Recommend Me a Perfume : December 2016

This is our last “Recommend Me a Perfume” thread for the year. If you’ve used this feature before, we would love to hear what you discovered, and of course, if you need more help, please don’t hesitate to ask.  You can use this space to ask any questions about perfume, including fragrance recommendations, and of course, share your discoveries. Those who haven’t yet seen it, our Doctors Without Borders fundraiser has now 54 different prizes, including rarer than rubies Fendi Theorema, vintage Guerlain Mitsouko, and my perfume class. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to all of you!

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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 what you end up sampling. 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

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210 Comments

  • Nora Szekely: Dear Victoria and perfume lovers,
    What to wear on Christmas Eve? I love gourmands like Angel or Chopard Casmir but also dense chypre scents (Patou 1000 or Guerlain Mitsouko)
    Merry Christmas to all! December 22, 2016 at 8:00am Reply

    • Cornelia Blimber: Profumo Acqua di Parma. December 22, 2016 at 8:28am Reply

      • Nora Szekely: Thank you Cornelia, will sample it 🙂 December 22, 2016 at 8:32am Reply

    • Sandra: Have you ever tried Youth Dew? That could be nice for Christmas

      I will be in Afteliers Ancient Resins body oil December 22, 2016 at 9:04am Reply

      • Annie O: LOVE the Ancient Resins body oil! Amazing scent, and very Christmas-y, now that you bring it up! Good recommendation. December 22, 2016 at 11:55am Reply

      • Annie O: Victoria, I wanted to ask what the difference is in the scents and qualities of the damascene rose from Aleppo (now defunct) and the Bulgarian rose damascene? December 22, 2016 at 12:00pm Reply

      • Nora Szekely: I own and use the bath oil of Youth dew as perfume. It still has oakmoss in it 🙂 December 23, 2016 at 2:07am Reply

    • Heather H: Jubilation 25 amouage! Fantastic! December 22, 2016 at 10:06am Reply

      • Nora Szekely: I just went and bought it yesterday before reading your comment 🙂
        What a coincidence 🙂 December 23, 2016 at 4:38am Reply

    • briony: How about Caron’s Nuit de Noel? December 22, 2016 at 10:31am Reply

      • Patricia: That’s what I wear every Christmas Eve, Briony! It’s gourmand perfection, and I love the bottle. December 22, 2016 at 11:30am Reply

        • Tomate Farcie: me too! December 22, 2016 at 1:22pm Reply

          • Mia: Count me in the Nuit de Noel gang! December 23, 2016 at 8:58am Reply

        • Notturno7: I love NdN, too 😍
          Have been wearing it a lot during these holidays. Patricia, do you or anyone here know if the present day bottle is Baccarar too? Or just the vintage? January 2, 2017 at 4:13pm Reply

          • Notturno7: Arrrgggh! Baccarat! Phone correcting me again! January 2, 2017 at 4:14pm Reply

    • kpaint: I was thinking about wearing SSS Winter Woods or Coromandel, but after reading through this thread I’m considering Malle POAL, or possibly Parfum Sacre.

      For quite a few years I wore Atelier Orange Sanguine, which smells like Christmas to me (oranges and spices.) I’m fairly confident that it’s what I wore last year. December 24, 2016 at 3:50am Reply

  • Sandra: I love Fluer de Chine by Tom Ford, it’s discountinued and I am not about to shell out the money for a bottle online!
    Can anyone recommend something similar that won’t break the bank.

    Doctors without Borderes is a great charity and I am happy to contribute December 22, 2016 at 9:02am Reply

    • Mia: I find Chamade (I have edt) being very similar to Fleur de Chine. Its not too cheap but not too expensive either. Also Vent vert (1990s or before that) helps me to get my hyacinth. But there is so much going on in Fleur de Chine that you might seek some different type of similarity. Good luck! December 23, 2016 at 9:09am Reply

      • Sandra: Great suggestions thank you December 23, 2016 at 3:37pm Reply

    • Jehanne: Sandra, I am so glad you posted this question. I too love Fleur de Chine and am so sad that it has been discontinued. I’ve been anxiously looking around for a replacement perfume as well! December 24, 2016 at 11:18pm Reply

      • Renske: I love Fleur de Chine, and even if it’s not chique, I wear the Perfume Parlour dupe A LOT, the Moss Breches they do is great too! A 10ml rollerball is about 5 pounds and will last for quite a bit. The opening is a little weird, but the drydown is gorgeous. And as for buying dupes: hey, that’s what you get when you discontinue great perfumes 😉 December 25, 2016 at 4:33pm Reply

    • SophieC: Hello it is available from Harrods if you are in the U.K. December 29, 2016 at 1:16pm Reply

    • Notturno7: Hi Sandra, I have and love FdC and Chamade. Another perfume that has that old world glamour to me, is Amouage Gold for women. It might be too different for you but it’s worth trying. It’s stunning 💖 (but expensive too) January 2, 2017 at 4:22pm Reply

      • Sandra: Believe it or not , I have never tried Chamade!
        I have Gold so I will compare January 2, 2017 at 5:47pm Reply

  • spe: Isn’t it crazy that company d/c its best scent?!

    Similar in tone – 1932 Chanel perfume, but not identical December 22, 2016 at 9:15am Reply

    • Sandra: I have 1932, but I don’t like it at all December 22, 2016 at 11:53am Reply

  • Heather H: Looking for a beautiful floral to wear for Christmas/winter. Love all floral notes! December 22, 2016 at 10:05am Reply

    • Richard Potter: Dusita’s Melodie de L’Amour is a heavenly floral. December 22, 2016 at 10:29am Reply

      • Heather H: I have a sample of this, and my family said I smelled beautiful when I dabbed some on-I am highly considering a bottle. thank you! December 22, 2016 at 10:33pm Reply

      • mysterious_scent: I love Melodie de L’Amour too! January 3, 2017 at 8:52am Reply

    • Old Herbaceous: Have you tried Calligraphy Rose by Aramis? I love florals too, and usually lean toward green or white ones, but I also love rose scents and this one is more of an Oriental floral. Plenty of spices, frankincense, myrrh, together with the rose. Another really nice rose that works well in colder weather is Cabaret, by Gres. It is more floral, and less spicy, than Calligraphy Rose; and it is VERY affordable online. Even Luca Turin liked Cabaret! December 22, 2016 at 10:42am Reply

      • Heather H: I’ll try it. thank you! December 22, 2016 at 10:34pm Reply

    • WildDove: SL Fille de Berlin (spicy rose), YSL Black Opium, Chanel #5, Vol de Nuit. December 22, 2016 at 11:35am Reply

      • Heather H: Oooh! didn’t think about Chanel #5. one of my favorites, and my husband did buy me a bottle last Christmas. December 22, 2016 at 10:36pm Reply

    • kpaint: I love Chanel N° 22 in the winter; Beige holds up nicely in cool weather, too. Balenciaga Le Dix is lovely in frigid temps, as are Kenzo Flower, and L’Artisan Séville à l’Aube. TDC Bois d’Iris, Alaia Paris, Anais Anais, Fracas and Jour d’Hermès are florals I enjoy year-round. December 24, 2016 at 4:12am Reply

  • Aurora: This is to thank Cornelia, Lily, Hamamelis, Tati and Cybele (hoping not to have forgotten anyone) for having shared their choice of Christmas Eve perfumes in the November thread.

