Hotel Amigo Presents the DVF Suite

In dedication to the world-famous Belgian-American fashion designer, The Diane von Furstenberg Suite has been unveiled at Hotel Amigo, a Rocco Forte hotel located in the heart of Brussels.

Adorned with DVF’s signature touches, a bold zebra rug, two large silk scarves by Andy Warhol, and a collection of striking artwork that celebrates her legacy with her world famous style and influence.

The iconic wrap dress that made von Furstenberg famous, is celebrating its 50th anniversary, and in honour of this milestone, the Brussels Fashion & Lace Museum is dedicating its new exhibition: Diane von Furstenberg, Woman before Fashion.

In celebration of the exhibition, Hotel Amigo has created a special offer for guests to Step into the World of Diane von Furstenberg from now through January 7, 2024 by staying in the DVF suite. Starting rate from € 2,640.

On arrival, delight in a box of Laurent Gerbaud chocolates as you explore the stylish suite. Venture out to the exhibition, Woman before Fashion, and immerse yourself in the timelessness of her designs. After delving into her illustrious career at the museum, return to your suite for a night of relaxation amid the unique DVF ambience.

Begin the following day with a complimentary breakfast, then enjoy a private visit to the DVF boutique. Experience first-hand the intertwining worlds of art, philanthropy and fashion that have shaped Diane von Furstenberg’s remarkable legacy.

LoL, Sandra

iconPhotos: © Rocco Forte Hotels
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Diane von Furstenberg, Woman Before Fashion

For the first time in Europe, a fashion museum is dedicating an exhibition to Diane von Furstenberg. The exhibition at the Brussels Fashion & Lace Museum, through a selection of more than 50 models and a vast iconography, presents the career, creations and personality of this extraordinary woman until January 7, 2024. Learn about the diversity and timelessness of the prints that have contributed to her fame, the freedom that inspires her work and her daily life, and the role played by art in her creations with works by friends such as Andy Warhol, Konstantin Kakanias and François-Marie Banier.

For this occasion and for the first time, the designer has opened the doors of her archives. Nicolas Lor, the curator, tells us about the nuggets unearthed in these vast textile, graphic and photographic collections and about the conception of the project. He also tells us about the many interviews conducted with Diane von Furstenberg. These rich interviews provide an original insight into the work of the designer and her famous wrap dress, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

Brussels Fashion & Lace Museum
Rue de la Violette 12, 1000 Brussels City
Phone Numbers: +32 2 213 44 50 and +32 2 279 43 67
Email: musea@​brucity.​be
www.fashionandlacemuseum.brussels

LoL, Sandra

iconPhotos: Courtesy of DVF and Brussels Fashion & Lace Museum
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First Night with Themis Z at The Island

My stay in Athens with THEMIS Z started already with a brilliant night at THE ISLAND, a landmark for more than thirty years when it comes to partying at the Athens Riviera. The dinner took place at the Gallery, one of the Island Art and Taste‘s private event spaces.

Friend of the designer, American actress Kelly Rutherford, who had flown in from L.A. for the event.

Offering the pleasures and privileges of a luxurious private estate on the coast, Themis hosted us in style with the most beautiful table setting.

Entering through exceptionally pretty bougainvillea-framed gates, the space with its extensive gardens is styled in the tradition of a classic Greek island house. The stone terrace, served by an open kitchen, leads to lawns framed by fragrant eucalyptus and chic box hedges planted with rosemary, lavender and aromatic flora.

The garden is cascading down to a picturesque chapel overlooking rocky coves so these landmark moments can be accompanied by the sound of waves on the shore below.

We indulges the the most amazing traditional Greek food, while being entertained by a local guitar player. I enjoyed spending time with old friends while making new ones.

With our lovely host Themis Zouganeli in one of her beautiful designs.

More to come… TO SHOP THEMIS Z, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Next level of style: Ester is matching her outfit to the tableware.

iconPhotos: © Sandra Bauknecht 
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Louis Vuitton – New Store On Graben in Vienna

Last month, I took the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Paris to Vienna as guest of Louis Vuitton. Once I arrived in the Austrian capital, I visited the new Maison’s new store that has relocated to an expanded space on Graben in the heart of the city. Occupying four floors of a historic building, this new store presents the Louis Vuitton universe within a beautiful Viennese backdrop.

The store is the latest realisation of the design concept developed by Peter Marino for locations such as New Bond Street, Los Angeles and Ginza. Among the largest in Europe, it benefits from Vienna’s status as a dynamic cultural destination and a nexus for travel.

Designed by Max Kröpf, Oskar Laske and Viktor Fiala, the building dates to 1898-99. Its listed façade is ornamented with reliefs depicting long-distance trade and coats of arms from such cities as Hamburg, Trieste and London.

