Sandra‘s Closet

On Monday evening, I was invited to a unique sensory experience by two famous Maisons, Christian Dior and Moët & Chandon. Both have united to create a new temporary concept, dedicated to the perfect olfactory pleasure at the ONYX Bar of Senses at Park Hyatt Zurich. Imagine, perfume that you can drink. Combining the savoir-faire of the perfumers and the cellar masters, cocktail lovers can enjoy an exclusive and individually prepared selection created by Hercules Tsibis, Bar Manager and Master Mixologist at the ONYX Bar.

Practicing social distancing: Hercules Tsibis with me

He developed six signature cocktails inspired by six exclusive fragrances of Maison Christian Dior, that harmonize perfectly with the aromas of the Moët & Chandon champagne Impérial Brut and Rosé. With the creative freedom of both houses, Hercules and his team created also six «essences», which enable a more intense version of the cocktails based on the principle of culinary reduction. Mixed with Moët & Chandon champagne, these «essences» offer a journey of taste.

Named after six beautiful scents by Maison Christian Dior that were chosen for their olfactory diversity, you can enjoy «La Colle Noire», «Rouge Trafalgar», «Bois d’Argent», «Gris Dior», «Spice Blend» and «Rose Kabuki». The menu offers two separate variations for each signature cocktail: a cocktail and an «essence».

«Essences» with miniature fragrances

Cocktail, accompanied by amuse-bouche and miniature of the fragrance CHF 28.50
«Essence», accompanied by an amuse bouche and miniature of the fragrance CHF 19.50

With beautiful Christa Rigozzi at the event last Monday.

Let yourself be enchanted by this experience, which consists of the play of colors, a bouquet of aromas and the extraordinary variety of perfumes. For this sensual sensory journey, head chef Tarik Lange created an amuse bouche that perfectly complements and completes your selection.

Filming the live talk between…

… Kiki Mäder, Tarik Lange and Stephen Ansell, GM Park Hyatt Hotel Zurich (from left to right).

You can enjoy it only for a limited amount of time, starting today until November 28, 2020 at the ONYX Bar of Senses at Park Hyatt Zurich.

LoL, Sandra

My favorite cocktail: Rose Kabuki

Photos: © David Biedert Photography

Since its launch in 1992, the Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign has united and inspired people globally to create a breast cancer-free world. Founded by the late Evelyn H. Lauder with the launch of the iconic Pink Ribbon, the campaign is the American beauty conglomerate’s largest corporate social impact program. It has raised more than $89 million to support global research, education and medical services, with more than $73 million funding 293 medical research grants through the Breast Cancer Research Foundation® (BCRF).

«It really is something that can never be done by any one person; it has to be done by a group.» – Evelyn H. Lauder, Founder The Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF)
In Memoriam 12 August 1936 – 13 November 2011

 Around the world, people are experiencing challenging times living amidst the coronavirus pandemic. This is true for all of those impacted by the disease, especially the breast cancer community, which now faces increased risk and vulnerability. But these days have also brought a renewed sense of unity, hope and inclusivity, as we all join together in the mission #TimeToEndBreastCancer.

#TimeToEndBreastCancer on Instagram

The 2020 Breast Cancer Campaign has launched a new social media call-to-action to rally supporters and raise funds for BCRF: Show your Pink Ribbon and share what it means to you. For every public, in-feed Instagram or Facebook post during the month of October featuring both hashtags #TimeToEndBreastCancer and #ELCdonates together, The Estée Lauder Companies will donate $25 to BCRF up to $100,000.

For all my Swiss readers who would like to support the 2020 Breast Cancer Campaign, pay a visit to the Charity Pop-Up Store at Zurich’s Main Station from October 8-10, 2020, where you can profit from 50% off several products from brands belonging to The Estée Lauder Companies, such as Clinique, La Mer, Estée Lauder, Bobbi Brown etc… All proceeds will be donated to «Look Good Feel Better». Throughout the whole month of October, you can also buy those Pink Ribbon limited edition products:

ESTÉE LAUDER Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex with Pink Ribbon Bracelet – CHF 149.00
ESTÉE LAUDER Pink Perfection Lip Kit – CHF 65.00
CLINIQUE Moisture Surge 72-hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator – CHF 42.00 (50ml)
LA MER Crème de la Mer – CHF 100.00 (15ml)
(50% of the sale price of each product will be donated to «Look Good Feel Better»).