    I sampled and am so grateful to have made discoveries thanks to you all.

    The chosen one for Xmas Eve is Baghari, so, Cornelia, we will be scent sisters, it is exactly as you described it and a new addiction for me, I’ll finish my sample and dream of a bottle.

    On Xmas day, it will be Youth Dew Amber Nude, thank you Cybele – I will confess here that I acquired a bottle of this one as a ‘sample’- very silly and risky I know – as I was lucky on ebay and won an almost full 75ml bottle for £21 and the listings for this scent are crazy expensive usually. Burberry London for Men was the biggest surprise of the lot, loved it, Lily, your description was spot on, and I am looking forward to getting a bottle next year. The one I wasn’t able to sample is Frederic Malle Une Rose, Les Senteurs didn’t have it listed, so I will wait until I’m in Paris.

    Fragrant and Merry Xmas to all readers, commenters and Victoria. December 22, 2016 at 10:14am Reply

    • Cornelia Blimber: How nice to have a twin sister in perfume on Christmas evening! I will drink my glass of wodka on your health!

      HAPPY CHRISTMAS! December 22, 2016 at 11:46am Reply

    • Lily: I am so glad you sampled and enjoyed the Burberry! I think it is really underrated, maybe bc it’s so easy to find. It’s signed by Antoine Maisondieu (so?), and, man, does that gentleman know his way around spices 🙂

      Merry Christmas! December 22, 2016 at 12:13pm Reply

    • Cybele: great to hear this Aurora! I was wearing Bois des Iles this time December 29, 2016 at 6:27pm Reply

  • Sylvia: Thanks to all who recommended a perfume for me in November!
    SSS Rose Volupe came in a sample with the Champange Des Bois, Cocoa Sandalwood and Insence Pure.
    The CdB was sadly a scrubber for me :(. The incense pure is delightful and the Cocoa Sandal went up against SL Santal
    Majuscule. CS was a beautiful peach Cocoa sandal and very nice. The SL won because it’s a rose sandal combo and the my skin amps up the rose beautifully. There’s a. Gingerbread something baking in the end of it that seemed very Christmasy. My husband bought me a bottle and I’m really enjoying!
    The rose volupe was beautiful and I think inbred a bigger decant! December 22, 2016 at 10:42am Reply

    • Sylvia: Haha! Think I Need a bigger decant! December 22, 2016 at 10:43am Reply

  • Sylvia: Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all celebrating! ❤ December 22, 2016 at 10:52am Reply

    • Aurora: So glad you found a new perfume to love in Santal Majuscule, Sylvia, Merry Christmas. December 23, 2016 at 5:36am Reply

  • bill: Maybe someone could recommend me a leather scent? I’ve recently developped an interest in leather scents. I love my recent purchase of Bel Ami, and would like to try more. I like my bottle of Aramis Aramis, and my sample of Puredistance M as well.
    I usually dislike sweet, fruity or vanilla gourmand notes, so maybe avoid those heavy with these notes. 🙂 December 22, 2016 at 11:11am Reply

    • Sandra: Have you tried any leather perfumes from the Hermes line? December 22, 2016 at 11:18am Reply

      • briony: I love Cuir d”Ange! The original Bottega Veneta is nice too. And an oldie but goodie (and still fairly cheapie) is Estee Lauder’s Azuree. December 22, 2016 at 12:01pm Reply

        • bill: Hmm, I might check out the Bottega.
          I heard that Azuree and Aramis are very similar? December 22, 2016 at 1:04pm Reply

          • Briony: I can’t remember what Aramis smells like, but Azuree is quite haughty and dry – I can imagine it making a good masculine. December 22, 2016 at 5:51pm Reply

        • Mia: Seconding Azuree! It is gorgeous. December 23, 2016 at 9:13am Reply

          • Jennifer: Azure smells like September to me. Still plenty of warmth, but more crisp and dressy than summer. It’s like putting on an outfit that was carefully chosen for the first day of school. December 25, 2016 at 6:18am Reply

    • WildDove: The Hermes Bel Ami is one of the very best, also Bel Ami Vetiver. And Aramis. You may already have the best! December 22, 2016 at 11:31am Reply

      • bill: I’m curious of Bel Ami Vetiver. Actually I did tried layering Bel Ami and Encre Noire once, LOL. December 22, 2016 at 1:14pm Reply

    • Aurora: Perhaps you would like Acqua di Parma Colonia Leather (a citrus leather) no vanilla or gourmand notes. You have excellent, classic taste, I love Hermes Bel Ami and Aramis (my brother wears this one). I also like VC&A Midnight in Paris EDP very much and Dior Homme Intense (an iris leather) but you might find them a little too sweet. December 22, 2016 at 12:59pm Reply

      • bill: Thank you for the suggestion! And you are right! I tried Midnight in Paris before and all I remember was that cloying sweetness. I tried Dior Homme Intense last week and didn’t like it either. And Dior Homme Parfum as well. December 22, 2016 at 1:10pm Reply

    • SilverMoon: I am wearing Azuree today and immediately thought to recommend it, but I see briony has already done so. So here are two leather perfumes that you might enjoy – Memo’s Irish Leather and Knize 10. I absolutely love the latter both on my husband and myself. December 22, 2016 at 2:43pm Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: Hi Bill
        Maybe you know the famous leathers already:
        Cuir de Russie Chanel
        Cuir Mauresque Lutens
        Bandit (very, very dry!) piguet
        Knize Ten
        Tuscan Leather Tom Ford

        You could also try Memoir Man Amouage
        Gomma Etro

        Idole by Lubin smells like pure rhum, but the drydown is a fine leather. December 22, 2016 at 3:56pm Reply

        • Cornelia Blimber: And one of my favourites: Colonia Intensa, Acqua di Parma. Bitter, leathery, long lasting. December 22, 2016 at 3:58pm Reply

        • bill: Thank you for these suggestions Cornelia! I tried Memoir before but don’t remember it anymore. Cuir Mauresque is a bit difficult to find. I think I’m gonna try Knize Ten! December 22, 2016 at 6:02pm Reply

