We have our “Recommend Me a Perfume” thread today. You can use this space to ask any questions about perfume, including fragrance recommendations.
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
257 Comments
Connie: I would love to know what people find worth trying among the recent releases! Or any recent discoveries? November 13, 2015 at 7:51am
Audrey: I replied to you below :), 2 posts down…..I hit the wrong button! November 13, 2015 at 8:37am
Sandra: I really liked Tom Noir pour femme-the dry down is really nice. Not sure what you like but its a gourmet.
On a less expensive scale, I like Elixir D’Orient from the store called Rituals. Not to mention all their bath foam products.
Happy Sniffing! November 13, 2015 at 8:41am
limegreen: I second Sandra’s “find”! I loved the TF Noir Pour Femme body lotion, really irresistible, gets to the that wonderful drydown faster and lasts. November 13, 2015 at 10:00am
limegreen: P.S. And I’m not normally a lover of gourmands, so this is not cloying or sweet as some others might be. November 13, 2015 at 10:01am
Cristina: I love the Rituals also…just recently discovered in Brussels and I purchased a tiny bottle of it… November 14, 2015 at 8:55am
Ida: Sisley Soir d’Orient is worth a try. I’d add Alaïa as well (reviewed by Victoria a while ago). November 13, 2015 at 9:37am
Lynley: Bvlgari Thé Bleu, Acqua di Parma Colonia Ambre, JM Mimosa and Cardamom, Armani Privé Ambre Eccentrico (amber crossed with Jungle l’elephant!). The MiuMiu bottle is gorgeous but unfortunately the juice lacks the same personality. November 13, 2015 at 12:35pm
Aurora: Hello Connie: I have recently discovered La Maison de la Vanille which has a line of 5 perfumes all based on their excellently sourced vanilla. November 13, 2015 at 3:03pm
Tati: I’m loving my sample of Ex idol Ryder, an amber with incense and tobacco, but I’m biased as Ex idol 33 was also a favorite. November 13, 2015 at 7:01pm
kayliz: Oh gosh yes, Ryder — warm, deep, rounded and yet complex: lovely. I thought 33 was great too and don’t consider myself biased;)) November 14, 2015 at 9:14pm
Victoria: I liked the new YSL Oriental Collection, although the price is the Tom Ford level ridiculous. November 13, 2015 at 11:58pm
G.B.: I would also like to ask the same question with a preference for affordable(every day use) true lemon essence. November 14, 2015 at 2:13pm
Surbhi: IF you like oud, try odin no 12 lacha. I have sniffed it twice and its growing on me. I also tried it on a jasmine fragrance, that made it even more interesting for me. November 14, 2015 at 4:51pm
Raisa: Halfeti by Penhaligon’s is worth trying November 14, 2015 at 5:21pm
Patience brown: I am looking for recommendations. I adored the old version of YSL Rive Gauche, and JAR’s Golconda. Thank you November 24, 2015 at 9:53am
Gio: Since you like Rive Gauche, what about Madame Rochas? November 29, 2015 at 2:17am
Curious: Hello everyone- happy Friday!! My taste’s become so fickle! I want to really LIKE a perfume, but none attracts me! GUess I am stuck in the past 🙁 I always crave for my favorites that are now discontinued: Blush by Marc Jacobs, Tendre Poison and D&G Feminine- which perfumes do you suggest I try to replace each? I dont like sweet smells or heady florals and my budget is around £70 ($100, €100). Feeling desperate and miserable because I dont smell the way I want to! Thank you very much for your help! November 13, 2015 at 8:31am
Jorge: Cabotine de Grés has similar points to Tendre Poison…is a green floral, delicated but strong. Sligthly astringent and sweet finish November 13, 2015 at 9:50am
Curious: Thanks Jorge, Cabotine is very similar, you are right and I agree with you it’s astringent. It leaves a very sharp sillage on me, Tendre Poison was so much more “tender”… Why would they discontinue such gems?! November 13, 2015 at 11:48am
Cristina: Yes, I agree…I have been using it on and off for years and I still love it…. November 14, 2015 at 8:58am
Allison C.: Hello! I really liked Blush as well. You might want to try Annick Goutal’s Chevrefeuille or other honeysuckle scents which I find to be in the same spirit as Blush. November 13, 2015 at 10:16am
Curious: Oh yes- I like it AG’s Chevrefeuille, I should re-visit maybe? Thanks! November 13, 2015 at 11:46am
Aurora: Hello curious, I’ve had a look at Fragrances of the world for you and for Blush they suggest: Carven Le Parfum, Valentino Acqua Floreale (I have a bottle of this it’s a nice orange blossom,soft but long lasting), and Oscar de la Renta Something blue. Have a look at this fun site, it can be a bit hit or miss but sometimes the suggestions are a good fit.
I learned about this site from Hamamelis, so many thanks to her. November 13, 2015 at 12:26pm
Aurora: Also, my own recommendation: have you tried La Chasse aux Papillons by l’Artisan Parfumeur? It’s a light floral. November 13, 2015 at 12:30pm
Curious: Hey Aurora- thanks for your comments, I’ll def check the website. And yes, I did try the ones you suggested when I was pregnant, so probably my judgement was under the influence of hormones- will re-try those. Thanks again! November 16, 2015 at 8:44am
spe: Have you tried any of the Burberry scents? November 13, 2015 at 8:18pm
Curious: I have- do you have a particular one in mind? Rhythm was kinda nice, but I dont particularly remember any other. THanks! November 16, 2015 at 8:45am
Sandra: Good Morning! I love this thread. I am finally feel as though my perfume wardrobe is complete thanks to the helpful suggestions on this website. I have a great rose, nice orientals, a gourmet and sandalwood. What more can a girl ask for! November 13, 2015 at 8:35am
Lynley: Iris, violet, leather, chypre, cologne, BWF…… lol! 😉 November 13, 2015 at 9:21am
Sandra: Hahaha! ? November 13, 2015 at 9:37am
Surbhi: Can you tell me which sandalwood one do you have? I love vetiver from malle but that is off limits as I got that for bestie. November 14, 2015 at 4:59pm
Sandra: For sandlewood- Samsara November 16, 2015 at 7:04am
Audrey: The Atelier Des Ors line is quite nice. Annick Goutal Vanille Charnel is worth trying, as is Guerlain’s Ne M’Oubliez Pas. For designer, a Narciso Musk oil (the new one in the white bottle, not the For Her) is lovely, and I got a bottle of Armani Si perfume oil that is very nice as well, I prefer it to the EDP. November 13, 2015 at 8:36am
Sandra: I have been wanting to try Guerlain’s Ne M’Oubliez Pas and the new Shalimar cologne but they never hopped over the puddle and made it to the USA. Maybe one day.. November 13, 2015 at 8:49am
Sandra: Has anyone tried these? November 13, 2015 at 12:02pm
Alison: You will never believe this but I say give Tory Burch’s new Absolu a try. It’s fairly new. My husband bought it for me for my birthday a few weeks ago. I knew the box was a fragrance and I was so excited! When I opened it and saw it was from her, I was HORRIFIED!!!! Her first fragrance was not for me, too “pretty” and didn’t last. Plus, I really don’t care for her as a designer. Her branding is so tired here in the US. Anyway, my husband was so excited about his “find” I had to look excited. So I gave it a try. Didn’t like it. But I told myself to try it for a week and live a little. Honestly, I do like it! Maybe after I also leaned it came from Estée Lauder I felt it had more credibility, too. Funny how one’s perceptions can taint your opinion, and openess to new experiences! November 13, 2015 at 9:51am
spe: Great story and so true. I’ve experienced the same. November 13, 2015 at 8:20pm
Bonnie: I’m looking for a perfume that’s not heady, powerful or flowery – I want to be able to wear it to work – I want to smell like fresh spring air. I want a scent that is so clean, it’s cleaner than soap and water. I’ve just got this yearning for a different kind of scent from the ones I’m wearing: Black Opium, Candy, Lola, Dior Addict, Light Blue. Don’t get me wrong – I love those perfumes. But I need something else in my perfume wardrobe that’s akin to a nude lipstick that’s the perfect “your lips but better”. A lipstick that makes your beauty just a little more obvious 🙂 Without screaming, “Hey everyone, I’m wearing lipstick!”. That’s the kind of scent I’m searching for! An impossible dream? Say it ain’t so! November 13, 2015 at 10:13am
Cornelia Blimber: Hi Bonnie! I think Untitled by Martin Margiela could be your perfume! November 13, 2015 at 10:29am
Bonnie: Thank you so much! Sounds impeccable!!! November 13, 2015 at 1:25pm
Jackie: I second MMM Untitled. “Impeccable” is a good word for it!
Somehow Tocca Cleopatra comes to mind with your analogy to a”your lips but better” lipstick. It’s definitely not soapy “clean,” but it’s beautifully balanced between cozy and fresh, making it very wearable and inoffensive. Can seem a bit much when you first spray, but wait for the drydown. November 15, 2015 at 11:28am
Sandra: Hi Bonnie-
How about Eau de Cologne from Chanel. Its got a lemony jump of the skin but its very clean and just out of the shower refreshing. Its my go to in the summer months. Also Jersey (chanel) and Clean fresh laundry smell soapy and yummy.