A spacious layout showcases the full Louis Vuitton offer and Peter Marino signatures, including striking art, objects and furniture that correspond with the design heritage of Vienna. Defined by curving walls and open sightlines, the store is organised around an exceptional staircase that unfurls with floating steps in four tonal varieties of stone. At once sculptural and a means of circulation, it is juxtaposed with a statement wall, panelled in commissioned works by well-known Austrian artist, Erwin Wurm. Bright and graphic, the eight paintings are composed of abstracted words: Form, Love, Body, Beauty and more.

As the history of Vienna is inextricably linked to its progressive movements in art and design, both figure significantly in the store’s expression. Notably, a pyramid of trunks has been hand-painted in the spirit of Gustav Klimt and other artists of the Vienna Secession. Vintage extends to contemporary – from an Alvar Aalto daybed and a Carl Malmsten modular sofa to Matt Gagnon’s Custom Light Stacks and Fernando Daza’s Four Intercepted Circles. With its flower-shaped bubbles, Atelier Biagetti’s Flower Tower lamp stands as a glass totem at once decorative and whimsical.

If you are in Vienna, this new store is a must-see, not only for the things to shop, but for its design!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / © Louis Vuitton 
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A Very Royal Occasion

England is busy gearing up for King Charles’ coronation and if you were planning on taking a short trip to the royal nation, the first week of May would be the perfect time and I have a great suggestion what to do and where to stay.

In celebration of His Majesty King Charles III’s Coronation (6 May 2023), Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London has specially curated a series of bespoke experiences and events to mark this special moment in British history. Guests of the hotel are invited guests to enjoy and celebrate the occasion with its opulent accommodation suite experience ‘A Very Royal Occasion’ to rejoice this remarkable event.

A Very Royal Occasion is available from 1 May to 31 May 2023 with prices starting at £4,000 inc VAT and includes the following:
· A stay to remember in one of the hotel’s luxurious suites
· A regal welcome amenity fit for kings and queens
· ‘King’s Caviar’ breakfast with Oscietra caviar and Full English breakfast where guests may catch a glimpse of the Royal Horse Guards passing by or breakfast enjoyed in the privacy of their suite.
· Two-Michelin starred, 4-course ‘Royal Cooking’ lunch or dinner for two at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
· A specially curated Highgrove Hamper filled with a selection of exquisite tea and preserves
· A 50ml bottle of Laphroaig whisky – His Majesty’s favourite malt whisky
· Additional benefits available when becoming Fans of M.O.

The Royal Cooking Menu2* Michelin Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is marking the special occasion with a creative menu of reinvented dishes that were served at British Coronation banquets throughout the years including an additional dessert in celebration of His Majesty. The exclusive 4-course ‘Royal Cooking’ Menu includes: Coronation Chicken Tart; King James II (1685) – Veal Sweetbread; King George IV (1821) – Fillet of Beef Royale and King Henry V (1413) and King Henry V (1413) – Fflampayne. The Trifle; HM King Charles III (2023).
Priced at GBP155* per person, with an optional wine pairing at GBP125 per person, the ‘Royal Cooking’ menu is available from 1 May until 31 May 2023.

Time For Tea with Highgrove – Inspired by the best of British heritage and quintessential afternoon tea dishes served at the Royal table, The Rosebery is offering guests an unforgettable Coronation Afternoon Tea in partnership with Highgrove – the private residence of Their Majesties King Charles III and The Queen Consort.


Time For Tea with Highgrove is lovingly prepared by Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London’s talented pastry chefs and includes: The King’s Coronation Chicken, Clarence Court egg truffle sandwich, The King’s Cypher, freshly baked scones and plenty more. Carefully selected tea will also be offered including the estate’s organic English Breakfast and Earl Grey. Time For Tea is available until 14 May 2023.

A Royal Toast – As guests raise a glass to His Majesty King Charles III – The Aubrey and Mandarin Bar has created a special menu in partnership with Laphroaig. Three different whiskey cocktails will be available at both outlets from 1 May to 9 May 2023.

Your Royal Invitation – Guests of Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London, as well as passers-by, are invited to enjoy:

The Coronation lollipop infused with flavours of vanilla and whisky decorated with the King’s cypher. Vanilla flavoured lollipops will be offered to children. These lollipops will be available outside the Ballroom entrance on 7 May 2023 from 5.00 p.m. to 6.00 p.m. – for all to enjoy on a complimentary basis.

The Coronation canapés will be offered to guests at The Rosebery and Mandarin Bar between the hours of 19.48 p.m. and 20.23 p.m. (marking the life of King Charles from his birth year to the year of his Coronation) over the Coronation weekend.

The façade of the hotel will be illuminated in a beautiful deep blue colour – the prime colour that has been chosen for His Majesty King Charles’s Coronation Emblem to mark this celebratory occasion.