        • Clair: I emphatically second all those sophisticated leathers. I’m not sure which to recommend, but a leather-centric fragrance from Parfums de Nicolai or Nicolai Parfum would also be a good choice. December 22, 2016 at 7:04pm Reply

        • john: Hi Bill,

          I’d second the Knize Ten suggestion. None of the following are strictly leathers, but if you are avoiding sweetness and gourmand notes, and perhaps don’t mind getting a bit herbal, perhaps try:
          Caron Yatagan (bitter herbs, incense & horse-sweaty leather…more an evocation of leather than strictly leathery as it is sheer, not creamy.)
          Chanel Antaeus (a big initial blast of castoreum followed by classy, creamy beeswax and rose labdanum on a vetiver/patchouli base)
          Polo original (a heavy cigar tobacco accord lightened by vetiver and conifers, on a leather-patchouli drydown)
          All (esp the first) quite good for the winter season and Christmas. December 23, 2016 at 12:52pm Reply

          • bill: Nice, I like these herbal bitter even skanky scents. December 23, 2016 at 5:19pm Reply

    • George: Galop d’hermes is a rose leather that would make an interesting masculine.

      Also, if you trying Knize ten and Cuir de Russie (chanel), Cuir Cannage by Dior offers another take on a similar theme.

      You’ve also got Patchouli 24. Annick Amenardo’s crazy birchwood oriental that is a sort of “leather”

      Plus Fahrenheit (I have no idea what it is like currently) is also a must try. December 23, 2016 at 12:02pm Reply

      • spe: Agree with Galop and I’ll add Diorling by Dior. December 27, 2016 at 10:18am Reply

    • nozknoz: L’Artisan Parfumeur Dzing! is one of the best and most versatile. Also worth trying are PG Cuir Venenum, Heeley Cuir Pleine Fleur, and SL Daim Blond. December 23, 2016 at 2:56pm Reply

      • bill: Dzing would probably be too sweet for me. I cringed at the mention of caramel LOL. Have you tried Dzongkha? I used to hate it but now I kinda find it intriguing. December 23, 2016 at 5:12pm Reply

      • MrsDalloway: Heeley Cuir Pleine Fleur is one of my favourites, along with Cuir d’Ange. I also love Cuir de Lancôme. It’s discontinued but you could try Parfumerie Moderne Cuir X, which has similarities but is more masculine. December 24, 2016 at 3:07am Reply

    • Tomate Farcie: my favorite leathers Anne Gerard Cuir de Nacre, cuir de Russie, Tabac Blond and Lutens Boxeuses, Daim Blond, Cuir Mauresque December 23, 2016 at 3:29pm Reply

    • AnnieA: Cuirs by Carner Barcelona is a nice leather, quite masculine. December 23, 2016 at 8:16pm Reply

    • Surbhi: I like Odin no 12 when I am in mood for that strong leather smell. There is nothing sweet or floral in this one though. December 23, 2016 at 10:22pm Reply

    • limegreen: Love the suggestions, especially Cuir Cannage (Dior)
      In case you want to try fireplace smoky leather:
      Naomi Goodsir Cuir Velours

      or leather jacket leather:
      Byredo Bullion

      (I was on a leather kick myself) December 23, 2016 at 11:22pm Reply

      • Karen A: Many thanks for sharing your leather kick! December 24, 2016 at 10:46am Reply

        • limegreen: I still think of Cuir Cannage as Cutie Cabbage because of your autocorrect! :> December 24, 2016 at 5:43pm Reply

        • limegreen: Merry Christmas, Karen! December 24, 2016 at 5:44pm Reply

    • kpaint: You have great suggestions already, but I’ll also add Annick Goutal Duel to the list. December 24, 2016 at 4:14am Reply

  • Kate: I’ve been thinking about this question for a little while. What do y’all think a sexy green scent would smell like? I’m not limited in terms of taste; I like scents of all types, and I’m more interested in hearing responses of all kinds. December 22, 2016 at 1:13pm Reply

    • Lily: Silences! It is almost a warm green bc it has a musky base and just enough floral sweetness to temper the green. I find it very alluring on, and men seem to find it so as well. It also fits how I would conceive of a sexy green scent on an abstract level (add warmth + musk + some traditional marker of a seductive perfume). December 22, 2016 at 2:50pm Reply

    • SilverMoon: hi Kate,
      I have been thinking about what could be green and sexy. I guess it depends on what one sees as sexy. So sticking to the green and lovely, I thought vetivers might be one way to go (Malle or Diptyke or Guerlin, etc) or pretty teas (Bulgari thé Vert). I also would suggest Hermes Un Jardin sur le Toit or Hiram Green Arbolé Arbolé. Both green, but different from each other. And i love Malle’s En Passant (lilacs and rainwater) which I think of as green.
      I would love to hear what you think is sexy and green? December 22, 2016 at 3:22pm Reply

      • SilverMoon: Sorry, Diptyque. December 22, 2016 at 3:29pm Reply

      • Mia: Arbole Arbole really fits the bill, imo, too. December 23, 2016 at 9:16am Reply

      • Marie: I agree on the vetivers. Wearing Sycomore makes me feel like being one of those 1940ies divas, very sexy! December 23, 2016 at 9:56am Reply

      • kpaint: Hmm. I love green scents but I tend toward the fresh and bright variety which doesn’t really line up with sexy. From my own collection, Chanel Cristalle Eau Verte might come closest. It’s an interesting question to contemplate. December 24, 2016 at 4:22am Reply

      • Surbhi: Carnal flower. Green and super sexy. December 24, 2016 at 11:07am Reply

      • SHMW: I think Ormonde Jayne Woman fits the green and sexy brief…… December 27, 2016 at 7:51am Reply

    • OnWingsofSaffron: I find that “L’ombre dans l’eau” by Diptyque fits the bill. December 22, 2016 at 3:47pm Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: Sexy and green? to be honest I have no idea ..maybe a little bit sharp and biting? La belle dame sans merci ? Well, maybe Estee Lauder Jasmine White Moss! December 22, 2016 at 4:03pm Reply

    • Aurora: What an interesting question. To me the blast of galbanum in the 1990s Vent Vert , because it’s so strong, so green comes on as very sexy. I also agree with Lily about Silences so green too. December 22, 2016 at 4:13pm Reply

    • Tati: Hi Kate,
      My signature scent for years was Must de Cartier, and I think it might qualify for your sexy green scent. Top notes include galbanum, and then it moves to jasmin and vanilla. The new Must Gold is supposed to be a lighter, more modern version, or you can go old school with the heavier perfume, which is my holy grail scent for evening. December 23, 2016 at 12:37am Reply

    • Austenfan: Surely Bandit would fit that description? December 23, 2016 at 1:00pm Reply

