Recommend Me a Perfume : May

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 used this column for a recommendation before, we would love to hear how your search went and what you’ve discovered. Bois de Jasmin will be back to its regular schedule on June 1st. Hope that my US readers are enjoying their Memorial Day break.

lilacs

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, lilacs

Subscribe

287 Comments

  • Zunni: I’d love a recommendation for a rose perfume. Something with a woody base? Sandalwood or cedar, perhaps?
    And/or a jasmine, also with a woody base?
    As for price – mid-range?
    Thank you in advance! May 25, 2015 at 7:32am Reply

    • Michaela: I don’t know if you have already seen these articles on rose and jasmin on BdJ:
      https://boisdejasmin.com/2006/01/from_white_to_r.html;
      https://boisdejasmin.com/2005/05/jasmine-perfume-note-and-material.html;
      https://boisdejasmin.com/2014/02/best-jasmine-perfumes.html.

      A jasmine I absolutely love on my skin, and very reasonably priced, is Van Cleef’s and Arpels First in EdP. (https://boisdejasmin.com/2006/01/fragrance_revie_12.html)
      For a rose, I chose Rochas Tocade EdT, sweet and feminine, not expensive at all. My favorite summer rose would be Stella McCartney Stella, sparkling and sheer (but I don’t have a bottle yet). May 25, 2015 at 8:19am Reply

      • Sandra: I love First! Second that suggestion May 25, 2015 at 4:24pm Reply

    • Becky: Have you tried Marni? It’s a bright spicy, woody rose. May 25, 2015 at 8:49am Reply

      • Claire: I love Marni, it’s modern, spicy rose fragrance, and while it is woody it doesn’t veer too masculine, even on the dry down. For me it smells bright, and energetic, but feminine. I regret not purchasing a full bottle, because it now seems nearly impossible to find in the U.S. except on eBay. Does anyone know why? May 26, 2015 at 3:05am Reply

      • Judy: I love Marni, too. There are lots of bottles available on Amazon… not sure about the authenticity…. June 2, 2015 at 3:04pm Reply

    • Anne: I would love to know this too!!! My favourite rose fragrance is Rose 31 by Le Labo…. unfortunately it is far too expensive for me. But it definitely has that Rose/ woody base I adore. So I am looking forward to people replying to this thread. In fact I think Prada should do an infusion de Rose in the same when Infusion D iris is crafted. It would be devine… May 25, 2015 at 9:29am Reply

    • Nemo: I am not sure if this counts as midrange, but Santal Majuscule is a gorgeous rose and sandalwood perfume. It was originally recommended to me as a sandalwood perfume (and then had a bit much rose than I was looking for), but I loved it anyway. Also, I would recommend Agent Provocateur which perhaps has the mood you are looking for, without precisely being able to pin down the woody notes. May 25, 2015 at 9:31am Reply

      • Filomena813: I agree with most of these suggestions but would like to add Desert Rose by Jeffrey Dame…very reasonably priced and it smells great! May 25, 2015 at 11:02am Reply

        • Petunia: Desert Rose is nice! I just received a sample of it an found it very pretty. May 25, 2015 at 6:54pm Reply

      • Danaki: I second Agent Provocateur edp.
        It all depends on how dark you want to take it. Another favourite, and priced in the middle, is Narciso Rodriguez edp – that’s the pink bottle! It is quite a sensual musky rose, but woody too. That’s if you like dark, woody musks.

        On the lighter side, Marni Rose is another option. All these should have small bottles that are affordable. Good luck. May 25, 2015 at 11:33am Reply

    • Annikky: I like woody (and dark) roses, but my favourites tend to be expensive: Mohur, Lyric, Cafe Rose… If you can afford it, I second Nemo’s Santal Majuscule. And I seem to recall that Les Parfums de Rosine Rose Kashmirie was a nice rose on a woody base.

      For a jasmine: Songes? May 25, 2015 at 10:39am Reply

      • Annikky: And Chanel Egoiste is worth checking out as well, possibly not rosy enough, but I love it. May 25, 2015 at 10:42am Reply

    • Bela: I have a love-hate relationship with rose, but my favourite rose perfume (and the one I’m currently wearing) is Serge Lutens La fille de Berlin. It’s a spicy, jammy, yummy rose. Absolutely delicious. May 25, 2015 at 12:05pm Reply

    • Aurora: I second Rosine and I believe their Majalis has both sandalwood and cedar. Why not get their sampler, it’s not expensive and you might find your ideal rose in one of the 15 samples.

      For a mid-range option I would add Knowing by Estee Lauder, a very good mossy rose.

      Good luck in your quest. May 25, 2015 at 12:13pm Reply

      • Aurora: Forgot to say, you can order the Parfums de Rosine sampler directly from their site (no affiliation) I think they ship anywhere. May 25, 2015 at 12:33pm Reply

      • Joy: Knowing is a wonderful,chypre rose. I like to put a couple of spritzes in my hair conditioner. My hair smells fabulous all day.
        I can’t put this on before I go to bed, though. For some reason, I can’t sleep well, and I do not need any more reasons for that! May 25, 2015 at 8:58pm Reply

        • Michaela: I love this, too. It’s so distinctive. Not for bed time, though 🙂 May 26, 2015 at 6:11am Reply

        • Hamamelis: So interesting, because last night I put Knowing on, after a long time (I did not read this post)! And I loved it, and slept like a log…but I was exhausted from an intensive dog training weekend, even my hot flashes did not wake my up 😉 May 26, 2015 at 6:21am Reply

          • marini: I also wear Knowing almost exclusively at night, AND have suddenly suffered from dreaded night sweats. SO, tonight I will be sure to try some Knowing and see if it helps. I also bought those crazy silky sheets for this, called Sheex. I think they help, too. I just want a room that’s 56 degrees, all the time… May 27, 2015 at 8:27pm Reply

            • Hamamelis: Marini, Thank you so much for the Sheex tip! Unfortunately not yet available in Europe, and they don’t ship, but I will keep a good eye on their expansion. Do you use sheets or a duvet cover?
              Hope Knowing helps too! May 28, 2015 at 5:18am Reply

          • Michaela: Hi Hamamelis,

            Congratulations for the great dog training time and for Knowing at bed time:)

            Out of topic but… I have the feeling we can help each other, too, chatting a bit more about dogs. If you think so, too, figure out my address and contact me: the name you see here dot smina at gmail dot com. May 28, 2015 at 5:05am Reply

            • Hamamelis: We’ll do! May 28, 2015 at 5:18am Reply

            • Hamamelis: I sent you a mail, as I am using an email address that sometimes bounces, with an m and
              an s and an n, you may want to check your spambox. May 28, 2015 at 10:32am Reply

              • Michaela: The e-mail arrived OK, I replied. 🙂 June 2, 2015 at 5:17am Reply

    • Austenfan: Austenfan: I second the Rosine sampler. It’s a good and reasonably priced line.
      A Rose with a woody or rather wood and incense base is Paestum Rose by Eau d’Italie. It’s not dirt cheap but there are loads of more expensive options.
      A rose with a patchouli and vetiver and musk base is Divine’s lovely L’Inspiratrice. I don’t know where you are but they sell a very nice and very affordable sample set.
      They recently added another very pretty rose to their line Spirituelle. Also very much worth a sniff.
      Etat Libre d’Orange has a wonderful dramatic and dark rose in their Eau de Protection Rossy de Palma.

      About jasmines; I wholeheartedly second VCA First. I wish La Haie Fleurie were still in production it’s another great rendition of the flower. May 25, 2015 at 1:03pm Reply May 25, 2015 at 1:04pm Reply

    • Figuier: Etat Librar d’Orange, Rossy de Palma Eau de Protection is a great dark rose, not too expensive and above all not too serious – there’s a candied edge to the rose that makes it somehow lighthearted despite the leather and wood base. May 25, 2015 at 2:01pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: If you are o.k. with aldehydes, you could try Chanel 5 Eau premiere, then you have rose, jasmine and sandalwood all in one perfume. Rose soliflores usually turn sour on me, but the cheap Moment de Bonheur (Yves Rocher) by Annick Menardo has a lovely Rosa Centifolia note, and cedar in the base. May 25, 2015 at 2:11pm Reply

    • Tamina: I think it does not get much better than Neela Vermeire Mohur for rose-sandalwood combos, which is far from mid-range. But you can look into buying a decant of it. One spray would be enough for a day! May 25, 2015 at 3:12pm Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: Dark rose, balsamic: Une Rose, Malle
        Dark rose, mossy: Knowing, Lauder

        Not really roseperfumes, but hiding a beautiful dark rose: Mille, Patou and Rive Gauche, Ysl

        To my big surprise, I liked Rose Explosion, Victor & Rolf
        My favorite cheap (but nice) rose: Cabaret, Grès
        Jasmine: thirting First and adding Joy (Patou)
        There is a beautiful jasmine in J’Adore l’Absolu (maybe discontinued) May 25, 2015 at 4:38pm Reply

        • Cornelia Blimber: How could I forget my beloved Nahema! Dark rose, but not woody, rather fruity May 25, 2015 at 5:04pm Reply

    • AnnieA: Smell Bent Bollywood or Bust is a rose-sandalwood, and quite reasonable. Ugly bottle, alas. May 25, 2015 at 4:45pm Reply

      • Julie F: Just wore Bollywood or Bust to bed last night! I don’t usually like rose scents, but that one really grabbed me – of course: sandalwood. Do you get an almost “beery” note at the start? May 25, 2015 at 4:57pm Reply

        • AnnieA: Why, I’ve never put it in such terms, but I believe I do smell something hoppy… May 25, 2015 at 5:45pm Reply

          • spe: Not engaged or getting married yet, but please list your favorite bridal – type soliflore. Thank you! May 26, 2015 at 8:59am Reply

    • briony hey: There are lots of lovely roses around. Have you tried any of Andy Tauer’s? I love Une Rose Chypree. That’s on my to-buy list. Another really gorgeous rose is Lyric (Amouage). It’s massively expensive but they do small bottles in gift sets. If you like girly roses there’s Drole de Rose. That one’s really pretty. There’s Nahema and Estee Lauder’s Knowing too. They’re quite dark but beautiful. May 26, 2015 at 10:54am Reply

    • Elisa P: Sonoma Scent Studio Champagne de Bois is a sandalwood/jasmine. Slightly spicy and long lasting. Also reasonably priced. I really enjoy this perfume and on warmer days the jasmine is more pronounced. May 31, 2015 at 11:35am Reply

  • lauran: Hi!
    I would like a recommendation for a day scent for this summer. I want something to last, to be crisp, with sillage, but the lasting power is the most important. I do not want something very commonplace like Versense or Light Blue, but something more intriguing, but not from the niche lines.
    I prefere Allure Sensual’s freshness, but even the edt seems to be not for summer. In spring Shiseido Zen, Estee Intuition are my favorite scents, in winter I use mostly Dior Addict both old and new.
    I thought about Issey Miyake L’eau d’Issey, Chanel Chance Eau Fraiche, but I am not sure at all.
    Thank you! May 25, 2015 at 8:37am Reply

    • Celeste Church: How about Chanel 19 EDP? Or Balmain Ivoire? I really love Prada Infusion d’iris in summer and spring. It holds up well in hot, humid weather, and the price is very reasonable (as is the Ivoire).And since you love Addict, why not a vanilla like Yves Saint Laurent Cinema? It’s got a lovely, transparent feel to it, but it’s definitely there for all to enjoy. And one last sunny spring day scent that I adore in warm weather: Jean Patou Sublime. Once you get past the almost harsh opening it really lives up to it’s name! It’s shimmering and radiant like the sun. May 25, 2015 at 11:56am Reply

    • Aurora: The 2 options you list are very nice, but it’s true that there are so many different eaux. Also, the Escale series by Dior are crisp and last quite well, I like Portofino, a longer lasting cologne, as well as the Jardins series by Hermes, my favorite is Sur Le Nil with its green mango note on a woody base, if you like figue Un Jardin en Mediterranee is very nice too, Un Jardin Apres La Mousson is original but not for everybody

      Other classical eaux to look for: O de Lancome and its flankers, I especially enjoy O de L’Orangerie with its bitter orange, Eau de Rochas is a wonderful classic mineral, woody, citrus eau, quite long lasting, Ninfeo Mio by Annick Goutal again with figue is long lasting, some classic eaux de cologne: Chanel, Thierry Mugler, Patou (more expensive), Eau Fraiche Dior, Eau d’Orange Verte Hermes, or Hermes Eau des Merveilles which is super long lasting.

