This week, we have our “Recommend Me a Perfume” thread. You can use this space to ask any questions about perfume, including fragrance recommendations. If you’ve asked for a recommendation before, we would love to hear how your search went and what you’ve discovered.
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, Kyiv, Ukraine
496 Comments
Connie: Wow, am I first?!
I would love to know everyone’s favorite “big, bad, and beautiful perfumes”, or whatever fits that epithet for you. Inspired by a recent test of Tropic of Capricorn from Olympic Orchids. A dense, very sexy, very dangerous sort of scent. Love it. What are yours? February 2, 2015 at 7:57am
Sylviane: Bulgari Black !!!!!! February 2, 2015 at 8:15am
Cornelia Blimber: Black Afgano, Nasomatto.
Beyond Love, F Malle
Shocking, Schiaparelli
Poison, Dior February 2, 2015 at 8:28am
Connie: I know you mean beyond Love By Kilian (just for anyone who doesn’t know) and I love Schiaparelli Shocking! Honeyed powdery civet is the best. Also in Bal a Versailles and Amouage Gold Man. February 9, 2015 at 8:43am
Connie: I find Bulgari Black very fluffy and friendly! I know the rubber strikes a lot of people as odd, but for me the powdery vanilla and black tea really take it to a comforting place. Such a great scent! February 9, 2015 at 8:41am
Hannah: I agree, although I don’t really register anything in Black as tea. It smells like vanilla-scented erasers to me. It’s very soft and sheer to me. Usually when I read people’s opinions on Bulgari Black, I’m just confused. February 9, 2015 at 6:40pm
Therése: Oudh Roses Petals from Montale and of course: Portrait of a Lady from Frederic Malle. February 2, 2015 at 8:31am
Becky: MFK Absolu Poir le Soir, Bal a Versailles, OJ Tolu. Penhaligon’s Amaranthine, in a completely different way. February 2, 2015 at 8:39am
Connie: The first three are favorites of mine, so I’ll have to try Amaranthine! February 9, 2015 at 8:44am
Sandra: Dangerous liaison & cruel intentions by Killian,la fille de Berlin SL, February 2, 2015 at 9:02am
Connie: I love Dangerous Liaisons! February 9, 2015 at 8:44am
Nemo: SSS Joie Ensoleille 🙂 I myself don’t get a lot of “bad” from it, but I do remember one perfumista referring to it as a “panty-flasher” of a perfume. February 2, 2015 at 9:04am
Bea: Bandit from Piguet. I feel like I am wearing an armour, two guns and a hell of a lot of “don’t mess with me”-attitude when I wear it. February 2, 2015 at 9:07am
Judith: Yup. My view is that it was no coincidence that this was launched in occupied Paris. February 3, 2015 at 8:27am
angeldiva: LOL February 3, 2015 at 5:26pm
Victoria E: I wear Visa and Fracas from Piguet and Mademoiselle. I love also Roses Et Raines from L’Occitane…….and Flower Bomb now and Carven Parfum. February 5, 2015 at 12:22pm
Bastet: Opium, Fracas, Jubilation 25, Insolence February 2, 2015 at 9:41am
Connie: Jubilation 25 is like nothing else. February 9, 2015 at 8:45am
solanace: Femme de Rochas. February 2, 2015 at 9:48am
Nikki: Hmm, that sounds interesting,Tropic of Capricorn!
Here we go for BB and Beautiful perfumes!
Fate by Amouage
Une Fleur de Cassie
Absolue du Soir by Kurkdijan
Shalimar Extrait
Jasmin Imperatrice Eugenie by Creed February 2, 2015 at 9:59am
Connie: Is that Fate Man or Woman? I haven’t tried the Woman yet, but loved Man. I love all the others but haven’t tried the Creed… February 9, 2015 at 8:45am
Danaki: Good question. This is the perfume equivalent of war paint for me.
Guerlain Samsara
FM Portrait of a Lady
SL Santal Majescule
Agent Provocateur edp
ELDO Rien
From your description, I really fancy Tropic of Capricorn (wonder whether available in UK to try). February 2, 2015 at 11:39am
Patricia: In addition to others mentioned, Memoir Woman, which I am trying for the first time today. Quite a leathery, incense powerhouse even when applied with a tiny dab sample! February 2, 2015 at 12:15pm
Sandra: I love Memoir-enjoy it.
The dry down I find to be very pretty.
Let me know how it wears on you throughout the day
I also love Journey-as one of my friends put it: sass, class and devilish sexiness! February 2, 2015 at 12:42pm
Hannah: Every time I try Memoir Woman, it smells a bit different. Sometimes I think if I weren’t allowed to wear any other perfume again, I’d be ok with that. But sometimes it is just too sweet. February 2, 2015 at 7:45pm
Austenfan: Rien, Aromatics Elixir and, although in a different way, Chanel No.19. February 2, 2015 at 12:26pm
Aurora: Cabochard, Jungle L’Elephant,
Tubereuse Criminelle. February 2, 2015 at 12:44pm
Edward: I have to agree with Jungle L’Elephant. A small spray is just enough to catch attention and compliment. February 4, 2015 at 11:01am
angeldiva: Hi Connie,
I have never heard of Tropic Of Capricorn, care to elaborate on this scent? It sounds intriguing to moi.
P. February 2, 2015 at 11:45pm
Connie: Yes, I’m super enthusiastic about it right now! It’s fruity, but a ripe rather than watery clean fruity. Juicy. Plus this huge civet-hyrax bomb, particularly in the opening, which doesn’t smell dirty so much as thick and furry, like burying your face in a warm and musty tomcat. The flowers are more prominent in the heart, I definitely smell the osmanthus, tuberose, jasmine, and magnolia. The florals are a nice and fresh counterpoint and keep the scent from getting to dark and thick. February 9, 2015 at 8:50am
angeldiva: Fascinating! February 13, 2015 at 10:27pm
Liisa: Boudoir by Vivienne Westwood February 3, 2015 at 2:19am
Connie: Must try this one, I’ve heard so much about it… February 9, 2015 at 8:50am
Tijana: Alien Essence Absolue! February 3, 2015 at 7:11am
Connie: I love this one! February 9, 2015 at 8:50am
Gentiana: Gooood subject! Actually, my “big, bad and ( – relatively, as any aesthetic… – ) beautiful are:
– Hypnotic Poison – Dior
– Narcotic Venus = Nasomatto
– Silences – Jacomo (based on feed-backs I’ve got from here and there, from people who sniffed my perfume – otherwise Silence with her a green, woody, floral Elf-dress) won’t make you notice from the beginning that she is a b..t..hy Siren in disguise…
– Femme – Rochas
– Bandit – Piguet
– Fracas – Piguet
– Narcisse Noir – Caron February 3, 2015 at 7:53am
Anne-Catherine: Nuits indiennes (Scherrer): I bought iT about 15 years ago and still have 75 % of THE bottle, I should wear iT more often
Alien (mugler) essence absolue and flanker with leather: love-hate relationship: I find alien more complex to wear than Angel February 3, 2015 at 8:29am
Connie: I love the essence absolue, I should track down a bottle once I can stop sponging off Sephora for free samples. February 9, 2015 at 8:52am
Anne-Catherine: You won’t regret it! It has also incredible sillage. My colleague wears it now and then and I can smell where she has been in the building a day later! February 10, 2015 at 2:35pm
Bea: Is this perfume inspired by Henry Miller’s book “Tropic of Capricorn”? February 3, 2015 at 11:53am
Sabrina: Allure Sensuelle February 3, 2015 at 2:05pm
Nina Z: Agree with Tolu by Ormonde Jayne and Jubilation 25 above. Will add Sacrebleu, Musc Ravageur, and Coromandel. February 3, 2015 at 4:44pm
Kate: Couldn’t agree more about Sacrebleu. I know that it is generally understood as an hommage to l’Heure Bleue, and I get that, but to me it’s also a throwback to the big hitters of the eighties like Dior Poison. Shoulder-padded mohair sweaters and big hair. Like all good perfumes it is not just that, however, and this multi-facetedness really interests me. And that bubblegum opening!
I also second Fracas – an absolute femme fatale of a fragrance, almost indecently fleshy: a venus fly trap of a scent! February 4, 2015 at 6:50am
Connie: Love Musc Ravageur and Coromandel. Sacrebleu was odd on me, unfortunately. February 9, 2015 at 8:52am
NikNik: Frederick Malle’s L’Eau d’Hiver is Elena’s modern interpretation of Après l’Ondée. It retains the fragility that you are looking for. It’s really beautiful. It last about 6-8 hours on my skin. February 5, 2015 at 11:08am
Connie: L’Eau d’Hiver is beautiful but super quiet on me. Doesn’t really last for me either. And I certainly don’t think I would call it ‘bad’ 😛
But beautiful, certainly. February 9, 2015 at 8:54am
NikNik: My big, bad, beautiful (aka spray with caution) are:
Absolue pour la soir, MFK
Tolu, Ormonde Jayne
M, Puredistance
Vintage Shalimar extrait February 5, 2015 at 11:14am
Connie: Agree with three out of four! I’ll have to try M 😛 February 9, 2015 at 8:54am
Heart: Looking for a soft, romantic floral scent for Valentine’s Day. Any Suggestions? February 2, 2015 at 8:09am
Aurora: You might try: Paris YSL a bunch of roses; Chanel No 5 Eau Premiere lemony and white flowers less demanding than classic No 5; Balenciaga Paris a very soft violet; Armani Code a good orange blossom; Chant d’Aromes Guerlain v. good abstract flowers; Honour Amouage, white flowers (more expensive than the others). February 2, 2015 at 12:38pm
Anne-Catherine: Baiser vole (with an accent) by Cartier
Flor y Canto Arquiste:
Both beautiful white florals February 2, 2015 at 12:42pm
Ruth: I like both the edp and edt of Cartier Baiser Vole. I just purchased Acqua di Parma Gelsomino Nobile, a really lovely white flower with complexity. I also liked the AdP Magnolia Nobile. February 2, 2015 at 8:16pm
Rose Pepper: Etat Libre d’Orange Putain de Palaces is great – not as scary as the name sounds and I think it’s a very romantic yet cozy scent.
Cuir de Lancôme and Bottega Veneta if you don’t mind some soft leather with the florals.
Frederic Malle Iris Poudre is so, so beautiful and soft, but may be a bit melancholy if it’s very cold out.
Tocca is really good for pretty and easy florals – I like Violette (violet and a bit of rose) and Florence (green gardenia). Collette would probably be good too. February 2, 2015 at 2:13pm
Rose Pepper: Oh, and if you can get a hold of it, Lancôme Mille et Une Roses is just lovely! February 2, 2015 at 3:13pm
solanace: Collette is so good! February 3, 2015 at 2:30am
solanace: Annick Goutal Ce Soir ou Jamais and Rose Splendide for lovely, realistic, expensive-smelling roses. February 2, 2015 at 2:14pm
Heart: Thank you for your suggestions. These perfumes sound lovely, and I can’t wait to try them! February 2, 2015 at 9:48pm
angeldiva: Hi Heart!
If you are in the US- at Whole Foods you can purchase the PACIFICA line. The little solids in the tins are so sweet and smell wonderful.
P. February 2, 2015 at 11:49pm
Michaela: Great suggestions.
I may add Burberry Brit Rhythm, my latest love. Victoria has a beautiful review. February 3, 2015 at 3:57am
angeldiva: I concur! February 3, 2015 at 5:28pm
Etomidac: L’Artisan’s Une Chasse de Papillions, Jo Malone Red Roses or Peony Blush Suede are romantic Valentine florals 🙂 February 3, 2015 at 7:08am
Gentiana: Flor Y Canto and Anima Dulcis form Arquiste would be a good Choice.
And, yes, someone mentioned Chanel 5 Eau Premiere. If you like roses, Stella (Stella McCartney) would be a very good choice. I had very good times with Escada Sentiment (modern floral-fruity crowd pleaser, but, IMHO very well blended, so & cozy)
Baiser Vole
Lipstick Rose (with a veeery soft hand !!!)
Penhaligons Violetta February 3, 2015 at 8:00am
Kate: Flower by Kenzo. Super girly and romantic.
I think L’Heure Bleue is the most romantic fragrance of all though. There is a scene in the Bond film ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’ when George Lazenby lifts Diana Rigg’s wrist and asks ‘l’Heure Bleue’? Although come to think of it, Bond’s only marriage to the lovely Diana had rather a tragic outcome… February 4, 2015 at 6:56am
angeldiva: Amazing film reference! I never noticed this! Just ordered Kenzo Flower,
Thanks February 7, 2015 at 4:20pm
spe: Perhaps one of the van cleef collection extraordinaire perfumes? Gardenia or Orchidee? They are romantic and soft which to me means low on the aldehydes and fruit. February 4, 2015 at 9:26am
Karen: Ohhhhh, their gardenia is beautiful! My (used up) sample has a note on it, Buy FB! February 4, 2015 at 3:26pm
Patricia: I have a full bottle of the Gardenia and consider it the most realistic gardenia fragrance I’ve tried. Love it! I haven’t sampled Orchidee, but hear that it’s very good. February 4, 2015 at 4:51pm
spe: I’m thinking of purchasing the gardenia, as well! It’s a well done line! February 6, 2015 at 12:29pm
Neisha: I always want to put in a plug for Sonoma Scent Studio. In this case: Nostalgie (and old school Rose/Violet); Velvet Rose (if you like a single rose note, I prefer a darker, spicier rose, like Rose Volupte from this line); Voile de Violette (a pretty, powdery violet; I like my florals woodier and spicier, so I prefer Wood Violet and To Dream of the Laurie’s violet fragrances); Champagne de Bois (aldehydes, jasmine, and the yummiest sandalwood, like Bois de Iles). February 4, 2015 at 8:03pm
Sandra: The last recommend me a perfume I was asking for “mommy” perfumes. I tried the following samples of some of the recommendations Ann Gerard:Perle de Mousse
Mona di Orio Musc – Les Nombres d’Or
Parfum d’Empire Osmanthus Interdite
Parfums DelRae -Wit. Unfortunately none of them suited me that well but I appreciated everyone’s input February 2, 2015 at 8:24am
Nikki: Did you try Arpege by Lanvin yet? A perfect perfume for Mommy and daughter with a flacon to match? February 2, 2015 at 10:01am
Sandra: No! I will give that a try ! Thank you February 2, 2015 at 10:04am
Courant: The reformulated Arpege is very indolic, quite pungent February 2, 2015 at 1:40pm
Bastet: My young nieces love the new version of Ivoire (Balmain). Cacharel Noa is also very soft and pretty. February 2, 2015 at 10:33am
Courant: Very nice suggestions February 2, 2015 at 1:41pm
Elena: I like both very much! Good suggestions. February 2, 2015 at 3:00pm
Sylvia: Sandra, do you mean perfumes to wear at home with your dear ones? Have you tried Estee Private collection Tuberose Gardenia or Stella? Both are relatively inexpensive and easy to find- so you can try them. As a fellow ( very experienced perfumista) pointed out to me- and I whole heartedly agree!- the Estee is so friendly! Very approachable and good with anything! I think Stella is ‘easy to wear’, too. Good luck! February 2, 2015 at 11:09am
Rose: Parfum MDCI Promesse De L’Aube February 2, 2015 at 11:19am
trudy: Jo Malone Peony Suede Blush is pretty. I find the longevity with Jo Malone isn’t great but I’ve been told if you layer with the oil it last much longer. February 2, 2015 at 2:15pm
Sandra: Thanks for the suggestions! I will give these a try February 2, 2015 at 3:23pm
Etomidac: Perhaps try classics like Estee Lauders Pure White Linen or Pleasures (Intense even)? 🙂 February 3, 2015 at 7:07am
Nina Z: Bois des Iles by Chanel. It dries down to a soft sandalwood scent, which is more like a skin scent than a floral. That would be my first rec for you. But you could also try a pretty and light musk fragrance, such as Serge Lutens Clair de Musc. February 3, 2015 at 6:00pm
Karen: After reading all the comments to the Ma Griffe giveaway where the question was about fragrance and memory, my suggestion is to simply wear any perfume that you love. Your child/children will love how you smell and a large part of their association with you and fragrance will probably involve the process or ritual of putting it on.
