Sandra‘s Closet

Have you always dreamed of having a fabulous Balmain piece in your closet but your budget has never allowed it? This wish might become soon reality. The French brand has announced the launch of a second line, Pierre Balmain, for S/S 2012 which will range around €120 for a tee, €250 for jeans and approximately €350 for a jacket.

Here are the first pics that honestly didn’t convince me so much. But with the economy not at its best, Decarnin gone, the customers that are willing to spend €10.000 on an embellished leather jacket might not be so easy to find.

The diffusion line will be produced with Italy’s Itierre SpA that also licenses Just Cavalli for example. Interesting to know is that instead of Balmain’s new main line designer Olivier Rousteing overseeing the collection, an completely independent creative team will be working on it. Honestly, I think the only thing those two lines might have in common, will be the name but I am sure that Pierre Balmain will sell like crazy.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Balmain

David Beckham follows in the footsteps of his designer wife Victoria. On the photos, he is still wearing Emporio Armani underwear, but this is going to change in the beginning of next year. Together with H&M, the famous soccer player and style icon will make a bodywear range for men available to millions of fans globally.

The long-term alliance will allow David Beckham to produce and exclusively sell his new DAVID BECKHAM bodywear line in around 1800 H&M stores in 40 countries worldwide, with new products being created seasonally. The initial range will be launched to coincide with Valentine’s Day 2012 from February 2^nd.

Hopefully, David will model his new line himself… his abs are pretty fantastic!

LoL, Sandra

Finally, Dolce & Gabbana Men is available at Mr Porter!

The F/W 2011 collection is dedicated to Bryan Ferry (he is even on a special icon T-shirt). But the Italian duo didn’t copy the man who is said to be one of rock’s best dressed singers, they only took some inspirations. The models walked to Ferry’s music on the runway in well-tailored suits, tuxedos and skinny suspenders. For the more casual days, Dolce & Gabbana offers cool leather jackets, striped sweaters, cropped pants and distressed denim.

For the launch of the brand at Mr Porter, three Italian screen stars were photographed in those must-haves for men. One, you will recognize for sure: Michele Venitucci, my colleague for the Closed F/W 2011 campaign shoot.

Gentlemen, we, the weaker sex, love a little Italian seduction… Viva la dolce vita!
And ladies, please stay tuned, Dolce & Gabbana will launch their beautiful women’s collection this week at net-à-porter, too.

Domenico Dolce recently in Milan with me

Below you will find my personal favourites worn by Paolo Bernadini and Luca Marinelli.

LoL, Sandra

When you hear the name Victorinox, you might associate it immediately with the Swiss Army Knife. But the Swiss brand has much more to offer, from travel luggage to watches to perfume and clothes.

I was recently invited to their hometown Ibach, Switzerland to visit the factory and to explore their newest project:
Christopher Raeburn for Victorinox – REMADE IN SWITZERLAND.

At the entrance a colourful and dramatic installation welcomed me presenting the capsule collection that the young UK designer has created for Victorinox for F/W 2011, consisting of eight items for both genders, each to be produced in a hand-numbered limited edition of 100 pieces.

“The project is a fantastic opportunity to align the innovation and individuality of my brand with the heritage and quality of Victorinox.”
– Christopher Raeburn.

Christopher Raeburn with me

From Parachute Poncho to Runway Couture

Raeburn has been known for his pioneering work taking old military surplus and transforming it into beautiful clothes since he launched in 2008 his label utilizing decommissioned military stocks of uniform and parachute fabrics to create functional and intelligent garments. Raeburn’s namesake designs are proudly REMADE IN ENGLAND in his small East London production facility.

For the project with Victorinox, he did the same. By taking apart the existing garments from local military surplus stores, he found inspiration and ideas to create new ones, re-imagining unexpected uses for the old and challenging the concept of what is considered new. Everything is proudly produced (“remade”) in Switzerland.

A rare find was a box of horseshoe nails that became the symbol of the project for Raeburn. He challenged Victorinox to recast that nail into scales for an Original Swiss Army Knife to complement the project. The nail also inspired a print used for linings and other graphic treatments.

For the project, Victorinox is working with local seamstresses and tailors. Corinne Kaiser, who is heading the team with Camilla from England, explained the process and the difficulties they experienced with some of the fabrics.

OFFICER’S PARKA constructed from surplus Swiss military sleeping bag outers, 2 front chest
pockets featuring reused original military Riri zips.

CAPTAIN’S COAT constructed from re-appropriated Swiss wool coats dating back up to 60 years and lined with over-dyed surplus Swiss military cotton bed sheets.

HORSESHOE NAIL KNIFE crafted from surplus military horseshoe nails melted down and recast as knife scales, packaged in reclaimed original coated paper box that held the nails.

PARACHUTE HOODIE constructed from 2 colours of surplus Swiss military air-brake
parachutes, tape from original parachutes and jersey cuffs from military balaclavas.

RECRUIT’S CAP constructed from offcuts of surplus Swiss military wool jackets and over-dyed cotton bed sheets, side panels can flip down to cover ears or fold up.