Others are:
Philosophy Amazing Grace
Aqua de Gioa by Armani
DK pure
And if you are looking for inexpensive Bath & Body works white citrus & L’occitane Verbena or Lemon Verbena
Good luck! November 13, 2015 at 11:46am
Bonnie: Such intriguing recommendations, thank you ever so much! November 13, 2015 at 1:26pm
Nina Z: This is a tough one because what signifies as “clean” varies from culture to culture, from country to country, and from individual to individual. Perhaps you could say more about what signifies as clean and fresh to you? Perhaps citrus? The perfume suggested above is green, which is another way to go. Perhaps Chanel No. 19 would be another green way to go for fresh spring air.
I was going to suggest Serge Lutens Clair de Musc, a very soft and pretty (not skanky) musk scent, as a “nude” scent. Some people associate certain musk scents with clean because they smell like American laundry soap. So that’s another way to go. November 13, 2015 at 11:51am
Bonnie: I do love Chanel No. 19 but I’ve never tried anything by Serge Lutens. This is one I’d like to sample. Thanks for the suggestion! November 13, 2015 at 1:27pm
Solanace: Since you’ll be at Uncle Serge’s counter, do give Louve and Fleurs de Citronnier a try, too. They are both very soft and dreamy and just as luxurious as a Tom Ford nude lippie. November 14, 2015 at 10:37am
Bonnie: I sure will, thanks! November 16, 2015 at 10:26am
Ida: So true. To me ‘clean’ means a bit soapy or washing powder like, close to skin. Some musks, orange blossom notes, perhaps some irises come to mind.
I wouldn’t call 31 Rue Cambon particularly clean for example. November 14, 2015 at 4:24am
Lynley: Maybe Jersey or Beige by Chanel or Thé Blanc by Bvlgari. I find these are not so far in the clean and fresh direction that they are no longer ‘nude’ scents, but are subtle and gentle and fresh- still perfume but not too ‘perfumey’ nor too screechy squeaky clean. November 13, 2015 at 12:30pm
Bonnie: The Chanel perfumes sound lovely but I don’t know where to get them in the shops – our local supply of Chanel is limited to the few big sellers. However I do know where I can get my mitts on The Blanc by Bulgari, and I’m very excited to try it. Thanks! November 13, 2015 at 1:29pm
Aurora: What about a tea fragrance like Bulgari au the vert or au the rouge, they are among the ‘cleanest’ scents I own, along with Pure Grace by Philosophy a line already recommended above. November 13, 2015 at 12:42pm
Bonnie: Bulgari seems to be a leading contender in this field, I am excited to try all three tea fragrances. Thanks for the suggestion! November 13, 2015 at 1:30pm
mj: If I can suggest you another tea frangrace, do try Bulgari Thé Bleu. It has notes of lavander and iris, and for me smells very fresh and clean. November 13, 2015 at 5:40pm
Hamamelis: Have you tried any irisses like Infusion d’Iris, Hiris (Hermes) or Heure Exquise (especially as you love no 19)? Or something skinlike salty clean is Eau des Merveilles? Or something milky such as Olfactive Studio Lumiere Blanche (maybe not easy to smell where you live)? Or a last suggestion a scented bodycream, Chanel no 5 is lovely? Good luck and hope to hear back! November 13, 2015 at 2:43pm
Bonnie: I really like the scented body cream idea, I may go that route 🙂 November 16, 2015 at 10:27am
Tomate Farcie: I’m a big fan of Annick Goutal Musc Nomade and Olfactive Studio Lumiere Blanche and for more of a “mineral” skin scent Eau des Merveilles or Chanel 31 Rue Cambon November 13, 2015 at 3:23pm
Audrey: Try the new Miu Miu scent…..it’s s nice, clean, springlike floral but not laundry-ish or overly musky. November 13, 2015 at 3:31pm
aromaology2015: Hi Bonnie,
Have you tried Chanel’s 31 Rue Cambon from the Les Exclusifs range – it came to mind as soon as I read your comments – I find it very clean, elegant, perfect for work and just utterly beautiful. November 13, 2015 at 5:36pm
Bonnie: Sounds so divine! November 15, 2015 at 5:53pm
George: It’s hard to know what clean actually means in terms of smell, because it means the absence of dirt, rather than anything identifiable in itself. Chanel are the best for picking out vulgar molecule- try 1932, Bel Respiro, Jersey, the cologne and No. 18 for their cleaned up versions of a jasmine, a green, a lavender-vanilla, a cologne and a fruity rose scent. With regard to Serge Lutens, you might want to research the L’eaux series and the latest releases L’orpheline and La Religieuse, which are a series of clean fragrances, an incense and barbershop mix, and a soapy non-indolic jasmine. Then, there are the Ellena scents (he tends to use a minimal number of molecules or ingredients to get the effect he wants so they are light and very transparent), see the aforementioned Bulgari Green Tea (also the non-Ellena others in that line), Voyage and Eau de Merveilles by Hermes. As a twist on the theme, you might want to try Geranium pour Monsieur by Malle: it’s a geranium and sandalwood but has a good shot of mint that give a cool clean contrast to the more atticky elements of the scent. Finally, if you want something literally that smells of clean, there is the Clean range (I don’t like the ones of these I have tried). You might also want to try Estee Lauders Pleasures and White Linen, because they have clean associations for a lot of people. And finally- in the extreme case that you want something that smells like urinal block/bleach in its opening (haven’t got past this, so don’t really know to what it progresses)- try Byredo M/Mink (I’m not really recommending this) November 13, 2015 at 5:37pm
George: (and because aromaology2015 has reminded me of it below)- also, Herba Fresca by Guerlain. November 13, 2015 at 7:25pm
Ida: Considering that it can develop into something described by some as ‘slightly sweaty’, I’d be very careful with No. 18. 😉 November 14, 2015 at 4:28am
Annabel Farrell: I used to like Eau d’Issey Miyake and found it very clean – not 100% sure if it’s still in production as I haven’t noticed it around for a long time. November 13, 2015 at 8:17pm
Ida: It’s quite interesting, there’s actually something dirty in L’Eau d’Issey after 30 minutes or so on my skin. It’s not an entirely clean scent to my nose. November 14, 2015 at 4:14am
spe: Heaven by The Gap? Just a dab of Dans Tes Bras by Malle? L’ eau de Hiver by Malle?
More gender neutral: Gendarme by Gendarme (the women’s version is the same or close and has a name I cannot remember right now) or Original Vetiver by Creed. The more I think about it, the more I like Gendarme for you.
Clean is a cultural reference. Where do you live? November 13, 2015 at 8:29pm
spe: Castille by Penhaligon. November 13, 2015 at 8:29pm
spe: Gendarme women is Carriere. November 13, 2015 at 8:40pm
Bonnie: I live in Toronto, where fragrance is frowned upon in most workplaces and public places. Of course, having sat behind some really scent-soaked ladies on the streetcar, I totally understand the mistrust of scent! Plus I’ve been chided more than once for wearing scent, so I’m ultra careful! November 16, 2015 at 10:30am
Christine: I think you should try Parfums de Nicolai l’Eau Chic. When I wear it my daughter says I smell like “fancy soap.” Geranium and mint–it smells fantastic and very “clean” to me. If I don’t have time to think, that’s what I put on. November 13, 2015 at 11:51pm
Figuier: What about one of the muskier Hermes Eaux? Gentiane Blanc and Narcisse Bleu are both clean and refreshing to me. November 14, 2015 at 4:42am
Figuier: Also, I wore Narcisse to work from June through September, it’s definitely office compatible. Wearing it made me feel fresh and professional without sternness. November 14, 2015 at 4:45am
Cornelia Blimber: Compliments, George! your list is impressive.
To me a” clean perfume” means absence of sweetness, but one can think more accurately about it, like uou did (and Nina Z.)