Have you tried L’heure Bleue EDP? Only because I have been loving a decant that I just received, it has so many stages and has such a “kind” sweetness (weird description, but can’t think of another way to describe it) after an hour or so, plus it lasts. If you pick up your child at the end of the day the scent will still be there on your neck in a very soft and subtle way. Can’t gloss over that the first 15 minutes or so are strong, but that can be tempered by a lighter spray and/or mixing it with some unscented body lotion.
On me, there is a huge difference between the EdC and the EDP, with the EdC being too sweet, but give both a try. February 6, 2015 at 5:27am
angeldiva: Karen!
I did it! I layered my new Yardley Iris over my EDP sample of L’eure Bleue, and I’m in scent Heaven. This must be what the garden of eden smelled like.
It wears sooo much better on my that the L’eure Bleue alone. So, what is the simulated scent that I have achieved?
Is it Guerlain L’opres londie (?)
P/ February 7, 2015 at 3:34pm
Cornelia Blimber: Beautiful picture, that silvery light, tender colours, impressing architecture.
How would you perfume this landscape?
I say: iris Siver Mist. February 2, 2015 at 8:24am
Glannys: I live near Kyiv, and I tend to associate it with lilac. So I say En Passant. February 2, 2015 at 8:41am
Michaela: Interesting question! Eau Parfumee au The Vert, for me. February 2, 2015 at 9:38am
solanace: I love the picture, too! Lipstick Rose keeps coming to my mind, for some reason. Maybe because it’s such a joyful view, but I’m also sure there are roses hiding in all that green. February 2, 2015 at 9:56am
solanace: Keep coming back because I love these threads, and just realized why Lipstick Rose. Yes, the picture is happy, but there is also a sense of nostalgia. I worry about these two guys, who look so carefree. Hope they are doing fine. February 5, 2015 at 3:01am
Rowanhill: Kelly Caleche would be my pick for the cool spring day. February 2, 2015 at 10:00am
Anne: Yes, interesting. Such a lovely photo. I would pick Angelique sous la pluie. X February 2, 2015 at 10:37am
Malmaison: I would also give a vote to En Passant, and also I think Olfactive Lumière. Great question! February 2, 2015 at 2:53pm
Karen: Just got a decant of Le Parfum de Therese (Malle) and on me it has a clear, shimmery feel, more spring like than my others. Maybe with some Pacifica Lilac behind my knees for a little ethereal earthiness? February 4, 2015 at 5:55am
Gentiana: I would associate it with Truth, Calvin Klein. Clean, bright, serene February 6, 2015 at 3:05am
Vanie: Hi!
I’d like to know your bath oil recommendations. I’m getting to the end of a miniature set from Aromatherapy Associates which I really liked, but I’d prefer to find something less expensive… Maybe off Etsy?
Thanks! February 2, 2015 at 8:30am
Bea: I don’t know where you live but I like the German brand Kneipp for bath oils and salts. They are rather cheap here in Europe, about $10 per bottle.
The salt with juniper berries and the valerian & hops bath essence are staples in my bathroom in the winter. February 2, 2015 at 9:11am
Hannah: Bath products are one of my favorite things about Germany.
If Vanie lives in the US, she can find them online. Smallflower sells them. February 2, 2015 at 12:48pm
Bea: Absolutely, Weleda is another favourite brand for bath and body products. I love the soaps, body oils and bath essences. A bit more expensive than Kneipp, but worth every penny. I use the rose scented soap and body oil every day during the winter. February 4, 2015 at 8:51am
Vanie: I’m in Canada! February 2, 2015 at 7:58pm
angeldiva: Hi Vanie,
I’m revisiting the idea of Youth Dew. V loves it- and the bath oil is legendary. I sniffed it at Macys, and it does smell soooo much better than it did when I was 18.
Recently made a bath gel discovery: Kama Sutra! It smells like mint and is tingly.
P. February 2, 2015 at 11:54pm
Vanie: Thanks for the recommendations! February 3, 2015 at 6:25pm
Mira: Hi!
I’m looking for a affordable cologne recommendation. Perfumes that I like include florals (Serge Lutens flour d’oranger, Annick Goutal C’est soir oui Jamis), orientals (Safran Troubulant, Kenzo Jungle L’elephant). I’ve tried Atelier Cologne Cedar envint, and am looking for something a little softer and affordable. Thinking of trying 4711, and roger and gallet the vert. Any other recommendations? February 2, 2015 at 8:31am
Cornelia Blimber: Speaking of 4711: in one of the thrillers by Philip Kerr, there is a very sexy, beautiful, famous film actress wearing….4711! February 2, 2015 at 12:12pm
Aurora: Eau de Gaga is a very good affordable green tea cologne very like a budget Bulgari The Vert; Victoria likes it too. February 2, 2015 at 1:06pm
Michaela: Second both of them! These last all day long. 4711 cools for a couple of hours then goes away, so, if you like it very much, you have to carry a bottle. I like it very much, but I wear it only in the morning. Elizabeth Arden Green Tea is worth trying, not a tea, but cool fizzy summer beverage.
I love them all, but nothing compares to Eau Parfumee au the Vert for me when I want to feel elegant. February 3, 2015 at 3:12am
Nikki: I love the Extreme version of Eau Parfumee au The Vert very much, it is really amazing and I always get compliments from men and women when I wear it. I do use it like 4711 though, probably perfuming a whole room, but it just smells so good. I also love the green frosted bottle it comes in… February 3, 2015 at 4:46pm
Michaela: Thank you! I’ll have to try the Extreme. February 4, 2015 at 4:18am
Elisa: Eau Sauvage? February 2, 2015 at 1:18pm
Courant: Yardley Iris is inexpensive and lovely IMHO February 2, 2015 at 1:43pm
angeldiva: Hi Courant,
I just ordered this online. Never smelled it before- can’t wait!
P. February 2, 2015 at 11:56pm
Rebecca: I have the Yardley Iris. It is great, I use it a lot, especially in the summer…. I am on my third bottle. It is definitely a bargain. February 3, 2015 at 3:12am
angeldiva: Hi Rebecca,
The Iris is supposed to be good for layering, too!
P. February 3, 2015 at 5:31pm
Rebecca: This is true! I sometimes layer it with Infusion d’Iris. I use the Yardly like a body spray…. February 7, 2015 at 5:51am
angeldiva: Hi Courant and Rebecca!
I received my Yarley Iris today. It’s exquisite. And, I can’t believe how inexpensive it was. I just layered it over L’huere Bleue- amazing!
I know that in the industry of perfume that Iris is one of the most expensive ingredients you can add. So great that Yardey still manufactures this. I had not smelled Iris in an isolated way, before.
It smells wonderful, and violet/neon orange, and nostalgic to me. Like a really wonderful older lady relative.
How true it is that perfume doesn’t have to be expensive to be really, really effective.
Thank for all the recommends, EVERYONE!!!
P. February 7, 2015 at 3:41pm
Courant: You can’t be without it once you know it, so versatile and go anywhere. So pleased you like it! February 8, 2015 at 1:49pm
angeldiva: Thanks Courant,
I really do love it. The bottle looks so expensive to- love the hexagon shape.
P. February 9, 2015 at 2:57am
limegreen: 1. Coty Muguet des Bois (huge bottle between $10-15), very nice classic
2. Parfums de Nicolai colognes (Cologne Sologne and Cologne Cedrat) huge 100 ml bottles (lasts!) for btw $40-50) — nice soft orange blossom and citrus
3. Yves Rocher Neroli EDP — pretty orange blossom, not too sweet (often on sale)
(All YR perfumes and colognes very affordable and very nice)
4. Pacifica fragrances
4711 is nice but I find it is fleeting on my skin February 2, 2015 at 5:08pm
DaveStPaul: +1 on the Parfums de Nicolai’s. I think COLOGNE SOLOGNE is really lovely. Also from that house is L’EAU MIXTE and L’EAU CHIC, both also so nice.
Nicolai also makes many of their fragrances is 30ml bottles, which is a great option when money is an issue. Good luck. =:o) February 3, 2015 at 3:25pm
Gentiana: Try Fleurs d’Agrumes by Yves Rocher
Duende by Jesus del Poso
Molinard Eau Fraiche
Eau de Rochas (can find it with good prices at internet discounters)
Eau de Cologne Imperiale by Guerlain – idem February 3, 2015 at 8:05am
Nina Z: Neroli by Annick Goutal. February 3, 2015 at 4:46pm
Laurels: Bvlgari Au The Rouge is a warmer, more oriental-leaning cologne, often very affordable at the discounters. February 4, 2015 at 6:25am
Becky: Hey, everyone! I generally lurk, but I’ve got a serious craving and I’m hoping you all can point me in the right direction.
I’ve recently fallen in love with Viktoria Minya Eau de Hongrie, and now I’m looking for some other honey scents. Sweet, floral honey, animalic honey… Either way! What are your favorites? February 2, 2015 at 8:46am
Glannys: I haven’t tried Eau de Hongrie, but my favourite honey fragrance is Botrytis – mostly honey and white flowers (and something boozy). Phaedon Tabac Rouge, despite its name, does not have tobacco in it – it smells like a spicy honey to me. Hermessence Ambre Narguile is quite a complex scent, but honey and amber are prominent. For animalic honey (with pepper!), trey ELDO Noel au Balcon. February 2, 2015 at 8:58am
Bastet: Have you tried Serge Lutens Chergui or 5 O’clock Gingembre? I believe they both have a honey note. I also like Ungaro Diva (honeyed rose). February 2, 2015 at 10:35am
Danaki: The honey note in Chergui (a recent purchase) is dusty and sweet, but not always noticeable. A perfect starter honey. February 2, 2015 at 11:44am
Tam: I find Smell Bent’s, Prairie Nymph to have a very nice honey note along with orange blossom and maybe grass or hay. It’s reasonably priced as well. February 2, 2015 at 11:12pm
Becky: I have tried both SLs. I wanted to love Chergui, but it felt too masculine for me (and I wear a lot of unisex/masculine stuff – it must be a personal issue.). I need to revisit my 5 o’clock sample. Ungaro Diva has been added to the list; thank you! February 3, 2015 at 6:17pm
Elisa: I happen to be wearing Botrytis today! It’s very similar to Viktoria Minya Hedonist.
I smell lots of honey in Lush Lust. Ditto for Love, Chloe though the latter is too much for me.
For a cheap thrill the Honeymania body butter from the Body Shop is very nice, kind of a Sauternes effect. February 2, 2015 at 1:20pm
Snowyowl: *Yes, Botrytis is very good to try
*My first honey thought was Guerlain Mon Precieux Nectar, you can try a sample
*Also Lush Honey I Washed the Kids soap will make you and your bathroom smell like honey all the time. Also they have a new shampoo that is fair traded honey, give it a try. February 2, 2015 at 6:19pm
Becky: I’ve never heard of Mon Precieux Nectar! I’d love to try. 🙂 February 3, 2015 at 7:53am
Becky: Honeymania sounds great! I’ve recently been turned on to Sauternes – I received a bottle for Christmas. Perhaps this is fueling my craving. February 3, 2015 at 6:14pm
Becky: These sound perfect. Thank you. 🙂 February 3, 2015 at 7:19pm
angeldiva: Hi,
With regards to your jones for honey. You may enjoy “Love And Toast,” – HONEY roll on perfume.
Also, Kama Sutra makes a honey dusting powder that may seal your scents.
Good Luck, Honey!!!!
P. February 7, 2015 at 3:50pm
Sandra: beige & soir de lune have some honey in them February 2, 2015 at 9:03am
Abigail: Love Soir de Lune, rose and honey, delicious February 3, 2015 at 3:32am
Becky: TO THE LIST, February 3, 2015 at 6:18pm
Carlisle: L’Artisan Parfumeur’s Tea for Two has a delicious honey note, along with black tea and gingerbread February 2, 2015 at 9:30am
Becky: I was super excited to see they were re-releasing this! Now I am hopeful I will get to try it. 🙂 February 3, 2015 at 6:11pm
Sylvia: I vote for Beige too! February 2, 2015 at 10:12am
Rose: Me too! Beige parfum! February 2, 2015 at 11:15am
Cornelia Blimber: Second the 2 Lutens, and add Santal Majuscule. There is also honey in Back to Black, but in my opinion Lutens does honey better (and more affordable). February 2, 2015 at 12:14pm
Cornelia Blimber: I also like the honey in Eli Saab perfume. February 2, 2015 at 12:16pm
Courant: Mmm. Elie is good. Alahine has good honey also February 2, 2015 at 1:46pm
Becky: Beige was a like-not-love for me, but maybe I should try the parfum one of these days. February 3, 2015 at 7:23am
Nick: L’Occitaine’s Immortelle de Corse (not their standard Immortelle) – If you can find it… February 2, 2015 at 12:15pm
Becky: I can’t even find a L’Occitaine store, haha. February 3, 2015 at 6:39pm
Danielle: Xerjoff’s Mamluk February 2, 2015 at 4:23pm
Becky: Mameluke has already been on my test list for ages. Thank you for reminding me! February 3, 2015 at 7:54am
ChanteusedesIles: I second the SL Chergui and also the Hermes Ambre Narguile! Also, have you tried Ormonde Jayne’s Ta’if? It’s a really pretty luminous peppery rose with a honeyed sweetness 🙂 February 3, 2015 at 2:06am
Becky: I have tried Ta’if, and I do like it. I don’t always get on with rose, but that one is so pretty. February 3, 2015 at 7:21am
Anne-Catherine: I love back to black ( by Kilian) : a not too sweet honey combined wit tobacco, lots of spices and dried fruit: very complex, longlasting, loud but refined February 3, 2015 at 8:15am
Joe: Guerlain Mon Precieux Nectar.
Range Blossom, Jasmine, Almonds and honey.
One of the best of the newer Guerlains for me with a proper sense of the Guerlinade. February 3, 2015 at 12:06pm
Becky: Added to the test list! <3 February 3, 2015 at 6:09pm
Irina: Lutens’ Chergui turns to spicy honey. It lasts almost 24 hours on me and it’s a wonderful winter smell that fights even through layers and sweaters. February 3, 2015 at 12:56pm
Nina Z: Honey and the Moon by Tokyo Milk is a lovely honey scent. It’s very inexpensive, too. February 3, 2015 at 4:48pm
Kate: Actually Guerlain l’Instant is a lovely, and IMHO rather underrated, honey fragrance. Worth trying. February 4, 2015 at 6:59am
Morelle: I’m surprised no one has mentioned Lutens’ Miel de Bois so far. It’s certainly very controversial since many people discover a strong urine note in it. But to others it’s the purest honey scent they have experienced, so you should give it a try. Alas, it’s been withdrawn from the export line a few years ago, so it could be difficult to obtain a sample.
First time I tried it I was thrilled by its intense honey note… for the first three hours. Then it got a bit much because it did not relent at all. I went to bed in a cloud of honey and dreamed of bees all night. Also, a drop of it had landed on the sleeve of my leather coat and remained firmly in place for a full six weeks! I purchased a small sample from which I applied lightly, very lightly, and enjoyed it very much. But after about three weeks a hint of urine started to creep in, and got ever stronger over time. After three months the content of the vial had turned into pure Extrait du Pipi, and I have never worn it since. I have no idea whether my body chemistry had changed, or my perception of the scent, or if it really underwent some chemical transformation (it was stored cool and dark, but those small samples can sometimes turn rather quickly).