      Hope you will find your perfect summer scent. May 25, 2015 at 12:47pm Reply

      • Aurora: And I was forgetting Bulgari, with its Eaux Parfumees: Au The Vert, Au The Rouge, Au The Blanc and if you’re budget conscious, Victoria has recommended Eau de Gaga in the same vein as The Vert. May 25, 2015 at 12:52pm Reply

    • Figuier: You might like to try the lighter Hermes scents, either their range of Eaux range or the Jardins series. The latter especially have some great crisp-but-longlasting options. May 25, 2015 at 2:03pm Reply

      • Figuier: Sorry for duplicating, I hadn’t seen Austefan’s recommendations – seconding her! May 25, 2015 at 2:11pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: Second all wonderful recommendations, and only add Cristalle, which is crisp, lovely sillage and longlasting on me. May 25, 2015 at 2:14pm Reply

      • kayliz: Here’s another vote for Cristalle: crisp, good sillage, and longlasting on me too. May 25, 2015 at 4:26pm Reply

        • Julie Ellis: Cristalle is a lovely scent and I love it for both summer and fall. May 25, 2015 at 4:50pm Reply

    • Emma: Chanel Gardenia is a great summer fragrance but for something crisp with more sillage and longevity, Serge Lutens La Vierge de Fer is truly a beautiful white floral, great for hot and humid days. At night, wear Piguet Fracas. May 25, 2015 at 2:19pm Reply

    • PrincessTonk: White Linen (or any flankers) is the meaning of crisp AND sillage. Try it!! May 25, 2015 at 3:24pm Reply

    • Michaela: Great summer suggestions! I would add Bottega Venetta Knot. It lasts really well, the sillage is excellent and it feels cooling, elegant and friendly. Very versatile, also. May 26, 2015 at 3:38am Reply

    • lauran: Dear all, thanks for these lovely recommendations.
      I was also thinking about Chanel no. 19, Cristalle or even Silences, I tested them but they seem to me very harsh, metallic. I think Infusion d’Iris will be chosen or The Vert. Knot seems also very interesting, I will give it a try and sample it. Thanks. May 26, 2015 at 5:25am Reply

    • briony hey: What about Ormonde Jayne Tiare? I find that quite similar to Cristalle. Or then there’s Estee Lauder’s Tuberose Gardenia. That’s a lovely warm weather fragrance. Another lovely cutrussy one is Annick Goutal’s Eau du Ciel. May 26, 2015 at 10:44am Reply

      • briony hey: Other summery ones would be the Atelier Cologne range. They’re all pretty gorgeous. May 26, 2015 at 10:47am Reply

    • limegreen: Issey Miyake lasts and is pretty. Have you tried Cristalle eau verte? Very crisp and lasts on me. Great for warm weather. May 27, 2015 at 7:14am Reply

  • Polly: To Zunnii: I love Fille de Berlin as a dark rose.
    Q: I am wondering about people’s preferences for perfume when the weather is warm summer rain vs cold spring rain. I don’t like powdery scents or perfumes with crazy projections. But otherwise white flowers, gourmands, woods, lighter chypres, orientalis are all fair game. I own quite a few SL’s, Jo Malones, Olfactive, Neela Vermiere and many many more that are are just one from the one brand/perfumer eg. Shanghai Lily, Bulgarian The blanc…. So I stand and stare and can’t choose…. May 25, 2015 at 8:56am Reply

    • Aurora: That a very good question, Polly! I think in a warm summer rain I would enjoy something intensely green like Silences by Jacomo. I’m sure other people will have different suggestions. May 25, 2015 at 2:56pm Reply

      • rainboweyes: Second the idea of intensely green scents – Silences, as Aurora already mentioned, but also Hermessence Paprika Brasil, Vero Profumo Mito (voile d’extrait), Chanel 28 La Pausa or Hermes Hiris. May 25, 2015 at 4:13pm Reply

    • Michaela: I think Silences works very well in almost any rain 🙂 Other perfumes I would like very much under a warm summer shower are YSL Y and Bulgari’s Eau Parfumee au The Vert. Maybe The Rouge as well (I don’t know The Blanc). May 26, 2015 at 6:21am Reply

  • Therése: I’d like to say thanks for the recommendations I’ve received previous months! One was Chanel Beige, now one of my favourites. The truly stellar recommendation was to buy the Frederic Malle body butters instead of the perfumes (to make them somewhat more wearable for everyday and in office invironments). I bought the Portrait of a Lady Body butter and I adore it. I get so many compliments it’s ridiculous 🙂 I don’t rememeber who gave me these recommendations, but I say thank you anyway! May 25, 2015 at 9:11am Reply

    • limegreen: Hi Therese! Aren’t the Malle body butters amazing? Victoria has praised them, as several of us on BdJ have as well. I especially love Dans tes Bras bb and the Carnal Flower bb is not as overwhelming for going to work. My workplace is not fragrance free but I don’t want to overdo it either!
      I think Portrait of a Lady is more mellow in the bb, too, though I’ve only tried a sample. You must still get projection from it if you are getting compliments! 🙂 May 30, 2015 at 10:16am Reply

      • Therése: Hi Limegreen! Yes, the body butters are truly amazing. And I do get a lot of projektion! last week a colleague commented that when she stepped in to the entrance of our small office building she knew I had already arrived because she could smell my perfume in the air 🙂 June 2, 2015 at 3:02am Reply

        • limegreen: 🙂 Those compliments are the best! June 2, 2015 at 10:02am Reply

  • Julie Ellis: I’d love a recommendation for a summer scent with a light woody base and maybe some lily of the valley also.
    Thanks. May 25, 2015 at 9:12am Reply

    • Aurora: Perhaps Annick Goutal is worth exploring – I believe there is a muguet (lily-of-the-valley in French), also Diorissimo by Dior is all about that flower too. May 25, 2015 at 2:45pm Reply

      • briony hey: My favourite woody perfume is Un Parfum des Sens et Bois from the Different Company. Loads of people love Femininite du Bois although I’ve never managed to click with that one. May 26, 2015 at 11:01am Reply

    • Austenfan: Début Delrae and Odalisque Parfums de Nicolaï. May 25, 2015 at 3:47pm Reply

    • Jessicarus: Yosh Sottile is a lovely, light rose and lily of the valley blend that you might like to try. I don’t know that it has a woody base at all though. May 25, 2015 at 10:27pm Reply

  • Anne: I really love the oil Dyptique Voile de Satin scent. I am not sure what is inside, but I think its Ylang Ylang, possibly rose, and definitely some vanilla at the finish. Has anyone else tried it? I love it because it s fine, feminine, but yet has some warmth to it (guess that s the vanilla note) and it s not sweet ( it smells gorgeous on my husband!). I am looking for this is a perfume basically. And I can t find anything similar. Maybe someone will know? Thank you in advance. Anne May 25, 2015 at 9:26am Reply

    • Aurora: Hello Anne: I’m not familiar with that oil, but perhaps if one contacts Diptyque they could let you know the notes and maybe even recommend a similar scent from their range? It might be worth a shot. May 25, 2015 at 2:48pm Reply

      • Anne Sheffield: I tried to contact them…. But they did not replied to me 🙁 May 25, 2015 at 2:55pm Reply

        • Aurora: Oh, so disappointing. I’m sorry. May 25, 2015 at 2:58pm Reply

    • George: Why don’t you email or phone luckyscent? They stock it so should be able to recommend an actual fragrance that might be similar. May 25, 2015 at 5:58pm Reply

      • Anne Sheffield: Will do! Thanks! May 26, 2015 at 1:44am Reply

    • limegreen: Diptyque eau moheli is ylang jasmine, may be too sweet for you. I have tried the oil and it’s a light fragrance so maybe you would like Le labo ylang cannot remember the number . May 27, 2015 at 7:25am Reply

    • sunnlitt: Also, Diptyque has stand-alone boutiques. I have ordered a candle from the one in Beverly Hills. They were very nice on the phone and the item arrived really quickly. I would think that they would be the most knowledgeable. May 28, 2015 at 12:37am Reply

  • Sylvia: Help? I’m in love with Terracotta Le Perfume- Guerlain’s limited edition release from last year. Does anyone know of something like it? It’s like Estee’s bronze goddess but more floral and less herbal. It’s got the most amazing jasmine gardenia coconut vibe… Subtle but doesn’t disappear. Thanks in advance for any direction. May 25, 2015 at 9:40am Reply

    • Caroline: Actually have found a scent that’s similar to Terracotta (but a lot more expensive, alas). It’s called Fleur09 by Maria Christofilis, Aedes and Beautyhabit carry it & offer samples by mail. May 25, 2015 at 10:03am Reply

    • Sandra: Terracotta was being sold at Bergdorfs May 25, 2015 at 10:23am Reply

      • Sylvia: Thank you! I will look there :)) May 26, 2015 at 7:08pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: You could try YR Monoi Eau des Vahines, lots of tiare and coconut. They also have all kinds of body products, oil etc. Or Songes, for tiare and jasmine without the coconut but with vanilla? May 25, 2015 at 2:20pm Reply

    • PrincessTonk: I ordered Terracotta from Nordstrom the other day to have a backup. Don’t know if you are in US. Free Shipping! May 25, 2015 at 3:30pm Reply

      • PrincessTonk: Just saw Nordstrom is now sold out but Bloomingdales still shows it. If Terracotta is what you want, you will find it. Depends upon where you live. May 25, 2015 at 4:51pm Reply

    • Natalia: Collection Extraordinaire California Reverie by Van Cleef & Arpels is kind of close to Terracotta. Another beautiful one is Datura Noir by Serge Lutans. I think you might also like Songes by Goutal. I would recommend to try them anyway, I believe these beautiful parfumes have their own characters but share some tender and lush exotic sweetness with Terracotta. May 28, 2015 at 4:46pm Reply

  • Figuier: Hi Sylvia, I couldn’t tell from your e-mail but this is if you would prefer another bottle of Terracotta if it were available, rather than being in search of an alternative.

