Our “Recommend Me a Perfume” thread is open this week. You can use this space to find perfume recommendations, to share your discoveries and favorite scents, and to ask any questions about scents, aromas and flavors.
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
228 Comments
Dove: I’m interested in perfumes with a cherry note. I have heard that Clinique makes an Aromatic Black Cherry. I also heard of Mac Ruby Woo. Do these kind of fragrances mix well with leather powerhouses? April 27, 2020 at 7:12am
Hollis: Have you also sniffed Lost Cherry from Tom Ford? It’s sinfully gorgeous, a dark cherry dream. April 27, 2020 at 7:38am
Christine Kalleeny: I agree. But the price is exorbitant…prohibitive for me anyway. April 27, 2020 at 12:21pm
Hollis: Same – I just have a teeny sample. As beautiful as they are, I do think the Tom Ford fragrances are overpriced. April 27, 2020 at 12:41pm
David: I really want to give this a sniff, despite the bit of controversy. April 28, 2020 at 7:08am
Dami: I hear that Universal Supreme by Blackbird is beautiful and complex, in addition to having a cherry note. April 27, 2020 at 9:12am
Dove: Thank you fro introducing me to a new house! April 28, 2020 at 7:09am
Debby: Guerlain’s Black Perfecto is a delicious cherry and leather. April 27, 2020 at 10:56am
Dove: I didn’t know Guerlain did a cherry and leather fragrance. Thank you! April 28, 2020 at 7:10am
Nina Zolotow: Lost Cherry is beautiful but also very expensive! It is somewhat similar to Serge Lutens Rahat Loukhoum, which definitely also has a cherry note. It’s a weirdly comforting scent. Luctor Et Emergo from The People of the Labyrinths is also in the same vein, and includes a sour cherry note as well as almond. April 27, 2020 at 12:47pm
Dove: Thank you for the recommendations, especially for The People of the Labyrinths. April 28, 2020 at 7:12am
Sharon: Seconding the rec for Guerlain La Petite Robe Noire Black Perfecto, (leather, rose, and cherries) but adding Viktor & Rolf Magic Dancing Roses for a gorgeous Cherry Liqueur note. April 27, 2020 at 1:16pm
Dove: I have heard a lot of fun things about Viktor & Rolf. Thank you! April 28, 2020 at 7:14am
KatieAnn: Hi Dove. Have you tried Lolita Lempicka (the original in the purple bottle)? It has a very beautiful cherry note. Good luck with your search! April 27, 2020 at 1:47pm
Dove: I can’t believe I have never searched out Lolita Lempicka fragrances. Thank you! April 28, 2020 at 7:15am
Johanna: Is the 1997 version still in production? I would love to try. I can only find iterations of it without the cherry note. May 10, 2020 at 5:54am
Aurora: Yes, It’s been reformulated and I think the bottle has change too. You should be able to still get the original version online at some discounters maybe and ebay. May 10, 2020 at 4:28pm
Johanna: Thank you Aurora! Yes, the bottle looks different. It’s plain colour now, no silver. I will have another look at eBay. May 10, 2020 at 4:30pm
OnWingsofSaffron: Louve by Serge Lutens—try finding it on ebay, then the price‘l be okay. I buy 95% of all my perfumes on ebay and only twice or three times was I duped. April 27, 2020 at 3:52pm
Dove: Thank you for your vote of confidence about ebay buying….I had been apprehensive, but even though there is a risk, I will give it a try. April 28, 2020 at 7:17am
Kathy: I have and like Clinique Aromatics Black Cherry. I found it to be a tobacco cherry and I could see it layered with leather notes. I do enjoy it but it’s not quite my style. I second the vote for LPRN Black Perfecto. I am more familiar with the edp and you will find cherries, rose and leather there. Both edp and the edt “Florale” are going for a song on various discounters – I think it’s a safe blind buy for sweet non-powdery rose fans. May 2, 2020 at 1:35pm
Dami: I’d recommend Vanille by Mona di Orio, an elegant spicy non-gourmand vanilla scent with one of the most interesting evolutions I have ever tried. Perfect for both cold and warm days. April 27, 2020 at 9:08am
Dove: This sounds amazing, especially the non-gourmand vanilla. April 28, 2020 at 7:18am
Robin Alexander: Cartier Delices have a cherry note. Very pretty perfumey perfume April 27, 2020 at 9:15am
Dove: have had good luck with Cartier fragrances, so I’ll give Delices a try. Thank you! April 28, 2020 at 7:19am
Robin Alexander: You’re welcome. I have the EDP, which I liked better than the EDT, but you may like either one. There is also Delices Eau Fruitee (I believe) which may also be a little different, I don’t remember trying it. I do believe that all of these fragrances are discontinued so it may take some hunting to find them. April 28, 2020 at 9:35am
Shelley: I was a devoted Helmut Lang fan when the original came out. The re-release in 2014 is just not the same. I have searched for something similar (Musc Ravageur, Le Labo Labdanum 18, etc.) and have been mildly satisfied. I’m looking for floral/woody/aromatic/spicy! Any ideas would be so appreciated. Many thanks! April 27, 2020 at 9:20am
Karen B: Hi Shelley! Try Le Labo Gaiac and CDG monocle Hinoki. Both woody and gorg! CDG Kyoto is lovely as is Man (the one in the silver bottle) xx April 27, 2020 at 11:04am
Shelley: Thank you Karen! I will try them both! And eBay! April 27, 2020 at 11:33am
Ninon: I adore Hinoki! April 30, 2020 at 2:36pm
Karen B: eBay also have a small variety of HL scents….most are from Europe/US.
Good luck! Xx April 27, 2020 at 11:11am
Aurora: Hello Shelley: Maybe if what you miss is the lavender note, Tom Ford has 2 Lavender Extreme which has the woody base you favour and Lavender Palm which I am not familiar with. Also Chanel Jersey is very good and having had a really good experience with Rituals maybe test their brand new Ritual of Jin I think is the name, lavender and wood are the notes. April 27, 2020 at 12:28pm
Shelley: Hi Aurora – Thank you for these ideas. I haven’t’ thought about TF in a long time – might be the moment to rediscover! And I like other Rituals products — will check out as well. Thank you! April 27, 2020 at 12:35pm
John: I hate to sound like I’m shilling for a House (I’ve mentioned it three times in one day), but you might also consider Caron Pour un Homme… A great lavender-forward scent with vanilla, must and what I’d consider stealth-cedar. April 28, 2020 at 11:32pm
Aurora: Sorry, It’s Jing, a mist for pillows promoting calm. Good luck for your finding an older HL on ebay too. April 27, 2020 at 12:33pm
Carina: I have this pillow spray and loooove it – although I usually am not fond of lavender. I associate it with old ladys… April 27, 2020 at 3:40pm
Aurora: Hello Carina: Good to know, every Rituals product I’ve got has been outstanding. April 27, 2020 at 5:29pm
Anne: Hello, I used to love helmut lang! You should try Boy from Chanel les exclusifs. You might enjoy it. April 27, 2020 at 4:11pm
Shelley: Hi Anne- thank you so much for this! I will definitely check Boy out! April 27, 2020 at 4:17pm
Hollis: I love Boy – like a barbershop, so clean and fresh! April 28, 2020 at 7:15am
Eudora: Hello Anne and all! I had a sample of Boy months ago and I liked it a lot. Not love, but It has been memorable and enjoyable for sure. Can you tell me more fragances similar to Boy? Thanks! How would you describe it? April 28, 2020 at 3:13pm
Anne: I really really enjoyed Boy. I didn’t really expect it but it felt so clean and comforting and not in a pretty flower way, more in a medicinal way ( guess it s the lavender). The lavender is then warmed up by wood and especially sandal wood which is my favourite note. I don’t really know how to describe it better, it did remind me of Elmut Lang although Elmut Lang was probably more musky at the end. When I tried it, I just kept going to smell my wrist and the jumper I sprayed it on. Might have to revisit and splash on a bottle. Hope this helps April 28, 2020 at 3:21pm
Eudora: Yes, I will revisit when the circumstances…Hollis described it as barbershop… And it made me remember I also enjoyed a lot a sample from Diptyque that I labeled as barbershop. Do you know about it? I don’t remember the name…also, in which family boy belongs? Green? April 28, 2020 at 4:57pm
Eudora: Hello again, reading about lavander I thougt that you would like Caron pour un homme. I just love it. Always. It is lovely, clean and conforting. And also “pour a femme”… April 29, 2020 at 3:32pm
Anne: Just a question for you all perfume lover. If you had to have just one, for ever and all year round. Which one would it be and why ?