So, be warned that you may not enjoy it, but it is certainly a very interesting scent. February 5, 2015 at 6:52pm
Tati: I just bought a FB of Soir de Lune by Sisley. It is rose, honey, and moss. Lovely! February 6, 2015 at 6:11pm
Connie: HONEY! I love honey! Here we go: Botrytis (nectareous and fruity, verging on oriental), Rose de Nuit (more beeswax), Ambre Narguile (baked with apples, actually oriental), Praitie Nymph (soooo good, juicy orange and juicier honey), Golden Cattleya (thick and viscuous not-too-sweet honey with orange blossom and narcissus), Bois d’Argent (with incense and iris), Jardins d’Armide (with powdery florals and animalic undertones), Amouage Gold Man and Bal a Versailles and Schiaparelli Shocking and Cologne/Absolue pour le Soir (all honey-civet-powder bombs, fantastic), a bunch of the Loukhoum-type scents are honeyed, there are all of the honeyed tobaccos, which aren’t my favorites, Ouris by SoOud (sort of like Jardins d’Armide, but more powdery-fruity)… Yep! February 9, 2015 at 9:13am
Nicole: I would love a recommendation. I’ve worn Guerlain L’instant de Guerlain for the past 12 years but suddenly, it doesn’t smell the same on me. I also love Frederic Malle’s Carnal Flower but sadly, it’s beyond my budget. I’ve tried Hanae Mori’s Butterfly and it’s lovely but not as special as L’instant de Guerlain and the scent doesn’t last long on me.
As you may have deduced, I like velvety white florals. Any suggestions?
Thanks in advance! February 2, 2015 at 9:10am
Courant: Songes by Annick Goutal is a heady white floral. London by Burberry is another(cheaper) alternative. Have you tried Hypnotic Poison? February 2, 2015 at 5:36pm
Gentiana: Songes is absolutely gorgeous. IMHO Hypnotic Poison is not too much about white florals, it is a big bold oriental, an avalanche of vanilla, spices, woods and sweet stuff. February 3, 2015 at 8:07am
angeldiva: Hi Nicole,
I learned so much by reading, “How To Layer Scents.”
Now, I’m thrilled that I can enjoy expensive perfumes that weren’t working on my skin. The article talks about picking a note from the perfume- then starting your first layer with a pure expression of that note.
It really works, maybe your Guerlain will love you once again,
P. February 3, 2015 at 12:45am
Diane: I think Estée Lauder private collection tuberose gardenia is a gorgeous white flower scent and not as $$ as Frederic Malle. Rich beautiful flowers, good sillage and long lasting. February 6, 2015 at 10:09am
Roberta Titchener: I have fallen in love with Beige again. It is my second bottle. I also love 22. I have many perfumes and am one of those who “perfumes” herself at night. With dreary weather here last night, I tried some Muget. I really love it when Christian Dior had a Muget scent, but have not been able to find it on my last couple of trips to France. February 2, 2015 at 9:26am
AnnieA: Were you thinking of Dioressimo? Such a pretty scent back in the day, but the new version is quite shrill. February 2, 2015 at 2:37pm
Raquel: Beautiful picture. Would someone please recommend a genuine middle eastern attar. Please no Montale Black Oudh (people from Iran and India say it smells like the rose scent used for dead people….is this true?) Has anyone tried Al Haramain Al Kaaba Attar? Thank you!! February 2, 2015 at 9:39am
Michaela: I tried this attar and I like it very much. Don’t expect much oudh. It’s about a rich, sweet, warm, ravishing, deep rose in sandalwood and amber. Traditional Middle-Eastern scent. I find it works better in warm weather. In winter it gets ‘soapy’ on my skin. It’s an oil. Great longevity, but it stays close to the skin. Well worth the money, it’s a little goes a long way. I have a very similar one, which I like a bit more: Al Haraiman Al Buraq, also an oil, which is beautiful in winter.
The are inexpensive and the small bottle is never ending, you use only 3-5 drops all day long.
You should sample before buying. February 2, 2015 at 9:57am
Raquel: Michaela thank you very much for your answer! It’s been very helpful!! February 2, 2015 at 12:51pm
Michaela: You’re welcome!
My English is not good. I have both and I love them. These would probably last for years, they are very concentrated. Al Buraq has some saffron and a musky finish. It’s all about crimson roses, much similar to Attar Al Kaaba. February 3, 2015 at 3:25am
Raquel: Another question, if I could spend an amount money in a good attar, would Amouage Tribute Attar oil be worthy? Mmm, sorry my english is not the best! Thanks again February 2, 2015 at 9:44am
Sandra: Yes! Have you samples it? Have you tried Homage? February 2, 2015 at 10:10am
Raquel: No Sandra, I haven’t tried them! I have no access to test Amouage. i read and read as many reviews as possible and then decide if to buy. Thanks to this blog I’ve bought (blind buy) some fragrances I love like SL Ambre Sultan. Do you prefer Homage? February 2, 2015 at 1:09pm
solanace: Have you tried the sample and decant sites, such as Surrender to Chance and The Posh Peasant? February 2, 2015 at 2:20pm
Raquel: Thank you Solanace! No but I will! I will order from Surrender. February 7, 2015 at 7:44am
solanace: These sites are so much fun. They have lots of things, all sorts of thematic sample sets, special offers… I have happilly bought from both, but I can say that people at Surrender are particularly sweet. They once went (far) out of their way to help me out. I’m not affiliated at all, but living in Perfume Mordor, these guys have opened the world for me. Hope your experience with them is as enjoyable and positive as mine has been. February 7, 2015 at 8:45am
Sandra: I love Amouage-I would give it a try-you can always return. February 4, 2015 at 11:25am
Raquel: You’re right! I’m sooo curious about Amouage attars! February 7, 2015 at 7:47am
Michaela: Your question reminds me of a discussion on this board over straightforward inexpensive cologne 4711 vs. Tom Ford Neroli Portofino, close as a scent, but much more expensive.
Me, I would sample them all before. If they are close, I would save the money and choose a traditional, well done, but not very expensive Arabian attar and then buy some other Amouage or some other perfume I love with the rest of the money. Arabian Oud oils seem also worth sampling, if you can find them in your area. February 2, 2015 at 11:00am
Raquel: Thank you Michaela! I’ll sample first some not very expensive oils as you suggested! February 7, 2015 at 7:56am
angeldiva: I think your English is perfect!
P. February 3, 2015 at 12:00am
Sara: Hi everyone!
I have so much loved Blue by Ralph Lauren, unfortunately this perfume is not in production anymore, please can you help me to find a suitable replacement scent?
Thank you in advance. February 2, 2015 at 9:52am
angeldiva: Hi Sara,
You can purchase Ralph Lauren Blue on overstock.com (o.co). They have different sizes, too! Not too expensive.
Enjoy!
P. February 7, 2015 at 4:27pm
Sara: Hi Angeldiva,
Thank you so much for your advice! I will contact overstock.com (or co).
Regards,
Sara February 11, 2015 at 9:46am
Sylvia: Winter greetings everyone!,
I read, here, about Guerlain’s new Terra Cotta Perfume. It turned out perfect on my skin! I know you all will understand -this is success and small problem-It’s not available here in the US! I have a small amount and im afraid I’m not going to be able to find more. Could anyone help me find a place to buy it? Thanks all! February 2, 2015 at 10:18am
Nikki: There are several for sale on amazon and also on e-bay now, for $119 for 100ml. February 2, 2015 at 10:32am
Sylvia: Thank you Nikki! I’ll hop over there now and look! February 2, 2015 at 11:12am
Snowyowl: I’m in the US too. You could try calling the Las Vegas Guerlain boutique, they are very helpful and send things via free shipping that you can’t find anywhere else.
I got the new Guerlain Terra Cotta perfume last year (spring 2014) from Nordstroms, so you could call to see if they still offered it (it was in the first round, as special edition, now they are making more since it was so popular). February 2, 2015 at 6:22pm
Karen: Try calling Neiman Marcus in Chevy Chase, Md if you can’t find it. A few weeks ago I saw some, but not sure if it was EDP or EdC. February 4, 2015 at 6:19am
Rebecca: I would like a recommendation for a modern perfume, currently in production, that might be considered evocative of one of the great scents of yesteryear (Crepe de Chine, Shocking etc). My budget doesn’t stretch to very high prices (so Chanel is fine, Amouage is not).
Yes, I fully realize that this is a definite challenge! February 2, 2015 at 10:24am
Caroline: If you like chypres, AdP’s Profumo definitely has a vintage feel. It’s very expensive, but I got a tester on eBay for a reasonable price (sample first, of course!) If you’re in the U.S, a few DSH scents spring to mind: Scent of Hope, Deco Diamonds and Jacinthe de Sapphir. February 2, 2015 at 10:39am
Rebecca: Thank you! This is exciting. February 2, 2015 at 10:52am
Cornelia Blimber: Maybe La Panthère, Cartier. February 2, 2015 at 11:20am
Tijana: Second this. February 2, 2015 at 1:32pm
Rebecca: My sister in the UK just purchased this… a good sign. She is super picky. February 2, 2015 at 5:33pm
Elisa: I thought of DSH too — she is doing vintage-esque scents at affordable prices. February 2, 2015 at 1:22pm
Rose Pepper: Ballet Rouges by Olympic Orchids is a rose based chypre. I think it has a vintage vibe. February 2, 2015 at 3:26pm
Lynley: Maai by Bogue seems to have rave reviews for it’s indepth old-school chypre quality. I havent tried it yet but am keen to.
Maybe also something like Absolue pour le Soir by Maison Francis Kurkdjian February 2, 2015 at 11:26am
Snowyowl: *Yes, I have a sample of Bogue Maai and it is exactly what you are looking for.
*Also, check some of Andy Tauer’s out (see luckyscent as I can’t remember the names right now) but within the past couple of years he came out with three that were reminiscent of yesteryear. February 2, 2015 at 8:19pm
Snowyowl: Just checked, they are listed under Tableau de parfums but created by Andy. Good luck!
*Can’t forget the name of Vero Kern also, her work is majestic, takes perfume to new modern levels but strongly anchored in vintage/history. vero profumo. February 2, 2015 at 8:24pm
rainboweyes: Second Tableau des Parfums, especially Miriam. And you should try Oriza L. Legrand scents, it’s an old, traditional perfume house founded in 1720. I love their Jardins d’Armide and Chypre Mousse.
Jovoy Rouge Assassin has a vintage vibe as well. February 3, 2015 at 4:31am
Danaki: An indie perfume house called 4160Tuesdays make scents and smell vintage-y.
I like many of their scents, including Lady Rose Unicorn and Shazam ! which to me evoke the grand perfumes like Mitsouko and Opium.
I think samples are available in the US from indiescents. February 2, 2015 at 11:50am
Claire H: I would recommend trying out Hiram Green’s Shangri La. Classic, a bit old-fashioned but an elegant spicy, floral chypre- not grandmotherly at all! February 2, 2015 at 12:13pm
AnnieA: Rebecca, how about Rien by Etat Libre d’Orange? It seems to have come straight from the 50’s… February 2, 2015 at 2:39pm
solanace: I would recommend Patricia de Nicolai. Le Temps d’Une Fête, Odalisque or Sacrebleu might well please you. État Libre d’Orange is another brand which makes good quality perfumes at decent prices. I love their Putain des Palaces, a cosmetic evoking rose-violet, laced with some good leather and musk. February 2, 2015 at 2:41pm
Courant: For a return to retro glamour I love ‘Mon Parfum Cherie’ Annick Goiutal. February 2, 2015 at 5:39pm
solanace: Good one! February 3, 2015 at 2:34am
Tati: Yes, I love that one! Very 40’s film noire vibe. February 10, 2015 at 2:59am
angeldiva: Hi Rebecca,
I honestly think that Gaultier smells similar to Shocking. But, I loooove the reformulated Shocking, having bought samples on ebay.
P. February 3, 2015 at 12:03am
Illdone: Boudoir edp by V. Westwood for a more modern version of Schocking? February 3, 2015 at 12:04am
Becky: I loved CartierLe Panthre. Maybe it’s a bit pricey (but I believe it comes in smaller sprays), Tableau de Parfums Miriam is lovely and definitely feels vintage. February 3, 2015 at 7:08pm
Anne-Catherine: Hi Rebecca, I just read the description of the eau de parfum Rozy by Vero profumo at luckyscent. They refer directly to shocking. I don’t know either of the perfumes you mention, nor Rozy but rozy was for many perfumebloggers one of THE best releases from 2014. So probably worth a try.
To me puredistance has also THE quality of the perfumes from the past, expensive but in concentrated version. February 4, 2015 at 9:18am
Heart: Looking for a beautiful, romantic floral for Valentine’s Day. Any suggestions? February 2, 2015 at 10:31am
angeldiva: Fracas. February 3, 2015 at 12:04am
Diane: Carnal Flower or Vero Profumo Mito, voile d’extrait February 6, 2015 at 10:12am
angeldiva: Cacharel AMOUR AMOUR!!!! Christopher Sheldrake loved this scent so much he would wear it!
P. February 7, 2015 at 4:30pm
trudy: I’m looking for a “going out” fragrance but one that I could get away with wearing during the day as well. I don’t seem to have a particular style of fragrance that I like. My favorites are all over the map….Carnal Flower (sometimes), TF Fleur de Chine (but it doesn’t last on me and maybe it sometimes smells a little old fashioned?), By Killian Love Surrender ( very light and fleeting), Beige (sometimes and for daytime only). I would like something “deeper” but not too strong. Something that is a little sexy but sophisticated. My old favorite “going out perfume” used to be Gucci by Gucci EDT but I don’t see it around anymore (the light colored one in the square bottle with the little horse bit chain around the neck, not the brown bottle) . The SA at Nordstom recently suggested Cartier La Panthere or Alien but the former turned sour on me and I just didn’t like the latter. I think I like a “round” fragrance. Lol, not sure if that’s a proper fragrance term or not. Any suggestions welcome! February 2, 2015 at 11:20am
Cornelia Blimber: Paris (YSL) came to my mind. Make sure you have Eau de Parfum, ”rounder” than edt. February 2, 2015 at 11:25am
trudy: Thank you for the suggestion…I’ll give that a sniff! February 2, 2015 at 11:29am
trudy: By the way…I don’t own FB’s of all the ones mentioned above. Just decants or samples I’ve acquired in my search 🙂 February 2, 2015 at 11:26am
Nikki: Have you tried Shalimar Ode a la Vanille sur la Route du Mexique? It is much different from the ones you describe, but worth a try. Soft, feminine and sexy and a little different from the classic Shalimar. February 2, 2015 at 11:28am
Lynley: Have you tried Narciso, the new one in the white bottle? I think that’s well-rounded and definitely nice enough for day or night. February 2, 2015 at 11:29am
Cornelia Blimber: I am also thinking of Idylle (Guerlain), especially the extrait or Idylle Duet Rose & Patchouli. February 2, 2015 at 12:07pm
Anne-Catherine: Do you know Musc Ravageur ( F. malle), Silences (jacomo) or Si intense (Armani)? I think True Lust, the new from Etat Libre d’orange would also fit for these purposes. February 2, 2015 at 12:12pm
trudy: Thanks to all for the wonderful suggestions. I will seek these out and give the a try. February 2, 2015 at 7:27pm
Gentiana: Definitely sample and try on skin:
– All the range of “Poisons” from Dior
– Absolue pour le Soir, Oud – MFK
– Lumiere Noire MFK, Agent Provocateur by A.P., Cabaret by Gres, Portrait of a Lady (fr. Malle), Midnight Oud, Lady Vengeance & Vengeance Extreme by J.H.A.G. – all in the same vein – Rose + pachouli – if you like this combo.
– A big bunch of fragrances from Serge Lutens February 3, 2015 at 8:16am
kayliz: The Serge Lutens that springs to my mind for “round” is Fille de Berlin.
