Sandra‘s Closet

«Some scents explicitly capture real aspects of my life. For example, every note of OMBRÉ LEATHER is connected to the American west of my childhood. The PARFUM builds on the wild, unbridled sensuality of the original scent…it is a heightened expression.» – Tom Ford

Tom Ford just launched the newest perfume edition, OMBRÉ LEATHER PARFUM, a warm and spicy rich floral leather scent for women and men, which captures the American west with magnified notes of violet leaf, cedarwood, and green tobacco. Perfumer Sonia Constant composed both, the original OMBRÉ LEATHER and the new OMBRÉ LEATHER PARFUM.

Building on the untethered, tactile sensuality of the original scent, OMBRÉ LEATHER PARFUM intensifies the distinctly rich, luxurious leather signature with surprising new additions. Violet leaf absolute orpur breathes a powerful, intensely green air, giving way to the elegant, woody sensuality of cedarwood. Harvested before the monsoon season to produce an elevated extract, jasmine sambac absolute India orpur offers an intense, fruity floral facet recalling honeysuckle. Deep leathery and woody notes laced with green tobacco undercut the floralcy, stoking a creamy sensuality while a double concentration of orris heart pulses beneath, releasing a captivating, addictive pull.

Key Notes: Black Leather, Violet Flower, Jasmine Flower

About the Bottle: Packaged in a matte-black flacon with a faux-leather plaque, the OMBRÉ LEATHER PARFUM flacon captures the bold, tactile sensuality of the spicy leather scent.

Personal Recommendation: I love combining it with TOM FORD Lavender Extrême. It is such an interesting combo.

Available in the beginning of September 2021 in Switzerland.
OMBRÉ LEATHER PARFUM 50ml (CHF 156.00) and 100ml (CHF 256.00).
TO SHOP THE NEW SCENT ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Tom Ford Beauty and © Sandra Bauknecht
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Today, I would like to introduce you to the new Jean Paul Gaultier fragrances that just have launched with a cute little story written in paradise…

IN GAULTIER’S GARDEN

One morning, Jean Paul Gaultier walked into his Factory. It was large and lively and happy. He looked at the women, and he looked at the men. And his mind wandered to leisurely pastimes. And he thought, «Women and men should spend time together, it is good.»

On the first day, he created a garden. The garden was magical and enchanting, and in the spirit of easy virtues everywhere!

On the second day, he created La Belle and Le Beau. Born from JPG Classic and Le Mâle, but as butt naked as their first day in this world. And they’re not even cold, those two! On the third day, he created the most delightful, divine and delectable sins … On the fourth day he rested. In his garden, the party was in full swing. Everyone was in the mood for discovery, adventure; of themselves and each other. And it smelled (al)most divine!

THE BOTTLES

Jean Paul Gaultier created the bottle of La Belle – and the bottle appeared. In the shape of a woman’s bust. It was red dipped in pink, and spoke of modesty as well as the most lascivious licentiousness. Around the neck, gold roses formed a necklace, a modest covering that serve only as an invitation to a final and temptation-filled unveiling …

Then, Jean Paul Gaultier created the bottle of Le Beau, and the bottle appeared. In the shape of a naked chest. It was green, and it shimmered. A leaf of vine, in gold, carefully placed where the eyes might linger.

Jean Paul Gaultier looked at the exquisite busts and exclaimed: «These two were made to lead us into temptation!» And they were.

THE PACKAGING

Jean Paul Gaultier created the casing of La Belle, and the case appeared in the garden. It was the softest green, almost almond, and amongst the foliage of this very modern Eden, matched with everything. Its gold letters gleamed, and it was oh-so-tempting to touch the fruit, – and it wasn’t even forbidden!

Jean Paul Gaultier created the casing for Le Beau, and the case appeared at the foot of a bush. It was emerald green, so dark, reminding us of all that is lush in this world. Its golden letters glimmering like the honey of original desire.

Jean Paul Gaultier looked at the two provocative, sexy cases, and said: «Presentation is everything – and nothing!» And it was.

THE FRAGRANCES

Jean Paul Gaultier opened the case of La Belle, took the bottle, and inhaled deeply the essence of the perfume. It smelled of oriental vanilla, but a vanilla so fresh, it quenched the soul. He could also identify vetiver; where the miraculous smell of fruit, a pear, was clearly pointing.

Jean Paul Gaultier opened Beau‘s case and, closing his eyes, inhaled (no denials here). The smell of coconut wood inspired a profound desire to relax, while the bergamot and the tonka bean whispered to him that lounging was the most refreshing of sins.

Jean Paul Gaultier inhaled both perfumes together, and declared: «They go well together. Forever and ever.» And thus a world was created.

PERFUMERS

Quentin Bisch and Sonia Constant teleported themselves to Gaultier’s garden.
As is their way, they emerged themselves into this strange and soothing exotic world. These two, who love to explore the world and who know it so well, came back mesmerised by The New Land, with a special place in their heart for La Belle and Le Beau. And as we know, the heart is never far from the nose.

Jean Paul Gaultier La Belle und Le Beau are available from now in the following sizes:

La Belle Eau de Parfum 100 ml / CHF 161.00
La Belle Eau de Parfum 50ml / CHF 118.00

Le Beau Eau de Parfum 125ml / CHF 120.00
Le Beau Eau de Parfum 75ml / CHF 89.00

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Jean Paul Gaultier

After the launch of AMBER MUSC in 2013 and ROSE MUSC in 2016, Narciso Rodriguez is launching a new fragrance to complement his Oriental Musc Editions this fall: SANTAL MUSC.