I would like to add the sharp, soapy Vitriol d’Oeillet by Lutens (my favourite in the heat). November 14, 2015 at 5:51am
Bonnie: Sounds very good to me. November 16, 2015 at 10:31am
Lara: Bonnie, I strongly reccomend you to try Oolong Infini by Atelier Cologne , it is a very light, sort of airy-fresh scent. Definetely clean. A perfect fragrance for work! November 14, 2015 at 5:22am
Cristina: Maybe you would like to try Moschino Star…I like it a lot and it lasts very well…. November 14, 2015 at 9:03am
maggiecat: Clean’s new “Cashmere” is worth a try – lovely, fresh scent, very beautiful and perfect for office wear. November 17, 2015 at 6:04pm
SilverMoon: Hi Bonnie, Fresh and ‘clean’ smells were very popular for a while so there are still a number around. I immediately thought of White Linen and L’Eau d’Issey Miyake. You already have many suggestions so won’t repeat them, but I do have one new one to add. Gentlewoman from Juliette has a Gun. It is soft, clean and close to the smell of sheets line dried near a meadow on a summer’s day. November 21, 2015 at 3:46am
Michelle Peek: I like Chanel’s Exclusives Beige for that very reason. December 3, 2015 at 11:50am
Michelle Peek: Bonnie,
I like Chanel’s Exclusive Beige for that very reason. Also you may want to try Balmain Ivoire. December 3, 2015 at 11:52am
Wilma: Victoria… I spot Piketty’s book Capital in the 21st century. Are you reading it? And if so… any recommendations to go with the book? November 13, 2015 at 11:09am
sage julia: the EDP of matin d’orage, not the EDT…..have you tried it?? November 13, 2015 at 12:41pm
DD: I don’t have a great vocabulary to describe fragrances (I’m not too familiar with ingredients), so it’s tricky for me to explain what I’m looking for! However, maybe if I name some of my favorites (which tend, I think, toward traditional scents, maybe aldehydes?) someone can connect the dots to a new fragrance for me to try? I love: First (Van Cleef & Arpels), Chanel no. 5, Calandre, Climat (discontinued, I think: Lancome), Timbuktu, Givenchy III, Odalisque. I also like subtle violets. I’m looking for a fragrance that isn’t too “young,” sharp, or fruity. Never liked Opium or Coco. Thank you!! November 13, 2015 at 1:00pm
Nina Z: The new version of Chanel No. 22 from the Exclusives line is a gorgeous aldehyde scent, with gentle white flowers and incense, so fizzy and uplifting! It makes me a bit giddy. You can buy the smaller sized bottles online so the price is not so outrageous.
Other ideas for classic aldehydes are Amouage Gold Woman and Amouage Gold Dia, with Dia being gentler and more subtle than the powerhouse that is Gold.
And what about Frederic Malle Lipstick Rose for a retro and subtle violet? November 13, 2015 at 1:49pm
DD: Those are wonderful suggestions, Nina, Hamamelis, Kayliz, and Tomate Farcie. So many new (to me!) fragrances to try. The only one I’ve already sampled–and loved–was Guerlain’s L’Heure Bleue. Thank you to all of you! November 13, 2015 at 5:35pm
Marion: Wow. I would have suggested the very same! I love all these. November 14, 2015 at 11:49am
kayliz: Seconding Nina’s suggestions!
Some more possibles: Guerlain’s Chamade and L’Heure Bleue, and Misia from Chanel’s exclusive line. November 13, 2015 at 2:44pm
Nina Z: Good call on Misia! November 13, 2015 at 5:36pm
Hamamelis: Maybe no 5 Eau Premiere, different enough from no 5 for me to have them both. Histoires des Parfums Moulin Rouge may be worth checking ( lovely iris and violet). Lastly Heure Exquise because it is always right! November 13, 2015 at 3:02pm
Tomate Farcie: I love Odalisque…maybe By Kilian Love and Tears. I’d also suggest Ann Gerard Perle de Mousse and Cuir de Nacre. Timbuktu is totally different, have you tried Tauer’s L’Air du Desert Marocain or Lonestar Memories? November 13, 2015 at 3:13pm
aromaology2015: If you like Timbuktu, I think you’ll love Sycomore from the Chanel Les Exclusifs range – it is a more feminine vetiver – I love them both. For subtle violets you could try Misia from the same range or Guerlain’s Apres L’Ondee.
Good luck. November 13, 2015 at 5:28pm
spe: You and I are scent twins!
Agree with everything recommended by Nina. Especially Chanel 22.
For something new: Love in Black by Creed, Dan Tes Bras and Une Fleur de Cassie by Malle ( give these a half hour or so to settle – they’re tough right out of the bottle)!
Essence by narciso Rodriguez and Rive Gauche by YSL.
Fleur de Chine by Tom Ford.
These are some of my favorites.
Please let us know what you decide! November 13, 2015 at 8:38pm
Tiamaria: Une Fleur De Cassie and Fleur De Chine would be my suggestions too. November 14, 2015 at 6:01am
DD: Spe, aromaology2015, and Tiamaria: I can’t tell you how glad I am to have these recommendations. They sound wonderful. And they are almost all new to me. Can’t wait to try these. November 17, 2015 at 8:52pm
joana: I do not *really* search for a new perfume (because I have too many bottles…).
I wanted to mention that east indian sandalwood essential oil (*got it last week*) really smells different from new caledonian one… it is so interesting how different origins can influence the outcome (Also love Tisserand’s book). I am totally into discovering essential oils, CO2 extracts, hydrosolst etc. Plants clearly have an advantage to our “extraction methods”..the real smell can never be reached… The indian sandalwood is indeed creamy and softer than the new caledonian one.
If anyone has a good sandalwood perfume to recommend I am happy to hear about your favourites as I think it is a perfect choice for autumn/winter time, when you need sth warm and comforting. I am also happy for any warm and woody and soft recommendations for winter, rather than warm and spicy (no cinnamon please). And I am happy to hear about such perfumes that are “affordable”(let’s say up to 100Eur per 50ml max., and hopefully samples are available somewhere…) and not too sugary sweet. Thanks !!!
P.S I am currently able to wear amber perfumes. In summer I find them disgusting, but somehow the drop of temperature really changes my love/hate relationship with certain bottles. November 13, 2015 at 3:19pm
Tomate Farcie: Chanel Bois des Isles, Diptyque Tam Dao, Serge Lutens Santal Majuscule, Maitre Parfumeur et Gantier Santal Noble –drier and more masculine but I love it. For ambers I adore L’Ambre des Merveilles. Parfum d’Empire Ambre Russe and Serge Lutens Ambre Sultan, Parfums DelRae Bois de Paradis is another favorite November 13, 2015 at 3:39pm
Tomate Farcie: I didn’t do too well on affordable. . . If you like ambergris Balmain Ambre Gris is usually pretty affordable as is Prada L’Eau Ambrée. I don’t know if Aroma M is found where you are but I really like Geisha Noire in the oil form November 13, 2015 at 4:13pm
Surbhi: Vetiver extraordinare is one of my favorite sandalwood (price is on luxury side like all Malle) November 14, 2015 at 5:09pm
kayliz: I’ve just discovered Sandalwood / Santal by L’Orientaliste: the first perfume I’ve encountered that just smells like Indian sandalwood (with a hint of rum in the first hour, but that wears off). It’s a cheapie: 30 euros for 50ml. November 14, 2015 at 9:19pm
a.: hi joana, i don’t have a sandalwood perfume to recommend to you – though, i do suggest you try mysore sandalwood soap… delicious stuff, available at indian grocery stores! — i’m curious to learn, from where did you get the east indian sandalwood essential oil? i’d love to find a good source for it! November 22, 2015 at 5:25am
aromaology2015: Hello All
This may be an odd request but I am looking for a cooling perfume that could act as an aid to sooth headaches. When I am struck with a really bad headache, I usually feel over-heated with a lot of neck tension – this makes me long for a fragrance that provides a cold, refreshing, calming feeling. Currently, my go to perfumes when I have head and neck pain are Guerlain Herba Fresca and Serge Lutens Laine de Verre – the minty, coolness really help soothe the aches. Sometimes I use colognes such as Eau de Guerlain and 4711. I have been meaning to try Guerlain’s Eau de Cologne Impériale because I believe Guerlain created it for Empress Eugénie to help treat her migraines.
I would love to hear any perfume recommendations from Bois de Jasmin readers.
Thank you ? November 13, 2015 at 5:16pm
Lynley: I often get headaches too, with a lot of neck pain, so I understand and empathise. There are many times when a lot of my collection are just no-go’s because they feel suffocating and sharp.
So, headache scents: herbal scents seem to be ok usually, things like Diptyque Virgilio and Caron Yatagan.
Vetiver I find really soothing- Encre Noire is lovely and smooth but any vetiver based fragrance is ok. Terre or Voyage d’Hermes (Voyage isnt vetiver it’s more juniper/herbal to me and never bothers me).
Green scents that arent too heavy. No19 edt, Cristalle au Verte.
Most Hermes fragrances do well, including Sur le Nil and Apres la Mousson, and many Hermessences (Vetiver Tonka, Osmanthe Yunnan are my favourites).
Other cooling scents like Marc Jacobs Bang, and probably most things with a green/herbal/grassy feel I find the most soothing. November 13, 2015 at 8:51pm
aromaology2015: Hi Lynley – thank you so much for taking the time to provide such a comprehensive list of perfumes to try. I do love vetiver and regularly reach for Sycomore or Timbuktu – I hadn’t thought about their cooling properties until you mentioned it…I’m still in the early years of my perfume passion where I am trying and loving so many perfumes but don’t yet have the knowledge to know, or language to describe, why I like the perfumes I like. I have also sampled, and liked, all of the Hermes and Chanel ones you mentioned but I will test again when I have a headache and will report back on their ability to cool and soothe.
You also got me thinking about gin fragrances, and their ability to cool, when you mentioned juniper – I like Penhaligons Juniper Sling but the lasting power is poor on my skin. Have you tried Lubin’s Gin Fizz? I haven’t yet but it was recommended to me by Thomas Fontaine (Perfumer at Jean Patou) when I was lucky enough to visit the Osmotheque this summer. I would be interested in hearing views on the current formulation.