(Basically what is your signature scent, I haven’t got any, I keep switching, I wish I could have one, I wish people would say something like « that is just you », so I m interested to see which one is just you). Thank you April 27, 2020 at 9:22am
Wendyr: My signature is Frederic Malle Carnal Flower:)
Loved it the first time I wore it and the romance continues. April 27, 2020 at 9:32am
Anne: What a stunning signature scent. Thank you for your reply. April 27, 2020 at 4:20pm
Mai: Oh, I love so many perfumes… But if I had to choose a single one, a signature, it would be Chanel N5 L’Eau! One of my absolute favourites, so clean, cozy, refined, light and easy to wear… beautiful!
Chanel N5 Eau Première would be a close, clooose second! Love the vanilla and ylang ylang! April 27, 2020 at 9:49am
Anne: Sounds lovely! I should revisite then. Thank you April 27, 2020 at 4:21pm
Mai: You’re very welcome! April 28, 2020 at 12:38pm
Aurora: Hi, if I had a signature it would be vintage Hermes Caleche, my most worn perfume. April 27, 2020 at 12:36pm
Anne: Oh just like my friend! Just gorgeous. She wears Calèche. She recently changed for eau des Merveilles and almost had a mutiny on her hands. Thank you! April 27, 2020 at 4:24pm
Alex: Have you read Perfumes-The A-Z Guide (2008)? In it Tania Sanchez suggests 6 steps in the development of a perfume lover. Like you, I was searching for my ‘signature’ scent when I read it. Afterwards I felt less of a need to. Until then I had had signature scents during different phases of my life, the last one being Alexander McQueen’s Kingdom, which was discontinued in the late 2000’s. Funnily enough, Luca Turin (co-author of the book) was not a fan of it (1/5 stars), whereas Victoria had the same take on it as I did in her 2007 review and gave it a 4/5. I tend toward stereotypically fall & winter scents and have a harder time finding ‘spring’ & ‘summer’ fragrances. But if I had to wear one all year and forever, it would also be Carnal Flower. A beautiful green tuberose with a lot of presence and longevity. April 27, 2020 at 1:00pm
Anne: Thank you Alex! I haven’t read that perfume guide. I will definitely look into it. Might ease my « sorrow » of not having my scent .
Carnal flower is coming back often as a signature scent. It is too much of a power house for me and totally wears me. I wish I could pull it off. It s stunning!!!! April 27, 2020 at 4:18pm
Alex: Anne, I totally understand about CF! Have you tried anything from Neela Vermeire? I love Pichola. One of those scents that is more than the sum of its parts, in my opinion. Very unique (& not overpowering). Downside is that longevity is only a few hours. April 27, 2020 at 7:22pm
Anne: Thank you! I have never heard of this house. Will completely check it out. April 28, 2020 at 12:22pm
Marie: If I had to choose, it would be Eau de Shalimar as it is sparkly, fresh, tinyyy bit animalic and cozy vanilla. Works all day every day.
As a close second, (and as Eau de Shalimar is long discontinued) comes Esprit d’Oscar by Oscar de la Renta. Bittersweet, cheerful and yet somewhat melancholic, powdery, a little sister of L’Heure Bleue. Also discontinued… April 27, 2020 at 3:31pm
Anne: Sounds so lovely. Thank you. April 27, 2020 at 4:26pm
Carina: If I could wear just one perfume for the rest of my life, it would be:
The different company pure eve
It has mimosa, white rose, calisson, musk, cedar and amber in it.
It smells feminine, a bit vanilla-y, a little bit like almond, powdery, creamy, like a woolen blanket. Soft AND sexy… April 27, 2020 at 3:48pm
Anne: I have never tried anything from that house. I will look into it. Thank you! You must smell divine. April 27, 2020 at 4:27pm
Rakasa: Hands down, when forced to choose, I always pick Hermes Osmanthe Yunnan. Osmanthus Absolue is such a unique scent with so many intriguing dimensions. The absolute itself is like a perfume in its own right. But I truly adore how Jean Claude Ellena made it soar! Osmanthe Yunnan is utterly unforgettable, yet also unpretentious; the very best of Hermes — ever. April 27, 2020 at 4:44pm
Anne: Oh that is lovely. Thank you April 28, 2020 at 12:23pm
Peter: Hard to pick one. I dream of the vintages: Mitsouko, Miss Dior and Vol de Nuit. I guess my signature could be the Chypre family. I’ve found some beautiful Niche versions that seem to feature oakmoss: Bogue “Maai”, Rogue “Chypre-Siam”, and Papillon “Dryad”.
There’s something about Frederic Malle “Noir Epices” (not a Chypre) that makes me think it could be a signature. April 27, 2020 at 4:50pm
Aurora: Oh Yes Noir Epices is so special and elegant. April 27, 2020 at 5:33pm
Anne: Will look into noir epice. I do tend to gravitate towards not too sweet scent so it might work for me. April 28, 2020 at 12:24pm
Peter: Howdy Anne,
I also love Carnal Flower and Portrait of a Lady from the Malle line. But there’s something dark and moody about Noir Epices. Most reviews call it an Oriental, but I reread Victoria’s review and she classifies it as a Chypre. No wonder I love it so much. April 28, 2020 at 7:45pm
Lily: Oof, what a question! I am so glad I will never have to do this for real, but if I had to – ELDO Noel au Balcon. It is one of the 3 scents that I feel most closely map my psyche/personality (the others are Hermès Galop and Houbigant Orangers en Fleur) and the one of those 3 that encompasses the most “reasons” for wear. Which for me are
-my own resonance with the scent
-my sense of comfort or delight from the sensory beauty of it
-beauty for others
-what it tells others about my style/taste/aesthetic
-the mood it evokes in others
Noel is the only one (IMO) which does all of them. It has a VERY clear playful/seductive/festive energy, while the others could go several ways. And since for me if I were to ever wear perfume for someone else one of the biggest intentions would be seduction…. April 28, 2020 at 10:54am
Klaas: I’ve had two signature scents, that marked two distinct periods in my life. The first was Chanel pour Monsieur. It’s been described as Carry Grant in a bottle and I couldn’t agree more! My second was Guerlain Vol de Nuit. I stopped using it when they sneakily started to tweak the formula to cut costs in the end of the 90’s. It just stopped seducing me.
Now I don’t have one particular scent that I wear all the time. The concept of wearing just the one fragrance doesn’t appeal to me anymore. I like to change fragrances according to my moods, the weather and different occasions. I only buy small bottles and samples so I can be ecclectic in my choices. Using different fragrances gives me a lot of joy, I would not go back to wearing just one ‘signature’ scent.
If I could wear only one perfume it would be De Nicolai Cedrat Intense. Not because it is my most loved perfume, but because it is discreet, pleasant to wear and so versatile it can be worn at the gym, at work and at theatre. But like I said, I’d rather use different fragrances then to stick to just the one! April 28, 2020 at 3:29pm
John: Always a lovely question to return to… I expect it changes as life goes on, however. When I was a teenager (80’s into 90’s), I had the remarkable good fortune to stumble onto two wonderful fragrances in succession (around 1987 and 1990 respectively), Grey Flannel and Fahrenheit; each was, in its moment, in its best formulation. [Actually, for the record, my wife, who knew me when, recently bought me a little bottle of the newest formulation of Fahrenheit and it is excellent.] When I got back into fragrances a few years ago, I had the good or bad fortune to try Eau Sauvage as my first blind attempt at smelling scent again…This is such a wonderful composition it spoiled me for anything else for a while and made judging other fragrances problematic just as I was trying to develop my nose. I ended up sampling Caron Pour un Homme almost by accident and something stuck. I’m not sure if I can say why. I’ve tried (and bought) other great things since, and a few (like another Caron, Le Troisième Homme, or Guerlain’s Habit Rouge) have threatened to taken its place but so far it seems to be the one I ‘need’ most often, in moments of joy or levity or grim hard going or despair. I do keep looking though (see below), though sometimes I think all this wandering is just to make the road home that much clearer. April 28, 2020 at 6:31pm
Fazal: I don’t have one signature perfume but if I have to choose 3 for life, one would be original Dior Homme that came out in 2005 and has been through several reformulations. The latest reformulation is a completely different scent though.