    I’m not sure where you live, but in the UK they’ve re-released Terracotta for summer 2015; it’s available on http://www.escentual.com, for instance, which also has 25%rrp on all stock until tomorrow (not affiliated). I haven’t checked but I’ve have thought it’ll be available other places also. May 25, 2015 at 10:13am Reply

    • Cath: Terracotta is out of stock right now. Also, Guerlain Perfumes can not be sent outside the EU. I’ve had problems with Escentual before, there are some French brands that they couldn’t ship to me. What a pity.

      As a replacement, have you tried Guerlain AA Lys Soleia? May 25, 2015 at 11:45am Reply

  • Raquel: Beautiful picture. As I posted on Dry Oils subject I just bought Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse and I love it. So many nice comments I had to try it. May 25, 2015 at 10:40am Reply

  • Kyle: Hi Victoria,

    My favourite fragrances currently are Terre d’Hermes (Parfum) and Tom Ford Grey Vetiver (EDP).

    I struggle to find other fragrances which give me as much joy, what are your thoughts/recommendations? May 25, 2015 at 11:00am Reply

    • Aurora: Kyle: Have you explored the Guerlains? Habit Rouge and Mouchoir de Monsieur are favorite of mine. Also, Pour Un Homme by Caron, a beautiful lavender in case you like this note, is loved on this blog.

      But no doubt Victoria would be able to give you more recommendations.

      Good luck and have fun experimenting. May 25, 2015 at 3:06pm Reply

      • Kyle: Thank you Aurora! I have tried both Guerlain Vetiver and Habit Rouge. Vetiver reminds me of childhood visits to the dentist for some reason, while the complexity of HR is completely lost on me – all I end up smelling on my skin is sandalwood. I’m definitely keen to try the two other suggestions, will keep an eye out on my next visit to the fragrance counter! May 27, 2015 at 1:56pm Reply

        • limegreen: I don’t think Caron Pour Un Homme is easily found in dept stores anymore, I may be wrong. Many are available at discounters online. May 30, 2015 at 10:33am Reply

    • Tomate Farcie: Bvlgari Black May 25, 2015 at 6:06pm Reply

    • Sofie: Hi Kyle, what other scents have you tried that you didn’t like? It might help in narrowing things down.
      Have you tried other vetivers? My favourite is Sycomore, Chanel, probably a bit sweeter than the two you mentioned.
      I tried Bulgari Men in Black a couple of times, it’s more about spices than vetiver, but it’s character reminds me of Terre D’Hermes: elegant, quietly confidant, warm.
      Aurora’s suggestions are great too. May 26, 2015 at 9:39am Reply

      • Kyle: I’ve tried both the Guerlain and Dior Vetivers, and didn’t love either. The Dior didn’t give me great sillage or longevity I’m afraid. Funny you mention Sycomore, I tried it at a Chanel counter once but was worried that the floral/aldehyde notes were a bit feminine for me (but maybe that’s my own perception) – I’ll definitely try it again and ask my friends for their opinion! May 27, 2015 at 2:01pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: Maybe Frederic Malle’s Vetiver Extraordinaire? It has that Terre d’Hermes mineral/watery sense. May 26, 2015 at 9:58am Reply

      • Kyle: We don’t have Frederic Malle fragrances in South Africa, but the reviews I’ve read sound exactly like something I’d enjoy! May 27, 2015 at 2:03pm Reply

        • Hamamelis: Maybe then another out of the box suggestion: Annick Goutal Sables. I had the good fortune to visit your beautiful country, and Sables to my nose smells like the very early morning bush in SA winter…But it is very different than Terre or Vetiver, though it has this sandy quality. Hope you have access to Annick Goutal in SA. May 28, 2015 at 5:22am Reply

        • George: http://olfactoriastravels.com/2015/03/25/perfume-shopping-in-south-africa-the-guide-to-not-so-hidden-beauty/

          Is this article any use to you? (Frederic Malle are stocked at Luminance in Johannesberg- don’t know how close you are?)

          I think you are fully vetivered up by the sound of it. (Guerlain Vetiver also reminds me of antiseptic- Savlon cream in my case). Sycomore is smokey masculine vetiver with a streak of sweetness just to more centre it to my nose, so if you don’t want to wear a feminine scent, it really shouldn’t be a problem.

          I think you might like Guerlain Colognes, Infusion D’Iris and other in the Prada range, Dior Homme and Egoiste (the original) and Pour Monsieur by Chanel. Plus maybe Declarations by Cartier, Voyage by Hermes. May 28, 2015 at 11:26am Reply

        • limegreen: If George’s recommendation takes you to a Malle counter, perhaps give a sniff to French Lover (also called Bois d’Orage here in the US, not sure what name it has in SA). It has the smokiness of Grey Vetiver from angelica set against other woody notes, really a gorgeous and long-lasting fragrance, with leanings toward what is conventionally “masculine.”
          Malle’s Bigarade Concentree (by Ellena) is nice but I think Ellena’s Terre d’Hermes is superior, but that’s my opinion, especially since BC is very fleeting.
          Something different to try would be Malle Eau de Magnolia — it has a lovely citrusy opening, and is not floral in a conventional “feminine” way that you may think, it’s not sweet overly floral despite magnolia in the name. It’s a chypre, really refreshing and long-lasting in the way that I think Grey Vetiver is refreshing. May 30, 2015 at 10:30am Reply

    • limegreen: I love grey vetiver with the citrus and smoky vetiver. It looks like you like a citrus opening. Have you tried Acqua di Parma colonia, basically the original, or AdP Assoluta? These share some overlap with your 2 favorites.
      Don’t know your price range but the 2 newer Tom Fords are worth a sniff , Cozza mediterranea (sp?)and Mandarino amalfi. May 27, 2015 at 7:34am Reply

      • Kyle: Thank you for your suggestions 🙂 The AdP has limited stockists in South Africa, but will definitely keep an eye out for it in perfume specialty stores. My favourite in the TF Private Blend is Neroli Portofino – the citrus opening is heavenly! May 27, 2015 at 2:08pm Reply

        • limegreen: AdP Colonia is a real classic, it won’t be dental cleaning at all. It is citrus with lavender and a touch of rosemary but a wonderful overall fragrance that does not smell like any of those notes. It is longer lasting than Neroli Portofino on my skin.
          Since you love Tom Ford, maybe you can give Rive d’Ambre a sniff — the citrus opening is divine, and the dry down is a soft whisper of amber. Lasts a long time but is soft silage. May 29, 2015 at 10:10am Reply

          • limegreen: What I meant is AdP does not smell like just bergamot or lavender or rosemary! And Rive d’Ambre is a good day scent, especially for an environment such as a work environment, because the projection is soft. There is a touch of soft mint in between the citrus opening and the amber. The citrus opening is very different than NP, kind of sparkles, I think it’s the best part of the fragrance, and unlike a lot of citrus openings, this one lasts a couple of hours on my skin, and then I catch whiffs of it throughout the day. May 29, 2015 at 10:22am Reply

  • Tamina: Hi everyone, I would love some suggestions about how to replace my beloved pre-reformulation Apres L’Ondee EdT. I finally used up my last drop (after all, perfume is meant to be used!… I kept telling myself) and while I have a bottle of the newer EdT, it doesn’t have the anisic spicy kick that I loved in the older version. Could anyone recommend me a nice, spicy floral with heliotropin? May 25, 2015 at 11:09am Reply

    • Danaki: Oh! tough one. commiserations on your empty Apres l’Ondee. I personally keep near me, and rotate, Frederic Malle L’Eau d’Hiver (if you don’t care for violet), the current version of Apres l’Ondee and vintage L’Heure Bleue.

      This doesn’t replace anything, mind.

      The other day, quite by chance, I discovered an interesting anise note in Olfactive Studio Lumiere Blanche. It was from a sample of the stuff that I was uninterested in and wanted to finish.

      I guess these days, I’ll take what I can get. May 25, 2015 at 11:54am Reply

      • Tamina: Thank you Danaki. 🙂 Actually, I like vintage l’Heure Bleue even more than vintage Apres l’Ondee, but AlO is better for the current weather! And I have some vintage l’HB and l’Eau d’Hiver, both of which are wonderful. Maybe I will try layering current AlO EdT with vintage l’HB to get more of the spicy kick.

        And I will try Lumiere Blanche, I have been meaning to sample it anyway. Thanks for the suggestion. May 25, 2015 at 3:11pm Reply

    • Aurora: Tamina: First I’m sorry for your experience with reformulation, this heartbreak, alas, happens too often.

      You mention an anisic kick. Have a look here on the blog directory under the by note option at anis-liquorice. You probably already investigated the other Guerlains but a newish one, Shalimar Souffle de Parfum is not like the regular Shalimar at all: it’s got plenty of anis on a musk base.

      I hope you find a new scent to fall in love with. May 25, 2015 at 3:19pm Reply

      • kayliz: Mandragore Pourpre might be an idea. It’s my staple for fresh and spicy. Anise and heliotrope are both listed, but I find it closer in the idea of the thing than in actual scent to Apres l’Ondee, if that makes sense. May 25, 2015 at 4:32pm Reply

        • Tamina: I am a huge fan of spicy florals, Lys Mediterranee is my second favorite perfume 🙂 This sounds like something I would enjoy very much. Thank you for recommending it to me. May 25, 2015 at 4:50pm Reply

      • kayliz: Mandragore Pourpre might be an idea. It’s my staple for fresh and spicy. Anise and heliotrope are both listed, but I find the general idea of the thing closer to Apres l’Ondee than the actual scent, if that makes sense. May 25, 2015 at 4:33pm Reply

      • Tamina: Thank you so much for the recommendation! I have tried very few of the newer Guerlains, and not this version of Shalimar – I am not a big fan of the original Shalimar, I found it a bit too simplistic, but this sounds like it will be up my alley. I will be sure to investigate. 🙂 May 25, 2015 at 4:49pm Reply

    • Jessicarus: Tamina, I have yet to have the good fortune to smell vintage ALO, but I so enjoy the reformulated version– I can only imagine what it must have been like at the peak of its power. I am sorry that you have run out! I have been wearing Violetta di Bosco I Profumi di Firenze, which if you haven’t tried it yet, you may like. It is predominately violet, heliotrope and anise on a base of benzoin. It is fairly bright and has great longevity and sillage for a violet scent. It is not the same as ALO, of course, but it might scratch that itch for you 🙂 May 25, 2015 at 10:40pm Reply

  • Natalia: Hello! I would kindly ask you for a recommendation – its the third day I am coming back from shopping after a shower of perfumes, still I havent bought anything.
    Recently I have been using Lime Verde, but it’s lasting for a really short time (1 hour). I am an architect/designer, 26 y o, usually with a little make up. I liked the gardens from Hermes, Gardenia was too sweet, dsquared Wood is too soapy after a while, Micheal Kors white (really nice bottle) turns out too sweet. I would like something green and maybe herbal, but with rather sweet woodish and warmish end.
    Thanks in advance! May 25, 2015 at 11:32am Reply

