Recommend Me a Perfume : August Indolence

Bois de Jasmin will return on Tuesday, August 27th, and today we have our “Recommend Me a Perfume” thread. Things are very quiet around Brussels, with most stores still closed for August vacation, and I’m likewise taking things slowly. The end of the summer always makes me feel melancholy, even though I won’t miss the way our apartment turned into an oven on any day warmer than 80F. Lately I’ve been alternating citrusy Thirdman Eau Nomade with warm Bulgari Omnia, both of which are terrific mood lifters.

My internet connection is intermittent this weekend, but I will join you in whenever I can.

cat-sun

How does it work:

1. Please post your requests or questions as comments here. You can also use this space to ask any fragrance related questions. To receive recommendations that are better tailored to your tastes, you can include details on what you like and don’t like, your signature perfumes, and your budget. And please let us know how your search goes and what you end up discovering.

2. Then please check the thread to see if there are other requests you can answer. Your responses are really valuable for navigating the big and sometimes confusing world of perfume, so let’s help each other!

To make this thread easier to read, when you reply to someone, please click on the blue “reply” link under their comment.

Photography by Bois de Jasmin, catching the last rays of sun

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451 Comments

  • Sandra: Yay! I love recommend me a perfume! I too am feeling melancholy with summer ending, but I love the Fall season here in NYC! When I was looking through my fragrance wardrobe one perfume scent I am lacking is any sort of Rose. My budget is less then or around 100 bucks. Other fragrances in my small collection to give you a sense of what I adore are: Bottega Veneta Eau Legere, Noa, Amour Amour, and eau des mervielles . Hope to find a great Rosé recommendation! Many thanks! August 23, 2013 at 8:16am Reply

    • Cornelia Blimber: Hi Sandra! You could try Cabaret (Grès) or Rose Absolue (Yves Rocher). Both good and not expensive. August 23, 2013 at 8:35am Reply

      • Sandra: Thanks so much! I really appreciate it 🙂 August 23, 2013 at 8:37am Reply

        • Victoria: P.S. Thinking further on roses that I wear, since you named all of my favorite fragrances. I like some straightforward roses, but I don’t wear them often, and I like when rose is mixed with something else. For instance, Quel Amour by Goutal is fresh, but it has a minty, green accent. And I second Cornelia’s recommendation of Yves Rocher. August 23, 2013 at 8:43am Reply

          • Sandra: Thanks a bunch Victoria! I will give some of these scents a try. I haven’t tried Stella, but it should be fairly easy to test at any department store. I am not sure I would enjoy a straight forward Rose perfume either, maybe something mixed as you suggested. August 23, 2013 at 8:52am Reply

            • nikki: Creed’s Rose du The Bulgare is a mossy rose scent of a pink rose in the morning dew, so very soft, almost girly and delicate. This is a true rose, but more a virginal rose, nothing like crushed rose petals. Hermes Jardin series Un Jardin sur le Toit has one of the best rose notes I have smelled so far, it is in the middle section of the drydown…it smells like the smaller size roses in bushes in the middle of a sunny garden. The flacon is divine as well: heavy glass in shades of green.
              I buy rose oils from Bulgarie and also Rose of Siwa, Egypt, from Eden, for the full rose effect, one drop is enough and I like putting it on fabric (dark fabric only) like the seam of my skirt. August 23, 2013 at 9:34am Reply

              • Sandra: Thanks Nikki! I will try Creed, I like the sound of girly and delicate and morning dew August 23, 2013 at 11:09am Reply

              • Felicia: My rose fragrace recommendation is Rose Oud by Illuminum. It contains Moroccan Rose in a smoky oud scent with honey.

                Truly wonderful and a nice transition into early Fall. August 23, 2013 at 2:03pm Reply

                • Sandra: I have never heard of that brand, is there a place where I can give this is a try? August 23, 2013 at 4:56pm Reply

                  • leathermountain: Yes, indeed. Bendel carries about half of the Illuminum fragrances now, and is set to carry the fully collection some time in September. I can’t recall exactly, but I think they’re pretty expensive. August 23, 2013 at 6:18pm Reply

                    • Sandra: Yes, I just checked the website, lots of $$ , but worth a sniff the next time I am near a Henri Bendel store August 24, 2013 at 8:35am

      • Jillie: Cornelia, Sandra, Victoria and Everybody who loves Yves Rocher’s Rose Absolue …. it is now discontinued!!! I don’t know how they could do this, but they have. It is no longer listed. Another favourite bites the dust. August 23, 2013 at 11:17am Reply

        • Sandra: Oh man 🙁 August 23, 2013 at 4:47pm Reply

    • Victoria: I read your note and thought “Atelier Cologne Rose Anonyme” immediately. It’s light and sheer, but it has a touch of ambery-leathery notes (just like Bottega Veneta and Hermes Eau des Merveilles). Also, have you tried Stella McCartney? Her EDT and some flankers are actually very good and reasonably priced. I keep recommending Stella, because it beats many of other much more expensive roses. August 23, 2013 at 8:37am Reply

      • Sandra: Ok Victoria- I tried Rose Anonyme and Stella, I think Stella maybe the winner… August 24, 2013 at 5:54pm Reply

    • 2046: a really affordable, nice rose is l’occitane’s rose 4 reines. it is very linear and straightforward-rose, but it’s also a nice scent to layer if it’s too much rose for you. August 23, 2013 at 9:11am Reply

      • Sandra: Ah! L’occitane is something I didn’t even think of! Thank you! August 23, 2013 at 11:06am Reply

      • Aisha: Victoria once recommended L’Occitane’s Rose 4 Reines to me when I was looking for a rose scent to wear, and I must say I love it. I bought their body lotion though, not their fragrance, because I wanted to wear the scent of rose after bathing at night. August 23, 2013 at 7:11pm Reply

    • Daniel Davies: How about trying Taif by Ormonde Jayne? I think it’s brilliant, as are some of their other scents. I noticed that people have mentioned Stella as well, and when I notice someone wearing that it always arrests me. August 23, 2013 at 10:19am Reply

      • Jillie: Ta’if is onne of my favourites, DD – it’s unlike anything else I have smelt, as it has such a richness to it. I crave it sometimes. I love it so much that I even bought the bath oil and body lotion. August 23, 2013 at 11:19am Reply

    • Terry Edwards Futrelle: My personal favorite rose scent… YSL’s “Paris”. So sentimental. Have a wonderful weekend, everyone. August 23, 2013 at 10:28am Reply

      • Aisha: My all-time favorite fragrance. 🙂 August 23, 2013 at 7:12pm Reply

    • Elizabeth: I tried a beautiful rose fragrance this week called Shanti Shanti by Miller et Bertraux. It was a very hot summer day and after I sampled it in the shop on my wrist, it bloomed in the most amazing way on my skin. I sniffed my wrist for the rest of the day. It’s costly, so I am not certain if I will by a full bottle, but certainly want to. You could Google and read more about it. I also like Stella McCartney original perfume rose fragrance. August 23, 2013 at 10:28am Reply

      • leathermountain: I’m pretty sure there’s a tester bottle of that at Aedes. August 23, 2013 at 6:20pm Reply

    • D: For a red high heels perfume, try the original
      Agent Provacateur- a sexy rose available at discounters for around $30.00.
      For a peppery rose, the discontinued Madness, is a great choice, if you can still find a bottle in the clearance section of on-line discounters. August 23, 2013 at 11:01am Reply

      • Elisa: Seconding Agent Provocateur!

        Another inexpensive rose that I like is Clarins Par Amour, which is fruity and woody. August 23, 2013 at 11:05am Reply

      • Patricia: Thirding AP! The rose/oud combination, though not original, is particularly well done. August 26, 2013 at 8:51am Reply

    • Dee: It’s funny that this is the first comment I saw today, because I bought a new rose perfume yesterday that I am in lurve with: Lush Gorilla Perfume Imogene Rose.

      I didn’t have huge expectations when I walked into the store, but this is a really beautiful blend. It start off with nice rooty vetiver and rose, and then it becomes powdery with ambrette, a smidge of tonka, and orris butter. It’s a little sweet but not candy-like at all, and there’s something old-fashioned about it while still being a really modern, interesting take on rose. The nose created it as a gift to his one-year-old daughter, so it is quite dreamy and soft.

      I love the natural oils it uses, because they are so different on everyone and really take you through a journey. And they last a long time on me. It’s just a lovely little number that cost me about $35. My husband usually doesn’t notice anything I wear (he is the worst perfume audience ever), and he sniffed my neck and told me I smelled great TWICE last night, which is really saying something. So, it gets the job done. August 23, 2013 at 2:11pm Reply

    • kate c: I love rose scents! And my current favorite is Rossy de Palma Eau de Protection by Etat Libre d’Orange. It’s a very sexy rose and within your budget August 23, 2013 at 2:16pm Reply

    • solanace: Seconding Rose Anonyme, it is pretty delicious. Also, Marni seems to have a rose note on its core, and it seems to be really nice and within your budget. (I haven’t tried it yet, since I live in Perfume Mordor.) August 23, 2013 at 2:23pm Reply

    • Lizzy: Hi Sandra! Rose is one of my favorite notes; I do enjoy it as a soliflore or mixed with other notes. Some of my current favorites are Rose Volupte by Sonoma Scent Studio (though their Rose Musc and Velvet Rose are also lovely), Briar Rose by Ineke, and A Wing And A Prayer Honeysuckle Rose. August 23, 2013 at 4:19pm Reply

      • Sandra: Thanks for your recommendations, excited to try some new rosé scents August 23, 2013 at 4:50pm Reply

      • leathermountain: Sandra, if you’d like to smell Briar Rose, I’d be happy to send you a sample. You can email me at a l e d e r b e r g atttttt hotttttmail August 23, 2013 at 6:22pm Reply

    • Morelle: You could buy the sample set from Les Parfums de Rosine, available on their website. 15 rose scents for 25€, no postage fee. Surely there must be some among them you would like.
      It’s a shame about the discontinuation of Yves Rocher’s Rose Absolue, such a beautiful (and affordable) scent! But surely it can still be found on Ebay. August 23, 2013 at 6:32pm Reply

      • solanace: Amazing suggestion! I’ve been having loads of fun with my Rosine sampler set. August 27, 2013 at 2:12pm Reply

    • Lavanya: I’ve been really enjoyed Marni by Marni- it is a rose incense on me. I find it charming and quite lovely! August 23, 2013 at 8:31pm Reply

      • Maren: I also enjoy Marni and bought a small bottle this summer, and it is very reasonable price. It is not a straight soliflore rose. I discovered that I love the light incense rose combo and find myself kind of craving it at times. A fun fragrance. August 25, 2013 at 11:07pm Reply

    • minette: hi. i love rose in my scents. here are a few i would suggest:

      patou enjoy (we tested this in a tv segment, and guys and gals who “didn’t like rose” or thought rose was “for older women” thought it was great. a rose for those who don’t think they like it.

      pacifica persian rose – a really good rose for a great price point – more sophisticated than you might expect.

      paestum rose – gorgeous dark rose with cold, wet incense – but a bit pricey.

      cabaret by gres – lovely, spicy rose that sparkles. available at discount.

      rose ancienne – can’t remember the make at the moment, but this is a really pretty rose.

      mpg rose opulente – a bit pricey, but really blooms on the skin, and keeps my interest all day.

      fm une rose, gorgeous, though pricey.

      creed fantasia de fleurs (and their rose scents) – this one is so vivid and alive and happy.

      coup de foudre is also a happy, sparkly rose scent – with lots of vetiver.

      maitresse by agent provocateur – very sexy, and not as hard to wear as the original, which is also great. (have found both at local discount shops.)

      lutens bas de soie is another of my faves – i think it’s quite sexy and sophisticated.

      good luck! rose is a wonderful scent, great for boosting your mood, and true rose oil is one of the highest vibrating scents on the planet. August 23, 2013 at 9:45pm Reply

      • sandra: Thank you so much! August 24, 2013 at 8:27am Reply

    • Bastet: Diva by Ungaro is a fabulous rose chyphre – a very rich and honeyed rose that I find myself reaching for more than my more expensive rose scents. A blind buy I do not regret, based on a review on this site! (Thank you.) Available at online discounters for very reasonable prices. August 24, 2013 at 9:02am Reply

    • maggiecat: The Body Shop has a couple of lovely rose scents, very inexpensive, with complementary bath and body products. August 24, 2013 at 9:18pm Reply

  • Elizabeth: Hello everyone! I am looking for a soft, dreamy rose perfume. Something that makes one think of old garden roses with scents so lovely you can almost glimpse the divine when you smell them. Yes, I know I am being melodramatic. But does a rose perfume like that exist? August 23, 2013 at 8:25am Reply

    • Victoria: Goodness, if you find it, please let me know!

      They may sound like the obvious suspects, but what about L’Artisan Voleur de Roses or Lutens’s La Fille de Berlin? August 23, 2013 at 8:39am Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: Or perhaps the rose in Santal Majuscule? August 23, 2013 at 8:42am Reply

      • Martha: Wearing La Fille de Berlin now. Lovely! August 23, 2013 at 10:56am Reply

    • Annikky: Elizabeth, have you tried Mohur? It may not have this rose garden feeling you are looking for, but it’s soft, intricate and pretty close to divine. August 23, 2013 at 8:52am Reply

      • Anne Sheffield: Have you tried eau de rose by diptyque? The best rose perfume for me! August 23, 2013 at 10:27am Reply

    • Kristina: What about Eau Suave by Perfums d’Empire? A lush green rose scent which evokes an English garden in all its romantic glory. The drydown is one of the best I have ever encountered in a frangrance! August 23, 2013 at 9:09am Reply

    • OperaFan: Elizabeth, Sonoma Scent Studio has two lovely roses that you may want to look up if not already – Rose Musc and Rose Volupte. Both are beautiful and true with an extra “something.” Velvet rose is more like a soapy rose.

      For Sandra – These are well within your affordability price range.

      My personal favorite rose is still Annick Goutal’s Rose Absolue (sorry – I’m a broken record on this topic). August 23, 2013 at 9:44am Reply

      • D: I agree on Rose Absolue. (I did not recommend it to Sandra, because I am unsure of whether it is within her price range, although the two I did recommend are also fine roses, they just each have a little twist). August 23, 2013 at 11:04am Reply

      • Elisa: I thought of SSS too — Laurie also does a soft rose-violet scent called “To Dream”! August 23, 2013 at 11:06am Reply

    • george: I go on about it but Portrait of a Lady always makes me think of the ending of the divine comedy where the universe is revealed to be one harmonious rose where god is everywhere at once and everything is subject to the same mathematics, and always joke to myself that Dante, Virgil and Beatrice could have saved themselves a journey up the purgatorial mountain and through the celestial rings by just unstoppering a bottle and sniffing it when they got to limbo (hell is of course worth seeing). It’s not so much a garden rose as a woody gourmand rose and it is expensive but for the divine vision, it is my go to perfume. La fille de Berlin I like as well. August 23, 2013 at 11:10am Reply

      • nikki: George, yes, I second Portrait of a Lady, a really fine dark rose fragrance more dry than voluptuous nothing nice La Fille de Berlin which is, and I mean this is in a good way, almost obscene in its middle phase, this is no country rose!
        I never felt the need to buy a bottle of Portrait of a Lady, but your remembrance of Dante makes me want to possess it! August 23, 2013 at 11:22am Reply

        • Cornelia Blimber: That Portrait must be a potent elixir! I must smell that asap—–who knows what I will see then…. August 23, 2013 at 2:44pm Reply

          • george: Cornelia, you must! In its own way it is an extreme perfume- only done with the most mainstream ingredients of rose, patchouli and fruit. I also think that with regard to Malle’s approach- using the highest quality of natural ingredients- it is Dominique Ropion’s style of feminine perfumes that really pays dividends (see also Carnal Flower) August 23, 2013 at 4:30pm Reply

            • Cornelia Blimber: Yes, Carnal Flower is gorgeous, together with Fracas the star of my collection.
              You encouraged me really to try this Portrait, although I avoid expensive perfumes these days: I want to buy Iris Siver Mist. I think the Portrait could seduce me! August 23, 2013 at 4:57pm Reply

              • Annikky: Reading your discussion, I just had to go and spray some Portrait of a Lady on my wrist. It’s a great scent, one of my favourite roses and one of my favourite Malle’s. The only thing (in the context of Elizabeth’s question) is that I wouldn’t call it soft… August 24, 2013 at 6:02am Reply

                • george: I agree; especially the opening. August 25, 2013 at 12:25pm Reply

      • Mel: (George, who ARE you? I love your comments!) I was walking through Barney’s in Beverly Hills a couple of years ago and caught the merest flutter of the most sublime scent – I turned a corner and the FM counter was launching Portrait of a Lady. It’s not something I would necessarily wear; but it is an altar and I would kneel. Ravishing. August 26, 2013 at 11:12pm Reply

      • solanace: Kudos for being so much fun (in the best possible sense), George! It’s a joy hanging out with you in perfume land. August 27, 2013 at 2:22pm Reply

    • Lucas: I think of Penhaligon’s Peoneve August 23, 2013 at 1:40pm Reply

      • Patricia: Peoneve is lovely, but sadly quite short lasting on me. August 26, 2013 at 8:54am Reply

    • Ariadne: Tea Rose by Perfumer’s Workshop is working for me lately as a classic antique rose garden kind of smell. The price is right too in the US! August 23, 2013 at 1:54pm Reply

    • E.Lime: I would suggest Diptyque’s Eau Rose, which is really luminous and sparkling. August 23, 2013 at 1:59pm Reply

    • Dee: Again, like I recommended to Sandra, I urge you to try Lush Gorilla Perfumes Imogen Rose, for all the reasons I listed above.