If you can get your hands on the original version (in case you have not smelled it), it smells lovely on both sexes. In fact, it might be even better on women as many men stayed away from it due to its signature lipstick vibe. April 29, 2020 at 4:51am
Nancy Chan: Hi Anne, this is a question which I ask myself. My favourite all time perfume is Hermes’s Osmanthe Yunnan. A very uplifting, beautiful fragrance which attract compliments from colleagues. April 29, 2020 at 11:00am
Janet: For years it was Cristalle. I fell hard for that one. These days I find it less appealing and no matter what formulation, it never seems as good as it did in the 1980s. I’ve been on the hunt for another signature scent for about 10 years now… April 29, 2020 at 11:56am
CarysW: I’m hard pushed getting it down to six. I couldn’t manage without a separate winter and a summer perfume though – which would be Chanel Coromandel, and Diptyque L’Ombre dans l’eau. Although if you asked me tomorrow it would probably be Ormonde Jayne Woman and Etat Libre’s You or Someone Like You. April 30, 2020 at 4:48am
Ninon: I don’t have a signature, but Coromandel would be a candidate. April 30, 2020 at 2:38pm
carole: If I had to pick just one, I’d go with Chanel Eau de Cologne. I love it-on my third enormous bottle of it. It’s like a perfect white shirt-classic, elegant, and versatile. April 30, 2020 at 6:14pm
Giovanna: Prada Infusion d’Iris (original formula, NOT the disappointing 2015 reformulation)
I had been searching for a signature perfume for a very long time, and it was love at first sniff. May 9, 2020 at 12:51pm
Lainey: Hi Anne! My stranded-on-a-desert-island perfume would be either Caron’s Bellodgia, Chanel’s Cristalle EDT, or The Different Company’s I miss Violet. if I really truly had to pick just one, it would probably be Cristalle EDT (NOT Cristalle EDP, which is quite different). I’ve been wearing Cristalle EDT since I was 28. I have quite a large perfume collection, but nothing transports me back to glorious summers on Cape Cod like my darling Cristalle. 30 years evaporates with one sniff! May 16, 2020 at 11:46pm
Wendyr: Has anyone tried the Zoologist line of perfume? It intrigues me very much, but I have never tried any of them. Recommendations? April 27, 2020 at 9:34am
Pocketvenus: Wendyr: Most are quite unique so I would definitely sample first before buying. I quite liked the original Bat which was a very unusual and striking one juxtaposing fruit and stone. It is definitely a conceptual fragrance that departs a fair bit from mainstream perfumery.
People seem to be a fan of Civet which is a sweet, rich, toffee-like take, and not nearly as animalistic as the name suggests. Nightingale is also one of the more popular ones but I haven’t tried it personally. April 27, 2020 at 10:35am
Wendyr: Thank you, that is a good idea to purchase a sampler. It does sound to me like they are very unique. April 27, 2020 at 12:28pm
Alex: I am Canadian and studied zoology, so Victor Wong’s Zoologist perfume house is always of particular interest to me. The only scents I have not yet tried are Chameleon and Sloth. My favourites are ones that are not mentioned as often as others: Macaque, a lush green scent, and Beaver, a warm, cozy animalic. Both are easy to wear in comparison to the house’s more conceptual fragrances. If you like a beeswax or ink direction, Bee and Squid will immediately transport you to a hive or the ocean! I agree with Pocketvenus; try sampling first. Note that Bat was reinterpreted in 2020. April 27, 2020 at 11:56am
Wendyr: They have samples! I am ordering:) April 27, 2020 at 5:15pm
Cathy B.: I personally love Hummingbird! I have tried samples of Civet, and I love that too. I would really like to try Bee. April 27, 2020 at 12:25pm
Wendyr: Thank you! I am going to order a sampler box. I am smitten by nature, so this line intrigues me:) April 27, 2020 at 12:29pm
Lema: You definitely have to sample them, each scent is made by a different perfumer as well. Hummingbird smells like tuttifruitti, Bat like geosmin and patchouli, the latest is Bee which is over-sweet in my view. April 27, 2020 at 1:53pm
Silvermoon: Hi Wendy! They are really fun perfumes that come in beautiful boxes. I love the animal drawings, black fold open boxes and lovely bottles. I have Nightingale, which I enjoy wearing. I also liked Civet, Bee and Moth. The perfumes are unusual enough that it would be better to test beforehand (and not just rely on description and reviews). If they have a discovery box, it would be well worth it). April 27, 2020 at 3:57pm
Wendyr: Thank you for your thoughts. Yes, I agree, sounds better to sample first and good news – they have samples to order! April 27, 2020 at 5:16pm
Peter: Hey Wendy,
Sorry, but my rely didn’t go under your comments. You may need to scroll further down. April 27, 2020 at 4:56pm
CarysW: I love Moth, but it’s definitely one to spray lightly, and I’d say an autumn/winter fragrance. Also, test first, as I suspect many might consider it a scrubber. April 30, 2020 at 4:42am
Wendyr: I ordered a bunch of samples to try. Will let everyone know my thoughts! Thank you. April 30, 2020 at 10:51am
Melanie: Hello,
I hope that everyone is well. I have a question about an ingredient. Is BHT safe in perfume? It seems to be becoming more prevalent in fragrances. I just wondered if anyone had an opinion.
Many thanks! April 27, 2020 at 10:05am
Aurora: Hello Melanie, my feeling is that as a preservative it would be used in really minute amounts so applying to skin should not be a problem, It’s used in food too, I often noticed it on cereals boxes. April 27, 2020 at 12:54pm
Sebastian: BHT is an antioxidant. It is not fragrant by itself, but it can be used in fragrances to prevent polymerization of components that do contribute to the scent, in particular Myrcenol, a relative of Citronellol, which has a fresh, floral, lime-like odour. (My reference for this is Horst Surburg, “Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials”). No negative effects of BHT seem to be known. April 29, 2020 at 6:44pm
Marsha Smith: Hey Victoria: if I ever need a quick pick me up to lift my spirits, I come and look at your photos. They convey light and elegance without being too cloying. April 27, 2020 at 10:26am
Peg: I really loved a limited Jo Malone fragrance from about 15 years ago, Bois de la Boulogne. Woody and mysterious. Any thoughts on something similar? April 27, 2020 at 10:43am
Peg Mastrianni: This is a correction, not a reply. My memory was way off this morning. The discontinued fragrance I loved by Jo Malone was Fleurs de la Fôret. Does anyone remember it and have a suggestion for something similar? April 27, 2020 at 5:01pm
Aurora: Hello Peg, I’m sorry that in the end you got no luck in getting recommendations, it seems this limited edition was just too obscure to be known by anyone. Have you tried to ask a Jo Malone counter in a department store maybe someone there would recall it? May 6, 2020 at 1:40pm
Trudy: I’d like suggestions for a replacement for Parfums Delrae “Debut” since in the fragrance company has closed its doors. Thanks in advance! April 27, 2020 at 11:03am
limegreen: Hi Trudy! Nothing can quite replace the DelRae line! I do love Heeley L’AMANDIÈRE with a beautiful linden blossom note. April 27, 2020 at 1:11pm
Trudy: Thank you for the suggestion! I have ordered a sample and can’t wait to try. April 29, 2020 at 12:25pm
Nina Zolotow: This was an extraordinary line and there really is nothing like it. If you can get your hands on vintage Diorissimo that would be the closest thing, but Diorissimo typically doesn’t age well, so you’d need to find a really pristine bottle. Here’s a suggestion for something in the same ballpark: Au Dela by Bruno Fazzolari (https://fzotic.com/all/au-dela-narcisse) April 30, 2020 at 4:43pm
Karen B: Hi, I’m looking for something as similar to Gypsy Water as possible (Byredo) But ideally not tested on animals…..
Thanks xx April 27, 2020 at 11:05am
Aurora: Hi Karen, it is richer, less sheer but Tocca Colette reminds me of Gypsy Water. April 27, 2020 at 3:55pm
Rachel: I love Dr. Hauschka and Weleda’s rose products. Does anyone know a rose perfume that is similar?
