Sandra‘s Closet

What a whirlwind of events! While filming in Istanbul with little time to spare, the fashion world delivered a major surprise: John Galliano announced his departure from Maison Margiela after a decade at the helm of the OTB-owned brand.

John Galliano

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Galliano shared the news, writing, «Today is the day I say goodbye to Maison Margiela… I am forever grateful for this safe space to create and build a new family that supports me with courage and dignity.» He extended his thanks to his atelier team and Renzo Rosso, OTB’s chairman.

The move marks the end of an era for the house, originally established by the famously reclusive Martin Margiela. The brand gave Galliano the opportunity to rebuild his career and reputation following his controversial exit from Dior in 2011. Over the years, Galliano transformed Margiela with his signature theatricality, camp-infused creations, and innovative, deconstructed designs. He also championed gender-fluid fashion and elevated the brand’s «Artisanal» line to unprecedented levels of craftsmanship.

Me in the Maison Margiela Haute Couture studio after the amazing show in the beginning of the year, which is just next to Galliano’s office.

Under his leadership, Margiela saw significant commercial success, with a 22% rise in sales in 2023, even as the broader luxury market faced challenges. His legacy was solidified with a sensational January 2024 show in Paris, where historical couture-inspired characters roamed a haunting, mist-filled space under a bridge, complete with striking, mask-like makeup by Pat McGrath. Galliano leaves behind a storied chapter in Margiela’s history.

Galliano did not elaborate on his future plans, instead saying that «when the time is right, all will be revealed.»

Matthieu Blazy for CHANEL

I was hoping that he would be appointed at CHANEL but today the French Maison announced Matthieu Blazy as its new creative director, succeeding Virginie Viard, who departed in June. Blazy, formerly the creative head at Bottega Veneta, is recognized for his craftsmanship and innovative designs. His appointment is anticipated to infuse fresh energy into the French Maison’s iconic aesthetic. Blazy is expected to present his inaugural collection for CHANEL during Paris Fashion Week in October 2025. 

Louise Trotter for Bottega Veneta

Meanwhile in the past hours, Louise Trotter has been announced as the new creative director of Bottega Veneta, taking over from Matthieu Blazy. Known for her transformative work at brands like Lacoste and Carven, Trotter brings a refined design aesthetic and a strong sense of cultural awareness to the role. She is set to start at the luxury house in January 2025, making her the only woman currently leading a brand under Kering’s ownership. This appointment highlights her unique vision and the potential for a fresh chapter at Bottega Veneta.

One of the conglomerate’s biggest fashion brands, Fendi, has yet to name a new womenswear designer after Kim Jones stepped down from the role in October. I guess that Galliano will head up there. These significant shifts reflect the dynamic nature of the fashion industry, with Galliano, Blazy and Trotter poised to shape new creative directions in their respective roles.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands / © Sandra Bauknecht
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Back in sunny Zurich for a few days. My hometown is exceptionally beautiful as it is comes with a great mix of natural and urban landscapes. For this post I sported one of my favorite summer dresses this season together with my new CHANEL camera bag that I adore so much!

My look: Natura lace patch mini dress with cropped lace top by Zimmermann, sock booties with golden heels by Dior, camera bag in white by CHANEL, Courtney hat in sand and beige by Eugenia Kim, oval-frame gold-tone and tortoiseshell acetate sunglasses by Celine, and dotted shell gold-tone faux pearl clip earrings by Oscar de la Renta.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Outfit public, destination unknown. Would you go on a mystic tour, where the destination is unknown to you until the last moment? Ideal for adventurous travellers who enjoy the thrill of the unknown and trust the expertise of the travel planner, who will give you little insights about weather, season and activities beforehand so that you to know what to pack. The final reveal of your destination will happen while landing. I did it and I loved it!

