Sandra‘s Closet

Victoire de Castellane’s creations continue the sparkling story started by Christian Dior himself: a story of femininity, elegance and refinement, adorned with delicately rendered boldness.

«Yes… A word whispered in your ear, a muffled cry that lies upon your neck… The Oui collection reveals a selfish pleasure, a precious gift or a commitment to life.»
Victoire de Castellane

Oui earrings in yellow gold with diamonds, € 1500

Now, the jewelry designer expanded the Dior «oui» collection, which means «yes» in English, featurings rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces that spell out romantic French phrases.

Oui double ring in yellow gold with diamonds, € 1600

There’s for example a pink gold double ring that says «je t’aime» (I love you), dotted with diamonds; a pair of yellow gold earrings that feature the word «toi» (you) on one side, «moi» (me) on the other; and a diamond-embellished «oui» bracelet and necklace, which come in 18k gold in pink gold.

Oui earrings in yellow gold with diamonds, € 1500

Oui double ring in yellow gold with diamonds, € 1600

And don’t be shy. The cursive font used in the collection also lets you wear several pieces together,  make a statement by stringing together different rings, one on each finger.

Oui bracelet in pink gold with diamond, € 1000

Oui collier in pink gold with diamond, € 1200

I truly hope that my better half reads my blog 🙂 …

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Dior

Prada is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a special selection of gold and white gold fine jewellery for both men and women.
In an exquisite, highly original style, precious materials are handcrafted in sophisticated designs that reinvent Prada iconic symbols and the themes of the new collections.

Vibrant hearts, baroque pearls, rock guitars, romantic roses, playful robots but also keys, rabbits, bananas, and the brand’s triangular logo – in gold and diamonds – relive Prada’s history through
contemporary and timeless earrings, bracelets, pendants and necklaces with an unmistakable hint of irony.

Prada’s fine jewellery is made using 18-carat gold and diamonds from suppliers with Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) certification.
The RJC is a non-profit organisation, founded in 2015 to promote responsible practices from an ethical, social and environmental point of view and respect for human rights in the handling of metals and precious stones, from their extraction right through to their sale.

Now on sale at selected Prada boutiques worldwide as well as on prada.com, exclusively for USA, Japan and UAE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Prada

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

Today I would like to show you the most exceptional jewelry boxes for the connoisseur in your life this Christmas. If you like to collect jewelry, it is also important where you keep it. Security aside, beloved treasures deserve a home as beautiful as they are… and below are some very sophisticated choices to choose from!

LoL, Sandra

Facettes Jewelry Box by Hermès

Beauvais velvet jewellery box by Aerin

Grosvenor leather jewelry box by Smythson

Flora print jewelry box by Gucci

Studded leather-trimmed striped jacquard jewelry box by Fendi

Monogram Canvas Jewelry Box by Louis Vuitton

Mara printed croc-effect leather jewelry box by Smythson

Botanical Heirloom Jewelry Box by Jenny McCormack (comes with the jewelry)

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands

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

Christmas is only 16 days away. If you like to shop before the frightful Christmas rush, you’re in luck. Hermès just released its perfect holiday season collection and those gift ideas are so beautiful that you should add them to your shopping list now.

LoL, Sandra

Birkin Sellier Faubourg
20cm bag in Madame calfskin, matte crocodile, Swift calfskin, Sombrero calfskin and Epsom calfskin. LOVE THIS!

Winged Pump in suede goatskin

Bracelet in Madame calfskin and gold metal

Hippomobile Allumettes 
Rectangular Tray in porcelain, design by Gianpaolo Pagni

Hermès Vivace Saddle in calfskin

Vinyl Boombox in Swift calfskin and streaming canvas

Serpentins Large Oval Dish in porcelain, design by Gianpaolo Pagni

Cityback Chimères Dragon Backpack in tufts Togo calfskin

Cap in glazed calfskin and Gard-robe pop printed silk twill, design by Gianpaolo Pagni

Niloticus Necklace in rose gold, black  spinels and diamonds

High Flyer Scarf 
140 cm in cashmere and silk, design by Dimitri Rybaltchenko

Photos: © Hermès

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

Incredible women deserve a gift like no other, and they don’t come any more exclusive or special than this. For holiday 2019, NET-A-PORTER offers an edit of Fantasy Gifts including everything from a bespoke shoe experience in Florence with Aquazzura’s Edgardo Osorio, to a luxurious Priesteregg ski retreat and Bogner wardrobe for schussing on the slopes. These limited-edition packages are designed to treat the receiver to once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

The 6 Fantasy Gifts will be available from October 24, and can be purchased through their dedicated Personal Shoppers (If you are an EIP, e-mail your personal shopper now to secure your selection …). Here are all the details for your beforehand (Click on the highlighted text please, to be transferred directly.):