DUFFLE BACKPACK constructed from surplus heavy canvas Swiss tarpaulin with integrated
original buckles.

SENTRY’S SCARF constructed from surplus Swiss military blankets and over-dyed surplus Swiss military cotton bed sheets.

COCOON BLOUSON constructed from surplus Swiss military sleeping bags, reinforced with waterproof sleeping bag outer, can be roll packed like original sleeping bag.

The collaboration will be available throughout Victorinox flagships and most high-end shops worldwide. Check out the stop-motion preview below, it is pretty cool. Prices will range between CHF 700 – 2000 depending on the piece.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, Courtesy of Victorinox

During Milan and Paris menswear S/S 2012 fashion weeks, the streets have been filled with people wearing all sorts of fruits. Prada’s bananas (especially loved by the stronger sex, Tim Blanks rocked the print) plus Stella’s lemons and oranges were  seen everywhere. Remember, I have warned you before that this might happen. Please click here for the previous post in February.

And with the EHEC virus going around, wearing vitamins seems a lot more healthier than consuming them.

Photos: © Tommy Ton, Streetfsn, Upscale

I love my fruits. Recently at the Lovers Lane party with Bex Rox, I wore my Stella McCartney citrusy print dress with my Prada bananas earrings. Python Palais shoes by YSL, necklace Bex Rox.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Kevin McHey

Good news: H&M has announced that its F/W 2011 designer collaboration will be with Versace.

Designed by its creative director Donatella Versace, the exclusive collection will look back to the vibrant heritage of the brand, full of leather, print, colour and exuberance in exclusive materials at fantastic H&M prices. The collection will include ranges for women, men and selected pieces for the home. It will be available from 17 November in around 300 stores worldwide, as well as on-line.

In addition, Donatella Versace has also designed a pre-spring collection for H&M which will be exclusively available in countries with H&M on-line sales from January 19, 2012.

Donatella Versace was already wearing one of the dresses from the Versace for H&M collection at the Versace men’s fashion show in Milan June 20^th, 2011.

“I am thrilled to be collaborating with H&M and to have the opportunity of reaching their wide audience. The collection will be quintessential Versace, perfect for H&M and Versace fans everywhere!” – Donatella Versace

Versace is a brand that is steeped in glamour to its very core. Founded in 1978 by Gianni Versace, his daring dresses and wild iconography revolutionized fashion, creating provocative styles from classical themes which were all cut with an impeccable design eye. Since 1997, Donatella Versace has continued Gianni Versace’s work as creative director, evolving the brand into a global fashion house at the forefront of what luxury means today. Famous worldwide for her signature wardrobe, Donatella Versace is the epitome of everything the Versace house stands for.

Here is your sneak preview at the collection:

Versace is the latest house to collaborate with H&M on an exclusive designer collection, following the likes of Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney, Comme des Garçons, Jimmy Choo and, most recently, Lanvin.

For H&M, Donatella Versace has looked back to the archives to reinterpret some classic Versace designs. The womenswear collection will be dominated by dresses that fit right in with the spirit of the season, featuring studded leather, silk and colorful print, with accessories including high heels and costume jewellery. The men’s collection will focus on sharp tailoring, including the perfect tuxedo, as well as belts and jewellery for men, too. For the first time in a designer collaboration at H&M the collection will consist of some homeware pieces, including cushions and a bedspread.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of H&M, © Johan Sandberg

On Saturday, you were able to watch the Burberry Prorsum Menswear S/S 2012 show live on Sandra’s Closet. Today, I would like to show you whom I saw at the show in Milan and give you a little more insight into the collection.

The lull before the storm.

Anna Dello Russo with Bryan Boy…

…and with me.

Front Row: Julian Morris, Cara Delevingne, Rob Pryor and Jake Cooper

Christopher Bailey celebrated craftsmanship and laid the emphasis on the artisan spirit:

“This collection started with our iconic heritage as the foundation, we really wanted to emphasise this feeling of handcrafted pieces, celebrating craftsmanship but always with this playful element. We have taken our icons and played with texture to personalise and give them a real character and charm using colour to highlight the intricate detail that goes into crafting them.”

Christopher Bailey, Burberry Chief Creative Officer BURBERRY PRORSUM

There were lots of ikat prints, beautiful raffia trims and wooden paillettes. Those embellishments will make those T-shirts the next summer’s must-haves.  The crocheted details and the bobble caps were reminscent of the `70s and the hippie era. I am pretty convinced that those ethnical influences, the maxi bags and the earthy colours will be liked a lot by the stronger sex. Don’t forget, you can order some of the pieces now online until June 27, 2011.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, © Burberry

Yesterday, I was invited by Daniele Cavalli to see the Roberto Cavalli Men S/S 2012 show which took place in the beautiful garden of the Palazzo Serbelloni in Milan. It was truly amazing. Every single look screamed gorgeous. This is how men should look like, crisp cuts, great fabrics and a sexy allure.