My look: Denim chambray jacket with feather trim, and matching denim chambray wide leg pants with drawstring waist, both by Valentino, black and white printed long sleeve shirt (S/S 23 Look 1), sunglasses, and 23S denim mini flap bag, all by CHANEL, Nama low top sneakers by Chloé, porcelain earrings by Bulgari, straw hat, and book tote, both by Dior.

A very comfortable, yet stylish look to be ready for the adventure …

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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For a fun day at Centre Court, I wore Polo Ralph Lauren’s classic, preppy style that aligns perfectly with Wimbledon’s traditional aesthetic.

My look: Wimbledon embroidered cotton-blend jersey bomber jacket, Wimbledon appliquéd embroidered cable-knit cotton vest, and chino cap in white and blue, all by Polo Ralph Lauren, dark blue sailor pants by Dior, pearl necklace, sunglasses, and tennis mini crossbody bag (Cruise 2023 runway), all by CHANEL, and white leather loafers by Prada.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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A new trio to adore!  The floral bouquet of J’adore is infused in Les Adorables: a series of perfumed gestures to enhance the skin with a body milk, a shower gel, and a hand, nail and décolleté cream being the latest additions.

Like their predecessors, these three new Adorables celebrate the luminous fresh and floral notes of J’adore, delivering intense pleasure directly to the skin.
Their sensual fragrance is joined by the expertise of Dior science. Elevated by sensorial textures, their formulas promise effectiveness as much as well-being.

The cases of this unique trio also add to the pleasure of the senses. With their rounded form inspired by the bead that tops the iconic perfume bottle, they take on the aesthetic codes of J’adore to transcend the traditional bath and body universe and become objects of desire to collect.

The Shower Gel – Enveloping
The shower gel combines the bath ritual with a fragrant moment of pleasure, illuminated by the notes of J’adore. Infused with jasmine extract, it envelops the body with a fine, light foam that leaves the skin silky and lightly scented.

The Body Milk – Hydrating
The Body milk enhances the skin with a caress thanks to its formula composed of 92% natural origin ingredients enriched with jasmine wax. Its creamy, soothing texture hydrates and nourishes the skin making it more supple. It feels softer and is subtly scented with the floral notes of J’adore.

The Cream for Hands, Nails and Décolleté – Soothing
With its nomad format, the Cream for hands, nails and décolleté is the perfect ally for a subtly scented touch of softness at any time of the day. Composed of 97% natural origin ingredients, infused with jasmine wax and cotton nectar, its nourishing and hydrating formula blossoms into a smooth delicate texture. With a single touch, it leaves the skin supple and satiny, enhanced by the floral scents of J’adore.

Adorably Irresistible
In addition to their irresistible scent and sensorial formulas that look after the skin, Les Adorables are a delight for the eyes. Presented in sophisticated and feminine cases, they are endlessly collectable. Showcasing a design that reinterprets the aesthetic codes of the cult perfume bottle, the iconic bead is transformed across three white cases accentuated with a touch of gold. The small format, especially for the the Cream for Hands, Nails and Décolleté, means it can be slipped in everywhere, for a moment of self-care at any time of the day.

As an introduction to the Adorables universe, the House of Dior has brought together miniature versions of the first 3 creations in the collection – the Body Cream, the Shimmering Body Gel, and the Shimmering Body Scrub – in an exclusive set available in a selection of boutiques and at Dior.com.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Dior @DIORBEAUTY
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Dream more and make it happen. For me, anything is possible if I dress accordingly. The right outfit can make me feel confident, comfortable, and ready to conquer the world. It’s like wearing my personality or the attitude I would like to express on the outside.

Wearing a suit and a tie, combined with a pair of glasses can convey a sense of professionalism, confidence and sophistication. And can you see … modern angels are wearing their wings on their heels.