Also, if chocolatey amber sounds good: Alambar by Laboratorio Olfattivo. Am in love with it this winter. February 3, 2015 at 7:18pm
Nancy A.: Byredo’s Bal d’Afrique
Dior’s Cuir Cannage
Bulgari’s Aqua Amara for Men but I see it unisex. Characterized as a “aquatic/woodsy” scent..drydown is soft and sensual
Victoria, I would love to pose a question Are fragrance ingredients different for import/export than those produced in the USA? In other words, what we wear and smell (USA) production create a different result and produced exclusively for different regions worldwide. Thanks! February 2, 2015 at 12:07pm
Victoria: The ingredients themselves may not differ, but some brands blend their own perfumes on location to save on import fees. For instance, Chanel No 5 extrait de parfum is all made in France and imported, but the EDT and EDP may be made in the US. Water and alcohol will differ. Some say that it may make the difference in scent, but I haven’t compared side by side to confirm. February 9, 2015 at 8:02am
Claire H: I have a question for other O Hira lovers: Stephan Humbert Lucas 777’s O Hira costs $825 USD, unfortunately too much for me. Does anyone have a recommendation of something (very) similar that is under $500? February 2, 2015 at 12:11pm
AnnieA: Also, you could describe O Hira’s notes and we can just have a whack at it… February 2, 2015 at 2:42pm
Claire: O Hira: comprised of fossilized amber (this is the sole descriptor note on the site) that is wonderfull smoky and leathery, with a sweet, honey, balsamic undertone that never fully gets rid of the slightly choya-esque, smoky top. To me, it can verge on the edge of pipe tobacco, but there is something I haven’t experienced elsewhere that is a devastatingly aphrodesiacal to me! February 8, 2015 at 1:34pm
James1051: 2 quality labdanum-ambergris combos selling for around 250/100 are Profumum Amber Aurea and Profumi del Forte’s Ambra Mediterrannea. February 2, 2015 at 3:40pm
Claire: I’ve just gone ahead and ordered these samples- thank you for the suggestion! February 8, 2015 at 1:47pm
Joe: O’Hira to me is labdanum dominant and very fine. Closest I can think of is Serge Lutens Ambre Sultan. This has a much spicier opening but then settles into a great labdanum amber. February 5, 2015 at 2:11pm
Claire: I’m ordering this SL suggestion. I’ll let you know what I think. Thank you! February 8, 2015 at 1:48pm
crikey: I’ve not sniffed O Hira yet, but have you tried the Papillon scent, Anubis? Dense, chewy, smoky amber myrrh and leather. Gorgeous stuff, and just under £100 for 50ml
(Related to Dior’s Mitzah, only much deeper and denser, and it doesn’t have the herbal layer of Ambre Sultan.) February 8, 2015 at 8:36am
Claire: I haven’t smelled Anubis yet, but I’ve wanted to. Thanks for the suggestion! February 8, 2015 at 1:35pm
Katie: I have a couple of questions: I am finding that most perfumes are untraceable on my skin by the 4 hour mark: what are your go-to perfumes for scent that last up to 6-8 hours? I love woodsy florals, but most of the time they are simply gone. And, what type of deodorant do you use that doesn’t compete with your perfume? The few unscented ones I have tried aren’t very effective in deodorizing! February 2, 2015 at 1:15pm
Tijana: I tend to stick to certain brands when I want longevity, like Serge Lutens, Kilians and Thierry Muglers – they have proven as longest-lasting on me. Guerlains have a medium longevity on me, but it depends on the fragrance. I use Dove stick deodorant and it does not seem to compete even though it has a mild scent. February 2, 2015 at 1:30pm
Hannah: You might want to try spraying on fabric.
By Kilian Rose Oud lasts 15+ hours on me, but I’ve seen people say it has no longevity. So it’s a bit hard to say which perfumes are long lasting. February 2, 2015 at 1:31pm
Nikki: Have you tried layering? I use Dove moisturizing shower gel and it makes a big difference as my skin is then hydrated. Using a moisturizer and then spraying the perfume really works as well. I always freshen up my perfume during the day, every 3 or 4 hours a little spray behind my neck or knees does the trick.
Have you tried the perfumed body creams yet? Some are so strong, you won’t need the perfume anymore.
I also use Dove perspirant in baby powder and as my perfumes are mainly orientals, it works well. Fate by Amouage lasts all day on me, so does Spellbound by EL. I do prefer to freshen up during the day though, it is more fun. February 2, 2015 at 3:16pm
angeldiva: Hi Katie,
I use a crystal solid, activated by water. Then I go over that with Toms Of Maine solid unscented. Or, the lavender. It doesn’t clash with anything.
And, because of my love and concern for all of you: Please avoid anything with aluminum near your lymph node, armpit area. 🙂
P. February 3, 2015 at 12:10am
angeldiva: Also,
Please Pray.
For : Bobby Kristina Brown. Daughter of the late Whitney Houston. She’s in a coma. Twenty- one years old. Lord, please give this precious child a chance at life.
Thanks! February 3, 2015 at 12:12am
Michaela: Yes! Hope she has chances! February 3, 2015 at 3:32am
Michaela: Thank you, angeldiva! February 3, 2015 at 3:31am
Michaela: Almost all my perfumes last over 8 hours: Jacomo Silences, Grey Flannel, Estee Lauder Private Collection, Bulgari Eau Parfumee au The Vert, Eau de Gaga, Cuir de Lancome, Pour un Homme de Caron, Van Cleefs and Arpels First, Kenzo Jungle, Rochas Tocade, Eau des Merveilles, Arabian attars, Lalique Encre Noire for men.
But I have no woodsy florals, except Burberry Brit Rhythm, if it qualifies. It’s gorgeous.
I’m still searching for an unscented deodorant. I tried coconut oil with calendula, it is OK but not perfect. February 3, 2015 at 4:18am
Gentiana: Hi, Michaela,
Please excuse me for not saving your e-mail adress when you gave it to me, a lot of things happened in that period.
I would really like to talk again about swapping some samples, if you agree. I will go to Bucharest in about 2 weeks. Now it is my turn to give you my e-mail 🙂 February 3, 2015 at 8:39am
Michaela: email saved 🙂 February 3, 2015 at 8:42am
Gentiana: Bois de Jasmin, Please help, edit my post in order to erase my e-mail adress… Please.
Thank you !
🙂 February 4, 2015 at 7:38am
limegreen: Hi Michaela,
See my reply above on Menscience Advanced deodorant (aluminum free, fragrance free).
Your comment on calendula made me think of Weleda products — love the calendula soothing facial creams (for redness from allergies, sunburn, etc.).
I’ve also used Weleda (alum-free) deodorants (the sage one is nicer than the rose one) but these are not as effective in the humid hot summers, or at least without reapplication. (Weleda also has a citrus and maybe lavender deodorant.) February 3, 2015 at 10:43am
Michaela: I had no idea Weleda has deodorants, thank you! I like their toothpastes a lot, they are very well made. February 4, 2015 at 4:25am
limegreen: Thanks for the recommendation on the toothpaste, I always wondered.
the Weleda deodorants are probably the best of the fluid ones. These are not fragrance free but they are made with natural essential oils.
Menscience (and Lab Series) are solids. February 4, 2015 at 10:03am
Michaela: I see, Menscience or Lab Series seem more effective. February 4, 2015 at 5:20am
Kate: I have been using a homemade concoction of organic coconut oil, baking soda and organic cornstarch. You’ll see loads about this online. Miraculously, it does seem to work very well! And I usually need strong protection. February 4, 2015 at 7:09am
Michaela: Thank you, Kate, I’ll try this. Sounds very good. February 4, 2015 at 9:33am
rainboweyes: I use soda deodorants as well, there are several good brands on the market, you might try schmidt’s natural deodorant, Soapwalla Kitchen or Green Love (all of them American brands but available in Europe at ecco-verde or amazingy) and the German brand Wolkenseifen. February 4, 2015 at 12:28pm
Michaela: Thank you! February 5, 2015 at 3:14am
Claire: I can vouch for the Soapwalla deodorant. I work very long hours in an ICU and it’s often quite warm- this deodorant works extremely effectively. Mind you, it won’t keep you dry, but it will keep you from smelling. February 8, 2015 at 1:40pm
limegreen: Thanks for the recipe!
I know Lush has a cornstarch/coconut oil (alum free baking soda maybe?) natural alum-free deodorant that works really well but it’s sold by the pound so you have to use a cube or block the size of a stick of butter. They also have a coconut powder that is like a talc powder which is good for layering with this for the super hot days. February 4, 2015 at 10:08am
limegreen: Hello All — Comment for fragrance-free deodorant only but wanted to share,
Pricey but effective (and no staining):
1. Menscience Advanced Deodorant (aluminum and fragrance free) — stupid and misleading name but all day effective for me, compared to similar products that have to be reapplied: Tom’s, L’Occitane, crystal
2. Lab Series Deodorant (fragrance free, not aluminum free) — works for my husband (all day, unlike mainstream drugstore variety ones) February 3, 2015 at 10:37am
Courant: L’Air de Rien by Miller Harris lasts longest on my skin and seems to provide what you like. The reformulation is not as strong and has made it an easier wear, not that I have ever thought of it as anything but. Strangely, some people make barnyard remarks about it.???? LOL. A stick deodorant, a sensitive mild one, might be better. February 3, 2015 at 3:03pm
DaveStPaul: If you’re not bothered walking up the Men’s Deodorant aisle, Mitchum makes a great unscented deodorant. I asked the same question as you on a male fragrance board, and that one was mentioned the most. It works really well for me. (How is it “for men” when it’s unscented? Good question!) February 3, 2015 at 4:55pm
Maggie: I (female), have been using the Mitchum unscented roll-on anti-perspirant for more than 30 years. It was never labelled as being “for men” until new packaging was introduced here (Australia) a few months ago. I thought this quite odd, but it hasn’t stopped me from buying it! February 3, 2015 at 7:22pm
Katie: What a great suggestion!! Thank you! February 5, 2015 at 12:34am
Jackie: I have experimented with a lot of natural deodorants, and found them not terribly effective and/or irritating to my sensitive skin, such as Tom’s, which itches and burns, but have recently fallen in love with Malin + Goetz’s aluminum- and alcohol-free eucalyptus deo , which has a light, fresh eucalyptus scent at first (which i love) but fades quickly and never seems to interfere with my fragrance. February 5, 2015 at 2:04am
Jackie: Meant to add: it is very effective!! Even when I used full-on antiperspirants, I would occasionally have a problem, but with this I never do! 😉
Though this will not stop me from trying the Mitchum and, um, “Menscience” (silly name!) mentioned above. February 5, 2015 at 2:14am
Tijana: Hi everyone,
This time I actually need some help prioritizing 🙂
The following 5 fragrances are on my “to buy” list, but I can’t decide which one to get first… Maybe you can share your thoughts?
Guerlain Tonka Imperiale, LAP Nuit de Tubereuse and Seville l’Aube, Hermes Santal Massoia and Osmanthe Yunnan.
Thanks!!!!! February 2, 2015 at 1:27pm
Hannah: I’m not familiar with the Hermes ones, but in general I’m leaning towards those. If you have the money, why not knock both out at once?
I’ve heard that those L’Artisan perfumes are best with heat, so you might want to wait until closer to summer. But if you’re in the southern hemisphere, it is already summer so you might want to go ahead. February 2, 2015 at 1:41pm
Tijana: Thanks Hannah!!!! February 2, 2015 at 5:30pm
AnnieA: Which one or ones would fill a hole in your perfume wardrobe? February 2, 2015 at 2:43pm
Tijana: Hi Annie, I don’t have many holes in my perfume wardrobe, I just love these 🙂
But now that I think, I don’t really have a tuberose that I adore… February 2, 2015 at 5:31pm
Nikki: I would get Guerlain Tonka Imperiale. I am not crazy about L’Artisan Parfumeur anymore and I tried all of the special Hermes in their boutique at LAX and I wasn’t impressed, I bought Ambre Narguiile for a friend though. February 2, 2015 at 3:10pm
Tijana: Thanks Nikki! February 2, 2015 at 5:32pm
Therése: Nuit de Tubereuse is on my to buy-list as well! Such a lovely perfume. February 3, 2015 at 2:43am
Tijana: Than you Therese, that is what I am thinking too! February 3, 2015 at 7:02am
Lynley: It’s a difficult question to answer as everyone’s taste is different. You’ve chosen then as you love them, so maybe try and get the ones you can get at sale prices (l’artisan) when you can, and put the rest in order of preference February 3, 2015 at 4:36am
Tijana: Thanks Lynley, I will eventually get them all, I was just curious as to everyone’s tastes and preferences of the 5! 🙂 February 3, 2015 at 7:03am
limegreen: What a lovely list. Sometimes the planning is just as fun.
I love tuberose and Nuit de Tubereuse did not satisfy the yen for me. Seville L’Aube is a lovely orange blossom. By far my favorite on your list is Osmanthe Yunnan — so special and nothing quite like it that I’ve found so far. But then again I put osmanthus over tuberose. 🙂 February 4, 2015 at 10:12am
Tijana: Thank you, that one is definitely very short-listed! 🙂 February 15, 2015 at 7:35pm
Elena: I have had the misfortune 😉 of falling head over heels in love with Xerjoff Bouquet Ideale. It is just way too expensive for me, so I am looking for a less expensive alternative. It doesn’t have to be “inexpensive”, but it must not be $350 for a bottle! I would spend up to $150 for something wonderful, less would be great. Notes on Fragrantica are listed as vanilla, nutmeg, coumarin, guiac woods, cinnamon, tobacco blossom, sandalwood, French labdanum, virginia cedar, and papyrus. It’s sweet and a bit spicy without being a gourmand, I think the spices keep it on the right side for me. It’s classified as a woody oriental, though I don’t find it very woody. One of the things I like best about it is it’s incredible longevity. I get little puffs of scent for at least 12 hours from it, and the projection is really nice. Not too much, but enough where I can smell myself! I know very few oriental fragrances, so I think this is just the first one I really fell for, and I think others might fit the bill. Thank you! February 2, 2015 at 3:21pm
Anne-Catherine: I think you can go for back to black by bykilian. i don’t know THE Xerjoff scent, but the notes are very similar. You don’t need the silly posh cristal bottle in a black box, you can take the refill bottle or the travel spray. Then it’s under your budget. It’s extremely longlasting and also very loud, but very refined.
This one is very similar to Or du Serail from Naomi Goodsir, where THE emphasis is on the tobacco note, also longlasting and Loud. THE other perfumes from Goodsir are also very Nice Woody orientals. February 3, 2015 at 2:57am
Elena: Thank you. I have tried Back to Black and it didn’t wow me. Maybe I’ll re-sample! February 3, 2015 at 4:07pm
Elena: I am just wearing Back to Black now, and I can cross it off of my list. If anyone’s looking for a honey scent, this is your guy! Sweet, a little powdery, and dripping with gooey honey. February 6, 2015 at 9:45pm
Karen: After reading lots about Femme by Rochas, I tried it the other day, and on me it was a sweet spicy mix. It’s quite inexpensive and might be worth trying, especially as a layering option – finding something else to accent a particular note that you love. February 4, 2015 at 6:24am
Elena: Oh, this I will have to try! Every time I read about it, it sounds fabulous. Off my to “someday” try list and onto my “right now” list! Thank you. February 5, 2015 at 2:05pm
Laurels: If you have discount stores like TJ Maxx (I think it’s TK Maxx in the UK), you might look for Jessica Simpson Fancy Nights. The note list is similar, and I got my bottle for $9.99 US. It sounds as if the Xerjoff is spicier, though. February 4, 2015 at 6:49am
angeldiva: Hi Laurels,
Wow! I just ordered a 1oz EDP based on V’s review!!! Looking forward to the patchouly.
P.
With a 20% coupon, and 4.58 in o rewards dollars is was $3.76 US February 4, 2015 at 11:18pm
Elena: Great idea! A little too good? 😉 I already own and very much like my Fancy Nights, and for $10, too. Thank you! A must try for anyone looking in that direction. February 5, 2015 at 2:01pm
Raquel: Has anyone tried Raghba or Ameer al Oudh by Lattafa? Both have very good reviews. February 2, 2015 at 4:05pm
Michaela: I tried Raghba by Lattafa Perfumes, one of my friends has it. It reads pure sugar crystals, if sugar had a scent.
It’s a very sweet amber. It fills the same spot as Chopard Casmir for me, though the scent is not the same.
Great longevity, about 12 hours, and great sillage. Has to be sprayed sparingly.