      It is a dreamy, puffball of a rose scent, with some powdery iris thrown in for good measure. I’m loving it, and it’s so inexpensive for the quality of rose oil you get. August 23, 2013 at 2:15pm Reply

    • rainboweyes: Coup de Foudre by Parfums del Rae? I’m not a big rose lover but this is my favourite rose focused scent. August 23, 2013 at 3:18pm Reply

      • Patricia: Thank you for reminding me of Coup de Foudre, rainboweyes. It was love at first sniff for me, with its beautiful citrusy opening, and I bought a bottle before my decant was used up. August 26, 2013 at 9:01am Reply

    • Karin: Maybe Delrae Coup de Foudre? August 27, 2013 at 7:05am Reply

      • Karin: Oh funny! Someone just recommended it to you. Well, I second it! 🙂 August 27, 2013 at 7:06am Reply

  • Cornelia Blimber: What a beautiful picture! I wish I could be like that cat! August 23, 2013 at 8:40am Reply

    • Victoria: I do too (except that I would probably not be comfortable on top of a car, which is where I found him)! Thank you, Cornelia. 🙂 August 23, 2013 at 9:53am Reply

    • leathermountain: Me, too. What a great pic. August 23, 2013 at 6:23pm Reply

  • 2046: hi all!
    i asked this on other fragrance forums recently, but i’d still love any other input on good osmanthus-heavy perfumes!
    currently i’ve tried: hermes osmanthe yunnan (gorgeous, but a little heavier on the tea than what i’m looking for), OJ’s osmanthus (too citrusy), fleurs d’osmanthus by keiko mecheri (more heady white floral than osmanthus).
    on my to-try list: parfums d’empire osmanthus interdite, TDC osmanthus, roger & gallet osmanthus, badgley mischka edp, la perla parfum prive.
    if anyone else has suggestions for me to try that would be most welcome! what i’d really love is a strictly osmanthus fragrance, but it doesn’t seem like there are too many scents where it stands on its own. August 23, 2013 at 9:09am Reply

    • 2046: p.s. victoria, i love that photo! pure, undistilled summer happiness. 🙂 August 23, 2013 at 9:39am Reply

      • Victoria: Thank you so much! Even the clicks of my camera didn’t make him (or her) budge. 🙂 August 23, 2013 at 9:48am Reply

      • Mel: I couldn’t agree w/ you more! If V’s photo was available as a postcard, I would buy it! August 26, 2013 at 11:14pm Reply

    • Caroline: Haven’t sampled yet, but SL’s Nuit de Cellophane is supposed to have noticeable osmanthus. August 23, 2013 at 9:39am Reply

      • OperaFan: The Lutens would be my recommendation as well. It’s a lovely osmanthus/floral blend. August 23, 2013 at 9:46am Reply

      • 2046: oh, thank you! i have only tried the wax sample of that, and it was very pretty, but i’m not sure how true the wax samples are to the real deal. will have to try the actual thing when i can. 🙂 August 23, 2013 at 10:15am Reply

    • Victoria: I definitely recommend trying The Different Company Osmanthus, but it’s on your list already. It’s citrusy though.

      Jean Patou 1000 is one of the best osmanthus rich classics. It’s a true symphonic perfume, lush and glamorous.

      by Kilian Good Girl Gone Bad is another osmanthus heavy blend I’ve tried recently and liked very much. August 23, 2013 at 9:53am Reply

      • 2046: thank you! i read that although the TDC osmanthus has a very citrus-y top, it dries down to a very realistic osmanthus… will have to try it! unfortunately, jean patou 1000 is too glamorous for me, and i have difficulty with animalic notes! i will definitely look for the by kilian too, though. August 23, 2013 at 10:18am Reply

        • Elizabeth T.: Agreed, out of all the fragrances you list TDC is my favorite, as it comes closest to walking by a cluster of Osmanthus fragrans. There was a “room” created by a wall of tea olives in the botanical gardens where I went to college, and to this day TDC’s perfume reminds me of that! August 24, 2013 at 9:52am Reply

      • Karin: Second Good Girl Gone Bad! Lots of osmanthus. Also Roberto Cavalli Oro! August 27, 2013 at 7:08am Reply

    • Marie: It’s not an osmanthus soliflore but Evening Edged in Gold by Ineke has a beautiful and very unique osmanthus opening and heart. August 23, 2013 at 1:37pm Reply

      • Lizzy: Seconding–Evening Edged in Gold is a gorgeous fragrance with a dominant osmanthus note. August 23, 2013 at 4:24pm Reply

      • 2046: thank you! i don’t think i’ve heard of ineke before, but that’s such a poetic name for a fragrance. 😀 August 24, 2013 at 6:43am Reply

    • Lucas: Try Parfum d’Empire Osmanthus Interdite and Viktoria Minya Hedonist.
      Eventually Roger & Gallet Fleur d’Osmanthus August 23, 2013 at 1:39pm Reply

      • 2046: hedonist is one i’ve been meaning to try out – thanks for the reminder! August 24, 2013 at 6:43am Reply

    • maggiecat: Hove’ Parfumeur in New Orleans has a Tea Olive scent many people swear by – tea olive =osmanthus. August 24, 2013 at 9:20pm Reply

      • Mel: I know it! The shop on Jackson Square is where I buy beribboned bundles of vetiver when I’m in New Orleans! August 26, 2013 at 11:15pm Reply

  • Carlisle: Hello, I too need some advice. The fragrance I wear everyday in the summer, Marc Jacobs Basil Splash, is now hard to find and very expensive, double its original purchase price. I find many citrus fragrances either too pricey for daily use, or too harsh, or both. Please help! August 23, 2013 at 9:14am Reply

    • Sandra: Have you tried Guerlain Aqua allegoria collection? They have some great citrus scents in their collection. I am not sure what is too expensive for you, but they sell this collection at Sephora for about 60 bucks, and other major department stores. August 23, 2013 at 9:22am Reply

      • Carlisle: I haven’t, but will have to try Pamplelune — thanks! August 23, 2013 at 10:40am Reply

        • Aisha: You should also try their Mandarine Basilic. I’ve been wearing that all summer as my everyday fragrance. I can definitely spell the basil in there and some citrus. It’s quite refreshing. August 23, 2013 at 7:16pm Reply

        • solanace: Be careful with this one, though. It’s as polarazing as a cologne can be, and certainly not to be bought unsniffed. August 24, 2013 at 4:40am Reply

          • solanace: polarizing, sorry! August 24, 2013 at 4:41am Reply

    • nikki: O de Lancôme is a fabulous citrus chypre with a divine drydown. Eau Sauvage is always good as is Vetyver by Guerlain. Manifesto by Isabella Rossellini has a pronounced basil note, you may want to try that if you can find it. I really like the Hermes Jardin series but it is quite expensive. 4711 of Germany just came out with a new line of refreshing eau de toilette in different notes: Riesling, Thyme, Lavender, Ginger, and Verveine, they are in big splash bottles so one can indulge and inexpensive. August 23, 2013 at 9:23am Reply

      • Carlisle: Thank you for many good suggestions – I hadn’t heard about 4711’s new line, which sounds very promising. August 23, 2013 at 10:41am Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: I second O de Lancome! not too expensive and really good. Also Roger et Gallet colognes are not expensive and good. August 23, 2013 at 10:46am Reply

        • Carlisle: I will definitely revisit O de Lancome and check out the Roger et Gallet colognes – many thanks. August 23, 2013 at 11:00am Reply

    • Cybele: try Hermes Jardin sur le Toit August 23, 2013 at 9:29am Reply

      • Cybele: and try Citrico by Comme des Garcons August 23, 2013 at 9:34am Reply

        • Carlisle: Thank you, I will try these. August 23, 2013 at 10:43am Reply

    • 2046: annick goutal’s l’eau du hadrien is a lovely, effervescent citrus! August 23, 2013 at 10:20am Reply

      • Carlisle: I have this, and I’ve always thought it was too citrusy. But after reading your recommendation I decided to give it a try and I must say, the drydown really is very nice, not overly lemony at all. So, thank you! August 23, 2013 at 10:56am Reply

    • irem: Have you ever tried Clarins Eau Dynamisante? It comes in large red bottles and is citrusy, herbal, slightly sweet, very refreshing and great for everyday. August 23, 2013 at 11:16am Reply

      • nikki: Yes, do try Eau Dynamisante~! The oval dark red glass bottle is gorgeous and it really makes one feel better and you can spray it all day long…sometimes you can get quite cheap at TJMaxx, they seem to have Clarins quite often. August 23, 2013 at 11:27am Reply

        • george: Eau Dynamisante- a great suggestion! A perfect citrussy herbally refreshener! and a great price too! August 23, 2013 at 11:37am Reply

          • Carlisle: Irem, Nikki and George: I’m not familiar with Eau Dynamisante but it sounds very promising – thank you! August 23, 2013 at 12:05pm Reply

            • Mel: It’s a great scent for flying coach in the summer. And I’m totally serious. Or for a day at a golf tournament. I would also recommend Herba Fresca. More mint than basil but the definition of refreshing! August 26, 2013 at 11:19pm Reply

    • george: They might fall under the too harsh category but Calvin Klein CKOne, Eternity and Contradiction (which is probably my favourite out of the three) are all relatively cheap citrus fragrances (contradiction and Eternity I have both worn). The Roger and Gallet line is worth exploring. The Guerlain cologne line is great and cheaper than one might expect. Diorella is a fragrance that might do the job in its current version as a floral citrus of great power. Happy for men is a synthetic orange that some people love. All worth a try. August 23, 2013 at 11:27am Reply

    • Lucas: You might also like ETRO Greene Street, it has a great basil note. Also Eau d’Italie Jardin du Poete is a great citrusy-green perfume but a little bit more pricey.

      For less money you can’t go wrong with Aqua Allegoria Herba Fresca August 23, 2013 at 1:38pm Reply

      • Carlisle: Etro’s Anice is one of my favorites, so I will definitely check out Greene Street – thank you! August 23, 2013 at 5:10pm Reply

    • Dee: Fresh has some nice citruses–Citron de Vigne, Hesperides, and even the original Sugar scent. One inexpensive way to try them out is to buy them in soap form. The bars are lovely, creamy, and big, and they are a really nice way to start the day. Plus, you’re not committed to a whole bottle but can kind of live with the scent for a while. Good luck! August 23, 2013 at 2:18pm Reply

      • Carlisle: That’s an excellent idea; delicious-smelling soaps are so luxurious and yet as you say, inexpensive. Thank you! August 23, 2013 at 5:11pm Reply

    • maggiecat: Try AA’s Laurier Reglisse if you can find it. Super refreshing and a great summer scent. August 24, 2013 at 9:21pm Reply

      • Carlisle: From the description (citrus, licorice) it sounds intriguing & just might be perfect – many thanks! August 26, 2013 at 9:19am Reply

  • Anne of Green Gables: Oh, I’ve been waiting for this because last July’s ‘Recommend me a perfume’ was a great success for me. I discovered many interesting perfumes and ordered samples from online websites for the first time. 🙂 I’d like to say thank you to all who posted recommendations for me last time.

    I can feel that summer is quickly ending here and the citrus and tea fragrances I’ve been enjoying so far would start feeling cold very soon. I would like recommendations for pefumes that are great for autumn (warm but not very heavy), possibly something with woods (sandalwood, cedarwood) and spices. I don’t want something too flowery or too sweet. Thanks in advance for your help. August 23, 2013 at 10:25am Reply

    • irem: To me, “woods and spices that’s not too flowery or two sweet” = Feminite du Bois (FdB) and its offspring. Since the original FdB is gone, I’d start with Bois de Violette. Granted, it has some (only some) violet sweetness, but you only said “not too flowery or too sweet”. The original FdB was not floral at all, and was sweetened ever so slightly with plum – like those barely sweet Japanese deserts.
      If you are not already familiar with FdB and its family, I’d say give it a try. It’s perfect for Fall – although one could also argue it’s “perfect” without any qualifier. August 23, 2013 at 11:09am Reply

      • Anne of Green Gables: Thank you for your suggestions, irem. I’m still a newbie so FdB and its breed are all new to me. I have one question. Is the current FdB from Serge Lutens much different from the original one? I’ll try to sample Bois de violette. Oh, the other one you recommended (Kenzo Jungle L’Elephant) also sounds very interesting. Love chai masala! 🙂 August 23, 2013 at 2:59pm Reply

        • irem: I cannot claim expertise to answer your question. I did not do a side by side comparison of both. I still use the FdB in the original Shiseido bottles, and have tried the Serge Lutens version in the rectangular bottle only in store. It definitely smells “like” FdB. I’ve read from many perfume bloggers (including Victoria) that it is not as good as the original. So I trust their judgement. August 26, 2013 at 10:00am Reply

    • Victoria: I immediately thought of my own favorite, Olfactive Studio Lumiere Blanche, which is a blend of sandalwood, soft musk and cardamom. Delicious and elegant.

      Another sandalwood favorite is Diptyque Tam Dao. It’s not heavy and has a beautiful drydown.

      If you want spices, then I would recommend Frederic Malle Noir Epices. On the opposite end of price spectrum, I would mention Pacifica Mexican Chocolate, a fun spiced blend. August 23, 2013 at 11:11am Reply

      • irem: I had Lumiere Blanche in mind too, but got carried away praising FdB and forgot it. I was also going to suggest Kenzo Jungle Elephant. I know some people find it incredibly heavy, but I think it is a very elegant spice concoction. Like a good chai masala with a good dose of cardamom and honey. Just the right thing for fall/winter. August 23, 2013 at 11:21am Reply

        • Annikky: Heh, I wanted to recommend both FdB and Lumiere Blanche, but too late 🙂 For me they work year round, but they are certainly very good for fall.

          If woods are not enough and you crave the entire forest – Ormonde Jayne Man and Woman. August 23, 2013 at 11:43am Reply

          • Anne of Green Gables: Hello Annikky, thank you for making me laugh. I’ll definitely crave for the entire forest at some point! 🙂 August 23, 2013 at 3:19pm Reply

      • Anne of Green Gables: Thank you, Victoria. I just read your review of Lumiere Blanche and it sounds very lovely indeed! Pacifica Mexican Cocoa sounds like the Choco Yogi Tea I enjoy very much. It’s very affordable but I guess it’s more difficult to sample it unless I order a full bottle online from somewhere. I don’t think I would be able to afford Frederic Malle (not yet ;-)) but I’ll sample it tomorrow (along with LB) when I visit one of the perfumeries in town. August 23, 2013 at 3:13pm Reply

        • Laurels: Pacifica had a set of five solid perfume samples of your choice for $12 shipped earlier this year, but I don’t see it on their site now. Maybe you could email them and ask about samples. August 24, 2013 at 2:12am Reply

          • Anne of Green Gables: Thanks for letting me know, Laurels. I’ll send them an e-mail. August 24, 2013 at 9:57am Reply

      • Michele: How is the sillage and staying power of Lumiere Blanche? August 24, 2013 at 7:26pm Reply

    • Cybele: Try Donna Karan Chaos, Hermes Voyage-I prefer the perfume version (black bottle), L’Artisan Safran Troublant and Marni.

      And second Bois de Violette and Noir Epice. August 23, 2013 at 11:25am Reply

      • Anne of Green Gables: Hello Cybele, thank you for your suggestions. I did a quick search of Chaos and it looks like it’s been discontinued. Is this true?