Get to know His Majesty King Charles III – hotel guests will have the opportunity to embark on a journey with the aim to get to know the King better. A specially created map including the King’s favourite haunts all of which have been granted a Royal Warrant by His Majesty. Guests will be able to venture out on a self-guided tour to visit establishments including Lock & co, Berry Bros & Rudd, Floris, John Lobb, Ettinger, Gieves & Hawkes and plenty more. The map will be available from Concierge and be offered to guests booking ‘A Very Royal Occasion’.

The Royal Glow – guests are encouraged to visit The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London and enjoy the hotel’s signature treatment – ‘English Rose Massage’ – known for its beautiful rose scent and its calming, yet uplifting, effects on the body.

Royal Connections – Since 1902 Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London has had the honour of welcoming members of the Royal Family on multiple occasions, whether it was for charity events or prestigious banquets. To learn more, guests are encouraged to visit the ‘If Walls Could Talk’ exhibit permanently located at the hotel.

Enjoy this special moment in British history in style!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Mandarin Oriental
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Floating Breakfast

If you are scrolling through Instagram, odds are good that you’ve seen at least one «floating breakfast.» In case you’re not familiar with them, here’s what to know: they’re a typical luxury hotel room service breakfast – think avocado toast, eggs, fruits, colorful smoothies, coffee and the like – served in a pool or hot tub instead of in bed. Usually, they’re placed on large platters or baskets that have a floating cushion under them, then accessorized with tropical flowers to make them even more photogenic.

These breakfasts are particularly popular in Asia and the Pacific, especially at warm-weather private villa resorts in places like Phuket, Bali and the Maldives. I enjoyed mine at the Ritz-Carlton Fari Islands resort. It was absolutely breathtaking to start my day with a delicious floating breakfast while enjoying the stunning view of our water villa pool.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht 
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My Look: Vitamin Sea

This feed was in terrible need of some Vitamin Sea. Who else is excited for those carefree days at the beach?! I love wearing vibrant colors that complement sun-kissed skin the best. A great way to protect your hair from the wind, while looking super stylish, is a silk scarf tied around your head. I sported this styling trick a lot at the Ritz-Carlton Fari Islands resort.

My look: Jeannie terry midi dress by Zimmermann, Almost Bare metallic leather sandalsicon by Aquazzura, Colorama flap bag in quilted watercolor (S/S 2014) by CHANEL, cutout acetate butterfly sunglasses in shiny black smoke by Fendilong beaded tassel earrings in forest greenicon by Oscar de la Renta, shell and beaded bracelet by Isabel Marant, Oyster Perpetual 36 with a turquoise blue dial by Rolex, and «Le Géographe» vintage silk scarf 90 designed by Sandra Laroche (1992) by Hermès.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht taken by Munko at Ritz-Carlton Fari Islands
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The Newbury Boston

I spent quite some time in Boston, Massachusetts during the past two years as my daughter studies here and I love to visit her. The city has grown on me so much and I have become an absolute fan. If you haven’t been here, I truly recommend coming to explore the town. Boston is one of the most historic cities in the United States. Known as the «Cradle of Modern America,» the American Revolution started right here at the Boston Tea Party and it can still be felt at every cobblestone corner. It is also the only state capital in the contiguous United States with an oceanic coastline.

Where to stay when you come to visit? I absolutely love The Newbury Boston which is one of my favorite hotels worldwide. This historic landmark in Boston, originally opened in 1927 as The Ritz-Carlton Hotel at that time. The property anchors fashionable Newbury Street and the picturesque Boston Public Garden, located in the heart of the Back Bay. High end luxury shopping is in front of the door, with iconic houses, such as CHANEL, Hermès and Bulgari being just across the hotel. After a complete refurbishment under the creative vision of renowned designers Ken Fulk, Jeffrey Beers, and Alexandra Champalimaud and being renamed The Newbury Boston, it opened its doors again in May 2021.

The slogan is «a well-crafted life, a century in the making.» Being part of the «Leading Hotels of the World», the hotel embodies the very essence of Boston. Designed for both business and leisure travel, the concept is about approachable, everyday glamour, where modern comfort meets layered luxury in the heart of the vibrant city.

The rooms are stunning. I stayed in different categories and liked them all. Some suites even come with a cozy wood burning fireplace. However, I enjoy my Grand Suite accommodation the most with its spacious footprint and stunning views over the park. It features a separate living room with a large bay window, a seating area and large sofa plus extra chairs. At the entrance, there is a separate work area with a desk overlooking the prestigious tree-lined residential Commonwealth Avenue. The suite also has a mini kitchen with coffee maker, sink and fridge.

Next to the bedroom, there is a separate closet area with great mirrors on the way to the bathroom, which is huge with an elegant pale granite. You can enjoy a walk-in shower and a large bathtub in the middle. The whole concept of the suite feels like an actual apartment which I absolutely adore. Sitting in front of the large window at the table, working and indulging in the change of the season is absolutely stunning.

