Sandra‘s Closet

The Oetker Collection, the hospitality group behind Masterpiece Hotels including Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, The Lanesborough and Eden Rock – St Barths, amongst others, is teaming up with DREST, the world’s first luxury fashion gaming app. DREST players take on the role of a stylist, putting high-fashion looks together for daily challenges using an unparalleled catalogue of current collections from over 250 of the world’s top brands. Crucial to a player’s success in each photoshoot is their choice of location, as they select a backdrop most likely to help their photo stand out and win votes from the community.

«I am thrilled to collaborate with Oetker Collection and together usher in a new era for travel experiences in the Metaverse. Oetker Collection’s beautiful properties, in some of the world’s most desirable locations, are truly iconic and synonymous with style and elegance, making them the perfect partner for this, DREST’s latest gaming adventure,» said Lucy Yeomans, Founder of DREST.

Following on from partnerships with luxury brands such as Gucci, Cartier, Prada, Valentino and NARS who collaborate with DREST to unlock the highly engaged gaming audience, this is the first time a luxury hospitality brand will enable meaningful brand storytelling and discovery via mobile gaming.

«We are delighted to partner with DREST on this exciting collaboration, marking our entry into the virtual world. It allows people to discover Oetker Collection hotels in a fun and immersive way and the interactive challenges truly bring the escapism and glamour of travel to life,» shared Simon Neggers, SVP Sales, Marketing & Communications, Oetker Collection.

The exclusive partnership will be available for DREST’s players to style with across all photoshoot challenges, commencing with a dedicated programme of content in July 2022. To begin their virtual journey, players will be transported to Le Bristol Paris, the first hotel in France to receive Palace distinction, for a series of special photoshoots to coincide with Haute Couture Fashion Week. They will also have the opportunity to create a moodboard for their ‘stay’ at Le Bristol Paris, featuring scenes from inside the Parisian icon and special stickers such as Socrate, the beloved cat in residence.

Next stop on DREST’s French Oetker Collection styling odyssey is the South of France and the legendary Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, where players can get creative by pairing the latest vacation fashion featuring the property’s emblematic swimming pool as one of the backdrops.

A visit to nearby Vence is next as Château Saint-Martin & Spa, the exquisite summer hideaway offering dreamy panoramic view of the Riviera hinterland, is the third French destination of this first instalment of this roving luxury travel partnership.

The Lanesborough, the location of an intimate event to celebrate the partnership, will also feature in a challenge in the launch phase. Players will be invited to dress as if attending a lunch at the magnificent London landmark hotel’s chic new restaurant, The Lanesborough Grill.

Exclusive challenges featuring Oetker Collection’s remaining Masterpiece Hotels including, L’Apogée Courchevel, Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa in Baden-Baden, Eden Rock – St Barths, Jumby Bay Island in Antigua, Palácio Tangará in São Paulo, The Woodward in Geneva and Hotel La Palma in Capri, will follow throughout the year.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Via Oetker Collection x Drest
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What better moment than the summer holidays to embark on a journey of meeting clients and building a relationship? At Cartier, it’s a tradition that began towards the end of the 19th century. At the time, the jeweller would set up shop on the Riviera, between Cannes and Monaco, from June to September. This summer, Cartier will arrive in Nammos Village, Mykonos.

More than simple pop-ups, these seasonal boutiques are meeting places full of life, with a product range focused on the season’s desire for travel and colour – summer jewellery or watches that can be personalised on the spot. Their collections build a connection to their sun-filled destinations: the new photovoltaic Tank watches and their deep blue bracelets, the brightly coloured stones of the Berlingots de Cartier jewellery, and the Double C de Cartier bags with their pastel enamelled initials.

From shining and engraving to cord changes for the Trinity bracelet, the summer services are joyful experiences from start to finish: the hand delivery by a Cartier groom. These unmissable experiences are brought to life by works from the artist Konstantin Kakanias, known for the refined fantasy and sophistication of his installations.