Thank you! November 14, 2015 at 5:41am
kayliz: Your post immediately made me think of L’Humaniste by Frapin — I think it must be the thyme in it that produces the cooling effect. November 14, 2015 at 3:52am
Cornelia Blimber: Headache, migraine, it’s terrible. I know. My favourites when i suffer:
Nuit Etoiée, Goutal
Eau de Mûre, maître parfumeur
And shalimar, but that’s very personal. To me it is comforting (edt). November 14, 2015 at 5:56am
Cornelia Blimber: Etoilée, sorry! November 14, 2015 at 5:57am
aromaology2015: Thank you Cornelia. You prompted me to read more about Nuit Étoilée and I am now intrigued – mint, pine, fir…this sounds wonderful.
Eau de Mûre also has a very interesting mix of notes. I will definitely test these and report back. November 14, 2015 at 7:14am
aromaology2015: Thank you Kayliz – I hadn’t come across L’Humaniste before but have just now spent the past hour reading/watching reviews, as you do! I am really looking forward to trying this now as it very much appeals – I had mentioned Juniper Sling and Gin Fizz in my comments above to Lynley and L’Humaniste seems to have many of the same qualities. Thank you for taking the time to respond – I will report back this perfume’s restorative powers when treating headaches. November 14, 2015 at 6:31am
kayliz: Please do, and good luck! November 14, 2015 at 9:22pm
George: I would try some green tea fragrances- Bulgari’s and also Elizabeth Arden’s- Eau Dynamisante by Clarins, and Angeliques Sous La Pluie by Malle. November 14, 2015 at 6:23am
aromaology2015: Thank you for your suggestions George. I haven’t tried Angelique Sous La Pluie yet but started reading up on it now – it sounds very interesting. I really like the idea of green tea fragrances so will definitely sample these too and will report back. ;o) November 14, 2015 at 1:38pm
Hamamelis: Hi Aromaology, I am suffering from migraines and have a few scents that help; Frederic Fekkai, a very fresh orange blossom, soothing and cooling. A cool vetiver, Vetiver Extraordinaire (Frederic Malle), Eau du Sud (Annick Goutal) which is similar to Clarins Eau Dynamisante but longer lasting. Hope it helps! November 14, 2015 at 6:55am
aromaology2015: Many thanks Hamamelis. Is it Femme Fekkai Sensuelle that you mean? I have just read some rave reviews and it sounds beautiful. I love vetiver so I definitely need to try the FM soon. I have been meaning to sample Annick Goutal so will put Eau du Sud on the list. I’ll report back once I try out how these perfumes help soothe headaches. November 14, 2015 at 2:03pm
Hamamelis: Yes it is Sensuelle, as far as I know the only Fekkai perfume, I think it is a haircare brand. It is discontinued but still available in the Netherlands where I live. Good luck! November 14, 2015 at 2:22pm
katherine: I’d recommend some from the Cartier line of “Les Heures de Parfum”. There’s III – an aromatic caress of fresh, gentle green notes (lavender, verbena, thyme and rosemary), and VI – L’Heure Brillante – an energetic cocktail of lemon and gin notes, enhanced by a dash of aldehydes (descriptions excerpted from the Cartier website). There’s another but I can’t remember the number – it’s higher than VI. These are quite pricey.
There’s also Frederic Malle’s Bigarade Concentree which is soothing and uplifting at the same time. It smells like orange zest/rind! Per the FM website – a novel bitter orange essence. Good luck! November 14, 2015 at 10:52pm
aromaology2015: Thanks Katherine. Reading about the Cartier ones now and they both sound really appealing – will definitely try to sample these. I know the FM one is available in Ireland now so hope to try that soon. ? November 15, 2015 at 5:48pm
Mia: You already got lots of great suggestions from this experienced community. Just adding that rosemary (as essential oil which imo does not smell nice) has really helped in severe headaches. Maybe it could also help as a note and/or accord. Check out e.g. notes in Fragrantica? Hope you get help! November 15, 2015 at 12:38am
aromaology2015: Thank you for the tip Mia – I will start looking into perfumes with a prominent rosemary note – I quite like the EO. ? November 15, 2015 at 6:11pm
Mia: You are very welcome. It would be interesting to know in future whether you found some great rosemary based perfume, and did it help you with the aches – in addition to the general lifting effect of being wonderfully scented! November 16, 2015 at 12:13am
Solanace: Piketty and Rouge automatique. S2 S2
(Got my mom this book and a Lush shampoo for her birthday.) November 14, 2015 at 3:13am
Solanace: Talk about Guerlain fetishism! November 14, 2015 at 3:14am
Surbhi: I am looking for a woodsy / oud / spice perfume for winter. I love Musc Ravageur.
I wear Eau de magnolia, la tulipe or light blue to work.
I really like the original poison. If only I can find a bottle. November 14, 2015 at 4:56pm
katherine: Perhaps I shouldn’t mention it since it’s discontinued. But I love it. Le Labo created a fresh woodsy scent for Anthropologie “Chant de Bois” Unique and gets compliments. November 14, 2015 at 10:59pm
Figuier: Indochine by Parfumerie Generale is great for winter – not oudy as such, but spicy and woody for sure. November 15, 2015 at 3:08pm
elin: I’m in the market for a perfume with power. Even though a woman at my local Sephora attempted to tell me that, to her, I smelled amazing in floral scents, I’ve never found that to be the case, personally.
I’ve always been much more interested in men’s fragrances because they were spicy and woody. While I have, and sometimes do still wear, cologne, I would like to find a women’s fragrance to suit my wants.
I used to wear Burberry Brit religiously, but it doesn’t seem the same to me lately. My current favorite scent is quite possibly Burberry’s London for Men, but in my attempt to find a feminine/masculine perfume, I was directed to Elizabeth and James Nirvana Black. It was also suggested that I try Thierry Mugler’s Alien, which I’m enjoying as well, even over the more popular Angel. But I don’t feel like either are worthy of signature scent status, perhaps because they are too new.
Recently I tried Boudicca’s Wode and loved it, as it was spicy and smelled a bit like the forest, but I’m not sure it would be a smell that’s right for the whole year. I’d like something classic with staying power, that is womanly and not girly, but that feels at home among men as well.
Thanks for your help! November 14, 2015 at 6:20pm
Surbhi: Try Tom Ford’s fragrances. Also, Odin no 12. November 14, 2015 at 7:44pm
Jackie: Elin, I HIGHLY recommend Etat Libre d’Orange’s Fat Electrician. Quirky name, quirky marketing story, but absolutely perfect non-gendered fragrance, IMO. Complex and unusual but not weird or off-putting. I can’t get enough of it (you can buy a nice little ELO sample set on Sephora website right now). November 15, 2015 at 11:52am
AnnieA: Jackie, I’ll see your Fat Electrician and raise you a Rien! That can last through a couple of washes on clothes and 24 hours on skin. It’s in the sample kit too, I believe. November 18, 2015 at 2:07pm
Jackie: Ooh, reading the notes for Rien, I’ve got to revisit it. I tried them all briefly when I first got the sample set and was so sideswiped by Fat Electrician I kind of forgot about the others. (My 8 year old, a real “nose” whom I’ve mentioned before on this blog, begged me to buy a bottle, so I did! ;)) Thanks for the reminder, Annie. November 21, 2015 at 7:50am
Karen (A): Frederic Malle’s Une Fleur de Cassie is womanly, lasts, and is a good “power” perfume – unusual and not one you encounter frequently. Just give it time to settle before making any judgments. Amouage Lyric or Gold for Women are ones that you may want to try.
These aren’t really spicy (at all!), but are grown-up perfumes that to me convey self-assurance and comfort with oneself. Also was not sure if by “home among men” you mean a man can wear it, or you are wearing it while around men, so apologies if I’m off base with these suggestions – was going with the power, longevity and woman ideas. November 16, 2015 at 5:59am
Katherine: Elin, I’m unfamiliar with the Burberry’s you mentioned but I might suggest Portrait of a Lady (aka PoaL by Frederic Malle) – strong rose and patchouli elements but men also wear it (see Victoria’s review for a much more articulate and meaningful description). There’s also Coromandel and Sycomore from the Chanel Exclusif’s line. Another is Le Baiser du Dragon (Cartier). Happy hunting. November 16, 2015 at 7:37am
Michelle Peek: Have you tried Bottega Veneta? December 3, 2015 at 12:03pm
Brock: Are there any perfumes that still use real civet or castoreum? (I had it in my mind that maybe Amouage did, but cannot be sure.) Does anyone know?
Thank you! November 14, 2015 at 9:29pm
Nina Z: No, because those are animal products that are no longer allowed in perfumes. Or no longer used for animal cruelty reasons. Sometimes Aftelier natural perfumes include them because Mandy Aftel searches very old natural essences. Otherwise you will have to track down vintage perfumes for this. Jicky and Shocking, for example, have a lot of civet.
Amouage Ubar has civet but I’m sure it is synthetic civet. Maybe that is what you were thinking of? November 14, 2015 at 10:01pm
Nina Z: Yes, Aftelier Secret Garden has natural civet. I have been to Mandy’s house and talked to her about her perfume organ. So I know she tracks down old essences that are no longer made to use in her all natural perfumes. (It happens we live near each other.) November 14, 2015 at 10:07pm
Brock: Thank you very much! November 15, 2015 at 3:44am
Nina Z: Aftelier Secret Garden has real civet and Cuir Gardenia has real castoreum. November 14, 2015 at 10:10pm
Lizbee: I’ve just discovered that I like tuberose, and I’m looking to add an elegant fragrance that features it to my list of faves, which features a lot of Iris – Misia, 31 Rue Cambon, no. 19. Then there are my other new faves, Mohur and Trayee and OPARDU. Any suggestions for something featuring tuberose? November 15, 2015 at 1:44am
orsetta: well, some of my personal faves:
the classic & iconic tuberose – Robert Piguet Fracas – and it’s fully worth its status IMO.
then there’s FM Carnal Flower (my big love, the name says it all)
SL Tubereuse Criminelle – camphory tuberose
beatifully elegant and smooth EL Tuberose Gardenia
and let’s not forget about Givenchy Amarige – nuclear tuberose ;-D November 15, 2015 at 3:47am
kayliz: I’d pick out Carnal Flower, Estee Lauder Tuberose Gardenia and Versace Couture Tuberose, which has a cool elegance I found unusual and surprising. November 15, 2015 at 5:34am
Lizbee: Thank you, Kayliz. Into my STC shopping cart, they go! November 15, 2015 at 12:29pm
Cornelia Blimber: second all Orsetta’s choices, and suggesting:
-FM Beyond Love (rich)
–
Tubéreuse MPG (beautiful balance between rich tuberose and a green note)
Juicy Couture (light).
There is a beautiful tuberose note in J’Adore L’Absolu. November 15, 2015 at 5:42am
Cornelia Blimber: And I love Michael by M.Kors because it is the only perfume on which I was complimented. Lots of tuberose. Very strong. November 15, 2015 at 5:45am
Lizbee: Another great list. Thank you, Cornelia. I’m looking forward to exploring all these different facets of tuberose. November 15, 2015 at 12:33pm
orsetta: oh yes, Cornelia – also Beyond Love! this one is a stunner! November 15, 2015 at 11:40am
Lizbee: Thank you, Orsetta! Great list. Hopefully I’ll find true love in one (or more). ? November 15, 2015 at 12:27pm
Chris: Got a laugh out of your comment on Amarige, I love it but only wear it in the winter; it smells like Christmas to me and it seems too strong the rest of the year. I have been wearing Sung by Alfred Sung for about 15-20 years as my summer perfume; I love it; I bought 2 bottles when I found it was discontinued. I can’t seem to find something I like for fall & spring; I want a not-too-heavy woodsy/spicy/floral for fall (close to Samsara, I liked Venezia but they discontinued that, maybe not quite as strong) & a lighter green floral for spring, but not cloying or crystalline.
Suggestions would be appreciated. November 27, 2015 at 3:22pm
Hamamelis: Hiram Green’s Moonbloom. Soft petals! November 15, 2015 at 7:04am
Lizbee: Thank you, Hamamelis. Into the cart it goes! I’ve had my eye on this one. I’m looking forward to giving it a try. November 15, 2015 at 12:36pm
Hamamelis: I am getting to know his work after receiving samples when I bought his latest, Voyage. No tuberose in there but it is a gorgeous calming enveloping scent. November 15, 2015 at 1:32pm
Tati: How do you like Voyage? I blind bought and am eagerly waiting for it. November 15, 2015 at 2:51pm
Hamamelis: Tati I love it. It is such a calming scent, at least on me, and it has a very peaceful presence. It reminds me a little bit of Kenzo’s Jungle Elephant, but in the softest lightest possible way. I emailed Hiram Green, to compliment him on this fragrance, and to check if it contains clove (or cardamon) and to my surprise he wrote back it lavender is one of the main herbal notes in Voyage (I did not pick that out at all!). Hope to hear back how you like it, against my olfactory principles I blindbought this too, and it turned out really well, pffff. November 15, 2015 at 3:12pm
Megan: Andy Tauer’s Sotto la Luna Tuberose is very unique. It’s a spicy take on tuberose, is unisex, and has excellent longevity. November 15, 2015 at 11:19am
Lizbee: Thanks, Megan! Longevity is definitely a plus in a love relationship with a fragrance. I’ll check it out. November 15, 2015 at 12:50pm
Aurora: Wonderful recommendations already. I will add Annick Goutal’s Gardenia Passion for a pairing of Tubereuse and Gardenia. It’s a classic beautiful rendition of these 2 flowers, so is the Michael Kors already mentioned by Cornelia. November 15, 2015 at 12:14pm
Lizbee: Of course, yes. It shouldn’t surprise me to see an AG on this list. I haven’t tried this one, but I sure will. Thank you for the recommendation, Aurora. November 15, 2015 at 12:53pm
Katherine: Lizbee, I’m with Orsetta on the Carnal Flower and Fracas recommendation Both gorgeous with great sillage and longevity. November 15, 2015 at 5:52pm
Karen (A): Is this Katherine of Northern Virginia, trying to connect and meet up at Arielle’s? If so, Arielle misplaced your phone number but has mine – give her a call and fingers crossed we can figure out a time to meet and smell some beautiful fragrances and have a latte (or tea)! November 16, 2015 at 6:03am
Katherine: Yes it’s me. I’ll give Arielle another call. Look forward to sniffing and sipping with you! November 16, 2015 at 7:10am
Karen (A): Yay! November 16, 2015 at 8:38am
Michelle Peek: L’artisa Parfumeur’s Nuit De Tubereuse is lovely. I find it unique. December 3, 2015 at 12:10pm
Elena: Can anyone recommend a perfume similar to Escencia de Duende by J. Del Pozo. I’ve worn it since high school, and although I still love it, I find the EDT strength doesn’t hold up too well heat. I’d love to find something similar in an EDP formulation, if possible. Does anyone know of anything similar? November 15, 2015 at 2:57am
Aurora: Roberto Cavalli Aqua in the turquoise bottle according to Fragrances of the World, or L’Artisan Parfumeur Cote d’Amour; give them a try these 2 houses have well made parfumes, the only problem is for longevity the Cavally is an eau and L’Artisan is notorious for its lack of staying power. It’s a long time since I’ve seen Duende mentioned, it’s great you mention it as your favorite, it was so popular in the 90s. November 15, 2015 at 12:36pm
Alouetta: I’m a bit obsessed with petrichor at the moment and am wondering if people know of any perfumes that make use of this. Any ideas? I have a small bottle of Mitti Attar already (amaaazing), but I’d like to see how rain on earth is rendered in a more complex perfume. Thanks! November 15, 2015 at 7:39am
aromaology2015: Hi Alouetta,
Have you tried Hermes Un Jardin Apres Le Monsoon? November 15, 2015 at 11:57am
Aurora: It’s a lovely quest Alouetta. The mineral dry-down of Eau de Rochas always reminds me of just after the rain, it’s true especially of the vintage one, also Terre d’Hermes has a lovely earthy aspect to it, the Jardin suggestion from Aromaology is a lovely one, try all the Jardins in fact, Le Nil is my favorite. November 15, 2015 at 12:47pm
Alouetta: Thank you for the reminder! I’ve had Un Jardin Le Monsoon on my to-buy list for a while now. November 15, 2015 at 5:50pm
Alouetta: Oops sorry that reply was for aromology!
But I’ll have a look for Eau de Rochas, thank you. November 15, 2015 at 5:52pm
aromaology2015: **Accidentally posted my reply as a new comment below so adding again here**
I’ve also seen many comments online about Demeter Thunderstorm and Lalique’s Encre Noire being good examples of petrichor but I haven’t sampled those two personally. I really like the Hermes. I am really intrigued to see what perfumes others recommend.
Good luck ;o) November 15, 2015 at 12:18pm
Hamamelis: I second all great suggestions already made, and will add Annick Goutal’s Un Matin d’Orage. Victoria wrote a lovely review. November 15, 2015 at 1:36pm
Alouetta: I’m going to read about this now. Thanks! November 16, 2015 at 2:28am
Hedwig: When I first smelled essential oil of Vetiver, it said “petrichor” to me quite firmly.
Is it just me, or do others also smell vetiver this way? If so, something with vetiver as a main note might be a good bet. November 15, 2015 at 3:39pm
Hamamelis: No, it is not only you Hedwig, I can relate to petrichor in vetiver, so I think it is an excellent recommendation. A vetiver I am very fond of is Vetiver Extraordinaire by Frederic Malle. November 15, 2015 at 5:04pm
Alouetta: Maybe this is why I love vetiver so much. So earthy and cooling. November 15, 2015 at 5:48pm
Alouetta: I should have mentioned earlier that CB I Hate Perfume’s Black March is one I’d like to smell but I can’t seem to get it shipped to Australia. Would love to know if anyone’s tried that one before I resort to drastic measures. November 15, 2015 at 6:03pm
Sara: Hi everyone. I’m looking for a beautiful late autumn scent. Some of recent regulars in my perfume wardrobe include:
– Cacharel Amor Amor (love this one–it has been my go-to lately, but I’d like to find something a little less fruity)
– L’Artisan Mure et Musc (it sometimes gives me a headache, which is unfortunate, because it’s a lovely perfume)
– Narcisco Rodriguez for her (looking for something with a little less musk)
– Ginestet botrytis (looking for something a little less sweet)
On a side note, I have been an avid follower of this blog for three years (ever since I was on the hunt for a perfect scent to wear to my wedding), and this is my first post to a “recommend me a perfume.” Thanks in advance for any suggestions! November 15, 2015 at 10:00am
Victoria: Have you tried the new Narciso (in a white bottle)? It’s less musky and has a beautiful drydown.
I also love Bottega Veneta Eau de Parfum for its warm plum and leather notes. It’s not overly sweet either. Your tastes are so diverse, and it’s fun to think of different possibilities for you. 🙂 November 15, 2015 at 1:12pm
Sara: Thank you, Victoria! I haven’t tried either one, but plan to now 🙂 November 15, 2015 at 2:05pm
Aurora: Hello Sara. I find myself reaching for the following at this time of year: Elixir des Merveilles (a sticky, salty orange) there is also Eau des Merveilles which is fresher but not as long-lasting and l’Ambre des Merveilles is very popular here but it may be a little too much on the sweet side for you, Chanel No19 EDP less austere than the EDT and longer lasting, Cartier Baiser Vole (a green lily) I prefer the EDT and the Essence de Parfum but there is also an EDP, try them all if you can, Moschino by Moschino in the gold box is complex spicy great in the fall and winter and won’t break the bank, Shalimar Parfum Initial and Parfum Initial l’Eau (these 2 are discontinued but still widely available on line), Jour d’Hermes has a great grapefruit note which keeps it from being to sweet, and I have a craving for Annick Goutal’s Sables and Dior Dune at this time of year. I’m sure there will be other recommendations. I’m curious: what perfume did you choose for your wedding? November 15, 2015 at 1:19pm
Sara: Thank you for all of your suggestions, Aurora. I do where Eau des Merveilles from time to time and have been meaning to try Ambre des Merveille. My mom wears the original Shalimar. I’m curious–how’d I the two that you mention compare to the original? And my grandmother wore Dune 🙂 I’m thinking of picking up a bottle for the memories. I ended up wearing Guerlain Idylle. Not much of a statement maker, but pretty nonetheless… November 15, 2015 at 2:10pm
Aurora: You’re most welcome Sara, how very nice of you. Oh, Idylle is subtle but very pretty indeed, all the perfume you listed, I like very much too.
Now the 2 Shalimar Parfum Initial have not much to do with the original at all, except for the bergamot blast at first,they are iris centered, so cool perfumes. I especially like PI l’Eau as it is so versatile, suits fall, suits summer and on my skin it is one of my longest lasting eaux with a beautiful just on the right side of sweetness drydown. November 16, 2015 at 9:10am
Hamamelis: Hi Sara, second all suggestions made, here are a few others: have you tried any of the other l’Artisans such as Dzongkha (one of my favourites), Traversee du Bosphore or Safran Troublant? Have you tried something different to what you have like Chanel 5 Eau Premiere? I find myself using it more in Autumn. Another very different scent you could try is Annick Goutal’s Mon Parfum Cherie Par Camille, another take on plum, now in an accord with iris, violet and patchouli. Very wonderful in Autumn too. November 15, 2015 at 2:50pm
aromaology2015: I’ve also seen many comments online about Demeter Thunderstorm and Lalique’s Encre Noire being good examples of petrichor but I haven’t sampled those two personally. I really like the Hermes. I am really intrigued to see what perfumes others recommend.
Good luck ;o) November 15, 2015 at 12:14pm
Lady Dedlock: Hi what is the best gardenia soliflore out there? November 15, 2015 at 1:55pm
Hamamelis: Annick Goutal’s Un Matin d’Orage is a very good gardenia! November 15, 2015 at 2:40pm
Aurora: Oh yes, UMd’O is lovely. The thing with gardenia is that it usually comes with jasmine and/or tubereuse. My favorite gardenia-centric fragrance is l’Arquiste Boutonniere No 7, I was citing AG Gardenia Passion for the tubereuse request, there is also Marc Jacobs (for her) and I know Chanel has one called Gardenia but I’ve never tried it. Also, have you already tried the one from Caswell Massey? November 15, 2015 at 3:55pm
Aurora: Oh, and I’m not sure where you are located (I’m in the UK) but Penhaligon’s has a Gardenia as well. November 15, 2015 at 4:09pm
kayliz: I love Van Cleef & Arpels Gardenia Petale: understated, elegant, and yet there’s something very comforting about it.
One I’ve only smelled so far as a wax sample: Une Voix Noire. Victoria reviews it here: https://boisdejasmin.com/2012/09/serge-lutens-une-voix-noire-perfume-review.html
Am sorely tempted to half-blind buy — if it’s anything like the wax sample, I’m seriously smitten. November 15, 2015 at 5:42pm
Katherine: I’ll second Kayliz’ recommendation for Gardenia Petale. Gorgeous. November 15, 2015 at 6:08pm
Polinia: My favorite gardenia is by Chanel – no takings on tuberose, sweet and succulent. Also Isabey has nice gardenia and Andy Tauer – very special and interesting one. November 19, 2015 at 5:15pm
a.: not a soliflore, but i recommend estee lauder private collection tuberose gardenia. it’s gorgeous – creamy and amazing. despite tuberose being first in the name, it smells more “gardenia” to me than many supposed gardenias, e.g. chanel gardenia, which i recently sampled – i think it’s more jasmine than gardenia (also, it smells very drugstore-perfume to me! not what i was expecting from chanel.) November 22, 2015 at 6:09am
Hedwig: Hello!
I’d like some recommendations for feminine sandalwoods and ambers. I really liked Serge Lutens’ Santal Majuscule and was intrigued by Ambre Sultan, but they felt too masculine for me, which I think is caused by my perception of their “dryness”. Are there similar concoctions with a “lush”, feminine feel?
P.S. I love Lutens’ Arabie, my first ever scent that isn’t fresh and floral. November 15, 2015 at 2:26pm
Hamamelis: Hi Hedwig, have you tried l’Ambre des Merveilles? It is a soft blankety feminine amber. I love Annick Goutal’s Ambre Fetiche, but it may be too austere for you too. A feminine perfume with a lovely sandelwood note is Ormonde Jayne’s Woman, but it is very different from the Lutens ones. Maybe too expensive but Chanel’s Bois des Isles has a gorgeous sandalwood note. Lastly you could try Hiram Green’s new scent, Voyage, a soft, calming, interesting amber. It is a limited edition, so maybe it will not be around long. Good luck! November 15, 2015 at 2:45pm
Hedwig: Thank you for the suggestions, Hamamelis! I smelled Annick Goutal’s Ambre Fetiche and liked it, but thought it was a bit austere, as you say. Though maybe it really needs to go on my skin, not just paper.
I’m new to perfumes, and I have not tried many mainstream brands, not because I am a niche snob, but simply because the sheer number of mainstream offerings is paralysing! I look at the rows upon rows of different shapes, colours, and mysterious names, and freeze with indecision! November 15, 2015 at 3:35pm
orsetta: Hi, Hedwig, you could also try Alahine from Teo Cabanel – it’s a lush, opulent, baroque amber! November 15, 2015 at 11:08pm
Tiamaria: HI Hedwig, I second Bois Des Iles for a beautiful sandalwood. I also love Santal Carmin from Atelier Cologne though it may be too masculine. Dries Van Noten par Frederic Malle is what I am wearing most often at the moment. It has a strong sandalwood note with vanilla and some spice which smell a little like raw cookie dough to me. It is not a loud scent and I do need to spray more than I usually do but I find it very comforting on these cold wet November days! November 17, 2015 at 6:08am
Aurora: All great recommendations Hamamelis! I’m just adding Annick Goutal’s Sables, a caramelized amber, because I love it so much. November 15, 2015 at 3:58pm
Hamamelis: Hi Aurora, totally forgot about Sables, and I love it very much too. I am going to wear it to bed! It always makes me think of the early morning safari’s I had the privilege of experiencing in the South African Bush, when it was winter there (August here). Sweet, sandy, moist. It is such an unusual scent! November 15, 2015 at 5:02pm
Aurora: Sweet perfumed dreams Hamamelis! Sables is wonderful. Hope you are feeling better. I’m so impressed (and a little jealous) with your having been on a safari. November 15, 2015 at 5:45pm
kayliz: Have you come across Ambre Sublime by Stendhal? It’s a lovely soft tonka amber. My other amber fave is Alambar, which is chocolatey (and therefore very feminine;) ). November 15, 2015 at 5:47pm
orsetta: hi Hedwig, you could also try Alahine from Teo Cabanel – it’s a lush, opulent, baroque amber! November 15, 2015 at 11:11pm
Hedwig: Thanks everyone, I’m writing down all these excellent ideas! Mmm, lush, opulent, chocolatey, caramelised – can’t wait!
😀 November 16, 2015 at 3:03am
Cornelia Blimber: A very refined amber is Sublime by Patou. Certainly not masculin! November 17, 2015 at 4:58pm
SilverMoon: Already many lovely ambers mentioned, but here are three excellent ones that did not appear. All are worth trying, but my favourite is really warm, autumnal and a bit animalic – Perfumerie Generale L’Ombre Fauve. I rarely see it mentioned here, not sure why. Also lovely are Montale Blue Amber and Reminiscence Ambre. November 21, 2015 at 2:31pm
Natalie: Hi,
My favourite perfume is Serge Luten’s ‘Fille en Aiguilles’ however I was looking to add a bit of variety but have struggled to find another perfume I like.
The closest I have come is Estée Lauder’s ‘Sensuous & Sensuous Noir’ but they end up smelling metallic on my skin.
Can someone recommend something along the similiar lines that is not Serge Luten’s
Greatly appreciated. November 15, 2015 at 3:06pm
Aurora: I’m not sure but have you tried Annick Goutal’s Nuit Etoilee in EDP? It has that woody pine needles feel of the Lutens. November 15, 2015 at 4:06pm
Cornelia Blimber: Second Nuit Etoilée, Edt as well.
And maybe Zagorsk by Comme des Garçons. November 15, 2015 at 4:36pm
Natalie: Thank you November 21, 2015 at 12:04am
orsetta: i fully agree with Nuit Etoilee recommendation; but maybe you could also try Clinique Wrappings (if you can find it…) November 15, 2015 at 11:24pm
Indigo: Nuit Etoilée is lovely but the sillage is much lower than Fille en Aiguilles.
Have you tried Elixir des Merveilles? This, to me, is not unlike the SL, but had fresh fruit instead of stewed and different woods… November 19, 2015 at 3:33pm
CristinaM: Hello everyone! I’m looking for a fragrance to wear at high level business meetings, where I am usualy the only woman in a room full of lawyers, CPAs etc.
Something not too feminine, not too floral, not fruity, defintely not oriental…but not for men either (you don’t want to smell like them!)
somebody recommended 31 Rue Cambon but like the other Chanels – except Coco (definitely not OK for office) it does not last on me for more than 10 minutes…
I was thinking that iris would be ok but a lot of people find it too strong…
any suggestions?
I would like to smell pleasant but professional – thanks!! November 16, 2015 at 10:41am
Hamamelis: Hi Christina, have you tried Chanel 19, if it doesn’t last, in perfume? Stands up to any lawyer! Or Cristalle? Chanel 5 Eau Premiere?
Annick Goutal’s Heure Exquise is a very beautiful iris/galbanum/rose/ sandalwood, sometimes compared to no 19, lawyer proof I think. Or…maybe a little spritz of Chamade? November 16, 2015 at 1:34pm
Hamamelis: Forgot: Hiris might be a good one to try on the iris front. November 16, 2015 at 1:35pm
CristinaM: Thanks Hamamelis great suggestions! gotta tame those lawyers :-)!! Will try Heure Exquise today, I tried it quickly and didn’t think much of it but need to give it another try. November 17, 2015 at 2:21am
Hamamelis: Do try it, there are times when I think why bother trying any other perfumes and wear Heure Exquise all the time! I also thought of Infusion d’Iris for you but that is possibly to tame to tame them, Heure Exquise to my nose has all it takes to take on whatever needs taking on! November 17, 2015 at 3:05am
SophieC: SophieC Hi there as a lawyer I find at this time of year Chanel 5 EDP works well, it does seem to come over as very professional. 19 EDP is always good as well – intellectual and elegant with a good amount of backbone. November 17, 2015 at 10:37am
Therése: Hello!
I would like to thank Angeldiva for telling me about Caldey Island Lavender Perfume oil. I bought it and now it’s a new favourite. Initially I wore it to bed (for the soothing effects of lavender) but I find myself reaching for it often now. It’s a very pleasant lavender.
I would also like to thank Kayliz for recommending “a proper graveyard fragrance”, Relique D’Amour from L.Legrand. Great scent! November 16, 2015 at 10:45am
kayliz: Oh, I’m so pleased you like it, thanks for getting back in touch! November 18, 2015 at 2:44am
May: Hi Therese,
I remember you from Pinterest! You were in my group, “How is Your 2013?”:
https://www.pinterest.com/eliathecreative/how-is-your-2013/
Nice to see we have the same taste in this perfume blog! November 21, 2015 at 2:02am
May: 1) What does everyone think about the Elizabeth Taylor perfumes? Esp. the Diamonds and Emeralds perfume? I saw the full size in a store near me for $14.
2) Can you recommend perfumes that are close to Si by Armani? How does Daisy and Prada Candy compare to Si? November 16, 2015 at 10:52pm
Aurora: I’ll stick to question no 1 as I am unfamiliar with Si. I absolutely love White Diamonds but it is strickly an after hours perfume for me as it is such a BIG perfume. I don’t know Diamond and Emeralds but I would recommend W.D. without hesitating, as well as Black Pearls. My advice would be to test before you buy even if it’s a steal as I find Elizabeth Taylor’s perfumes even here in the UK for very reasonable prices. November 17, 2015 at 7:49am
Isabelle: I’m looking for something powdery and retro – but NOT too girly.
Have loved Kenzo Flower and Chloe Love, but they’re a bit too feminine for what I’m currently after.
I don’t care about marketing, but don’t exactly want any mainstream fresh fresh and nothing but fresh – kind of notes.
Any thoughts? November 18, 2015 at 7:41am
Aurora: Hello Isabelle: My recommendation would be Dior Homme Intense, powdery iris and vanilla; it doesn’t matter that it is marketed for men, Victoria taught me the expression a ‘lui pour elle’ fragrance from Luca Turin. Because otherwise I can only come up with Guerlain l’Heure Bleue – the queen of powdery scents, Chanel, Misia would be too sweet I think, Frederic Malle, Lipstick Rose might be a contender or Prada Infusion d’Iris Absolue – the little sister of l’Heure Bleue or Esprit d’Oscar. I hope you will find your perfect powdery scent soon. November 18, 2015 at 4:26pm
Aurora: And I’ve just thought of another one powdery but not overtly girly: Chanel No 19 Poudre, give it a shot, perhaps you’ll like it. November 19, 2015 at 5:52am
Victoria: I commented before I saw your response. We’re on the same wavelength. 🙂 November 19, 2015 at 2:23pm
Aurora: Yes we are! It means much that you approve. November 19, 2015 at 3:24pm
Victoria: What about something like Chanel No 19 Poudree? It’s mildly powdery and not very sweet. November 19, 2015 at 2:21pm
rachel: HELP!! Please I am looking for something like Clarins Dynaminte, sorry about my spelling! I just love it but I am craving something with a little more warmth and depth. Maybe a little more feminine. Any suggestions??? My favorite evening only scent is Shalimar body cream. Thanks for your advice! R November 18, 2015 at 8:40pm
Aurora: Like you I like Eau Dynamisante very much. You might give a shot to either Dior Escale a Portofino, Tom Ford Neroli Portofino, or in the Acqua di Parma line: Essenza di Colonia, Colonia assoluta, and Blu Mediterraneo Cipresso di Toscana (for the cypress note you find in Eau Dynamisante). All 5 are more intense colognes. Also, perhaps Hermes Un Jardin en Mediterranee but you have to like fig for this one. Atelier Cologne also makes long lasting colognes I don’t know if you know this line? Eau de Guerlain might also be a good fit or is it too light for you? Or – but you may have done so already – experiment with Eau de Shalimar, the new Eau de Cologne de Shalimar and since you like the body cream, you might layer them and find the combination you like best.
Lastly here in the UK there is a quite wonderful fragrance fresh, with many of the notes of ED but long-lasting, Liz Earle Botanical Essence No 1. November 19, 2015 at 6:37am
Hamamelis: Hi Rachel, Annick Goutal’s Eau du Sud is very similar to Eau Dynamisante, but warmer and much longer lasting! November 20, 2015 at 5:39am
Katherine: It’s been awhile since I used Dynamissante but you might try Eau de Patou (Jean Patou), Eau D’Ete (Parfums de Nicolai), L’hadrien (Annick Goutal) andChanel 5 Premiere which has a lot of citrus but is more perfumey than the other two. November 22, 2015 at 2:27pm
Rita: Hello! I usually wear a jasmine attar daily but lately am finding that I want something that combines the scent of jasmine with a green-smelling note. I’m very fond of Aesop’s geranium leaf-scented products and lately have been wearing the body cream with the attar but that’s not quite working out. I used to wear Bottega Veneta EDP & think I might try that again, but does anyone have any suggestions? Thank you! November 20, 2015 at 5:09pm
Victoria: If you like green jasmine, how about the appropriately named Miller Harris Jasmin Vert or Estee Lauder Jasmine White Moss? Or perhaps, even Chanel Cristalle Eau de Parfum? November 20, 2015 at 6:15pm
Karolina: Dear Victoria and all perfume lovers, could you please recommend me a soft and smooth leather perfume? I am looking for something warm, close to skin, more suede than hardcore leather. Without a strong animalic notes. The only fragrance with leather note that I own (and like very much) is Chanel No. 19 EdT, but I search for something less green. I have tried Cuir Velours by Naomi Goodsir, the name suggested exactly what I am looking for, but there was some sharp note (almost like urine) in it.
Thank you, K. November 22, 2015 at 9:30am
Cornelia Blimber: Hi Karolina, you could try:
Gomma by Etro
Daim Blond by Lutens
Or maybe Bottega Veneta.
Good luck! November 22, 2015 at 1:04pm
Hamamelis: Hi Karolina, here are some more to try, Hermes Cuir d’Ange, or Kelly Caleche, Cuir de Lancome (discontinued but still available), L’Artisan Parfumeur Traversee du Bosphore, and Chanel Eclusives 28 La Pausa has a soft leather note although it is primarily iris (it lasts very well on my skin but many perfumistas are not that fortunate). Cuir de Russie is well loved but I haven’t smelled it yet. Good luck! November 22, 2015 at 2:53pm
Victoria: Have you tried Hermes Cuir d’Ange? It’s from their Hermessence range, and it’s as close as it gets to your idea of leather. The downside is that it’s a little expensive. November 23, 2015 at 9:53am
Karolina: Thank you all for your suggestions! I will definitely get samples of all of the named (except Lancome, I am afraid, no longer available here). It is funny how the taste for perfumes develops and fluctuates. A year ago, I would say no leather for me, I don’t want to smell like a couch or a purse. Cuir de Russie is such a legend, I was discouraged by horse manure note mentioned by many reviewers, but I’ll have to test it myself. K. November 23, 2015 at 11:06am
D.Rita: Hello all! I’m fairly certain this will go unanswered since I’m a bit late to the game with this post…
Anyhow, I’m quite new to the world of scents. I was wondering if you had a daytime perfume recommendation for me, perhaps something similar to Tom Ford’s Black Orchid. I love it to death, but it’s far too heavy to wear every day, and I like to save it for special occasions and date nights.
Thank you! November 24, 2015 at 3:08pm
Victoria: Have you tried any of the flankers, Voile version or Velvet Orchid? November 24, 2015 at 3:23pm
D.Rita: Thanks for the reply!
I have tried the Velvet Orchid, as well as Violet Blonde, which I both like. I have not looked into the Voile version, but I shall do so.
Actually, I should have asked this instead: when you hear the word “gothic,” what perfumes are the first that come to mind?
I’m a visual person, so by gothic, I mean scents that invoke images of tobacco/smoke, black leather, old churches, warm sawdust, Maila Nurmi… or whatever comes to your mind, I’m interested to see what you will suggest!
I don’t know if Black Orchid can really be considered a “goth” smell, but it certainly is dark and compliments the aesthetic quite well.
Fellow goths have recommended Dior’s Poison, which I do like, as well as Muglier’s Angel and YSL’s Opium, which I both hated. Someone else told me to try Tokyo Milk’s scents, which are okay, but for some reason smell funky and very unpleasant when I’ve tried them on. I’ve also tried Muglier’s Alien, which I enjoy a lot, but it smells very “bland” once I put it on.
Typing this I’ve realized I don’t really care if a scent is more suitable for day or nighttime; since my aesthetic is purely black, I may as well go with a traditionally nighttime scent, hah.
Sorry I’m a pain in the butt, and I have no idea if what I just described will make any sense to you. Thanks again! November 24, 2015 at 7:11pm
Victoria: Etro Messe de Minuit is my top recommendation! I’d love to hear what you think of it (and there is a review of it on this site).
By the way, Black Orchid just came out in the Eau de Toilette version, so it might also be something to try. November 25, 2015 at 9:37am
a.: i’m similarly late to the game. i’ve read your blog, victoria, on and off for years, and i may have even commented back then, which would’ve been the mid-2000’s i think – but at that time, i couldn’t afford perfumes, really. now i can (conveniently enough, post-IFRA changes, sigh!) – and finally ordered a number of decants, through which i was able to ID the perfume my mother wore that most enchanted me – magie noire, by lancome.
i also realized upon wearing it that it was also, undeniably, the signature scent of one of my aunts. whom i love, but there’s just no way i could wear it now (even if i were to say, buy an old bottle off ebay). so my question is – what would folks recommend to someone who loves, but can’t wear, the old magie noire? November 25, 2015 at 12:23am
Victoria: I’d say that leathery or woody chypres in general might be a good area to explore. Even fragrances like Agent Provocateur or more subtle chypres like Chanel Cuir de Russie or 31 Rue de Cambon. They don’t smell like Magie Noire, nothing does, but they might hit the same spot. November 25, 2015 at 9:34am
a.: thank you for your recommendations, victoria! i have a decant of cuir de russie coming to me sometime soon. i’ll have to get one of 31 rue de cambon as well. i remember trying agent provocateur in their SF store when it first came out and liking it, but not being able to afford it at the time… i’ll have to test it out again! December 1, 2015 at 4:34am
a.: also: your comment reminds me that ages ago, i think sometime in late HS or early college, i somehow figured out that this family of frags called “chypres” was what i liked. but i’m somewhat shy/easily embarrassed, and not knowing how to say it prevented me from simply walking up to a fragrance counter and saying, “i like chypres! what do you have?” ? clearly i need to get over myself, as almost every fragrance i’ve ever liked has been at least partly a chypre. December 1, 2015 at 4:38am
Victoria: This site would save the day if you want to know how to pronounce French perfume names and terminology:
http://fragnameoftheday.blogspot.be/ December 1, 2015 at 11:48am
a.: ooh, thank you for the link! hmm… she doesn’t seem to have chypre, but maybe i just need to click around a bit more? — i did eventually learn how to say chypre – though it took a few years years and indeed, the advent of the internet so i could find a recording of it, though i don’t even remember where! 😉 (also, i eventually took some french classes, so i really have no excuse.)
the thing that gets me – this is where i’ve just got to get over myself – is the idea of walking up to the fragrance counter of a (US) mall dept. store and saying, “i like chypres, what do you recommend?” – i imagine either they won’t understand me, i’ll still mangle it, i’ll sound hoity-toity, or all of the above. ! like i said – so easily embarrassed! 😛
writing this, i’m realizing that my outsized fear of getting caught mispronouncing fancy french words is probably related to the first time i said “lingerie” out loud. which was as a small child, in a dept. store where i’d gotten lost, and the sales associate laughed and corrected 5-year-old me in a “oh, *honey*” sort of way. 😉 so funny how these things live on! December 1, 2015 at 9:13pm
Vickyd: New to this blog, but love the concept. Just reading the comments I am intrigued to try some new fragrances. I am excited by the new niche fragrances as well as classics. Frangrances I love are: Chanel No. 5, VC&A First, Sisley Eau du Soir, Creed imperial millisime, FM Portrait of a Lady, Cartier La Panthere. Any recommendations will be appreciated. Thanks in advance. December 7, 2015 at 8:47pm
Victoria: You have such diverse tastes, Vicky–a blend of classical and edgy. I recommend trying the new Sisley Soir d’Orient, since it’s itself a blend of styles you seem to like. Or Chanel No 22, another classical beauty. December 8, 2015 at 11:25am
Vickyd: Thanks so much for the suggestions. I will give them both a try. I really appreciate your response. December 8, 2015 at 10:22pm
Reina: I’m looking for a jasmine scent, but WITHOUT either musk or patchouli notes….any recommendations most appreciated…. December 11, 2015 at 2:20pm
Victoria: Serge Lutens A La Nuit doesn’t have a prominent musk note to me and no patchouli either. December 12, 2015 at 4:25am
Lisa: I just discovered this site and love it! Hope you can help me find a new fragrance. I’ve been wearing various Jo Malone scents for years (Nutmeg & Ginger; Wild Fig) and have grown tired of the line. I like herbaceous fragrances. Not a fan of water lily, which is often present in those. I love lemon as well.
Any recommendations? Thank you in advance! January 14, 2016 at 4:56pm
Victoria: Have you tried Atelier Cologne? The line includes many light fragrances (light but not dull) and it might be a good alternative to JM. January 15, 2016 at 4:47am
Chantelle Owens: I loved Premier Jour by Nina Ricci, but it was discontinued. Then I started wearing Essence de Duende by JPoso. I also like Japanese Cherry Blossom by Bath & Bodyworks.
I have a hard time finding perfumes that I like. I like soft, very feminine but lingering perfumes. I’m irritated by loud, crisp, or spicy.
I’ve tried Daisy by Marc Jacobs, Vera Wang by Vera Wang, Crystal Line, Fiori and She, but wasn’t too impressed.
Just wondering what you recommend? June 10, 2016 at 7:25pm
Victoria: This topic will reopen on Monday, so please post your question again in the new thread to get more responses. In the meantime, I think that you might like See by Chloe or Cacharel Amor Amor. They both have some fruit, but they’re also bright, effervescent florals. June 11, 2016 at 10:26am