Sandra‘s Closet

My favorite hotel in Paris? Clearly the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme. Its excellent service, great location and beautiful rooms provide everything you can wish for. Here you see me outside the hotel leaving for Lancôme’s Wôw-Party.

My look: Stretch-silk and lace gown by Alessandra Rich, cutout leather platform pumps and Sac De Jour Nano leather shoulder bag, both by Saint Laurent, necklace, cuff and earrings, all by Chanel, Lady Excalibur watch by Roger Dubuis and diamond ring by Vainard Fine Jewellery.

LoL, Sandra

Photos : © Sandra Bauknecht

During Paris Haute Couture fashion week, a superlative event took place at the Casino de Paris – the ‘WÔW’ party, nicknamed after Lancôme’s signature letter – to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the brand, founded by entrepreneur Armand Petitjean in 1935.

Celebrating the House’s continually unique take on French beauty, guests enjoyed a surrealistic photocall where they were invited to strike a pose amongst giant cut outs of the brands iconic products and symbols, to the poetic fresh rose arch that served as an entrance to the theatre and a playful exhibition of carefully conserved objects from its patrimony: everything stated loud and clearly that “La vie est belle en Lancôme”, life is beautiful with Lancôme.

Celebrating 80 years of Lancôme is also celebrating femininity the Lancôme way. This could not have been achieved without the women who today embody the brand: Julia Roberts, Penélope Cruz, Kate Winslet, Lupita Nyong’o, Lily Collins, Alma Jodorowsky and Daria Werbowy were all on stage together for the first time ever, to wish a happy anniversary to Lancôme. Isabella Rossellini, who graced the brand with her charm and beauty for so many years, was the master of ceremony.

Among the highlights of the party, which gathered more the 1200 guests from the beauty, fashion, film and art world, was ultimate showgirl Kylie Minogue’s private concert of some of her most danced to songs, followed by French DJ Kiddy Smile who played late into the night.

Elettra Wiedemann, daughter of Isabella Rosselini,…

…Singer John Legend («All of me») and…

…Lisa Eldridge, recently appointed Creative Director of Lancôme Make up, were also in attendance.

Lancôme Power: Natacha Klein, Vincent Mottier, Margherita Masiello and Claire Jamet

With Margherita Masiello, PR Manager Switzerland Lancôme

The party is only one of the highlights of a celebration that started last January with the release of ‘Editions du Regard’ a book celebrating the brand’s heritage. This was followed by the launch of the first web only limited edition Lancôme products – three shades of the legendary L’Absolu Rouge, and a participative digital platform designed as a tribute to Lancôme’s customers “You are Lancôme”. Five participants who entered this creative ‘selfie’ contest won a ticket to the WÔW party.

The celebration will reach its climax in December with the launch of two extremely limited editions: the re-edition of Les Jumelés, a jewel lipstick case form Lancôme’s patrimony, and a very special version of the new La Vie est Belle l’Extrait created with France’s oldest high jeweller, Mellerio dit Mellers. Stay tuned!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Stéphane Fougère for Lancôme, © Sandra Bauknecht

For S/S 2015, soft and pastel, long tutu tulle skirts and dresses were gracing the runways, reminiscent of the lightness of a ballerina (in the collage above from left to right: Valentino – Giorgio Armani – Vionnet). They same trend can be seen for makeup. Creating the perfect no makeup look, mastering a healthy complexion, a radiant glow by applying subtle pink blush on the cheeks, nude eye colors that can get a colorful upgrade and lips that look as if they just had been kissed are the ultimate hype this spring. Here are the products that are wish list worthy:

FACE

Instaglam™ Compact Deluxe Contouring Powder 03 by Rodial
The beauty brand of the celebs is launching an amazing makeup line this spring. This face sculptor and definer can be best applied with a contour blush along cheekbones and jawline to sculpt and define the areas of the face.
CHF 72.00 (Available exclusively at Marionnaud from April 2015)

Météorites Perles de Blush – Eclat Angélique by Guerlain
An angelic complexion in a swish of brush, this small technological wonder infuses cheeks with soft, evanescent pink. A magical hybrid blush that recreates the glow of a complexion bathed in springtime freshness.
CHF 70.00 (Limited Edition)

Jardin de Chanel Blush Camélia Rose by Chanel
The exclusive creation of the Spring 2015 Collection Rêverie Parisienne, is the most romantic blush that can be easily slipped into your bag. This beautiful duo of pinks smells divine and recalls the delicate grace and purity of the favorite flower of Mademoiselle Chanel. 
CHF 63.00 (Limited Edition)