«I imagined fun summer days and nights, with a totally free spirit where we indulge in nature, light, water, love, and beautiful things. Collaborating with Cartier was a real privilege, the Maison has such a rich vocabulary and history, which I loved to work with.» Konstantin Kakanias, Illustrator

The sun-drenched encounters continue beyond the walls of the boutiques with a program of events to encapsulate the feeling of a summer holiday, moving to the beat of a seaside escape.

I will be in Mykonos in August and cannot wait to explore this fun new place.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Cartier
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Acqua di Parma and forte_forte partner to showcase the forte_forte loves Acqua di Parma Collection in Forte dei Marmi, at the Bocelli family’s Alpemare Beach Club. An all-Italian love story inspired by the partnership between the Maison representing the most sophisticated Italian style and a fashion house offering dreamlike charm, featuring timeless designs that resonate with emotions.

Set in the charming seaside town of Forte dei Marmi, the historic Alpemare Beach Club has hosted artists, poets, and actors from all over Europe since the last century. Today it is owned by the Bocelli family, which has preserved its legendary charm, turning it into a marvellous oasis filled with timeless elegance.

The joyous atmosphere of the Italian Mediterranean, the protagonist of forte_forte loves Acqua di Parma, is conveyed naturally and spontaneously in this sparkling setting. The graceful fluttering of butterflies and dragonflies that characterises the collection adorns beach towels and soft cushions that decorate the beach tents, treating Alpemare guests to a magical experience.

The enchanting and dreamlike motif created by forte_forte for Acqua di Parma appears again in the scented candles strategically placed in the lounge areas, in the garden and in Alpemare’s restaurant. The bright notes of mirto di Panarea waft all around, resulting in an exhilarating sense of awakening and harmony.

The magnificent view of the Apuan Alps, the scents of the Mediterranean pine forest at one of the most picturesque stretches of beach, together with the contemporary works of art that embellish the areas, make Alpemare a veritable treasure trove of beauty and wellbeing. Here, Andrea Bocelli himself, the world- famous Italian tenor and singer, often performs a concert or indulges in a rare moment of relaxation.

«It gives me great pleasure to work with Acqua di Parma again for the third summer. This year’s forte_forte loves Acqua di Parma Collection immediately won us over with its glowing sensation of lightness, harmony and freedom. The dreamy, bright tones of forte_forte’s motifs, the joyful notes of mirto di Panarea: all perfectly complement the atmosphere of the Alpemare Beach Club, designed by us as a genuine oasis of wellbeing where every detail is taken care of. Together with forte_forte and Acqua di Parma, we have succeeded in enhancing the various areas with aesthetic and sensory features that create a unique experience for our guests», emphasised Veronica Berti Bocelli, wife of Andrea Bocelli.

Energy resonates everywhere while the fragrances of Acqua di Parma’s Home Collection featuring Blu Mediterraneo candles and diffusers waft through the air. The beach cabins, which Alpemare has left in their traditional style, are fitted with the Arancia di Capri amenities from the hotel line of Acqua di Parma in special recycled plastic (RPET) produced in Italy from recycled PET plastic bottles. The comfortable bathrooms are complemented with the Arancia di Capri Hand Soap and Hand Cream ranges.

A fragrant dream for an Italian holiday full of emotions. Enjoy!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Acqua di Parma
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Zurich gets a new hot spot, or let me say several new hot spots in one. FIVE Zurich will open its doors on 30th of June, 2022. Dubbed the new dining and nightlife destination in Switzerland, the new luxurious lifestyle hotel is boasting 87 luxurious suites with glittering skyline city view or lush forest view. Reviving Zurich’s wild side, the new party and culinary hotspot boasts 7 international award-winning restaurants, a rooftop nightclub and buzzing outdoor social pool. Detox before you retox at the lavish wellness spa with indoor pool.

This stunning hotel overlooks the city center from Zurich’s stunning Uetliberg plateau and is within a 10-minute drive to the city center and main attractions; and a 20-minute drive to Zurich’s main airport. Direct access to public transport within a 2-minute walk.

