Sandra‘s Closet

Welcome to the Mauritian Côte d’Azur and don’t let its name fool you, Cap Malheureux («Unlucky Cap») is a true paradise! Although its name sounds like a curse, this small fishing village located between Grand Baie and Anse la Raie, has a peaceful, pleasant coastline and is far from mass tourism. A must-see is the Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice Church also known as the Red Roof Church.

My look: Halliday lace-trimmed floral-print linen maxi dress by Zimmermann, Palm cutout embossed textured-leather bucket bag by Staud, Rockstud Torchon 105 leather espadrille wedge sandals by Valentino, green logo sunglasses by Miu Miu, and silver-tone, crystal and faux pearl necklace by Alessandra Rich.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Created for and inspired by travel, Flight Mode returns as a women’s capsule that elevates lifestyle dressing from Louis Vuitton. Comprising ready-to-wear, leather goods, shoes and accessories, the collection presents a wardrobe for the journey as well as the destination. From the functionality of a bag to the feeling of a fabric, Flight Mode continues to build a complete silhouette adapted to contemporary voyage.

The Neverfull Inside Out offers a useful spin on the beloved Louis Vuitton bag. Fully reversible, it can be flipped so that the original inside becomes the outside. A GM size Neverfull Inside Out comes patterned with Flight Mode travel stamps; the MM size is available with three lining colour options; and for both the MM and BB sizes, smooth calf leather is offered in chic and neutral shades. The classic Neverfull will also come in vivid Epi leather – each one endlessly versatile for everyday use, at home or away.

Other iconic bags are revisited in animations that nod to the season, whether the Noé cinched bucket style or the iconic Twist in Fauve, a reddish-brown Epi leather. The Speedy in a supple Monogram canvas makes a statement as three pre-embellished styles: a darker version with black calf trim and a gothic silver chain; a classic option with a golden chain, colourful lining, precious ostrich leather trim and thematic charms; and a craft-focused version with a chain of natural pearls and a special address tag. Additionally, several key shapes showcase the Mahina Monogram as a greyish Brume base with a gradient blue and white effect reminiscent of the changing skies.

Transported to a modernist house within a forested setting, the ready-to-wear shifts between outdoor and indoor. Like the Neverfull Inside Out, wrap coats are reversible and offer a soft yet sophisticated look in wool and silk. For a subtle signature touch, a variety of pieces recall the tonal Mahina pattern, while an all-over print of travel stamps introduces a lively touch of colour to padded vests, fluid silk skirts and light shell pieces. Casual silhouettes are loose yet put-together and include a Monogram grey denim ensemble; velvet jersey sets with colour-block detailing; and tech jersey coordinated looks that are at once sporty and feminine. As layering is integral to travel, the Flight Mode collection also encompasses embossed Monogram, mohair and cashmere knits and sumptuous shearling that can be styled for comfort and relaxed elegance.

Flight Mode footwear spans low impact activity to higher intensity. Sneakers are accented with eye-catching details. The LV Rush is a technical sneaker with a wavy graphic around the upper and elastic laces for an easy fit. Exuding ‘80s cool, the LV Stadium is a mid-top, bi-colour leather style juxtaposing green, rose or blue and white debossed with the mini Monogram. Louis Vuitton Paris curves around the lightweight sole.

Accessories that assure warmth play with the Maison’s codes. And as the weather transitions from fall to winter, a signature Corduroy cap, a LV Fluffy bucket hat, or even sporty socks add up to a total look.

Always channelling the spirit of voyage, Louis Vuitton envisions Flight Mode as a multi-faceted approach to dressing that is dedicated to travel and the ways this is integrated with everyday life.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton
DISCLOSURE: This post is sponsored. We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

All shades of green … Mauritius is called the green island in the Indian Ocean, thanks to the island’s rich vegetation, tropical forests, and the clear, emerald waters surrounding its coastline.

For the photos. I went to a scenic sightseeing spot up the hill of the village of Chamarel, which is one of the most visited spots on the island, blending in the vibrant, lush shades of green with my outfit.

My look: Cropped off-the-shoulder embellished stretch-jersey top, and matching embellished gathered stretch-jersey maxi skirt, both by Rabanne, Devotion mini bag in silver by Dolce & Gabbana, Crawford knotted silver and green leather platform sandals with crystals by Gucci, 36mm Oyster Perpetual Celebration by Rolex, and green logo sunglasses by Miu Miu.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Matching the temple in Mauritius … while driving around the Grand Baie area in the North, I passed the Tamil Surya Oudaya Sangam Temple, that is one of the oldest Tamil temples on the island. The temple is a riot of colours that can be visible even from a considerable distance. I had to stop and take pictures as my new pareo pants couldn’t gave been a better match.