    • Dorothy Van Daele: I like Donna Karan Gold – green, lily. Surprisingly inexpensive sometimes on eBay. December 24, 2016 at 5:37pm Reply

  • Hayley: Hi would anyone have any recommendations for a hyacinth scented fragrance? I really fancy something fresh for new year 😊 December 22, 2016 at 2:45pm Reply

    • Aurora: Both Guerlain Chamade and Chanel Cristalle Eau de Toilette have a beautiful hyacinth note, there must be others. December 23, 2016 at 5:39am Reply

      • Aurora: I just remembered Cacharel Anais Anais has a distinct hyacinth note too. December 23, 2016 at 6:00am Reply

        • Hayley: Ooh lovely will track down and try these in the new year, thank you 😊 December 23, 2016 at 1:36pm Reply

    • kayliz: For spring days, Cristalle EdP, and Chamade in the evening:) December 23, 2016 at 5:42am Reply

      • kayliz: Hah! Great minds:) December 23, 2016 at 5:49am Reply

        • Cornelia Blimber: Agree on Chamade. The best hyacinths to be found. Too much of them for me, give me my headache. I prefer Grand Amour (Goutal), lots of hyacinths too but less shining. Softer.
          There are also hyacinths in Silences, and Fidji (Laroche). If you can appreciate a slightly metallic hyacinth: Bas de Soie (Lutens). December 23, 2016 at 6:18am Reply

          • Hayley: I am a big fan of annick goutal mandragore so am looking forward to trying grand amour now thank you December 23, 2016 at 1:37pm Reply

          • Hayley: I also love the sound of bas de soie, have a good list to try in new year, thank you everyone 😀 December 23, 2016 at 1:43pm Reply

        • Aurora: 🙂 December 23, 2016 at 7:17am Reply

    • Mia: Seconding (or thirding or fourthing?) Chamade. But I find Anna Paghera’s Blu d’Arabie being very beautiful hyacinth and extremely fresh with wonderful tenacity. December 23, 2016 at 9:19am Reply

      • Hayley: Chamade definitely seems a favourite thank you I can’t wait to test. I think Anna Paghera will be harder to track down (am in uk) December 23, 2016 at 1:41pm Reply

        • Mia: Yeah, it is not that easily accessible. However, First in Fragrance has it, and as far as I understand, ships also to UK. December 23, 2016 at 8:02pm Reply

    • Morelle: Lutens’ Bas de Soie has a lovely hyacinth note, though overall the iris in it tends to dominate. I wear it in late winter, early spring. It’s perfect for that time of year, combining icy notes with spring flowers. December 23, 2016 at 7:01pm Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: I love your description of Bas de Soie! December 24, 2016 at 3:37am Reply

      • Hayley: I cannot wait to try bas de soie now, this sounds very up my street 😀 December 27, 2016 at 2:48pm Reply

    • JetticaBettica: Have you ever tried Parfums MDCI’s En Coeur En Mai? Lovely and fresh with a hyacinth note. December 23, 2016 at 8:44pm Reply

      • Hayley: Ooh lovely I haven’t come across MDCI perfumes and this sounds delicious but I’d be worried about falling for it as its a tad pricey, Eek! Will definitely sniff at some point though thank you it’s on the list. December 27, 2016 at 2:45pm Reply

      • mysterious_scent: Just notice you have recommended Un Coeur en Mai already 🙂
        (nodding through the Internet) January 3, 2017 at 8:50am Reply

    • mysterious_scent: Try Un Coeur en Mai by MDCI. My personal favourite, best for Spring January 3, 2017 at 8:49am Reply

    • Jill Parry: Penhaligon’s Bluebell has that wet spring earthy fragrance of hyacinths. It has clove to add spice notes. January 6, 2017 at 12:17pm Reply

      • Hayley: Hi Jill thanks for the recommendation, I didn’t realise bluebell had hyacinth in it. I will definitely be able to try this next time I visit a penhaligons store 😀 January 6, 2017 at 3:08pm Reply

        • Jill Parry: Yes, in fact bluebells and hyacinth are the same family. Think you’ll love it. January 6, 2017 at 3:33pm Reply

  • OnWingsofSaffron: I recently bought a large, sealed bottle of “Eau de Verveine” by Guerlain on Ebay. I hesitate to open it: does anyone know the scent by any chance? If so, how does it fare, apart of smelling of verveine? Thanks in advance and Merry Christmas to all. December 22, 2016 at 3:57pm Reply

    • Cornelia Blimber: Oh yes, I had a bottle of Verveine many years ago! It is clear, even a little bit sour in a good way, very refreshing. If it was a colour, it would be bright yellow/green. I have a few drops left, right under my Nose, now!
      Enjoy! December 22, 2016 at 4:09pm Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: I smelled a note of Verveine in Sous le Vent, now sadly discontinued. December 22, 2016 at 4:11pm Reply

        • OnWingsofSaffron: Thanks for your quick response! Ilike the colour description: a yellow/green scent sounds great! I might wait for Spring / Summer, though, before opening the bottle. Merci! December 23, 2016 at 12:41am Reply

  • Josey: Can anyone rec me a perfume similar to Bvlgari The au Rouge but in EDP concentration? (Crisp and breezy woody oriental) December 22, 2016 at 6:52pm Reply

    • Aurora: That’s a little difficult to find, tea, walnuts, fig.

      I’ll list a few figs for you: Diptyque Philosykos EDP, really lovely, l’Artisan Parfumeur Premier Figuier extreme (fig with coconut, lasts very well) or Caligna a woody fig really nice in summer, Miller Harris Figue Amere (bitter fig in English) or Thierry Mugler Womanity Liqueur de Parfum if you can find it, it’s a woody, salty fig.

      Or a tea fragrance, perhaps l’Artisan Parfumeur Tea for Two or Phaedon Cendres de The. Hope you will discover what you are looking for. December 26, 2016 at 1:48pm Reply

  • Marianna: Looking for immortele recommendations. I really like Immortele Blanche by Atelier Cologne. Any other recommendations? Thank you!! December 22, 2016 at 11:41pm Reply

    • Nora Szekely: Hi Marianna,
      Have you tried Sables by Annick Goutal?
      It is maybe a masculine scent but quite haunting and I wear it myself occasionally. December 23, 2016 at 7:02am Reply

    • briony: I find there’s a big immortelle note in Etat Libre d’Orange’s ‘Like This’. December 23, 2016 at 7:03am Reply

      • briony: And ‘Sables’ by Annick Goutal. That one’s lovely too. December 23, 2016 at 7:04am Reply

      • George: Also their Afternoon of the Faun. December 23, 2016 at 9:21am Reply

    • Tomate Farcie: Maurice Roucel did L by Lolita Lempicka. I think it’s a sleeper. Great with 10 Corso Como December 23, 2016 at 3:35pm Reply

    • Austenfan: A great many great recommendations already but a few that have not been mentioned yet: 1740 by Histoires de Parfums, Fougère Bengale by Parfums d’Empire, L’Etre aimé Femme by Divine, Dior Eau Noire. December 24, 2016 at 7:14am Reply

  • Inma: Hello!
    I had a sample of Eau de Ciel de Annick Goutal that I thought it was going to be perfect for the hot summer here in Seville, but it was too heavy for me at that time.