AVEDA Hand Relief ™ Moisturizing Crème with Cherry Almond Aroma – CHF 40.50 (150ml)
(The Estée Lauder Companies will donate CHF 5.00 for each sold product to «Look Good Feel Better»).

It’s more than a ribbon. It unites us.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of The Estée Lauder Companies and © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post is not sponsored. I received some of the products as samples.

Many of you have been asking me lately how I stay fit and in shape. First of all, part of it is eating a healthy diet, so I make sure I am consuming plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. I eat everything in moderation and listen very carefully to my body. However, I also indulge in my guilty pleasures, which means for me a piece of cake or a glass of bubbly.

The other part of staying fit is exercising on a regular base. As I used to dance ballet professionally many years ago, my body still has memory how to maintain a good posture. My so-called powerhouse is engaged subconsciously, which burns calories. In case that you are not familiar with this term. Created by Joseph Pilates, the powerhouse is the center of the body and comprised of a group of muscles; abdominals (upper an lower), lower back, buttocks and the hip. It is the core of pilates. For him, the extremities, such as arms, legs and shoulders, is a muscular network that extends from this powerhouse.

What distinguishes pilates from most other exercise modalities is strength in movement is achieved through interconnectivity versus isolation, thereby the body is strengthened with more control and stability. Learning how to breathe correctly while exercising, also helps to calm your mind. Breath is a very important part of pilates. My avid readers already know that I love pilates.  I work out at least twice a week at PILATESwiss – premium, ecologically responsible studios for pilates and yoga. After my summer travels, I am so happy to be back to train.

In 2004 the first studio opened right on Lake Zurich, in Seefeld, which was doubled the size in 2011. This May, in the «vineyard of Zurich», sunny Höngg, a new studio opened its doors and I was curious to explore the new space that also offers wall classes with patented and locally produced PILATESwiss Boards.

The owner of PILATESwiss, Canadian-born Karolina Schmid, who is in my opinion definitely the best in business, designed the wall boards to further underscore her personal commitment to providing her clients with innovation and quality. I love to train with her and I can also recommend the whole PILATESwiss team of 25 quality-conscious trainers who are constantly perfecting their teaching skills.

In fact, PILATESwiss is the only company in German speaking Europe to achieve both PILATES Method Alliance accreditation (PSI) for its teacher training program and at same time YOGA alliance (YA) accreditation for its teacher training program. Globally, there is no higher independent, non-fiduciary test of quality available.

Today, personal training in environmentally «clean» spaces is something truly amazing. Besides their line of low carbon footprint machines that are made in Switzerland, PILATESwiss uses toxin-free or vegan cleaning products, and trains on ecologically conscious surfaces and textiles.

My outfit is by CASALL, a brand that is exclusively available at PILATESwiss. The tights consists of 78% recycled Polyamide and 22% Lycra. This sustainable fabric is made of 100% regenerated Polyamide fiber from post-consumer materials like old fishnets and others. It is super stretchy with a high Lycra®XtraLife percentage making it extra durable and flexible.

The crossback tank is made of 100% Tencel® fabric that is very soft and fluid. This fabric comes with natural antibacterial features and has good moisture absorption properties. Made of cellulosa fibres from sustainable tree farms, it is biodegradable. A conscious choice!

Shop my look: Iconic sports bra in black, Ease cross back tank in focus beige, and Better high waist tights in belonging beige, all by CASALL.

PILATESwiss
Studio Seefeld, Seefeldstrasse 225, 8008 Zürich
Studio Höngg, Ackersteinstrasse 207, 8049 Zürich
E-mail:
Phone: +41 78 891 03 17

See you there!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and Courtesy of Karolina Schmid
The photos were taken at Studio Höngg.

«Impeccably imperfect» – that is the new catchy slogan that the new Baur’s plays with. Imagined by Andrea Kracht and created by trendsetting interior designer Martin Brudnizki, who designed the elite nightclub «Annabel’s» in London as well as the «Beekman Hotel» in New York City and «Fortum & Mason» in Hong Kong, this hot spot in Zurich will finally reopen its doors in September this year.