Later, I enjoyed my time at the Constance Prince Maurice and indulged in their signature rum cocktail «Maurice de Nassau» at the hotel bar next to the white sand beach and tropical surroundings. The drink has an interesting combination of aged rum, coconut liquor, curry leaf, passion fruit puree, roasted pineapple juice and dried chili.

My look: Mila ruffled bikini by Maygel Coronel, red and white striped pareo pants by Loretta Caponi, wedge espadrilles by Castañer, wallet on chain by CHANEL, oval-frame gold-tone and tortoiseshell acetate sunglasses by Celine, and silver-tone, crystal and faux pearl necklace by Alessandra Rich.

LoL, Sandra

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

Greetings from Johannesburg, where I spent some amazing days. South Africa’s largest city and financial hub presents a complex tapestry of contrasts. It’s known for its stark disparities, where opulent neighborhoods and extreme wealth coexist alongside significant poverty and crime.

Outside of my hotel in Melrose Arch.

Johannesburg has a reputation for high crime rates, particularly in certain areas. As a result, security measures are pronounced such as armoured cars and security services. My hotel was in Melrose Arch, which is renowned for its world-class safety due to fences and security gates. Many homes in affluent areas are surrounded by high fences, electric gates, and security cameras. Private security firms patrol these neighborhoods regularly.

Despite the security concerns, Johannesburg is also a city of considerable affluence: It’s not uncommon to see high-end cars like Rolls-Royces, Ferraris, and Bentleys on the streets, especially in wealthy suburbs like Sandton and Houghton. The city also boasts numerous luxury shopping malls, upscale restaurants, and exclusive boutiques, catering to the affluent population.

Nelson Mandela Square is linked to Sandton City shopping center and is one of the most fashionable destinations in Johannesburg.

This juxtaposition of wealth and security highlights the broader socio-economic inequalities. Many residents live in townships and informal settlements, where poverty is rampant, and access to basic services can be limited. However, Johannesburg remains a land of opportunity for many, attracting people from across Africa seeking better economic prospects, which contributes to its diverse and dynamic character.

Everything can be found in Sandton City, from high end designer brands, to weapons and meat.

Johannesburg’s history, shaped by the gold rush and apartheid, continues to influence its current dynamics. The city is also a cultural hub, with a vibrant art scene, numerous museums, and a rich history reflected in landmarks like the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill. There are ongoing efforts to revitalize parts of the city, like the Maboneng Precinct, which aim to create safer, more inclusive urban spaces.

Armed convoy for our way to the airport with a bodyguard in our car and another car following us. You get quickly used to these security measures.

In summary, Johannesburg’s contradictions are a microcosm of broader issues facing South Africa, where wealth and poverty, security and danger, coexist in a dynamic and complex urban landscape.

Fantastic meat at the Butcher Shop and Grill.

In case you are visiting Johannesburg, I recommend eating some of the local specialities. Red wine and meat in South Africa are excellent and prices are really low for us Europeans and it might be worth it bringing some steaks home.

Vibrant and trendy place to dine is Marble restaurant in Johannesburg that carries an amazing selection of South African wines.

As a starter I love Kudu, which is similar to venison, with a slight gamey, yet meat-like flavor. It is a very dry and lean.

If you are a meat lover, you will have love South Africa. I honestly had the best steaks here.

Something you should not miss in South Africa. Definitely a classic to end a meal is having a Dom Pedro, which is something halfway between a dessert and a cocktail, like a grown-up version of a milkshake. The blended ice cream laced with alcohol is rich and creamy but lighter than a traditional dessert. It is totally my thing!

I had a great time in Johannesburg and can absolutely recommend a trip here. It is very close to the capital Pretoria and you can also go easily on a safari from the city. Visit for example Pilanesberg Game Reserve on a full-day safari, where over 7000 animals roam freely.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: This post is sponsored. We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise!

Puente Romano Beach Resort has partnered with luxury fashion house FENDI to welcome the world’s first FENDI gastronomic experience and a complete takeover of La Plaza – the vibrant heart of one of the Mediterranean’s most sought-after destinations.

La Plaza at Puente Romano Beach Resort has been completely remodeled and personalized by FENDI with lively colors and the iconic stripes of the Pequin logo-non-logo. The emblematic stripes are reinterpreted in a summer version featuring yellow and beige hues, dress up textiles, cushions, and sun umbrellas, reflecting the Maison’s heritage and codes. This year’s partnership follows the success of last year’s award-winning beach club FENDI x Puente Romano.