    And I am enjoying a lot with it these days. It is around 12º these days in my sity and, for me, it smells a little fresh – not too much – with a warm pink note that keeps for a long time.

    I am surprised with it and I wanted to share.

    Reading all of you I am wondering what to wear on Christmas´s Eve.

    Happy Christmas to all of you! December 23, 2016 at 8:25am Reply

    • Aurora: Hello Inma, thank you for sharing, so glad you are enjoying Eau du Ciel, it’s a wonderful perfume, and it’s so true scents change along with seasons. December 26, 2016 at 12:43pm Reply

  • Hans Chin C.: Hi all, I’m now looking for something that is light like Jo Malone / Hermes colognes, but not as pricey, and is interesting (though elusive). I also want to know if anything from the Roger & Gallet line is good?

    Merry Christmas! Diptyque Eau Duelle EDP is my choice is my choice for Christmas’s Eve. I think SL Fille en aiguilles is also good. December 23, 2016 at 11:56am Reply

    • AnnieA: A friend and her husband loved R&G’s Bois d’Orage so much it was on their wedding register! December 23, 2016 at 8:27pm Reply

    • Old Herbaceous: I like the Hermes Jardin series very much, as well as several Jo Malone scents. Have you tried any of Penhaligon’s? They have some lovely, light, interesting florals. I love Ostara (sadly, d/c) and Blasted Bloom. You can find Penhaligon’s online at quite reasonable prices; and their own website has a sale section. I snapped up a back up bottle of Ostara there when it was on sale after Christmas last year. December 24, 2016 at 12:00am Reply

    • Aurora: Hello: I have used R&G Fleur d’Osmanthus with great pleasure this summer. Check out Victoria’s review. Also I don’t know where you live but if you go to the online discounters Bvlgari Tea series (bleu, blanc, rouge, vert and black) is a good option, not very expensive and you might find one that suits. December 26, 2016 at 2:28pm Reply

  • Elizabeth: Hello – I am looking for a new fragrance. I have worn these in the past: No 5 Eau Premiere, Fracas, Narciso EDT (black bottle), Bulgari Vert, Kai oil.

    I’ve purchased decants of SL La Fille de Berlin, Chanel Bois des Iles, Chanel Cuir De Russie. Liked them but not enough to buy full bottles.

    I tried samples of Portrait of a Lady and Coromandel, Coco, TF Cafe Rose — all too heavy for me. Found Coco Mademoiselle too screechy and Chanel 19 too…something. The only Jo Malone I’ve remotely liked was Orange Blossom, but not sure it’s full-bottle worthy.

    I veer away from amber and fruity notes, but I’m trying to keep an open mind. Tend to love white florals and citrus. I want to find that next “wow” scent. I’ve bought from the Perfumed Court to sample, love trying things in little decants. Thanks for any advice. December 23, 2016 at 1:26pm Reply

    • Surbhi: Carnal flower ? December 23, 2016 at 10:27pm Reply

      • Elizabeth: Thank you, Surbhi – Yes, I’ve sampled Carnal Flower and it’s wonderful. Narcotic like Fracas, but more subtle somehow. December 24, 2016 at 9:38am Reply

    • Tomate Farcie: Take a look at Parfums DelRae, I think they do a great job with florals. Hiram Green Moon Bloom, Aroma M Camelia, Vera Profumo Mito, Annick Goutal Songes December 23, 2016 at 10:29pm Reply

      • Elizabeth: Thank you, Tomate Farcie — I’ve tried Songes, it didn’t last on me but it hits all the notes I love. I’ll check out the others you recommended. December 24, 2016 at 9:40am Reply

    • katherine x: Hi Elizabeth, You might try Chanel Exclusifs’ Beige (white floral, honeyish) and Van Cleef Exclusif’s Gardenia (slightly carnal and powdery). Eau de Patou has a citrus twist. Highly recommend Le Labo’s Bergamote and Neroli. Frederic Malle’s Bigarade Concentree is a great citrus rind. December 23, 2016 at 10:54pm Reply

      • Elizabeth: Thank you, katherine x — I had a little decant of Beige, but gave it away. One of the notes (freesia?) didn’t appeal to me. I will definitely order decants of the VC Gardenia, and Eau de Patou. I love all of these ideas, everyone, thank you again for replying! December 24, 2016 at 9:46am Reply

    • Old Herbaceous: I haven’t tried this myself, and I don’t know how you feel about Luca Turin’s reviews. but he gave high praise to Fleurs et Flammes by Antonio Alessandria on the blog he had briefly. Its top notes are: bergamot, citrus, summer fruits, galbanum, green and mineral notes; middle notes: carnation, rose, lily, white flowers; base notes: soft woods, almond milk, musks. December 23, 2016 at 11:47pm Reply

      • Elizabeth: Thank you, Old Herbaceous — I wasn’t aware of his blog, but I just looked at it (and plan to listen to his TED talk). Fleurs et Flammes sounds so interesting and gorgeous. I did not see it on the Perfumed Court’s website. I’ll check Lucky Scent for samples. December 24, 2016 at 9:58am Reply

    • Lily: Houbigant Orangeur en Fleur, it’s citrus and spice and white flowers. Orange blossom and jasmine. It is my very favorite perfume. The review on this site is spot-on for my experience with it.

      The other orange blossom/white flower/spice is Serge Lutens Fleurs d’oranger, which I personally found too heavy on the narcotic/indolic jasmine/tuberose side, but I am sensitive to that note, and it’s a perfume with many fans here. I marked it as well made but not for me.

      I have recently fallen for the new Chanel 5 flanker, L’Eau. I don’t know how similar it is to Eau Premiere, but from what I gather L’Eau emphasizes the citrus and florals so it might be one you’d enjoy.

      Chloe L’Eau de Chloe (discontinued but still readily available) is a sparkling lemon-rose-clean patchouli scent. I find it the perfect feminine “cologne” and very good for being either casual or elegant depending on what you are doing.

      I think those are about all the things in my wardrobe which might match your criteria. Happy hunting! December 24, 2016 at 8:48am Reply

      • Elizabeth: Thank you, Lily – I’ve just ordered a decant of the Orangeur en Fleur, I’m excited to try it. I’ve sampled the new No 5 flanker, and while it’s lovely, I still prefer Eau Premiere.