        I sampled a few of your recommendations from the last ‘recommend me a perfume’. I especially liked Carthusia Mediterraneo. August 23, 2013 at 3:26pm Reply

        • Hannah: Chaos has been reissued. August 23, 2013 at 3:28pm Reply

        • Cybele: Hi Anne, glad to hear you like Mediterraneo. As Hannah already posted, Chaos is available again in the tall black bottle and although reformulated smells very good. August 23, 2013 at 7:27pm Reply

    • 2046: i like hermessence santa massoia – the woods feel light and translucent, very nice for early autumn. also, guerlain’s cologne du 68 has a rather gimmicky premise, but really it’s an edt-strength beauty composed of a bright, citrusy-spicy opening that dries down to deliciously cosy guerlainade. a lovely scent in any weather!

      i’m in love with bois de violette, but it’s very sweet to my nose. i’m sure it’s just an issue of skin chemistry, though. August 23, 2013 at 11:33am Reply

      • Anne of Green Gables: Thank you for your suggestions, 2046. Just had a quick read about Santal Massoïa and it sounds like a wonderful comfort scent. August 23, 2013 at 3:33pm Reply

    • rainboweyes: Yes, summer is definitely coming to an end… you can literally feel the breath of autumn in the air, the nights have become quite cold…
      My comfort scent for autumn is Parfums d’Empire Equistrius, with its iris, chocolate and sandalwood notes it feels very warm and cosy. My other autumn staples include Heeley Iris de Nuit and Iris Silver Mist but I’m afraid you might find them too cold…
      I love Lumière Blanche too, but for me it is a summer scent 🙂 August 23, 2013 at 1:24pm Reply

      • Anne of Green Gables: Thank you, rainboweyes. You must be a real iris lover! August 23, 2013 at 3:40pm Reply

    • Lucas: Anne, Sonoma Scent Studio come to my mind. For example Tabac Aurea or Sienna Musk. Sienna Musk is awesome. August 23, 2013 at 1:35pm Reply

      • Anne of Green Gables: Hello Lucas, thanks for your suggestions. I wanted to let you know about the outcome of your last recommendation. I really like Jardin du Poete! I love all the spicy notes combined with freshness so thank you for recommending it. August 23, 2013 at 3:52pm Reply

        • Lucas: My pleasure, glad it turned out to be a hit! August 23, 2013 at 4:06pm Reply

      • Kris: SSS Champagne de Bois is lovely too. Glorious golden sandalwood with just the tiniest hint of aldehydes–just enough to make the opening sparkle. It’s like a cozy cashmere sweater in a bottle. August 26, 2013 at 10:49am Reply

    • Marie: Fendi Theorema is great for autumn: spicy and soft.
      Also second the Safran Troublant and Tabac Aurea recommendations! August 23, 2013 at 1:41pm Reply

      • Anne of Green Gables: Thanks, Marie. Is Theorema discontinued? August 23, 2013 at 4:00pm Reply

        • Marie: Sadly, it is. but you can still find it online and also in mini bottles (5 ml). August 23, 2013 at 5:46pm Reply

    • Austenfan: All the recommendations you have already had are excellent I add two of my own:
      Parfum d’Empire Wazamba, woods and apple. It sounds like a disaster but it’s actually quite wearable.
      A good summer to autumn transit scent might be Une Nuit Etoilée by Goutal. Do try the EdP. It is a much better scent.
      A woody scent that I like is YSL M7 although you might find it too masculine. I haven’t smelt the latest version though.
      I also like Divine’s L’Homme Sage.
      And apparently their latest L’Homme Infini is good too. August 23, 2013 at 1:52pm Reply

      • Annikky: I cannot compare the current M7 to earlier versions but I have tried the latest and liked it. August 23, 2013 at 4:03pm Reply

      • Anne of Green Gables: Thank you for your suggestions, Austenfan. Now I have a really long list! Sampling these will be my homework until the next ‘recommend me a perfume’. I wonder how long it’ll take me to be as knowledgeable as you are in perfume. 🙂 August 23, 2013 at 4:11pm Reply

      • Isis: Oeh I need to have some M7 now… August 24, 2013 at 10:08am Reply

    • AnnieA: Anne of GG, have a sniff of Jo Malone’s Dark Amber and Ginger Lily, which is a cozy sweater of a perfume. Alas that Parfumerie Generale’s Eau Rare Matale seems to now disappear on the skin, as that was a former autumn favourite. August 25, 2013 at 1:03pm Reply

      • Anne of Green Gables: Thanks, AnnieA. Just looked up Dark Amber and Ginger Lily on Fragantica and wow! It contains a lot of notes that I like so I should definitely try it. Ginger is so good for warming yourself up, whether you eat it or smell it. August 26, 2013 at 4:26am Reply

  • Priscilla: I love aromatics, greens, citruses. I just purchased four of the 4711 Acqua Colonias, and I especially love the Rhubarb & Clary Sage. So – I am hoping for some mainstream, non-niche recommendations (although niche is OK if it is cheap) for this type of fragrance. I do seem to be concentrating on unisex fragrances recently, but I think that is a result of liking aromatics. Does anyone have suggestions – even male fragrances would be OK unless they are too manly. August 23, 2013 at 10:30am Reply

    • Anne of Green Gables: Hello Priscilla, in case you haven’t tried it, I’d like to recommend Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Herba Fresca. It’s one of my favourites as it has a lot of mint in it (I know that some people hate mint in perfumes though). It very light and refreshing. August 23, 2013 at 10:48am Reply

    • Cybele: to me one of the best in this category is
      Jo Malone Lime Basil Mandarin. It’s citrus, dry herbs and some vetiver but neither too citrusy nor too manly. Just a very, very pleseant scent. August 23, 2013 at 11:20am Reply

    • AndreaR: I keep repeating this, but I do love Annick Goutal’s L’Eau du Sud, a basil and citrus cologne. Her Eau d’ Hadrian is softer, but lovely too. August 23, 2013 at 12:14pm Reply

    • Voxsusanna: Priscilla, it sounds as if my nose is much like yours but my skin chemistry differs (surprise, non?). I love citrus but cannot wear it; every genuine bright citrus I’ve tried on — bergamot, lime, lemon — turns to stinky plastic on me. Alas. My most-used go-to fragrance is Givenchy’s Vetiver, which gives me fresh, light, and simple every time. When I feel the need to warm it up, I layer it with something more amberine and/or gourmand. August 23, 2013 at 1:39pm Reply

  • Belle: Hello everyone! I’m trying to explore rose scents, but I really dislike powdery ones. Please do suggest some photo realistic roses without powder! Thank you! (: August 23, 2013 at 10:35am Reply

    • Victoria: Diptyque Eau Rose comes to mind, and also some roses that OperaFan mentioned earlier, Annick Goutal Rose Absolute and Rose Splendide. August 23, 2013 at 11:06am Reply

    • E.Lime: photo-realistic? Tea Rose, by Perfumer’s Workshop. Rose rose rose rose, and cheap, too! August 23, 2013 at 2:04pm Reply

    • Dee: There’s a fun line you can order on Etsy called Theme Fragrance. They do a really great job of making floral scents, and the packaging is kind of mod and colorful–not homemade-looking at all. They have one called Dancing in the Grass that is rose and some kind of fruit, I’m going to guess mango. It’s a playful take on rose, but to my nose it’s quite realistic and not powdery at all. The fruit kind of rounds it out without making it “sticky”. August 23, 2013 at 2:22pm Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: Chloe has a new rose scent, La Rose de Chloe.
        To my nose a bit too sharp and sprankling, but absolutely not powdry. August 24, 2013 at 12:02pm Reply

  • Jillie: Now that I have fallen in love with the Marius Fabre soap that you wrote about, Victoria, I was wondering if you or anybody else can recommend a perfume with that delicious Mysore Sandalwood effect? I can’t imagine that it contains the genuine stuff, but whatever it is, the result is wonderful and I now want to spray myself with it as well as wash with it. To me it is mellow and soft, none of that harsh, rasping feel of most sandalwood these days. August 23, 2013 at 11:27am Reply

    • george: Dries Van Noten is worth trying as a perfume that is stated as actually containing Santal de Mysore. Spray on fabric because the Sandalwood dry down lasts for days. I know what you meaning about rasping sandalwoods; sandalwood fragrances nowadays often have a buzz-saw like quality. August 23, 2013 at 11:33am Reply

      • Jillie: Thanks, George, that’s a good recommendation, and I will get a sample. I know it is hard now to get Mysore sandalwood, but I hear good things about the type they are growing in Australia. August 23, 2013 at 11:44am Reply

    • Victoria: Have you tried Serge Lutens Santal de Mysore? It actually contains real Mysore sandalwood.

      But I love Diptyque Tam Dao too. August 23, 2013 at 11:44am Reply

      • Jillie: Thank you! Will try!

        I think another reason for craving sandalwood is the hint of autumn in the air. Even though today is beyond hot again, last weekend there was a slight chill at night and a wisp of smoke from bonfires of leaves. The year is rapidly hurtling towards its end, and I predict that I want comforting scents now. August 23, 2013 at 11:58am Reply

        • Cornelia Blimber: What about Bois des Iles? Is that sandelwood from Mysore? In any case, a great woody perfume. August 23, 2013 at 1:17pm Reply

          • george: Santal Majuscule is also good if you want a subtle gourmand Sandalwood without the chanelification of BDI’s aldehydes and iris. August 23, 2013 at 1:46pm Reply

            • Cornelia Blimber: Chanelfication! Funny. I like the rose in Santal Majuscule, but in the end the perfume is a bit too sweet for me. August 23, 2013 at 2:52pm Reply

              • george: I know what you mean: it’s a bit of a sauce. August 23, 2013 at 3:47pm Reply

                • Jillie: Thanks, Cornelia and George! August 24, 2013 at 4:54am Reply

    • Merry Miss Chris: I am very fond of Ava Luxe’s Moksha. I find it an intriguing sandalwood with not too much else going on to detract from the wood. August 23, 2013 at 11:59am Reply

      • Jillie: Never heard of this, so that’s intriguing. August 24, 2013 at 4:55am Reply

    • Lucas: Jillie, the upcoming Neela Vermeire Creations Ashoka has a Mysore sandalwood, and it’s a real, natural essence used. August 23, 2013 at 2:38pm Reply

      • Jillie: Glad to hear about this, L. August 24, 2013 at 4:56am Reply

    • leathermountain: You can also buy some essential oil, put a couple of drops of it in 5 mL jojoba oil (or maybe fractionated coconut, I haven’t tried that one yet) in a roll-on, and wear the real thing, as is. It’s beautiful. August 23, 2013 at 7:42pm Reply

      • Jillie: Lovely tip, thank you Leathermountain. August 24, 2013 at 4:57am Reply

        • leathermountain: You are very welcome! It’s pricey, but I can recommend Enfleurage’s Sandalwood oil. Santalum album, Indonesia. We bought 2mL for about $25. Used in the way I described, that’s enough for multiple 5mL roll-ons (factor in the cost of the carrier oil and roll-on bottle, though). The resulting scent is quite potent, so we haven’t even made a dent in our first roll-on after several months of use. August 24, 2013 at 7:56am Reply

  • Gigi: Hello everyone! I’m hoping you can help resolve an inner (perfume) struggle for me…
    After many years, I’ve reignited a love affair with Chanel no 19, this time in the parfum version. I hear that the parfum is no longer sold in the US and I wonder how long it will continue to be sold here in Canada…also concerned how much it will be affected by IFRA regulations.
    So my question is, should I stock up against the apocalypse with it, or are my fears unfounded panic? August 23, 2013 at 11:43am Reply

    • irem: I cannot answer your question, but in case you decide to stock up I can speak from my personal experience that No 19 parfum sealed and stored away from light and heat keeps well. I had three bottles – one open and one sealed – which held very well over a period of over 5 years. Yes, even the open ones. Hope this is helpful, in case you decide to stock up.
      By the way, I love No 19 in perfume too, there is nothing quite like it! August 23, 2013 at 12:03pm Reply

      • Gigi: Thank you! That was one of my concerns, that it would turn before I ever got a chance to use it. With this reassurance, it really can’t hurt to get at least one back up, I do love it dearly! August 23, 2013 at 12:09pm Reply

      • irem: Sorry for the math, two open bottles which held very well for over 5 years. August 23, 2013 at 12:14pm Reply

        • Cornelia Blimber: I have a 15 years old No 19, opened, half full, still in excellent shape; don’t worry about that. If you love that perfume so much, stock it up, I would say.
          I had the same kind of panic in regard with No.5. Did not smell it in ± 2 or 3 years (emptied several bottles, thought it was too familiar). Alarmed by Ifra rumours, I sniffed it today (Edt) and was very disappointed. Recognized it hardly. Thin, fleeting.
          So please make sure you love the current No.19 before buying! August 23, 2013 at 1:25pm Reply

          • Gigi: Thanks to you too! That is very encouraging news. I’d suspect that the current version is a shadow of its former glory, and in a way I’m a bit grateful the current perfume version is the only one I’ve experienced so my life won’t be marked with regret. I’d grown up with the EDT but the perfume is new to me and with no memories to compare to I find it staggeringly beautiful. I will be at the store before the end of the day! Groceries be damned!
            Thanks for your comments, item and Cornelia! August 23, 2013 at 1:55pm Reply

            • Gigi: Sorry, irem, spell check strikes again! August 23, 2013 at 1:59pm Reply

    • george: Gigi, Can I add a couple of notes of caution?

      a, If the parfum has been affected by IFRA regulations, it is likely to have already happened (as the major reformulations have had to have happened by now) However, I would also think that as a perfume it is one that is less likely to have been that badly affected as it is very complex and also it doesn’t have a very heavy use of those key ingredients (to my knowledge) that have become most restricted (I’m not really that much of an expert on this, so if anyone can back me up or contradict me, please go ahead). I would also think it is likely to be safe from a major change as Chanel is one of the best companies for dealing these changes because of the complexity of its formulas and what I also think is simply effort.
      b, In the event of a formula change, which is likely to have already happened, you cannot go by what are the previous lifespans of your perfumes, to judge what will be their current lifespan. As Victoria has previously said (with some specific reference to Ellena’s work) she has found the lifespan of some of her perfumes as short as a couple of years, although this may well be based on an ingredient to which Ellena has a biased use. In short, reformulation can also potentially alter lifespan.
      Having said that, I think you are probably alright buying a bottle of no.19 parfum to store (though- like Cornelia- I would always suggest you try any perfume at any strength before buying another bottle, because of changes that can be potentially made) because I don’t think it will most likely have strayed too far from what have always loved in terms of smell but also lifespan. August 23, 2013 at 4:20pm Reply

      • Gigi: Thank you George for your input. I learned so much today! The anguish continues, but I know that I really did enjoy the perfume I just bought a few days ago, so probably relatively safe to guess that I wouldn’t be disappointed by buying a back up. That said, I may be bitterly saddened years from now when finally opened if this formulation does end up turning on me.

        Nonetheless, I think the likelihood of being discontinued in Canada isn’t insignificant, at least in perfume form so that it is worth taking the gamble.

        I am grateful for your input, though a little bit sad, it is good to know. All this IFRA, uh, stuff is certainly confusing for me as a consumer. So sad to me that I just started getting back into perfumes after a hiatus, just after all this has happened. That said, there are still many lovely fragrances out there, good to know that what could be decimated probably already has been. August 23, 2013 at 6:36pm Reply

        • Gigi: I’m hoping someone might be able to comment on this question (sorry I am a bit obsessed it seems): I tried checking checkcosmetic.net for the date of manufacture of the bottles I have now, and they say 2010. Do you know if this is really accurate? If it is accurate, would they be pre-recent-reformulation? It seems surprising to me that Chanel would be selling such old stock…thoughts? August 24, 2013 at 2:24pm Reply

          • Hannah: I tried to do it so see how old my M7 bottle is, and maybe I used the wrong number but it said July 2012. I bought it in 2011. August 24, 2013 at 5:42pm Reply

            • Gigi: I ended up asking Chanel directly. If they do answer, I’ll post whether their date matches. By your result, not looking very accurate! August 24, 2013 at 6:38pm Reply

          • george: There is a possibility that it hasn’t been or didn’t need reformulation. As you rightly point out, all this reformulation/IFRA stuff is confusing because we are all pretty much in the dark as to what the effect is on our favourite perfumes (and in this case whether it had any effect at all). You know what- with this one, it being Chanel ‘n’ all – I’d just relax and look forward to enjoying it. August 25, 2013 at 12:38pm Reply

            • Cornelia Blimber: I agree. Just follow your nose. August 25, 2013 at 3:58pm Reply

              • Gigi: Thanks again for your feedback. I went ahead and got a backup which put my mind at ease. Reformulated or not, it is lovely to me and hope to enjoy it for years to come. August 25, 2013 at 4:16pm Reply

  • Anne Sheffield: Bottega veneta might works well for you. Infusion d iris by prada is also a good automnal scent for me. Kisses August 23, 2013 at 11:55am Reply

    • Victoria: Anne, to whom are you replying? Please let me know, and I will move your suggestion to its proper spot, otherwise it will get lost. August 23, 2013 at 12:02pm Reply

  • Merry Miss Chris: While I have a large stock pile of very very vintage Balmain Vent Vert in different formulations, I am still looking for something similar that is readily available. I love galbanum and the shocking green, bitter-ish interplay of it with the florals in the old V V. delights me.

    Can anyone offer suggestions? I wear fragrances marketed to men and women.