    • Caroline: Perhaps Guerlain Vol de Nuit edt. Hear the reformulation is ok (though diehard fans of vintage may beg to disagree!) May 25, 2015 at 12:40pm Reply

      • Natalia: Thanks a lot! May 25, 2015 at 1:46pm Reply

    • Figuier: Natalia, if you liked the Hermes jardins perfumes, maybe something like Bvlgari Eau Parfumee au The Vert would suit? It’s green but with a soft wood drydown. For lemony top-notes I also love Cristalle, the edt, by Chanel, although maybe it’s a little austere compared to Lime Verde – if so, you could try the edp, which has a slight fruit note to it. They’re both gorgeous. May 25, 2015 at 2:08pm Reply

      • Figuier: Oh, and what about Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Herba Fresca – green and bright, though not sure it fits the woody end requirement. May 25, 2015 at 2:09pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: What about Annick Goutal’s Heure Exquise? Lots of green galbanum, beautiful iris, rose and warm sweet sandalwood dry down. May 25, 2015 at 2:22pm Reply

      • limegreen: Hamamelis: You waxed so poetically about Heure Exquise on the last Recommend post to someone else’s thread, that I got it and loved it! So, thanks!
        It’s like a cross between Chanel no. 19 EDC and the original Balmain Ivoire, with a dry down that I always associate with a Goutal. It’s green and soft and lovely, thank you for the shout-out! May 30, 2015 at 10:46am Reply

        • Hamamelis: So glad to read. A very long time ago, when I was young 😉 I loved Ivoire, did not make the link with HE. May 30, 2015 at 12:33pm Reply

          • limegreen: HE may not evoke Ivoire for you since you knew the fragrance well from long ago. I just got to wearing the original Ivoire a year ago so my impressions of it are superficial at best!
            With the exception of Grand Amour and Eau d’Hadrien, I had just about given up on Goutal working out on my skin, and now HE and Ninfeo Mio have been both lovely discoveries for me, thanks to BdJ connections! May 31, 2015 at 9:49am Reply

            • Hamamelis: 🙂

              BTW Limegreen, did you ever try Eau du Sud? To my nose is it just like Clarin’s Eau Dynamisante, which I used to wear often in pre-perfumista summer days, I still like it a lot but it is so fleeting. Enters Eau du Sud, so similar, lovely and lasts a long time (on my skin, but I always moisturize before perfume). I still have to try Ninfeo Mio…but do I need another fig… May 31, 2015 at 11:32am Reply

              • limegreen: Hamamelis, I tested a sample of Eau de Sud a long time ago and it was very sour and unappealing. I wonder now if that batch of Goutals that I tried had all turned because I didn’t care for most of them. I will have to try it again. And my tastes have changed.
                Ninfeo Mio is not just a fig! It is fig leaf with milky sap greenness and fragrant fig scent without being overly ripe and sweet. Since you’re looking for a fig, may as well give it a shot …..
                🙂 June 1, 2015 at 9:23am Reply

                • Hamamelis: Limegreen do you happen to know how Ninfeo compares to Un jardin en Mediterranee?

                  Yes, it sounds like the samples turned, like my sour Eau du Ciel a.k.a. catpee, now fulfilling a function as mouse deterrent!
                  Because Eau du Sud is not sour at all to my nose, actually it is also reminding me of Cristalle. Aromatic verbena, basil and lime. June 1, 2015 at 9:40am Reply

                  • limegreen: Hamamelis, it was your eau du catpee turned goutal that got me thinking about my negative impression of this house. It was a long time ago so thought it was my nose.

                    don’t know if you are still reading but thanks, now I have to try EdS as I love Cristalle, both edt and edp. I am not always on skin chemistry terms with lime but will give it another sniff.
                    To my nose, Ninfeo is greener and more fig tree (not just the fruit), than Un jardin. The oozing tree leaf sap from fresh plucked figs is what I smell and enjoy for part of the fragrance and it’s pretty long lasting, more than un Jardin on me. To be honest, UJeM doesn’t rock my boat, IMO the fig is closer to conventional fig as in the fruit.
                    Ninfeo is greener and zesty, distinctive from other figs such as l’artisan premiere figuier and phylosykos June 1, 2015 at 4:08pm Reply

                  • limegreen: Maybe austenfan and andy can chime in — they recommended Ninfeo Mio to someone last Recommend post. June 2, 2015 at 10:36am Reply

    • orsetta: Natalia, i don’t know how familiar you are with Diptyque, but it may be worth your while to check their line?
      i’ve been going through my ‘forgotten’ samples today and have been reminded how good e.g. Philosykos is… fresh leaves, fig fruits – but not sweet, just greenish and crispy – just the aura of Mediterranean summer 🙂
      there is both EDT and EDP now, and normally they last reasonably long, (much longer than Limon Verde you tried) May 25, 2015 at 2:38pm Reply

      • Joy: I love Philosykos. It is so interesting and complex. I really like the herbal quality. May 25, 2015 at 4:44pm Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: If you like Lime Verde, you could also like Guerlain Homme (maybe discontinued).
        Or Fidji (Laroche), an old green classic, fresh, crisp.
        Or Untitled (Martin Margiela).
        A very fresh jasmin, not sweet at all: Gelsomino Nobile, Acqua di Parma.
        Or Déclaration, Cartier (fresh, spicy) May 25, 2015 at 4:51pm Reply

        • orsetta: oh yes, Fidji – another great classic! 🙂 May 26, 2015 at 4:18am Reply

      • Natalia: I ended up buying Philosykos – I went to wonderful perfumerie Skins in Amsterdam Nine Streets – from your recommendations I found only aqua di parma and chanel. But it’s ok, because I felt in love with the fruity wood of Philosykos instantly. Thank you so much!
        I also liked the green heart from comme le garsons. May 30, 2015 at 11:19am Reply

    • Neva: Maybe Wrappings by Clinique? It’s definitely green and herbal, but goes then in the direction of sweet. Sillage is great! May 25, 2015 at 5:27pm Reply

      • spe: Clinique Aromatics Elixir? May 26, 2015 at 10:14pm Reply

    • Natalia: Thank you all! I didn’t expect so many recomendations! I will try to smell it all this weekend – although I guess some of them are not available in mainstream perfumeries. Can somebody recommend me a place/website where I can order samples of those? I live in Amsterdam. May 26, 2015 at 4:45am Reply

      • kayliz: Natalia, I’m in Germany and order from parfumaria, which is in NL — they do samples of absolutely everything at a v reasonable price. May 26, 2015 at 4:56am Reply

      • Hamamelis: For mainstream decants you can also have a look at parfumswinkel.nl They sell Travalo’s filled with many different perfumes. May 26, 2015 at 11:30am Reply

    • Theresa: perhaps Andy Tauer’s Verdant? I love love love it, and have finally just ordered a full bottle, now that my sample is used up. it is potent, so one drop goes a long way. I anticipate the FB will last me my lifetime! May 26, 2015 at 3:09pm Reply

  • Christine: Victoria, Did you see Guerlain’s 2 limited edition bridal perfumes? ‘Le Plus Beau Jour de ma Vie’ and ‘Le Bouquet de la Mariee.’

    I smelled them at Saks Fifth. Very expensive though. May 25, 2015 at 12:43pm Reply

    • snowyowl: FYI I haven’t tried it, but Luca Turin has a scathing review of this new Guerlain as in sinking to a new low. You can google it (not affiliated but love good writing from someone who knows lots about fragrance) even if at times my personal tastes differ from his. May 26, 2015 at 8:49pm Reply

  • Austenfan: I second the Rosine sampler. It’s a good and reasonably priced line.
    A Rose with a woody or rather wood and incense base is Paestum Rose by Eau d’Italie. It’s not dirt cheap but there are loads of more expensive options.
    A rose with a patchouli and vetiver and musk base is Divine’s lovely L’Inspiratrice. I don’t know where you are but they sell a very nice and very affordable sample set.
    They recently added another very pretty rose to their line Spirituelle. Also very much worth a sniff.
    Etat Libre d’Orange has a wonderful dramatic and dark rose in their Eau de Protection Rossy de Palma.

    About jasmines; I wholeheartedly second VCA First. I wish La Haie Fleurie were still in production it’s another great rendition of the flower. May 25, 2015 at 1:03pm Reply

    • Austenfan: This was meant as a reply to Zunni’s question. Which is where it is now posted as well. May 25, 2015 at 1:05pm Reply

  • Vanie: Two questions from me today:
    1. I used to have the body lotion of Prada Infusion d’Iris. Now I have a miniature of the EDT and I don’t find its smell as nice. Do you guys know if the lotion is closer in smell to the EDP? Or maybe is it because I applied it by dabbing instead of spraying?

    2. I’m falling head over heels in love with the opening of Chanel Beige. However, it calms quickly on my skin and I find myself craving the top notes again after less than an hour or so. Is there a perfume out there that smells like the opening of Beige all the way through? Any tips on how to make this part last longer (other than reapplying at heart’s wish!) ?

    Thanks! May 25, 2015 at 3:52pm Reply

    • Aurora: Hello Vanie: 1. I am not familiar with the Infusion d’Iris body product but I can say the EDT and EDP are definitely quite different so if you can test the EDP maybe it will be closer to the body lotion you love.

      2. Perhaps you would get more satisfaction from Beige in extrait. It would be more expensive to be sure but maybe the top notes linger longer. May 26, 2015 at 12:45pm Reply

      • Vanie: Thanks for the tip! May 26, 2015 at 9:49pm Reply

    • Elisa: Those Chanels don’t last long. Try Arlesienne from L’Occitaine. Similar rose/violet/honey vibe and really quite pretty. May 26, 2015 at 4:22pm Reply

      • Vanie: Thanks! I hadn’t thought of this one! May 26, 2015 at 9:49pm Reply

      • Austenfan: I love L’Arlésienne. I think one of l’Occitane’s best in recent years. May 27, 2015 at 4:24am Reply

        • Julie: I agree! I think it is very pretty…I received it as a gift along with the soap. 🙂 May 30, 2015 at 11:37am Reply

    • Natalie: The lotion is definitely closer in scent to the EDP. The EDP of this is the only perfume I’ve ever repurchased when running out 🙂 Never could get into the EDT or the absolue May 29, 2015 at 8:44pm Reply

      • Vanie: Thanks! That’s helpful and I’m glad to hear that indeed the EDP is closer to the lotion! I guess I’ll need to get myself a sample of the EDP then… *grabs handbag and goes straight to Sephora* May 30, 2015 at 7:25am Reply

      • Vanie: I tested the EDP yesterday and you’re right! It is much closer to the body lotion scent I love. On my to-buy list it goes! May 31, 2015 at 10:07am Reply

  • Indigo: It has been about a year of me sampling and exploring, and I have had such useful advice here a few times that I am back again to help me narrow down my search.