        I will test the Chloe you recommend, because the rose/patchouli would be a departure for me (the lemon/clean aspect you mention is what I’m drawn to). Thank you for all of your recommendations. December 24, 2016 at 10:09am Reply

        • Kari: Fleurs d’oranger is beautiful if you enjoy orange blossom and jasmine.
          I don’t get the overdose of indoles or spices others mention, but admittedly I’m not sensitive to those notes. December 25, 2016 at 5:13pm Reply

  • Alice: Hello, I am looking for the perfect jasmine perfume. I prefer the watery green indolic jasminum sambac over the grandiflorum variety. Serge Lutens a la nuit was just soap and poop to me. I got no white floral smell. More specifically, I am looking for a realistic jasmine soliflore that feels very warm, feminine, and vaguely like spicy warm skin. Tropical, with no coconut. Animalic without poop. Floral/soft balsamic without powder. And without any weird musty plastic gasoline notes that tend to come with too much tuberose in the mix. Everything I try seems to be a bit off to my nose. Please help! December 23, 2016 at 7:17pm Reply

    • AnnieA: Keiko Mecheri’s Jasmine (now called Clair Obscur?) is pretty and straightforward. Yves Rocher has, or had a nice jasmine too. December 23, 2016 at 8:23pm Reply

    • JetticaBettica: Diptyque’s Olene, if you haven’t tried it, has one of the most beautiful openings of all time, IMHO, and then dries down to a pretty jasmine scent. Kilian’s Love and Tears is also a very beautiful jasmine. December 23, 2016 at 8:32pm Reply

    • Tomate Farcie: Annick Goutal Songes, By Kilian Love and Tears December 23, 2016 at 10:36pm Reply

    • Surbhi: I second love and tears. Also, Lush’s lust perfume. It is pure jasmine smell.

      The other option that I like a lot is jasmine absolute diluted with moisturizer or oil. In another post Victoria mentioned she likes to apply it on her scarf or clothing. Probably jasmine absolute directly or diluted. December 25, 2016 at 9:00am Reply

    • kayliz: Horribly expensive, but your description sounds to me just like Perfectly Marvelous by Diana Vreeland.
      Can send a sample with pleasure — my address is kaydothennsquigglyfreenetdotde 🙂 December 25, 2016 at 7:27pm Reply

      • Alice: Omg THIS. I looked it up on fragrantica and it sounds so perfect. Thank you so much kayliz! I will be trying it out for sure. December 26, 2016 at 5:53pm Reply

        • kayliz: Offer stands! I bought a reduced bottle for a split, was unclever with the decanting, and ended up with a sample spray left over. It would be good to send it to a loving home:) December 26, 2016 at 9:58pm Reply

  • JetticaBettica: I crave roses all year round, but the craving becomes nearly obsessive in the wintertime. I am hoping that perhaps you might help me expand my collection? My favorites are La Fille de Berlin, Nahema, SSS Rose Volupté and Une Rose. I have tried some of the other more popular roses in this vein: Lyric, Rossy de Palma Eau de Protection, Paestum Rose, Parfum Sacre, Rose Cut, and Portrait of a Lady. I loved POAL years ago– it was a bit much for me then, and now it has changed enough that it no longer feels the same. I have been trying out CB IHP’s Tea/Rose, and I really love it, but it doesn’t last long at all on me, even in oil form. Have I missed any good ones? I thank you and wish you Happy Holidays 😀 December 23, 2016 at 7:30pm Reply

    • Marianna: Have you tried any of Andy Tauer’s roses – no one does roses like hin. PHI is amazing, and his Rose oil is divine. He pretty much has a rose for each taste. The other rose I would highly recommend is Rose de Petra by SHL 777 and Epine Mortale by LM. They are very different but both are amazing. BTW< I am a huge fab of La Fille de Berlin, and I heard that Ruse de Nuit by Serve Lutens is amazing (but have not personally tried it) December 23, 2016 at 10:18pm Reply

      • JetticaBettica: Thank you so much, Marianna! I have tried a few of AT’s roses and others, but sadly there was something that just did not work on me. My skin ruined them. I will try PHI anyway, you never know, and I have been very curious about the oil, so I will definitely try that too. I had never heard of Epine Mortelle and it sounds wonderful! It has been years since I tried Rose de Nuit, and I liked it very much, though at the time I didn’t think the Rose was quite prominent enough for me. But thanks for the reminder– I will try again, and I hope you get to try it soon too 😀 My best to you! December 23, 2016 at 11:30pm Reply

        • JetticaBettica: Oh, and Marrianna I meant to tell you something kind of funny– last week I actually received a Rose de Petra sample in the mail, tried to open it over the sink and spilled it! But it smelled just gorgeous. Your recommendation encourages me to order another sample 😀 December 23, 2016 at 11:35pm Reply

    • Tomate Farcie: Neela Vermeire Mohur, Ormonde Jayne Tai’f, Parfums DelRae Bois de Paradis, a cheap thrill Grès Cabaret December 23, 2016 at 10:43pm Reply

      • JetticaBettica: Tomate, thank you! Would you recommend Mohur extrait or edp? I am looking forward to trying all of these 😀 They sound wonderful. December 23, 2016 at 11:39pm Reply

        • Surbhi: I like extract more. Edp was very sweet on my skin December 24, 2016 at 11:12am Reply

      • Tomate Farcie: I love them both… so not much help there, have fun trying them! December 24, 2016 at 4:54pm Reply

      • JetticaBettica: Thank you, Tomate and Surbhi. I will try them both and hope that the least expensive wins 😀 December 26, 2016 at 4:28pm Reply

    • Old Herbaceous: I love roses too! Have you tried any of the Parfums de Rosine line? They are all rose-based, and there is a wide range. Lots of variety. I have Rose d’Amour, which I like very much. December 23, 2016 at 11:54pm Reply

      • JetticaBettica: Old Herbaceous, I love hearing that you are partial to roses too! I tried a couple of Rosine’s offerings about ten years ago, and I think it is time to try again. I will begin with Rose d’Amour. Thank you so much! December 26, 2016 at 4:32pm Reply

    • spe: The Francis Kurdjian Rose Lumiere and Cartier Goutte de rose – they’re on opposite sides of the spectrum. December 24, 2016 at 1:16am Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: Second Cabaret.
        I love the rose in Nuit de Longchamp (Lubin) and Mille (Patou). December 24, 2016 at 3:33am Reply

      • JetticaBettica: Thank you! It is good to revisit lighter roses– it has been awhile, and I look forward to trying out your suggestions. December 26, 2016 at 4:39pm Reply

    • kpaint: I feel the same way about roses. A few that haven’t yet been mentioned but are personal faves: Tom Ford Cafe Rose, Nirvana Rose, Atelier Rose Anonyme, Ann Gérard Rose Cut, Guerlain Rose Nacrée du Desert, Hermès Rose Ikebana, Jean-Charles Brosseau Ombre Rose, all of the Marnis (though I prefer them in warmer weather,) YSL Paris.