Thank you! April 27, 2020 at 12:24pm
Aurora: Hi Rachel: for a pure rose like in natural beauty products I can recommend the very simple and lovely Jurlique Essence de Rose, it comes in a rollerball, and Annick Goutal Rose Absolue and Diptyque l’Eau Rose come close but not as true as the Jurlique. April 27, 2020 at 3:48pm
Nina Zolotow: Lustre by Hiram Green is a natural rose perfume very much like the products you mention. Even though I love Hiram Green in general, I didn’t love this rose partly because it was very simple and basic, you know, like the products (which I use). April 27, 2020 at 4:16pm
Rakasa: Aesop’s Rōzu might fit the bill. The inspiration for Rozu reportedly articulates the full lifecycle of the Rose: underpinned by green, woody and lightly smoky notes—unmistakably floral, yet nuanced and expansive. It is based on a variety of rose cultivated by and named after the architect Charlotte Perriand. April 27, 2020 at 4:55pm
Rachel: Wow, thank you for all of these suggestions. I’m so happy to have these to try. I just really want that pure rose fragrance to stay with me all day 🙂 April 27, 2020 at 5:09pm
Silvermoon: Maybe it’s worth trying Fredric Malle’s Une Rose. It certainly would match with the smell of Dr H’s Rose Day Cream. Both have that fresh earthy smell layered with rose petals. April 27, 2020 at 5:31pm
Rachel: Thanks Silvermoon! I’ll try it again–it’s been some time and I remember it as being a rather complex perfume and I think it has changed a bit over the years. April 27, 2020 at 10:01pm
Silvermoon: Ah, yes, maybe it has changed. I still have the original bottle, so cannot tell you what the newer version might be like. April 28, 2020 at 3:27pm
Klaas: Hey Rachel, De Nicolai does a gorgeous rose called Rose Royale. It also comes in a 30ml. bottle, so you don’t have to break the bank to give it a try.
If you do want to break the bank, Hermes’ Rose Ikebana is a gem. A water colored rose, luminous, transparant, and with a dash of astringency from tea and rhubarb. It doesn’t pack a lot of punch for your money, but it is the most beautiful rose fragrance I know. April 28, 2020 at 3:42pm
OldcHerbaceous: I do love Rose Royale. I grow roses and it smells just like one of them. May 2, 2020 at 10:00pm
KatieAnn: Hello! Does anyone know if the “special editions” of Acqua di Parma Iris Nobile were all the same as the original? Is it only the packaging that is different? I think the first one came out in 2008. Many thanks in advance. Stay safe and healthy everyone. April 27, 2020 at 1:44pm
Rakasa: When I fell in love with Acqua di Parma’s Iris Nobile, I had to do a lot of research to discover which form that they had on offer was actually the one I most enjoyed. What I learned is that every single one is noticeably different from the rest in formula, not just packaging. The original EDP (my fave), issued in 2004, is actually more a unique Iris-Gardenia formulation. The EDT was more of a blend of iris flower with orange blossom, with an intial amazing crispness that disappeared far too quickly. Iris Noble Sublime 2012 is an entirely different formula, the least showy of the line, focused far more on ambiguities of Iris Pallida. I did not try the 2013 Acqua Nobile Iris as I had moved on to new discoveries, but Acqua di Parma advised that its formula is different than any of the other “Iris Nobile’s”. April 27, 2020 at 5:28pm
KatieAnn: Wow. Thank you for the info. It’s hard to know if the differences are intentional or due to new restrictions. Either way, it’s good to test things out, but can make it tricky to figure out what works for you. Thanks again! April 27, 2020 at 6:47pm
Aurora: Hello KatieAnn: looking at Fragrantica for Iris Nobile 2008 edition it seems that that one had oakmoss which was restricted in 2010 so I expect the following anniversary/special editions would not have oakmoss. I have the regular IN and the limited Sublime edition which is different and very beautiful too.
Stay safe too😷 April 27, 2020 at 4:04pm
KatieAnn: Hi Aurora. The oakmoss issue makes sense. I always check Fragrantica too, but have a feeling that the notes are not always correct when it comes to things like special editions. That’s why I like to ask. I’ve never tried the sublime edition. I bet it’s beautiful. Thank you for your input! April 27, 2020 at 6:50pm
Peter: Howdy Wendy,
I reviewed the Zoologist notes and did a blind buy of Camel (Arabian dried fruit) along with some samples. I fell in love with Civet which has a lush retro vibe. I immediately ordered it!
Moth had a sickly creepy note. Not for me. Tyrannosaurus Rex is an intense smoky fragrance. Interesting to sample, but unwearable. I also liked Rhinoceros, a leather with rum and grassy notes. April 27, 2020 at 4:08pm
Wendyr: Hmmm – certainly sounds like this line is very unique. They do have single samples or several collections/common notes to sample. I think it wise to try samples first. Thank you for your thoughts. April 27, 2020 at 5:18pm
Carina: I really like Jo Malone Osmanthus Blossom, but now my small sample is emoty and the parfum was a limited edition.
Does anyone have an idea for a similar scent?
Top: petitgrain and peach
Heart: osmanthus and orange blossom
Base: cashmere wood
It is a bit crazy that I like it, because oftentimes orange blossom can give me a headache… April 28, 2020 at 12:58pm
Aurora: Hi Carina: if you don’t want to chase the Jo Malone, Roger&Ballet Fleur d’Osmanthus is a citrussy take on osmanthus, I wear it every summer and It’s so affordable, no Orange blossom in it. I haven’t tried it but there is also The Different Company Osmanthus. April 28, 2020 at 5:31pm
Carina: Hi Aurora,
Thank you very much for your reply <3
In fact, I had the Roger & Gallet one, but with my skin chemistry it smelled like sweat – horrible.
But I will have a look at the TDC one, I have another perfume from them which I love, so that is a very good idea.
Thanks a lot. May 1, 2020 at 7:55pm
Annette: Dear all, I am a newcomer here. Currently I am wearing the new lˋ ombre des merveilles from Hermes. It is quite nice but unfortunately still a little bit „synthetic“. Does anyone have any recommendations about a mineral-based „stony“ perfume which is warm, not sweet and not flowery and very close to the skin? Many thanks to everybody! April 28, 2020 at 1:46pm
Klaas: Hey Annette, you mght want to give Hermes’ Terre a try. Super stony and super mineral, it is a modern classic.
Harder to find, but extremely mineral as well is Racine by Maitre Parfumeur & Gantier. It is all about vetiver, grapefruit and oakmoss, with a little jasmine and lavender thrown in there for class. It is like nothing else, so mineral and dry. I wear it a lot and I love it! April 28, 2020 at 3:49pm
Cornelia Blimber: So glad to hear this, Klaas! April 30, 2020 at 4:17pm
Klaas: Cornelia, it’s been so long! Yes, I so much enjoy that bottle of Racine you gave me! It has become one of my favorites and has been replaced with a new one since 😉 Lieve groet! May 1, 2020 at 7:02am
Aurora: Hello Annette: Also there is a mineral note in the citrussy Eau de Rochas which is a light perfume but lasts well (but my bottle is vintage so if may have changed). It’s like water on hot stones. April 28, 2020 at 5:40pm
Zoe: Dear all,
I am looking for a spicy scent for my sister. Something with the wibe of the long gone Opium Vapeurs. It should not be too expensive.