For the first time ever, FENDI x La Plaza becomes a day-to-night epicenter, offering a culinary journey starting from lunchtime and lasting long after the sun sets where guests can dine at an impressive choice of restaurants including Nobu Marbella, COYA, Cipriani, Gaia, and the legendary El Pimpi Marbella, recently. As the evening draws in, FENDI La Plaza is adorned in dim lights and candles, where the timeless aesthetic of the Maison meets the eclectic energy of Puente Romano Beach Resort for a gastronomic adventure.

FENDI La Plaza also welcomes the world’s first FENDI gastronomic experience housed inside a resort, where guests can expect a selection of dishes including the FENDI Lobster Club – a unique take on a club sandwich, a FENDI cheeseburger, a truffle rigatoni and burrata served with grilled peaches and prosciutto. Presenting a unique cocktail menu, guests can enjoy the FENDI Perché No, inspired by the fashion house’s new perfume launching later this summer with notes of leather and Italian citrus freshness. The FENDI Baguette Paloma mixes crisp grapefruit and lime with the smoothness of white tequila and the Peekaboo Margarita blends Volcán tequila with the zest of lime and a unique helium salt cloud, for a visual that’s as tantalizing as the taste.

Adjacent to the Puente Romano Beach Resort entrance and on the main promenade, FENDI presents its new pop-up store showcasing key items of the new S/S 2024 Collection together with iconic pieces such as Peekaboo and Baguette bags. Upon entering, guests are welcomed by a luxurious and soft aesthetics: materials are carefully selected and combined with perspective cuts, while furniture elements are reminiscent of the arches of Ancient Roman architecture. The new FENDI pop-up store in Puente Romano Beach Resort is one of the few selected doors revealing the brand-new family of fragrances presented by the Maison, which recently unveiled a complete collection of perfumes.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Puente Romano / Fendi
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French fashion house Jacquemus has partnered with luxury hotel group Four Seasons to create a summer experience at The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas.  This close encounter between one of Europe’s leading fashion brands and the legendary Ocean Club will immerse guests in the Jacquemus world of «pop luxury» befitting of a destination that has been a playground for the international jet set since the 1960s.

Les Sculptures, a Jacquemus Boutique

CARLO, The Ocean Club’s on-site boutique, has transformed into a Jacquemus shopping experience, featuring selections for men and women from the brand’s Spring-Summer Ready to Wear Collection.  First unveiled in January at La Fondation Maeght in the South of France, founder and designer Simon Port Jacquemus’ signature designs and bold silhouettes were presented among sculptures by Giacometti, Braque, Calder and others.

Jacquemus at the Versailles and Ocean Pools

The collaboration continues with a reimagining of The Ocean Club resort experience at the iconic Versailles and Ocean Pools.  Jacquemus has designed fabrics for loungers, accent pillows, sunshades and pool toys that are printed with a hand-painted stripe pattern in combinations of black/white, yellow/white, blue/white and red/white.

The Versailles Pool is surrounded by tropical landscaping, and towering palms set the tone for a serene adults-only oasis.  The Ocean Pool, perched above the shoreline is 38-metres (125-feet) of infinity-edge turquoise water with the Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop.

Four Seasons at Home: The Ocean Club, in Partnership with Jacquemus, Debuts a Must-Have Pool Towel  

In celebration of this collaboration, Jacquemus has designed a luxe towel in bold black and white stripes exclusively for Four Seasons.  Generously sized at 100 by 180 centimetres (40 by 70 inches) the towel is finely crafted in Portugal from 100 percent cotton.

This very special Jacquemus accessory is available while quantities last, only at The Ocean Club and at shop.fourseasons.com.

Experience Four Seasons + Jacquemus at The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas from June 7 to July 31, 2024 by booking a stay online this summer.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Four Seasons
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Follow the sun @jacquemus, @fourseasons and @fsoceanclub.

This summer, the Missoni Resort Club lands in Sicily, bringing its iconic patterns to the Verdura Resort by Rocco Forte Hotels to mark its 15th birthday. The collaboration combines creative energy and relaxation in a stunning landscape where to experience the Missoni lifestyle.

Plan your visit in summer and see this pristine beach pop with Missoni Resort Club prints inspired by the endless turquoises of the Mediterranean Sea. Recline beneath cabanas on sunbeds, towels, and chairs in sea blue and cool white accents that epitomise summer and combine Missoni’s energy and imagination with Sicily’s coastal tranquillity.