I love it but I couldn’t find it in my area. I read on Fragrantica that 24 Gold by ScentStory has an almost identical scent. I sampled it, I compared it to my friend’s Raghba and yes, it is identical. Now 24 Gold is a winter staple for me. February 3, 2015 at 3:42am
Uyen: This will be my first time participating in the conversation. I’m so excited to get your feedback. I’m currently obsessing over clean, fresh, invigorating scents. I adore Santa Maria Novella’s Colonia Russa. I think this perfume is made for men, but I can’t get enough of it. To me, it smells like fine French soap found in fancy hotels back in the past. I am on the hunt to find other perfumes that have the same qualities as SMV’s Colonia Russa. I would appreciate any suggestions you have to offer. Thanks so much! 🙂 February 2, 2015 at 4:55pm
Cornelia Blimber: I am not familiar with Colonia Russa, but I know some invigorating colognes, like:
Acqua di Parma Colonia Intensa
Eau de Rochas
Ô de Lancôme
Escale à Portofino (Dior)
Eau du Coq (Guerlain)
Eau Impériale (Guerlain)
Derby (Les Exclusifs de Guerlain, expensive but woth the money)
Equipage (Hermès)
Cristalle Eau Verte (Chanel)
Untitled (Martin Margiela)
Déclaration (Cartier)
Good luck! February 2, 2015 at 5:35pm
Uyen: Hello Cornelia Blimber ~ This is a wonderful list of colognes, and a great start. Thank you for taking the time to help out another perfume connoisseur. Time to go shopping… 🙂 February 9, 2015 at 4:10pm
angeldiva: Welcome Uyen!
I recently discovered a clean effect by layering two relatively inexpensive scents.
Base Layer: L’occitane Verbena
Or: Pacifica Nerola Orange Blossom.
Top Layer: Aromatics Elixir
Or: Eau de Courreges
* I find I can prolong the scent of Le Chevrefuille (not cheap) with the Verbena on the bottom.
Also, layered the Verbena with Giorgio- Oh! how beautiful. Less 80’s Dynasty – more Byredo$$$ !!! lol
P. February 3, 2015 at 12:21am
Uyen: Thank you, Angeldiva! I love the idea of layering. I think I’d like to try your suggestions. Your perfume combinations sound simply beautiful. 🙂 February 9, 2015 at 4:05pm
solanace: Guerlain Vétiver
Annick Goutal Eau d’Hadrien and Nuit Étoilée
Hermès’ Eau d’Orange Verte and Eau de Pamplemousse Rose
I don’t know Colonia Russa either, but these sure are invigorating.
Welcome! February 4, 2015 at 2:58am
Uyen: Hi Solanace – I love your list of suggestions. I am familiar with the notes, but don’t own any of these fragrances to date. I will have to track a few down. Thanks so much for sharing. 🙂 February 9, 2015 at 4:14pm
Raquel: Christian Dior Dolce Vita February 2, 2015 at 6:38pm
Sabrina: What do you recommend? I have loved and worn Shalimar for years. I also enjoy wearing Allure Sensuelle and Cristalle EDP. I am on my second bottle of Flower Bomb but I think I am tired of it.
In the past, I loved layering Samsara with the body lotion from Cartier’s So Pretty. I also enjoyed White Musk from The Body Shop.
I do not like No. 5, Angel, or J’Adore at all.
I like Omnia Crystalline, No. 19, and Infusion d’Iris.
I’d love to hear recommendations! Any thoughts? February 2, 2015 at 7:59pm
angeldiva: Boy, you have great taste! February 3, 2015 at 12:23am
Sabrina: Thank you! February 3, 2015 at 1:45pm
ChanteusedesIles: Since you like Shalimar, have you tried Ormonde Jayne Tolu? Really nice woody oriental amber, also Mona di Orio Les Nombres d’Or Vanille, a creamy sandalwood and smokey spicy vanilla! February 3, 2015 at 2:23am
Sabrina: I am not familiar with those scents but I look forward to trying them! For as much as I am a perfume lover, I have relatively little exposure to scents beyond the department store perfume counter. Thanks so much for the input! February 3, 2015 at 1:48pm
rainboweyes: When you love No. 19, what about Annick Goutal Heure Exquise? It’s very much like No. 19 but softer in the drydown.
Or maybe some of the Chanel Les Exclusifs – 31 Rue Cambon or 28 La Pausa? February 3, 2015 at 4:42am
Sabrina: I have been away from No. 19 for a while and have been thinking of renewing my acquaintance with it. I’ll definitely try your recommendations. Thank you! February 3, 2015 at 1:51pm
Cornelia Blimber: Hi Sabrina! You could try Noir by Tom Ford. February 4, 2015 at 4:02am
Sarah Edell: i love Cardamon but find most perfumes that feature or to be too masculine. I like a little powdery. February 2, 2015 at 9:18pm
Michaela: I love cardamom in Cartier Declaration and Kenzo Jungle, none reads masculine to me, but none reads powdery, either. February 3, 2015 at 4:22am
rainboweyes: To me, Olfactive Studio Lumière Blanche is the perfect powdery cardamom! February 3, 2015 at 4:44am
Danaki: Hermessense Epice Marine has a fresh cardamon, close to being described as soft but not powdery though… February 3, 2015 at 10:39am
Hamamelis: One of my favourite notes, so what about Trayee by Neele Vermeire (expensive though), or 23 Janvier 1984 by Pozzo di Borgo (with iris and fig) or Nu by Yves Saint Laurent (you have to like incense, but it is soft and lovely)? February 3, 2015 at 2:27pm
limegreen: It’s not an obvious note listed but have you tried Jo Malone White Jasmine and Mint? I find it has too much cardamon! Not a “masculine” vibe in this one. February 4, 2015 at 10:14am
NikNik: Tauer’s Incense Rose has a lot of cardamom. Not powdery, but it is feminine. February 5, 2015 at 10:44am
Tati: One of my new favorites is Black Jade by Lubin that features cardamom with rose. February 10, 2015 at 3:17am
Areej: hello!
I have recently fallen in love with Diptyque’s Eau Duelle. I know a lot people consider it an average fragrance because of its low projection but that is what makes it so appealing to me. to me those notes are perfect because of how light they are. I would like to know of any other scents that are similar! Vanilla with spices. February 2, 2015 at 11:24pm
Lynley: Lutens Un Bois Vanille (not as light)
Atelier Vanille Insensee
Nicolai’s Vanille Tonka February 3, 2015 at 4:41am
Anne-Catherine: Charogne by l’etat Libre d’orange. IT starts very different but after half an hour it stays as a bourbon vanille February 3, 2015 at 8:24am
DaveStPaul: Isn’t that Eau Duelle nice?
+1 on Nicolai’s Vanille Tonka
And L’Artisan’s Safran Troublant.
That’s three really nice non-lethal-dose vanillas right there. =:o) February 3, 2015 at 4:34pm
solanace: Thirding Parfums de Nicolai Vanille Tonka. Wonderful stuff.
Also, Goutal’s Vanille Exquise is nice and not too hefty. February 4, 2015 at 8:54am
rainboweyes: Another vote for Nicolai Vanille Tonka!
My favourite spicy vanilla is Vanille Absolument by Artisan Parfumeur but I’m afraid it’s not available anymore. Let’s hope they’ll relaunch it one day as they did with Tea for Two!
I also like Anima Dulcis by Arquiste but I’m afraid it doesn’t fall in the low-projection category… February 4, 2015 at 4:09pm
NikNik: Dries van Noten for Frederick Malle might be good for you. To me it smells a lot like Vanille 44 by Le Labo, which I won’t recommend because it is so hard to get and expensive. It is a woody, spicy, dry vanilla. Really beautiful. February 5, 2015 at 10:48am
marlene: I love the Chanel 19 that I received for Christmas. I love smelling little puffs of it all day,a little aromatherapy on the go. It is not a scent that I smell frequently on others and so I don’t feel like “one of the crowd.” February 3, 2015 at 12:19am
angeldiva: Hi Marlene,
I love that Christie Brinkley wears 19- her signature scent. I’ve been inspired my her beauty and resilience since I was in high school!
P. February 3, 2015 at 12:25am
Brittany: Hello everyone! I’m not well versed in fragrances. I love florals (esp jasmine – that’s actually how I found this community) and I enjoy herbals as well. I use Chagrin Valley Soap & Salve Body Oils (Lovely Lavender & Romantic Spirit).
I’m just about to buy my very first rollerballs to dip my feet in the water :
– Colette (Tocca)
– Mon Jasmin Noir L’Eau Exquise (Bvlgari)
– Dolce (D&G)
– Generous Violet (Gucci)
– Tory Burch
I’m not a huge fan of overly sweet scents. For example, I think La Vie est Belle is really pretty, but I don’t think i could wear it all day since it’s so sweet (to me, at least).
I’d love to hear any recommendations from you Lovlies! I’m very excited to go down this rabbit hole! February 3, 2015 at 9:24am
Danaki: Ooh..good choices.
Like you, I came across this blog whilst searching online for jasmine plants for my balcony! Fat chance, I live in northern England. For recommendations:
Hermes Jour d’Hermes is a good one because it is white flowers, and it is fresh but not sweet with a citrus top note.
If you like jasmine, and not afraid of it on its own, A la Nuit by Serge Lutens, but do try before you buy it because some people find it disgusting (!)
Lush have Sikkim Girls which is a healthy dose of jasmine and ylang, and this one can be inexpensive. I bought the smallest size.
If you come across Aqua di Parma, well, their Gelsomino Nobile edp is sweetish for me, and apparently has a tuberose note. Not their edt, which is my preference, I find it fresher and more…exuberant.
I find that when sweet notes are mixed in with white flowers, it is sickly. I prefer my sweet perfumes on the amber-y side for winter or vanilla based scents. I like my white flowers on the fresh side, if that makes sense. February 3, 2015 at 10:50am
Katy: I like Lush Lust, which explores the camphorous aspects of Jasmine and Pacifica’s Wakiki Pikake is really nice too. February 3, 2015 at 1:57pm
Brittany: Thanks for helping me! I’ll be heading over to ULTA tomorrow to try Pacifica’s Wakiki Pikake! I can’t wait. February 4, 2015 at 1:45am
Brittany: Wow, thank you for such an in-depth answer! And even putting what each one smells like. I appreciate it! I really can’t wait to try out your suggestions 🙂
-Hermes Jour d’Hermes sounds like it’s right up my alley
– I’ve read a lot about A La Nuit. I’m not really sure where to go sample it, though. But, admittedly, I’m slightly scared haha. Today I tried out Michael Kors’ Glam Jasmine and it was not my cup of tea.
and YES! You absolutely make sense! I’m so glad you’re saying what I’m thinking haha. I feel validated. February 4, 2015 at 1:42am
Karen: Don’t be scared of A la Nuit! It is gorgeous, and truly captures the beauty and complexity of jasmin. On another post I commented that I never thought of myself as a jasmin perfume lover, but got some to recall travels – then noticed my bottle is 2/3 gone!
Also, try some of the older classics, there is a great post by Victoria on them. Many have a more complex feel than many new perfumes, and don’t have the overly sweet aspect you want to avoid.
Try sampling from Luckyscent, The Perfumed Court, or Surrender to Chance. February 4, 2015 at 6:33am
Hamamelis: A lovely not expensive jasmin is Tendre Jasmin by Yves Rocher, with a lovely mimosa note. The website sells a 5 ml cute bottle for 2 euro’s. February 3, 2015 at 3:09pm
Katyk: I’m looking for a sandalwood perfume that lasts. I love the complexity tam dao but it doesn’t last at all. I’ve also tried 10 Corso Como. I’m also open to a really great sandalwood oil if anyone knows of one. Thanks! February 3, 2015 at 11:21am
Anne-Catherine: Then you should go for santal 33 from Le Labo. it’s like wearing a sandalwood tree and if you apply iT, it takes a long time to evaporate because it feels like applying an oil. My teacher of conservation of furniture who determines Woods by their smell, loves it. It’s a unisex scent with a huge sillage and very longlasting. Sandalwood is one of my favorite notes and this one is the best you can get if you only want sandalwood February 3, 2015 at 12:18pm
Katy: If you are open to experimenting with essential oils, order a sample of sandalwood and layer it with your Tam Dao. I like Eden Botanicals but there are others. I find that sandalwood essential oil will tie a fragrance to my skin very nicely, especially perfumes that tend to not last long enough, it is also lovely just by itself. February 3, 2015 at 1:25pm
uxorious: I’m a guy but really liked Lancome’s ‘La vie est belle’ so I decided to try it (very brave of me). I’ve worn it twice now and have received four compliments (all from women) saying how wonderful the fragrance is, but none of them realized it was a woman’s fragrance!
What are your thoughts on this? Apart from marketing, people don’t seem to notice whether a fragrance is masculine or feminine… only whether they like it or not? February 3, 2015 at 11:44am
AnnieA: I think a man who has the courage to wear something floral in in fact quite manly, if that makes sense. It should be whatever smells great on a person. The only sticky point might be if you are asked for its name. That’s not just for guys, as some names are tricky, e.g. no way I could admit to wearing Putain des Palaces… February 3, 2015 at 1:10pm
DaveStPaul: Hey, you found a scent you really like and that others like as well — good on you, mate!
I think you’re right: Most people only notice if they like the smell or not.
And even then most people won’t need to know *exactly* what you’re wearing. If they ask, you could answer, “Lancome,” and they’ll say, “Wow, nice!” And that will be that.
I’m a guy as well, and alongside my Mugler Cologne and Rive Gauche Pour Homme etc., I own and love ELdO’s Jasmin and Cigarettes, which is “classified” as a feminine. When you love a smell, you love a smell, what can you say? February 3, 2015 at 4:44pm
Michaela: Yes, yes and yes 🙂 February 4, 2015 at 4:29am
Karen: If anyone “cares” that you’re wearing a fragrance marketed to women, then their opinion isn’t worth caring about! Its great you found something that obviously works for you. And how we choose to adorn ourselves just makes the world a more beautiful place. (ok, off my soapbox now….)
I like Dave’s idea about a vague Lancôme response if anyone asks. February 3, 2015 at 4:53pm
solanace: All I can say is, keep being brave! That’s cool. Very cool indeed, good for you. Why be restricted only to half the offers? Just the other day we were commenting about how great Jolie Madame would smell on a guy – no any guy, a brave one. 🙂 February 4, 2015 at 3:09am
Kate: Couldn’t agree more. Apart from vetiver, which is stubbornly fixed in my mind as a ‘masculine’ note, I think many fragrances categorised as masculine or feminine are interchangeable.
Some of the ‘feminine’ fragrances which I’ve always thought a particularly stylish man could carry off are Lolita Lempicka, Donna Karan Black Cashmere, Chergui (unisex anyway probably), and FM Portrait of a Lady. Re the latter, for some reason I love rose scents on a man. But then I just love rose scents in general 🙂 February 4, 2015 at 7:16am
angeldiva: Dear Uxorious,
I believe in clothing rights i.e. -women can wear mens clothing. And, men can wear women’s clothing- not such a big deal.
When it comes to fragrance I think there is some trial and error involved. Unisex scents are a dicey prospect for me- as I’ve shared before, I don’t want to smell like a dude at a disco. And, I
wore Guerlains Imperiale for years. Heaven.
But, when it comes to what I want to smell on a man I’m attracted to – or for purposes of attraction- there are some limits. Lemon and citrus seem safe for a man like O de Lancome. Many of the darker juice Serge Lutens would be thrilling on a male. But, I’m not sure about rose, sweet florals or gourmands.
If I were a dude I wouldn’t hesitate to wear a woman’s spicy oriental scent. I think Guy Laroche Jai Ose would me amaze balls on a guy! lol
P. February 4, 2015 at 7:21pm
angeldiva: Oh, hell what a typo! I mean’t to write;
“It would BE amaze balls.’
not “It would me amaze balls.’
*Is it good to be embarrassed once in a while?
Regionally speaking this is a fashion term… February 4, 2015 at 7:28pm
Irina: Hello 🙂
I am head over heels in love with Après l’Ondée EDT – the unsettling, fragile sentiment it brings. Unfortunately, it has no staying power on me whatsoever. Are there any similar fragrances that are not extremely powdery (e.g. the powder in l’Heure Bleue is too much for my novice nose)?