I had the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful interior during a guided art tour as guest of Gigi Kracht followed by a beautiful intimate ladies lunch on the terrace of the Baur au Lac.

Gigi Kracht (center with green jacket) surrounded by her girlfriends.

«Take a set, grab a treat» – the classic brasserie concept is elevated to a whole new level, blending contemporary chic with international grace in an artful, inviting ambience. The colors blend in perfectly, the retro vibe delivers a certain twist. I adore the interior design of the Baur’s. It gives me this international flair that we are sometimes missing in Zurich.

As I am at the moment designing my new home, color is also a must for me along with stunning wallpapers to create the perfect ambiance. The Baur’s has it all. I am not a minimalist and white rooms don’t make me feel at home. I couldn’t agree more with Brudnizki who says: «When I enter a white space, I feel like I’m being deprived of something. Color infuses my life.»

The best is yet to come. The green color combined with the coral red of the armchairs serves as the perfect backdrop for the highlight of the restaurant: the private art collection. Drawing on the expertise of Gigi Kracht, Andrea Kracht’s wife, that my avid readers know well from her Art in the Park events, the room is filled with selected works from the world’s most popular painters: thirty-three originals by artists such as Rashid Johnson, Rita Ackermann, and Martin Creed to photographs by the iconic Annie Leibovitz, to intimate art work by Louise Bourgeois who shares a raw look at female pain.

Painting by Louise Bourgeois

Even that these simple yet cruel images contain a sensual sense of loss and the often unspoken sorrow of miscarriage, they seem to belong there, to this place of happiness and relaxation among dear friends or business partners, providing the bar area with a certain coziness.

Photographs by Annie Leibovitz

Cigar aficionados will enjoy the cigar lounge that is decked out from top to toe in Baur’s green and decorated with artwork by Swiss artist Dieter Roth, who took tablecloths, or even the floor as his canvas to scribble on.

Painting by Dieter Roth 

Playing all together, the new Baur’s is a feast for all senses. Vive la Brasserie! Vive le Baur’s!

LoL, Sandra

Artwork by Martin Creed

Painting by Rita Ackermann

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

EZGI CINAR launched her Zurich-based namesake demi-couture label in 2016. Her dreamlike collections are an homage to independent, passionate women, combining Swiss craftsmanship with Turkish romance. Dedicated to the woman who refuses to follow rules, preferring instead to make her own.

Me wearing the «All Dressed Up» mask

Now, she has taken her creativity further with the design of the most glamorous face masks that you can imagine. Made from scuba neopren, they are coated with mesh metal and / or crystals and lined on one side with a silicone strap to ensure the perfect fit for the ultimate protection.

Turning the mask around, you can see the immaculate craftsmanship. 

Personally speaking, I find them extremely comfortable to wear and the most stylish on the market.

TO SHOP EZGI CINAR FACE MASKS, CLICK HERE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Ezgi Cinar and © Sandra Bauknecht 

If you are living in Zurich, you will love a stroll through Belvoirpark with its wisteria-covered lanes and beautiful garden arrangements. Here you see me enjoying the lovely flowers that matched my outfit on a sunny afternoon this week. Isn’t it wonderful that we also have a Wisteria Lane like in Desperate Housewives?

My look: Sabina ruffled crinkled silk-georgette maxi dress by Ulla Johnson, Eacharpe shell, feather and silver-tone necklace by Isabel Marant, croc-effect leather slingback pumps by Fendi, The Pouch chain-embellished gathered leather clutch by Bottega Veneta, and plissé sunglasses by Dolce Gabbana.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

To accompany the second drop of their collaboration with avant-garde designer duo Viktor&Rolf this month, Swiss premium underwear label CALIDA takes its social responsibilities seriously and is now putting its passion, expertise, capacities and resources to work to produce reusable face masks.Made from organic cotton, those 100% compostable face masks embrace a unique Cradle to Cradle CertifiedTM approach to design, which follows nature’s model of circulating resources in a healthy, efficient way. No additional materials are required and precious resources are protected, thus ensuring a sustainable approach. The masks have been designed and manufactured to ensure the best possible fit, are reusable and can be washed at up to 70°C.