Thank you. April 28, 2020 at 1:58pm
Klaas: Hello Zoe, I don’t know Opium Vapeurs, but Andy Tauer just came out with a solid perfume version of L’Air du Desert Maroccain. Check his website. It is reasonably priced and Andy Tauer is a absolute wizzard with spices! I sometimes wear the EDT and I’m always astonished by the way this fragrance glows on skin. It is like liquid sunshine, or indeed desert sand. It would make a terrific gift! April 28, 2020 at 3:55pm
Zoe: It sounds great. I will look after it. Thank you! April 29, 2020 at 11:19am
Klaas: I see that I forgot to tell you what kind of fragrance it is. It is a exotic spice blend sprinkled over the most glorious amber base. A bit á la Opium, actually… April 30, 2020 at 6:50am
Kaitlin: Hello! After reading Victoria’s post on “Daily Pleasures: Jasmine Shower Gels” I had to get my hands on the Korres interpretation of Jasmine–and it’s just the kind of jasmine I like. Fruity, clean, sweet, and rich. Could someone recommend me a perfume along the lines of Korres Jasmine? They do not make a perfume to go with the shower gel. I would prefer under $100 as I am a poor student, but I would love to hear all ideas. Thank you! Kate April 28, 2020 at 5:10pm
Victoria: I also wish they made a matching perfume. I don’t know where you live, but Atelier Rebul has a nice jasmine cologne and it’s around 15€. April 29, 2020 at 2:06am
Kate: Thank you, Victoria! Unfortunately I live in the U.S. and shipping to me would cost more than the perfume. Can you recommend something that might be more accessible to me? If not, I think I will have to risk a blind buy as I am greatly tempted!
Kate April 29, 2020 at 11:56am
Eudora: Hello Kaitlin, I also enjoyed korres jasmin body products thanks to Victoria. I found it very similar to Lush Lust perfume. I read about it being called a dirty jasmin, but for me is like the real thing on esteroids and no dirt, just the flower at best…or a ton of flowers at once! and close to Korres jasmin interpretation. Try it, it is very well priced and lasts forever. April 29, 2020 at 3:40pm
Klaas: Kaitlin, Grandiflora does a stunning jasmine for around $100. It’s called Madagascan Jasmine and it is just glorious! Crisp, fresh, a little bit green, but with all the creamy, indolic goodness a jasmine fragrance should offer.
Etat Libre d’Orange has a very nice jasmine as well, called Jasmin et Cigarette. It’s absolutely lovely…. April 29, 2020 at 5:02pm
Kate: Hello! After reading Victoria’s article on jasmine shower gels, I ran out and bought Korres Jasmine shower gel. It’s just the kind of jasmine I like–rich, sweet, clean, and warm. Could you recommend a perfume like this? Preferably under $100 as I am a poor student, but I am open to all suggestions! Thanks, Kate. April 28, 2020 at 5:27pm
John: Hello all,
Above you will see me referencing Caron Pour un Homme as a signature. It is and will always be a favourite, but sometimes it feels almost too simple or too soft… it calms me down but does not always spur me into action. I seem to be purging off some excess Freudian baggage by working may way through old wetshaving fragrances (Paco Rabanne, Azzaro Pour Homme, Aramis Aramis), not all of which have survived the ravages of reformulations and changing tastes. I wonder if there is something that combines this additional touch of ruggedness with the quality and sensuality of Caron’s lavender? I have and wear Caron’s other great fougère, The Third Man, but am looking for something a little more everyday and, though high-quality, plainspoken. Thanks for your thoughts! April 28, 2020 at 6:39pm
Sebastian: Here are some suggestions. First and foremost, I hope Rive gauche pour homme might fit the bill. I used to really wear that a lot, I think it is one of the best fougères ever. Lavender, geranium and rosemary over patchouli-moss. Unfortunately, you don’t get it in that metal cylinder packaging anymore. Reportedly, it has also changed, with less focus on the moss and more on woody notes, which might make it a bit less rugged. I haven’t smelled the current version myself. But it used to be wonderfully energetic, muscular and gentle at the same time. Then there is Geo F. Trumper Paisley, traditional British barbershop done in a modern way, good solid quality, with a lot of mint, interesting with cardamon and aniseed, and prominent sandalwood and coumarin in the drydown. Very fresh. It’s a bit more modern and smoother than the Rive gauche p. h. that I remember so fondly. Third, Houbigant Duc de Vervins is another 80’s-style green-aromatic fougère, but strikes a nice balance between forcefulness and elegance. Its attitude (not its smell) somehow reminds me of Drakkar Noir, if you can imagine what I mean. I feel it is a little sharp, more suitable for the summer.
As an afterthought, but I haven’t smelled that myself, Rogue Perfumery Fougere L’Aube might fit the bill. I have heard that everything from this line is very old school and very well done, but with a bit of roughness about them. April 29, 2020 at 6:00am
John: Dear Sebastian,
Thank you for these great suggestions! I sampled the ‘tin can’ version of Rive Gauche a few years ago, and unfortunately, something in gave me a mild allergic response (it might have been ISO… which has sadly left a lot of great fragrances off the map for me, notably Declaration and Encre Noire); also unfortunate is the news that even the revised bottling of Rive Gauche has apparently been discontinued!
I have been wondering about the newly mainstreamed Beau de Jour as a possible substitute to fill the Rive Gauche void (I’ve heard it compared to both Rive Gauche & Zino, another fragrance I like)… Discontinuation is frustrating for Fougère lovers as we fall into the gap between retreating old favourites and the exclusivity of expensive niche revisiting of the genre (to whit: Duc de Vervins, another great recommendation, also seems to be disappearing, while Houbignant’s revisited version of Fougère Royale is getting harder to find online). On the other hand, I’ve been very curious about Rogue perfumery, so thank you for the nudge!
Do you have any thoughts about the performance of the Trumper Paisley? I’ve longed dreamed of something that could fit the Azzaro-Pour-Homme-aniseed-fix but with more genteel ingredients, and this sounds very promising, but does it have legs? April 29, 2020 at 5:18pm
Sebastian: Your news is wholly bad! Well, can’t be helped.
Beau de Jour was disappointing to me. Some people are head-over-heels, since it does differ only a little from the private line edition, but I think it’s still overpriced. The lavender is strangely abstract, and the whole thing lacks expressiveness. Once the nice airiness is gone, I find it a bit common. “Mainstreamed” describes it well. But I know that mine is a minority feeling.
Paisley is sold as a Cologne, so you can’t expect too much, but longevity is decent for that category: I get about 4 hours of enjoyment from it. April 29, 2020 at 6:27pm
John: Thanks for that frankness! I have been a bit wary of hype in reading reviews of BdJ. I apologize for sounding grim…I really love the things I have. Some days I think I can just get by with a bottle of Paco Rabanne from the drugstore, which really is pretty nice stuff, and reminds me of all those gauche but endearing characters in Truffaut movies from the 70’s… April 29, 2020 at 7:53pm
Eudora: John, I understand and share all that! A pretty nice stuff for me is Gloria Vanderbilt. With Paco Rabanne they make a good couple!
By the way, PR used to be stunning, now it is a shadow of itself. I smelled the new reformulation and was soooooo dissapointed because I was familiar with it years ago.
But still a pretty nice stuff, yes! April 30, 2020 at 9:59am
John: Yeah, it’s funny…I ended up with a bottle of PRPH in a trade and initially was a bit repelled by its intensely soapy opening; some of this was also probably a feeling of circumspection at having been exposed to regular reviews by people who claimed the vintage was so much better. I have to say, however, that I actually have come to really love Paco, even in its present condition… The evolution of the composition after the soapy opening is very pleasurable and the drydown even appeals to my wife, who loves classics like Eau Sauvage, Guerlain Vetiver or Caron Pour un Homme on me but has been known to demonstrably wrinkle her nose at shaving-foam-redolent-fougères like Paco, Azzaro or Le Troisième homme. Anyway, I do find myself craving it often and am wearing it today in the emerald springtime weather of the north west coast. May 1, 2020 at 1:04pm
Leslie: Beau de Jour steadily grew on me. I began with a small decant … went to a second decant (both from the brown bottle version … and have now purchased an entire bottle of the new version (clear glass with silver top).
I find this new version does last a long time, around five hours. Frankly, I look forward to a quick re-spray at that time! It is just such a burst of freshness.
I have a large fragrance collection, and this is one of few that my husband has complimented me on. (I’m a woman who tends to wear unisex or men’s fragrances.) July 2, 2020 at 10:31am
Aurora: What about a leather for rugged and plain spoken: Hermes Bel Ami or Knize Ten are among the best classics or more recent, L’Artisan Parfumeur with its lavender note.