If it’s a simple question, I apologize 🙂 I’m very new to wearing more than one perfume and I still have a huge backlog BdJ posts to read 🙂 February 3, 2015 at 12:39pm
AnnieA: No, don’t think it’s a simple question at all. Thought I remembered something about a Tocca perfume, but it is NOT Violetta. February 3, 2015 at 1:25pm
Katy: Mix some of the perfume with an unscented moisturizer and then spray the perfume on too. Sometimes this double layer of the same fragrance will make it last longer. I have to do tis with Bvlgari Black, which is just gone on me in about an hour. February 3, 2015 at 1:28pm
angeldiva: BRILL !!! February 4, 2015 at 7:31pm
Courant: There’s a thread on Fragrantica where a contributor mentions that Yardley Iris and L’Heure Bleu EDT creates an ALO imposter. I have tried this as I have both and there is some truth to it, although one can never replicate the watercolour of ALO. Is ‘Close, no cigar’ good enough? February 3, 2015 at 3:08pm
angeldiva: Hi Courant!
I’ve been waiting for someone to repost this technique! But, I don’t recognize what ALO is?
I will have both, soon and can’t wait to experiment.
P. February 3, 2015 at 5:49pm
Karen: Après l’Ondee?
PS Angeldiva, I think I’ve found a new love – L’heure Bleue EDP, it is so beautiful on! The EdT was way to sweet, but the EDP is quite magical. February 3, 2015 at 6:15pm
angeldiva: Hi Karen,
I’m sooo happy for you. I have a sample of L’heure Bleue, and it is waaay swelligant on me. It is an important historical scent. Can’t wait to layer it.
P. February 4, 2015 at 7:34pm
Maggie: Malle En Passant is supposed to be similar to Après l’Ondée, also try the new Oriza L. Legrand, Heliotrope Blanc. As Al’O is predominately Heliotropin and Iris these are the notes to explore. Mimosa and almond are other notes to look out for, along similar lines to heliotrope.
L’Heure Bleue is a different animal, more orange blossom in its emphasis, which many people find too soapy or powdery. Hope this helps. February 3, 2015 at 8:12pm
Irina: Thank you so much, everyone! I now have a list of samples and I will definitely try moisturizing and layering. Just dying to capture this fleeting beauty for a little longer! February 3, 2015 at 10:09pm
angeldiva: Poetic! February 4, 2015 at 7:36pm
spe: Esprit d’ Oscar ny Oscar de la Renta. A modern l’heure bleu / apres l’ondee. February 6, 2015 at 12:43pm
Katy: The Esprit d’Oscar is just gorgeous! There is something very L’heure Bleue ish about it. I layer it with a jasmine and coconut body lotion. February 7, 2015 at 11:47am
Vanie: I think Angéliques sous la pluie and Matin d’Orage, although they don’t smell completely alike, might give you a similar feeling. February 4, 2015 at 6:19am
NikNik: Frederick Malle’s L’Eau d’Hiver is Elena’s modern interpretation of Après l’Ondée. It retains the fragility that you are looking for. It’s really beautiful. It last about 6-8 hours on my skin. February 5, 2015 at 10:54am
Kate: Hello everybody 🙂
I am on a never-ending search for the perfect rose scent (yes I know that’s unoriginal of me). I’ve tried lots: FM Lipstick Rose, Une Rose (too geraniumy), FM Portrait of a Lady (surprisingly chilly), l’Artisan Drole de Rose, Montale Deep Roses, Lady Vengeance (too two-note), YSL Paris and probably lots more…
Are there any that I must try? I love violet-rose, jammy rose and to a lesser extent grassy rose/ patchouli rose combos. I dislike rose fragrances that have even a hint of geranium in them.
Thanks in advance 🙂 February 4, 2015 at 7:23am
Karen: Stella is a lovely rose, reasonable cost and found at Ulta among other department stores. La Fille de Berlin is a dark rose, and gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous! (but try a sample as if PoaL didn’t work for you, it may not either). Pacifica (found at Whole Foods and other natural food stores) has beautiful and inexpensive fragrances, their line has a rose – Persian Rose I believe is the name. February 4, 2015 at 8:07am
Kate: Gosh, have had a quite look online (including Viktoria’s review) and La Fille de Berlin sounds right up my street. I do very much like PoaL, but you know how it is, a rose scent is that obscure object of desire and no sooner does one find a suitable candidate than one starts looking elsewhere. LFdB sounds delicious though. I haven’t been keeping up with SL releases since there seem to be so many of them!
Must check the Pacifica range out too, thank you! February 4, 2015 at 8:25am
Karen: I’ve gotten more compliments when wearing La Fille, and some have been especially poignant. It is just absolutely stunning and works for any time and season. February 4, 2015 at 9:30am
Patricia: One of my top ten! February 4, 2015 at 5:18pm
Annette: Hi, if you like jammy rose you might try Andy Tauer’s Une Rose Vermeille. February 4, 2015 at 8:20am
Kate: LOVE jammy rose, so I must try 🙂 February 4, 2015 at 1:12pm
George: Mohur, Nahema, No. 18, Rose Cut. I also have high expectations of the upcoming Misia and A La rose by Chanel and Francis Kurdijian. February 4, 2015 at 9:33am
Kate: Nahema is a perennial love. No. 18 tried very hard to love (even had a massive full bottle) but something overly dry and herbal meant it wasn’t to be. I couldn’t identify any rose in it at all! Misia – oh dear, I’ve been reading descriptions of this on line and I’m half hoping it’ll be a horror because the damage to my wallet is likely to be considerable if it is not… February 4, 2015 at 1:06pm
Elena: Seconding Rose Cut. Can’t get enough! Also, if you have Lush where you live, go there early next holiday season, around Thanksgiving, and get a nice big bottle of Rose Jam shower gel. It doesn’t last, but it is such a wonderful blast of jammy rose in the shower. I find it totally addictive. I hear their Ro’s Argan Body Conditioner has a similar scent which lasts, which you might enjoy and layer with anything to get a more jammy rose feel. February 6, 2015 at 9:50pm
Michaela: Maybe you already know these, but Stella and Tocade are such luminous and feminine roses. February 4, 2015 at 9:36am
Kate: I’ve loved Stella when I’ve smelled it on other people so maybe I need to revisit it – given that it has a prominent amber note which is another favourite of mine.
And I can’t believe I’ve never sniffed Tocade, that is an omission! 🙂 February 4, 2015 at 1:08pm
Polinia: Hi Kate,
I am on the same search. I like Fille de Berlin but sometimes it’s a bit strong for me.
I like Paestum Rose by Eau d’Italie – it’s so boozy and light, real joy.
Nevermore by Frapin is very interesting – I am sure every rose-loving person should try it.
My recent experience was with Un Air d’Arabie Musk by Dorin – powdery rose, so sensual, but too musky drydown. February 4, 2015 at 10:58am
Kate: Paestum Rose is really interestingly incensey, don’t you think? Rather unisex too.
I look forward to hunting down the others you’ve mentioned! February 4, 2015 at 1:11pm
Polinia: Paestum Rose is very juicy, succulent and boozy for me. Better in warm weather.
Roses can be so different and that makes your search even more exciting.
Good luck! February 6, 2015 at 7:19am
rainboweyes: I can recognize myself here, searching for the perfect iris scent 😉
My rose recomendations are: Coup de Foudre by Parfums DelRae, Perles de Lalique, Van Cleef & Arpels Rose Velours, Terry Gunzburg Rose Infernale, Byredo Rose Noir and Brecourt Rosa Gallica. Enjoy 🙂 February 4, 2015 at 12:42pm
rainboweyes: I also second Paestum Rose and Mohur, mentioned before. February 4, 2015 at 12:43pm
Kate: All great suggestions, thank you!
I sometimes think the point of the search is not to find the ‘perfect’ perfume but to have fun along the way. The more perfume I experience, the more horrifyingly picky I become. Where rose is concerned, it’s like I have some Platonic form of a rose fragrance in my head which cant possibly exist in reality. And you’re not alone, I’m like that about iris too! 🙂 February 4, 2015 at 1:15pm
rainboweyes: I’m with you Kate! But as most iris scents are based on processed iris root extract (a scent you practially never encounter in nature), it’s easier to get rid of that Platonic picture in my head.
I was hunting for the perfect iris flower scent for a while (just as these apricot-caramel scented beauties in my garden) but I gave it up very soon.
I absolutely enjoy comparing various interpretations of one scent note, though, it’s really fascinating! February 4, 2015 at 4:18pm
angeldiva: Aerin Lauder has a new rose perfume. Very well reviewed.
P. February 5, 2015 at 8:53pm
Nina Z: Try Sa Majeste la Rose as well as the other Serge Lutens roses. Montale has many roses, but my absolute favorite is Highness Rose, the most realistic rose I’ve smelled. I also like their Taif Rose. You could also try Ormonde Jayne Taif, which has a lot of fans. Try also Jo Malone Red Roses.
I went on a search similar to yours, and because a lot of roses go sour on me and I have a problem with a lot of the modern synthetic components, I ended up settling on vintage Nahema (fiery intense rose) and the discontinued Gucci L’Arte di Gucci (beautiful dark rose). Yes, these are hard to find, but if you are patient, you can get them at prices lower than the current niche perfumes. So I recommend sampling them if possible because they don’t go shrill or sour. February 4, 2015 at 1:03pm
Kate: I did try OJ Ta’if and found it disappointingly flat and dusty, although the love it gets in so many quarters makes me wonder if I’m not anosmic to something in the mix… Tolu and Woman are my favourites of hers.
Vintage Nahema, wow, I can only imagine how fabuous that would be. It’s such a stunning fragrance. Thanks for the tips, I will lurk online and see whether I can track any of those down. February 4, 2015 at 1:20pm
JoDee: Hello Kate! I love several rose fragrances. My top favorites are:
Rose Splendide by Annick Goutal
Miss Charming by Juliette Has A Gun
La Fille de Berlin by Serge Lutens
Rose di Siwa by MDCI
Rose Oud by Killian
Stella by Stella McCartney
Hope you find your perfect rose scent! February 4, 2015 at 2:01pm
Kate: They sound great! I have sampled Rose Splendide and it is fantastic – a proper fresh stemmy green rose, with a just-picked smell. I was shocked by how realistic it was. February 6, 2015 at 3:30pm
kayliz: Hi Kate,
My favourites are Fille de Berlin and Rose Kashmirie by Les Parfums de Rosine.
Btw: Rosine does a very good value sample set of their 15(!) rose fragrances, and according to the terms & conditions on their website will ship anywhere in the world. February 5, 2015 at 4:50am
Kate: Thanks Kayliz, I have just had a quick look at the Parfums de Rosine website and that sample set is very tempting, and as you say, good value too. February 6, 2015 at 3:32pm
Danaki: Another one to try is Tobacco Rose by Papillon Perfumery, a British indie brand.
Also, L’artisan parfumeur Voleur de Roses. Have you tried Clinique Beyond Rose and MEMO French Leather?
Don’t forget ELDO Rossy di Palma too, though if you’re not keen on patchouli, best avoid.
Good luck.
p.s. my favourite rose is SL La Fille de Berlin just to second some of the earlier suggestions February 5, 2015 at 1:44pm
Kate: Ooh, love patchouli. I have a feeling Rossy di Palma might be right up my street 🙂 Thanks for the tips – I didn’t know about the Clinique fragrance! La Fille de Berlin seems to be getting a lot of love here… February 6, 2015 at 3:34pm
Nemo: I will add Olympic Orchids Ballet Rouges, which I find to be wonderfully jammy. Good luck! I have been doing the same search, on and off, for at least a year 🙂 February 6, 2015 at 9:09am
Kate: Thanks Nemo, jammy roses are a big temptation for me. In fact, the ideal jammy rose would probably be my perfect rose scent. If there is such a thing! February 6, 2015 at 3:36pm
Maggie: Ooh, well, in that case – Parfumerie Generale Isparta. Also, second Tobacco Rose and French Leather. February 7, 2015 at 6:32pm
Danielle: I agree with everyone suggesting SL La Fille de Berlin! It’s magic.
But I’d also like to suggest Dark by Andrea Maack. It’s a fun citrus rose! February 8, 2015 at 2:41am
Claire: I recommend trying Vero Profumo Rozy (Voile d’ Extrait- I haven’t tried the EdP). It’s an unusual rose but for me utterly intoxicating. A little dirty, very sexy and unusual but also quite glamorous/ sophisticated. It’s unlike any other rose scent I’ve tried. Also, I quite like the jammy voluptuousness of Aftelier’s Wild Roses. It is velvet and spicy but retains a spherical, fruity quality that feels simultaneously sensual and totally innocent. (But not too fruity sweet- more boozy). February 8, 2015 at 2:50pm
Tati: My current rose loves: Une Rose, Soir de Lune, Rosam, Kilian Rose Oud, Black Jade. February 10, 2015 at 6:04pm
Annette: Dear fragrant people, it’s me again, the woman on a Scotland-themed perfume quest:). I am so so so extremely happy to report that my journey has ended. Not an hour ago I brought home my Holy Grail in the shape of a full gorgeous bottle of Bitter Rose, Broken Spear from D.S & Durga. Oh boy, I’m so happy!
Thank you all who have given me suggestions and recommendations since I put my request here last September (special thanks to George!). Dear people, you have been so helpful and friendly and encouraging. Thank you!
And now rejoice with me:)) February 4, 2015 at 8:13am
George: Pleasure! x February 4, 2015 at 9:33am
Annette: George, so lovely to see your reply. I can now thank you personally. Thank you! And do you know that I am now a huge Hylnds fan? I’ll be soon saving for another bottle (Isle Ryder). Thank you again! February 4, 2015 at 9:51am
Michaela: Enjoy it! I couldn’t help you but I liked your quest so much. I’m happy you found the perfect answer. February 4, 2015 at 9:38am
Annette: Michaela, thank you! My quest was really wonderful and believe me, I felt everybody’s support, yours too! (Oh my, do I sound like Frodo coming home?! Quest! And journey’s end! But I am chuffed. So be it!) February 4, 2015 at 9:57am
angeldiva: Ahhhhhh……Afterglo…….!!!! February 4, 2015 at 11:13pm
Annette: Yup!! 🙂 February 5, 2015 at 4:17am
Tourmaline: Hi there Annette,
I have just found your comment. (I’m catching up on about three weeks’ worth of BdJ articles.) I am glad that you finally have your bottle of “Bitter Arrow, Broken Spear” and that you are so happy with it. How is it holding up, now that you have lived with it for about a week and a half? I hope that it still pleases you once any novelty has worn off. Also, have you had the opportunity yet to begin re-reading any of the Lymond books whilst wearing it, and if so, has it enhanced the experience?
By the way, I remember you saying that you would be buying the fragrance for your birthday in February, so for whenever that was or is, I wish you many happy returns of the day! February 12, 2015 at 11:14pm
Annette: Hi, Tourmaline! How nice to hear from you. I was wondering is something had happened to you. But you are back so… all is well with the world:)
Listen, I haven’t worn my perfume yet! I am waiting for my birthday (which is this Sunday) to mark the occassion in the best possible way! I love some rituals, in a way:) I bought the fragrance last week because I just couldn’t wait any longer.
So I haven’t yet read a single sentence from the Lymond chronicles wearing my fragrance. But rereading I am! Naturally:) I’m in the third volume, set first in Malta, then back in Scotland. It’s wonderful, of course! (BTW, I have finished rereading Middlemarch and again was left with the feeling that there is no other novel like that. Luckily, there’s Dorothy Dunnett.)
Thank you for your wishes:) I will remember you on Sunday. Have a great weekend! February 13, 2015 at 1:03am
Tourmaline: Hi Annette,
Thank you for thinking of me!
Rest assured that I fully understand both the desire to purchase an item in advance while you have the opportunity (particularly when you have your heart set on it) and the desire to wait until a particular special day to open or use it for the first time. I follow those sorts of rituals as well, in relation to gifts that I have received as well as things that I have bought for myself.
It sounds as though you are well and truly immersed in the world of Lymond again, and that wearing the perfume for the first time will be (oh dear, here it comes) the icing on the (birthday) cake! (I am so sorry for that one…)
You shall have to report back sometime to let us know how your relationship with “Bitter Rose, Broken Spear” develops.
I don’t know any regional Scottish, so English will have to do: Happy Birthday To You! February 15, 2015 at 7:11am
Annette: Hi Tourmaline,
Yes, the bottle has been opened and the perfume has been worn!:) And yes, it is still absolutely wonderful. Part of the charm is of course the meaning I ascribe to it, and also my quest, my testing, my wait. I almost feel like a heroine of some medieval romance:) To paraphrase Queen Elizabeth I: I am married to Scotland. Ha, ha!