All three stand for pure luxury: addictive modern classics created through a masterful synchrony of East and West. Dedicated to discerning fragrance connoisseurs, I invite you to have a closer look:

AMBER MUSC (2013)

The quintessential fragrance. For centuries, the distinctive nature of both amber and musc have captured a sublime sensuality as scent dissolves into skin. Narciso Rodriguez melds the two iconic notes as one in this captivating Eau de Parfum Intense.

“The idea for the amber musc was to honor two great periods of fragrance with my own modern interpretation,” says Narciso Rodriguez, “and the results have been beyond my dream.”

The perfumer Aurélien Guichard synthesizes a golden balsamic accord with the smoky sweetness of oud wood, the illusive nature of incense and the lush smoothness of black patchouli to create a dusky palette. Narciso Rodriguez’s signature musc acts as a luminous counterpoint to this palette, softened by orange blossom.

ROSE MUSC (2016)

The poetic symbol of perfection in the annals of perfumery: rose, a most mythical ingredient. In both Eastern and Western culture, its rich yet delicate scent has served as the synonym of fragrance for over a millennium. For this creation, the world’s most iconic flower meets an equally iconic note, the signature musc of the famous designer.

“I was very passionate about the idea of creating a new fragrance using rose, the ultimate symbol of refinement, and musc, which is more raw,” says Narciso Rodriguez. “The process to find the precise scent was very challenging and I think we met the challenge.”

The perfumer Sonia Constant has obtained the supreme rose absolute for rose musc from Morocco. Golden saffron lends vibrancy to the top notes as a hint of labdanum adds a unique opulence to the heart of musc. Spicy black pepper and dusky patchouli further refines its intensity.

SANTAL MUSC (2017)

This new beautiful fragrance captures a discreet luxury that’s addictive by transcending boundaries. Narciso Rodriguez conceives a provocative balance of soft woody accords and bright florals with delicacy and nuance. Santal musc reinterprets the masculine-feminine with a sensuality both illusive and potent. It is a surprising contrast of deep warmth and silky softness.

“The santal musc was meant to be an entirely unique fragrance—very magnetic, very intriguing,” says Narciso Rodriguez, “I wanted to capture beauty and desire in a scent that both men and women would covet.”

Sonia Constant and Caroline Sabas create a transformative fragrance, bold yet enigmatic, with eclectic woody accords and floral notes.  The signature heart of musc is surrounded by sumptuous amber accords, sandalwood and vetiver heightened by fresh ylang flowers and a hint of cardamom spice.

Available as Eau de Parfum Intense for CHF 229.00 (100ml).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Narciso Rodriguez

During Paris Fashion Week, I attended the launch of Valentino‘s newest scent: VALENTINO DONNA. Dressed in a bottle adorned with iconic Rockstuds, it embodies all that is at once classic and contemporary.

On my way to the fragrance presentation in Valentino dots.

Luminous and sensual, the scent, features a contrast of subtle ingredients that, when combined, create something that is truly unique. Created with old oriental techniques and comprising top notes of bergamot with middle notes of rose essence and iris, the perfume finishes with the lasting aroma of leather, patchouli, vanilla and a white musk accord.

Antoine Maisondieu and Sonia Constant explain their inspiration for Valentino Donna.

Created by perfumers, Sonia Constant and Antoine Maisondieu, VALENTINO DONNA is mysterious, exquisite and timeless, like a couture object, making it the perfect addition to your fragrance wardrobe for the season.

The rose, that is especially Sonia’s fingerprint, is used as three different extracts. Rose Absolute, the purest quality of Rose Oil and natural Rose Water Extract, which is created with the help of a new technology at Givaudan. It is the first time it is used in a fragrance.

Eau de Parfum 100 ml (165 CHF), 50 ml (115 CHF) and 30 ml (82 CHF)
Shower Gel 200 ml (57 CHF), Body Lotion 200 ml (64 CHF) and Deodorant 100 ml (54 CHF)
In stores now.

Àstrid Bergès-Frisbey during the presentation at the Hôtel Salomon de Rothschild in Paris.

The face of the campaign is French actress Àstrid Bergès-Frisbey, who embodies the Valentino Donna in the film, directed by Louis Garrel. Italy’s cinematic history has played an important role in the creation of the movie. Inspired by films like ‘Roma’ and ‘La Notte’, the commercial is shot very well. Rome is the source of inspiration and the historic home of the House of Valentino. Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli design for a modern, but traditional woman, strong and sensitive, determined and caring. Have fun watching it below!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Valentino and © Sandra Bauknecht

Sparkling fashion label Swarovski launches a new scent for women, so-called SWAROVSKI EDITION. After the huge success of last year’s launch AURA, the brand presents its new delightful limited edition fragrance that will hit stores this month. The design of the bottle is reminiscent of the house’s clutch evening purses.

A fruity-floral fragrance created by perfumer Sonia Constant.

Top notes: Clementine and red currant jam
Middle notes: Wild rose and gardenia
Base notes: Cedar and musk

Available now as a limited edition Eau de Toilette 50ml (CHF 71.-).

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Swarovski