    I am still after something woody and floral (I prefer red and purple florals to white – jasmine and neroli in high concentration are are no), spice and/or vanilla optional, berries are a bonus. However, I want a slightly dark or shadowy side to my scent. I have become increasingly intolerant of cheap drydowns but will happily buy one lovely bottle instead of 5 average ones.

    I like Feminité du Bois (although sillage and longevity, even in original, is not great). I love Portrait of a Lady (but oddly become anosmic if I don’t rotate it frequently, so no good as a signature, sadly). La Fille de Berlin is too rosey, Santal Majuscule is lovely, but can seem a little sour at times. I used to adore l’Heure Bleue’s cool nostalgia but don’t like the re formulation. Après L’Ondée does not last. I don’t like the strong aldehydes of Chanel 19 et al but have a guilty soft spot for Coco Mademoiselle… Another out of genre love is Pamplelune.

    If you experts can make any sense out of these ramblings, or think of anything I might have missed out on my attempt to pin down something daily wearable, I would be most grateful once again. May 25, 2015 at 4:03pm Reply

    • kayliz: I share a lot of your likes and recommend you try Rozy by Vero Profumo (the Voile d’Extrait rather than the EdP). It feels starkly different to me than everything I’ve ever tried — except for the drydown, which is deep and polleny, like that of Chamade. Earlier on there is rose, and tuberose, and dark honey, and I’m treasuring every precious drop I have! May 25, 2015 at 5:00pm Reply

      • Indigo: This sounds interesting, although to judge by the reviews, hard to pin down and describe. I wonder how the honey handles, as it can be a note that goes a bit wrong on me. Does the perfume share any kinship with Nahéma? May 26, 2015 at 4:56am Reply

        • kayliz: I find Nahema much brighter; the rose in Rozy is darker. Vero Kern’s perfumes are the first for me where the honey works — I usually find it plasticky or pee-y (Chanel Beige doesn’t work for me, for example). May 26, 2015 at 2:25pm Reply

          • kayliz: …or maybe I mean more matte rather than more dark. Nahema is very shiny bright, it seems to me, whereas Rozy smoulders. May 26, 2015 at 2:51pm Reply

            • snowyowl: This is so true, I have vintage Nahema which I love for its loud brightness that turns soft and rosy; but I absolutely go deeply head over heels for Vero Rozy which I have in the voile d’extrait and would love to try in the extrait when it is released in the U.S. I like the rozy edp but crave wearing the voile. For the reasons you mention about smouldering and getting ‘under my skin’ which was vero’s intention in creating it. If I can get anyone else to try and appreciate vero’s goodness, well, just try to stop me. I love her work! May 26, 2015 at 8:55pm Reply

    • Annikky: As we share many favourites, I’m just going to list the darker roses I like, although these would probably not be daily perfumes for most people: Neela Vermeire Mohur, Tom Ford Cafe Rose, Amouage Lyric, OJ Ta’if. And for red berries: JM Blackberry & Bay. The last one, at least, is completely wearable 🙂 May 26, 2015 at 8:53am Reply

      • Indigo: Thank you – I’m afraid I do prefer nocturnal scents, even by day, so your list looks great! Café Rose I remember quite liking – much more sociable that many TFs; I’ll revisit it. The Neela Vermeire I have been wanting to try for ages… sounds as though I need to track it down. Ditto for Amouage! Ta’if is not on my radar (yet!) Blackberry and Bay was much drier than I’d expected. I wonder whether it would layer well with one of Jo Malone’s florals… Great recommendations – really appreciated! May 26, 2015 at 12:47pm Reply

        • Annikky: If you want to go REALLY dark, there is of course Frederic Malle Portrait of a Lady. Une Rose is dark as well, but not as woody. If you have not tried it yet, be warned: POAL is a sillage monster. May 28, 2015 at 3:38pm Reply

  • Joy: Earlier in the year, Victoria recommended a Burberry fragrance. It is Burberry Brit Rythym. https://boisdejasmin.com/note/lavender
    I have really enjoyed this fragrance. It opens with lavender, but it is softened by peony and amber. Under the floral it is woody; it seems like cedar to me. It is not expensive and lasts well. It took a while to develop. I put it on in Sephora, wandered around the mall, and by the time I got to my car, could not believe the intriguing fragrance that was wafting from my wrist.

    I have really enjoyed testing the Diptique fragrances that limegreen donated for a draw last summer. Her generosity introduced me to these varied and interesting niche fragrances. I have purchased a couple. I really like the solid perfume. It is affordable for a generous amount, usually $48. I like that they are skin scents and exude a warm fragrance. One of my favorites is Volute, although it is no longer available in the solid perfume.
    I have just started reading THE EMPEROR OF SCENT, A True Story of Perfume and Obsession. It is about Luca Turin and his research into the theory of smell. May 25, 2015 at 5:04pm Reply

    • Cornelia Blimber: Hi Indigo!
      Maybe you are the one for Femme (Rochas).
      Or: Mauboussin Femme
      Van Cleef & Arpels (the diamond shaped bottle). May 25, 2015 at 5:08pm Reply

    • Michaela: I love Brit Rhytm dearly! Like you, I sampled following Victoria’s review, I felt I had to buy it, and I reached for it a lot this spring. May 26, 2015 at 3:49am Reply

    • limegreen: Hi Joy! Just waving hello and to say that I am so glad that you have enjoyed the diptyques! It is such a great line. I love the last 2 releases, one is all about mimosa and the latest is osmanthus apple blossoms sesame and coffee. May 27, 2015 at 7:47am Reply

  • Zunni: Thank you all for the wonderful rose and sandalwood suggestions above. I’m not certain how available these scents are here in Australia, but it will be fun to explore. Thanks! May 26, 2015 at 1:31am Reply

  • Indigo: Thanks for these suggestions. The Vero Profumo sounds lovely, and Brit Rhythm is definitely going on the to-try list.
    Cornelia: Femme is one of my mother’s fragrances! I’ll leave it for her, but it makes me think you might be on the right track so I’ll try to sample your other suggestions… May 26, 2015 at 3:59am Reply

  • Raisa: I hope it’s not too late to ask a question. I’ve got two of them.
    1. I fell in love with Absolutely Vital by Diana Vreeland. I’m especially crazy about the opening. But the price is crazy as well. Could you recomment me something similar?
    2. I love Eau de Campagne by Sisley but unfortunately it lasts one hour only on my skin. Anything similar? I know the tomato leaf is the dominant note here and I like it very much. However, what really attracts me is this green freshnes, more like a grassland at the beginning of spring or dewy leafy forest. Help 🙂 May 26, 2015 at 4:27am Reply

    • Danaki: Have you tried Diptyque’s L’Ombre dans L’Eau? It is green and fresh smelling, even the edp, and lasts on me, so might be worth it try. They also make a perfume oil version in a roll-on. For tenacity, I would try the edp or the roll-on though, not the edt.

      I love green scents! Especially in summer 🙂 May 26, 2015 at 7:20am Reply

      • Raisa: Thank you Danaki. I’ve tried L’Ombre dans L’Eau some time ago and thought it to be a little too retro. But as I’m still learning about scents I must give it another try 🙂 May 26, 2015 at 1:48pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: Have you tried any of the Goutals? Eau du Sud or Eau de Camille? Or what about Un jardin sur le Toit which has tomato leaf in its opening and is composed by Ellena as well? May 26, 2015 at 10:09am Reply

      • Raisa: Thank you Hamamelis. I know AG Le Nuits d’Hadrien, which I don’t like, and Ninfeo Mio, which I like a lot but there is more citrus than fresh ‘greenery’, if you know what I mean. I need to try Goutals you mentioned 🙂
        Ellena’s fragrances usually pass away exteremely fast from my skin. But maybe I’ll give them another try. May 26, 2015 at 1:54pm Reply

        • Hamamelis: Sur le Toit lasts long! May 26, 2015 at 3:04pm Reply

        • Hamamelis: PS Eau du Sud has basil besides the verbena, it is a little like Eau Dynamisante, but then long lasting! Camille has a grassy and ivy smell, very green. Hope you report back. May 26, 2015 at 3:21pm Reply

    • Tati: Hi Raisa, I love tomato leaf also! Try the Aedes de Venustra de Parfum in the red bottle (their own, not the L’Artisan one). It’s very unique, featuring rhubarb, tomato leaf, vetiver, and incense. It is fresh and not sweet. The only note that might be missing for you is the grassy one. May 29, 2015 at 12:47pm Reply

  • spe: Please recommend your favorite soliflores for a bride. No rose, please. Thank you so much! May 26, 2015 at 11:41am Reply

    • Hamamelis: Great recommendations by Aurora.

      Iris: Hermes’ Hiris, so fresh and lovely not too powdery and not too sweet.

      Lily of the Valley: Diorissimo, maybe a no brainer, but lovely nevertheless, especially if it is a spring bride. May 26, 2015 at 3:24pm Reply

      • spe: Hamamells,
        do you think the current version of Diorissimo is worth trying? I wore Hiris exclusively for many years! It smells feminine and soft. May 26, 2015 at 5:39pm Reply

        • Hamamelis: Hi Spe, V. wrote it has changed but is still good, I think you would have to buy the very last version, as the one before was a bad version. I bought a vintage Diorissimo, it wasn’t too expensive, on Ebay.
          At the moment Hiris is one of the scents I wear very often! May 27, 2015 at 3:23am Reply

    • Anat: Tauer Carillon pour un Ange (lily of the valley) May 26, 2015 at 10:04pm Reply

      • Anat: Also SL A la Nuit (jasmine) May 26, 2015 at 10:05pm Reply

    • Danaki: I like Aqua di Parma Gelsomino Nobile. The edt is less sweet, fresher. The edp has a tiny tuberose note, but both would be highly recommened jasmine soliflors. May 27, 2015 at 8:04am Reply

  • eleebelle: What do you oriental- and musk-lovers out there like to wear in the intense heat and humidity of summer?