      I like almost all of the Rosines and love a lot of them, particularly Rose Kashmirie, Rose Praliné, Secrets de Rose and Glam Rose.

      For what it’s worth, I think I’ve tried all of the Tauer roses and none of them work for me, except PHI, which is one of my absolute favorite fall/winter fragrances. That said, I don’t find it particularly rose-centric and thus don’t think of it as a rose perfume. It’s warm and spicy with amber and patchouli. If you like Chanel Coromandel, it might appeal to you. I’ve also tried his rose oil and it’s very nice, though not what I expected. It’s warm and plush rather than fresh and floral, which is what I had in my mind before I tried it. December 24, 2016 at 3:44am Reply

      • JetticaBettica: Thank you for helping a fellow rose lover expand! Onto my list your recommendations go. Cannot wait to try them 😀 December 26, 2016 at 4:45pm Reply

    • kayliz: I’d definitely add Papillon’s Tobacco Rose to the list. Happy sniffing! December 25, 2016 at 7:33pm Reply

      • JetticaBettica: Done and Done! Thank you, Kayliz 😀 December 26, 2016 at 4:46pm Reply

    • SHMW: I am not really a fan od roses but I tried Ormonde Jayne Rose gold because this is a variant of their Black Gold (beautiful with wonderful sandalwood) and I love this variant as well. It is a strong rose note. Sherbet-y rose bliss but I don’t know what a rose fan would make of it……. December 27, 2016 at 9:42am Reply

    • Kari: One more I would add (very glad that Papillon Tobacco Rose was mentioned) is Le Mat by Mendittorosa. It’s marvelously complex and spicy, and the Rose is so beautiful. It’s haunted me ever since I sampled it. December 29, 2016 at 9:21pm Reply

    • SilverMoon: Have you tried any of the Parfums de Rosine? They only do roses. Among the ones I like best are La Rose de Rosine, Rose Kashmirie and Roseberry. All are very different so might be interesting to see which suits you best. They also make lovely soaps. I especially like the Rose Kashmirie one. It leaves a lovely scent on the skin and perfumes the bathroom too.

      Happy New Year to Everyone! January 2, 2017 at 11:12am Reply

  • Tracy: Any recommendation for either a honey or amber fragrance (or a combination of both notes)?

    Something reminiscent of Ambre Sultan but less bay-leafy. It’s a warm Christmas for me down under. 🙂 December 24, 2016 at 5:41am Reply

    • Tomate Farcie: I love Hermes Eau des Ambre Merveilles and Hermes Ambre Narguile. An inexpensive one you might find (discontinued) is Barbara Bui. I also am a big fan of Parfums DelRae Bois de Paradis. A lighter Amber is I Profumi di Firenze Ambre de Nepal. Also Maitre Parfumeur & Gantier Ambre Precieux. Histoires de Parfum Ambre Parfum. December 24, 2016 at 5:09pm Reply

    • Liz: For a delicious honey/Amber scent I absolutely adore “O” by Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab. It’s simple, but beautiful. I find it extremely sensual and don’t wear it unless I want to feel romantic and sexy. It’s cheap too and long lasting. It doesn’t have a lot of complexity, but sometimes it’s unnecessary. December 26, 2016 at 3:25pm Reply

      • Tracy: Thank you, Liz and Tomate. The only fact stopping me now is the shipping rate! December 27, 2016 at 5:19am Reply

    • SophieC: For a honey note I recommend Centrepiece by 1460 Tuesdays. Very lovely and warm and elegant as well. December 29, 2016 at 1:32pm Reply

    • Kari: Hongrie by Viktoria Minya is a great honey fragrance. Slumberhouse Kiste is quite honeyed as well (boozy tea, peach, tobacco, and honey.) December 29, 2016 at 9:23pm Reply

    • SilverMoon: Two recommendations here. I love Memo’s Ilha de Mel. It’s a tropical flowers and honey perfume – soft and warm. It is supposed to be Brazil inspired.. Also, have you tried Montale Blue Amber? or their Honey Amber? The latter would cover both notes you require.

      I am going to test some of the other suggestions. Especially intrigued by SophieC’s 4126 Tuesdays recommendation. January 2, 2017 at 11:20am Reply

    • kpaint: Have you tried Ginestet Botrytis? It’s a honeyed scent that is light enough for warmer weather. I’d also put YSL Cinema in this category, which is worth trying if you haven’t yet. January 2, 2017 at 4:12pm Reply

  • Alx: Dear Boisdejasmin and scented friends,

    I has been very fond of Sycomore until Chanel’s new EDP reformulation.

    Please help me to find my day and night signature : manly, elegant and no show-off.

    I dislike Gourmand, Fougère and fragrances too musky. I love (eau de) cologne like Angélique sous la pluie or Eau frappée but not “fleshy” enough for a signature, still great in Summer.

    I wore Bel ami (a bit strong), Déclaration d’un soir (too much rose), Santal massoïa (too smooth), Vétiver extraordinaire (signature of a friend).

    Thanks!
    From Paris December 24, 2016 at 12:06pm Reply

    • Surbhi: Hi,

      Do you know When was sycomore reformulated ? I have been contemplating getting a bottle but if it’s reforumlated recently then I will have to try it again and hence would like to know. December 25, 2016 at 8:53am Reply

      • Alx: This year as the all exclusive range. December 26, 2016 at 12:01pm Reply

    • Tomate Farcie: I still love Lalique Encre Noire and the Guerlain Vetiver. Ormonde Jayne Man and OJ Woman. Don’t know if you like leather Guerlain Arsène Lupin and Serge Lutens Boxeuses December 25, 2016 at 11:15pm Reply

      • Alx: Thanks Tomate Farcie. Not a big Guerlain fan but I’d check ! December 26, 2016 at 12:05pm Reply

  • Lolo: Looking ahead to spring: I have an old established grouping of purple iris that bloom in late spring and smell strongly of fizzy grape soda. Can you recommend an iris fragrance that includes a “grape soda” note? Thanks and happy holidays to all from this first-time poster! December 24, 2016 at 3:35pm Reply

    • Tomate Farcie: These are on the powder side, not sure if these will fit the bill – Frederic Malle Iris Poudre or L’Eau d’Hiver,Annick Goutal Heure Exquise,maybe more wordy than you want – Van Cleef & Arpel Bois d’Iris, Ramon Monegal Impossible Iris. Again, I’m not sure if any of these are what you’re looking for, but the hunt is half the fun! December 24, 2016 at 10:11pm Reply