For maximum protection, it is recommended ironing the masks or placing them in the oven for around 30 minutes at 80°C after washing. The heat disinfects the material even more thoroughly and kills off any remaining traces of the virus once and for all.

An there is more to the project. In order to give back to nature, a tree will be planted for every sold mask in cooperation with the organization Trees of Life.

The collection is available from today on the Calida homepage.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Calida

As promised, please enjoy today’s detailed post about Déesse Pro, the original market leading LED phototherapy mask that is available at Sonja Frey Soni Cares. I know that this Hannibal Lecter-esque light-up mask looks quite funny, definitely very instagrammable. However, Alessandro Michele showed similar shapes (only as accessories) on the runway for this Gucci F/W 2019 collection so it seems to be quite fashionable.

No joking, here are the hard facts why I have become such a big fan. Light therapy provides a safe, pain-free way to achieve naturally vibrant and clearer skin. I have been using this tool for over four weeks and am truly impressed about its results. My complexion looked already brighter, tighter and smoother from the very first 10-minute use.

How does it work? The device uses low-level light therapy (LLLT) by way of medical-grade, surface-mounted, light emitting diodes (LEDs) in 4 variations to expose the skin to clinically proven 4 wavelengths of light, delivered at safe, therapeutic doses. These clinically proven treatments rejuvenate skin and improve the most problematic skin conditions.

Stars such as Kim Kardashian, Kate Perry, Madonna and US celebrity facialist Shani Darden already swear by it. Interesting to know is that NASA originally developed it for plant growth experiments on shuttle missions and later found it to have promise for wound treatment.

CHOICE OF 6 TREATMENT MODES

ANTI-AGEING – Red Light (630nm)
• Increases the production of collagen and elastin
• Help reduces fine lines
• Improves skin texture and tone
• Increases the skins natural hydration
• Stimulates circulation and lymphatics
• Revitalise the complexion
• Restores the skin radiance

PURIFYING – Blue Light (415nm)
• Improves skin clarity
• Blemish fighting action without irritation
• Helps regulate natural oil production
• Helps spot prone skin

BRIGHTENING – Green Light (520nm)
• Reduces the production of melanin
• Lightens and reduces existing pigmentation
• Improves the skin complexion
• Neutralises, balances and calms skin

POST PROCEDURE – Near Infrared Light (830nm)
• Boosts metabolism as more ATP produced
• Rejuvenates the skin
• Promotes circulation
• Promotes scar healing
• Improves loose, sagging skin
• Increases skin elasticity five-fold
• Reduces collagen loss
plus Red Light (630nm) plus Blue Light (415nm)

CALMING – Green Light (520nm) plus Blue Light (415nm)

ANTI-AGEING EXPRESS – Red Light (630nm)

This intensive treatment replicates salon-like facials from the comfort of your own home. You can choose for example between 10, 20 or 30 minute treatment sessions, between manual and pre-programmed options. A light protection for the eyes is delivered with the mask.

What else could you wish for while being in quarantine? Make time for yourself to practice self-care. Mood-boosting moments that offer some respite during these difficult time. During the past weeks, applying the phototherapy mask has become a fantastic and addictive ritual for me. While I am doing the treatment, I listen to meditation podcasts or sound baths to soothe my mind. I totally recommend taking part in Jasmine Hemsley’s Instagram Live sound baths every Saturday evening (@jasminehemsley). This time for myself has had such a positive effect on both my mind and my body, let alone how much my skin improved.

You will be amazed how many more positive effects this tool can give you. Please enjoy this little interview with Sonja Frey, who carries the mask in her online shop.

Light therapy is said to treat all sorts of skin conditions but it can even help with depression or sleep disorders. Could the Déesse PRO LED Mask help with this as well?
Yes, LED Light therapy of any kind is known to improve depression and sleep disorders as it improves the serotonin.

Can I use the mask also in other parts of my body such as the stomach or the knees for example for rejuvenation of the skin or to treat allergies?
Yes, the mask can be used on the body to treat other conditions i.e Acne on the back or Psoriasis on the legs etc (however, we wouldn’t recommend using Near Infrared – the lightening bolt button of the Mask – on these skin conditions).