    Some of the scents I love most range from heavy to stifling in hot weather, and I’d love to know how people with winter-oriented preferences translate their taste to summer. Thanks! May 26, 2015 at 12:59pm Reply

    • Nina Z: I definitely prefer orientals and spicy scents, so I hear you. For hot weather, I like Sideris by Maria Candida Gentile, which is a sheer incense fragrance. I also really like Chanel No. 22 (both vintage and modern) because it has incense mixed with white flowers, and the aldehydes make it very cooling. Paestum Rose by Eau de Italie is also sheer incense rose (quite different than Sideris). I guess incense gives my summer faves an unconventional kick. A sheer, light oriental you might like is Oriental Lounge by The Different Company. I also like green fragrances, but that is a whole ‘nother story. May 26, 2015 at 9:28pm Reply

    • Michaela: Hi eleebelle,

      I don’t say good bye to orientals in summer. I love onctuous, rich, balsamic, warm, sweet Arabian traditional attars during the heat. They stay close to the skin, smell gorgeous and last exceptionally well under the clothes. Not that I know too many, I just have 2 of them, based on rose and sandalwood, but I find they go very well in summer. Summers are not really humid in my area, though.
      I also wear Eau des Merveilles at all times, heat or cold.
      Other options are colognes. I thought I didn’t like them, but now they feel like a great discovery. Like Nina Z., I also like the greens. May 27, 2015 at 4:13am Reply

      • Michaela: Oh, and salty, bracing vetiver: Lalique Encre Noire. I almost forgot it; how could I, being one of my top favorites?! May 27, 2015 at 7:21am Reply

        • eleebelle: Thanks! Encre Noire sounds like a must-try! I’ve been wanting to try an attar but haven’t known where to start. How did you find one you liked? May 27, 2015 at 1:49pm Reply

          • Michaela: I was lucky to smell several from a friend of mine who visited Qatar. I chose 2 from Al Haraiman brand: Attar al Kaaba and Al Buraq. Not expensive considering you use drop by drop, a small 24 ml bottle seem to last forever. May 28, 2015 at 5:12am Reply

            • Aurora: Michaela: Many thanks as well for the info about attars, like Eleebelle I’ve been meaning to explore. I am putting Al Haraiman on my list. May 29, 2015 at 4:57am Reply

              • Michaela: I’ll be happy to know your opinion on these, whenever you try them! Select something ‘traditional’ from Al Haraiman (no sprays but perfume oils in specific bottles, easy to recognize by aspect). Avoid their so called ‘French’ line. I think all Middle Eastern brands offer a large selection of ‘French’ style perfumes, by far not so interesting, probably to satisfy the European tourists and young locals who became tired of their grandma kind of perfume and want to smell modern. May 29, 2015 at 6:14am Reply

                • Aurora: Thank you so much Michaela!
                  Yes, I understand what you mean if we want French perfumes we go for the real thing, traditional attars are much more appealing

                  I’ll make sure to report back in next thread once I get my paws on some Al Haraiman. May 29, 2015 at 12:38pm Reply

    • Annikky: Olfactive Studio Lumiere Blanche is a summer oriental in my book. It is also absolutely lovely, no matter the categorization. May 28, 2015 at 3:40pm Reply

  • Aurora: Hello Spe: I’ll start by listing some soliflores or almost soliflores I like:

    Lily: Gold by Donna Karan (discontinued but still widely available on ebay and Amazon), Baiser Vole by Cartier in EDT or EDP they are both good, Lys Mediterranee by Malle, all these have no rose

    Orange blossom: Neroli Blanc EDP by Au Pays de la Fleur d’Oranger, this lists rose among the notes but it’s not prominent at all all I smell is the wonderful o.b. and that’s very appropriate for a bride or there is also Bottega Veneta Knot which is very popular on the blog

    Honeysuckle: Le Chevrefeuille by Annick Goutal -very popular here or another white flowers which would be very appropriate for a bride: La Chasse aux Papillons by l’Artisan Parfumeur (there is an extreme version which is longer lasting as longevity is often an issue with l’AP)

    Gardenia: Marc Jacobs by Marc Jacobs is an aquatic gardenia or Un Matin d’Orage by Annick Goutal, a gardenia and jasmine or Private Collection Tuberose Gardenia by Estee Lauder which smells mostly of gardenia to me as does Michael Kors by Michael Kors

    Jasmine: Gelsomino by Santa Maria Novella, a nice soliflore or A La Nuit and Sarrasins by Serge Lutens and Joy by Jean Patou, these last 3 are not strictly soliflores but are mainly about jasmine

    Hope this is helpful, I am sure there will be other ideas. It’s a fun project you have. May 26, 2015 at 3:11pm Reply

    • spe: Thank you, Aurora. Which formulation of Joy is predominantly jasmine? Do you know? May 26, 2015 at 5:35pm Reply

      • Aurora: I only have the EDT so can’t compare. The EDT is a sparkling rendition of jasmine, I’ve just sprayed some. May 26, 2015 at 5:57pm Reply

        • kayliz: Seconding A La Nuit for jasmine, and Drama Nuui (Parfumerie Generale) for a more spring-like jasmine, or somewhere between jasmine and lily of the valley.

          Tuberose: Nuit de Tubereuse from L’Artisan Parfumeur. I can think of others I prefer wearing, but not a better one as a crowd-pleaser:)

          (Not going to suggest lily, given that my favourite is Death and Decay *oops*) May 26, 2015 at 7:30pm Reply

          • spe: Thank you, kayliz, aurora, and hamamells!
            It looks like some sampling is ahead! Thank you SO MUCH for the fabulous suggestions. May 26, 2015 at 10:30pm Reply

        • spe: Sounds beautiful! Joy parfum doesn’t sit well on me. May 26, 2015 at 10:13pm Reply

    • Anat: Lys Med is one of my very favorites
      I would suggest Ormonde Jayne Frangipani as well May 26, 2015 at 10:08pm Reply

      • spe: Anat,
        Tauer goes on the sample list – thank you! Do you prefer A La Nuit to Sarassins? Perhaps Sarassins isn’t a soliflore? Thank you for your help. May 27, 2015 at 9:45am Reply

        • Austenfan: A la Nuit is a much more straightforward rendition of Jasmine as a flower. Sarrasins is a leathery interpretation. I happen to prefer Sarrasins, but I think ALN is the more popular. May 27, 2015 at 3:59pm Reply

  • Anna: Dear all, my favourite scent is Chanel Allure Sensuelle, EDP, I love the initial freshness of this scent, but also that it rests very well on my skin (it does not turn sweet on me as I observed it happens with some people). I also like that it is long lasting and I can smell the scent even after having a bath. This is all nice during spring and fall, but as the summer comes, it becomes too dusty on my skin. So, I would like to find a summer perfume which smells very similar to Chanel Allure Sensuelle EDP. The EDT is not very close to what I want. I would like something from the mainstream line, niche products are too expensive for me. Thanks. May 27, 2015 at 4:08am Reply

    • Aurora: Hello Anna: It’s a little late but I hope this will still help you, I’vemade a Fragrances of the World search to find similar scents to Allure Sensuelle.

      It comes up with: Gucci Guilty Black for Women
      Jean-Paul Gauthier Classic
      Liz Earle No 100 (you will know this brand if you live in the UK)
      …and they meet you requirements by not being niche fragrances.

      You can try the site for free by googling Fragrances of the World and I discovered this thanks to Hammamelis so lots of thanks. May 28, 2015 at 8:07am Reply

  • Alice: Penhaligon’s Lothair.

    It’s incredible. I’ve never really gelled with any of the Penhaligon’s fragrances, though I did rather like Lily and Spice for a while, discontinued, typical.

    Lothair is just amazing though. I’d be interested to read what you think. May 27, 2015 at 10:52am Reply

  • Alice: Oh and Jaipur Homme. You can get a bottle of that really rather cheap now. Delicious. Again would love to see what a real ‘perfume-person’ thinks May 27, 2015 at 10:54am Reply

  • Anne: Dear all,
    I love Chanel Cristalle so much, but the EdT longevity is somehow disappointing. Would it be a shame to use at the same time the EdP as a background? I know it is a reformulation by Polge, it is not the same thing …. but together with the EdT that would add some sharpness and sparkle, and I would still get some longevity thanks to the EdP ….
    Let me know your thoughts ! Thanks a lot May 27, 2015 at 4:03pm Reply

    • AnnieA: If layering the two Cristalles together works for you, sounds like a great idea… May 27, 2015 at 5:38pm Reply

      • Michaela: Totally agree! This sounds creative, not something to be ashamed of. If the resulting scent is charming on you all day long, why not?!. May 28, 2015 at 5:43am Reply

  • Sapna: I’ve just discovered this blog and “Recommend Me A Perfume” is the best welcome gift ever! So I suddenly feel done with everything I own. The most recent go-to for me has been Guerlain’s Aqua Allegoria Pampelune. I don’t mean to throw it under the bus—I still like it and wear it. But it’s probably suffering for being the *only* perfume I like and wear. I need more.

    Other assorted info: I don’t like “fruity” smells, normally. I love the smell of orange blossom. I’ve worn L’Heure Bleue but it seems too sweet to me now. My first grown up perfume was Paloma Picasso, in college in the early and mid 90s.

    I’ll leave it there and go dive into your blog now! May 27, 2015 at 11:37pm Reply

    • Sapna: Just saw your “Perfume as a Costume” post and I have to add, Paloma was my costume through undergrad and twenties. It was a lot more complicated, glamorous, and sexy than I felt I was, and I always used it before a night out! May 27, 2015 at 11:50pm Reply

    • Rebecca: I haven’t tested Paloma Picasso, but I just looked up the notes and I probably will! (And for what it’s worth, I love Pamplelune.) Since it’s categorized as a floral chypre, you might try Estee Lauder Private Collection and Cristalle. Also, it does have some fruit in it, but try out Azemour les Orangers for a more citrussy chypre. May 31, 2015 at 1:28pm Reply

  • Natalia: Could you please recommend a beautiful peony? I am familiar wth some fragrances that carry that note, but all of them underline freshness of the flower and feel transparent though beautiful. But my idea of a perfect peony is different, for me the flower in lush, opulent, sweet and rich in its flavour. Never met such a peony in a fragrance ) May 28, 2015 at 4:32pm Reply

    • G: Have you smelled Pivoine by Yves Rocher? Highly recommended, and I think it’s close to what you’re looking for. May 28, 2015 at 6:59pm Reply

      • Natalia: Thank you so much. I’ll try it. May 31, 2015 at 4:33pm Reply

    • orsetta: i can second Pivoine by Yves Rocher – i used to wear it in my teenage years :-).
      truly great but unfortunately discontinued for quite some time….

      i can also recommend Angel Pivoine –
      i think it gorgeous, and it’s a really different take on Angel

      there is also one from Les Heures de Cartier: L`Heure Diaphane VIII – simply magnificent but on the expensive side…. May 29, 2015 at 5:01am Reply

      • Natalia: Thak you, I really enjoy L’Heure Diaphane, but for me this fragrance is more like a painted transparent veil.
        Definitely shall try the other two, though it looks like Angel Pivoine is a hard one to find… May 31, 2015 at 4:38pm Reply

    • angeldiva: Hi Natalia!
      I was given a full bottle of this perfume as a gift by a wonderful woman here, on Bois de Jasmin.
      It’s: Creed – Fluers de Gardenia. It really is a strong Peony, and very beautiful. You can find it at a discount on Overstock.com
      🙂 May 29, 2015 at 9:41pm Reply

      • Natalia: Thank you! I would never think by myself of looking for peony in a “gardenia” fragrance. Your description sound very much what I am looking for. May 31, 2015 at 4:35pm Reply

  • Clover: I live in Boston and have been wondering where might be able to sample some attars. I know there are some websites with sampling programs, but it would be nice to have an in-store experience. Anyone reading this know of anywhere local to Boston, MA (or even semi-local) that carries a selection? Hope I didn’t hop on this thread too late and there are still folks keeping up with incoming comments. Thanks to anyone who might have an answer or helpful tip! If I got here too late I’ll post again next time. May 29, 2015 at 11:54am Reply

    • NikNik: I live in Boston too, and can’t think of a place that has attars. Sorry. However, there is a great shop in the North End, Officina 189, that has a few perfume lines that can’t be found anywhere else in the country. Worth a visit if you love perfume. May 31, 2015 at 10:24am Reply