Thank you again for your wishes. I had no proper birthday cake, but I made a chocolate Pavlova (hello, Australia!) and stuck the candles into it. Precarious but doable:)
All the best to you, dear Tourmaline. Please give my regards to you father (I somehow cannot think of Lymond now without thinking of your acomplished father:)). February 17, 2015 at 9:20am
Tourmaline: Dear Annette,
I’m sorry to be so late with my reply once again. I am going through one of those patches in life where everything seems to happen at once and I am behind with almost everything. (Among other things, a close friend in her forties is undergoing chemotherapy following surgery for uterine cancer, last week I attended the memorial service for a dear mentor, yesterday my beloved maternal aunt had a mastectomy following her second diagnosis of breast cancer, and I have suffered excruciating tooth pain and am part-way through my fourth root canal process. Clearly, in the grand scheme of things, I have very little to complain about at the moment; I am simply rather preoccupied. I won’t mention the above again in this forum, however if I appear to drop off the planet for a few months, then you will understand why!)
I am glad that you are enjoying Bitter Rose, Broken Spear, which will no doubt always have a special place in your heart. I look forward to sampling it myself one day. I have noticed with amusement that in my 12 March comment I referred to it as “Bitter Arrow, Broken Spear”. Perhaps I was thinking of the poison that is sometimes placed on the tips of arrows and spears (curare), or perhaps my brain was just coming up with rhymes (rose, a rose, arrow…). Anyway, my apologies for being “off with the pixies”!
A chocolate Pav – what a delicious treat for your birthday! I can well imagine how difficult it would be to place candles within the crisp outer shell without cracking it all to pieces. My late mother was a wonderful cook, and her Pavlova was a family favourite. Every year for the four years since she died, I have made her Pavlova recipe for Christmas lunch dessert for my father and my two brothers and myself, and it is becoming something of a tradition. As Christmas Day is often swelteringly hot in Brisbane, something very light to follow fresh prawns (courtesy of my older brother) and roast chicken and vegetables (cooked by my younger brother) is perfect. Last year I topped the classic Pav with whipped cream, large pitted cherries and icing sugar “snow”. Perhaps this year I shall follow your lead and try my hand at a chocolate version!
By the way, I am disappointed to have to report that when I asked my father whether he had ever read Middlemarch, he replied that he had once begun to read it… Oh dear, I can hear your screams from all the way over here! At least his favourite author is a woman: Jane Austen. He re-reads all of her books on a regular basis.
Well, here in Australia, “autumn” begins tomorrow, however we are not actually blessed with four well-defined seasons, and at the moment it is still fairly hot. I am hoping that a change is in the wind… All the very best to you, Annette. February 28, 2015 at 12:21pm
Annette: Dear Tourmaline, poor you! I am sorry to read about the rough patch you’re going through. Sometimes it just pours. But things must get better, call it karma or justice or whatever. Be strong and don’t lose heart. And don’t disappear from here! I know that perfumistas are very generous and kind people and will always offer their support (or at least send fragrant good vibes:)) Be assured of my good wishes. I am reaching over and (virtually) patting your hand. Everything will be all right!
Ha ha, I noticed your misspelling but prudently said nothing:) Bitter Arrow sounds great and Mr Moltz should reconsider when he prepares his next batch.
Your Pavlova tradition is wonderful. I practically always prepare a chocolate version (from Nigella Lawson’s recipe) since all my family like it very much. But my Pav is a far cry from your canonical Australian real thing:)) I know because a few months ago a friend who had lived many years in Australia organized a Pavlova baking workshop and I learnt all the intricacies. The thing is, when I reproduced this true thing at home, my family (somewhat timidly) told me that my Pav was better. The horror!! Because they liked my crisp meringue and wanted to feel they were actually munching and not having the thing melt in their mouths. The horror, I tell you!! And now what to do? Satisfy them or myself?:)
And about Middlemarch and your splendid father. No, I am not shouting or crying! I would be crying if he had read the novel and hated it. I wonder what you will say when you read it.
I hope you are better, dear Tourmaline. Don’t disappear!:) March 2, 2015 at 10:42am
Tourmaline: Dear Annette,
Thank you for your good wishes. The BdJ perfumistas are indeed very supportive; rest assured that I was not suggesting otherwise. I just wanted to explain why my replies had been so tardy of late and why I would continue to be preoccupied over the next few months. (I might not have much time to spend on the Internet).
I was interested to read that you had the opportunity to learn how we make a Pavlova here in Australia. I think that whoever in your family most wants your usual Nigella Lawson version (which I have no doubt is wonderful) should learn how to make it and that you should make whatever you please! For my part, I must try Nigella’s recipe sometime because I would like to sample a crisper version.
As regards my father and Middlemarch, I was rather unclear (probably because I didn’t want to say the words…). The reason why he only ever began it and didn’t finish it was that he didn’t find it compelling and laid it aside. Ah well, can’t read ‘em all…
Thanks again, Annette, and all the best to you. (No need to reply) March 3, 2015 at 8:03am
Karitas: Hi everyone! I just recently got into perfume and am totally smitten with Shalimar. I am looking for something a bit more casual and clean, preferably something good in a professional setting. On a day to day basis I wear a musk perfume oil as well as gravitating towards men’s cologne such as L’occitane eau des baux and The Body Shop White musk for men. I do love musk/vanilla/leather/spice, but I’m also getting a bit bored and want to change things up a bit.
I tend to dislike most aquatic and fruity scents. I’m also on a student budget so anything affordable would be nice! February 4, 2015 at 12:11pm
kayliz: Hi,
Not sure where you are but if you can get hold of it, try Eau des Missions Botanical Cologne by Le Couvent des Minimes. Don’t be put off by the name: it’s an elegant dry woody vanilla. Where I am (Germany) one of the major drugstore chains sells it in the natural cosmetics section — again, don’t be put off! It’s all a ploy to ensure this great fragrance is only found by the deserving perfumistas who go searching for it;) February 5, 2015 at 4:58am
Karitas: Sounds lovely 🙂 I’m definitely putting it on my list. Thank you! February 5, 2015 at 2:21pm
rainboweyes: Hi Karitas, what about these: Atelier Cologne Vanille Insensée or Silver Iris, Eau Moderne by Thirdman, Hermès Eau de Narcisse Bleu, Etat Libre d’Orange Fils de Dieu, du Riz et des Argumes, Olfactive Studio Lumière Blanche? February 4, 2015 at 4:28pm
Karitas: Oh thanks! I look forward to checking those out! February 5, 2015 at 2:15pm
Elena: Do try Fils de Dieu. It is wonderful! Shares DNA with Shalimar, so modern and wonderful. February 6, 2015 at 9:53pm
Rachel: I have to say,that is a beautiful picture of your country. I hear the news and worry.
Thanks for your lovely and delightful blog. I love your sensibility, writing and perspective. February 5, 2015 at 11:14am
Victoria: Thank you very much, Rachel! And thank you for your thoughts. February 9, 2015 at 7:59am
Terry Jorgenson: I would love a perfume that smells like Old Spice only More! Better! Longer! Any suggestions? February 5, 2015 at 4:44pm
Nina Z: Eau Lente by Diptyque is very spicy! I love it, as I find it both uplifting and comforting at the same time. Also try the original Diptyque L’Eau, which smells like a spicy potpourri. February 6, 2015 at 2:25pm
Cornelia Blimber: Maybe Le Baiser du Dragon (Cartier).
or Noir Epices (this one smells to my nose like Grand Marnier, but many perfumelovers call it very spicy).(Coll.F.Malle). February 6, 2015 at 5:10pm
Hannah: I second these suggestions. February 6, 2015 at 7:43pm
Terry Jorgenson: Thank you kind ladies… both for your suggestions and for finding my deeply buried question. I love Diptique St Germaine 34. ( I know Victoria did not care for it, but I swoon over that scent…there are advantages to being an amateur!) I look forward to seeking out your suggestions. Thank you again. February 7, 2015 at 8:09pm
Carrie: I’ve been wearing Jo Malone “French lime blossom ” for several years and always get comments on the beautiful smell. I just sprayed my last and am looking for a new floral scent ( I’m a floral designer). I like soft and pretty not deep woodsy – suggestions February 7, 2015 at 10:53am
Katy: This is a difficult category for me because “soft” translates to gone on my fragrance absorbing skin. Unless you are aldehyde/powder averse, I think you can not do much better then Chanel No 5. I think Cartier Baiser Vole in all it’s permutations, EDP, EDT and essence are beautiful fresh lily centric fragrances. I think Esprit de Oscar by Oscar de la Renta is a lovely and zesty at the top white floral. Also, read Victoria’s review of Burberry Brit Rhythm, a soft, peony centric fragrance. I love the way Stella smells on my co-workers. I tried to mention things that are easy to find at most department stores, I am sure there are some niche fragrances that fit this category but you would need to order samples, unless you have access to these treasures. February 8, 2015 at 11:50am
Carrie: Thanks! So excited to try these wonderful florals. I’m new at this – where do u request samples? In the stores? February 10, 2015 at 6:30am
Brooke: I’d suggest Ormonde Jayne Frangipani. A beautiful light floal with a very nice lime blossom note. February 10, 2015 at 5:57am
Carrie: Yummy. Looking forward to trying this new fragrance February 10, 2015 at 6:30am
Katy: Help! I am very embarrassed to admit this but I cannot find a Serge Lutens I totally love. I am ready to throw in the towel and have my Perfumista credentials stripped away! There is something in all the ones I have tried that reads as acrid on my skin. The only other way to describe this troubling note is as perspiration in the armpits of an all polyester shirt or dress. It is by far the worst in Serge Noire but there is also something similarly annoying in Femininite du Bois, both the Serge version and the Shiseido version. I was similarly distressed by something in the holy of holies Nombre Noir. There is something equally persistent and troubling with the incense note in Gris Clair. I like Borneo 1834 but it is not love. I bought a bottle of Chergui thinking this is a good entry level Serge that most people love and now I wear it too but I had to doctor it. I added some Ylang-Ylang essential oil to it, 2 drops right in the bottle to get some lift and projection out of it and this really enhanced the tobacco note in there. I am guilty of completely bastardizing a modern masterpiece! Shame, oh the shame. Give me some guidance wise ones or just tell me to give it up! February 7, 2015 at 8:17pm
Sofie: Katy, by the sounds of it, you’ve tried very hard. No shame in not liking a line. you’re not a perfumista because you own several bottles of SL but because you enjoy perfume and scent. Look at it this way: one line less to keep up with ;-). so many other beautiful perfumes out there, why don’t you just have fun with them and see what does suit you and your skin. There’s no set formula, no certain things you ‘have’ to like, it’s YOUR journey after all. And your wallet to, might as well spend it on things you really enjoy :-). February 8, 2015 at 7:13am
Victoria: Such wise words, Sofie! I’m tempted to publish them as a separate post. Perfumista is simply someone who loves perfume and scents, and it doesn’t matter which perfumes. And if you dislike something most people consider amazing, well, that’s how it is. Money saved! 🙂 February 8, 2015 at 7:44am
Annette: I agree wholeheartedly! Sometimes I read what people write about various perfumes, how they rave and love and adore, then I obtain a sample only to be horribly disappoined. And then… I just shrug my shoulders and say to myself: “It’s good to love only a select few because those few will always be special, be worn and cherished and never abandoned.” And my bank account concurs and heaves a big sigh of relief:)
Victoria, I also think Sofie’s comment might make a wonderful post and start a very interesting discussion. Will you consider it? February 8, 2015 at 8:47am
Cornelia Blimber: Hi Katy, i think you are able to have a strong, indipendent opinion, and to trust your own nose. Good equipment for a parfumista! February 8, 2015 at 9:19am
Karen: Sometimes it seems as though we all feel this pressure to like (or love) a fragrance or line when it just doesn’t do anything for you. What I’m impressed with is that you worked really hard and gave it a lot of effort! Generally, I give a sample maybe a couple of tries and then think – there are so many to love, why settle for something just because others love it? Then pass it on to someone who does love it. Gris Clair and Datura Noir made me cranky (literally), and Rubj by Vero Kern smells like bubble gum on me.
I can see trying to learn why the classics are the classics, but some may still not be worth a full bottle (I’m glad I stuck it out with Mitsouko), but for everyone, each fragrance speaks and wears differently. Body chemistry is a mysterious thing! February 8, 2015 at 9:49am
Courant: I am not a SL devotee either. I have FB Sa Majeste only, although have had lots of samples. You find great perfumes in odd, disparate lines, something to do with the style of the perfumer (Michel Almairac in my case)and it is sometimes fun to search those out. Christopher Sheldrake made Quasar for Del Pozo a long time ago and it is not one of his ultimate achievements I guess, but my husband loves it and always has to reorder a bottle February 8, 2015 at 2:23pm
Hannah: Aedes used to always send me a Serge Lutens perfume as a replacement for any unavailable requests and I hated all of them (A La Nuit, Serge Noire, Louve…) and I got so many recommendations for Chergui but I ended up hating that, as well.
You might like one of the non-fruit/spice and tobacco perfumes. The line is known for those, so those are what get recommended the most, I think. You might like the floral ones better. But even you don’t, that’s ok. I agree with all of the replies you’ve gotten, but I just thought I’d offer something a little different. I don’t think you should actively try to find *the* SL, but I think you should keep an open mind. February 8, 2015 at 5:06pm
Katy: I completely agree. I will let it be a happy accident if I find one I love. But no more active seeking, I have too many other beautiful perfumes I enjoy! February 8, 2015 at 6:41pm
Katy: I own Spicebomb and Vesace The Dreamer and Davidoff Zino,masculines all, and far more interesting tobacco centric perfumes to my nose. February 8, 2015 at 6:45pm
Katy: I meant Versace, I should never type without my glasses….. February 8, 2015 at 6:52pm
Katy: Thank you, kind ladies. I revisited all my Serge samples and came to the conclusion to pass them on. I would love to contribute them to the traveling sample box here in the USA. Perhaps arrangements could be made? Maybe some other beauties too. I have some Killians samples I could add as well……. February 8, 2015 at 9:07am
Raul: Hi everyone! I’m looking for a new chocolate and/or coffee perfume, I own Anima Dulcis and Black Vetyver Cafe, but I feel I’m in need of more diversity and I have no idea where to start. Any suggestions? February 8, 2015 at 11:35pm
Polinia: Hi Raul,
I’ve had recently a period of chocolate/coffee addiction. The most natural chocolate is of course Chocolate Greedy by Montale although it sounds a bit boring and without development on me.
Bond 9 has some interesting choco/coffee scents like So New York and more masculine New Haarlem. Il Profumo has series of chocolate and coffee perfumes but I haven’t tried them yet. Musk Maori by PG is quite nice although too sweet on me.
You may try Majda Bekkal Fusion Sacre for him – very interesting. February 9, 2015 at 5:25am
Courant: I am very interested in Musc Maori, as I live in New Zealand where the Maori people were the original settlers, having made a great ocean voyage from Polynesia a thousand years ago. I must get some and find out what a Musky Maori smells like. My relatives, you don’t say? February 11, 2015 at 12:27am
Tati: Hi Raul,
If you’re not rose-adverse, Tom Ford’s Noir de Noir has a beautiful chocolate note. Also Historie de Parfums 1969, although might be a little too sweet. February 10, 2015 at 6:15pm
Lesley: Hello everyone! I’m 18-turning-19, a noobie in the perfume world and I need help with some perfume recommendations.
I tend to like “sophisticated gourmands”–I own Prada Candy and Serge Lutens Un Bois Vanille. I also own Vera Wang’s Princess which is a bit too youthful for me, but I think I would like it a lot more if the dark chocolate accord was more intense.
Along with other “sophisticated gourmand” recommendations, I’d also like a perfume with these elements that would work well with warmer weather. February 9, 2015 at 12:20am
Victoria: Lovely choices! Have you tried Christian Dior Hypnotic Poison, Lolita Lempicka or Prada Eau de Parfum Intense (less sweet and more toasty than the original EDP)?