EYES

My French Palette by Lancôme
My favorite eye palette for the day this spring. The perfect mix & match for your eyes, it reveals a little secret of aquatic hues hidden under an extra lid in this treasure box. Create versatile looks from the most sophisticated to the cutest.
CHF 79.00 (Limited Edition)

Couture Palette Collector Ombre de Jour by Yves Saint Laurent
The name itself declares this palette to be used for the day but personally speaking it is perfect for a smokey eye look for a night out. A rare and precious object, this exclusive palette combines luminosity and darkness. Dressed in a glittering sequined pink all-over, the iconic gold case is belted with black satin.
CHF 100.00 (Limited Edition)

LIPS

Eclat Minute Instant Light Lip Balm Perfector 01 Rose by Clarins (far left)
I am convinced that you will love those new lip balm perfecters by Clarins as much as I do. Great for every day, part makeup, part skin care, it melts onto the lips to veil them with subtle luminous color. 
CHF 30.00 (Available in 6 colors)

Phyto-Lip Twist 08 Candy by Sisley (far right)
This spring, Sisley offers three new shades of its famous tinted balm, which is colored like a lipstick and shiny like a gloss. Ladies, let’s twist again! Easy to apply, it stays on for hours! If you haven’t tried it yet, you will have to now!
CHF 45.00 each

Veiled Rouge Sloe RS 308 by Shiseido
Mellow, delicate color and sheen, this lip stick keeps lips moist and shimmering like a veil. You will love it for summer. 
CHF 40.00 (Available in 8 colors, I adore this deep berry hue.)

Dior Addict Gloss 624 Mylord by Dior
Part of Dior’s Spring 2015 Kingdom of Colors Collection, this new lipgloss has the perfect shimmering mauve nude with gold sparkles mixed in.
CHF 46.00

NAILS

Le Vernis Nail Colour 625 Paradiso by Chanel
CHF 35.00 (Limited edition)
Top Coat Eclosion Blossoming 01 by Dior
CHF 38.00 (Limited edition) 
The perfect duo when for together!

This post is available in German and French on the Marionnaud blog. Check it out – there are more interesting products available.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, Runway photos: via Style.com and Stills: Courtesy of the Brands

Dear beauty lovers! It is this time of the year when I am looking for the best eye makeup palettes as most beauty brands are launching amazing limited edition products for the holiday season. In winter time, eyes should sparkle and shine in deep hues. I have always been a huge fan of smokey eyes and for this post I tried many palettes to present you my favorites. It’s a tough job but someone has to do it…:-). Here we go!

My favorite: YSL Palette Collector – Wild Edition – CHF 111.00

This is your little black book! The packaging of this palette is absolutely amazing. Including everything you need for eyes, lips and cheeks, you can carry it like a little clutch. The super chic satin tassel which is inspired by Saint Laurent’s passion for oriental styling gives it the ultimate touch.

DIOR 5 Coleurs in 046 Golden Reflections – CHF 90.00

Perfect for every day: when golden hues and metallic effects collide, they create a chic look. This palette is a token of femininity and a modern classic you can easily play around with.

CHANEL Les 5 Ombres de Chanel in Oiseaux de Nuit – CHF 80.00

For all night owls: the Chanel holiday eyeshadow palette with the eponymous name features five pretty shades: icy white, pale lavender grey, deep purple grey, black and antique gold. The texture is amazing and easy to apply.

LANCÔME Hynôse Palette Drama Eyes in Parisian Lights – CHF 79.00

Get ready for the party season with this limited edition Hypnôse eye palette from Lancôme. Play with dark, smoky shades and golden tones to create your dramatic look for the holidays, a spectacular eye made easy. The advantage of this palette is that you can use it wet and dry.

GUERLAIN Écrin 2 Couleurs in 10 Cygne Noir – CHF 62.00

For a magical mysterious eyes. Glistening black and copper-colored plum combine for a sophisticated finish. The perfect companion for the handbag because of its size.

Happy Self-Decorating!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands, Adriana Tripa and © Sandra Bauknecht

Finally, summer has arrived in Switzerland and I couldn’t be any happier about it. I spent the last sunny days like probably most of you outside and really got impatient to get a nice tan. Here is a post dedicated to my favorite beauty musts for the sun. Whether you want to look slightly sun-kissed or savagely tanned, these bronzers and spray tanning products will deliver.