The Boutique
Visit the dedicated Missoni pop-up boutique offering a selection of the fashion house’s signature patterns. Fall in love with bold and beautiful designs that marry Missoni’s vibrant aesthetic with the serene ambience of Verdura Resort, and return home with a limited piece from this partnership, adding a touch of Italian flair to your poolside look.

The Cocktail Collection
Keep cool with a bespoke cocktail, such as the Kandinsky Escape or Missoni Breeze, served at the beach bar and at the newly refurbished Ondina pool bar and restaurant, overlooking the infinity pool. Admire breathtaking sunsets with a stylish poolside sundowner, inspired by Missoni’s dazzling colours and bursting with fresh, local botanicals. A multisensory celebration of your unmistakably Sicilian summer.

Just looking at the pictures, I get this amazing holiday vibe we all enjoy so much!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Rocco Forte Hotels
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I am so excited to be back in Saint-Tropez soon. One shop I will definitely pay a visit to will be the CHANEL boutique that will once again take up residence in the heart of La Mistralée villa. In the wake of major renovation work under the direction of architect and long-time collaborator of the House, Peter Marino, this historic building will be transformed into a permanent showcase. Having hosted the CHANEL fashion collections in temporary settings every summer since 2011, the boutique will now open every year during the summer season to showcase the latest ready-to-wear collections, alongside leather goods, accessories, shoes and costume jewellery as well as a selection of watches and fine jewellery.

More than just a boutique, this setting feels like a holiday home. The façade, with its green shutters, cream-hued walls and anthracite-grey railings, blends the CHANEL codes with colours typical of Saint-Tropez. The summer villa and its conservatory open out onto a Mediterranean garden complete with a pool and pool house. A veritable invitation to sit back and relax under the Côte d’Azur sun.

This new Tropezian sanctuary has been redesigned to echo La Pausa, the villa in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin that was entirely imagined and decorated by Gabrielle Chanel, and which holds a special place in the history of the House. The whitewashed walls, stone staircase and carousel of photographs projected onto a giant screen, resonate with this iconic place. The cut-out mirrors are reminiscent of the legendary folded-mirror staircase at 31 rue Cambon as the spirit of CHANEL subtly infuses every space.

With the entrance hall dedicated to leather goods, accessories, scarves, costume jewellery and eyewear, the ground floor also houses an exclusive selection of timepieces, including the iconic J12, Première and BOY.FRIEND, and the COCO CRUSH, Camélia, Comète and N°5 jewellery collections. An exceptional conservatory welcomes the shoes. A unique chandelier, sunshades and original furniture combining pale toned fabrics and woven leather render the overall effect sublime.

The floor devoted to ready-to-wear can be reached either by a stone staircase or an all-glass elevator that plays with transparency and light. The S/S 2024 ready-to-wear collection as well as the 2023/24 Métiers d’art collection – unveiled last December in Manchester – are presented here. Two areas, each with a salon and dedicated fitting room, complete the ensemble. For an exclusive experience, one of them can be privatised. Hand-painted curtains cast a light, airy feel over the surfaces while bespoke rattan furniture, touches of powder pink and raffia create a warm ambiance in keeping with the spirit of Provence.

Works of art throughout the boutique recall the unwavering connection between the House and the art world. Several lion sculptures – referencing Gabrielle Chanel’s zodiac sign – a painting by Georges Noël, a coffee table by Agnès Debizet, two vases with a golden patina by Johan Creten, and eight ceramics painted by Pablo Picasso – a loyal friend to the couturière – all add to the poetry of the place.

Traversing the townhouse leads into the luxuriant garden, a peaceful haven of Mediterranean plants and ancient bricks. The pool tiled in specially made Italian glass mosaics and the powder-toned pool house showcasing the CHANEL COCO BEACH collection, reflect the essence of the French Riviera.
The CHANEL boutique in Saint-Tropez is an invitation to discover the world of the House against an idyllic backdrop where elegance encounters the art de vivre of the Mediterranean.

CHANEL Saint-Tropez
1 avenue du Général Leclerc
83990 Saint-Tropez
+33 (0)4 94 49 07 47
Open from Monday to Sunday, from 11am to 1:30pm and from 3pm to 7:30pm

LoL, Sandra

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

Among the world’s most desirable seaside destinations, Saint-Tropez conjures cinematic village scenes and internationally renowned hospitality. For the second consecutive year, Louis Vuitton proposes a new iteration of the restaurant, Arnaud Donckele & Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton, at the White 1921 Hotel, located near its historical store. Opening on May 25th and conceived as an elegant oasis under the culinary vision of star chef Arnaud Donckele and chef pâtissier Maxime Frédéric, this multi-sensory concept puts forth inspiration and discovery, from the neo-gastronomy menu to the chic and breezy ambiance where guests can experience the summer art de vivre of Louis Vuitton.