Personally speaking, the olfactory experience in luxury hotels is just as important as the interior design. Therefore, The Newbury Boston has partnered with Byredo to create a custom scent for the bath amenities. Inspired by The Boston Public Garden, Willow incorporates notes of the local flora – namely Bergamot, Aldehydes, Musk and Amber. It is such a beautiful scent to indulge in that also fills the rooms and corridors. Being evocative of the city and available only within the hotel walls, you can also buy it to transport you back to your memorable stay, even when you are at home.

The culinary concept at The Newbury Boston is extremely refined and offers great options. It is home to Contessa, Boston’s most sought after dining experience and definitely the most trending hot spot, located on the 17th floor of the hotel with stunning views overlooking the city. The staff is extremely attentive. Contessa restaurant is a MUST when you are in town— a true see-and-be-seen spot! Don’t miss the famous squash carpaccio.

With Carlos Bueno – Managing Director – The Newbury Boston – at the Street Bar

If you prefer a quick bite, I recommend a cobb salad or the spicy pink lobster chowder at the Street Bar, which is another favorite of mine. Located next to the hotel entrance, this bar bridges past and present. Here you can enjoy the cozy interior while looking outside the window seeing the stylish Bostonian crowd passing by. It is also a great spot for having drinks at night.

If you are a tea time lover, you won’t be disappointed at The Newbury Hotel. Perched upon the second story, overlooking treetops and luxury boutiques on Newbury Street, The Newbury Salon is the setting for the signature Afternoon Tea, a ritual reclamation perfect for the ultimate every day and occasioned party.

After all these culinary experiences, you might want to hit the gym which is located on the 3rd floor. Being yery spacious, it is overlooking Commonwealth Avenue. Here, you can maintain your fitness routine at this state-of-the-art Fitness Center. Designed by Jay Wright, who is behind several high-end fitness centers in luxury residential projects, the space is equipped with Life Fitness and Freemotion equipment, Peloton bikes, TRX suspension trainers, yoga mats and blocks, free weights, resistance bands, and more.

The Newbury Boston is such a wonderful place to stay with a homey feel in a great part of the city that I can absolutely recommend. I am writing this post in front of the large window… and honestly never want to leave.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht 
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Prada Caffè

Prada is to open Prada Caffè at Harrods in London, a space designed to add a new dimension to the brand and offer customers a unique and engaging experience. The environment revisits Prada’s visual hallmarks, with every choice – from the decor and menu to the tableware and atmosphere – reflecting the brand’s language, approach and distinctive way of viewing the world.

Inside, the walls, ceilings and velvet-upholstered sofas and armchairs are delicately coloured with the brand’s iconic green. The floors reproduce the black-and-white chequered floor of the historic Prada boutique on Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, while the floral bas-reliefs on the walls evoke some of Prada’s flagship stores across the world.

The tableware is original and exclusive, selected by Prada to match the surroundings and ranging from pale-blue Japanese porcelain with a contrasting double black line, inspired by ancient Celadon pottery – tea and coffee cups with lids, teapots, plates and trays – to blown-glass crystal glassware, including the Triangle series with its quintessentially Prada triangular pattern.

The range of food and drink on offer covers the entire day, from breakfast to evening cocktails, and provides a subtle, modern take on Italian tradition, with sandwiches and risotto sitting alongside buffalo mozzarella and salmon and crab dishes and spritz – and negroni-based aperitifs complementing the list of signature cocktails. The wine list spans the whole of Italy, with bottles from Sicily to Piedmont.

Pastries play a central role, displayed both on the spectacular central counter and the wall behind: the selection of fine patisserie products pairs expert craftsmanship with modern techniques and classic ingredients with more contemporary flavours and aromas.

Prada Caffè will be open from 31 March 2023 to 7 January 2024, from 9 AM to 9 PM Monday to Saturday and from 12 PM to 6 PM on Sunday, with an entrance on Hans Road. It will soon be joined by an outdoor stall, which will offer Londoners a delicious range of ice creams.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Prada
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Moschino After Show Dinner

The MOSCHINO after show dinner took place at Osteria La Risacca 6, an amazing restaurant specializing in seafood in Milan. Each dish on the menu was extremely good, prepared exclusively with fresh seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere was vibrant, great music played and we danced at the table.

With lovely Sara Bongiorni from MOSCHINO.

If you love fish dishes and you are in Milan, you must visit this restaurant.

After the dinner, we ended the night at Just Cavalli Club. As the name implies, the nightclub was designed by the designer Roberto Cavalli. Especially during fashion week, the club attracts fashionable club-lovers from across the world owing to its bespoke interiors and the overall clubbing ambiance.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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