My look: Antiope double-breasted wool-blend blazer, Dovere wool-blend shirt, Ondina wool-blend shorts, and Giulia wool-blend tie, all by Max Mara, wide bow hair clip by Jennifer Behr, glasses by Tom Ford, Tribale earrings by Dior, logo tights by CHANEL, Pégasus heels by Hermès, Da Vinci laptop bag by Louis Vuitton x Jeff Koons Masters Collection.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / David Biedert Photography
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In order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline, and effort. Sometimes, it feels just wonderful to be spoilt. This can be a memorable experience you’ll be able to look back on fondly, a love letter, someone taking good care of you or a precious item that you will treasure for a lifetime and hand over to the next generation. As we know today, some items are truly investment pieces.

In terms of those must-haves, I would wish for something from this list below … just putting it out in the universe as my birthday is coming up. You never know what the fairy birthday godmother might bring … if you need help, just ask for Jean-Gilles, Antinea, Faby or Martin :-)! And now it is time for celebrations.

LoL, Sandra

Panthère de Cartier ring by Cartier

LOVE bracelet, 18K rose gold with diamonds by Cartier

Matte Alligator Birkin Faubourg 20 handbag by Hermès

Birkin Disco Faubourg 20 bag by Hermès

Mini Vert Yucca Epsom Kelly 20 by Hermès

Gilbert & George Lady Dior Art Bag #8 by Dior

Day Date 36 Oyster Everose gold with diamonds and rainbow dial by Rolex

Day Date 36 Oyster in yellow gold with diamonds and turquoise dial by Rolex

Oyster Perpetual Day Date 36 Puzzle by Rolex

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands
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An essential new accessory dreamed up by Maria Grazia Chiuri, the Dior Toujours – first unveiled at the Dior S/S 2023 ready-to-wear show – is distinguished by its elegant silhouette that is both timeless and ultra-contemporary. Conceived according to the highest standards of craftsmanship, this object of desire embodies the virtuosity of Dior’s leather ateliers.

Each step in its manufacture requires infinite meticulousness, from cutting the leather to applying the macrocannage motif. A subtle touch, an ingenious detail evoking the «CD» signature allows the shape of this model to be played with and modified as wished. A celebration of the poetry of gestures, fusing the heritage of the founding-couturier with the House’s ongoing creative passion.

It took me a season for this bag to grow on me but now I am absolutely in love. It is available in three sizes in five neutral shades, from black, powder beige, tan to stone grey and latte. A great bag that you can enjoy on many occasions.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Dior
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An invitation to venture away and to enchantment, this year’s Dioriviera summer capsule, dreamed up by Maria Grazia Chiuri, reveals a sunny wardrobe. Delicate feminine creations are dressed in shades of pink and gray, dear to the founding-couturier. Promises of an endless summer and for me great memories of my stay at W Ibiza.

My look: Dioriviera mid-length lace dress, medium Lady D-Joy bag, toile de jouy sauvage 70 square silk scarf, and J’adior Ibiza bracelets, all by Dior, logo platform sandals by Gucci, logo charm necklace by CHANEL, and Dynasty oversized geometric-frame sunglasses by Balenciaga.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Ivet Šudová 
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The Gstaad Palace is home to one of the most famous nightclubs in the Alps: GreenGo Nightclub. It is definitely the best place to party in Gstaad with its stylish interior design straight from the 1970s. Under the pulsing lights, I loved to dance the night away to the sounds of resident DJ Jim Leblanc and international acts in my beautiful new sparkly jumpsuit by German designer duo Talbot Runhof, that are well known for their beautiful evening wear. The perfect stylish, yet comfy outfit to enjoy the vibrating beats of the night.

As you can see, the club has a new highlight with the fun artwork by @wonderwalls 3780 that decorates the fumoir, featuring many celebrities that stayed at the Palace.

My look: Midnight blue sequined jersey jumpsuit Didi4 by Talbot Runhof, fox fur jacket in blue degrade colors by Dior, silver-tone crystal clip earrings, and embellished-heart tassel necklace, both by Alessandra Rich, black calf leather lace up Janis pumps by Saint Laurent, and Celebrations embroidered canvas book clutch by Olympia Le-Tan.

LoL, Sandra

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