Two British classics (I’m based in the UK) would be Penhaligon’s Endymion, a great fougere, there is now a concentree version but I don’t know it, and Floris No 89 worn by Ian Fleming. I also second Sebastian for Rive Gauche. April 29, 2020 at 11:17am
John: Thanks for those ideas! I must get online to research samples again… Certainly both Bel Ami & Bel Ami Vetiver have been on my list for a long time, and so has Knize Ten (generally I love older things s the latter really fits the bill.) I’ll check out Endymion, I really have not researched it at all, and, though I’ve heard that thee are similarities between Floris 89 and Habit Rouge (something I currently own and love) in the rose note, it certainly sounds worth looking into. April 29, 2020 at 5:22pm
Aurora: Sorry, forgot to write the name of L’Artisan Parfumeur perfume, It’s Bucoliques de Provence. April 29, 2020 at 1:13pm
John: Thanks — I actually have never come across it, but will have a look. May 1, 2020 at 1:05pm
Eudora: Hello John, I also would be more than happy, totally satisfied with Caron Pour un homme for ever. But here we are.
I have two suggestions to go a little bit “up”…Chanel Sycomore and Hermes Vetiver Tonka. I am sure you are familiar with both.
I have two fragances to try on my list for ever, one being Rive Gauche pour homme and the second Declaration d’une soir… April 29, 2020 at 4:00pm
John: I should say that I’ll never be without Caron Pour un Homme… I have a semi-absurd, 500 ml bottle in my bathroom that is nearly empty now, plus about six 4.2 OZ empties haunting the back of my pyjama drawer. Thanks so much for those suggestions… Sycomore intrigues me a lot, but I have a bit of a sensitivity to ISO, alas. I will look into the Hermes however! April 29, 2020 at 7:50pm
Eudora: Another 500ml bottle here! But I keep it in the closet and decant it little by little.
Sycomore is stunning, radiant as the sun. It is soooooo perfect.
Vetiver Tonka is my last big love. I could not imagine how much I am enjoying a couple of samples I got. Sensual: it envelops you and touches your senses like…love. April 30, 2020 at 9:48am
Frankie: I have been trying to find a single or close to a single note mimosa for such a long time. Not the yellow mimosa that is popular all over Europe but the fuzzy pink kind you see all over the eastern seaboard in spring and summer. My mom found an oil in a flea market many years ago that captured it perfectly. I just want it as a tribute to her memory. It was beautiful and so was she. Any help would be greatly appreciated! April 29, 2020 at 12:40am
Aurora: I know Jo Malone Silk Blossom but it has other notes in addition, It’s lovely though. Also, but discontinued, so maybe difficult to find, Eau de Fleur de Soie by Kenzo, there was one on ebay UK (where I live) for £25, a few days ago, so not expensive but I’m not sure about the US. Maybe there are more perfumes which figure that note too. April 29, 2020 at 12:03pm
Nina Zolotow: Une Fleur de Cassie by Frederic Malle is an acacia scent (similar to mimosa) with mimosa absolute in it. April 29, 2020 at 2:09pm
Frankie: Thank you! Will try to find a sample. April 30, 2020 at 1:14am
Lainey: Frankie, look way down below for a long message from me re: what you’re looking for. Not sure why it landed all the way down there! May 17, 2020 at 1:46am
Tati: Hi Frankie: Jo Malone Mimosa & Cardamom might work. It is less complex than Une Fleur de Cassie ( which is my favorite ). April 29, 2020 at 4:47pm
Lainey: Also, Frankie, I was just on Bloomingdales and, ironically, the first frag listed is Jo Malone Silk Blossom Cologne (someone else mentioned it too). It’s the pink mimosa you’re seeking, see from the pic here:
https://m.jomalone.com/product/26682/71860/fragrances/limited-editions/blossoms-fy20/bringback/silk-blossom-cologne
1 oz. (29 ml) can be had from Bloomingdales online for $72. White pepper top, pink mimosa heart & moss base. Sounds like they may have brought it back after a clamor. Most Jo Malone fumes are notoriously fleeting, but you can decant a little into a travel spray & refresh throughout the day. I know how a scent memory can haunt and, when found, can satisfy. Good luck with this! May 17, 2020 at 11:21am
Skie763: Thank you so much! I ordered a sample on ebay. May 18, 2020 at 5:03pm
Klaas: Guys, a practical question. I love to put perfume on the back of my hands, but with all this hand washing and desinfecting my skin just eats perfume! Even the biggest fragrances turn into a whisper.
Should I use a cream or a nourishing oil? Any suggestions? I am on a budget these days. All tips are welcome! April 29, 2020 at 5:06pm
limegreen: Try back of the wrists, basically the forearms! Of course it depends on whether you are still wearing long sleeves. 🙂 I’m big on spritzing on the ankles, too.
Stay safe and keep hand washing. April 29, 2020 at 5:27pm
Klaas: Hmmmm, the ankels. Too early for shorts here, unfortunately, but I’ll keep it in mind! April 30, 2020 at 6:44am
Sebastian: It’ll be fun watching you trying to get a sniff. April 30, 2020 at 7:13am
limegreen: haha!
The good ones with silliage waft up!
I wear Chanel no. 19 on my ankles. When I used to work at a desk in my office (a month ago or so), it was wonderful. Someday I’ll be back at that desk but ankle sprays still work. April 30, 2020 at 5:55pm
Sebastian: Most creams and oils that are explicitly marketed as “nourishing” unfortunately are perfumed. Which often means they are perfumed unfortunately. I sometimes use a scentless baby oil to good effect. And then some hand sterilizers aren’t so bad: The good ones contain lots of glycerin, so shouldn’t really dry out your skin. April 29, 2020 at 6:37pm
Klaas: hahaha, perfumed unfortunately…..I see what you mean. I’ll give the baby oil a try, thanks. April 30, 2020 at 6:46am
Eudora: Hello Klass,
Too early for shorts here: do you put perfume on your clothes, in your long sleeves…I do it sometimes…new circunstances, new ways…
Perfumed unfortunately: try Cerave, the body lotion is amazing and unescented. Actually, I mix it with perfumes in small pots and make the most gorgeus hand creams or body lotions! Cerave has body lotion -you can use is from head to toe- a cream version and also a hands cream. Different sizes, very convenient, very cheap and top quality. April 30, 2020 at 9:35am
Klaas: Cerave sounds great! I’ll check it out.
I like spraying perfume on fabric (woolen sweaters and shawls!), but my partner really dislikes perfume………I know……….but otherwise he’s perfect 😉 It’s so bad he can’t deal with fabric softener!
So I try to keep my clothes unscented and my perfume habits discreet. The back of the hand is perfect, I get to enjoy my perfumes when I’m at work or out, and can easlily wash them off when I’m back home. May 1, 2020 at 6:48am
Eudora: I find the situation very challenging! I am testing for the first time L’ombre dans l’eau..it is one of those perfums my partner desn’t like at all for me bc it is not “pretty”. Sometimes it is ok, I understand…sometimes it challenges me! And by the way he is soooo perfect too. May 1, 2020 at 8:39am
Klaas: Hahahaha, it is VERY challenging! For me the perfume-on-the-hands-solution really works though 😉
It’s just all this hand washing that spoils it for now. May 1, 2020 at 9:00am
Peter: Hi Eudora,
L’Ombre Dans L’Eau is such a refreshing perfume because of the garden aromas. Pretty can be boring. May 1, 2020 at 10:22pm
Eudora: Hello Peter. About L’Ombre update!
1st day. Wow! GREEN, too much GREEN, “masculine” and a lot of ???
2nd day. I discovered a beautiful rose… and a ton of !!!
3rd day. Today. Very hot here. Everything is ROSE. Very “feminine”. A rose fragrance.
Tomorrow more. A complex and very mysterious edt. And that is my point, it is the opposite to refreshing on me. It is actually a bit dark or heavy but clean rose, une rose a l’ombre… May 3, 2020 at 10:51am
Peter: Hey Eudora,
It sounds like you’re having fun testing L’Ombre. It’s an interesting fragrance. I have to admit I mostly get ‘tomato’! May 4, 2020 at 3:18pm
Sebastian: It can be difficult. Quite apart from taste in perfume, my partner doesn’t like me smelling different so often. I can see how people like to identify friends by their smells, like when you’re missing someone and you go and sniff their favorite sweaters or something. I’m not like that, but if you are, you’ve got a problem with someone like me. So I seldom wear perfume at home, and if so, try to stick to one or two of them that meet with approval, and for the rest, just as Klaas says, it’s just a lot of hand-washing and taking showers.