 Can I use the mask also in combination with a facial mask under it?
The mask producer itself would always recommend to use the mask on a clean dry skin to maximise light absorption. A facial mask could be used pre or post treatment to maximise the outcome.
A lot of facial therapist do put a facial product first and then put on the mask.

What happens if the LEDs don’t work anymore, can I exchange them?
LEDs are not like normal bulbs, they do not have a«‚lifespan», it is rare for LED to just stop working. Also, the mask has a 1 year warranty from the date of original purchase.

Can I burn myself with this mask? Are there any side effects?
No, it is not possible to burn yourself with the mask, as you aren’t using UV rays. LED light therapy doesn’t cause burns compared to other anti-aging treatments such as chemical peels, dermabrasion, and laser therapy. It may be safe for all skin colors and types as LEDs are visible light rays and there are no known side effects.

If I use the green light, can I still get a tan?
The green light does not effect tanning. Even if you have a tan already, it won’t fade away and you will still be able to tan after using it. LEDs are not used as a source of tanning, because they do not emit UV rays. However the green light will calm your melanocyte activity and break down existing melanin clusters to improve hyperpigmentation.

What is your favorite treatment mode and why?
My favorites are Mode 1 for anti-ageing and collagen boost and Mode 2 for purifying depending on my personal needs. I usually combine Mode 1 with any other procedure to get the full spectrum, from  accelerating tissue repair to reducing inflammation or pore shrinking.

Do I need the light protection for the eyes? Or can I just leave my eyes closed?
I would always recommend protecting your eyes as a precaution either with the goggles provided or damp cotton rounds. Please ensure that you keep your eyes closed at all times.

The treatments come in two intensities. For whom is the higher intensity recommended?  In case I don’t have enough time, can I get the same results with a high intensity treatment of 15 minutes than with a low intensity treatment of 30 minutes?
The intensity mode refers to near infrared, which acts as a boost for your cell energy as it is optimizing the skin. It also has great healing powers as it stimulates the production of collagen and elastin to minimize skin aging. NIR does increase the heat in the skin, therefore for a sensitive skin keep the intensity on low. I would always recommend using the mask for a minimum of 15 minutes and a maximum of 30 Minutes, at least 2 times a week.

You will have to see for yourself how amazing the effects of light therapy are. This mask will help you find your inner peace through relaxation while boosting your complexion and providing you with beautiful, young-looking skin at the same time.

YOU CAN SHOP THE DÉESSE PRO PHOTOTHERAPY MASK AT SONJA FREY HERE.

LoL Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Déesse Pro and Sonja Frey Soni Cares
© Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: When you make a purchase, I am not receiving a commission. I am just a big fan of the product!

Today, I would like to introduce you to Swiss beauty entrepreneur Sonja Frey. I first met her at a wedding in Tuscany last summer and was immediately impressed by her beautiful skin and complexion. The 38-year old, who resides in Zurich, founded her online shop in 2019. Originally under the name Uniquare, she changed it this year to Sonja Frey Soni Cares.

Her catchy slogan, that plays with her nick name, «Soni Cares», stays also for her personal passion behind her brand. Over the years, the charming blonde developed a huge knowledge of everything organic and natural when it comes to skincare. After helping friends and family in finding the right products, she decided to take it to the next level with the launch of her beautiful online shop. Only health and beauty products that meet her high standard of quality, eco-friendliness, and clean ingredients are included. You will find brands of all price categories, as for her it’s not about the price tag, but the quality of each hand selected product. Great news is that Sonja ships internationally. Let us surprise you!

On your website, I read that you were a trained attorney-at-law before launching your online shop. Can you tell us a little why you decided to become an entrepreneur and what were the biggest challenges?

I still work as an attorney-at-law on an independent basis. The wish to become an entrepreneur has been in my mind for a long time. As I started to realise that toxic ingredients are used for so many  beauty products, I started to do more and more research and became very passionate about this subject. In the end I decided that I wanted to help others to easily navigate through the beauty jungle out there and find all the great products on one website. That’s how I started my shop.

What would be the best advice after becoming an entrepreneur to give to your younger self at the beginning?