      • Clover: Thanks NikNik- I heard of Officina 189 and was thinking I need to go check it out. There’s got to be some place selling attars- maybe even a Middle Eastern grocery perhaps? This will take some heavy investigation. I’ll make sure to post results if anything turns up. May 31, 2015 at 6:39pm Reply

  • AndreaR: Heading to Italy next week. Our first stop will be Venice for a week and it looks as if the temps will be in the high 80’s. Any suggestions for a refreshing fragrance to take with me or should I shop in Venice:-) May 30, 2015 at 12:47pm Reply

    • Clover: Hi Andrea- What I would do is take along a Travalo or even just a sample size of something “all purpose” and go shopping at my destination. I’m sure you already own something you can take with you. Invest in a full bottle (or more) while you are on vacation. Get something you can’t find easily where you live, or better yet, something locally made and not found at all where you live. It will be a wonderful reminder of your trip. I’ve done it and don’t regret it a bit. As for shopping in Italy- never been. But it shouldn’t be hard to “sniff out” opportunities! You could also start with an internet search for perfume shopping in the cities you plan to visit. Have a great time! Would love to read an update next month as to what you purchased and what you ended up taking with you. May 30, 2015 at 1:16pm Reply

      • AndreaR: Great ideas. Thanks, Clover. I will indeed let you know what I purchase and what I decide to take with me. May 30, 2015 at 7:20pm Reply

      • AndreaR: These are the fragrances I took to Italy for three weeks:
        Jour d’Hermes; Annick Goutal, L’ll au The; Rochas, Eau de Rochas and Neela Vermier, Bombay Bling.
        I wore Jour D’Hermes on the flight to and from Italy. Pefect!
        In Venice I wore L’lle au The and Eau de Rochas. It was hot and humid and both disappeared in an instant. I went into the lovely perfume store, Perfumeria Bertolone, checked out a few fragrances and decided Houbigant’s Orange en Fleurs was worthy of a spritz. It was perfect in the humidity and I will be ordering a sample of it.
        On to Montalcino in Tuscany where the apartment we rented was next to Farmacia Salvione. They have a wonderful perfume section featuring, Acqua di Parma, Etro and Santa Maria Novella. I sampled Colonia Absolu and Iris Nobile, both nice, but I wasn’t compelled to purchase either.
        We also spent a week at an agritourismo in Umbria. A day trip took us to Spoleto where I happened upon a jewel box of a perfume store, Profumeria Marieangela. I was overwhelmed at the selection of fragrances they carried. You name it, they had it. The lady who helped me was just lovely. No problem with the language issue in a perfume store. Didn’t purchase Guerlain’s Vertiver Pour Elle. Still kicking myself!
        I didn’t wear any fragrance in Umbria because of the mosquitoes. However, beautiful, jasmin scented the air there, a jasmin much softer than the jasmin I grew up with in southern California.
        I wish I would have taken Annick Goutal’s Eau de Sud with me. It’s a sentimental favorite and would have worked well in each of the three areas we visited. We departed to the USA from Rome. The duty free shop is amazing, but there was not much time to spend there due to the convoluted check in system. June 29, 2015 at 1:06am Reply

    • Hannah: Eau des Merveilles, it’s very versatile so it is great for travel, in my opinion. I’m traveling right and I anticipated for it to be warmer than it has been, so I brought EdM, Bombay Bling, Chypre Mousse, and Blue Santal. Not sure if any of those are your style, though. May 30, 2015 at 2:51pm Reply

      • AndreaR: I have small samples of Bombay Bling and Eau des Merveilles and will pop them into my cosmetic bag. Thanks. May 30, 2015 at 7:24pm Reply

        • Hamamelis: Maybe some Cristalle or White Linen in a Travalo for hot Italian weather (and Venice crowds…)? Some marvellous perfumes are made in Italy, maybe you can look out for Unum; their latest perfume, Lavs is a very beautiful incense. May 31, 2015 at 8:23am Reply

          • AndreaR: Thanks! Will do. May 31, 2015 at 8:59pm Reply

    • angeldiva: Hi Andrea R,
      OMG what I wouldn’t give to visit the Merchant Of Venice Perfume location. Their bottles belong in museums! Amazing looking store. Have a safe and wonderful time! May 30, 2015 at 5:57pm Reply

      • AndreaR: Merchant of Venice Perfume sounds amazing. Will definitely add it to the agenda. Thank you. May 30, 2015 at 7:22pm Reply

  • Philomenafox: Hello everyone,
    I’m studying Art History.
    Next year, I need to write my bachelorpaper. Since I’m passionate about scent, I want to do my research around perfume. I’m still looking for an interesting research question. So if you have any tips or ideas, let me know Or if there is something about perfume you’d like to know? Thank you for your help x May 30, 2015 at 4:32pm Reply

    • Hannah: Philomenafox, do you have a more specific area that you study or are interested in? It isn’t perfume exactly, but I would be interested in researching something that deals with Japanese incense although I can’t think of a specific thesis right now. May 31, 2015 at 12:26am Reply

    • Hamamelis: Hi Philomenafox, maybe it is a bit obvious, but the relationship between Lalique and Coty might be a good cross between art history and perfume. I am not sure about a question, maybe how the art nouveau affected perfume? I don’t know where you live, but there is an absolutely lovely museum dedicated to Lalique in the Netherlands, till end of August there is an exhibition about Lalique perfume bottles. Some of them are still full with the original perfume, and according to the conservator it still smells stunning. They are kept under special light and adjusted temps. May 31, 2015 at 8:37am Reply

  • angeldiva: Isabella Rossellini- MANIFESTO

    Just curious! Has anyone tried this discontinued parfum? I bought a .33oz. out of sheer curiosity.

    Wow! It’s kind of fascinating how bad this smells! lol The opening is supposed to be: Bergamot, Basil and Pepper. But, it’s more like the green death of Godzilla.

    If someone in the perfume community in America is interested- after all their are many different tastes out there, and this is discontinued…
    I’d be happy to send this inside the US via a self addressed stamped envelope. It’s a small vial, and you can email me via Victoria.

    Sooo curious about any responses!
    Freely Yours,
    Angeldiva May 30, 2015 at 7:21pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: Hi Angeldiva, very good to see you here 😉
      I only very vaguely remember Manifesto from a very long time ago, pre perfumista era. Could it be your bottle has turned? May 31, 2015 at 11:33am Reply

      • angeldiva: Hi Hamamelis,
        Good question! I don’t think the bottle has turned. The dry down was pleasant. The top notes are just not compatible with my nose! It’s so unusual, and a bit aquatic. Maybe it’s good to learn one’s dislikes as well as what smells you love.
        Offer Is Still Good! May 31, 2015 at 4:14pm Reply

  • Lynda: I’m looking for a perfume that smells like apple blossoms. Any suggestions? May 31, 2015 at 11:30am Reply

    • Victoria: Calvin Klein Eternity was inspired by the scent of apple blossoms, but perhaps, it might be a bit too heavy and powdery. Hermes Jardin Sur le Toit also has an apple blossom note to me. May 31, 2015 at 11:57am Reply

  • ElenavL: Hi there 🙂 FB just told me the thread is still open so I thought why not ask experienced parfumistas.

    I have just got a huge bottle of Orange Sanguine and because it is so the bottle is enormous and the cologne hardly lasts I am looking for a decanter. I have read V’s article on the topic, but I am still a little confused. How safe is it to carry a little grass spay in one’s purse and how long is it till it breaks or leaks and ruins everything else in there? or is it perfectly safe and I am a big drama queen? I saw that they now also sell those Travalo decanters but they seem a but erm.. ugly. Is there something better one can get (except the pretty but an-arm-and-a-leg expensive Dyptique decanter ;)). May 31, 2015 at 11:35am Reply

    • Victoria: Do you have a Sephora nearby? They carry pretty containers for decanting perfume, and they look like silver lipstick tubes, sometimes decorated with small silver stars or crystals. I love them, and I carry them in my purse with no accidents. Just be sure to tighten the top well. May 31, 2015 at 11:56am Reply

      • ElenavL: Thanks a lot! I guess the nearest Sephora would be over the border in Antwerpen. Which used to be our “It is only an hour, I fancy a waffle let’s go!” destination before our daughter has arrived 🙂 But I will stock up next time I am there. June 1, 2015 at 4:39am Reply

        • Victoria: We used to be the same way! “Oh, it’s only a 3 hour drive.” After the US distances and my former 2 hour work commute, I loved how close everything felt.

          By the way, I had no idea that Antwerp had Sephoras. I’m used to stock up on these atomizers in Paris when I go there for work. June 1, 2015 at 5:59am Reply

          • ElenavL: And google says you are right about Sephora in Antwerp. I must have mistaken it for some other perfume store that The Netherlands does not have. June 1, 2015 at 5:21pm Reply

            • Austenfan: probably planet parfum. June 2, 2015 at 3:42am Reply

  • Austenfan: I’m not looking for perfume tips but would like a few recommendations on a face cream that would smell of roses. I’m not willing to pay luxury prices but something in the range of Nuxe or La Roche Posay (say up to €35,-/ 50 ml) would be perfectly acceptable. I have dry, sensitive skin so would love a cream that would suit my skin’s needs. Thanks! May 31, 2015 at 5:20pm Reply

    • Erianthe: I second Dr Haushka and love the products from Trilogy. They use rose hip oil which is very good for dry sensitive skin and skin that gets red(like mine!). Both lines have more of a natural smell though, and fade quickly- but both are a pleasure to apply and are very natural and effective. May 31, 2015 at 10:40pm Reply

    • Victoria: What about something from Weleda? I don’t remember the exact product, but they have a whole rose scented collection. Failing that, I love La Roche Posay Toleriane lotion with a spray of rosewater (mix them in the palm of your hand and apply). I find that it works better than any other fancy rose scented product (and you’re sure that your rose is natural and not a mix of synthetic ingredients; nothing wrong with synthetics per se, but natural rosewater has more benefits). June 1, 2015 at 6:04am Reply

    • Hamamelis: I second dr Hauschka (rozencreme), it is their classic. I don’t know if it will give enough moisture though, so you may use it in combination with their toner (gezichtslotion) or try the light version of the cream. The Weleda line is called Rosa Mosqueta, also nice.
      I use Aubrey organics, they also carry a rose line (but I use their age defying line 😉 )
      Hope your exams went well! Wearing HE again today, we had a very stressful morning, it helps… June 1, 2015 at 7:36am Reply

      • Austenfan: I think I might have done better than expected. We’ll see. HE is great at keeping one focused.

        I think I might be in need of some age defiance as well 🙂 June 1, 2015 at 8:11am Reply

      • angeldiva: Sending Good Vibrations! June 3, 2015 at 2:22pm Reply

    • Austenfan: Thanks for the tips, I think I’ve got some Toleriane somewhere and I still have plenty of rosewater.