Especially on your first day at the beach (like me above in Maui – Happy 4th of July to my American readers by the way!!!), you don’t want to look too pale, so you better start getting organized now…

ALL YEAR AROUND
LANCÔME Flash Bronzer Self-Tanner Gel gives you the perfect glow in a record application.
CHF 45.00 (50ml)
GUERLAIN Terracotta Sunless Tinted Self-Tanning Gel smells well and gives you a golden skin tone in a second.
CHF 72.00 (150ml)
GUERLAIN Terracotta Sun Celebration La Lacque Couleur in 602 Tonka Impériale. This limited edition nail polish has the perfect shade to match your summer tan.
CHF 37.00

BEFORE TANNING – SUN PROTECTION
BIOTHERM Brume Solair Dry Touch SPF 30. I love this ultra-sheer, oil-free and waterproof sun protection spray for the body that leaves a dry and matte touch.
CHF 39.00 (200ml)
SISLEY SUNLEŸA G.E. Age Minimizing Sun Care SPF 30 is the “Rolls-Royce” among the sun protection products and I love using it specially for my face. It is waterproof, protects and also minimizes the signs of aging.
CHF 245.00 (50ml)

AFTER SUN CARE
GUERAIN Terracotta After Sun Cream prolongs your tan and restores comfort to the skin after a day in the sun.
CHF 72.00
SISLEY SUNLEŸA Age Minimizing After-Sun Care is the best product to minimize aging due to sun exposure. It hydrates and cools your face. I like to use it as a mask.
CHF 207.00 (50ml)

This post is available in German and French on the Marionnaud blog.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

For summer Lancôme presents the Golden Riviera Summer Collection (in some countries it is named French Riviera Summer Collection and the products may differ) that offers everything for your upcoming vacation by the sea. Transport yourself to the the South of France with a look that creates effortless shine and a golden glow.

Star Bronzer Golden Riviera (Limited Edition) for Face & Body – CHF 72.00
Star Bronzer Golden Riviera (Limited Edition) Bronzing Brush – CHF 59.00

Cils Tint – CHF 45.00
Noir (01)

My favorite product of this collection! Cils Tint by Lancôme is the first semi-permanent lash enhancer that delivers intense black color to your lashes with up to three days of wear. The waterproof, transfer-proof, wax-free formula tints your lashes and allows them to keep their natural flexibility, while the addition of rose oil provides care for optimal lash health and radiance.

City Miracle CC Cream Complexion Beautifier Daily Defense SPF 50/PA – CHF 49.00
Beige Dragée (01) – Peau de Pêche (02) – Beige Aurore (03)

The 1st CC Cream by Lancôme perfects your skin like a foundation, beautifies it like an illuminator and hydrates it like a moisturiser. With SPF 50 to help protect the skin, it can be applied with a brush or fingers all over the face to reduce the appearance of imperfections for natural and flawless-looking results.

Gloss in Love – CHF 45.001
Glittermania (144) – Fizzie Rose (222) – Peach Show (146)

Vernis in Love – CHF 26.00
Marine Madrague (555) – Azur Pampelonne (557) – Or Citadelle (340)

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Lancôme

If you are somebody who is not very keen on wearing heavy foundation but still likes to mask flaws and add a little radiance to your complexion, you might thank me forever for this post. Here is a product that offers great coverage with a light and airy feeling. I tried it and it is truly amazing as it simultaneously moisturizes the skin throughout the day.

MIRACLE AIR DE TEINT is Lancôme‘s latest foundation launch and beautiful Penelope Cruz stars in the ad campaign. Try it, you will love it. It is like a veil, the lightweight formula is outstanding. A new makeup generation due to a mixture of volatile and semi-volatile oils, with “miraculous particles“, that are consisting of 90% air.

In Switzerland, Miracle Air de Teint will be available in 12 shades starting this month for CHF 62.00 a bottle.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Lily Collins is the face of Lancôme‘s Spring 2014 makeup collection FRENCH BALLERINE. Looking at her gorgeous brows, her beautiful complexion and her striking resemblance to Audrey Hepburn, it was only a matter of time before the actress and daughter of Phil Collins landed a beauty contract. And it couldn’t be a better fit as Lily’s grandmother, Jane Hale, was dancing en pointe professionally in the forties.