First collaborating at the Cheval Blanc in Paris, Arnaud and Maxime reunite here, renewing a combined vision that plays out like a gustative journey amidst a legendary backdrop. Situated on the famed Place des Lices, the restaurant showcases a new menu along with a colourful twist to the iconic Louis Vuitton Monogram – from the table service to the décor. Both hailing from Normandy, the chefs have created a four-hand menu that reflects a shared passion for reimagining the Maison’s long-standing savoir-faire as a dining experience that begins even before the composition of each dish. Whether a rustic yet finessed tomato tart; wild prawn with a verveine-scented sorbet; roasted chicken with oregano served with herb-infused garden vegetables and a potato mousseline, Arnaud Donckele transforms premium, locally sourced ingredients into a sensorial voyage through the Provencal and Mediterranean region.

Maxime Frédéric, meanwhile, creatively interprets classic French desserts such as a raspberry pavlova and vacherin ice cream cake that can be enjoyed from day through evening. Embracing a philosophy towards food that extends from the freshest ingredients to meticulous execution, their approach brings a lively touch to every dish and is in perfect harmony with the artisanal values inherent to Louis Vuitton.

Naturally, Saint-Tropez provides a chic yet relaxed atmosphere for the restaurant, where rattan furniture is trimmed with natural elements of macramé, and upholstery throughout features the painterly Monogram motifs in an elegant orange colour scheme from the LV By the Pool Resort collection. Indeed, the colours also hark back to the Côte d’Azur of the 70s and 80s, a return to the Golden Age of the French Riviera. Back then, orange, yellow and ochre were very much in evidence on house facades, beaches, clothing and interior design. The terrace is surrounded by greenery enlivened with signature Louis Vuitton flower accents.

With the return of the restaurant comes a new Louis Vuitton Art de la Table collection suited to the relaxed chic of Saint-Tropez. The collection will be available from May 31st. Crafted in fine, extra-white Limoges porcelain, this seasonal range of dinnerware evokes a tropical paradise awash with flowers, coral and starfish. From the principal plates to the multi-use bowls, teacups and saucers, the motif enhances the summer table setting with an enchanting flourish. To accompany the Art de la Table collection, tablemats are also proposed and sold in limited edition in Louis Vuitton stores.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these raffia tablemats are handwoven. Their classic round shape is accentuated by an orange border, echoed by a delicately embroidered Monogram Flower in the center – a perfect match with the LV Resort orange tableware collection.

The Saint-Tropez Women store is also where visitors can discover the latest Resort Collection, LV By the Pool. Near the restaurant, the offer reveals in vibrant designs enhanced with natural materials such as hand-crocheted raffia and vivid tones of coral and turquoise, across ready-to-wear, bags, shoes, textiles, accessories and more. A tiled watercolour effect defines several bag styles while key silhouettes exude a laid-back allure. To carry through the holiday and beyond, the Saint-Tropez ONTHEGO MM Raffia comes in a limited edition for Saint-Tropez. Meticulously hand-crocheted by expert artisans over three days, the bag endures as a cherished souvenir item for years to come. Tucked behind the store, a serene garden environment welcomes clients who wish to enjoy a hot or cool refreshment. Amidst lush vegetation, the seating features the tiled Monogram of the LV By the Pool collection.

Throughout the season, visitors can explore Saint-Tropez thanks to not only the Louis Vuitton Summer Resorts City Guide set, but also a customised Mini Moke vehicle. Available on request, it can shuttle guests between the Cheval Blanc Hotel, the store and other dedicated spots to seize on all the unforgettable summer moments.

Arnaud Donckele & Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton
Hotel White 1921
Place des Lices – 83990 Saint-Tropez – France

Opening Hours:
From May 25th to June 1st –12:30pm – 10:30pm (lunch & dinner upon reservation on www.louisvuitton.com)
From June 1st to October 8th – 3:00pm – 10:30pm (dinner upon reservation on www.louisvuitton.com)

Louis Vuitton Women Store
Louis Vuitton Saint-Tropez
48, rue François Sibilli – 83990 Saint-Tropez, France
Opening Hours: From Monday to Sunday, 10:00am – 8:00pm

Louis Vuitton Men store
Louis Vuitton Saint-Tropez
53, rue François Sibilli – 83990 Saint-Tropez, France
Opening Hours: From Monday to Sunday, 10:00am – 8:00pm

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.