Recently shortlisted in the inaugural edition of the prestigious Gault&Millau UAE 2022 guide for two of its concepts, Maiden Shanghai and Cinque, FIVE is thrilled to expand its culinary offering to the discerning Swiss audience.

Delectable Dining
With breathtaking views of the vibrant city and magnificent mountains, these exclusive dare-to-be-different dining experiences include soul food meets street art at Soul St., imaginative Chinese at Maiden Shanghai, Japanese bites the FIVE Way at The Penthouse, a lounge for wine lovers at The Vault, a round-the-clock welcome at café and bar at Tune In and Zurich’s only out-of-doors Social Pool showcase a stellar line up culinary delights merged with FIVE’s legendary entertainment offerings.

Soul St.
Discover the art of global street food at this high energy immersive dining experience, which includes an open plan kitchen for guests to enjoy watching FIVE’s chef whip up fan favourite dishes. Diners can discover a selection of baos, authentic street tacos, a Vietnamese beef Pho, Chicken shawarma, the signature Nitro yoghurt bombs, Chicken tikka masala and Guacamole al mortero plated live on the table and a buzzing balcony bathed in fresh air, sunshine and lively tunes. With a vibrant mix of graffiti and art created by the most talked about International artistes such as Pichi Avo and Lau Rodriguez, this popular Instagram hotspot is known for its Global Street Food Party Brunch.
Soul St. Tip: Step into Soul St.’s eye-catching Volkswagen Van for an unforgettable in-van dining experience!

Maiden Shanghai
An MSG-free Chinese restaurant serving gourmet dishes, this 1920’s Shanghai-inspired restaurant boasts a stunning open air terrace, a high energy main dining room and a fun-dining, exclusive private dining room. Home to famed luxury lifestyle events including an award-winning brunch and weekly Ladies’ Night, this venue promises a glamorous take on traditional Asian cuisine with an exhilarating FIVE twist.

The Penthouse (Restaurant and Nightclub)
This day to night concept with evolving seasonal themes is all set to be Zurich’s most-coveted new destination for music and nightlife.
A distinctive venue that transforms from a restaurant serving a heavenly Japanese selection to a vibrant bar lounge and energetic nightclub with a stellar line-up of globally renowned DJs. Visitors can choose to sit indoors and be enveloped in the opulent décor of the fabulous restaurant area and private dining room or venture out on the terrace and marvel at picture-perfect skyline views and capture Insta-gold moments.

As twilight sets in, The Penthouse’s unisex, après hours bathroom bar will be the musical nucleus of FIVE until the early hours of the morning.
Dine on miso marinated black cod, salmon teriyaki or tempting sashimi, sushi and maki platters while sipping on FIVE’s one-is-never-enough signature cocktails such as The Mexican Cartel, Collins 2.0 and Sunset.

The Vault
An eclectic venue, which proudly houses Zurich’s greatest selection of Swiss wines, boasts of an in-house Master Sommelier that will guide guests through the perfect selection to suit their taste. The Vault will be a tantalizing retreat for wine lovers and novices alike along with an extensive cigar collection for cigar aficionados. The Vault’s tapas-style menu will focus on delectable wine and cheese pairings that’s FIVEs’ fun and feisty reinterpretation of traditional fondue.

Tune In
An all-day café and bar where visitors are warmly welcomed when they choose to pop in for a tasty takeaway or opt to sit in for an enjoyable tidbit and sip and watch the world go by from Tune Ins’ alfresco terrace garden. Serving up everyone’s favourite breakfast dishes, sweet treats in the form of luscious freshly baked pastries and scrumptious salads, pizzas and pastas for lunch and dinner, Tune In offers a playful plateful to fulfil any craving.