The Ultimate Spa Weekend in Budapest with Omorovicza

• NET-A-PORTER’s beauty team has partnered with Omorovicza to create the ultimate spa experience for two people.
• Including two nights at the stunning Four Seasons Gresham Palace in a River View King Room, with breakfast included and a private driver for the duration of the stay.
• Full body and face treatments, and a bespoke skincare consultation at the Omorovicza Spa plus an additional treatment at the hotel spa
• Guests will receive the entire Omorovicza range delivered to their home, including samples of new products yet to be released.
• Not forgetting to recharge the mind as well as the body, this experience also includes a private boat trip along the Danube, a private sunrise or moonlight visit to the Rudas Thermal Baths and dinner with Omorovicza founders Stephen and Margaret de Heinrich.
• In addition to two box tickets to the Opera and cocktails at private members house in District 6, Brody Studios.
• Limited edition: 3 available globally

The Ultimate Ski Weekend with Bogner

• The NET-A-PORTER team has planned the ultimate ski retreat in an exclusive partnership with German athluxury brand Bogner.
• Available from Friday 10th to Sunday 12th January 2020 and offered with shuttle service from the airport, this trip for two includes two nights at the private Willy Bogner chalet in Priesteregg, which boasts spectacular panoramic views over the valley and surrounding mountains.
• Including two-day ski passes for the Saalbach Hunterglemm Leogang and Bogner ski outfits (including jacket, pants and a first layer) and equipment (including skis, ski sticks, goggles and helmet).
• This trip also includes the ultimate alpine clubbing experience and there’s the option of a helicopter flight over the four-piste network.
• Limited edition: 1 available globally

Jessica McCormack Botanical Heirloom Jewelry Box

• London-based fine jewelry designer Jessica McCormack is offering this exquisite one-of-a-kind jewelry box, inspired by the whimsical tales of Alice in Wonderland and The Secret Garden
• Featuring two velvet-lined trays sectioned into compartments and embroidered with flora and fauna – every bead, thread, and metallic yarn has been hand-stitched by artisans at Hand & Lock, embroiderers to the Royal Family and purveyors of the art since 1767.
• Turning the tasseled key in the lock of the chest reveals a carefully curated collection of 17 of the brands best-selling styles, including six rings, four pairs of earrings, four necklaces, and a single 3.01-carat diamond charm, which you can use to adorn any chain.
• You’ll also have a chance to visit the brand’s Carlos Place townhouse and select the final personalized touches with Jessica herself.
• Limited edition: 1 available globally

The Bespoke Shoe Experience with Aquazzura

• The ultimate gift for shoe lovers, this unique NET-A-PORTER experience provides the chance to visit the home of Aquazzura in Florence and the private studio of founder and designer Edgardo Osorio, located within the historical Palazzo Corsini.
• Accommodation for one is included at the Four Seasons, where you’ll receive flowers, a small gift and a personal handwritten note from Edgardo, as well as a special guide to his favorite places in the city.
• You will have the chance to see his design and creative process first-hand as he creates a customized shoe exclusively for you, and you will receive a signed sketch after the studio visit.
• Edgardo will also host an intimate private luncheon at his home in the Palazzo. Car transfers in the city are also included.
• Limited edition: 3 available globally

The Ultimate Net-à-Porter Party Wardrobe

• Create your dream party closet with this unique NET-A-PORTER experience.
• With the help of a dedicated personal shopper, you’ll enjoy access to What’s New first, exclusive previews and a chance to pre-order the pieces you love.
• Following a personal consultation, our team will work with you on a wardrobe detox to overhaul your collection and make room for key investment items – leaving you to enjoy a wardrobe where everything is meticulously organized and arranged.
• With a personal edit of the season’s most sought-after pieces, you’ll have all that you need for every event, function and dinner in your schedule.
• Limited edition: 3 available globally

The Shoe of the Month Subscription

• Our Fantasy Gifts make the most special and stylish experiences you could ever wish for into a reality.
• This subscription allows you to transform your wardrobe from the feet up with a new pair of beautiful shoes every month – from the ultimate statement shoe to the perfect pump.
• You’ll be assigned your own dedicated personal shopper from NET-A-PORTER’s fashion team, who’ll give you styling advice, tell you exactly what’s trending and grant you access to products before anyone else, along with the power to pre-order.
• Limited edition: 3 available globally

Aren’t all those gifts just amazing? Which one is your favorite! I am curious to hear…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © NET-À-PORTER 

There are advent calendars and then there those supersized, super-luxe advent calendars, full of the best in makeup, hair and skincare or even filled with surprises for intimate pleasures. It’s what self-gifting was made for…

Consider them the ultimate, carefully curated «best of» – and everything you need to take you through the holiday season. Click on the highlighted description to find out more… I personally love the small sized products as they are great for travelling.