    Thank you. August 23, 2013 at 11:58am Reply

    • irem: To my humble nose, Untitled from Maison Margiela has that interplay of shocking green and floral undercurrent. You might want to give it a try. It’s very modern though. I find modern fragrances quite different in feel from vintage ones. Different aesthetics. No 19 has the green galbanum of course, and the history. Although the orris makes is plusher, esp in parfum, the EdT has still some pronounced green bitterness. August 23, 2013 at 12:12pm Reply

      • Sandra: I’ll second that suggestion. I tried Untitled about a year and a half ago. It’s one of the greenest scents I have ever experienced – like a crushed leaf or a snapped pea pod when first sprayed then almost a cocoa note, finally musk and incense. If you like Chanel Cristalle, you may well enjoy Untitled. I think of it as Cristalle’s edgier cousin! Also, Hermes Eau de Gentiane Blanche or Eau de Narcisse Bleu are both quite bitter and green to start. August 23, 2013 at 10:29pm Reply

    • Caroline: Not sure how much longer it’ll be readily available, but Jean Louis Scherrer is a fabulous galbanum-y green. Beauty Encounter has it for a reasonable price. See Victoria’s review, if you haven’t already. August 23, 2013 at 1:35pm Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: I second JL Scherrer. Also Fidji (Laroche) is a very vivid green. But there’s nothing like Vent Vert. August 23, 2013 at 1:50pm Reply

    • E.Lime: Le temps d’une fete has that interplay between galbanum and floral; I’d snag a bottle now if you’re interested, since it is soon to be ask-only availability, as Victoria found out for us! August 23, 2013 at 2:07pm Reply

    • Theresa: To my (inexpert) nose, Chanel’s Bel Respiro smells similar (at least in the opening) to my 1980’s bottle of Vent Vert. Good luck and let us know what you find, as I too crave more of that kind of smell! August 23, 2013 at 3:58pm Reply

      • Merry Miss Chris: Thanks to everyone for the suggestions. I have the Scherrer and forgot about it, so that’s immediate gratification. I also forget about my stash of vintage Chanel #19, so that will be rectified, too.

        You gave me some good suggestions that are new to me. *tips hat in appreciation* August 23, 2013 at 4:38pm Reply

    • leathermountain: Would Jacomo Silences fit the bill at all? I don’t know Vent Vert (except what’s in today’s testers, and even that, not very well). August 23, 2013 at 7:46pm Reply

      • Jillie: Leathermountain, I love the green-ness of Silences, but haven’t smelt its latest incarnation. August 24, 2013 at 5:02am Reply

        • leathermountain: The current one is the only incarnation I know. It’s green, alright! I love it. August 24, 2013 at 7:57am Reply

    • Elisa: I think Safari is a must try if you like galbanum. It’s a very rich green floral by Ropion. August 24, 2013 at 9:09pm Reply

  • Piper: Hi everyone! I have been constantly sampling and searching for a new perfume for MONTHS. I have come close a few times, but have yet to pull the trigger. Wondering if any of you have suggestions based on a few of my favorites (note: I tend to like notes of musk, violet, linden, blackcurrant, cedar, orange blossom):
    L’Artisan L’Ete en Douce
    Keiko Mecheri Genie des Bois
    Diptyque L’Ombre dans l’Eau (and Olene)
    L’Artisan Seville a l’Aube
    Cartier Baiser Vole EDP August 23, 2013 at 12:00pm Reply

    • Marie: Try Blackberry and Bay by Jo Malone, it’s actually similar to L’Ombre dans l’Eau but with more blackberry and less rose.

      Good luck! August 23, 2013 at 1:47pm Reply

      • 2046: seconding this – i have blackberry and bay, and it’s lovely. August 24, 2013 at 6:46am Reply

    • Nadja Sand: Perhaps you would enjoy Sonoma Scent Studio’s Wood Violet, Vagabond prince Enchanted Forest or Olympic Orchids A Midsummer Day’s Dream. August 24, 2013 at 7:41pm Reply

  • solmarea: Any recommendations for a sultry, sensual fragrance {like luring a lover, or a briefly intense, dizzying, enticing intimacy} would be beautiful. My skin suits headier, scents, disliking powders. August 23, 2013 at 12:28pm Reply

    • Lucas: If you want something big and super feminine, 3 Fleurs from Parfum d’Empire might do the trick.
      Sultry – maybe Musc Ravageur? August 23, 2013 at 1:32pm Reply

    • E.Lime: For sultry in the heat, SL Fleurs d’oranger is quite sweet with a sensual note of cumin. It’s the “bombshell” perfume in my little wardrobe.
      I’ve never tried Putain des Palaces, but that is marketed as a boudoir kind of seduction scent…
      And this one is quite different, but Miller Harris L’air de rien is one of my new favorites, and it seems to have some notoriety for smelling a bit like a roll in the hay. August 23, 2013 at 2:11pm Reply

      • george: Fleur D’Oranger is a great suggestion. August 23, 2013 at 2:43pm Reply

        • Annikky: Absolutely agree. And if you haven’t tried it yet, give Fracas a go, too. August 24, 2013 at 5:53am Reply

    • Dee: Try Lush Gorilla Perfumes “Lust”! I tried it yesterday, and it was a very heady, sweet jasmine and orange blossom blend that I sort of regretted not buying. It is definitely sexy and lasted forever. I sprayed one tiny little bit on my wrist, and it filled whatever room I walked into for the rest of the night. Definitely a little dangerous! August 23, 2013 at 2:25pm Reply

      • george: Lust is a really heady jasmine: it might be just what you looking for. August 23, 2013 at 2:46pm Reply

      • leathermountain: Dee or solmarea, if either one of you is not especially particular about sharing solid perfume with strangers…. I was recently given a partly-used LUSH Lust solid. I cleaned it up a bit, tried it on, and found the scent overwhelming for me. I am looking for a good home for this, rather than the landfill. I just sliced off a centimeter or so and called it a day. Maybe one of you would like to do the same? You can email me at a l e d e r b e r g atttttt hottttttmeil August 23, 2013 at 7:50pm Reply

        • Dee: What a nice offer! I’d love it, but I am afraid it will melt all over my mail box in this heat! August 25, 2013 at 1:08am Reply

      • Belle: Totally agree on that! I tried it with one good spray, and it gave me an aura of jasmine. God knows what two sprays will do!

        And if it helps, it smells exactly like Jasmine sambac to me. August 24, 2013 at 4:32am Reply

    • Cybele: Ambra di Venezia comes to mind or maybe Fleur de Cassie August 23, 2013 at 3:16pm Reply

    • Marie: What about By Kilian Sweet Redemption? It’s a golden Orange Blossom-Vanilla-Incense fume, perfect for summer and winter alike.

      On my skin, SR has a nice sillage, almost personal. It’s a good “hug” perfume. August 24, 2013 at 9:34am Reply

    • Isis: Maybe Tom Ford Black Orchid is worth checking out? I find it ultra ultra sexy. August 24, 2013 at 10:04am Reply

    • solmarea: I’m unsure where best to reply, but thankyou to all for the fragrance recommendations. August 26, 2013 at 11:02am Reply

  • Kelly4: Hi, I’m looking for a soft, sheer, easy to wear grown up vanilla fragrance. I would like to stay around a hundred dollars or less please. I have always been a floral kind of girl but lately craving a vanilla comfort type scent. Thanks in advance for any suggestions. August 23, 2013 at 1:12pm Reply

    • Hannah: Les Nereides Opoponax isn’t a vanilla scent but it has the similar characteristics (warm/sweet/soft/comforting) and it does have vanilla in it. It is $70/100ml.
      And since there was a lot of talk about Tonka Vanille on here yesterday, I tried my sample. It’s nice. $52/30ml.
      La Maison de la Vanille at Luckyscent has fragrances for $60/100ml but I’ve never tried anything. The reviews are good. August 23, 2013 at 1:24pm Reply

      • Kelly4: Thanks Hannah. I will seek these out. Have you ever tried Diptyque Eau Duelle? Was wonderding about that one to. August 23, 2013 at 1:32pm Reply

    • rainboweyes: What about Vanille Incensée by Atelier Cologne?
      I’m not sure about the price, though… August 23, 2013 at 1:29pm Reply

      • Lucas: I second Vanille Insensee, just bought a bottle for my Mum. The huge bottle is 120€, but there are smaller (100 and 30ml) sizes available August 23, 2013 at 1:33pm Reply

        • Kelly4: Thanks Lucas. I hope you had a great vacation. I will definitely be checking this one out. August 23, 2013 at 1:41pm Reply

      • Kelly4: Thank you rainboweyes. I always read great things about Atelier. I will try this one too. August 23, 2013 at 1:36pm Reply

    • Dee: One of the nicest grown-up vanillas I’ve worn in quite a while is a perfume oil from an Etsy shop called Firebird. Her “Vanilla Amber” is a blend of vanilla, amber, coconut, cardamom, and sandalwood that is sweet without being cloying and soft without being overly powdery. I was really surprised with how much I liked it, and I ended it up giving as a gift to my sister-in-law, who designs high-end wedding dresses in New York. And she told me recently it’s her new signature scent. You can order samples from the shop or try it out in soap form, which is also quite nice. August 23, 2013 at 2:29pm Reply

      • Kelly4: Thanks Dee, wow this sounds really good. I’m going to go on the web site and get some samples. I really like amber and sandalwood too. August 23, 2013 at 3:21pm Reply

        • Dee: It’s a nice little company. I love their Saltwater scent, too. August 24, 2013 at 2:51am Reply

    • Lizzy: I would suggest the Lavanila line of fragrances; they’re not terribly complex (they all share the same vanilla base) but I find many of them to be comforting–Vanilla Passionfruit and Vanilla Grapefruit are my favorites but all their scents are worth testing and the minis/rollerball sizes are quite affordable! August 23, 2013 at 6:46pm Reply

      • Kelly4: Thanks Lizzy. I saw that my local Sephora carrries this line. I will definitely check these out. They are priced really affordable too. August 24, 2013 at 1:36am Reply

    • Isis: I really enjoy Annick Goutal Vanille Exquise. I am not sure that its sheer, but I do feel that its all grown up. August 24, 2013 at 10:01am Reply

  • Lucas: That lazy cat makes me want to laze away too!

    I’ve just returned from my vacations in Hungary couple of days ago. I still have one more month before new university year starts so we’ll see what might happen in the meantime.

    Would you please recommend me a nice autumny/wintery incense. I’m not much into this note but I really fancy CdG Kyoto and Durbano Pink Quartz. A soft suede fragrance would be nice too (I’m thinking I might like the upcoming Bottega Veneta Homme) August 23, 2013 at 1:31pm Reply

    • leathermountain: Have you smelled Tiziana Terenzi Ecstasy (for the wintry incense — and a ton of patchouli).

      What’s the difference between suede and leather fragrances?

      Not long ago in a department store I smelled Gucci Pour Homme II, and it felt like soft leather and iris. It was great! But I’ve never worn it. August 23, 2013 at 7:53pm Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: Suede perfumes are softer. It’s the difference between Serge Lutens Cuir Mauresque and Daim Blond (suede).
        A nice suede smell: Gomma (Etro). August 24, 2013 at 1:17pm Reply

    • Jillie: Lucas, have you tried Etro’s Messe de Minuit? I can’t make up my mind about it, and I only have the pre-reformulation version so I don’t know what it’s like now. To me it’s a sort of candied incense, not the astringent smell of something like CdG’s Avignon, but more comforting. Definitely one for the colder months. August 24, 2013 at 5:09am Reply

      • Jillie: I’ll send you a sample as soon as some family issues are better! August 24, 2013 at 5:11am Reply

        • Lucas: Thank you Jillie! I hope it’s not any serious family issues you mentioned (hug) August 24, 2013 at 1:52pm Reply

      • Martyn: Hi Jillie. Not sure where you are, but I’d love a sample of the original MdeM if you’d send me one. I’d happily pay shipping etc. I have the updated version and think it’s very good (see my reply to Lucas, below), and would really like to make a comparison. August 24, 2013 at 8:00am Reply

        • Jillie: Martyn, it would be a pleasure to send you a sample of MdeM! Please email me at the following (spambot-proof version I hope) address with your details:
          jillieh at btinternet dotttt commmm.

          No shipping required (it won’t weigh much). August 24, 2013 at 11:35am Reply

          • Martyn: Thanks very much. Email on its way! M. August 25, 2013 at 6:47am Reply

    • Martyn: Hi Lucas – not sure if we have spoken about this before, but I recently embarked on a search for an incence-based fragrance. I tried a sample provider here in England who not only sent me a dab bottle of Etro’s Messe de Minuit, but also very kindly enclosed some freebies:
      • Comme des Garcons’ Quarzazate, which CdG describe as Incense, Pepper, Nutmeg, Clary Sage, Wenge, Musk, Vanilla, Labdanum, Absolute, Kashmir Wood
      • The eponymous Juozas Statkevicius, by Fabrice Pellegrin
      • Le Labo Vetiver 46
      Of the freebies, I like the one from Le Labo best; the others are a little sweet for me, but this one has that slightly decaying note of church incense and I like it.
      However, although people say that Messe de Minuit is now a shadow of what it used to be, I – who have nothing to compare it with – think it’s terrific. Not much in the way of sillage on me, but as a personal fragrance, once dried down a bit, it is magic. August 24, 2013 at 5:26am Reply

      • Lucas: Hi Martyn, thank you for your suggestions. I will try Messe de Minuit thanks to Jillie and when I’m in a boutique I will give a current version a sniff as well. August 24, 2013 at 1:54pm Reply

    • Annikky: Hi, Lucas!

      I’m pretty sure you have tried Trayee? Incense can occasionally be difficult for me, but here it works.

      For suede – Naomi Goodsir Cuir Velours and Keiko Mecheri Cuir Cordoba. August 24, 2013 at 5:50am Reply

      • Lucas: Yes, I know Trayee but it worked on me the least of the India trio from NVC. I liked Bombay Bling the most and Mohur the 2nd.

        The new Ashoka is utterly gorgeous.
        I tried Cuir Velours in the past, I liked it but didn’t find it FB worthy, same goes for Cuir Cordoba. August 24, 2013 at 1:55pm Reply

    • Mel: Hi Lucas. I love Kyoto although V made me love Avignon more. Have you tried Andy Tauer’s Incense Extreme? August 26, 2013 at 11:26pm Reply

  • Wendy: solmarea… I recently have been trying out Lys 41 from Le Labo and I am smitten…it feels like sultry and sensual personified to me. There is an amazing white floral blast of lily, jasmine and tuberose that are seductive and gorgeous to me but never cloying and all this flowery goodness is grounded with a soft woodsy, musk base with a hint of vanilla. This is my newest favorite scent and seems perfect for the tail end of August… August 23, 2013 at 1:44pm Reply

    • annemariec: Wearing it today, and it is spring (almost) where I am. Love it. I especially love the joyful opening. August 23, 2013 at 7:22pm Reply

  • yaz: hello everyone – i’ve been looking for a perfume i’d love for years and years. i’ve used coco mademoiselle and nina by nina ricca before but didn’t really love either.
    what i’m absolutely IN LOVE with is the dry-down of cool water for men (as well as davidoff adventure) but i find them a bit too masculine to wear myself. could anyone suggest something similar but a bit more feminine? thanks in advance! August 23, 2013 at 1:59pm Reply

    • Dee: I’m not familiar with the drydown of Cool Water for men, but my guess is that you’d like something aquatic with a little spice…? One that I enjoyed a few years back was “I Love Love” by Moschino. (The one in the Olive Oyl bottle!) It’s very citrusy, sort of like Light Blue in the beginning, and then it has some redcurrant that makes it a little sweeter and chewier–like what you might enjoy in Coco Mademoiselle. The drydown is cinnamon and cedar, which is a little like the masculine scents you enjoy, but the fruit keeps it feminine. Good luck! August 25, 2013 at 1:16am Reply

  • E.Lime: Just curious: are there any fans of L’air de rien here? If so, what other perfumes do you group it with? To me, it smells like a darker, moodier Dzing… maybe the circus after all the lights are turned out and everyone’s gone home. I read that L’ombre fauve might appeal to me for similar reasons as L’air (that smell that registers as funky animal fur in Dzing and L’air for some is quite cozy and sweet on my skin). Any thoughts? August 23, 2013 at 2:13pm Reply

    • Cybele: Hi there, although I rather dislike (sorry) L’Air de Rien, I suggest you to smell Le Labo Oud 27, Yatagan, Ormand Jayne Woman.