If you want to try something from niche lines, I recommend Parfums de Nicolai Vanille Tonka, Kiss Me Tender and SacreBleu. They’re gourmand and delicious and sophisticated. February 9, 2015 at 7:54am
angeldiva: Hi!
Back from seeing the Grammys -had a great time and wore Annick Goutal- Le Chevrefuille.
Peace
God, I love AC/DC… February 9, 2015 at 3:12am
Karen: How cool are you!!!! February 9, 2015 at 5:28am
angeldiva: Hi Karen,
Thanks for the compliment! I am in fact so cool that I can’t find a husband! LOL 🙂
Talented women need love, too…
P. February 10, 2015 at 7:21pm
Karen: Too funny! Just keep being your cool and generous self! February 11, 2015 at 5:10am
angeldiva: thanks….:) February 11, 2015 at 6:49pm
Ladidums: Can someone recommend me a fairly linear perfume that smells like Chinese joss sticks? The thin yellow kind with red handle/sticks that people use in Chinese temples all over Taiwan, Southeast Asia and maybe even in Chinatown. February 9, 2015 at 10:59am
Victoria: Monyette Paris reminds me a little of Chinese incense with a gardenia accent. Comme des Garcons Kyoto is another one I like. Or you can take your scarf and store it with joss sticks. After a couple of days, the fabric will absorb the scent, and wearing the scarf, you’ll feel as if you’re perfumed with incense. February 9, 2015 at 11:08am
Hannah: I bought my mom Shoyeido incense for Christmas (the “plum blossoms” ones because they were the cheapest at luckyscent) and they smell so comforting and nice. Maybe I will try that with my scarf. The Shoyeido might be too light, though. February 9, 2015 at 7:08pm
Hannah: I’m trying this right now. I think the Shoyeido sticks are too subtle, so I went digging in my mom’s incense drawer and I found Indian sandalwood scented ones. I’m not sure if it includes real sandalwood but it definitely has that condensed milk kind of smell. Will 7-8 days be enough time? February 28, 2015 at 2:34pm
Daniel: Hi! Since I started to look for my signature scent (and grew out of my taste for Flowerbomb) I thought I would look for a fragrance combination such that I would smell like an exotic flower, glistening with some bright accord in the middle of a dark forest. I found Florabotanica and I recently acquired Un Jardin Apres La Mousson. I think the layering works though I just started experimenting with it. I haven’t really figured out which one I should spray first or in what proportion. But now I need the “black forest” notes for my fragrance combination. Florabotanica is sort of dark, but I want something darker. I think that this scent I will layer in the form of body lotion…Any ideas? I am not a fan of incense at all, and I think something woody, mossy would be ideal, but no amber as it is too warm and light. In short: I want a scent I can cover myself in to smell like deep dark forest. Something as ‘natural’ as Terre, but Terre is to me a sun-scorched desert. A dark, lush, wet Terre? I LOVE the earth tone in it. February 10, 2015 at 6:34am
Annette: Hi, the first thing that comes to my mind is Norne from Slumberhouse (deep, wild and dangerous forest). Their Jeke might also interest you if you like a lot of smoke in your perfume. Another suggestion is Wild Hunt from CB I Hate Perfume or even their Burning Leaves (I might add: wet burning leaves). Good luck! February 10, 2015 at 7:22am
Daniel: Sounds amazing! Thank you, just reading about it has been great 😀 February 11, 2015 at 12:40am
DaveStPaul: There’s also Diptyque’s L’Ombre dans L’Eau. It’s got a damp green earthy feel, one so realistic it’s a little polarizing! February 11, 2015 at 4:26pm
Peppermoon: Norne – Slumberhouse
Olympic Orchids – Olympic Rainforest
CB I HATE PERFUME – Wild Hunt (mushroomy, dirt forest) or Black March (wet earth)
Sonoma Studios – Forest Walk February 15, 2015 at 4:36pm
Farnas: Dear Vicktoria and readers,i would like a recommendation on a perfume which is simmilar to Old Spice.I have so many niche perfumes and big brand classics ,but my favourite smell is always Old Spice,it is so home like even though i am not American ,but something in it is home..Which perfumes have simmilar atmosphere? February 10, 2015 at 11:51am
Victoria: How about Opium, even the new version? It’s a feminine fragrance, but you may safely disregard this marketing appellation and wear it. It’s the closest thing to Old Spice, I find. February 11, 2015 at 11:38am
Farnas: You really think new Opium can be worn by men?It is different from the vintage enough and veru nice, but i am afraid of wearing a woman’s perfume..i admitt it..i know it is silly..i will test it tonight and i’ll share my impressions.Thank you! February 12, 2015 at 12:49pm
Victoria: Absolutely! February 12, 2015 at 1:17pm
Farnas: Opium is great!On my skin it is smooth and soft but suits men’s skin.With Old Spice deo it will make great combination!Thank you!And,edt is nicer on my skin. February 12, 2015 at 4:05pm
Victoria: So glad to hear it! It’s an excellent perfume, even the current version. February 13, 2015 at 9:11am
Wendyr: I adore this discussion! Just came back from a perfume quest and fell head over heels with Chanel Coromandel. I cannot stop smelling my wrist. Have a sample of SL La vierge de fer, it is pretty but such a contrast with Coromandel. I adore floral with spice but still feminine. Hiram Green Shangri La was recommended and I have a decant on its way. Suggestions welcomed. February 11, 2015 at 5:28pm
Victoria: Have you tried Serge Lutens Borneo 1834? It’s a brother of Coromandel to me. February 12, 2015 at 4:04am
Wendyr: No I have not. I will get a decant. I cannot believe how much I adore Coromandel. Thank you! February 12, 2015 at 7:34am
Reg: I’m craving for a complex & dark rose right now. I always thought rose wasn’t for me, but I’m starting to realize how versatile that flower really is in perfumery. Still at the beginning here! I love Une Rose Chypree and Heeley’s Hippie Rose. The sillage should be somewhere between the two. No soliflores, no oud, patchouly yes! Any recommendations? February 11, 2015 at 6:51pm
Hannah: My favorite is Etat Libre D’Orange Eau de Protection (I’m a bit confused about the name, I don’t think it has Rossy de Palma is in the name anymore but it’s commonly referred to as that still).
With patchouli: Voleur de Roses by L`Artisan Parfumeur February 11, 2015 at 7:35pm
Aurora: A few more: Agent Provocateur is a good budget dark rose, Knowing by Estee Lauder is also a very nice dark mossy rose, La Fille de Berlin by Serge Lutens, a peppery rose very often recommended in this blog
Also if you are interested, especially if you are in Europe, Les Parfums de Rosine is all about rose scents, someone here recommended their sample set; I know their Rosa Flamenca which is very good.
Good luck in your rose travels. February 12, 2015 at 9:41am
Reg: Thanks to both of you, these sound like excellent recommendations! February 12, 2015 at 10:30am
Aurora: Forgot there is also Rose en Noir by Miller Harris, tobacco and rose. February 12, 2015 at 10:30am
Reg: Yes, that one sounds intriguing. February 14, 2015 at 11:05am
lemonruby: i’d love some indie/boutique perfume recommendations.
my all time favorite perfume is Flower by Kenzo – i like the chocolatey, ever so slightly powdery scent, with a touch of crispness.
other favorites:
Bvlgari White – lovely unisex scent, unusual crispness
Mosaic by Josh Meyer
Eau Eternelle by S Poncet
Nirvana White by Elizabeth and James February 12, 2015 at 12:16am
Victoria: I recommend Love Chloe and also Burberry Brit Rhythm for Her. Or have you tried Kenzo Amour? February 12, 2015 at 4:14am
Nora Szekely: Dear Victoria and perfume lovers,
I have 2 questions.
1. What would you wear for tango? I took classes and started to go to milongas where I dance with male friends and strangers as well. I’d like to feel sensual but not in an aggressive way. What worked for me in the past was Dita von Teese’s signature perfume and Thierry Mugler’s Alien (in small doses).
2. I fell in love with Mitsouko vintage extrait especially because of the peachy note. Can you suggest any other scent that is not too sweet but has a similar creamy fruity effect? Chypres are most welcome but I’m open to try fragrances from other note groups too. February 18, 2015 at 8:22am
Victoria: The answer to your first question is hard, because sensuality is such a subjective thing. Whatever you wear, a small dose would be enough, since the body heat will make the fragrance radiate even stronger.
I like the creamy peach note in YSL Y, Bottega Veneta and Annick Goutal Petite Cherie. They are all very different, of course. February 18, 2015 at 12:33pm
Farnas: Victoria,what do you think,can men wear Shalimar ? February 19, 2015 at 4:58pm
Hannah: In my non-Victoria opinion, there isn’t any reason why a man can’t wear Shalimar. And there are men who do. I don’t think others would have a negative opinion if you wore it–especially since a lot of men’s fragrances are pretty sweet these days. On an individual level, if it feels too feminine or not is entirely for you to decide.
I think Samsara would be great on a male friend of mine. February 19, 2015 at 5:07pm
Victoria: I agree with you 100%! February 20, 2015 at 7:46am
Farnas: Hannah,Samsara is exactly the second Guerlain feminine perfume i would wear:)))Shalimar is so beautiful and for me-The best perfume from Guerlain,becide Nahema.Your opinion really helped me,thank you!!I was thinking that if my sister can wear Dior Homme and recieve compliments all day,why can’t i think about Shalimar? February 20, 2015 at 7:53am
Farnas: What do you think about L’Occitane perfumes?Brand,generally?I don’t know much about them.Is it a quality house? February 23, 2015 at 8:48am
Victoria: I have a few reviews on this blog. Overall, the latest fragrances are nice but too expensive for what they are. February 23, 2015 at 1:25pm
Julie: Just read the 5 star review about Timbuktu
fragrance…sounds delightful! A few years ago I discovered this site and other writings. My funds are limited, 2 to three bottles a year is my limit. Someone left a number on the comments (to contact L’Artisan) so I thought I would inquire about it. It’s sold out! Anyone have a suggestion that may be
similar? Patchouli Patch sounds nice too, I have some patchouli scented
goat milk soap that I just used today & adore. My birthday was last Thursday and was thinking about something different. Very busy
shoveling snow these days in the Northeast(USA) just to get out for
the necessities. I realize there are thousands of scents I will probably never be able to try but I will enjoy the journey while I can
🙂 Thank you so very much for your extraordinary replies about scent &
have a wonderful day! XO Julie February 20, 2015 at 2:01pm
Victoria: Have you tried any of the perfumes from Comme des Garcons incense series or even Comme des Garcons Palisander. They’re not identical to Timbuktu, but they have this dry woody note that makes Timbuktu so distinctive. I also recommend Eau d’Italie Sienne l’Hiver, also a similar woody note there. February 21, 2015 at 9:04am
Julie: No I haven’t Victoria.
I appreciate your suggestions …Eau d’Italie Sienne l’Hiver sounds very interesting, thank you. 🙂 February 22, 2015 at 1:53pm
Victoria: It’s like a mix of wood shavings, roasted chestnuts, cool smoke and wet earth. Definitely sample before buying since it might be an acquired taste. February 22, 2015 at 5:02pm
Julie: Good idea Victoria. I may order some samples! I’ve been eating a lot of red grapefruit lately & love the smell. Might visit Sephora next week, Aqua Allegoria Pamplelune is another scent I have always wanted to try. Decisions, decisions!! 🙂 February 23, 2015 at 12:38pm
Hannah: Julie, another dry wood and incense fragrance is Fille en Aiguilles by Serge Lutens.
Luckyscent has CDG Incense Jaisalmer under “If you like Timbuktu you may also like…”, and that is also dry wood, incense, spices. It’s nice but it gets forgotten a lot because most people prefer others in the incense series (my favorites are Zagorsk and Ouarzazate).
Another with green mango is Un jardin sur le Nil by Hermes. I don’t like this, but many other people do.
You might want to look into Bertrand Duchaufour’s other fragrances in general. However, they are often expensive. The ones he did for Eau d’Italie aren’t that bad price-wise. Victoria mentioned Sienne l’Hiver, which I haven’t gotten the chance to try but I do like Bois d’Ombrie and Jardin du Poete.
I’ve been shoveling too. Nobody else shoveled though, and I have to walk to work so that was not fun. I shoveled in front of my house, my elderly neighbor’s house and the house beside his on the other side because no one lives there. I’m very tired and in pain now ;o; February 22, 2015 at 8:50pm
Julie: Thank you Hannah! Funny you should mention Serge Lutens, I had been thinking about that one. 🙂 My last purchase was in November (Cedre) and I am very happy with that. Thank you for your input. I really enjoy trying something new. Take care, hopefully we’ll see some warmer days before too long. February 23, 2015 at 8:33am
Emily: Hi lovely fragrance friends! I was deep into my perfume journey last year, including an amazing trip to Paris last April where I smelled as much as I could possibly smell. I got super busy with work so stopped sampling and exploring and reading – was happily wearing my existing collection. I visited Scent Bar in LA last week and my passion was renewed! I wanted to ask for your help with two things:
Given a list of my favorite perfumes, what sort of scent profile would you say I have? Is it too all over the map or are there themes? I’m not able to discern any!
And, again given the list of ones I love – anything that I should try that I haven’t? 🙂
Here are my favorites: Chanel Bois des Iles, Ormonde Jayne Woman (I love her whole line, really!), Parfums du Nicolai Juste un Reve, SL Fourreau Noir, Jeux de Peau, Byredo Bal d’Afrique, Neela Vermiere Ashoka and Bombay Bling, Amouage Ubar and Honor Woman, Lancome La Vie Est Belle, Guerlain Mitsouko, L’Artisan Timbuktu and Premier Figuier, Yosh Ginger Ciao, Creed Virgin Island Water.
In fun news I got the new Cult Perfumes book, and Roja Dove’s The Essence of Perfume – so much fun!
Thanks lovelies! February 23, 2015 at 1:15am
Victoria: You have eclectic tastes, and most of your favorites are in the woody oriental and woody realm. It makes it fun to recommend you something. For instance, woods. Have you tried Serge Lutens Cedre or Diptyque Tam Dao? One is a honeyed cedar and the other one is sandalwood mixed with cedar. February 23, 2015 at 1:20pm
Emily: I haven’t tried the SL! I think I have tried Tam Dao, but maybe just on a tester strip, and not as a decant. Or I’m thinking I’ve tried it because I’ve seen the name so many times! I’ll add them both to my sample wishlist 🙂 February 23, 2015 at 2:24pm
Rachel: Dear Victoria;
I have several perfumes that I never wear – for one reason or another, I did not end up enjoying them on myself as I thought I would. I am wondering if this would be an appropriate question for this thread in the future: I list the perfumes and ask people for suggestions on how they might be combined to create a new perfume that I might wear. I would tell them the direction I would like to go in with the end result. What do you think? Thank you! March 15, 2015 at 5:56pm
Victoria: Of course! Or you can do in our new March thread which is coming up. March 16, 2015 at 10:03am
alsa: I need a perfume for my signature scent.. I want people recognize the smell.
I was thinking about see by chloe (tried it in store) and I really fell for it.. its clean n crisp n soft at the same time. I’m just afraid im paying dollars n ppl dont smell it on me. So longetivity n sillage are my main concerns
Im also interested in ysl manifesto, narciso rodriguez narciso, and the last ones i tried: cartier baise vole and dior j’adore (love this two!)
we dont have ysl manifesto n narciso here in stock so if you recommend me between the bunch, i’ll have to blind buy.
so plZz help us which one is the most one of a kind, long wearing with great sillage. I want to be seductive, lol. Maybe any othee perfumes that in ur opinion pretty? March 16, 2015 at 10:38am
Yaseen: Hey..
I live in Chennai, India.
Am looking for really dark, maybe chocolaty or oudish fragrance thats very masculine and rich..
Budget of <90 usd..
Pls note, weather here is hot and humid almost throughout the year..
My all time favorite scent is Encre Noire from Lalique..
Thanks October 6, 2015 at 6:05am
Victoria: Yaseen, I’d recommend dry woody fragrances. Those, even darker varieties, wear so much better than anything too sweet. Have you tried Yves Saint Laurent M7? October 6, 2015 at 10:54am