Follow your dreams! It’s the best way to actually find a job or build a business which will last and be successful in the end. Only when you are really passionate about what you are doing, you will go the extra mile and people will believe in what you are doing.

Even Sonja’s dog Mimi is crazy for the GLO Precision Eye Pencil

Last year, you gave birth to your first child. How do you manage to combine both, being a businesswoman and a mother?
A very good question. I can give you the answer in 10 years:-). My baby girl is 11 months old, it does get easier. Of course it is hard to find time for everything, however as I believe in following your dreams, you can make anything happen.

How did you find the brands you are selling?

It all started with a personal passion (and addiction) to find the best brands for myself. So I started researching and researching and researching… During my travels for example, I was always checking the spas and local shops for their products, exploring their ideas about beauty, their philosophy. It is a continuing journey and really an addiction, I cannot stop looking for good brands, I am still doing so to expand my collection. I truly love all the products I am selling.

What is the common thread?

All brands work on a natural basis, are cruelty-free, non-toxic or anything similar. I am convinced that we all should reduce chemicals as much as possible in our lives, and only use them where they are really necessary. Most of the time, we forget our bathroom shelf. I was absolutely shocked once I learned about the ingredients that my former beauty products included, such as Polyethylene for example, a common component of plastics. This so-called microplastic is included in so many products, especially in facial scrubs, face wash or hands soaps among others. Besides being a primary concern for your health, those very small pieces also pollute the environment.

What is your own beauty routine?

I try to keep it simple, not too many products at once but change of routine/products from time to time:
– Morning: 1. cleaning, 2. face serum or cream depending on the season, 3. eye cream 4. sunscreen (always!)
– Evening: 1. cleaning, 2. serum/night cream or night mask, 3. eye cream

Do you have a beauty hack that you like to share with us?

Puh, I would say less is more. Don’t try to overdo it, give your skin time to breathe and use the right products, as natural as possible including some key ingredients. For example Vitamin C & A are great for the skin. I recommend the Vitamin C Treatment from NUORI and the Vitamin A Cream from SKINDESIGNLONDON, the latter will soon be available, so please stay tuned.

Sonja’s favorites

What are your favorite products on your website? Products we shouldn’t miss and why…

– Of course the Déesse Pro LED Mask, because it is the only beauty tool that replaces a treatment from a professional cosmetician.
– The Lumion Face Mist. I love it, especially at the moment, due to its antibacterial effects. It helps before an acne breakout and provides you with a clean face whenever you need it.
– The Regulatpro Hyaluron Anti Aging Drink. As we all know, beauty also comes from within. This is my daily dose of highly effective hyaluronic acid which naturally beautifies the skin, connective tissue, hair and nails.
– The Natural Perfumes from Dedcool LA. They smell fantastic and combine highest quality with natural ingredients. They are vegan, non-toxic, contain no palates, no parabens, no carcinogens and cruelty-free.
– GLO Pressed Base Powder. For me the best powder I tried so far, as your skin can breathe and it includes no harmful ingredients.
– FÎ-NE Deodorant Vetvier Geranium. Deodorants without aluminium salts are much better for your health and absolutely trendy at the moment. However, it is hard to find a good one that works and provides day-long protection. That’s why I like this one and its smell in Vetvier Geranium is divine.
– The Kokoso Coconut Oil for me and my little girl. It can be applied easily, is all natural with healing effects and can be used all over your body as often as you like. My absolute favourite coconut oil.
– If your budget is a bit higher, you will love the JK7 Golden Face Oil, it’s amazing. This beauty brand is a class of its own, very high performing and all natural. Once you have tried it, you will know what I am talking about.
But on my site, there are so many more amazing products, I could go on and on.

Do you use the Déesse PRO LED Mask on a regular base? Can you tell us a little more about this product?

The Déesse Pro LED Mask is where it all started for me. I was in the US for a few months and every cosmetic studio had a light therapy offering. I stumbled over the Déesse PRO LED Mask as it was the best one on the market and I found out that all stars and their cosmetic studios use this mask, like Shani Darden in LA for example. Of course, I needed to have it. Coming back to Switzerland, my friends were really interested to get to know this mask and as shipping to Switzerland was not possible at this time, I partnered up with the brand to do their exclusive retail here.