      • Lolo: I love L’Eau d’Hiver but find it to be soft and snugly, not grapey. Plan to try Iris Poudre and the VC&A Iris. Thanks for the recs! December 25, 2016 at 5:58pm Reply

    • George: Iris as used in perfumery is the root, not the flower. I’m not sure of the difference between the root and the flower in terms of smell, but I know that the root alone does not tend to have a grape soda note. If you are looking for a grape soda note, you might be better looking at florals with ylang ylang and tuberose in them, as they do do tend to contain methyl anthranilate. If you want a really grapey white floral for example, try Vilhelm perfumeries Fleur Burlesque, and also Dior’s Poison which used to be really grapey. However, neither of these smell at all Irisy, in terms of the root….. December 25, 2016 at 5:42am Reply

      • George: (and the fizzy- or maybe sherbet aspect- you mention sounds like the flower does to some degree smell also like the root) December 25, 2016 at 5:42am Reply

      • Lolo: Appreciate the info re grapey florals. Will check out the Vilhelm. I have (and love) Tubereuse Criminelle. Remember wearing Poison back in the day….. December 25, 2016 at 7:23pm Reply

    • Karen A: The fragrance of Iris flowers is one of my favorites and I have yet to find a perfume that captures it. As George wrote, it is the root that is used so when you see Iris listed as a note, the scent has very little to do with the flower. So you get a woody, dry more earthy note than the delicate effervescent scent of the flowers.

      It’s been a challenge as most fragrances with Iris listed don’t resonate for me, so I gave up on perfumes listing Iris. if you find something that does reflect the scent of the flower, please let us/me know! December 25, 2016 at 8:46am Reply

      • Ida: A good example of a fragrance focusing on the iris petals is Iris Nobile by Acqua di Parma. December 25, 2016 at 2:22pm Reply

        • Lolo: Have been curious about this one also. December 25, 2016 at 7:36pm Reply

    • Kari: This is such a tangent, so forgive me, but I’m amused and intrigued by the mention of “grape soda.” We have pet rats and others have described the scent of their fur to be like grape soda. I will have to smell some iris flowers and see if I can pick it up.

      I also have trouble with the rooty, chilly aroma of iris root in perfume compared to the blossom. December 25, 2016 at 5:21pm Reply

      • Lolo: Had no idea that rats’ fur could smell grapey. :). Online references mention certain old varieties of purple iris as being grape soda or grape kool-aid scented. Some rust or ginger iris apparently smell like root beer. I planted some stargazer lilies last summer which had a lovely fragrance. December 25, 2016 at 7:44pm Reply

  • Anu: I would like to thank all the wonderful perfumistas that gave recommendations to me in the September “recommend me a perfume”. Sorry, it took so long to report back but it took a while to procure all the samples and to try them all. I am happy to report that I fell in love with “Parfum Sacre” by Caron and am now the proud owner of a full bottle. I also got some decants of Chanel Coromandel & 31 Rue Cambon, Annick Goutal Heure Exquise.
    Thank you again! Happy Holidays everyone! December 24, 2016 at 7:46pm Reply

    • Lily: Parfum Sacre is one of my all time faves! So happy to see someone else fall under its spell. Happy holidays! December 25, 2016 at 9:01am Reply

  • Kari: Question: If I fell in love with Fendi Theorema (managed to find a barely used bottle for a good price, and love it; can’t believe it would be discontinued!), what else would I probably like? This is SUCH a great perfume.

    I love spicy Serge Lutens fragrances and Kenzo Jungle L’Elephant. I didn’t love Kenzo Jungle Tigre even though it was more similar to Theorema; it was okay, Tigre’s milkiness and a slight bitterness didn’t sit well. Olfactive Studio Lumiere Blanche faded on me in about 5-10 minutes, sadly. December 25, 2016 at 5:47pm Reply

    • Tomate Farcie: I love Theorema, I snagged a bottle on eBay. A cheap one (of course not as good, but same wheelhouse) is Roberto Cavalli Oro. Lutens Arabie, Parfum d’Empire Aziyade, more boozy is Frapin 1270. I love Parfumerie Generale Felanilla. good luck December 25, 2016 at 7:28pm Reply

      • Kari: Thank you! I adore Arabie too (yummm.) Have not tried any of the others you listed. I appreciate it!

        Since I have a nearly FB of Theorema and it’s such a unique fragrance, I’m not aiming for a clone, so your list seems right up my alley. December 25, 2016 at 8:12pm Reply

  • Tania: Hi,

    I would like a recommendation for an inexpensive perfume which feels cozy and comforting.

    Some perfumes I love (not just like, love) are Opium (I have one from the 1990s) and Niki de Saint Phalle, and, in a completely different style, Noa and L’Artisan Parfumeur Navegar.

    Thanks! December 26, 2016 at 8:13pm Reply

    • AnnieA: Adam Levine for Women smells a lot more expensive than it is (i.e. $12 at TJ Maxx cheap), a good winter scent. December 28, 2016 at 11:59am Reply

    • Morelle: Chopard Casmir. Victoria gave it a very favourable review a few years ago, which made me acquire a half full bottle at a well known auction site, for very little money. I only wear it when it is extremely cold (too cloying for my taste otherwise), but it is certainly cozy and comforting. December 28, 2016 at 6:45pm Reply

    • Karen A: Roberto Cavalli’s Oro. Really inexpensive on discounter sites. Gaia at The Non Blonde has written on it, it’s where I learned about it and took an $11.00 leap of faith on a blind buy. Great on its own and layers beautifully with darker ambers. December 29, 2016 at 6:13am Reply

    • Cybele: not necessarily inexpensive but
      Kenzo Flower
      CDG White December 29, 2016 at 6:40pm Reply

  • Natalie: Am newly discover in scents after decades of being away (chemical sensitivities made me skittish).
    Enthusiastic reviews of Serge Lutens Fille en Aiguilles led me to try and I am Smitten.

    Can anyone recommend scents that are of that ouvre?

    Thanks…and happy New Year! December 29, 2016 at 7:11pm Reply

    • Aurora: Hello Natalie: What about Annick Goutal Nuit Etoilee EDP? It is quite similar.

      Happy New Year too. January 4, 2017 at 7:06am Reply

      • Natalie: Thank you! I will try… January 4, 2017 at 7:43am Reply

  • Tasha: I am looking for a new perfume… I’ve previously worn Shalimar and Chanel No. 5 has been my signature scent for some time. I adore Coco as well. I have good luck with Chanel fragrances but I want to branch out and find something else to add to and round out my wardrobe… Any suggestions? January 3, 2017 at 2:40am Reply

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Latest Comments

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