      You might also enjoy Rien by ELO, Musc Ravageur, Mona di Orio Musc, Musc Nomade, Safran Troublant. August 23, 2013 at 2:56pm Reply

      • E.Lime: No worries–I know not everyone likes it, and I’m surprised the animal smells work for me, honestly. But everyone has just said they smell like spice or incense on my skin, never elephant droppings (luckily!). All of these are new to me except Safran (which I liked, but found too light), so thank you! August 23, 2013 at 11:59pm Reply

        • Cornelia Blimber: Maybe you could like the sombre beauty of Royal Saffron by Bella Bellissima. August 24, 2013 at 4:42am Reply

      • Cybele: of the above Oud 27, Rien and Yatagan have some skank to them and I really love all three. Musc Nomade has some dirty notes too. I mentioned Ormond Woman because to my nose it has a similar ambery hay effect similar to L’Air – minus the stink – but you might like it. August 24, 2013 at 4:28pm Reply

    • Elia: I can see no similarities between L’Air de Rien and Oud 27, Yatagan, or Rien by ELdO.
      In fact it’s hard to think of two more dissimilar scents than Oud 27 and L’AdR.
      Labdanum 18 on the other hand is closer, with a more challenging animalic opening, but surprisingly by dry down equally as sweet as L’Air de Rien. I prefer Ladbdanum 18.
      L’air de Rien also has a rather pronounced neroli undercurrent and for a more off ball suggestion I’d recommend Terre de Sarment which has a wonderful neroli/orange blossom undercurrent. August 29, 2013 at 4:16pm Reply

      • Elia: Oh and MKK as well, although it’s quite top heavy on civet, so you’d have to like some civet. August 29, 2013 at 4:53pm Reply

  • Eva S.: Hello everyone!
    I am looking for a real comfort scent for autumn.
    You know, like a favorite cashmere sweater, a cat in the lap, a ride in the morning when the grass is wet and the air is chilly…
    Any suggestions?
    Iris Poudre by Fredrick Malle?
    Balmain Ivoire? August 23, 2013 at 3:59pm Reply

    • Victoria: Iris Poudre would be my choice as well as Kenzo Flower. Last year we had a thread helping Anne find a cashmere wrap like perfume, and you might find several recommendations there too.
      https://boisdejasmin.com/2011/11/your-favorite-comforting-cashmere-wrap-fragrances-winter-perfumes.html

      But one more suggestion would be Cacharel Noa, which I find powdery, cozy, not too warm or heavy though. August 23, 2013 at 4:22pm Reply

    • Bastet: Champagne de Bois by Sonoma Scent Studios is a wonderful fall comfort scent – warm, spicy, a little sweet with a rich woody (sandalwood) drydown. August 23, 2013 at 5:22pm Reply

    • Jillie: I second V’s recommendation for Noa. I discovered it through her, and find it delightfully comforting in a very light, pashmina sort of way! I am typing this with a cat in my lap …… August 24, 2013 at 5:16am Reply

      • Eva S.: Noa sounds delightful!
        But I worry a bit about the coriander note… August 27, 2013 at 11:03am Reply

        • Victoria: It really doesn’t read as such. The marketing calls it coriander, but in all honesty they could have said green mandarin and it would have worked just as well. I get more of a citrus rind effect than cilantro out of Noa, and even so, that part is fleeting. August 27, 2013 at 11:07am Reply

          • Eva S.: Thank you Victoria!
            I will definitely try it! 🙂 August 27, 2013 at 3:41pm Reply

    • 2046: i tend to like warm, sweet scents for fall – hermes’ amber narguile is so delicious and comforting to me. August 24, 2013 at 6:52am Reply

      • Isis: I love Ambre Narguile in autumn too. I usually layer it with a little bit of paprika brésil. August 24, 2013 at 9:57am Reply

      • Eva S.: I love Jour d’Hermes, so I might try Ambre Narguile! The notes sounds very comfoting and cosy…. August 24, 2013 at 11:28am Reply

    • Cybele: Coromandel August 24, 2013 at 9:19am Reply

    • Elia: I’d not call Balmain Ivoire a cashmere sweater… I’ve not tried the new one, but vintage Ivoire is raspy and loud.
      I thought of Ambre Precieux, no wet grass though. August 29, 2013 at 4:26pm Reply

  • Isis: Hello everyone! First of all, I want to thank everyone who was so generous with their advice on the previous Reccomend Me a Perfume.. I was looking for the perfect perfume, and while I haven found it yet, I do have a very exciting lists of perfumes I will sample in the months to come, and – thanks to Annikky and Elena – I am wearing Fleurs d’Oranger today, which is absolutely delicious and which does sort of make me a bit feel less heartbroken over the discontinuation of Gucci Eau de Parfum.
    Today I have another question. I don’t seem to be able to appreciate rose notes in perfume. I often find them too sweet and sirupy, or too light and innocent. Now the weird thing is that when I smell and actual rose, their smell doesn’t excite me at all. But I use a rose bodyoil by Weleda (they say it is wild rose or ‘rosa moschata’), and I adore it. It made me wonder what ‘rose’in perfumery really is made of. Is it like with the orange tree: one plant making for a lot of different perfume notes? August 23, 2013 at 4:47pm Reply

    • Annikky: So glad to hear that you are enjoying Fleurs d’Oranger! It is a great scent – I don’t have my bottle with me at the moment and as soon as I saw your comment, started missing it. Thanks for reporting back. August 24, 2013 at 5:07am Reply

      • Isis: You mentioned that it melts into your skin, and I completely get what you meant, it does that for me too. It is funny because FdO has a big presence, but I really love that it at the same time gives me a very intimate my-skin-but-better-thing aswell. Really very fascinating. August 24, 2013 at 8:31am Reply

        • Annikky: Yes, yes, yes. You know, it’s so nice sometimes to have these similar experiences with someone. Because perfume is so personal and scents can be perceived so differently, I often wonder if I’m smelling a different scent or whether my nose is just totally useless. I do realize that this variety of responses is exactly what makes perfume so fascinating and I’m not complaining – it’s probably also the reason why it feels special to find someone with similar taste. August 25, 2013 at 5:14am Reply

  • Nadja Sand: Hi people! I am in the mood for something truely animalic! Yeah, something scandalously skanky!! I love my sample of vintage Bal a Versailles and would love to find more in the same vein! Most of the animalic scents I have tried lately are more fecal -skanky than sex-in-a-bottle-skanky and I am inte the mood for something carnal right now! ;D August 23, 2013 at 6:07pm Reply

    • anonymous: I’ve never smelled vintage Bal a Versailles (or vintage much of anything, actually) but here are a few that I love and call funky, skanky, animalic, and/or carnal:
      -Mona di Orio Eau Absolue (skanky warm citrus, I kid you not)
      -Bandit (no words)
      -Jasmin et Cigarette (like the Eau Absolue, it smells so bad, why is it so good?)
      -Sonoma Scent Studio Tabac Aurea (it’s just that the intensity of the tobacco is so compelling)
      -and, for me, Sel Marin — it’s mineral/marine, yes, but the association is dried sweat on vacation August 23, 2013 at 8:06pm Reply

      • Nadja Sand: Thanks for your suggestions! You really should try to get your hands on some vintage Bal a Versailles! It’s an experience!!

        Several ofn the scents you mention are ones that are allready on my list of things to try, Bandit, Jasmine et Cigarette and Tabac Aurea! I actually have just ordered a sample of Tabac Aurea. I love tobacco scents, but I have never really considered them skanky…

        Citrus and marine scents scare me a bit, it’s just not myt style… But if they are sufficiently dirty, I guess I could enjoy them! I’ll check it out! August 24, 2013 at 5:09am Reply

        • leathermountain: Where would you find vintage Bal a Versailles? I am so confused about purchasing vintage perfume! How on earth would you know what you’re buying? August 24, 2013 at 7:59am Reply

          • Nadja Sand: I bought my vintage Bal a Versailles on Etsy. There are several sellers there that specialize in vintage perfume and one of them offers small decants really affordably! It’s a great way to try out old classics! The old stuff really is so high quality!! Top notes are usually quite degraded in a vintage, but I don’t really care much for top notes anyway… August 24, 2013 at 9:21am Reply

        • leathermountain: Eau Absolue is dirty enough.
          Sel Marin might not be. August 24, 2013 at 8:00am Reply

          • Nadja Sand: I am a fan of Mona di Orio’s Cuir and I am all lemming for a sample of Nuit Noire (leather and tuberose just has to be a match made in heaven)… So I have a feeling that MdO is my kind of brand! August 24, 2013 at 9:15am Reply

    • leathermountain: Here’s a very recent discussion on a closely related topic: http://olfactoriastravels.com/2013/08/19/monday-question-what-is-your-attitude-to-skank-in-perfume/#comments August 23, 2013 at 8:12pm Reply

      • Nadja Sand: Yeah, that was the discussion that made me crave some skank! There are a lot of skanky scents mentioned there but rather too many actually… and there are so many kinds of skank. .. 😉 August 24, 2013 at 5:02am Reply

        • leathermountain: I know what you mean. On the one hand, when people start rattling of zillions of scent names, it’s kind of exciting. On the other hand, it’s overwhelming.

          I agree completely that skank is a very imprecise term. I think that’s because it refers to a complex of sensory and emotional responses, more so than a word like ‘citrus.’ Of course, we have emotional responses to the idea and smells of citrus, but the concept of ‘citrus’ seems to have some independent logical basis. Skank, on the other hand, seems to refer to some combination of animalic smells *and* a simultaneous revulsion/attraction that they provoke. Now that could mean a lot of things in a lot of different contexts! August 24, 2013 at 8:06am Reply

          • Nadja Sand: I find that attraction/revulsion contrast so fascinating and skanky scents always intrigue me more than any other kind of scent! I always prefer dirty before clean scents! Barnyard skank is so comforting for me and carnal skank is just… exciting (I want more of that)! 😉 Urinal skank is not my thing and I encounter it far to often (I blame chemistry). I have also heard that there is blood skank out there too, but I have never encountered it so I cannot tell what my reaction would be.

            I’m sure that there are even more types of skank and that personal reactions are often tied to scent memories or scents of place. August 24, 2013 at 9:32am Reply

    • nikki: try absolue pour le soir by francis kurkdijan August 24, 2013 at 6:38pm Reply

      • Nadja Sand: Thanks for the suggestion! I love smoky honey scents so that ne is right up my alley! August 24, 2013 at 7:55pm Reply

    • Figuier: Well done for braving the skank! I really like my vintage Bal a Versailles, even though I find it difficult to wear – and in my experience, the extrait formulations of several of the classic Guerlains have a similar civet-style note to them – you could try Shalimar or Jicky (esp the latter) for some serious ‘heft’… August 24, 2013 at 6:44pm Reply

      • Nadja Sand: Bal a V likes my skin so I find it very wearable! 😀 I have been wanting to sample vintage Shalimar and Jicky for a while as well as other old skanky classics like Djedi, Joy, Tabu… My problem is that if there is a vintage I won’t settle for a current formulation, so availability is a bit of an issue… August 24, 2013 at 7:53pm Reply

        • Figuier: I know exactly how you feel about the vintage/reform issue! Still, the extraits tend to be the most well-preserved of the reformulated Guerlains, so even if you do want to hold out for vintage it’s definitely worth testing current(ish) versions in the meantime. Even the Shalimar Ode a la Vanille iterations have a nice hint of civety skank.

          Good luck with the hunt 🙂 August 25, 2013 at 10:42am Reply

  • annemariec: After Wendy mentioned Lys 41 above, I made it my SOTD and have been thinking how Lys 41 fair leaps out of the bottle (or sample vial) and dances around with the pure joy of being released into the air and on to skin. This ‘dancing’ effect is very real for me. I really do imagine the perfume as a laughing, dancing sprite who had been trapped and is now released.

    The only other perfume I know that does this is Shalimar Parfum Initial. A completely different perfume but also very joyful and completely feminine. Substantial sillage too, needless to say.

    Has anyone else noticed this lovely dancing effect in a perfume? August 23, 2013 at 7:28pm Reply

    • Lavanya: That sounds lovely! Not exactly the same dancing effect but when I smell By Killian Love and Tears I see wet jasmine petals dancing on their tiptoes..like jasmine ballerinas..:) August 23, 2013 at 8:36pm Reply

      • annemariec: Jasmine ballerinas! How gorgeous. I can imagine tuberose ballerinas, and narcissus ballerinas, maybe even freesia ballerinas. August 24, 2013 at 12:27am Reply

        • Cornelia Blimber: Dancing flowers, how nice…lilies of the valleys for the 4 little swans. (Inspired by the White Swan, Black Swan Post!) August 24, 2013 at 4:47am Reply

    • Rachel Bramble: I understand perfectly!

      I get that dancing effect from CdG Eau de Parfum (the original one). I bought a bottle because it made me laugh as the various top notes seemed to jimmy for position in the front. Like a party in my nose! August 23, 2013 at 11:55pm Reply

      • annemariec: Fun party! Reminds me that Patricia de Nicolai’s Maharanih creates a similar effect for me. No ballerinas though. August 24, 2013 at 5:21am Reply

    • 2046: i am not over-fond of the original shalimar (sacrilege, i know; perhaps i need to try the vintage) but i love initial, and i know what you mean! there is a lot of energy, brightness and movement in this scent. August 24, 2013 at 6:55am Reply

    • AnnieA: Annemariec, the closest experience I’ve had is Demeter’s Gingerale, which really feels like bubbles going up my nose. Alas, like most of Demeter it disappears really fast… August 25, 2013 at 1:12pm Reply

  • Aisha: Hi everyone!

    I have a fragrance-related question, and I don’t know if you’ve already discussed this in the past: Is it OK to display fragrances, or should they really be tucked away? I have quite a few fragrance samples (some with their cards, some without), some miniatures and some full bottles of perfumes that I love. How quickly will they turn if I leave them out? They’re not exposed to direct sunlight, but our room does get some sun.

    I guess what I’d like to know is, how do you display/store/organize the fragrances that you have? 🙂 August 23, 2013 at 9:42pm Reply

    • annemariec: Oh tucked away, and definitely out of direct sunlight. That said, I usually have a few on my dressing table out of their bottles, the ones in regular use. I leave them out for maybe a month or two at a time, and then put them away. The light in my bedroom is dim most of the time.

      How quickly perfume ruins if left out is hard to say. If constantly left in direct bright light it could go off in a matter of months, or even weeks, depending on its raw materials I guess. So the bathroom is a no-no. The testers in department stores probably go off fairly fast because of the intense light and the warm cabinets they often sit on. Often they are warm to touch when you pick them up. Ack. August 24, 2013 at 12:14am Reply

      • Jillie: I have lost count of testers that I have tried and which have gone off. When I say this (in a nice, polite way!) to the assistants, I usually get “a look” …… August 24, 2013 at 5:20am Reply

        • Aisha: I’m afraid I’m so new at really paying attention to the notes in a fragrance, that I wouldn’t be able to tell if a tester is off. Unless, of course, I’m really, really familiar with the way a scent is suppose to smell. 🙂 August 24, 2013 at 9:14am Reply

      • Aisha: annemariec: Do you have to keep them in their original boxes when stored? I asked because I just bought a new fragrance for fall-in-to-winter wear, and I’m not sure what to do with the box. The perfume is already on my dresser, ready to go, because I can’t wait to use it regularly. 🙂 August 24, 2013 at 9:12am Reply

        • annemariec: Hi Aisha, yes, I certainly do keep the box.
          -the boxes are often very nice
          -they help store your perfumes because when put together in cabinets or in a larger storage box, they protect the bottles and keep everything at a relatively uniform shape. That way you don’t have bottles clinking and jostling each other.
          -if you ever decide to swap, sell or give away, the receiver is going to appreciate having the box. It is also a sign that you have stored the perfume well.

          Every perfume collector has their own system (or sometimes not!) for storage. I keep most of my perfume boxes in a blanket box under my bed. The more used ones sit on a little wooden shelf unit near my bed. I bought that in a junk shop.

          Good luck! I hope you enjoy your cool weather perfume. August 24, 2013 at 5:38pm Reply

          • Aisha: Thank you! August 26, 2013 at 6:53pm Reply

  • Lynley: Aisha,
    My perfumes have a chest of drawers (3 large drawers) just for them in my bedroom. My room is pretty dark and cool, but I open the curtains on pleasant days so there is light.

    I keep my current rotation in a vintage mirror tray on top of the drawers, and these get changed seasonally so they aren’t left out for too long. Vintage frags stay in the drawer! I like to have beautiful bottles I can see!!

    I’m worried the weight will soon break the drawers though (antique wooden chest) so am pondering the next storage system.. 🙂 August 24, 2013 at 12:05am Reply

    • Aisha: Do you also store those department store fragrance samples in your drawers too? Is there a neat way to store them? I often just toss them in to a glass bowl and fish them out later if I want to try one. August 24, 2013 at 9:07am Reply

      • Katie: My husband had the perfect solution for my sample storage problem. If you have a sporting goods store that carries hunting things nearby, the little plastic boxes designed to hold ammunition hold perfume samples perfectly. Bring a few different sample sizes with you when you go, since the boxes come in different sizes. August 24, 2013 at 11:52am Reply

      • Nadja Sand: Film canisters are perfect for storing 1 ml sample vials! August 24, 2013 at 5:18pm Reply

      • Aisha: Thank you, Katie and Nadja! Both are excellent ideas! August 26, 2013 at 6:52pm Reply

  • Carol: I love Chanel No. 19, but they have reissued it in a new formulation that I don’t love. What can you recommend for me to love once my 19 is gone? August 24, 2013 at 12:16am Reply

    • annemariec: There is nothing quite like Chanel No 19, but the list of green/galbanum/iris fragrances usually includes:

      Patricia de Nicolai’s Le Temps d’une Fete
      Jacomo Silences
      Balmain Vent Vert (many people prefer vintage)
      Annick Goutal Heure Exquise (many people who find Chanel No 19 to cold prefer Heure Exquise)
      Balmain Ivoire (1980 and 2012; to me the former is more interesting)
      Annick Goutal Eau de Camille (recently discontinued?)
      Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin
      Guerlain Chamade (EDT more then EDP, I think)
      Niki de Saint Phalle
      Chanel Bel Respiro
      Robert Piguet Bandit (maybe, quite leathery)

      You may not want to bother with No 19 Poudre, as it is much softer, cleaner and more musky than No 19. August 24, 2013 at 4:30am Reply

      • Annikky: Great list. I think there should be a special prize for the person who manages to come up with something additional 🙂 August 24, 2013 at 5:44am Reply

        • annemariec: Thanks Annikky! But there must be some niche I haven’t mentioned. Dawn Spencer Hurwitz, for instance. I don’t follow her work closely but she surely has some greens on her list. August 24, 2013 at 6:48am Reply

      • leathermountain: I think you are right about Eau de Camille. I’ve heard that it is among several AG scents that are being discontinued, that all the AG packaging is being redesigned, and that a boutique is supposed to be opening in NYC. I’m confused about why a company would want to scale down their line at the same time that they open a destination shop. August 24, 2013 at 8:25am Reply

        • annemariec: Yeah, dunno. The website has had a makeover too. I feel for fans of Eau de Camille. It’s too extremely green for me but I can imagine a lot of people loving it. August 24, 2013 at 8:33pm Reply

    • Cybele: To me Clinique Aromatics Elixir gives a somehow similar sensation. You might also enjoy Vetiver Pour Elle and Cartier L’Heure Fougueuse IV, here Victorias review: https://boisdejasmin.com/2011/01/cartier-lheure-fougueuse-perfume-review.html August 24, 2013 at 9:37am Reply

      • Cybele: oh, now something comes to mind- I think you should try Givenchy III! August 24, 2013 at 9:00pm Reply

  • Annikky: Hi, everyone!