All attempts to create interest in exploring the world of scents together so far have failed to raise any enthusiasm. May 1, 2020 at 10:17am
Eudora: Yes to everything Sebastian. “All attempts to create interest in exploring the world of scents together so far have failed to raise any enthusiasm” … “and maybe that is one of the reasons why I am here today” I will add. May 3, 2020 at 10:55am
Sebastian: Does anyone
know anything about “Moire” by Les Nez, which was just selected as one of the finalists in this year’s Art & Olfaction Awards? In particular, there doesn’t even seem to be a note list to be found anywhere. The awards announcement doesn’t give one, the perfume is not listed in any of the online forums, it’s not even on the company’s website. I have emailed them for information, but silence. Remarkably under the radar. April 30, 2020 at 4:04am
Sebastian: I have asked the Art & Olfaction people, and they kindly send me some information. Having struggled through some of the most turgid and confused perfume poetry in recent memory (in French), I can now say that the notes are Osmanthus, Gurjum, Lavender, Neroli, Black Pepper and Vetiver.
Gurjum essential oil, of which I had never heard, apparently has a sweet, woody scent. Gurjum Oil is used to bulk up expensive perfume oils and often used to adulterate essential oils.
Les Nez have an interesting distribution arrangement, which explains why their webshop doesn’t list this perfume: their policy is to sell directly, in person, up to 150 bottles and only then put the perfume online.
If anyone is interested, you’ll find them at Schattengasse 5, in Klingnau (Switzerland). April 30, 2020 at 4:13pm
John: Has anyone tried the (relaunched) Le Galion fragrances? I’m awfully curious about Special for Gentlemen, Sang Bleu and Le Whip, for instance… April 30, 2020 at 10:13am
limegreen: I love the Le Galion line but I didn’t know it in its original incarnation so I only know the relaunched ones. I test them at Liberty whenever I go to London (every other summer). It’s hard to find in the US except for the now shuttered Twisted Lily. Actually they are still an active website but shelves are empty.
Supposedly they have/are repackaged in smaller 50 ml bottles. That’s when I will get Cuir.
I have Cologne — just a beautiful interpretation of the neroli amber. I find it more green than Tom Ford Neroli Portofino, and longer lasting.
I also have tested the soliflores: Rose, Iris, Tuberose, all very beautiful intepretations.
Sang Bleu was nice on the test strip, too much patchouli vetiver for me, though. April 30, 2020 at 6:20pm
John: Thanks for the reply. That’s nice to hear about the smaller bottles (see Klaas’ remark below about travel sprays as well…) Somewhere in a discretionary fund in my brain that may never really become manifest in the world is a small bottle fund that will be used to purchase the likes of Le Snob, Nicolai New York and Knize Ten in 30 or 50 ml bottles… May 1, 2020 at 1:39pm
Klaas: Hey John, I have Whip and I really, really enjoy it! It is one of my favorite citrus fragrances. It reminds me a lot (a lot!) of vintage Eau Sauvage; it has that same bitterness and that refreshing green edge. I love it year round, and it actually has quite some muscle for a citrus perfume.
They sell 10ml travel sprays. If it is not listed on the website just send them a email and ask if they can make you one. They kindly did for me, but it was a while ago.
Let me know if you try some other fragrance of theirs, I’d be curious to hear your thoughts. I too find the brand intriguing. May 1, 2020 at 6:59am
John: Thank you for that excellent tip! I am very curious too, in part because Le Whip, Sang Bleu and Special for Gentlemen all sound up my alley and in part because I’m a sucker for these kinds of clean-yet-vintage bottle aesthetics. I’d love to think that Galion is one of those treasures like Caron that represents a connection to old-world perfumery even now. May 1, 2020 at 1:42pm
Sebastian: If Whip is up your alley, then so must be Monsieur Balmain, Eau Sauvage, Chanel Pour Monsieur, with which it shares a lot of DNA.
If that’s the case, a relevant cheapie for you is Capucci Pour Homme. Light, chypre-leaning aromatic citrus with a bit of aniseed on top. Low sillage, medium longevity, totally vintage feel, classic. It sells for about €15 per 100 ml EdT (at least in Germany and Italy, where it is a staple), and for that price getting a bottle is a no brainer. May 1, 2020 at 7:24pm
John: Thanks for this suggestion! I confess that this was totally off my radar. Here in (western) Canada, I see Boucheron once in awhile but never Carpuccu. I will look into it. As the citrus chypre genre goes, I am a little sentimental about Eau Sauvage (my wife is too), but it’s a lovely genre to explore, especially when, as you indicate, a vintage feel is involved. May 2, 2020 at 8:21pm
Lainey: Hi Frankie,
Your quest intrigued me, so I did some research re: yellow mimosa vs. pink mimosa & found this:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albizia_julibrissin
and this:
https://thefragrantjourney.blogspot.com/2018/05/scented-paths-smell-of-texas-mimosa-or.html?m=1
Also found this rather old (2007) blog page that lists 4 mimosa frags for women:
http://perfumesmellinthings.blogspot.com/2007/10/bouquet-of-mimosa-blossoms.html?m=1
You could try Prada’s Infusion de Mimosa:
https://www.fragrancenet.com/perfume/prada/prada-les-infusions-mimosa/eau-de-parfum#310282
Or, as someone else mentioned, Kenzo did a Persian Silk Blossom perfume, but I don’t think it’s available on the discount sites any longer (and was damned with faint praise on NST anyway, lmao…)
Here’s a dizzying list of every perfume with mimosa fragrance in it, though many are likely the yellow variety:
https://www.fragrantica.com/notes/Mimosa-167.html
Ultimately, this might be the jackpot for what you’re seeking:
https://essentialoilwizardry.com/product/mimosa-perfume/
Good luck, my dear! May 17, 2020 at 1:43am
Skie763: Thank you so much. Have a great day! May 18, 2020 at 7:06pm
Monika: Hello. I’ve been lately attracted to calming, clean or aromatherapy-like perfumes. My current faves are Bvlgari Eau de The Blanc and Eau de Gaga. Looking for the somewhat similar character, I’ve read a couple of reviews of Jil Sander – like Pure, Softly. Would you recommend? What do you like from this house? (I don’t know it at all; I think I smelled once Evergreen – or was it Style Pastels Green? – and thought it instantly forgettable). April 30, 2020 at 10:29am
Aurora: Hi Monika: I have two, No 4, very eighties style and opulent and complex and Sun, for summer deceptively light but lasts all day, , some sweetness from benzoin but discreet, cosmetic cream-like more than suncream I have nothing else like it, I wear it for work in thesummer. Like you I must have tried another one or two but wasn’t impressed. April 30, 2020 at 2:11pm
Monika: Thank you! those two sound interesting, even if not quite the thing I’m looking for at the moment 🙂 May 1, 2020 at 8:29am
Lainey: Monica, I replied to you, but it’s way down below. Not sure why I can’t seem to work this simple module correctly! 😆 May 17, 2020 at 2:44am
Lainey: Monica, I have and love Eau de Gaga & another I love is L’artisan Parfumeur’s Un Air de Bretagne. It is an amazing smelling perfume, at least to me. It’s on the pricey side but seems to be disappearing, so I bought a backup bottle (BUB) last year. You also might like Sarah Jessica Parker’s Lovely, which can still be had for a very good price. It’s very gentle and fuzzy, like loose-stitched cashmere sweater. Some people get asnomic to it, but it’s generally loved in the perfumista community. May 17, 2020 at 1:53am
Teak: Hello! Can any of you wonderful people help me to find a new scent? I tend to like gourmands, but nothing too heavy or cloying. My current favorites are L’Artisan Parfumeur Noir Exquis (maple-syrupy, but backed by woods) and Angel Muse (while I find the original Angel to be much too overpowering, I love the drydown on Muse, which on me stays close to the skin and smells creamy and nutty). In the past I have also loved L’Artisan Parfumeur Safran Troublant (spicy saffron and dry vanilla).