Her first campaign was lensed by Mario Testino. Lancôme‘s FRENCH BALLERINE features the most romantic products inspired by the pink satin ribbons sewn onto toe shoes. For every woman who ever dreamed of wearing a tutu.

BLUSH HIGHLIGHTER
01 Rose Ballerine CHF 65.00

HYPNÔSE PALETTE DOLL EYES
D06 Rose Ballerine CHF 79.00

OMBRE HYPNÔSE DAZZLING
DO114 Topaze Dorée – DO215 Spinelle Rose CHF 48.00 each

CRAYON KHÔL HYPNÔSE WATERPROOF
07 Taupe CHF 36.00

GLOSS IN LOVE
010 Volumizer CHF 49.00
202 Mocha Queen – 302 Rose Oscar CHF 45.00 each

VERNIS IN LOVE
030 Undercoat Color Booster – 366 Rose Satin – 537N Pearl Grey CHF 26.00 each

This beautiful and romantic collection will hit the shelves this month in Switzerland.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Lancôme

Are you still looking for a last minute gift for a dear girlfriend or a little something to achieve the perfect holiday glow or the right sparkle for New Year’s Eve? Set an enchanting tone for Holiday, with the new makeup collections that express the magic and mystery of an endlessly festive night. Here are my favorites, enjoy and get inspired!

PETITE ROBE NOIRE SO CRAZY POWDER by Guerlain

The star product of Guerlain’s Christmas collection is this luxurious, limited edition atomiser designed to provide a generous puff of powder, scent and iridescent shimmer for the hair and body. Nobody can resist La Petite Robe Noire with its beautiful ingredients of black cherry, almond and Bulgarian rose.

HIGHLIGHTER ROSE ÉTINCELLE – VEIL OF LIGHT by Lancôme

As though the Lancôme rose were captured in crystalline frost this winter… Subtly pink in hue, this iridescent powder instantly illuminates every complexion. Simply apply with a brush to beautify your face and décolleté.
CHF 65.00

DIORIFIC JEWEL MANICURE DUO GOLD NAIL LACQUER BASE & CRYSTAL PEARLS by Dior

Dior reinvents its jewel nail lacquer with a duo that teams a gold base with crystal micro-pearls to sprinkle over nails. A bold manicure for precious, 3-dimensional nails.
CHF 60.00

ILLUSION D’OMBRE by Chanel

Enlivened with metallic reflections, this product can be used to create an extreme, stylised look or simply to caress the eyes with a veil of mother-of-pearl. I have never been a big fan of cream eyeshadows but totally changed my mind because this amazing powder-cream texture makes the application a pure delight.

My favorite shade is 837 Fatal, a silver purple, which is part of the House’s “Nuit Infinie de Chanel” holiday collection.

THE ONE LIMITED EDITION 2014 by Dolce & Gabbana

I am in love with special editions and this impeccably polished gold version conjures the luxurious spirit of its content for the festive season like no other. Holding one of the most beautiful rich oriental floral perfumes, it opens with a sparkling and modern interpretation of fresh top notes of zesty bergamot and mandarin combined with juicy lycée and peach. The journey to the heart follows into the scent of Madonna lily and ends in a sensual base of vanilla, musky and amber notes.

HYPNOTIC POISON by Dior

After showing you all the limited edition highlights for the holiday season, I would like to introduce you to one of my favorite scents for winter: Hypnotic Poison, one of the best gourmand orientals on the market that was launched in 1998. Almonds and sambac jasmine mix with vanilla and musk to create a dark, bitter aroma. Pure seduction in a bottle and already a classic! Sometimes I only wear the body products mixed with another scent to achieve a new unusual combination.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and Courtesy of the Brands

Recently, I hosted an event with Patrizia Pepe in Zurich to celebrate the brand’s new amazing capsule collection GOLDENIZED for the festive season. In line with the name, all the looks are dedicated to golden hues and fabrics, teamed with black for a nice contrast.

The day before, I had styled the looks the models were presenting on the runway in the store, combining the must-haves from the GOLDENIZED collection along with some of the iconic pieces the Italian brand is known for. The makeup was all about smokey eyes created with products by Lancôme. During the evening, I explained my ideas behind each outfit and revealed some of my personal styling tips. While enjoying the yummy Lillet cocktails, the fashionable crowd indulged in late night shopping after the show. Enjoy the photos of the night!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of tillate.ch, © Sandra Bauknecht