    I didn’t plan to ask for recommendations this time, but all of a sudden, an important question materialised. My boyfriend returned from a perfume shop yesterday, wearing – of all things – Byredo Infloresence. For those of you not familiar with it, Infloresence is a very floral composition including jasmine, freesia and lily of the valley. J (the boyfriend) said that as he doesn’t have anything floral in his collection, he’d like something similar, only with less lily of the valley.

    I got terribly excited, as I love men who dare to wear florals. I also felt like I had failed in my duties, as it’s usually me who buys his scents – I enjoy it a lot and he’s happy to wear anything – and somehow I have been more conservative in my choices than I thought. There really are no florals in the bunch.

    As you have certainly guessed by now, I’d like some recommendations for florals that work well on men. From what I understood from J, he’s interested in something lighter, summery, radiant. A touch of citrus, aromatics or brighter woods would be welcome, but petals should be central. Scents that J has worn and enjoyed include Eau Sauvage, PdN Chic, Dior Homme, The Different Company Sel de Vetiver, Fahrenheit, Chanel Egoiste and SL Ambre Sultan. He can pull off most things and loves scents, so be as adventurous as you like. August 24, 2013 at 5:40am Reply

    • Nadja Sand: I cant help you and your boyfriend much as I have long stayed away from most florals. Especially horrors like jasmine and freesia! But have you tried Violet Woods on him? I seems like a scent that would work well on the adventurous man! August 24, 2013 at 6:00am Reply

      • Annikky: Hi, Nadja, I haven’t tried Wood Violet on him, will do that as soon as the weather gets a bit more autumn-y. Thanks!

        But you shouldn’t dismiss florals that easily! Your beloved Bal a Versailles has a good dose of jasmine, among other things. I would venture a guess that you don’t have a problem with florals per se, just with lighter and fresher takes on them. And maybe soliflores, but then again – have you tried Serge Lutens’s jasmines? August 25, 2013 at 4:29am Reply

        • Nadja Sand: I have a problem with some florals more than others… Jasmine is definitely one of them. I can’t handle jasmine if it is a dominant note in a scent. Rose is another one, I have yet to find a scent that I like where the rose is at all noticeable. There are some florals that I just hate because I have never liked any scent with them in it… They are florals that I closely relate to scents that are too light, bright and boring! Freesia is one of those… August 25, 2013 at 5:32am Reply

          • Annikky: Jasmine is not a problem for me, but I usually like my roses with a big supporting cast. And dark, most of the time.

            What I’ve found, though, is that several things I though I seriously disliked I now love (vetiver, lavender) or can handle perfectly well if expertly blended (immortelle). Thats why I urge you not to give up, as you might find something to love even among the dreaded florals 🙂 August 25, 2013 at 5:54am Reply

            • Nadja Sand: There ARE several florals that I have discovered a love for, and many that I can like if supported well… I love tuberose, iris, carnation and violet. And I can handle ylang, lavender, honeysuckle, immortelle, heliotrope, geranium, orange blossom… and so on, in the right company. I’m trying to be open minded and try quality scents even if they have jasmine, rose, lily of the valley, lilac or some other floral note that I have yet to enjoy. August 25, 2013 at 6:33am Reply

              • Cornelia Blimber: Try Love and Tears by Kilian—–and you will be a jasmin lover! August 25, 2013 at 8:33am Reply

                • Nadja Sand: What a flower bomb, and with only flowers that I dislike or am ambivalent about… And some citrus. What a scary frag! 😉 August 25, 2013 at 12:20pm Reply

                  • Cornelia Blimber: Oh, sorry!! August 25, 2013 at 4:03pm Reply

                  • Annikky: 🙂 August 26, 2013 at 3:45am Reply

    • Martyn: You might think of trying Caron’s Pour un Homme on him. I discovered it a couple of months ago, and wore it right through the recent heatwave we’ve had in Northern Europe. The lavender soon retreats (but never disappears), leaving room for a soft vanilla, and I’m sure there’s some jasmine in there too. For me it’s the perfect summer scent – not too heavy, not likely to offend the neighbours, but always there to be enjoyed in the background. August 24, 2013 at 6:21am Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: Chant d’Arômes (Guerlain) is great on a guy. You could also try Flora botanica (Balenciaga), it’s cheerful and summery. Or perhaps Un Jour d’Hermès? I know a man who loves Pleats Please and wears it–why not? And another one who is addicted to Magnolia Pourpre MPG.
        There are several Aqua Allegoria, flowery and easy to wear, also by a man: Lys Soleia, Jasminora, Nerolia… August 24, 2013 at 8:07am Reply

        • Annikky: Great suggestions, Cornelia – Chant d’Arômes sounds especially intrigueing. Thank you! Jour d’Hermes would be a very logical choice, but unfortunaltely I almost cannot smell it myself – I think I get some vague tuberose, but that’s it.

          And the men you know sound great, I absolutely agree that everyone should wear what they like. It’s also true that things I would find maybe a little unadventurous on a woman (like pretty florals) become automatically interesting when worn by a man. August 25, 2013 at 4:47am Reply

      • Annikky: Martyn, Caron is definitely on the list – thanks for reminding me! I’m awfully behind with Carons, but they make is all confusing and potentially disappointing with all those reformulations (Rocaille happened to be the first I tried…). August 25, 2013 at 4:33am Reply

    • Marie: I think Parfumerie Generale Drama Nuui fits the bill: it’s a green jasmine with spices and absinthe and not overly heady. Perfectly unisex as well.

      PS: Congratulations on your boyfriend! I have never experienced such an open minded partner when it comes to perfume… August 24, 2013 at 10:48am Reply

      • Annikky: Thank you, Marie! I’m not familiar with Drama Nuui, but I read a few reviews and it sounds great.

        The boyfriend has a very good nose and has always liked scents (not just perfume, but food and everything else), so he finds my hobby fascinating, if the intensity of it a little amusing. The only complaint he has is when I test multiple scents simultaneously – because then he “cannot understand who I want to be” at that moment. Which is fair enough. August 25, 2013 at 4:57am Reply

    • Dee: Oh my gosh, my favorite cologne on my husband is Atelier Cologne Grand Neroli. All the information about it is obviously geared toward women, but it is incredible on a man. All that lemon, orange blossom, and amber really bloom on a man’s sweatier, saltier skin. I wholeheartedly recommend getting a sample for your man. August 25, 2013 at 1:21am Reply

      • Annikky: Good idea, Dee! I’m seriously considering buying Atelier Cologne’s discovery set, as there are several scents in the line I like (Bois Blonds probably being my favourite so far), but haven’t tested thoroughly. August 25, 2013 at 5:00am Reply

    • george: Annikky, as a man that wears florals, I have to say that there are few flowers that can’t be worn by men, but it more often than not depends on the treatment of those flowers. Tubereuse Criminelle, Fracas, Fleur D’Oranger (SL), Diorella, Le Troisiemme Homme, a classic fougere or Pour Une Homme, Iris Poudre, Apres L’ondee, La Fille de Berlin, POAL and L’Heure Bleu, Sacrebleu Intense (though it is a while since I have worn this) and Geranium pour Monsieur all fall on the right side of the line for me, as do many other classic fragrances which have flowers as part of their constituent notes.
      Le Male by Gaultier, Poison (normal and Hypnotic), Arpege, Une Rose, Habit Rouge, Drole de Rose, Diorississmo, (before recent changes), Stella (though it is often used by men, but- urgh!- that peony note) all fall on the wrong side of the line (and some of them are off course masculine marketed)

      I say go wild! and don’t stop till you reach Fracas! August 25, 2013 at 7:40am Reply

      • george: I don’t think he will appreciate this though…….http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fNuTf76FlE August 25, 2013 at 8:17am Reply

        • Annikky: Probably not 🙂 I don’t find the video too bad, but that bottle… Have you actually smelled it? August 25, 2013 at 10:40am Reply

          • george: No, although the one thing i am allergic to in perfume is bottles that say “princess.” I will give it a sniff when I see it. I was going to then name a suitable shop, but let’s face it, this one is going to be EVERYWHERE. I quite like the fact the advert concentrates on the notes and what it smell like: but I think we already knew that this is going to be a fruity floral, didn’t we? August 25, 2013 at 12:14pm Reply

            • Annikky: Let’s say I’m not paralyzed by surprise 🙂 And I’m with you all the way on the princess bottles. August 28, 2013 at 5:03am Reply

      • Annikky: Oh, George, I hoped you would write something like this 🙂

        I firmly believe that men (and women) can wear anything and everything, so I don’t really need convincing. But it’s great to have recommendations, especially from someone who speaks from personal experience. I own several of the scents you mention (including Fracas :)), so I’ll just get to it. I’m really excited to try some white florals on J, it’s probably more challenging than iris, which I know he likes (he steals my Iris Silver Mist). August 25, 2013 at 10:38am Reply

        • Daisybell: How about Van Cleef and Arpels Bois d’Iris? I’m not sure why it doesn’t get mentioned more, it’s so lovely! Smoky ambery and driftwoodsy iris. I get scared off by overly big florals and I looove this. In fact I’m wearing it now.. I can see how it would work on men too! It’s marketed as unisex as well. August 29, 2013 at 7:47am Reply

    • Isis: I am probably not the right person to answer this one, but as we seem to have similar taste I will have a go: why not try Guerlain Jardins de Bagatelle? I happened to find a store where I could spray a bit on my wrist today and I loved it. I think that it might be really sexy on a man. August 25, 2013 at 1:47pm Reply

      • Annikky: Of course you are the right person! Your suggestion is very much appreciated, thank you. August 28, 2013 at 5:01am Reply

    • Elia: For adventurous I think Tuberose works well on men. Ophelia by Heeley my suggestion.
      Devin by Aramis is a good masculine floral chypre. August 29, 2013 at 4:33pm Reply

  • leathermountain: Can you please recommend me a perfume for unpredictable weather? It has been a cool summer with a couple of heat waves. Today feels like full-on autumn, crisp, clear, and windy. From experience I know we may still have very hot weeks yet. I was so cold this morning that I put on Fille en Aiguilles, but now I feel like I got ahead of the season. I used to think it was absurd to attach fragrances to seasons, but now it suddenly seems so compelling to do so.

    So I’m looking for scents that play well both in summer and in autumn. Related: my wife and I are celebrating our wedding at the end of October, in a garden, in the morning, outdoors with any luck. So I’m thinking a summer-tilted autumn scent might be the way to go for that big event, too. (I wore Chanel No. 22 for our City Hall wedding right after DOMA was overturned. That was a statement. In contrast, the upcoming event is a party.)

    Also, I’m a teacher, about to go back into the classroom at a very alternative public school in NYC. The students wear a lot of fragrance. Most of the adults don’t, as far as I can tell. So I’m also wondering which of the summer-into-fall scents might be pulled off there. I’m willing to go out on a limb a little, as the school culture values eccentricity (even in the teachers).

    Maybe this is relevant: I teach science classes, which are sometimes rather stinky (most infamously Microbiology, although not this semester).

    A few loves that kinda sorta fit one or another of these circumstances: the Fille en Aiguilles, Andrea Maack Coal, Jacomo Silences, Goutal Nuit Etoilee EdP, Maria Candida Gentile Hanbury, Nicolai L’Eau MiXte.

    Dislikes: I have a difficult time with vanilla and with many ambers. I don’t like smelling edible.

    Really looking forward to your suggestions! Thanks! August 24, 2013 at 8:48am Reply

    • Cornelia Blimber: Difficult question…My first thought is Vitriol d’Oeillet. Good choice in all seasons. Strong enough in stinky classes. August 24, 2013 at 9:13am Reply

      • leathermountain: Interesting. What does Vitriol d’Oeillet smell like? My read of the Fragrantica votes says it smells like cloves (which could compete with bacteria, in more ways than one, as it happens). How would you describe it? August 24, 2013 at 10:03am Reply

        • Cornelia Blimber: When it came out in 2011, I was disappointed because I expected a warm, spicy carnation, which it is not. But when I smelled it last winter, I bought a full bottle. There is a hint of clove indeed, that reminds of carnation, specially in the drydown. I would describe it as a sharp (in a good way) soapy rose, reminding of carnation because of clove and some other spices. It is not shrill and not sweet, not overloud but very present.
          I payd €85 (in Amsterdam). (50 ml). August 24, 2013 at 12:18pm Reply

          • leathermountain: Sounds great! Onto the test list. Thank you! August 25, 2013 at 9:39am Reply

    • Nadja Sand: The one scent that immediately comes to mind is Nombres d’Or Cuir. On me it is a scent that works splendidly in all kinds of weather and, I would imagine, all seasons. It does bloom best in humid conditions (rain works wonders, but so does sweat). 😉 In dry indoor conditions it stays quite close to the skin. But I have the roll on, so I don’t know what the spray does for sillage… August 24, 2013 at 9:48am Reply

      • leathermountain: That does sound wonderful.

        I’m sorry, I forgot to mention: I’m especially looking for the scents in the lower half of the price range. August 24, 2013 at 10:00am Reply

        • Nadja Sand: The Mona di Orio roll ons are cheap but the rest is rather pricy… 🙁 Absolutely gorgeous though! August 24, 2013 at 10:24am Reply

          • leathermountain: Great point. I’d never clocked the roll-ons before. Thank you for the info! August 24, 2013 at 11:53am Reply

    • Marie: For a late summer / autumn fragrance I usually go for Bois Blond by Parfumerie Generale. I like it even more on men because the hay and tobacco note make it a bit smoky.

      I don’t know if it’s formal enough for a wedding anniversary but it’s definitely outdoorsy. August 24, 2013 at 10:56am Reply

      • leathermountain: I’ve never tried that one and it’s going on my list. Thank you! August 24, 2013 at 11:53am Reply

      • leathermountain: If it matters, we’re thinking of it more as a wedding than an anniversary. We waited eight years for DOMA to be overturned (June 26 of this year), and then legally married as soon as possible, the following week, with little fanfare. The upcoming celebration in October is basically as soon as we could pull our friends and family together following those events. So, pretty much the wedding. August 24, 2013 at 12:00pm Reply

    • Cybele: Sycomore August 24, 2013 at 11:05am Reply

      • leathermountain: That is a great idea! I’m pretty sure I’ve got a sample around here, and I will try it post haste. August 24, 2013 at 11:52am Reply

      • E.Lime: In the same vein, Coromandel. I like it in all kinds of weathers. August 24, 2013 at 9:13pm Reply

        • leathermountain: Can you perhaps help me with Coromandel? I know it has legions of great fans, but I don’t really get it yet. It smells a bit plasticky, medicinal, and/or sharp to me, if I’m remembering correctly. Any idea what I’m missing? August 25, 2013 at 9:41am Reply

          • Cornelia Blimber: Try Bornéo 1834 (Lutens)! The same idea, but richer, not plasticky at all. August 25, 2013 at 11:59am Reply

          • george: Spray it on fabric, especially on a coat you might wear over a few days! It starts off very dense but relaxes and if you learn to love to the drydown, which will go on forever, you will learn to love the fragrance in anticipation of that, or at least that was my experience of it. August 25, 2013 at 12:10pm Reply

            • leathermountain: George, are you referring to Coromandel or to Borneo 1834? August 25, 2013 at 12:35pm Reply

              • george: Coromandel August 25, 2013 at 1:59pm Reply

          • E.Lime: You might not be missing anything! It might just not work for you (like me and Bois de Iles, which I almost feel guilty admitting!). Maybe it’s the patchouli, maybe it’s the dryness of the cocoa, who knows. If it doesn’t work for you, then you can get down to checking out all these other great suggestions! I hope you find something that is perfect for the occasion. August 25, 2013 at 1:58pm Reply

            • leathermountain: Hi there, E. Lime.
              Thank you for the encouragement! You’re right, sometimes it just doesn’t work out. No guilt, none at all! I hate Bois des Iles. (I don’t hate it, but I stand in solidarity.)

