Sandra‘s Closet

Last Sunday, I flew from Belgrade where I had spent an amazing weekend with my girlfriends to Paris to attend the famous Le Dîner en Blanc (Dinner in White) that was originally launched with just a handful of friends by François Pasquier exactly 30 years ago. This gathering always takes place in one of Paris’ most prestigious locations, among them for example the Champs-Elysées, the Louvre museum, and the forecourt of Notre-Dame Cathedral. It brings together some 20,000 people, half of whom are from other countries, to dine at the same table.

Me at the meeting point waiting for the location to be revealed.

At the last minute, the secret location is revealed via text message to the participants who have all been patiently waiting to learn where Le Dîner en Blanc will take place. You meet at a certain point in the city and walk to the designated area which looks already spectacular as everybody is dressed up in all white.

Despite the green light for the traffic, people are walking to the designated area.

This Sunday, we gathered on green lawns with fabulous views of the Invalides, the gold-domed building that houses the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte and other prominent French figures. We all brought our chairs, tables with white tablecloths and the greatest decorum for this mass «chic picnic» in a public space.

People setting up their tables and decorations.

Having a great time with my friends, even that I had only slept 2 hours…!

There are no disruptions: no car traffic, no pedestrian traffic—only amazed and astonished looks from passersby observing the scene before them. Even the Parisian police continues to tolerate this «wild» gathering, if not perhaps even wishing they could join in! And participants, like spectators, wonder whether it’s all not a dream… for a few incredible hours, a special magic permeated the site and enveloped all in attendance, making everything seem more beautiful. Surrounded by thousands of twinkling little lights, a dazzling Eiffel Tower, we all enjoyed this exceptional Parisian evening.

Stay tuned for the outfit post coming up tomorrow…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

“White is the color of perfection” says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of Pantone Institute. No other color – and yes, white is a color – has the range of moods that white does. Produced by the combination of all the colors of the visible spectrum, it can be warm and embracing, crisp and clean, or change its character according to the time of day or the time of year. It is most often associated with innocence, perfection, honesty, cleanliness, the new, neutrality and lightness. Whatever your trajectory, this is your blank canvas to run with.

Get the look: Chain-embellished wool-blend felt coat by Victoria Beckham, sequin-embellished silk-georgette mini dress by Saint Laurent, Espey crystal-embellished elaphe box clutch by Kotur and Matilda sandals in white textured-leather by Givenchy.

CLINIQUE Aromatics In White

Clinique has dedicated its newest fragrance launch to the color white. A very interesting edition, a successor of the Aromatics Elixir classic. A sensual and powdery scent that offers strength and an unquestionable magnetism.

CHYPRE MUSK
Top notes: Violet Leaf Accord, Cistus and Sichuan Pepper
Middle notes: Rose Water, Orange Blossom and Patchouli
Base notes: Amber Gris, Musk and Benzoin

Clinque Aromatics In White is expected to make its appearance in most key markets now while in Switzerland supply is anticipated from January 15, 2015 exclusively at Marionnaud before other retailers will follow in March 2015.
CHF 105.00 (50ml) and CHF 78.00 (30ml).

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

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands and via http://bubbelsoda.tumblr.com

Start the season on the right foot with an all-white outfit. The non-colour has been seen head-to-toe on many S/S 2013 runways. But don’t think that you can stay with your average white cotton shirt that has been hanging forever in your closet. This summer, it is all about ruffles, laser-cut holes, panels, and stripes.

Slice and dice! Chloé has some of the most beautiful looks for summer and the house’s designer Claire Waight Keller spared no expense to come up with some gorgeous details. What might normally be just another ordinary crisp white jacket was sliced at the sleeves to give it a major point of difference.

Inspired by the Mercedes-Benz fashion film in which Karlie Kloss looks stunning in an all-white look from Chloé, here are some of the best pieces available at the moment. Sure investments in a season of style!

1 Appliquéd cotton-blend lace skirt

2 Drape-detailed cotton-jersey top
3 Woven panama blazer
4 Open-knit cotton-blend sweater

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Mercedes-Benz and via style.com

If you want to make an easy fashion statement, I suggest that you dress all in white.
No matter if it is off-white, pure white, a greyish white or with a pale pink undertone, the non-colour from head to toe looks impressive. The innocent shade itself brings elegance, sophistication and a certain nonchalance to your outfit.
Being an ultra chic alternative to all black, white for summer is always a must, having this crisp natural freshness to it. Above you will find the most beautiful runway looks for S/S 2011.

Bags, shoes and accessories in white are warm weather essentials and infuse every look with new season lightness.

If you don’t want to wait, white can also be a sensational winter choice. Match your clothes with similarly hued accessories to channel the directional runway styling.
Discover your inner snow bunny for the ultra A-list appeal.

All items are available now, just click on the designer name to start shopping:
3.1 Phillip Lim, silk flower and pleat-embellished dress, $875
3.1 Phillip Lim, belted cotton cardigan, $225
3.1 Phillip Lim, boxy coat, $895, on sale $626,50
Nicholas Kirkwood for Rodarte, platform patchwork sandals, $1645
Vera Wang, pearl medallion necklace, $795
Montse Esteve, rose ring, $2050
Chloé, Marcie large shoulder bag, $1320

To make sure that you have the perfect glowing eyes and skin, I recommend a killer new product line: White Caviar Illuminating Système by La Prairie.
The innovative three-part system works to reveal a brighter, clearer complexion, free of future age spots and pigmentation patches. A must for women of all ages who are looking to fight aging and skin discoloration.

La Prairie’s latest addition includes three products and truly works its magic:
White Caviar Illuminating Cream, 50ml, CHF 558.-
White Caviar Illuminating Serum, 30ml, CHF 558.-
White Caviar Illuminating Eye Serum, 15ml, CHF 310.-

I am using the eye serum at the moment. It is a great way to boost and re-energise tired looking skin, especially now during the cold season. As I am a very visual person, I also adore the beautiful packaging, white pearlescent jars with La Prairie’s signature silver caviar beads around the cap.
One drop of bitterness comes with this feast for your skin: The price! La Prairie is one of the most expensive collections on the market at present, well-known for using high-quality ingredients like the famous caviar extracts which might justify the exorbitant costs. To Swiss quality!

LoL, Sandra