Ever since I got it in 2018, I use it on a very regular basis, sometimes daily, sometimes once a week, depending on my schedule. The good thing about the mask for me is, that I can also use it while watching TV. However, be careful, Déesse Masking in front of the TV is not for everyone, if you have sensitive eyes stay away from this. So what else can I say about this product. Maybe one thing, for me it was very interesting to find out that even NASA did some color studies and found out that this actually works. I still can’t believe that it is not yet popular in Switzerland. I am sure this will change.

Sonja Frey – a true pioneer when it comes to natural beauty

Sonja Frey in three words (adjectives).

Young, free and wild – haha, jokes aside: loving, intuitive, caring.

Thank you, Sonja, for sharing your beauty tips and experience with us!

As you know me, I always try things for myself to give you the best report possible. I have used the Déesse Pro LED Mask now for over 4 weeks and the results are truly amazing. I was blown away myself. Stay tuned, as I will post the detailed article about this beauty tool and light therapy in general shortly.

LoL, Sandra

Instagram @soniafrey.sonicares
Photos: © Sonja Frey

Yesterday, Anna Wintour, who helms the chairmanship at the Costume Institute since the ‘90s, announced via Vogue that the Met Gala 2020 will officially be postponed in light of the coronavirus outbreak. News of the postponement comes after the Met’s decision to close its doors until April 4.

Understandably, as everywhere in the world life is slowing down, taking a step back to fight together against this terrible virus. I am living in Switzerland that closed more businesses yesterday to slow the spread of the coronavirus but stopped short of ordering the country’s 8.6 million citizens to stay home. Under the new rules, restaurants, museums, cinemas, hair salons, and all nonessential commerce had to shut down at midnight until at least April 19. Borders with France, Austria, and Germany are tightened. The move comes just days after the Federal Council reintroduced border controls with Italy, closed schools, and banned gatherings of more than 100 people. As of Monday, Switzerland had 1,680 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 14 of them fatal. The country is only testing those severely stricken by the disease.

Yesterday at CHANEL – empty shelves in preparation for the lockdown.

Yesterday evening, I was the «last customer standing» at CHANEL. I had to pick up something before the store officially closed for many weeks. It was quite scary, seeing the shelves emptied and saying good-bye to everyone not knowing when we well be seeing each other again.

Personally speaking, I am really scared of the economic impact this health crisis will have. This is a particularly challenging time for many of the business, especially the small ones, regardless of their location, as the economic fallout from this situation will likely impact their business in some way. My industry is absolutely affected, the stock market experienced sharp declines, demonstrating the impact of the virus on consumer industries. While the impact on fields including travel, entertainment and technology are widely known, lifestyle industries – including fashion and beauty – have been affected as well. Most companies, especially the huge beauty conglomerates, depend on the Asian market with a strong focus on China as well as travel retail, two strong pillars that have just disappeared. Event cancelations and affected sales due to the closure of many stores also impact the industry tremendously.

Looking to a resolution for the global health crisis, Giorgio Armani has donated 1.25 million euros to hospitals and institutions in Italy. Versace made a contribution of about 144 thousand dollars to the Chinese Red Cross Foundation. LVMH announced on Sunday that it will use its perfume production lines to start making hand sanitizer that will be delivered free of charge to health authorities to protect people against the coronavirus outbreak.

Good news is that online sales are booming and as long as DHL and all the other shipping companies are allowed to deliver to our doorstep, we can still keep up with the fashion trends.

What is going to happen at Sandra’s Closet during the next weeks? I have to admit I am happy as a bug, for the first time I can enjoy being at home, working 24/7 on things and stories I haven’t had the time to write about due to my busy schedule. No travel plans, no FOMO (fear of missing out) as everybody is doing the same. I am not missing anything. Furthermore, I will relax, read a book, exercise and spend time with my daughter with whom I have finally the time to shoot a lot of outfit posts with no rush in between appointments.

Stay tuned, I will entertain you daily and hopefully make you dream of what we will be wearing when we get out of our exile. My dear fashion enthusiasts, enjoy your daily glimpse of fashion and beauty on Sandra’s Closet while staying home and healthy. And please laugh daily… that is the best remedy of all.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © David Biedert Photography – © Sandra Bauknecht