              I do this laboring-to-appreciate not out of any sense of obligation but because I am greedy and curious, and I love trying to figure out why things smell the way they do, learning more, and seeing my perceptions and preferences change (usually broaden) in the process. The thrill of the chase, sort of, as I am kind of chasing own tail….. Ok I give up on that metaphor.

              I almost always like patchouli and dryness. On its own, cocoa absolute makes me swoon, but I can’t think of a perfume I love (so far!) with obvious or stated cocoa notes. So, I am still wondering what it is about Coromandel….

              And meanwhile, down with Bois des Iles! (Kidding, but seriously, why not dislike it? I figure, the more expensive a perfume is, the better off you are not liking it. So, you’ve done pretty well there with Bois des Iles.) August 26, 2013 at 8:39am Reply

      • leathermountain: I’ve been reading about a connection between Sycomore and Encre Noir. I have little bits of both but haven’t worn them yet. I also remember thinking in the shop that Sycomore reminded me of Tam Dao, which I think smells great but is overbearing for me when I wear it. Anyone want to compare and contrast the three? August 25, 2013 at 9:42am Reply

        • Cybele: I think Sycomore smells fantastic and not overbearing at all, you might also want to try Timbuktu if you like dryness. If you like bitter green dryness try French Lover by Frederick Malle- I only tried it once but really enjoyed Le Labo Vetiver. Sorry I’m not familiar with neither Encre Noir nor Tam Dao but these other scents just came to mind. August 26, 2013 at 10:00pm Reply

    • 2046: congratulations on your wedding-to-be!! very happy for you. 😀

      i would second sycomore. i also find tea fragrances to be suitable for the summer-to-autumn transition – bvlgari’s au the line, for example, which can usually be had for (relatively) cheap. if you like l’eau mixte, i think you might like diptyque’s l’ombre dans l’eau. malle’s dan tes bras is woody, wonderful and weird… a good outside-one’s-comfort-zone scent!, more fall than summer though i’d say. August 24, 2013 at 8:45pm Reply

      • leathermountain: Thank you so much for your congratulations. 🙂

        Tea is a great idea!

        I got very excited when I first learned about the existence of tea scents. And then I was so disappointed that they smelled to me nothing like tea. Then I found Hanbury, which is said to be mimosa/honey, but which smells to me like orange blossom and actual black tea. Hooray! Maybe that’s what I should be wearing right now. I’ve enjoyed wearing it in great heat and humidity, just reveling in the much-ness of the days and evenings and perfumes. I’m thinking it might play rather differently and beautifully in this weather….

        I am curious: do others find that “tea” scents do not smell like tea? And are there scents that do smell like tea to you?

        I do like L’Ombre Dans L’Eau. I think of it as a blackcurrant/rose, and I don’t know why it hasn’t pulled me in closer. I love those two notes. They play so well together. Maybe too sour? I can’t figure this one out.

        I wore Dans Tes Bras a few times during the spring and ended up passing along my sample to a more appreciative home. But I’ll give it another go, now that the weather is more in sync with it, and now that I am exploring warmer scents in earnest. August 25, 2013 at 9:51am Reply

        • 2046: hmm, i am asian and drink copious amounts of tea, and i would agree that ellena’s iconic au the vert doesn’t really smell like green tea at all, and it inspired a bunch of tea frags that in turn don’t smell at all like tea. on the other hand, au the rouge smells very much of rooibos imo! osmanthe yunnan reminds me of eating osmanthus-jelly with some black tea. (maybe too much of a skin scent though. ) also, olfactive studio’s still life really smells exactly like iced lemon tea to me… a little too realistically… i must try hanbury!

          cdg has some tea scents, i think. i recall them being very synthetic in the typical cdg style but also very interesting and worth checking out.

          l’ombre is very tart, but that is part of why i like it. i could see why others wouldn’t care that much for it though! and dans tes bras is definitely a cool weather scent for me. August 25, 2013 at 10:41am Reply

          • leathermountain: Osmanthe Yunnan — is that one of the Hermessences? If so, I had very mixed feelings on first sniff and would like to revisit.

            I’m curious about Still Life, and the hyper-realistic concept give me an idea about tincturing some tea leaves for myself…..

            I remember enjoying a whiff of CDG Calamus, and also Dover Street Market, and I think both of them are a bit fake-tea (but potentially nice).

            Actually, I think the sourness of L’Ombre somehow emphasizes its sweetness in a way I find to be overbearing on myself. I don’t understand why that would work that way.

            Curious about rooibos. My mother drinks that, I think, but I don’t believe I’ve ever tried it. Do you like it? August 25, 2013 at 10:18pm Reply

        • Morelle: Re L’Ombre Dans L’Eau: Have you tried the EdP version yet? I find it to be less tart/sour than the EdT. In fact, the EdP was love at first sniff for me, and I bought an FB right away (and did not regret it later, quite the opposite) August 26, 2013 at 6:00pm Reply

    • Dee: I always think that orange blossom adapts really well to whatever weather. In the heat, it opens up and feels sultry, and in the cold it reminds you of sunshine. Even though everyone said it was overpriced, I loved the heck out of my Sephora sample of Tom Ford Neroli Portofino. It can be hard to do an orange blossom that lasts, and this one does–I think because it’s anchored by amber, although I didn’t pick that note out at all when I was wearing it. Also, because it’s simple and fairly clean-smelling, I doubt your students would have a problem with it, but there’s something romantic about orange blossom that lends itself to a wedding, too. Along those same lines, I also recommend Atelier Cologne Grand Neroli. August 25, 2013 at 1:27am Reply

      • leathermountain: Great ideas! And I think you and I are thinking in the same direction (I was going on and on about Hanbury, above).

        So, neroli is orange blossom? I think I had it mixed up with bergamot.

        The one time I smelled Neroli Portofino I already knew it was expensive and decided in a split second that I could find something just as good for less money. So I’ve never given it a real chance. And, thinking that neroli was bergamot or similar, I didn’t even consider a floral aspect. I thought of boring cologne and soap, and I am certain there is more to it. But, I do appreciate a less expensive option!

        I think you are absolutely right about clean-smelling or citrus-ish playing well with my students. And almost any note that was subtle enough, I suppose. I don’t tend to gravitate toward subtlety. But I think it was Victoria who recommended Love, Chloe to another reader in such terms that I gave it a third or fourth try, and now I have surprised myself by liking it quite a bit. Does the rest of the world think of Love, Chloe as being relatively subtle, or is it just me?

        I must go back to Atelier. I smelled the whole line in one shot a few months ago, before the Silver and Gold ones came out. I wore the wrong ones, I think — Oolong Infini (too sweet and not enough bitter/tannin for something named after oolong — why do I even pay attention to the names?) and Mistral Patchouli (can’t even remember this one). I really disliked the Gold and Silver scents when I smelled them on paper the other day. But I shall give all the others another, better chance.

        Thank you! August 25, 2013 at 10:02am Reply

        • Dee: The Tom Ford is crazy expensive. I got a sample for free at Sephora that lasted me a month or so, though. And the Jo Malone orange blossom is a classic that really works in that same vein, too, without the price tag! The Tom Ford works really well. It smells simple, but then after a while you realize it’s still around, lasting longer than any other orange blossom and staying truer. But, yeah, the price tag is a hard one to swallow. I can’t bring myself to buy a bottle, either.

          Neroli and orange blossom are basically the same, although I know there’s some technical difference I can never remember. All I know is that neroli always seems a touch greener to me, and they seem to think it’s safer to use that name to market to men.

          Maybe you two could buy a bottle of Jo Malone each–one in orange blossom and one in grapefruit (or even the nectarine blossom). And then you can each wear one and blend together in scented harmony! August 26, 2013 at 2:33am Reply

          • leathermountain: Hi Dee,
            That’s funny. I like the Jo Malone Orange Blossom a lot. And each time I put on my JM sample, I think: maybe I can skip the uber-expensive Hanbury. And then, within an hour, I think: I wish I had put on Hanbury instead of this. JM is very very pretty. And it’s probably perfect for the weather, for teaching, for anything. Except, I can’t wear it for the love of Hanbury. Oh, my.

            You raise an interesting point about scented harmony. How closely to coordinate the outfits? The fragrances? I have no clue.

            Now I understand why I have bergamot oil and no neroli oil. The cost! My understanding is that orange blossoms are costly to distill. It makes sense, I guess. Flowers are often genetically programmed for short fragrant existences to ensure coordinated pollination within their own species. Fruits, on the other hand, are packages. (Sorry, school year is fast approaching and I can’t help myself). August 26, 2013 at 8:47am Reply

    • Annikky: First, huge congratulations!

      Second, I wanted to suggest Lumiere Blanche. I know I recommend it a lot and I realize it doesn’t really fall in the same camp with your other favourites. Still, I wanted to mention it as I’ve just had a minor revelation: people usually consider LB an autumn-winter scent, as it has this wonderful cashmere scarf quality, but I’ve just worn it on a very hot day (well, by Brussels standards) and it smelled beautiful. I think it would be subtle enough for the classroom and with this “white” theme could actually be a slightly non-traditional option for the wedding as well. It’s not terribly expensive, either. August 25, 2013 at 10:24am Reply

      • leathermountain: Thank you for the huge congratulations!

        Lumiere Blanche is very cashmere scarf. And I wore it once this summer, and it wasn’t overwhelming. I think you’re right about the classroom, plus it’s kind of milky and sweet, which is another category that students would likely find agreeable. They might start asking for an after-school snack. 🙂

        I will have to try it on again. I smelled it before embarking on my learn-to-love-warm-scents adventure. Now I think it stands a much better chance with me.

        That is an intriguing idea about the wedding, and I never would have thought of it! At this point I can’t imagine forgoing florals altogether for that occasion (but there are still two months to ruminate on this….) In the event, maybe it could be my alternative if the weather turns out to be cold that day. I hope it won’t!!

        Thank you! August 25, 2013 at 11:58am Reply

    • Elia: I think you should reach for favourites on special occasions, tired and tested.
      I think for a big event I’d look for a huge white floral, 24 Faubourg if it were me.

      For more adventure and exclusivity, you could try the discontinued masculine Gucci Nobile. Golden in the summer, transitions into autumn and I see you like green, so it might work for you.

      Otherwise I’m thinking leather is great for all seasons. So many to pick from. If you don’t mind being a little bit edible, 1740 I’m thinking would be great. August 29, 2013 at 4:43pm Reply

  • Alexandria: Hi everyone,

    I’m stuck between buying Lady Million or Chanel coco chanel, I’m looking for a night perfume.

    Thanks August 24, 2013 at 7:16pm Reply

    • Nefret: My personal choice would be neither; not to be snobby or anything, but those are literally the best-selling perfumes around, and I do smell them on an almost daily basis. There’s nothing special to either, and I used to own Coco Mlle. Really, since you’ve narrowed it down, there’s nothing better than going into the store, spraying each of your choices on yourself, and deciding based on that.

      What sort of other perfumes have you liked in the past? August 25, 2013 at 3:05pm Reply

    • Dee: One thing you know with a Chanel is that you’re getting quality for your money. Even if not everyone likes every scent, nobody can deny that they go all out on the ingredients. Unfortunately, not every company does the same, and a lot of time you’re just paying for the name. With Chanel, that’s never the case.

      I’d say go for the Coco Mademoiselle. That was the first bottle of perfume I ever requested as a young lady, and I have a soft spot for it, too. And that bottle is so lovely sitting on your dresser with that beautiful muted juice inside. August 26, 2013 at 2:40am Reply

    • Karen: Coco chanel is divine, such a classic! Try CK Euphoria, Lanvin Arpege, D&G Impertrice, Bvlgari Omina,Chanel Allure, Hermes 24 Fauborg and YSL Opium. Happing sniffing 🙂 August 26, 2013 at 2:07pm Reply

  • Alexandria: Chanel coco *mademoiselle* August 24, 2013 at 7:17pm Reply

    • Dee: Also, if you’ve never tried it, next time you’re at the perfume counter, ask for a spritz of the Chanel Coco EDT. You might be surprised with how much you like it. It’s got a kind of Coke fizz at the beginning, and then the drydown is a lot like the Coco Mademoiselle drydown, only spicier and not so sweet. Be sure it’s the EDT, which is lighter; I think the heavier EDP might turn you off with too much amber. August 26, 2013 at 2:42am Reply

  • Mel: My mother’s 70th birthday is coming up in September. I’ve been wanting to nudge her out of her 30 year Anais Anais phase for a while. Several responses from an earlier Recommend Me session suggested Le Temps d’Un Fete as a lateral segue but now the availability of the edp is becoming dodgy. Any other suggestions? August 24, 2013 at 7:55pm Reply

    • Dee: What about something like Estee Lauder Private Collection Tuberose Gardenia? It’s floral and feminine, but they also did a good job of making it modern. I think every age can relate to it–from 20s to 70s. Plus, it’s readily available, and every grandma loves a gift-with-purchase. August 25, 2013 at 1:50am Reply

      • E.Lime: Dee, that’s a great idea! It’s such a lovely, classy scent. August 25, 2013 at 2:00pm Reply

        • Dee: I love that vanilla bourbon in the dry down. August 26, 2013 at 2:35am Reply

      • Aisha: That’s such a beautiful fragrance. I also like their Private Collection Jasmine White Moss. August 26, 2013 at 2:11pm Reply

        • Mel: I couple of years ago V wrote that she was giving her friends the EL body crème in jasmine white moss for Christmas so I bought it for my Mom. And she loved it. Who wouldn’t? August 26, 2013 at 7:01pm Reply

      • Mel: Great idea! Thanks! I LOVE that scent. Perfect for Mom. Why didn’t I think of that but I was thinking too rigidly in the “green” category. August 26, 2013 at 6:58pm Reply

  • James: I like Une Fleur de Cassie and would like something with that same quirky and dirty floral vibe. August 24, 2013 at 8:19pm Reply

    • leathermountain: That is a beauty, James!

      I can’t think of a perfume that is similar, but I’ve got a few quirky and/or dirty floral ideas to share, biased heavily toward rose at the moment:

      Quirky:
      –Union’s Gothic Bluebell (also very vanilla) — not quite as over-the-top as Penhaligon’s Bluebell, which is a bit too quirky/dirty for me (so far)
      –Ormonde Jayne Ta’if — rich but not-too sweet date/amber rose — it’s actually not quite quirky and definitely not dirty, but it’s special
      –Kerosene Whips and Roses. I don’t remember this one clearly enough to say if it’s dirty or not. I do remember thinking that the name was a pretty good description.

      Quirky/Dirty:
      –Imaginary Authors’ Bull’s Blood — I nice dirty rose, preceded by something indescribably weird. I’m told it’s costus, but I have no idea what that smells like.
      –Juliette Has a Gun Mad Madame — dirty L’Ombre Dans L’Eau
      –Union’s Gunpowder Rose — sometimes I can’t smell the gunpowder (sadly), but I always get some good earthy patchouli

      Dirty:
      –Jean Patou Joy. Wait for the drydown. August 25, 2013 at 10:20am Reply

      • Annikky: To my nose, Whips & Roses is more kinky than dirty – someone described the leather there as vinyl-like and I agree. But it’s definitely worth sampling. And I’m glad to see Bull’s Blood mentioned, this is a tough one to wear but if you like it, you’ll probably love it.

        I put some Une Fleur de Cassie on, but still cannot think of anything similar. From FM, Portrait of a Lady and Noir Epices seem the most similar in feel (not in actual smell). And my favourite slightly dirty floral is probably Tom Ford’s discontinued Velvet Gardenia, but while UFdC is all intellect, VG is pure sex.

        I must say that I never think of Une Fleur de Cassie as a floral, so maybe some woods are worth trying as well. August 25, 2013 at 11:11am Reply

      • James: Many thanks for the ideas August 25, 2013 at 11:13am Reply

        • leathermountain: A pleasure. How many people actually want to hear all about my this-es and my thats?! August 26, 2013 at 8:50am Reply

  • Caroline: Hi all, I stumbled upon this wonderful blog in search of a new signature scent. My husband loves jasmine; I had always worn Jo Malone Honeysuckle Jasmine (which is now discontinued). Thanks to Victoria’s reviews, I tried a sample of Serge Lutens A La Nuit and it was an immediate hit. My new personal favorite is Jour d’Hermes because it lifts my mood. This blog has really inspired me to build my perfum wardrobe. Can someone please recommend another perfume that would add some versatility? Many thanks! August 24, 2013 at 10:56pm Reply

    • Figuier: Congratulations on finding a new jasmine to love! Jour d’Hermes is indeed a lovely cheerful springlike scent. Maybe what you need now is something a bit warmer and autumnal/wintery?

      Given that you like jasmine, it might make sense simply to stay with the floral genre – in which case I’d suggest Annick Goutal’s Songes, which has a warm, tropical vibe, but is comforting in cooler weather due to its lovely vanilla base.