The Social Pool
Raising temperatures this summer, is our buzzing social pool. Framed by picturesque forest views, this stunning one-of-a-kind outdoor pool will host Zurich’s best pool days with live beats spun by globally renowned DJs, an integrated Jacuzzi space, tantalizing cocktails and delightful poolside nibbles – all served up with FIVE Flair!

«FIVE is thrilled to bring our pioneering dining and entertainment concepts to a brand new audience with the opening of FIVE Zurich. With revenge tourism taking centre stage on the global hospitality landscape, it is the perfect opportunity to build on our existing European clientele. ‘FIVERs’ come to us to indulge in the signature FIVE Vibe, which we’ve been celebrated for in Dubai – and which we will now introduce in Zurich.» – Aloki Batra, CEO, FIVE.

To book call: +41 (0) 44 456 55 55
Email: fzh.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of FIVE Zurich
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As the history of Louis Vuitton has been defined by innovation in travel, the Maison advances its Rolling Luggage series with the launch of Pégase, newly reimagined by Marc Newson. Among the most influential industrial designers of his generation, Newson has collaborated with Louis Vuitton on two previous designs since 2016: Horizon followed by the Horizon Soft duffle. With each chapter of Rolling Luggage, emblematic Louis Vuitton features combine with superior functionality.

Since the debut of his collaboration with Louis Vuitton, Newson reveals how savoir-faire, the hallmark of Louis Vuitton, benefits from a precise, forward-minded vision. «The objective for all three luggage collections was to have a consistent vocabulary between them and to share the same innovations,» says the designer.

Already, the Horizon and the Horizon Soft duffle stand out within the category. Beyond the recognisable Monogram or Damier canvas, the hard case and duffle shapes are both supported by an exterior trolley system and extra flat interior. For Pégase, Newson once again applied his expertise in materials and engineering, testing aluminium alloys used in aerospace to arrive at tubes of an unparalleled slimness. By reducing their interior protrusions, internal space is optimised throughout. Topped with an ergonomic handle, this latest trolley system excels in strength and manoeuvrability.

«This was one of the very first elements I wanted to address for the interior,» Newson explains. «You could say I approached this product from the inside out.» Meanwhile, in keeping with the spirit of Louis Vuitton himself, the option of packing cubes continues to offer a modular approach to the art of packing, compatible across the luggage collection.

In revisiting Pégase, Newson expands the Maison’s Rolling Luggage through rigorous and highly technical standards. The streamlined exterior is outlined with metallic zip hardware along the main compartment and an ample front compartment. The latter, newly sized for storing and protecting computers and tablets, is both an organisational and aesthetic feature that enhances overall convenience whether travelling for business or leisure. Two carrying handles are located on top and at the side for comfort of use, while two wheels offer an optimised interior volume. An integrated TSA combination lock and a removable TSA combination padlock keep belongings secured. The Pégase requires 28 operations to assemble its 89 distinct pieces and has been conceived so that components may be easily repaired and replaced accordingly.

True to the visual language of Louis Vuitton, the Pégase is offered in timeless Monogram, Monogram Eclipse, Damier Graphite and Taiga Leather. Underneath, the shell ensures that Pégase is at once lightweight and ultra-resistant. In this way, frequent travellers will appreciate that Newson has given equal consideration to exterior and interior.

As travel for any purpose becomes essential and exciting once again, Louis Vuitton Rolling Luggage collection delivers an elevated statement through design that is built to last.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton
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Being part of the NET-À-PORTER family comes with many privileges. It is my favorite online shopping destination, not only because of the great selection and the absolutely wonderful and outstanding personal shopping team, that always takes the best care of me, but also for all the amazing experiences and trips, plus all the wonderful people I met during these journeys.

As one of NET-À-PORTER‘s most loyal clients and someone with a passion for Italian craftsmanship, I was invited to join the team for a one-of-a-kind trip to Solomeo, the homeland of Brunello Cucinelli. Alongside my guest of choice, which was my fiancé, I was invited to an intimate tour of the manufacture and opportunity to explore Solomeo – a beautiful hamlet meticulously restored over the last 20 years. In addition, the MR PORTER Managing Director Fiona Firth co-hosted a dinner with Mr Brunello Cucinelli himself.