      I once had a tester of Goutal’s facial cream. Gorgeous, but way too expensive for day to day use. June 1, 2015 at 8:16am Reply

      • limegreen: Hi austenfan, There’s also the wild rose line in Weleda with day and night cream as well as body oil. I use the wild rose eye cream, very soothing.
        Jurlique rose line is very rose like don’t know if you can get it there. I love the rose facial powder. June 1, 2015 at 4:33pm Reply

      • Victoria: I thought so too. It was nice, but not nice enough for the price. June 2, 2015 at 12:48pm Reply

        • Austenfan: I think I’m just not willing to spend that much on any kind of skincare, or haircare for that matter. Perfume on the other hand is quite another matter…. June 2, 2015 at 2:56pm Reply

          • Victoria: Skincare is one area in which I wouldn’t mind spending money, but the truth is that few expensive products really deliver results. June 2, 2015 at 4:11pm Reply

            • Austenfan: Precisely! My best night regime is a thick layer of Shea Butter for which I paid less than 10€ for 250 g. True, I do look like I just nosedived into a big pan of oil, but the results are great. June 3, 2015 at 5:25pm Reply

              • Victoria: Ever since I learned to decipher ingredients on cosmetics, my skin has started looking 10 times better and I spend far less on skincare than I used to. As you know, I love using oils. Right now my coup de coeur is rice bran oil. 10 euros at my local bio store. Great results. June 3, 2015 at 5:43pm Reply

                • Austenfan: I love your coup de cœurs! I’ve become quite partial to mango butter. Proper mango butter. And Peach Kernel oil, which I prefer to Almond oil.
                  Thinking about it I realise that I don’t mind spending money on skincare but I do mind spending astronomical prices on products that don’t deliver. So by and large Nuxe is about as expensive as I will go. June 7, 2015 at 2:39pm Reply

                  • Austenfan: that has to be coups de cœur! June 7, 2015 at 2:53pm Reply

                  • Victoria: The unsubstantiated claims and downright lies that the skincare brands tell make me crabby. At a department store a sales rep tried selling me mist (or maybe, it was toner) for 150 euros, claiming that it will transform my skin overnight. I didn’t dare ask into what. I don’t need dramatic changes (some moderate moisturizing action is all I ask), but really, it was a spray bottle with some scented water. Its main distinction was a ridiculous price. June 8, 2015 at 2:19am Reply

                    • Austenfan: I normally hide the fact that I am a doctor but on occasion I love to tell snooty SA’s who are trying to sell me a ridiculous skincare product that being a doctor I have a hard time trying to make sense of their claims. Not very kind, I know, but one cannot always be kind. June 8, 2015 at 6:20am

                    • Victoria: I can just imagine how you must feel when you get one of those lectures! June 8, 2015 at 10:36am

                    • Julie: I agree Victoria!…many times I have wanted to speak my mind while a person is trying to sell products. I would love to protest quietly through Macy’s with a bold red sign.:) I tried a product from Vichy recently (Life Serum) less than half the price of a major skin care line & I picked it up at the pharmacy. It’s quite nice. I think all roads lead to greed today. There really isn’t any miracle in a bottle.
                      When it comes to skin though just like food I think basic is the best. We really shouldn’t be straying too far from nature. Keeping it pure, understanding the list ingredients is very important. Keep it simple! A company here in the USA, the link
                      http://www.madhippie.com/ has some interesting products you may want to browse. Without a lot of the hype they seem to get right to the point, using very basic ingredients. I haven’t tried anything from them yet but I like the company name… As always, my best to you! June 8, 2015 at 7:30am

                    • Victoria: It looks very interesting. Thank you, Julie.

                      I also really like many products by Paula’s Choice, another brand with a no-nonsense approach. June 8, 2015 at 10:39am

        • limegreen: I got lucky — Whole Food was discontinuing Jurlique in their health/beauty dept, otherwise prices are quite steep. June 2, 2015 at 6:54pm Reply

          • Victoria: Lucky indeed! I love Jurlique products. June 3, 2015 at 11:23am Reply

  • May: Hi everyone – I love these “Recommend a Perfume” posts! Thanks in advance to the answers I’m going tor receive 🙂

    A lot of my perfumes don’t spray but turns into a watery consistency – what can I do about this?

    Also can you recommend perfumes that are like Si by Armani? How would you describe Si? May 31, 2015 at 6:21pm Reply

    • angeldiva: Dr. Hauschka products! May 31, 2015 at 7:41pm Reply

    • Victoria: Do you mean that your sprayer is clogged?

      Si is a fruiy gourmand, so you can also try Miss Dior Cherie (now called just Miss Dior) or YSL Black Opium. June 1, 2015 at 6:01am Reply

  • Ine: I usually wear spicy( Chergui) ,woody(Tam dao ,Ormonde woman) and a lot of classic scents ( Mitsouko, L’heure bleue, No 5 f.ex) However, lately I’ve been craving more citrusy scents, but I would prefer something a bit more interesting than the usual “sporty and fresh” citrusy scents. I hope someone has a few suggestions for me 🙂 June 1, 2015 at 6:14am Reply

    • Victoria: Have you tried Hermessence Vetiver Tonka or Parfum d’Empire Azemour (the line also has several interesting citrusy fragrances, not at all fresh and sporty)? Also, I love Orange Sanguine from Atelier Cologne (juicy orange). For something very intense, I’d recommend Guerlain Pamplemousse. Do try it on skin first, though, because it can behave unpredictably. It’s one of the best and most unusual citruses, but it is challenging. June 1, 2015 at 6:20am Reply

    • Hamamelis: What about Annick Goutal’s Eau du Sud? Longlasting and lovely citrus. Or…if you like the classics, maybe Cristalle? June 1, 2015 at 7:38am Reply

    • Austenfan: I second all of the above and would add Parfum de Nicolaï’s summer eaux to the mix. And maybe Chanel’s Pour Monsieur. June 1, 2015 at 8:26am Reply

  • Maria: Hi all,
    I’m having a hard time trying to decide what my next FB purchase will be. I want to get either Guerlain Cuir Beluga or Oriental Brulant. About 3 years ago I tried and tested Cuir Beluga and was instantly drawn to it and loved it. I didn’t end up buying it so now I’d like to. However I’m also contemplating Oriental Brulant. So which one? Ha Ha. I can’t seem to decide and I can only get one fragrance.

    My current favourites are:
    Guerlain Mon Precieux Nectar
    Chanel Cuir de Russie and Misia,
    SL Daim Blond and Gris Clair
    SMN Melograno
    Le Labo Santal 33
    and Chloe Si Belle

    My taste is all over the place. I suppose I’d like something warm, enveloping and memorable. My husband just bought me Apres L’Ondee (long time wanting this one) and Nerolia Bianca.

    Any other suggestion by Guerlain? Should I just go for CB?

    Maria June 1, 2015 at 11:52am Reply

    • Victoria: If you fell in love with Cuir Beluga, just for that one! It’s warm, enveloping, memorable, all the things you want. June 2, 2015 at 12:56pm Reply

  • Lynda: Thank you for your recommendations Victoria. I find it very interesting that Calvin Klein Eternity was inspired by apple blossoms. Personally, I think the perfumer confused the scent of Apple blossoms with the scent of carnations. Just about every review I’ve read about Eternity mentions a dominant carnation note. I’m going to try the Hermes and I think Demeter makes an apple blossom scent as well. I can’t believe how difficult it’s been to find this particular scent. Maybe it’s hard to duplicate? June 1, 2015 at 1:41pm Reply

    • limegreen: The new diptyque has a good dose of apple blossom in it, very fragrant and sweet. June 1, 2015 at 4:36pm Reply

      • Lynda: Thank you limegreen. I’ll check it out. June 3, 2015 at 1:22pm Reply

      • angeldiva: Hi Limegreen!
        Love, Love Loving my Dyptique Tarocco!
        Best Wishes! June 3, 2015 at 2:20pm Reply

    • Victoria: It’s a very delicate scent, so yes, it’s a bit hard to match. I was swooning over my grandmother’s apple blossoms and wishing I had a perfume just like that. June 2, 2015 at 1:06pm Reply

      • Lynda: Me too Victoria. If I ever find that scent I’ll let you know. 🙂 June 3, 2015 at 1:23pm Reply

  • Hannah: I tried Mechant Loup yesterday. It has the same problem that I have with most L’Artisan perfumes–they’ll all weirdly plasticy to me, like I’m smelling a scented doll or something. I’ve never seen anyone else mention it, but they have that quality to me.
    So anyway, is there anything else that nutty and honeyed? June 2, 2015 at 7:46am Reply

    • Victoria: Have you tried Parfum d’Empire Fougere Bengale? June 2, 2015 at 4:34pm Reply

  • angeldiva: Sharing My Joy!
    Today I purchased a full bottle of my favorite perfume! It’s Annick Goutal- Le Chevrefeuile! It has been so hard for me to find a deal on this – and , to find anyone with this scent in stock. But, I got my email alert from: Perfume.com and a 3.3 oz. bottle was $67.00 US.
    I think that’s quite a deal considering I paid over $70. for samples that I decanted into an empty AG bottle I purchased on Ebay! I wore it to the Grammys.
    Hope all Chevy Fuel lovers can take advantage, as well. I have no idea if AG is phasing out this beautiful perfume.
    BEST! June 2, 2015 at 7:54pm Reply

    • Aurora: Very happy for you, Angeldiva. And it’s very sweet of you to give us updates on prices and suppliers so that we can benefit from this good deal. June 3, 2015 at 10:17am Reply

    • Hamamelis: Congratulations Angeldiva, hope you will enjoy it for many years! June 3, 2015 at 11:43am Reply

      • angeldiva: Thank-you Aurora and Hamamelis!
        Fans of Petit Cheri Womens can also pick up .5 oz. of EDT for $16.98 !!! wow
        🙂 June 3, 2015 at 2:17pm Reply

    • limegreen: Good for you, angeldiva! A 100 ml bottle will last a long time, glad you found it in your favorite perfume at the right price. 🙂
      and isn’t diptyque tarocco so refreshing for the warm weather in sunny Cal? 🙂 June 7, 2015 at 3:39pm Reply

What do you think?

Latest Comments

  • Rachel H in Chanel No 22 Perfume Giveaway: How wonderful – thank you! Andy Tauer’s L’Air du Désert Marocain is a classic -my favorite winter fragrance. I don’t know what is actually in it but on me it… November 3, 2024 at 1:34pm

  • Lina in Chanel No 22 Perfume Giveaway: 1. I can recommend Nicolai Ambre Cashmere (luxurious and warm, not sweet at all, soft sillage) or Papillion Tobacco Rose (elegant ambery rose, a bit more presence). Another favorite for… November 3, 2024 at 12:16pm

  • madtowngirl in Chanel No 22 Perfume Giveaway: What a generous giveaway! 1. Perfumes that evoke autumn for me include vanillas, ambers and sandalwoods. My current line up includes Atelier Vanille Insensee, Dame Black Flower Mexican Vanilla, Chanel… November 3, 2024 at 8:33am

  • Iuliana in Chanel No 22 Perfume Giveaway: Thank you for the generous giveaway! 1. In no particular order, looking through my list of perfumes: , Guerlain’s L’Heure bleue (particularly since the clocks went back last week), Serge… November 3, 2024 at 7:33am

Latest Tweets

Design by cre8d
© Copyright 2005-2024 Bois de Jasmin. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy