Recommend Me a Perfume : August 2016

Every two years Brussels unrolls a carpet made of fresh flowers in its main square, the Grand Place, and I have written about my impressions of le Tapis de Fleurs in 2012. This year’s carpet is just as sumptuous, and its theme is Japan–the patterns are reminiscent of kimono embroidery. It’s a fine way to mark summer winding down.

On Bois de Jasmin we’re noting the end of summer vacations with our “Recommend Me a Perfume” thread. You can use this space to ask any questions about perfume, including fragrance recommendations, and of course, share any of your summer discoveries.

flowercarpet2016

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, all rights reserved

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260 Comments

  • Vanessa Amy: Hi! I’ve always had a love for fragrances but just recently I have fallen in love with the art of perfumery and the actual production of a fragrance and how it is developed and made. For a school project, I actually designed and created my own perfume, along with a name and design. I actually got a 31/32 on the project so I am quite pleased with that haha. I also am interested in the business and marketing side of perfumery, and would love to perhaps have a career in this in the future. (I’m still in school, of course) I was just wondering if you have any advice on how to get into the fragrance world and if there are any particular courses or jobs that would help me pursue my love of fragrances and perfumery? Thanks, love the blog. August 29, 2016 at 7:37am Reply

    • Emma: This is wonderful! Perfumery is so creative! May I ask where are you taking your course? August 29, 2016 at 10:14am Reply

      • Vanessa Amy: Well I’m from Australia and I have yet to decide on an appropriate Uni to go to as of now. August 29, 2016 at 5:33pm Reply

        • Emma: The school in Grasse is supposed to be good, but it is quite expensive and you would have to move there for at least a year.
          Myself I was considering a natural perfumery course. August 29, 2016 at 7:40pm Reply

    • Victoria: You might want to consider an internship at one of the big companies that make fragrance, Givaudan, IFF, Mane, Symrise, Firmenich. August 29, 2016 at 11:09am Reply

      • Vanessa Amy: Thanks ! August 29, 2016 at 5:28pm Reply

    • T. Matta: I am looking for a perfume and I don’t like anything so far, either too sweet or too “flowery”.
      Back in the 80’s I used Paloma Picasso and for special occasions I love Must de Cartier.
      Lately, I’ve been using Salvatore Ferragamo’s incanto, but I’m not crazy about it, it’s just not me.
      Please, help!!! September 15, 2016 at 9:54am Reply

  • Triciajo: Can anyone recommend a perfume similar to Chanel Coco, but not quite as overwhelming (to me)? It’s my husband’s favorite of my going-out-to-a-special-event perfumes, but, as my tastes have changed over the years, it’s starting to seem too “big” for me. August 29, 2016 at 7:50am Reply

    • Lizzy K.: Have you tried the eau de toilette? I find it much airier and thus more suitable for daytime wear. August 29, 2016 at 8:22am Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: Maybe a soft amber, like:

        Ambre Précieux, Maitre Parfumeur
        Shalimar eau de cologne
        Sublime (Patou), if you can find it

        Maybe you could like Black Jade by Lubin. Soft spicy, balsamic. August 29, 2016 at 8:36am Reply

        • Lizzy K.: On that note, maybe Prada L’Eau Ambrée if you can still find it! August 29, 2016 at 8:37am Reply

        • Cornelia Blimber: Or Dune by Dior. August 29, 2016 at 8:38am Reply

      • Bea: I agree! I also like to use the body lotion for daywear. Chanel makes lovely bodylotions and it smells like Coco EdP, but without being overwhelming. August 29, 2016 at 8:46am Reply

    • irem: I am going to recommend something counterintuitive. Have you tried Coco parfum? Dabbing instead of spraying makes the fragrance much less diffusive. Also, while stronger in concentration I find Chanel perfumes much smoother and mellower in composition. The EdT and EdP almost seem harsh when compared to the parfum. Also, the experience of applying it, especially before a special night out, is wonderful. The only downside is the lack of testers. August 29, 2016 at 11:32am Reply

      • Cornelia Blimber: Hi Irem, I think you are right.
        I have that experience with Nahéma: the extrait is softer than edp or edt.
        And yes, the gesture of applying the perfume special. August 29, 2016 at 12:32pm Reply

      • Karen A: I was going to suggest the same thing! August 29, 2016 at 2:04pm Reply

      • spe: Brilliant! September 1, 2016 at 10:41am Reply

    • kpaint: Both are long-discontinued (though still easy to find if you are willing to use ebay) but often compared to Coco: Krizia Teatro alla Scala and Aja by Fendi. August 30, 2016 at 12:04pm Reply

    • SophieC: You might like Cologne pour or Spir by MFK. A sort of honeyed soft but sexy Amber. August 30, 2016 at 2:34pm Reply

      • SophieC: Sorry that should be Cologne pour le Soir. August 30, 2016 at 2:35pm Reply

  • Lizzy K.: Hey! I’m looking for a serious perfume for daytime wear, preferably something that can be worn year round? My current signature is Narciso EDP (2014) and I also love Alaïa and Chanel Sycomore, but I find both a little too sensual/earthy for daytime/business settings. Any recommendations are highly appreciated! August 29, 2016 at 8:13am Reply

    • Surbhi: Most citrus are pretty safe for office. Are you looking for something other than citrus / fresh scents. Light florals ? I like la tulipe and eau de magnolia for office. August 29, 2016 at 10:21am Reply

    • Anne: Hello! I love what you ve been wearing so far. Have you tried IDylle by guerlain? It s similar to Narcisso but I would say it s quieter, more tamed and probably a little more sophisticated. I would also try Eau des Merveilles by Hermes. Both are beautiful!! Year round scent. Let me know how you get on. Anne August 29, 2016 at 11:55am Reply

      • Anne: For Idylle, try the eau de parfum. The eau de toilette is far too evasive. August 29, 2016 at 12:02pm Reply

    • Hayley: I agree with Surbhi- citrus, light florals.. and I second her choices of Tulip and Eau de Magnolia. MFK has a whole lineup of ladylike frags too, for example Aqua Vitae & Universalis. Hermes Kelly Caleche would also be great. August 29, 2016 at 11:58am Reply

    • Hamamelis: Have you tried Chanel no 19, or no 19 Poudré? It seems you like musk, leather and vetiver, all are part of 19. Or if you would like something smoother, maybe Acqua di Parma Iris Nobile? If you find the EdP too much you could try the EdT. Lastly there is Hermes’ Cuir d’Ange, a bull bottle is expensive but you could consider the travel set (bonus: try other Hermes scents!) August 29, 2016 at 12:06pm Reply

      • Lizzy K.: Hamamelis, I do love No. 19 EDT! Perhaps I’ll finally add that one to my collection. Also, must try some more of the Hermes set; Ellena’s work would probably fit the bill here.

        Hayley, I agree that Kurkdjian’s lineup is wonderful, though as much as I like the Aquas I’ve never quite been compelled to put down the money for either. I do love to smell them every now and again, so maybe one day…

        Anne, it’s been so long since I’ve tried Idylle so that’s back on the test list, thank you! August 29, 2016 at 12:37pm Reply

        • Hamamelis: Lizzy I think everyone should have some version of no 19 😉
          The poudré is very nice if you can get along with musk, on me it can be a bit persistent… August 29, 2016 at 12:45pm Reply

      • SophieC: I completely second all of these. August 30, 2016 at 2:36pm Reply

    • Aurora: Great recommendations, already. I second Hayley for Kelly Caleche; you might also want to try Cacharel Noa, and Atelier Cologne Bois Blonds, they match your likes pretty well too, and I can’t imagine their offending anyone in an office environment. August 29, 2016 at 12:57pm Reply

    • kpaint: I also love Narciso EDP, Alaïa, and Sycomore, and was going to recommend Hermès Cuir d’Ange as well, and thoroughly 2nd the N°19 Poudré suggestion. 19 EDT is always good, too 🙂

      Have you tried Narciso EDT? It’s very much a sister to the EDP, but feminine and pretty where the EDP is sexy and more intimate.

      For daytime/work environments I love the straight-forwardness of Chanel N°5 EDP. Jour d’Hermès Gardénia and Atelier Sous le toit de Paris also come to mind as they are charming and interesting but not distracting.

      Chanel Beige always seems a good choice, as does TDC Bois d’Iris. Marni Spice and Esprit d’Oscar might be worth trying too. August 31, 2016 at 2:43pm Reply

      • Marie: Love Esprit d’Oscar and agree that it is always a good choice no matter if business or casual, day or night.
        So sorry they decided to discontinue it but it can still be found online at reasonable prices. September 1, 2016 at 5:56am Reply

    • spe: Well, I’d take you into the fresh vetiver direction. Chantecaille Vetiver, Creed Vetiver Originale, Guerlain Vetiver. Maybe Eau Sauvage by Dior or Cristalle Eau Verte. September 1, 2016 at 10:52am Reply

    • Sofie: Great recs already and defenitely seconding most of them! It keeps amazing me how different we all perceive our perfumes. Your lineup, I love it, but wouldn’t consider it sensual, I find them too dry for that and I would wear them all happily to the office!
      Anyway… Maybe you want to try any of the Prada Infusions series. They’re all quite airy, non-intrusive but with decent staying power and an office friendly sillage. I would suggest the Iris and Cèdre. I find the vetiver one quite unimpressive. Also, since you’re apparentlys stopping at the Chanel counter 😉, give Pour Monsieur a sniff. September 3, 2016 at 2:25am Reply

      • Lizzy K.: Thank you for all of your recommendations! I’m actually going shopping today, and I’m planning to pick up a bottle of Chanel N°5 L’Eau after the glowing review on this site 🙂 September 3, 2016 at 4:03am Reply

  • Paula Liberty: Victoria…Thank you for all the work you put into making this website happen. I have learned soooo much. It’s always a delight to read what’s happening here. Massive blessings to you & yours! August 29, 2016 at 10:04am Reply

    • Victoria: Thank you very much, Paula! So happy to hear this. August 29, 2016 at 11:10am Reply

      • Anne: So true!!! Thank you!! August 29, 2016 at 11:56am Reply

  • Emma: Wonderful thread, thank you! As everyone here am a fanatic ‘Perfumehunter’ searching for my next discovery! My tastes in perfumes are quite diverse, so it is a bit confusing. I loved Voyage d’Hermes, Hiris, Caleche from Hermes. Chant d’Aromes, Heure Bleue, Aqua Fresca from Guerlain. Milano, Infusion d’Iris of Prada. Dzing, Tea for Two, Fou D’Absinthe, Violet, by Artisan Parfumeur. Nuits d’ Hadrien of Annick Goutal. Declaration of Cartier. Essence and Narciso from Narciso Rodriquez. Bandit by Robert Piguet. Jolie Madame and Vent Vert by Balmain. Just to name a few… Any ideas or recommendations for something new or old but still in circulation? August 29, 2016 at 10:29am Reply

    • Hamamelis: Hi Emma, have you tried no 19? or Annick Goutal’s Heure Exquise (as iris is one of your notes)? Or a new house to discover is Parfums Nicolai, Weekend is very good, or Odalisque? The good thing is they come in 30 ml bottles and they are affordable. August 29, 2016 at 12:13pm Reply

      • Emma: I like 19 but not crazy about it, and Heure exquise is not something I would wear. I have never found the Nicolai, I suppose I should try to find them online. Thank you for letting me know about them and the suggestions! 🙂 August 30, 2016 at 9:33am Reply

    • Cornelia Blimber: Ha! You are the one for Idole by Lubin! August 29, 2016 at 12:35pm Reply

      • Hamamelis: 🙂 August 29, 2016 at 12:45pm Reply

      • Emma: Thank you! August 29, 2016 at 7:33pm Reply

    • Marianna: Have you tried any of Sultan Pasha’s creations? A lot of them have a great retro vibe with a modern twist. Kafkaesque has done a ton of reviews September 1, 2016 at 11:48am Reply

  • Lifestyle Lodestar: Hello! I have just finished my bottle of Guerlain Shalimar Souffle de Parfum which is a fresh citrusy take on the original, I quite like Acqua di Parma’s Ginepro de Sardegna but I’d really appreciate some similar suggestions before buying anything. Thanks in advance! August 29, 2016 at 10:47am Reply

    • Sandra: Guerlain also makes some similar fragrances in that category. If you like green and vanilla you can give Angelique Noire a try, but its very expensive so don’t fall in love. August 29, 2016 at 11:18am Reply

      • Lifestyle Lodestar: Thank you Sandra, I’m off to the Perfumerie after work to give Angelique Noire a sniff! August 29, 2016 at 11:55am Reply

    • Mia: You might also enjoy Etro’s Shaal Nur or MGP’s Bois de Turquie, an assumption based on the notes of AdP’s Ginepro. Aromatic, woody, but quite light both of them. Shaal Nur is the more citrusy one of them. August 29, 2016 at 2:20pm Reply

      • Mia: MPG’s it is. August 29, 2016 at 2:24pm Reply

  • Elena: Hi! I am looking for a warm feeling, cooler weather perfume. Some that I have and enjoy in that vein are Shalimar Parfum Initial, Dzing!, Prada l’eau ambree, Dune, Chamade, and though it’s usually a bit too much, Kenzo Jungle Elephant. As you can see I don’t generally like anything too “heavy”. I was thinking of trying Amber Gris. Any and all ideas welcome! Lower prices options appreciated, but I am curious to hear any suggestions, really. Thanks! August 29, 2016 at 11:12am Reply

    • Anne: Hello!! I too miss Parfum Initial!!! I thought it was sooo lovely, I can’t believe they ve discontinued it. I went trough 2 bottles of it…. A first for me!!!!! And now I am stuck.
      I am not going to present you with a lower price fragrance….. Sorry…. But have you tried l Ambre des Merveilles by Hermes. You might like/ love it!!! August 29, 2016 at 12:00pm Reply

      • Elena: Thank you! I am so far down this rabbit hole that this IS a less expensive option for me, compared with the likes of chypre palatin or a neela vermeire!! I am not excited about falling in love with bottles that are $250+. Of course, there are some wonderful things to be found at TJ Maxx for $40 occasionally, but I meant under $100 or so. August 29, 2016 at 1:14pm Reply

        • Anne: Try l Ambre des Merveilles by Hermes. It s in the niche bracket price range. It s about 75 Euros. Hope you will enjoy it. August 29, 2016 at 1:17pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: Have you tried l’Ambre des Merveilles? Victoria wrote a beautiful review. It isn’t too expensive, and also available in travel size (but then you have to choose 3 others, but there is plenty to choose from!) August 29, 2016 at 12:37pm Reply

      • Elena: I will try it, since you and Anne both named it!!! August 29, 2016 at 1:15pm Reply

    • Aurora: Maybe something with iris to remind you of Shalimar P.I.: Hermes Hiris, it’s from the regular collection so less expensive, or even Dior Homme (completely unisex) but perhaps not the intense as it is denser than the regular one and more expensive, or even Prada Infusion d’Iris which has some relation to l’Eau Ambree but you probably know that one already. Or you mention Dune: have you tried Annick Goutal Sables? It’s on the rich side, an amber but applied lightly, very beautiful and would keep you warm. August 29, 2016 at 1:48pm Reply

    • Lily: I don’t know your reference perfumes to know if this is in a similar vein, but I adore YSL Cinema for feeling warm. It is discontinued but easily had under online, maybe even at discounters like tj maxx still. Floral amber. A dry warm fragrance, not overly sweet or cloying. I wear in summer, too, but I like being warm…. August 29, 2016 at 1:58pm Reply

    • MikasMinion: It’s not cheap, but you might give Taklamakan a try (I recommend a spray sample from one of the decant sites). It is my latest love because of its oddly ethereal tenacity. It lasts forever on me (24 hours or more!) but manages not to be at all cloying, which is quite a feat for a semi-gourmand. of course, I’ve been testing it in the heat but plan to enjoy it even more in cooler weather. August 29, 2016 at 2:01pm Reply

  • Heather Hart: Hello,

    I am looking for a beautiful floral for fall weather. I prefer a light floral not to heavy as I live in warm, Southern California. I love rose, leather, amber, and vanilla. Any suggestions? With much appreciation. August 29, 2016 at 11:46am Reply

    • Hamamelis: Hi Heather, I thought of l’Artisan’s Traversee du Bosphore, as it has leather, rose, honey and nougat! It is not as sweet as it sounds, at least, not on my skin, but it may be a tad heavy. Diptyque’s Eau Rose is a very light rose, it has not amber or vanilla but a little bit of honey. I love Andy Tauers Rose Chyprée, with a gorgeous ambery dry down (Elisa wrote a great review here), and the oakmoss prevents it from being too heavy (on me). August 29, 2016 at 12:43pm Reply

    • Willa: I don’t wear a lot of light florals myself but I love Jo Malone’s Orange Blossom for hot weather. It’s very feminine but light and elegant. Kenzo Flower is another scent that I’m quite partial to. August 29, 2016 at 12:47pm Reply

    • Elena: How about Ann Gerard Rose Cut? It has a touch of incense which I love. August 29, 2016 at 1:16pm Reply

    • Aurora: Les Parfums de Rosine is a very good rose-centered collection. Rose Kashmirie from their line has amber and vanilla added to rose, so fits your brief, but it might be a tad heavy for SoCal. Have a look at their site you can order 3 samples or 25 (all the line) for a very reasonable amount, the price includes shipping and they ship anywhere. Good luck. August 29, 2016 at 2:55pm Reply

    • Neva: Hi Heather, I suggest you try Rose Velours from Van Cleef and Arpels’ Collection Extraordinaire. I hope you’ll like it. August 29, 2016 at 4:41pm Reply

    • Tara C: Dior Ambre Nuit is a lovely rose amber. August 29, 2016 at 6:25pm Reply

    • Amy: Hi Heather, have you tried MFK Lumiere Noire? It’s a beautiful rose. For me, it’s just the right dose of rose. The notes list cumin, but I don’t get much of that when I wear it. Another one is Ciel de Gum from MFK which is a rose based fragrance with a vanilla and amber base. No affiliation with MFK here! I just thought of these two when I read your post. 🙂 August 29, 2016 at 9:09pm Reply

    • Tomate Farcie: Hiram Green Moon Bloom, Parfums DelRae Bois de Paradis, Hermes L’Ambre des Merveilles, Not what you asked for but throwing in Bottega Veneta (original) August 29, 2016 at 9:10pm Reply

    • Heather Hart: Thank you so much for your suggestions. August 29, 2016 at 10:40pm Reply

    • Rich Potter: I just stumbled across Van Cleef & Arpel’s Moonlight Patchouli. All night long I was haunted by the loveliest rose fragrance until i realized I had put the scent strip in my shirt pocket. It’s just a lovely, sheer fragrance. Rose on top, iris in the middle, and a light, elegant patchouli in the base. It will haunt me until I get a full bottle. August 29, 2016 at 10:47pm Reply

    • Old Herbaceous: Hi Heather! If you are looking for a less expensive option, you might try Tocca’s Isabel. According to Fragrantica: Top notes are bergamot, orange, pear and sangria; middle notes are rose, leather, vetiver and turkish rose; base notes are guaiac wood, amber and vanilla. I’ve tried it in stores a couple of times (they carry it in Sephora) and liked it a lot, but I have so many other rose fragrances that I didn’t add it to the pile! August 30, 2016 at 8:17am Reply

  • Domestic Goblin: I read somewhere that Chloe are discontinuing Love, Chloe, I really hope this isn’t true. But in case it is, can someone recommend a similar perfume? I love the fragrance from its top notes to its dry down and the fact that it lasts for days if you accidentally spray some onto your bathrobe! August 29, 2016 at 11:53am Reply

    • Aurora: I’ve heard it was discontinued too. Quite a shame. I find Frederic Malle Lipstick Rose is not many miles away from Love, Chloe. Or have you tried all of the usual powdery suspects? Prada Infusion d’Iris absolue (lasts very well on my skin), Chanel Misia (very rosy and with nice candied violet on top), Guerlain l’Heure Bleue, OdlR Esprit d’Oscar, Kenzo Flower, ELDO Putain des Palaces. August 29, 2016 at 3:43pm Reply

      • Claire: Speaking of all the powdery suspects: I’ve recently taken a powdery detour, loving fragrances I would have veered well away from in the past: I’m loving Lorenzo Villoresi Teint de Neige, especially layered, love L’Heure Bleue, especially the parfum, and I can’t wait to try Putain des Palaces. I also want to try Misia again, but Chanel samples in the Exclusifs range are increasinhly difficult to come by outside a major metropolis, even my local Nordstrom only carries Chance, et al. Lipstick Rose did not resonate with me, nor have most of Chloe’s fragrances, though I will try again to be sure. I’d love some Powdery fragrance suggestions based upon likes above, and suggestions on how to obtain Chanel samples outside major cities. Thanks! August 31, 2016 at 11:55am Reply

        • kpaint: I love powdery, too. Jean-Charles Brosseau Ombre Rose, Kenzo Flower, and Narciso EDP are some of my favorites. And of course, there is always Shalimar.

          I’ve got to try Teint de Neige. I’m totally sold on it just by the name alone 🙂 August 31, 2016 at 2:54pm Reply

          • kpaint: Oh, and as far as sampling Chanels, ebay seems to be the only option these days… August 31, 2016 at 2:54pm Reply

            • Claire: Thank-you for both of the above, kpaint!

              Teint de Neige can really remind one of J&J’s Baby Powder, which can be a strange association, but as it develops it feels much more complex and sophisticated than that, and the delicate floral notes surface. Definitely a wonderful comfort /skin scent. It’s available in numerous formulations: body powder, body lotion, cream…I think they could be amazing! September 1, 2016 at 3:34am Reply

        • Aurora: Hello Claire and kpaint: Me too, I really want to try Teint de Neige and Ombre Rose is lovely. In a previous thread someone had recommended l’Erbolario Iris as very similar to Teint de Neige for a budget price so I thought I would mention it for both of you. September 1, 2016 at 12:33pm Reply

      • Domestic Goblin: Thanks Aurora. I’ve been meaning to try Chanel’s Misia but it seems to be very difficult to find in the UK nowadays. August 31, 2016 at 2:43pm Reply

        • Aurora: Hello: I’m in the UK too! Would be happy to send you my sample, Hamamelis kindly made one for me not long ago when I was researching scents with a violet note and it would be my pleasure to pass it along. If you’re interested let me know here and then I’ll drop an email to Victoria to put us in touch when she has a moment. September 1, 2016 at 12:50pm Reply

  • Hayley: I am testing Tom Ford Vert d’Encens, and quite like the green beginning and relatively soft incense middle that leads to a creamy vanilla-wood drydown. But it’s ‘like’ not ‘love’, so i find it hard to justify the price point. Would you have recommendations for similar scents that combine incense and creamy sandalwood yet retain some level of lightness? August 29, 2016 at 12:05pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: Neela Vermeire’s Trayee? August 29, 2016 at 12:43pm Reply

      • Surbhi: ohh I second that as well. Light sandalwood and incense and lasts on the skin for a while. August 29, 2016 at 12:47pm Reply

      • Hayley: I’ve never tried Neela Vermeire, but it looks like i’d better 🙂 Thank you! August 31, 2016 at 2:25pm Reply

    • Willa: I’ve used Diptyque’s TamDao in combination with lighter scents (mainly Diptyque Philosykos) to give them a sandalwood edge. August 29, 2016 at 12:59pm Reply

    • Aurora: And at the other end of the spectrum from Trayee, price-wise, there is Yves Rocher Secrets d’Essences Voile d’Ambre a light incense and sandalwood ambery scent that is really worth a sniff. August 29, 2016 at 3:08pm Reply

    • Tomate Farcie: Neela Vermeire Creations Ashoka or any of the NVC collection, have you tried te Comme des Garcons Series 3 like Avignon or Kyoto, Oriza L. Legrand Reve d’Ossian August 29, 2016 at 10:11pm Reply

  • Monica: Hello everyone,
    How do you compare Guerlain Terracotta with Lys Soleia? I am not a big fan of Lys Soleia. It becomes too sweet and overpowering on me most of the time. I have never tried Terracota and I have heard great reviews about it. However, as a reference, I am a big lover of Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess. I have a weakness for beach scents of this type. Could you please give me your opinions and suggestions? Thanks a lot. August 29, 2016 at 12:12pm Reply

    • Mia: I think they are extremely similar. So, if you don’t like one, you probably won’t like the other either. Also Nicolai’s Juste un Reve is much alike.

      Sorry, this respond only helps in avoiding; I do not have good suggestions for substitutes. But I am sure someone here has! Good luck in your search. August 29, 2016 at 2:32pm Reply

      • Monica: Thanks Mia, I will try Terracotta and Juste un Reve and hope for the best. August 29, 2016 at 6:10pm Reply

    • Sarah: Hello Monica,
      I am currently using Guerlain Terracotta. It is a dream! It is only available in EdT so the longevity isn’t perfect for my taste, however, it is such a delightful summery fragrance. I, too, used Bronze Goddess years ago, but prefer Guerlain. I am not familiar with Lys Soleia. Is it a beachy scent? August 29, 2016 at 2:33pm Reply

      • Monica: Hi Sarah, Guerlain Lys Soleia has a very tropical feeling. It is citrusy at the beginning and it has a creamy lily note similar to gardenia oil which is pretty strong on me. Very summery. Unfortunately, I don’t like it so much. Looking forward to testing Terracotta. August 29, 2016 at 6:07pm Reply

    • Heather Hart: Le Labo Lyse too dye for!!! August 29, 2016 at 10:41pm Reply

      • Monica: Thanks for your recommendation Heather Hart. I will for sure sample Le Labo Lyse and report back later on. August 30, 2016 at 5:43am Reply

  • Phyllis Iervello: Victoria, I just have to comment on the beautiful photo of Brussels that you posted!
    Thank you.

    Today I’m wearing Misia and looking forward to trying it in the eau de parfum when it comes out in September. August 29, 2016 at 12:24pm Reply

    • Ariadne: Misia is fabulous! Will it only be available in the Chanel boutiques? I am really considering a splurge. August 29, 2016 at 12:57pm Reply

      • Phyllis Iervello: Ariadne, I love Misia. I believe that Saks Fifth Avenue also carries the Chanel Exclusifs. August 29, 2016 at 7:17pm Reply

      • kpaint: Some department stores have full Chanel boutiques. For instance, I live in Seattle and the downtown Nordstrom carries the exclusifs while the suburban and mall stores do not. I think the Chanel website store locator can tell you where to find the in-store boutiques. August 31, 2016 at 3:01pm Reply

        • Claire: The Downtown Portland Nordstrom carried all the Chanel lines until a few years ago, but no longer, which is very disappointing. It seems I will have to resort to eBay for samples. I tried it in Berlin when it was first launched, but I was looking for something different at the time. September 1, 2016 at 3:43am Reply

        • Kari: I’ve found that same issue; the Seattle Notdstrom has a much better perfume selection than others in the surrounding area. Generally, what I try to do is look at the website for a perfume I want to try, and then try the “pick up in store” option to see if it’s in stock anywhere nearby me to sample. The downtown Seattle store is a little more out of the way for me now that I’m working elsewhere, but it’s worth a visit. September 1, 2016 at 9:09pm Reply

    • kpaint: Oh! I hadn’t heard an EDP was coming. I was planning a Misia FB purchase in the future. I’ll have to try the EDP first…

      Is Chanel planning more exclusifs EDPs? That is something I would appreciate as most parfums last mere minutes on me, so an EDP would be a more welcome variation. August 31, 2016 at 2:58pm Reply

      • Phyllis Iervello: kpaint, Chanel is turning all the Exclusifs into EDP’s. The originals up until the latest one “Boy”, were all EDT. They are reformulating all of them into EDP’s just like “Boy”. August 31, 2016 at 3:50pm Reply

        • kpaint: This is exciting news! …but where will we sample them? *sigh* August 31, 2016 at 4:14pm Reply

        • Claire: So smaller bottles, and not necessarily longer lasting or better sillage…. September 1, 2016 at 3:45am Reply

      • Phyllis Iervello: Unfortunately, they will all be pricier as well. August 31, 2016 at 3:51pm Reply

  • Elizabeth: After falling in love with Penhaligon’s Ostara and securing a bottle of this discontinued beauty, should I try to track down another bottle for back-up or is there something else out there, that is just as green and floral and just, well… everything I love in a fragrance? August 29, 2016 at 12:51pm Reply

    • kayliz: No love guarantees;) but here are some more green florals:
      Guerlain Chant d’Aromes
      Penhaligon’s Lily of the Valley
      Amouage Ciel Woman
      Nicolai Le Temps d’une Fete (available on request, apparently)
      I can send a sample of the Nicolai with pleasure (the address is kaydothennsquigglyfreenetdotde). August 29, 2016 at 1:23pm Reply

    • Aurora: Elizabeth: my advice if you absolutely love it is to stock up while you can, it was discontinued only recently; otherwise Kayliz has made some lovely recommendations already, I would just add Jacomo Silences and Guerlain Chamade, 2 green floral favorites of mine. August 29, 2016 at 4:43pm Reply

      • Elizabeth: Thank you for your suggestions. I had wondered about Penhaligon’s Lily of the Valley. When I can figure out Kayliz’s email, I will follow that up. : )
        I have yet to fathom why Ostara is gone. It is so popular. August 29, 2016 at 5:25pm Reply

        • Lily: I love Ostara and did grab a backe up bottle when it hit the $30 mark. I love Silences as well though they are very different perfumes on me. Ostara to me smells like a live daffodil on a late winter sunny day. Silences is bitter herbs and secret shadowed places in the heat of summer must and musky cut grass skank. August 29, 2016 at 7:56pm Reply

    • Old Herbaceous: Ooh, I love Ostara too! And yes, I got a back-up bottle, because I haven’t smelled anything else much like it. I also love green florals, but what is unique to me about Ostara is that it really captures the scent of daffodils, as opposed to generic narcissus. This spring, I visited Gibbs Gardens, which has over 20 million daffodils planted on its hillsides. It was like being surrounded by living Ostara — heavenly! August 30, 2016 at 8:28am Reply

    • girasole: I also fell in love with Ostara and am just chiming in to second the recommendation for Patricia de Nicolai’s Le Temps d’une Fete. It’s a heartbreakingly beautiful green floral blend – perhaps not as photorealistic as Ostara, but every bit as lovely. In fact, I think I actually prefer it!

      You might also want to check out Nicolai’s Odalisque while you’re at it. Not quite as dewy and green, but a gorgeous, mossy lily of the valley. September 3, 2016 at 9:25am Reply

  • Iuliana: It looks gorgeous, Victoria. Sorry to add to the already rather long list of questions, but a couple of weeks ago I crossed on the Eurostar a very elegant woman in her late 30s who wore a gorgeous spicy and very elegant perfume (feminine and oozing quality ingredients, but with no hint of sweetness I could detect). Although I am normally not shy at all, the particular set-up that day stopped me from asking her what she wore, but I have been thinking about it ever since. Would any perfume you encountered fit the bill? In terms of spicy perfumes, I own Voyages d’Hermès, Timbuktu and Tauer’s Eau d’épices which I all love, but the spiceness of her perfume was less luminous than the second, less… unisex than the first and definitely less Christmassy than the third. Many thanks! August 29, 2016 at 12:53pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: Maybe Neela Vermeire’s Trayee? Or Kurkdjian Ciel de Gum? One of the Amouages (Fate, Lyric, Epic)? August 29, 2016 at 2:06pm Reply

      • Iuliana: Thank you! The only one I tried is Trayee, but I am afraid I do not remember it (I was concentrating on Mohur at the time). August 29, 2016 at 4:32pm Reply

    • spe: Noire Epices by Frederic Malle? August 30, 2016 at 1:30am Reply

      • Iuliana: Thank you – I had a sample and, from my notes (I try to keep track) found it beautiful and very fine, but somehow cold. I will revisit it! August 30, 2016 at 8:26am Reply

    • george: Big perfumes every seems to smell everywhere (none which are an exact fit for your description, but all have a spicy element)

      Santal 33
      Portrait of a lady
      Youth Dew August 31, 2016 at 3:15am Reply

      • Iuliana: Many thanks, George. Portrait of a Lady is gorgeous, but a big commitment ;-). Will try the other two! August 31, 2016 at 5:23am Reply

        • george: Another possibility is Parfum Sacre by Caron August 31, 2016 at 1:27pm Reply

          • Iuliana: Double thanks – turns out I had a sample someone gave me some years ago and what a beauty it is!!!. I cannot wait to try it on the skin (today is a no-no after my first encounter with Serge Luten’s Cèdre. So much for spicy but not sweet perfumes ;-). August 31, 2016 at 5:00pm Reply

  • Willa: Hi everyone, need your help/advice as I’m trying to decide whether or not to invest in Hermes’ Eau de Rhubarbe Ecarlate. I keep getting drawn to it every time I walk past it in the shops and just have to smell it but i’m not sure if it’s too sweet for every day wear. What are your thoughts? Do you like it/dislike it? I’m torn between that one and Hermes Un Jardin en Mediterranee and can hardly justify buying one nevermind both…

    On a separate note, I love this blog, such a great space for fragrance geeks – I’m still learning but feel like I’m in great company here 🙂 August 29, 2016 at 12:54pm Reply

    • Iuliana: I have received a few samples of Eau de rhubarbe écatlate and understand your attraction towards it, but have to admit that it failed to convince me – while perfectly lovely and clearly very well done, it seems to loose my interest mid-way and, for me at least, lacks the wow factor which would make me buy it (especially given the Hermès prices). Victoria’s review is lovely and much more useful than these lines… I am afraid that I cannot help on Un jardin dans la Méditerranée – with Le jardin de Mondieur Li, it is the only other Jardin I do not have, but I tend to swear by Un Jardin sur le Nil (in case you would like to try another from the series). From memory, the 2 you mention are very different fragrances, so it might be worthr checking a few more before deciding. August 29, 2016 at 1:12pm Reply

      • Willa: Thanks for your thoughts. Yes they are very different, I tend to have a very eclectic taste in scents. There are very few that I really like and they are all very different. The lack of wauw factor is my concern again but then I keep getting drawn to it so it must be doing something for me. August 29, 2016 at 3:09pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: Willa, Hermes does a fantastic travel set. You choose 4 of their fragrances, 15 ml each, and you receive them a nice box. You could have Rhubarb Ecarlate, and Jardin en Mediterranee, and 2 more to chose from! Depending on your taste maybe Eau or Ambre des Merveilles, or another Jardin, or one of the colognes…plenty to choose. You can order via a Hermes website, 96 euro´s. Maybe it is also sold in a Hermes shop or shop in shop. August 29, 2016 at 2:11pm Reply

      • Willa: Thanks Hamamelis, that’s genius!! I’ll do that – it’ll give me some time/help to decide what works best 🙂 August 29, 2016 at 3:06pm Reply

        • kpaint: I’ve also bought some 15 ml Hermes bottles on ebay. They’re marked up, but you only have to commit to 1. 😉 August 31, 2016 at 3:03pm Reply

      • Iuliana: Great idea indeed! Collecting in a Hermes store (even in another country, provided it’s in Europe) is free and they have them in stores too. I bought mine on the Internet and you can even ha pave 2 of the same without any problem (if you fancy one in particular). August 29, 2016 at 4:36pm Reply

  • kayliz: Here’s a big thank you to everyone who responded to my June request for something spicy and creamy for summer! I had great fun testing and am actually still looking, but the journey is as good in its way as the destination. Here are some impressions:

    Lovely but not creamy: Prada L’Eau Ambree, Bois 1920 Sushi Imperial, MDCI Rivage des Syrtes, Shalimar P.I. L’Eau, CdG Jaisalmer, Kyoto; Cale Fragranze d’Autore Allegro Con Brio.

    Headachy: Fils de Dieu, Marni, Vanilla & Anise.

    Full bottle discovery along the way: Santal du Pacifique by Perris Monte Carlo. Gorgeous creamy sandalwood! August 29, 2016 at 1:05pm Reply

    • Aurora: How nice of you to report back Kayliz. Enjoy your bottle of Santal du Pacifique. I am making a note of it as I love sandalwood. August 29, 2016 at 3:51pm Reply

      • kayliz: It’s well worth a try! I was very relieved to prefer the EdP to the Extrait:)
        If you can’t get hold of a sample, let me know at the address above (green florals). August 29, 2016 at 4:59pm Reply

        • Aurora: How nice of you Kayliz! I’ll try to get a sample first, and will use your generous offer only if I have difficulties. All my best. August 29, 2016 at 5:26pm Reply

    • Kari: As someone who really loves creamy sandalwood, your mention of Santal du Pacifique caught my attention. I want to check this out. Tell me more about it, if you can! August 30, 2016 at 2:06am Reply

      • kayliz: Hi Kari,
        It’s very close to straight-up sandalwood. The nearest I’ve sniffed to it so far is Santal/Sandalwood by L’Orientaliste, but even that is rough and scratchy by comparison. The first time I tried it, I wasn’t immediately convinced — that was just the top notes; it goes creamier with time. I find it so creamy that I thought there must be vanilla in the mix, but allegedly not, just “floral notes”.
        — That’s the EdP. The Extrait, blessedly, is less sandalwoody and more honeyed floral (blessedly for me since that means I’m not tempted to go for the one with the horrendous price tag). I think of the EdP as a straighter, much less stylised Bois des Isles and see a similar relationship between the Extrait and Beige.
        Hope this helps! September 1, 2016 at 7:04pm Reply

        • Kari: That sounds amazing. Wow. Thank you for providing such a thorough and tantalizing description! I love sandalwood. September 1, 2016 at 9:10pm Reply

  • spe: Hello, I’m looking for suggestions for a non- sweet (no vanilla) , loamy / earthy carnation or lilac fragrance. I have worn Dioressence (new version) and Derby (new version) and enjoy both. I’m not interested in a soliflore, but in a refined scent that is carnation or lilac predominant (spicier flowers) with a background of rich, moist dirt. Thank you for any help! August 29, 2016 at 1:56pm Reply

    • Mia: Sounds quite hard to find exactly what you are after. However, for a lilac, I recommend testing La Parfumerie Moderne’s Desarmant. Dark, lovely lilac. There is vanilla listed as one of the basenotes but I do not detect it, or at least do not suffer from it – and I don’t enjoy vanilla myself either. August 29, 2016 at 2:47pm Reply

      • spe: Thank you for the suggestions, Mia! I’m excited to give these a try. August 29, 2016 at 4:10pm Reply

    • Qwendy: You might like Lorenzo Villoresi’s Donna …. It is a beautiful atypical floral that certainly contains carnation ….. “notes of rose, coriander, clove, star anise, blackcurrant, carnation, rosewood, rose, jasmin, iris, ylang ylang, violet leaves, sandalwood, musk and narcissus.” August 29, 2016 at 5:01pm Reply

      • spe: Sounds lovely! I’m going to purchase a sample! August 30, 2016 at 6:57pm Reply

    • Tomate Farcie: It’s tough to find carnation perfumes my faves are Nina Ricci L’Air du Temps and Caron Tabac Blonde in vintage. I suggest trying Puredistance Opardu, You’ll probably hate this one but Charenton Macerations Christopher Street is worth a try August 29, 2016 at 9:43pm Reply

      • spe: Somehow I missed the Christopher Street review. Thank you for calling it to my attention. Intriguing notes – it’s on the sample list. Thank you! August 30, 2016 at 7:01pm Reply

    • Alicia: L’Air du Temps used to be wonderful. I’ve been told that it has changed, and didn’t try it again. An excellent carnation now is from L’Eau d’Italie, Teatro alla Scala, and my favorite lilac is En Passant, I believe by F. Malle. August 30, 2016 at 12:15pm Reply

      • spe: I wore l’air du temp during a difficult time in my life. It is exquisite. I guess I’m looking for a tougher L’ Air du Temp. August 30, 2016 at 7:03pm Reply

    • SophieC: May not be strong enough for you but I think there is something very compelling yet light about L’Artisan’s Oeillet Sauvage. August 30, 2016 at 3:51pm Reply

      • spe: Just quickly sampled OS and the Aedes carnation. Thank you for encouraging me to revisit these.

        Thank you for all of the suggestions!

        Teatro alla Scala – on the sample list.

        En Passant is more aqueous on me than dirt-like. It is beautiful.

        Thank you for your help! August 30, 2016 at 7:08pm Reply

    • Aurora: Hello spe: I will just add that Caron Bellodgia is well worth a sniff too, even the current one, as it has a good amount of clove, a note which seems to have disappeared from more modern perfumes otherwise I like the soft carnation Etro Dianthus. Have fun with your search. September 1, 2016 at 9:59am Reply

      • spe: Hi Aurora,
        What formulation for the Bellodgia do you suggest? EDT? EDP? Parfum? Thank you! September 1, 2016 at 10:57am Reply

        • Aurora: I currently have the EDT, I find it projects really well and also lasts on my skin, that said the extrait must be beautiful. September 2, 2016 at 3:50am Reply

  • Hayley: Hi I would like to find my fantasy herbal Mediterranean garden perfume (not sure it exists!) someething rosemary, thyme, citrus, warm scented – I liked ninfeo mio at the start but then it moved to fig which I wasn’t keen on, am uk based, thank you August 29, 2016 at 2:41pm Reply

    • Willa: Have you come across the Italian brand l’Erbolario? As I remember it, they have quite a few herby, very Italian scents at very reasonable prices. Not sure about the quality compared to high end fragrances but I’ve been happy with the products I’ve had. I think they have a stockist in Islington. August 29, 2016 at 3:16pm Reply

      • Hayley: Hi willa I have not heard of them, I have just looked online and they remind me of yves rocher will have a proper check out thanks.
        I read up the comments and I too love Hermes rhubarb- a sales assistant gave me a generous sample which is keeping me going! August 29, 2016 at 4:09pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: What about Eau du Sud? Apparently similar to Ninfeo Mio but without fig. Or, if you have a bigger budget, Mona di Orio’s Eau Absolue. A warm, gold coloured Mediterranean garden. August 29, 2016 at 3:44pm Reply

      • Hayley: Hi Hamamelis thank you I need to try eau du Sud properly I think, only tried briefly a while ago in a store, will splash out on a sample. Just read about mona di orio and it sounds gorgeous but I think I need to avoid due to price! Eek! August 29, 2016 at 4:13pm Reply

        • Hamamelis: Yeah, eek! I found a travel set of it, with some discount…68 euro’s! Hurray for travel sets. August 29, 2016 at 5:19pm Reply

    • Aurora: Hello: Have you come across the Acqua di Parma Blue Mediterraneo line? There are several different scents like, Cipresso di Toscana, Ginepro di Sardigna…etc (except fico di amalfi which has fig); it’s a very good collection, you can smell all of them at Liberty or House of Fraser flag store on Oxford Street. August 29, 2016 at 4:22pm Reply

      • Hayley: Hi Aurora, I have come across them but not had a proper sniff of them just briefly the orange one. I need to rectify this as they sound very up my street thank you. I’m a northern gal but I’m hoping Manchester house of Fraser/selfridges will have them, if not I can feel a sample purchasing splurge coming on. August 29, 2016 at 4:37pm Reply

    • Tara C: Have you tried the Carthusia scents? They could fit what you’re looking for. August 29, 2016 at 7:29pm Reply

      • Hayley: Hi Tara I have not come across them but the line sounds lovely and I have found a shop in London that sells the samples online so will be exploring, thank you! August 30, 2016 at 3:47am Reply

    • irem: How about Clarins Eau Dynamisante? A herbal citrus and I am almost sure it lists all those notes. I think you’ll like the price, availability and the red bottle, too. Or maybe it’s only me who is partial to the red bottle 😉 August 29, 2016 at 8:49pm Reply

      • Hayley: Hi Irem it’s one I tried years ago, I thought it was too strong at the time but my tastes have changed so I will try it again, fingers crossed as its a perfect price, thank you! August 30, 2016 at 3:50am Reply

        • Hamamelis: Hayley Eau du Sud is very similar to Eau Dynamisante, but it has much greater longevity, Eau Dynamisante can be very fleeting. August 30, 2016 at 8:43am Reply

          • Hayley: That’s good to know – will be checking them both out – Annick goutal really appeals to me – my friend wears eau d’hadrien all the time and I am slowly checking out the range – mandragore and matin d’orage are favourites. the clarins range though is very easy to get hold of – I live in the sticks by the way!! August 30, 2016 at 10:42am Reply

    • Karen A: Jo Mallone’s Garden Collection might have something that works for you. Loved that they used a beautiful older woman as the model when it was launched. August 30, 2016 at 7:52am Reply

      • Hayley: Hi Karen A I totally agree loved the jo Malone garden range and the beautiful green bottles. I did get to try them and especially liked wild strawberry but just not enough to make a purchase at the time – which I may regret – those bottles sigh….. August 30, 2016 at 10:46am Reply

        • Karen A: I called and emailed the company to say how much I loved their ads (honestly, for me as much as I wanted to love the fragrances they weren’t a love love love). I want to be that woman when I’m 80! With so many options, a fragrance really has to be a total love to purchase. August 30, 2016 at 11:46am Reply

    • Old Herbaceous: I would suggest Un Jardin En Mediterranee, but it has a fig note. Have you tried Un Jardin Sur le Toit? The tart fruit notes are supposed to be apple and pear but they feel more citrusy to me. It has a basil note instead of rosemary and thyme, but definitely a green vibe. I wonder if Christian Dior Granville might suit you — I haven’t tried it myself but it has many of the notes you mention. What about Miller Harris’ Fleur de Sel? Your Mediterranean garden could over look the sea … August 30, 2016 at 12:01pm Reply

      • Hayley: Ooh a Mediterranean garden overlooking the sea sounds amazing – I will seek out a sample of fleurs de sel just a bit worried it sounds too masculine for me…. Granville sounds intriguing too. I have tried Hermes jardin mediterranean but not keen on that fig…I did like sur le toit but I really loved sur le nil so that’s the one on my wish list, one has to be very strict! 😉 August 30, 2016 at 1:50pm Reply

        • Old Herbaceous: I adore Un Jardin Sur Le Nil! Love it, love it. I’m also very keen on Un Jardin Apres La Mousson, which is in fact wonderful to wear after a muggy summer rainstorm. Do you like to layer fragrances? Demeter Fragrance makes one called Provence Meadow that has the herbal/green notes you mentioned, and those fragrances are made for layering. You could try blending that with a citrus fragrance you already have and enjoy. Demeter also makes a “foolproof blending trio” set with Salt Air, Pink Grapefruit and Sunshine. August 30, 2016 at 8:51pm Reply

          • Hayley: I wasn’t keen on apres la mousson – I liked the opening but it went too much melon for me. Demeter are library of fragrance over here and not so readily available but Provence meadow sounds nice if I can track it down to try. I love your blog by the way 😀 August 31, 2016 at 9:20am Reply

            • Old Herbaceous: Thank you very much! I have fun doing it and it’s so nice when someone else enjoys it too. I hope you can find Provence Meadow! September 11, 2016 at 9:43pm Reply

    • SophieC: In line with some of the Annick Goutal suggestions, I find Les Nuits d’Hadrien very evocative of a garden at night, it is herby and loamy and utterly summer in the Mediterranean but at night after a hot day. August 30, 2016 at 3:54pm Reply

      • Hayley: Swoon! This sounds so beautiful – adds to sample list – thank you August 30, 2016 at 5:45pm Reply

    • FearsMice: My recommendation is Huitieme Art’s Aube Pashmina — the perfect herbal garden scent! August 30, 2016 at 10:03pm Reply

      • Hayley: Thanks fearsmice I’ve just read a bit on it, it sounds delicious! I love the smell of tomatoes, will try and get a sample. August 31, 2016 at 9:22am Reply

    • Jane: Hello, sorry a bit late to this but can I recommend Caligna by L’Artisan Parfumeur?
      I’ve been wearing it all summer and had lovely comments. It’s quite herbal in a warm Mediterranean kind of way with an undertone of jammy jasmine but not overly floral. September 5, 2016 at 6:40am Reply

      • Hayley: Hi Jane thank you for recommending caligna – I have the l’artisan sample tin so I have tried it, I think it’s lovely and i did use up my sample and seriously thought about a full bottle but the fig note was just enough to put me off – would have been perfect fantasy garden otherwise 😕 September 5, 2016 at 2:37pm Reply

  • Mia: I have broken record syndrome, that’s why I recommend you try Etro Shaal Nur. Or Vero Profumo Kiki. Different takes on what I interpret you might be after. August 29, 2016 at 2:53pm Reply

    • Hayley: Hi Mia thank you I’ve just had a brief read up on these and they both sound amazing and different takes on what I’m after, I really want to test both of them, am now compiling a sample list! August 29, 2016 at 4:19pm Reply

      • Mia: Great! Let us know later how they – and others – turned out to be? August 31, 2016 at 8:17am Reply

        • Hayley: Will do – might take me a bit to track them down but will be back with an update, thanks again everyone, I never comment and everyone has been so nice 😀 August 31, 2016 at 9:25am Reply

  • Kari: I love reading through these threads. At this point I feel like I’m less in need of “recommend me a perfume” as I am in needing recommendations for how to plan and budget for the right perfume, the right full bottle. This is what I’m currently obsessing over or contemplating, and my thought process.

    I somewhat recently fell in love with Papillon Salome-and Tobacco Rose, too. They are utterly beautiful and also layer well together. I am using my decants a lot, and thinking they would be wise to buy full bottles of-especially Salome, which is so different from anything else I’ve tried (a masterpiece for lovers of animalic cumin and jasmine and rose.)

    Imaginary Authors, which I love, just released Slow Explosions… And though I really ought to sample it, part of me simply wants to blind buy due to suspicions that I’ll love it based on the notes and reviews, and partly because the new packaging is sooo pretty. It comes in a BOOK. What’s not to love? But I suppose I ought to sample first.

    I have a decant of Viktoria Minya’s Hedonist that really knocked me off my feet. It’s juicy, elegant, rich peach and honey and rum. The full bottle is probably too far out of my budget, but it’s gorgeous. Maybe someday.
    I am also awaiting a sample of her Hongrie, which I’m extremely excited about.

    In the meantime… Several months ago, I succumbed to the romance of Mitsouko parfum, and I’ve been stalking and scooping up a few 7.5 ml vintage splash vials. I’ve stopped as I definitely have enough, but was pleased to find a few over several months that smell great and have awesome longevity, and don’t have to worry so much about running out in a hurry.
    The Parfum is my favorite concentration so far. It’s extremely smooth and the oakmoss is more prevalent, the peach more lush.
    I enjoy the EDP too, but it’s a little more intense and less harmonious on my skin, though not so much as the crisp, bright EDT. It’s like 3 different interpretations of a piece of music that I enjoy very much, only one of the 3 REALLY touches my soul deeply. August 30, 2016 at 1:58am Reply

  • Kari: And Victoria, that flower carpet is gorgeous. I love your photography from around the world. You make me long to visit so many besutiful cities, and somehow Brussels was never on my list until I started reading your blog. I love being able to get a taste of the beauty of this city. August 30, 2016 at 2:01am Reply

  • rainboweyes: My MIL fell in love with Amouage Gold and Día (and ended up buying a FB of the latter). Now she’s looking for similar, but more budget-friendly alternatives… Thanks for sharing your ideas! August 30, 2016 at 6:42am Reply

    • Hamamelis: Hi Rainboweyes, did she try no 5 in Extrait/Parfum? or Hermes Caleche? Eau Arpege? Or…if she can’t forget Amouage Gold maybe she can afford the travel spray or solid?
      At least you have a beautifully scented MIL! August 30, 2016 at 8:58am Reply

    • Aurora: Hello Rainboweyes: if she hasn’t tried them yet she might also like Guerlain Liu or Estee Lauder White Linen. September 2, 2016 at 1:08pm Reply

  • Nora Szekely: Hi Victoria and perfume lovers,

    Greetings from Bangalore, India. (I live in Europe but am on a business trip in India).
    Bangalore has a nice climate not too hot nor too humid.
    By the way, do you think that humidity may influence the smell of perfumes? I brought Portrait of a lady with me and it smells slightly different here then back in my drier home country.
    Which perfumes do you recommend that suit this wonderful, lush country? I also have my adored Carnal flower with me but am open to try and buy Indian or other scents that would smell nice here. I love white flowers, santal, patchouli, basically you can recommend anything, I try to sample it. Thank you. August 30, 2016 at 9:08am Reply

    • Surbhi: I brought musc ravageur and le filled de berlin to bangalore with me. I couldn’t smell it at all. I don’t know whether it was temperature or humidity. My skin feels very very different in bangalore.

      I don’t do much perfume when I go to bangalore instead I get the fresh flowers and have them everywhere. You can find fresh jasmine (of various kind) and tuberose literally everywhere.

      I have tried Carnal flower in hot humid weather and that’s how I fell in love with it. (I haven’t tried it in bangalore though).

      And I also like sandalwood oil in the heart of sandalwood land. (if you want to try it, please get it from some authorized shop only to avoid a bad product).

      India mostly does attar style of perfume with a base of sandalwood oil. But I don’t know where to find it in bangalore. Maybe jaynagar 4th block market or gandhi bazar might have it. They are local style markets. August 30, 2016 at 9:38am Reply

    • Karen A: Not in Bangalore but in a hot, humid region and I’d say the impact of humidity is real. I’ve been loving Songes during our awful weather, same vein as CF, maybe a bit more elegant??? August 30, 2016 at 11:49am Reply

    • Marie: Humidity definitely changes how I wear a scent. Some of my favourite perfumes are unbearable when there is a lot of humidity, and then there are some that I only wear in this sort of weather like FM Le Parfum de Therese, Hermes Un Jardin après la Mousson, Hermes Eau des Merveilles.

      Enjoy your time in India! September 1, 2016 at 5:48am Reply

    • Aurora: Hi Nora: I second Hermes Eau des Merveilles, also Un Jardin sur le Nil with its green mango or to roll with the tropical lushness 2 others: Cacharel, Eden, an odd perfume but interesting with tropical fruits or Estee Lauder Beyond Paradise which should perform well in heat and humidity. Hope you’re having a great time in Bangalore when you’re not working and that you will come back with great memories. September 2, 2016 at 4:02am Reply

  • kpaint: Come fall I always crave the same smells: plums, dried fruit and nuts. I’d love recommendations as I’ve not been terribly successful in finding perfumes with those notes.

    I might add that many Lutens would seem to fit the bill, but I’ve tried the Bois series and with the exception of the violet, was underwhelmed. August 30, 2016 at 12:00pm Reply

    • SophieC: Definitely heartily recommend the re issued Venezia. While not identical to the original it has all of those notes. August 30, 2016 at 3:59pm Reply

      • kpaint: I’ve never tried any of the Biagottis, and this one was totally off my radar. Thanks! On to the list it goes! Sounds lovely. August 31, 2016 at 3:23pm Reply

    • Kari: Kpaint, I always do a double take when I see your name here because it’s actually part of my own name.

      Have you tried Serge Lutens Boxeuses? I get quite a lot of plums from it.

      Violet Disguise by Imaginary Authors has plum, violets, and dried fruit. It’s woody and spicy. August 30, 2016 at 9:39pm Reply

      • kpaint: Ooh! Plums, violets and dried fruit sounds delectable. Thanks! Will try this one. August 31, 2016 at 3:23pm Reply

    • Neva: Hi kpaint, if you don’t mind the price issue, I can recommend the plum in Amouage Library Collection – Opus I. It’s spicy, boozy, dreamy… August 31, 2016 at 6:35am Reply

    • Caroline: It’s not on the current note listing, but Acqua di Parma’s Profumo has aplummy facet. It’s a retro, dry,not sweet, scent. For nutty, Guerlain’s Gourmand Coquin (which is sweet!) August 31, 2016 at 8:42am Reply

    • Morelle: Archives 69 by Etat Libre d’Orange might suit you, it has a distinct plum note. But be warned, there is some nitrile note in there that can spoil it for you if you are averse to it. August 31, 2016 at 6:35pm Reply

    • marymary: serge lutens arabie. September 1, 2016 at 8:48am Reply

      • Kari: Ditto, and I can’t believe I didn’t suggest it. I think of Arabie as such a spice-laden scent that I forget about the heavy dried fruit and nuts. It’s lovely. September 1, 2016 at 9:12pm Reply

    • Nina Z: Kenzo Jungle L’Elephant is a cardamom and plum scent that might fit the bill. September 6, 2016 at 4:37pm Reply

  • Barqs: I’ll be in Paris next week for two days. I was reading your wonderful article on shopping in Paris, and I had a question:

    Which Amin Kader boutique is the prettiest? I am a fan of Santa Maria Novella, and this boutique carries the line. There are two boutiques, one of the right bank one on the left bank.

    Which one is recommended? Maybe both? August 30, 2016 at 1:51pm Reply

  • Stephanie: Hi Victoria, Hi All,

    I love this blog. Since I always look forward to the “Recommend Me” threads I decided to jump in with a question of my own.

    This month I turned 55. I’m determined to take better care of myself and I’m starting with finding a new signature sent! I wore Coco edp for many years(15ish?) and I just love the drydown. But now it just smells sharp and cheap and gives me a migraine. (Not sure if it’s my own chemistry changing or the reformulation but it’s not good.) For the past year or so I’ve been wearing Rive Gauche (most of the time) and Bois des Iles (some of the time). Chanel 19 does not work for me (I give off the ‘bug spray’ note!) and Cristalle edt only lasts approx. 10 minutes. Many of the other Chanels take me to directly to migraine city.
    I’d love to find something elegant, and sophisticated (no single flowers, please!) to wear every day. Does anything come to mind? August 30, 2016 at 3:17pm Reply

    • SophieC: The Ormonde Jayne line has some truly lovely scents- and you can order a sample pack fairly efficiently. From what you have worn you might also like Noir Epices by Malle. Enjoy the search that is after all part of the pleasure. Maybe try Caleche too? August 30, 2016 at 4:01pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: Hi Stephanie, lovely question. Let me think…I am prone to migraines but luckily perfume is no trigger (as opposed to white wine, stress, high altitude, hormones lack of…). Elegant and sophisticated brings up my big love Heure Exquise (Annick Goutal) but it may be too reminiscent of no 19. It is softer, and not so bitter. Maybe you could try Acqua di Parma Iris Nobile EdP, lovely golden, elegant. Have you tried any of the Chanel Exclusives? 31 Rue Cambon is very elegant, and suitable for every day wear. A lovely elegant perfume is Tom Ford’s Fleur de Chine, it is discontinued but still available. Ofcourse there is the new Chanel 5 l’Eau, I haven’t smelled it yet but it has received favourable reviews. Have you ever smelled an Amouage? Maybe Dia or Journey? Or even Beloved, all very elegant and befitting a 55th! If you wish to try a more niche perfume you maybe would like Andy Tauer’s Noontide Petals. Very good quality. Have you tried any of the Ormonde Jaynes? Champaca or darker green Woman? Both Tauer and Ormonde Jayne do sample sets. Lastly a house to explore maybe Le Galion, Sortilege? Good luck and please report back! August 30, 2016 at 4:09pm Reply

    • Aurora: Lots of good recommendations. I will add Jean Patou 1000. August 31, 2016 at 5:49am Reply

      • Aurora: And Jour d’Hermes. September 2, 2016 at 1:03pm Reply

    • Gabriela: Have you tried Chamade? Or Cuir de Lamcome? August 31, 2016 at 4:00pm Reply

    • Gabriela: Have you tried Chamade? Or Cuir de Lancôme? August 31, 2016 at 4:02pm Reply

    • Marie: I agree with the Ormonde Jayne recommendation, especially Tolu could be right up your alley. September 1, 2016 at 5:50am Reply

  • Cornelia Blimber: Life is hard in the City of Migraine. I know. Triggers are for me the full moon and when migraine is there, I cannot wear every perfume: only Shalimar in every concentration, Eau de Mûre MPG, Nuit Etoilée Goutal. Perfume doesnot trigger migraine for me, only Carnal Flower does.
    You are looking for something sophisticated, elegant, for every day wearing.
    Hamamelis gave you already great suggestions. I would like to ad:
    Bottega Veneta, easy to wear, light leather, elegant.
    Nuit de Longchamp, Lubin. Has an enchanting rose note.
    Féminité du Bois, Lutens. Woody but not heavy, some fruit, burt not too sweet.
    My elegant every day perfume: Arpège.
    Chant d’ Arômes, Guerlain.

    Good luck! August 30, 2016 at 4:43pm Reply

  • Malmaison: I always get great suggestions here so will throw the floor open for more: best green spring-like fragrance for someone a bit scared of galbanum?

    As a point of reference my two go-to spring fragrances are CB I Hate Perfumes To See a Flower, which I adore – petals, wet earth, absolute spring flower beauty; and Byredo La Tulipe, which I find very crisp and rhubarby; almost-but-not-quite laundry detergent fresh, but thankfully swerving at the last minute to avoid the dreaded white musk drydown, on me at least.

    Apart from those though I’ve never really tried many green fragrances, sticking to oriental/woody in winter and BIG WHITE FLORALS in summer. However this year I want to expand my horizons. I am imagining something that is light on the galbanum, with a leaning towards florists-shop freshness and a general sense of dewy petals and rain in the wind.

    Any spring flower suggestions would be most gratefully received! August 30, 2016 at 11:21pm Reply

    • Hamamelis: Hi Malmaison, what about Hermes Un Jardin sur le Toit? Or Ostara, discontinued but still available, it maybe be a fitting compromise between BWF and a freen floral. Good luck! August 31, 2016 at 6:27am Reply

      • Malmaison: I’ve tried to get hold of Ostara but with no luck. The Hermes will be easier to find though, I’m about to go overseas on a business trip so shall check the duty free and give it a whirl. Thank you! September 23, 2016 at 5:11pm Reply

    • Aurora: Also l’Artisan Parfumeur La Chasse aux Papillons is a light floral, very lovely even though it doesn’t last very long, or l’Ete en douce from the same house, a green floral (but no galbanum) or Paul Emilien Une Belle Journee, these last are slightly minty so you have to like that. August 31, 2016 at 7:48am Reply

      • Malmaison: I love La Chasse and do actually own it, and wear it to death every spring – but I’ve never tried l’Ete en Douce. Galbanum-free green floral is exactly what I want and I feel pretty sure I can handle the mint. I’ve never heard of the last one you mention, time for a visit to Surrender to Chance! Thanks for your suggestions. September 23, 2016 at 5:13pm Reply

    • kpaint: Spring green florals I love: Trèfle Pur by Atelier Cologne, Parfums delRae Wit, Balenciaga Paris, Cartier Baiser Volé EDP, Hermès Muguet Porcelaine, Ormonde Jayne Sampaquita, Carillon pour un Ange by Andy Tauer.

      I am at this moment wearing one of the most gorgeous green florals, if not most gorgeous florals, period – Mon Jardin by Bottega Profumiera. I got it in an Olfatif (subscription) box and last time I looked, they were the only ones selling it, and only selling full bottles. It’s now available as a sample from Twisted Lily and directly from the manufacturer. For now, I’m hoarding my own little sample… August 31, 2016 at 4:10pm Reply

      • Malmaison: Thank you so much – what a wonderful list! I have noted them all down and particularly like the sound of Mon Jardin. I think I’ve tried Trèfle Pur in the past and really liked it, that’s a good reminder. September 23, 2016 at 5:15pm Reply

    • marymary: Anais Anais; eau de camille September 1, 2016 at 8:47am Reply

      • Aurora: Anais Anais is lovely but it has a distinct note of galbanum. September 2, 2016 at 12:57pm Reply

    • Mia: How about Smell Bent Florist’s fridge? It would fit the florists-shop freshness and rain in the wind. Very affordable and available in 4 ml samples. September 1, 2016 at 2:30pm Reply

      • Malmaison: The name alone makes me want to give it a try! Great suggestion, thanks so much. September 23, 2016 at 5:10pm Reply

  • Surbhi: I recently tried Clive Chrstian’s V. I liked it for fist few minutes but after that I couldn’t stand it. I washed my hands but I could still smell it. I smelled a strong perfume on it to get over it.

    I wanted to know if there is a way to remove a perfume easily from skin. Also, we always talk about the ones we liked. Maybe we should share the one we absolutely dislike. This one will go in that category for me. August 31, 2016 at 2:59pm Reply

    • Aurora: Hello Surbhi: Look up Victoria’s great post on ‘how to remove unwanted perfume’. September 2, 2016 at 1:39pm Reply

  • Cheri: Hello!
    I have a hard time with scents changing dramatically once I spray/dab them on my skin. Recently I went to Sephora and the sales person and I both tired on a variety of scents. I was shocked by how differently they smelled on me. Often much more medicinal, earthy or spicy on me than on him. Worst of all, I dislike those scents! For example Alien smells absolutely awful on me! Does anyone know why the scents change so much? August 31, 2016 at 5:50pm Reply

    • Aurora: Hello: it’s our skin chemistry which is responsible for change in perfume from one person to another. September 2, 2016 at 4:08am Reply

      • Cheri: Thank you Aurora, I suppose I had better not make any blind purchases, and always order a sample! September 2, 2016 at 3:39pm Reply

  • Laura: Hi there,
    I love Chanel Allure Sensuelle, it seems to me that it has a spicy wibe, which is very appealing to me. However, I am on a limited budget, so I would like something not so expensive, but with the wibe of Chanel. Could you recommend me a fragrance in this sense? LOngevity is also important. Thank you! September 1, 2016 at 9:31am Reply

    • Aurora: You might try Yves Rocher So Elixir, it shares notes with Allure Sensuelle and is not expensive. September 2, 2016 at 5:56am Reply

  • Surbhi: All,

    I have a bad question. I wore Carnal flower so much in last 2 months that I can’t smell it anymore. I put it on me but I notice it for maybe a second and no smell afterwards. Maybe I need to stop wearing it for a while but that means I need to find a fragrance for hot and humid weather. I like hot and humid. My favorites so far aren’t working. All seems that they are spring, fall or winter appropriate. Not for hot summer.

    I find it very difficult to find a perfume that I like. And once I like it I wear it to the point that I can’t smell it anymore.

    I can’t try too many perfumes (having some breathing trouble and docs don’t know the cause. They did tell me that I can wear perfume its ok).

    At this point I can’t even figure out where to start and what am I looking for in the summer fragrance. so say tomorrow morning I Am not wearing CF but then I can’t figure out what should I try even if I have access to many perfumes or samples. I almost wished for cooler weather so I can try different perfume. September 2, 2016 at 1:00am Reply

    • Surbhi: Any ideas or suggestions for a fresh scent ? Thanks a lot for your time and Victoria for providing a forum. I haven’t been smelling much recently. So, I just read your blog. September 2, 2016 at 1:03am Reply

      • Aurora: This summer I found that the cologne-like Philosophy Pure Grace was performing very well to fight heat and humidity, it lasts very well on my skin. Hermes Un Jardin sur le Nil has been mentioned several times in the thread, I adore it, and Eau des Merveilles too. There is also Bvlgari Eaux Parfumees: Au The Vert, and Au The Rouge are my favorites, but there is also Au The Blanc and Bleu. September 2, 2016 at 1:49pm Reply

  • Nicole: How does the Serge Lutens Fleurs D’Oranger compare to Mazzolari’s Fleurs D’oranger and Jo Malone’s Orange Blossom Cologne?

    I have Serge Lutens and it’s my absolute favorite.

    What are your thoughts and others you suggest I try?

    Orange blossoms are my favorite scent. I add orange blossom water to my baths, a drop in dark coffees, a couple drops in banana bread and cheesecake, and during the spin cycle when washing my sheets and then line dry them.

    I appreciate many florals as well though – rose, jasmine, gardenia, lily of the valley…

    Can you suggest something a little different for fall and winter in Virginia?

    Thank you. I appreciate any feedback. September 2, 2016 at 12:18pm Reply

    • Surbhi: le fille de berlin ? its a rose scent with some spiciness for winter but still floral. September 2, 2016 at 12:33pm Reply

      • Nicole: Thank you. That sounds nice. September 3, 2016 at 1:01am Reply

    • Victoria: Lutens’s is more of dark, rich flower, with lots of tuberose and spicy notes, where the others are more like colognes. It would make a great fall perfume, I think. You might also want to try Lutens’s Fleurs de Citronnier, which is fresher, brighter, drier. September 2, 2016 at 1:13pm Reply

      • Surbhi: Was this reply reply for me or Nicole. I suggested Le file to Nicole as she is looking for a fall fragrance. September 2, 2016 at 1:26pm Reply

      • Nicole: Thank you, Victoria. I’m going to look for samples of both suggestions. September 3, 2016 at 1:04am Reply

        • Victoria: You’re welcome! Don’t hesitate to post follow up questions in this or our next thread, and we will help you find the right perfume. 🙂 September 4, 2016 at 5:34am Reply

  • Almi: Thank you Victoria for placing this thread again! I love it! Late summer/early autmn I crave figs and will love to have an almost spicy scent in which figs are a predominant note. Being incredibly poetic, if I may, I want to smell of late summer. Can you or anyone recommend me a scent with this profile? September 3, 2016 at 7:03am Reply

  • Almi: Thank you Victoria for placing this thread again! I love it! Late summer/early autmn I crave figs and will love to have an almost spicy scent in which figs are a predominant note. Being incredibly poetic, if I may, I want to smell of late summer. Can you or anyone recommend me a scent with this profile?

    Also, I discovered two new summer favorites: Jo Malone’s Mimosa and Cardamom and Phenhaligon’s Luna. Both scents are amazing because I find them simple yet complex and a totaly different scent for summer. September 3, 2016 at 7:07am Reply

    • Kari: Almi, Imaginary Authors Yesterday Haze is a scent I really like that has fig, iris, Tonka, and it’s a bit spicy and nutty.

      L’Artisan Premier Figuier Extreme also comes to mind. September 4, 2016 at 1:12am Reply

    • Aurora: Yes, Premier Figuier Extreme and Premier Figuier are very good if you also like coconut, otherwise the most fig like perfume I know is Diptyque Philosykos, Acqua di Parma Fico di Amalfi is a bright citrusy fig, Hermes Un Jardin en Mediterranee is described as aromatic and fresh spicy, and another l’Artisan Parfumeur, Caligna is an aromatic fig. Good luck in your search. September 4, 2016 at 2:51pm Reply

    • GinaP: Have you tried Ninfeo Mio? It’s my favorite fig, with a lot of green, plus a bit of subtle skank that some people don’t like but I love. September 5, 2016 at 2:07am Reply

      • Almi: Thank you so much for the wonderful suggestions! I have tried Ninfeo Mio, although it was quite some time ago. I will certainly give it a try. Also, I will sample these options and find which one suits me best. Thanks again to all of you!! September 5, 2016 at 2:29am Reply

  • Karen: Can anyone recommend a perfume similar to the ORIGINAL formulation of Bond No. 9’s “Success is a Job in New York” (dating from 2009-2011)? It was not only my signature scent, it was my perfume love of a lifetime! I was heartbroken when they reformulated it and changed it entirely (even renaming it “Success is the Essence of New York” though they sold it in the same bottle). I have searched and sniffed through hundreds of perfumes in the years since and not found anything that comes close at all. Thank you for any help or suggestions!! September 8, 2016 at 2:06pm Reply

    • Aurora: I’m so sorry your favorite was reformulated. I don’t think you can totally replace it, however, have you tried Guerlain Spiritueuse Double Vanille, it’s a vanilla warm spicy scent not dissimilar, or I see on Fragrantica that Parfum de Nicolai (a French House) lhas 2 vanilla: Vanille Tonka and Vanille Intense. Or for a budget friendly option in summer there is a very good cologne Couvent des Minimes Eau des Missions often compared to Spiritueuse Double Vanille. Best of luck. September 14, 2016 at 7:27am Reply

  • Michele: I love Serge Lutens Chergui – I need assistance in extending the scent or enhancing it-what scent would you recommend and formulation to keep it one the slightly feminine side? Lotion? Oil? another perfume?
    thank you September 8, 2016 at 3:31pm Reply

    • Aurora: You could try an unscented lotion like Vanicream which is excellent for your skin too. September 15, 2016 at 9:27am Reply

      • Michele: Hello aurora – I don’t understand – vani cream? How would that enhance the scent – September 15, 2016 at 3:16pm Reply

        • Victoria: It would make it last longer. September 15, 2016 at 3:32pm Reply

          • Michele: Thank you – I never
            Have heard this September 15, 2016 at 3:44pm Reply

  • Cynthia Kritikos: I have only worn about 3 perfumes in my life but mostly one. Deneuve, the fragrance, was released in 1986. Catherine Deneuve’s perfume was discontinued and I have always purchased the copycat version at Long Lost Perfumes or Irma Shorell but I don’t think he’s making anymore. Found a description online which says it It opens with soapy aldehydes and a bright flash of bergamot, with a thin gauzy veil of galbanum. There’s a general impression of “green,” but it’s hazy and diffuse, with the florals peeking through almost immediately. And those florals! Beautifully blended, and very natural-smelling. It’s a very classic mix, reminiscent of Patou Joy or Chanel No. 5 in that rose-jasmine-ylang accord, with a delicate layer of metallic/spicy hyacinth and sprightly lily of the valley. This is all set on a base of great refinement, all oakmoss and iris and soft musk, with some gentle woods for strength and a hint of civet for body warmth.The notes, according to Fragrantica: aldehydes, galbanum, bergamot, green notes, neroli, basil, iris, jasmine, hyacinth, ylang, rose, lily of the valley, violet, musk, sandalwood, oakmoss, cedarwood, and cive. The Perfumed Court site says the notes are Notes (from the Perfumed Court): galbanum, bergamot, neroli, basil, aldehyde, rose, muguet, jasmine, orris, ylang-ylang, violet, hyacinth, oakmoss, musk, cedarwood, sandalwood and civet. So I don’t know who’s right. All I know is I want it. Does anyone know of something like it or the same?
    Thank you September 15, 2016 at 2:30am Reply

    • Aurora: Hello Cynthia, have you tried Jacomo Silences? Silences has the bergamot and galbanum and several of the flowers in common with Deneuve so that might be an option. If you haven’t already give a chance to Chanel No 19 Eau de Parfum (it’s more floral than the regular eau de toilette) too, it comes pretty close too. Also, Jean-Louis Scherrer, try both the eau de toilette and the eau de parfum to see which one you like best, it’s a pretty good fit too, shares many notes with your beloved Deneuve, nothing can completely replace it. Hope this will help you a little bit. Good luck! September 18, 2016 at 3:37pm Reply

  • Cynthia Kritikos: Thank you so much for the suggestions! I was wondering if anyone could make it from scratch. I don’t know who makes perfume though. September 22, 2016 at 4:30am Reply

    • Aurora: Most welcome Cynthia, it’s always both very interesting and a challenge to try and replace a discontinued perfume. About finding a perfumer who does bespoke perfumes where I live, in the UK there is Floris, a very well respected house but I don’t know where you are located. Perhaps do an internet search under ‘bespoke perfume’. The thing is it’s usually pretty expensive. All the best. September 24, 2016 at 5:46am Reply

  • Adeline: Hello!! I’m also in need of your advice – I’m looking for some warm perfume (but not overwhelming) for fall. For cold seasons I wore dolce and gabbana – pour femme, ysl cinema, tom ford – jasmine rouge (usually on special occasions). For summer I love Hermes – un jardin apres la mousson, dolce and gabbana light blue, Aqua di Parma – mandoro di sicilia.. This week I’ve tried jersey, beige de Chanel exclusifs, dolce gabbana scents… But I’m still looking for my perfect fall perfume!) October 23, 2016 at 2:56pm Reply

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