LoL, Sandra

The Harrods Beauty Advent Calendar by Harrods
Housed in a beautiful navy blue coffret which will serve as a keepsake for years to come, it’s packed to the rafters with twenty five miniature and full size favourites from the famous Harrods Beauty Halls.

25 Days of Beauty Advent Calendar by Net-à-Porter Beauty
Counting down 25 days, its drawers are packed with a slew of goodies picked especially by Net-à-Porter’s team of Beauty Buyers.

Glittering Galaxy of Makeup Magic Advent Calendar by Charlotte Tilbury
 Filled with hero products to get you through the party season and beyond.

10 Day Balmain Advent Calendar by Balmain Hair Couture
Balmain Paris Hair Couture brings back the joy of opening advent calendars with this grown-up version featuring 10 haircare products.

 12 Days of Red Carpet Advent Calendar by Rodial
This round-up of miniatures will ensure your skin is looking refreshed and radiant in time for the big day.

Beauty Advent Calendar by Acqua di Parma
Featuring a miniature version of the signature scent Colonia, it also includes Blu Mediterraneo, Le Nobili and Signature of the Sun miniatures.

12 Days of Glowing Renewal by La Mer (coming soon)
Featuring 12 mini La Mer products from the popular Renewal Oil and Treatment Lotion to two 15ml mini moisturisers in the Soft Cream and original Creme de la Mer Moisturising Cream.
In Switzerland available from October 21, 2019 for CHF 440.

Townhouse advent calendar by Jo Malone London (coming soon)
As always, the calendar is filled to the brim with sweet-smelling products, with 24 doors containing small vials of perfume (9ml), candles and body lotion.
In Switzerland available from October 28, 2019 for CHF 490.

Deluxe Advent Calendar by Amorana
In Switzerland available now for CHF 479.90 – for intimate pleasures.

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands

«A daily bathing ceremony is one of life’s simplest luxuries. It is a chance to prepare yourself for the day ahead or reflect on the day just gone.» – Claire Croft (founder)

Today, I would like to introduce you to Abahna, a beautiful British brand that is now available exclusively at Marionnaud in Switzerland and that celebrates the ceremony of bathing. Something that has become very important to me. During the last months I had such a crazy schedule that I had this feeling of being literally crushed under a heavy pile of work. I wondered if I was just spinning my wheels, or if it was even worth it. I decided it is time for a change, to look at my own personal time management.

To counterbalance my busy social life as well as all my travels, I knew that I needed to allow myself some me-time to recharge my energy. Since a few weeks, I start my day with a book and leave my laptop unopened while having my first cup of coffee. In the evening, I light a scented candle, take my book and indulge in a bath without checking my iPhone at all. This helps me to clear my mind so I can focus on my actual goals that I would like to achieve in the near future.

Following the idea that bathing could be both rewarding and therapeutic, Claire Croft founded Abahna in 2005, inspired by exotic bathing ceremonies and spas that she experienced during her travels to India and the Far East. Influenced by the world’s many and varied bathing traditions, Abahna borrows from «nahana» (Urdu for to have a bath), the Russian «banya» and the Portuguese «banho». Her focus is on the product formulations and also on the packaging aesthetics. Therefore she carefully works with English suppliers who meet her high standards.

Let me introduce you little further to the ceremony of bathing as throughout the ages it has involved so much more than just getting clean. In ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, the purifying properties of water were revered with sacred practices, while across Asia and Africa special ceremonies honoured its life-giving powers. And still today, Japanese onsen, Moroccan hammam and Scandinavian sauna are steeped in elaborate bathing customs.

In all of these traditions, aromatic oils and natural extracts have been used for health, beauty and emotional wellbeing. Divinely scented and brimming with therapeutic qualities, these ritual preparations are the inspiration behind the Abahna collection.

Claire Croft designed every beautifully packaged product with these rich traditions in mind – from exotically scented soaps, foams and creams to natural wax candles and room diffusers – so that you can enjoy the benefits of your own sumptuous, multi-sensory bathing experience. Before you let the ceremony begin, please read those bathing do’s and don’ts.

• Don’t soak for longer than 20 minutes at a time – extended wallowing can dry out skin and zap energy.
• Don’t soak for longer than 3 minutes in a cold bath.
• Always wait until at least 40 minutes after eating before bathing.
• Bathing more than twice a day is not recommended, as it can strip your skin of its natural oils.
• Try to avoid having a really hot bath just before bed as it increases your heart rate which can make it hard to sleep.

And now enjoy your bath and some you-time. Abahna products make also beautiful gifts.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Abahna