      Alternatively, you could look to the oriental family. Since you know you like at least one of his perfumes, Lutens might be a place to start. My favourite is Chergui; his Bois series is fantastic (Bois de Violette, Feminite de Bois, Bois et Fruits etc) and of his newer orientals, Santal Majuscule is surprisingly cosy and easy to wear.

      Jo Malone’s orientals would also be worth a look, if you like her Jasmine & Honeysuckle. They’re much more delicate than Lutens; the Cucumber and Early Grey starts off bright and clean, but then dries down to a milky vanilla; Blue Agava and Cocoa again starts out quite vivid, but has a lovely rich, cocoa-ish finish. August 25, 2013 at 10:39am Reply

      • Caroline: Thank you Figuier! I am in Houston and would love to find a cozy, autumn scent for those cherished days when the temp drops below 60. I am excited about your suggestions and most interested in the Songes. Also, I am headed to Paris in October and would love to purchase a scent there to commemorate the trip. Does anyone have a favorite store that carries Lutens in Paris? We are staying in the 8th. Want to try more from him, since I adore A La Nuit! August 25, 2013 at 12:42pm Reply

        • Martha: Hi Caroline. I’m in Houston, too, and love Paris in October! The Serge Lutens boutique in Palais Royal is beautiful and the sales staff both knowledgable and kind. Well worth the visit.
          I love SL’s Amber Sultan and De Profundis for winter (and sometimes when the a/c is going full blast. They might be worth a sniff. Have fun in October! August 25, 2013 at 1:58pm Reply

        • E.Lime: Fille en Aguilles is also a great winter Lutens (though with the pine note, you may find it too festive for general fall wear–though who knows, it may be just right for texas!). August 25, 2013 at 2:02pm Reply

          • Caroline: Martha and E.Lime, I am grateful for your suggestions! Am noting them all to try at the SL store @ Palais Royal. In honesty, I am glad my old Jo Malone was discontinued, as I am enjoying this new adventure in fragrance! I have three young children and putting on perfume makes me feel dressed, even though typically I am wearing work out clothes and chasing toddlers. Now if I could just get my husband to try a few new scents for himself… it’s Old Spice deodorant for now (hah!). And another thank you to Victoria for your beautiful writing and outstanding sense of smell! August 25, 2013 at 2:50pm Reply

            • Annikky: Dear Caroline, I agree with others regarding the Serge Lutens boutique – do visit, if you can! But I’d also recommend Parfums de Nicolai, as it was the highlight of my perfume shoppingin Paris this April. Patricia de Nicolai’s scents are beautiful, classically French and very affordable – a great and rare combination. The staff was friendly and helpful and I never felt intimidated. You can check the (now improved!) web site to see which location is best for you.

              Printemps or Lafayette are good if you want an overview of many brands at once. And Guerlain flagship on Champs-Elysees is an experience as well.

              Enjoy Paris! August 25, 2013 at 3:15pm Reply

              • Caroline: Thanks, Annikky. Looking forward to continuing my search in Paris and am quite certain I will bring home a bottle (or two) to add to my small collection! Appreciate all these thoughtful suggestions and the Paris perfume shopping info. Thank you all for adding something special to my upcoming trip! August 25, 2013 at 5:02pm Reply

            • george: Caroline, there are also certain fragrances that are exclusive to the Palais Royale Serge Lutens store and (at one point, but I don’t know about currently) the Barneys store in New York. If you go on their site it is mainly the ones in the bell jars (though some are also available as selective distribution), so it might be worth doing a little research, and having a bit of a game plan for what you want to smell when you visit, factoring in that exclusivity. Plus I’m sure in the Guerlain store and the Paris Sephora there will be other rarities. However, I am a slightly envious perfumisto who knows that as much London has many delights there are a few perfumes out of my reach that will be within your grasp in October. So if you are new to perfume, just go ahead and enjoy, you will certainly be in for a treat whatever you end up smelling! August 26, 2013 at 9:32am Reply

              • Caroline: Great suggestion, George. I need to research so I don’t end up with an impulse buy. I’d love to come home with an exclusive scent so I have an excuse to return when the bottle runs out! August 28, 2013 at 6:49pm Reply

            • Isis: It is so funny that you use your perfume that way… I do too!! I have three children, and when I leave the house in jeans, a t-shirt and little baby-vomit on my shoulder, the right perfume makes me feel perfectly elegant and in control of things. I actually have a few scents that I use especially when I feel the need to compensate for bad hair and no make-up… Chanel coco, 24 Faubourg and my new favourite Fleurs d’Oranger are very effective 😉 . August 28, 2013 at 4:51pm Reply

              • Caroline: Isis, It is such a pick me up! Coincidentally I am sampling Fleurs d’Oranger today! Need to add a Chanel into my collection 🙂 August 28, 2013 at 6:55pm Reply

        • Mel: Caroline! One of my favorite fall scents is Bois de Paradis by Parfums DelRae. It’s moody, dramatic, and uplifting all at the same time! One of the ways I expanded my perfume vocabulary was by investigating the incense/smoke scents. L’Artisan’s Dzongkha and Timbuktu are where I started and have since veered all the way to Rose Incense by Andy Tauer which is sensational and a smoky scent by Sonoma Scent Studio (can’t remember exact name). Have fun!!! August 26, 2013 at 7:11pm Reply

          • Caroline: Mel, thank you. I am excited to try your suggestions… they sound fascinating and totally different from anything I have! August 28, 2013 at 6:59pm Reply

      • Julie: I second Blue Agava & Cacao. Unique and gorgeous scent. I’m not a gourmand scent lover, and even though this has the cacao it is not what I’d call a sweet scent. JM actually categorizes it as a floral. Also, no need for layering with this one as it’s got great staying power.

        I’d actually like to find some other non-gourmand gourmand scents.

        Any recs?? August 25, 2013 at 12:42pm Reply

        • Victoria: Julie, have you tried Etat Libre d’Orange Like This? It’s a gourmand perfume that doesn’t smell edible, and it’s a little marvel. August 27, 2013 at 11:04am Reply

          • Julie: I’ve not! Thank you for the recommendation! I will give it a try.
            I so enjoy your blog and have learned so much from you and the others who are so passionate about fragrance. Thank you!! August 27, 2013 at 1:13pm Reply

  • Laura: Hi all, it’s autumn in Prague now (15 C and raining) and I’m in the mood for an autumn fragrance. I just don’t know which one.

    Right now am enjoying a stroopwafel with hot tea with plum, cinnamon and vanilla flavor and I’d love a fragrance like this 🙂

    The only affordable one I know to fit the profile is one I admired so much on a friend of my Mom’s as a girl – Femme de Rochas – except I understand the formula is not what it once was.

    Any comment suggestion welcome. August 25, 2013 at 11:52am Reply

    • Annikky: Hi, Laura – I think Prague is beautiful in rain, too. But I understand your longing for a comforting autumn fragrance, so my best bets are Parfums DelRae Bois de Paradis, Chanel Egoiste and Serge Lutens Bois et Fruits. And, well, Feminite du Bois, as always 🙂 August 25, 2013 at 3:30pm Reply

    • Shendel: Oh, Annick Goutal’s Eau de Charlotte seems perfect! August 28, 2013 at 8:48pm Reply

  • Savitanaraine: Hey guys, please recommend me a straight up green tea fragrance that is not bitter.I’m looking for one that is long lasting and had some sillage and of course inexpensive. Thanks in advance 😉 August 25, 2013 at 5:26pm Reply

    • Caroline: L’Occitane has a straight-up green tea scent–it’s under their “discontinued” heading, but looks like it may still be ordered and the price is right. August 25, 2013 at 10:52pm Reply

    • Anne of Green Gables: Hello Savitanaraine, I second L’Occitane Green Tea and of course there’s Elizabeth Arden Green Tea which is quite nice, affordable and easy to find. August 26, 2013 at 4:04am Reply

    • Patricia: Bvlgari Eau Parfumee au The Vert, created by Jean-Claude Ellena, is citrus, jasmine, and green tea and quite lovely and refreshing. It isn’t bitter, but isn’t sweet, either, and is considered unisex. Worth a try! August 26, 2013 at 9:44am Reply

  • Ivy: I have been quite happy with the scent of Aesop’s body wash, “A Rose By Any Other Name”, so I was wondering if there are any fragrances similar to this?
    It begins as a warm blend of rose and pepper, neither overwhelming the other, then the spiciness of pepper and cardamom emerges, while the rose fades but still has a presence by
    softening the harsh edges of the spices. There is also something else in the mix, more herbal, but I’m not quite sure what it is. Overall, simple & blends into the skin but still makes a statement.
    I would really appreciate a point in the right direction! Thanks! August 27, 2013 at 8:42am Reply

    • Victoria: I haven’t tried this Aesop wash, but from your description I thought of Caron Parfum Sacre. It’s also a peppery, spicy rose. August 27, 2013 at 9:05am Reply

  • Shendel: Can you recommend me a nice iris fragrance in the lines of 28 La Pausa? I refuse to buy it, it lasts so little on my skin, less than one hour, but is so delicious.

    Another rec: I like many Chanel LE, my favorites are Bois des Iles and Sycomore. I also adore Cristalle and Mitsouko, and I’m looking for a deep dark forest scent. Perhaps Ormonde Jayne Woman? August 28, 2013 at 3:42pm Reply

    • Victoria: My favorite iris is Serge Lutens Iris Silver Mist, which is for me an iris perfection. Have you tried it?

      It sounds like Ormonde Jayne Woman (and also try Man!) would be good choices. They are definitely some of the best perfumes for that dark forest experience. 🙂 August 29, 2013 at 4:38am Reply

      • Shendel: No, I haven’t. And I’m extremely curious about it, just this week I almost swapped my Coromandel for a bottle of ISM with a guy on Basenotes, but it didn’t work. I love my Coromandel but I can easily get it, and any Serge Lutens, specially those exclusive to the Paris shop, are really hard to get. Maybe it was better this way, because I would spend a lot (custom fees) for something I haven’t tried. But I will order some decants soon. 🙂 August 29, 2013 at 12:04pm Reply

        • Victoria: Do get a sample first! It’s too risky of a blind purchase. August 29, 2013 at 3:04pm Reply

        • george: Shendel, you were also commenting on the weirdness of Apres L’ondee on another thread and how you weren’t quite sure about it. I generally (esp. in the current formation) think of that as an iris perfume. I also think of Iris as the olive of the perfumery world- a taste that has very little relation to anything else one encounters, so that upon first encountering it, it seems weird and it takes a while to make up one’s mind as to whether one likes it or not. However, it’s hard for me to say that the reason that you are unsure about apres l’ondee is because of the Iris content when you love 28 la pausa. I would agree with Victoria on getting a sample of Iris Silver Mist first, but also maybe trying Apres L’ondee a couple more times, to see which way your judgement on that ends up falling, and whether noticing similarities between that and 28 La Pausa influences that decision positively. I also find APL quite long-lasting, so if you end up liking it that might be the solution. August 30, 2013 at 11:07am Reply

  • Ines: I just want to thank y’all for helping me find a new and exciting fragrance in the July: Recommend Me a Perfume and it is….Caron Parfum Sacre- ta-dah!. It is perfectly poised for me, it melts into my skin without resistance and the dry down is better than Serge Lutens – Sa Majeste la Rose – I can still smell the rose. Quoting Victoria.. “It can be compared to a fine cashmere shawl as it clings to the skin and feels warm and smooth.” Thanks to Annikky, Leathermountain, Victoria & Heidi for your generous comments and advice. August 29, 2013 at 7:55pm Reply

    • Ines: By the way – it was quite an adventure as well. August 29, 2013 at 7:58pm Reply

    • Victoria: I’m so happy to hear this, Ines. Thank you very much for letting us about the outcome of your search. Parfum Sacre is a great choice, and it’s such a complex, layered perfume that I’m sure that you will enjoy it for many years to come. August 30, 2013 at 12:34pm Reply

  • Dorothy Boillot: Hi,
    I used to live in France,but after my husband died,I returned back to the US. with my young boys. I loved Kenzo de Kenzo and for years could find it on-line, but helas, I think they stopped making it.
    The descriptions of it are ” floral mandarin,orange blossom, rose, carntion & cedarwood.” If you could recommend to me something similar I would appreciate it!
    We used to visit Belgium regularly as we lived in Lille for a while, its a beautiful country!

    Thank you,
    Dorothy Boillot September 4, 2013 at 2:39pm Reply

    • Victoria: It would be hard to find anything similar, because this perfume had lots of moss and spices, which are now restricted for the use in fragrance. I would suggest instead looking for richer florals. For instance, try Serge Lutens Fleurs d’Oranger or even Elie Saab Le Parfum. Also, what about Hermes 24 Faubourg, another orange blossom set into warm amber. September 4, 2013 at 4:59pm Reply

      • Dorothy Boillot: Thank you so much for taking the time, “quelle tristesse! snif snif. Will try your suggestions…

        Thanks again

        DBoillot September 4, 2013 at 5:25pm Reply

  • Belle: Hello again Victoria! I’ve another question. What is the gold standard of sandalwood? Thank you! September 8, 2013 at 11:20am Reply

    • Victoria: Always glad to talk about sandalwood, one of the notes that fascinate me the most. Classical gold standard would be Guerlain Samsara, but my personal one is Serge Lutens Santal de Mysore. It’s not a pure sandalwood, despite the name, but it captures all of the natural facets of sandalwood well.

      If you want more sandalwood ideas, here is a post I wrote last year about it:
      https://boisdejasmin.com/2012/07/sandalwood-roses-cream-perfume-ingredient.html September 9, 2013 at 8:11am Reply

    • Fazal Cheema: Victoria beat me to the punch. Guerlain Samsara Edp in vintage version which you can find on ebay (easy to tell because vintage EDP came in transparent bottles with golden cap). It is absolutely the benchmark in sandalwood fragrances September 11, 2013 at 3:28pm Reply

  • Fazal Cheema: Hi friends, one of the fragrances I absolutely love is Helmut Lang Cuiron and I am being a bit too conservative with my current supply. Cuiron is so unique that even after smelling over 1000 fragrances, I can’t think of a single one that even remotely reminds me of it. Given the vast perfume universe, is there a fragrance that may be similar to it. Given the uniqueness of Cuiron, even 50 percent similarity will be godsend. I particularly like the top suedy-plumy note of Cuiron and as some may know, Cuiron is pretty linear September 11, 2013 at 3:27pm Reply

    • Victoria: You’re definitely the Cuiron expert, so I doubt I can help in comparing anything to it. But if you would like more plums and leather, why not explore Serge Lutens Feminite du Bois? While it smells nothing like Cuiron, it has an elegant, austere character that you might find interesting. Serge Lutens Daim Blond is another interesting leather with a fruity twist (apricot). September 11, 2013 at 3:33pm Reply

      • Fazal Cheema: thanks Victoria for such prompt reply…I already own Feminite Du Bois (both Lutens and Shiseido versions) and also like vintage poison exactly for its plumy feeling..Like Feminite du Bois, Bois du Voilette is also another love and Daim Blonde is def. on purchase list…Cuiron is classified as leather but it is so different from any other leather I have smelled…I give credits to some other leathers like Knize Ten for being well made but Cuiron’s leather interpretation is the only one that took my breathe away. I love Lutens but more in oriental category. Until you pointed out, I had never considered feminite du bois as having leathery accent and other Lutens leathers such as Fumerie Turque again display lot of oriental traits to my nose. September 11, 2013 at 4:36pm Reply

        • Victoria: Some woods do, and the leather accent can be subtle but very intriguing. Cuiron is definitely not a typical leather, and it also has plenty of musks to give it that velvety, tender feeling. September 12, 2013 at 4:36am Reply

  • Carolina: Victoria,

    I have experimented and love perfumes from Annick Goutal, Tom Ford, Kenzo, L’Occitane, and Hermes.While I love their smells, I have a high sensitivity to chemicals and often start sneezing or get a headache from one distant spray of most perfumes. Can you recommend any natural perfumes or very close to natural that are also sexy and interesting? Do they exist? I realize they probably wouldn’t be as strong or as long lasting. Thank you for your thoughts.
    -allergic girl- January 24, 2014 at 12:04pm Reply

    • Victoria: Carolina, it sounds serious, and I would strongly recommend for you to consult your doctor first. It’s not a fact that natural perfumes are better for those suffering from allergies, because natural oils are complex mixtures and many are can exacerbate allergies further. January 24, 2014 at 12:11pm Reply

  • Tina: Hi Experts!
    To ge an idea of what I love and have the …

    Juliette Has A Gun Not A Perfume
    En Passant by Frederic Maille
    Chantal Thomas by same
    Unconditional Love by Philosophy
    Cheap and Chic by I love Love
    Daisy by Marc Jacobs
    L’Eau du Trente-Quatre by Diptyque and
    Portrait Of A Lady by Frederic Maille

    What I don’t like is the fake rose smell and fake vanilla smell. I love citrus and florals.

    I will appreciate any advice on others I would LOVE.

    I don’t want to spend more than $250 a bottle.

    Thank you all for any advice!!! February 4, 2014 at 4:06pm Reply

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