Roberto Cavalli’s son Daniele is the designer for the men’s line and a real talent. The handsome Italian knows how to flirt with clothes, colours and women. Stripes were used in interesting ways, from a bold all-over-look to a more subtle tone-on-tone pattern on the cobalt-blue jacket. I especially liked the python trims, “very Cavalli” but with a young twist. The collection had a lot of `70s references and rock appeal. No wonder, as the 25-year-old draws a lot of inspiration from his probably biggest passion, the music.

As for me, it had a very nice Italian Riviera feel. Well done, Daniele! I would like him to dress the women as well. Probably we won’t need to wait too long…as the wind of change is blowing in the house of Cavalli! And it is a young and fresh one.

LoL, Sandra

Daniele had to give a lot of interviews before the show, here with his father Roberto.

Speaking with International Herald Tribune‘s Suzy Menkes.

A proud mum, Eva Cavalli

Me at the show with Carmel from the LuisaViaRoma team.

In the end, when the applause started, Daniele left the runway with a generous gesture to his parents…

…who then applauded their son. Their proud faces were really sweet to watch.

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Watch the Burberry Prorsum Menswear Spring/Summer 2012 Show Live from Milan here on Sandra’s Closet, today at 5pm (Milan Time)!

Be among the first ones to see the hot male models parading down the runway in the next summer must-haves by Christopher Bailey.

The Burberry Prorsum S/S 2012 menswear collection will be available to purchase immediately following the show through the “Runway to Reality” concept developed by the brand. You can go on burberry.com and buy outerwear and bags from the collection.
Orders that are placed immediately after the show on Saturday 18 June until Monday 27 June 2011 will be delivered within 8 weeks.
After that you will have to wait until December 2011, when the collection will hit the stores.

More from Italy’s fashion capital to come!

LoL, Sandra

O’gzapft is! My German readers will know what I am talking about. In Stuttgart it is soon to be Wasen time and in Munich it is soon Oktoberfest season! Those traditional festivities require a stylish look emphasizing your Bavarian spirit.

BOSS Black is launching Mid July a capsule collection as part of F/W 2011 which will include two dirndls and five traditional costumes  for men. Available online at www.hugoboss.com or in selected stores.

Enjoy your beer in style!

LoL, Sandra

Dress: Dirndl 2011 – 50214956 – 10151258 – 963 UVP: 499,00 €

Dress: Dirndl 2011 – 50214956 – 10151258 – 970 UVP: 499,00 €

Jacket: Colmont – 50211595 – 10147924 – 203 UVP: 349,00 €

Shirt: Ronny 16 – 50205480 – 10146452 – 212 UVP: 89,95 €

Leather Pants: Nevis – 50211592 – 10149563 – 240 UVP: 399,00 €

Neckwear: Bandana – 50211845 – 10149827 – 622 UVP: 129,95 €

Hat: Severinus – 50208771 – 10148761 – 001 UVP: 109,95 €

Jacket: Schorsch – 50211921 – 10118284 – 022 UVP: 449,00 €

Shirt: Fridl – 50211479 – 10149516 – 501 UVP: 119,95 €

Trousers: Stachus-W – 50211924 – 10139323 – 505 UVP: 119,95 €

Neckwear: Pocket Square – 50211822 – 10149811 – 531 UVP: 34,95 €

Neckwear: Oblong Scarf – 50211821 – 10149811 – 531 UVP: 119,95 €

Belt: Augustiner – 50212285 – 10150187 – 510 UVP: 99,95 €

Jacket: Hans – 50211923 – 10149663 – 240 UVP: 399,00 €

Shirt: Fridl – 50211479 – 10149516 – 610 UVP: 119,95 €

Trousers: Stachus-W – 50211815 – 10139322 – 202 UVP: 119,95 €

Neckwear: Pocket Square – 50211822 – 10149811 – 622 UVP: 34,95 €

Neckwear: Oblong Scarf – 50211821 – 10149811 – 622 UVP: 119,95 €

Belt: Augustiner – 50212285 – 10150187 – 610 UVP: 99,95 €

Jacket: Schorsch – 50211921 – 10118284 – 032 UVP: 449,00 €

Shirt: Fridl – 50211479 – 10149516 – 301 UVP: 119,95 €

Trousers: Stachus-W – 50211925 – 10141951 – 320 UVP: 119,95 €

Neckwear: Pocket Square – 50211822 – 10149811 – 801 UVP: 34,95 €

Neckwear: Oblong Scarf – 50211821 – 10149811 – 801 UVP: 119,95 €

Belt: Augustiner – 50212285 – 10150187 – 810 UVP: 99,95 €

Jacket: Sepp – 50211922 – 10141843 – 302 UVP: 349,00 €

Shirt: Fridl – 50211479 – 10149516 – 411 UVP: 119,95 €

Trousers: Stachus-W – 50211815 – 10139322 – 410 UVP: 119,95 €

Neckwear: Pocket Square – 50211822 – 10149811 – 692 UVP: 34,95 €

Neckwear: Oblong Scarf – 50211821 – 10149811 – 692 UVP: 119,95 €

Belt: Augustiner – 50212285 – 10150187 – 410 UVP: 99,95 €

Shoe: Festor – 50211896 – 10130716 – 601 UVP: 429,00 €