous Margaret Maldonado Agency in Melrose Place. There was even a blog with all the “real time” news for those who could not come personally.

This summer for the third time the temporary store will go back to its origins and reside at the famous Chateau Marmont for two days, August 14th and 15th.
The ‘must have’ F/W 2012 Closed pieces will be presented to the L.A. fashion society during those days. These styles were selected from well-known US retailers such as Ron Herman, American Rag, Traffic, Fred Segal Trend, Elyse Walker, and Stacey Todd.

Follow Closed on Twitter or Facebook during the Denim-lounge at Chateau Marmont. The host Sue Giers will keep you updated.

Here is my personal craving from the Closed F/W 2012 collection.
To shop, please click on the highlights product description below.

Denim jacket with leather sleeves

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Closed