A warm welcome in our beautiful hotel room.

We arrived Thursday evening in Florence, where a car was waiting to take us to our hotel in Umbria, the Borgo Dei Conti Resort. After we quickly freshened up, we went down to meet the lovely NET-À-PORTER team for drinks ahead of a wonderful dinner.

Stay tuned for all my amazing experieneces during this trip. We had a private tour of Brunello Cuccinelli’s headquarters and manufacture, and  joined Mr. Brunello Cucinelli himself for an intimate dinner in his home in Solomeo. On Saturday morning, we went on an incredible tour of Assisi, followed shortly afterwards by a lunch. In the evening we had another amazing dinner in the surroundings of Solomeo before departing on Sunday morning.

I am so grateful for all the memories and encounters during this weekend that I will happily share with you during the next days. Thank you, Brunello Cucinelli, MR PORTER and NET-À-PORTER, for this amazing experience!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Life is bueno, life is good when you get to spend it in the Extreme Wow Suite at the W Barcelona. Featuring a Gaudí-inspired bar, foosball table and some fun relaxing areas where we took the photos, it also offers a jacuzzi on the huge terrace, and private sunbeds.
The dress is another fun rainbow colored one by Christopher John Rogers whom I presented you earlier this month (click here for the previous post).

My look: Rainbow striped long knit dress by Christopher John Rogers, coral brushed leather tote bag by Prada, Cindy sandals with fluorescent flowers and dalmatian spots by Sophia Webster, and resin bead necklace by Marni.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht 
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Welcome to EL&N – London’s most Instagrammable hot spot. Everything here is irresistibly chic, pink perfection with flower walls, pink interiors and alternative lattes taking social media by storm.

EL&N stands for Eat, Live and Nourish. I came across this place by coincidence when I was looking for a location to shoot. I couldn’t have worn a better outfit fitting the interior, don’t you think?
I went for a Turkish Delight Hot Chocolate, a rose flavored white hot chocolate covered with whipped cream, served with two Turkish delights, that was very yummy.

My look: Concert checked recycled woven blazer, matching Concert cropped checked recycled woven flared pants, Concert jacquard-knit merino wool, cotton and cashmere-blend tank, Concert striped silk-twill shirt, all by Zimmermann, Hippipump crystal appliqué suede ballet flats by Christian Louboutin, My LV chain pilot sunglasses by Louis Vuitton, and flap bag with top handle in iridescent grained calfskin and gradient lacquered metal, all by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Felicia Sewerinsson @feliciasewerinsson
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The Newbury Boston is one of my favorite hotels worldwide, a historic landmark in Boston, Massachusetts, 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. It is also home to Contessa, Boston’s most sought after dining experience and definitely the most trending hot spot. 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.

Its slogan «a well-crafted life» fits its service and the beautifully decorated rooms perfectly. Here you see me in my corner suite with its stunning views, reading the iconic Bostonian children’s book «Make Way for Ducklings» by Robert McCloskey.

My look: Glitter jumpsuit, pearl necklace and flap bag with top handle in iridescent grained calfskin and gradient lacquered metal, all by CHANEL, April silk-satin hair clip in pink by Jennifer Behr, and Fira velvet-trimmed suede and flocked tulle pumps in black by Jimmy Choo.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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London nights are the best. I love those British vibes that combine tradition with trendy joyfulness. Here you see me leaving my hotel, The London EDITION, that I can absolutely recommend, as well the Berners Tavern restaurant inside.

My look: Off-the-shoulder double-breasted wool-twill coat by Valentino, lace-trimmed point d’esprit tulle and plissé-chiffon mini dress by Dolce & Gabbana, Kate Botta Alta stretch-suede over-the-knee boots by Christian Louboutin, and Broadway lurex floral jacquard clutch by Gucci.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Sinbad Phgura @sinbadphgura
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