I would love to find a more floral scent for spring/summer that still has elements of the gourmands I love, as my old favorites are feeling too heavy. I would love to hear your thoughts! April 30, 2020 at 10:59am
Aurora: Hello Teak: Cacharel Premier Delice features fruits (pear) and floral notes with chocolate and It’s not cloying, I can wear it in summer, also Acqua di Parma, almond and citrus and Nicolai Kiss Me Intense but it may be a little too much for summer, Profumum Roma Dulcis in fundo is vanilla with citrus, and Maison de la Vanille If you like vanilla (they have an affordable sampler set), Nobile 1942 La Danza delle Libellule (apple and cinnamon cake) also explore the Laura Mercier line, many gourmands, some light ones and I find them to be good quality overall, and finally do you like Prada Candy? There are lighter flankers, I lost count ☺ but one might suit. May 1, 2020 at 12:14am
Aurora: Hello again Teak: just adding as I forgot to write the name, It’s Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo Mandorlo di Sicilia, a long name ☺ which is a very good gourmand for summer. May 1, 2020 at 10:15am
Peter: Hey Teak,
I see Aurora recommended Profumum Dulcis in Fundo. I’d like to add their Battito D’Ai. I tested those two gourmand samples and Battito got a slight edge. Fragrantica lists the notes as: sweet, white floral, balsamic, vanilla, smoky and cacao. May 1, 2020 at 10:35pm
Ninon: Rats, I hope I’m not too late! I’m looking for two different complex florals:
1) A white floral with a resinous but non-vanillic base (lily is a particular love, but there are so few options–DK Gold was linear on me. Maybe a complex jasmine would be a better bet?)
2) A bouquet with depth in the mode of Opardu. Something “blue” and “white” would be amazing–iris, heliotrope, and/or hyacinth with lilac, et al. The current L’Heure Bleu smells like SweeTarts on me, though I haven’t explored it in vintage. Any specific versions or modern interpretations I should consider? Something else?
Thanks so much!
Thank you! April 30, 2020 at 2:33pm
Sebastian: As for 1) perhaps Eau de Fath?
As for 2), Opardu is, well, not everyone’s cup of tea. But animalic or leathery dense white florals abound. The examples that come to my mind just now are with tuberose: Tuberosa Miller Harris (indole), or Lebreton’s L’Eau Scandaleuse (leather).
Your mentioning L’Heure Bleue surprised me a little. I’d be interested to know why you feel it’s connected to Opardu. April 30, 2020 at 5:02pm
Aurora: Hello Ninon: There is Jean Patou collection heritage Vacances with mainly lilac with some hyacinth, rose jasmine, I find it so unique. I purchased it for a really good price online (£37) as it’s recently discontinnued, but It’s in the UK. May 1, 2020 at 10:32am
Ninon: Hi Aurora! Thank you so much for your reply. I have been meaning to try the new Vacances–I’m so sorry to hear that it’s already been discontinued! I live mostly on samples and I have never made a “blind buy,” but I think it’s time. Thanks again! May 2, 2020 at 3:24am
Ninon: Thank you, Sebastian! I appreciate your reply and suggestions. I personally don’t connect L’Heure Bleu with Opardu–I also can’t imagine not liking the latter!–but others have suggested it to me as blue-toned bouquet. I look forward to trying the Jacques Fath, Miller Harris, and LeBreton…Thanks again. April 30, 2020 at 5:11pm
OnWingsofSaffron: Hello, I have a question: Do you know Blanc de Courrèges? Victoria has no solo review but she mentions is a few times en passant, and then quite favourably. Iris, white patchouli, pink pepper… It actually sounds quite yummy, yet I realise I’m apprehensive fetching a small bottle online. Why? Probably as I am falling into the trap that it’s not sooo good as it is not sooo expensive, so very posh & niche-y?
I’d love some of your impressions! May 1, 2020 at 2:55am
Victoria: It’s nice, but honestly, it’s not that unique. I wouldn’t buy it blindly. May 1, 2020 at 8:04am
Eudora: Hello Victoria, have you smelled the new Celine fragances? I tried but the SA bothered me talking all the time nonsense all smiles and info that I left the store same as I entered. May 1, 2020 at 8:48am
OnWingsofSaffron: Thanks for your frank assessment, Victoria. Will follow! May 1, 2020 at 9:24am
Aurora: Thank you Sebastian, that’s interesting I didn’t know about gurjum oil, I wonder in what other fragrances it is used, probably many as it must save money for so many brands, It’s disappointing but not surprising. May 1, 2020 at 1:55pm
Martin: Hi 🙂 I love the combination of lavender and Immortelle in Dior Eau Noire and never found anything like it. I have even considered mixing Pour un Homme de Caron with Immortelle Oil. Goutal Sables lacks the sophistication of Eau Noire. Do you know of a sophisticated Immortelle scent, preferably with lavender? Or a lavender scent with the complex je ne sais quoi that I appreciate so much in immortelle? Many thanks May 3, 2020 at 5:23pm
Aurora: Hi Martin: Eau Noire is compared to Amouage Sunshine Man on Fragrantica, and I would like to recommend Divine (a small French niche brand) l’Etre Aime pour homme, which also has immortelle and Lavender, I like these notes very much too. May 5, 2020 at 12:08pm
Klaas: Hey Martin. Eau Noire was a great fragrance and Dior should bring it back! Like…..now!!
I know of one other sophisticated immortelle scent with lavender in it, and that is 19 May 1957 by Pozzo di Borgo. It is not as dense as the Dior, but very, very nice. It is sweet and savory (always nice in a perfume) and I very much enjoy the hint of licorice in it. It is also a lot less expensive than the Dior Collection Privée.
And do you know CdG Black? It is an intense fragrance, loud with massive sillage, but I really, really like it. Check Victoria’s review for more info. I could swear there is lavender in there, but it might be my nose playing a trick on me.
Two more lavender scents that make my mouth water: Brin de Reglisse from Hermes (lavender and licorice in perfect, perfect, harmony). It is light and transparent, so beautiful as it is, it doesn’t pack a lot of punch for your buck. The other one is Eau de Gloire by Parfum d’ Empire. A true ‘herbal aromatic’ with lavender, citrus and rosemary, but with a leathery twist as the scent develops. Could that be the je ne sais quoi you’re after?
Enjoy smelling 😉 May 7, 2020 at 2:58pm
Martin: Dear Aurora, dear Klaas. Thank you so much for the great suggestions. I actually know quite little about perfume. I’m still at the stage where I learn to understand why some things work for me and some don’t. Eau Noire was my first love and I still haven’t found anything to replace it – but I keep looking. Thanks again. May 8, 2020 at 12:46pm
Klaas: Hey Martin. It is terrible when a favorite scent gets discontinued….and replacing it is not always possible. I hope you find something you like, even if it is a little bit different from Eau Noire, or with a different vibe. Sometimes we have to let go of the perfume we try to replace to see the beauty of something else.
Of course, there is ebay, but Eau Noire will not be easy to find for a reasonable price….
Good luck, and please let us know if you find something! May 9, 2020 at 12:19pm
Alex: Hi! I’m looking for a very sensual yet distinctive perfume. Something that is sexy and feminine, that might drive my boyfriend crazy in a good way haha.
Some perfumes I have liked in the past have been Si, Because it’s you, L’imperatrice, Mon Paris, some of the different Escada summer perfumes, miss dior absolutely blooming, Light blue, babydoll by YSL.
Si used to be my go to perfume for many years, as well as this purple diamond looking one from Armani, but I would like to try something new. Maybe even very different.
As I said, what I’m looking for the most is that it’s sensual and feminine, but still stands out somewhat.
Thank you in advance! May 8, 2020 at 9:13pm
Aurora: Hello Alex: Based on some of your likes and keeping in mind the sensual aspect I think you might enjoy the cassis (present in Si) and apple and sensual musk of Cacharel Noa l’Eau, it’s like the regular Noa but fruitier, brighter and Serge Lutens Clair de Musc (a light musk). Also have you tried Chanel No 5 Eau Premiere? It’s a seamless blend of citrus, florals and sandalwood with a lot of vanilla in the base and it is said that vanilla is sensual and it’s my most complimented perfume; another vanilla, with coconut and woods Serge Lutens Un Bois Vanille (although too heavy for summer, I think) and Estee
Lauder Bronze Goddess, Diptyque Fleur de Peau too maybe (iris and musk) as well as the floral (jasmine), animalic Olene and to really take you out of your comfort zone what about a light leather like Bottega Veneta or Hermes Kelly Caleche? May 10, 2020 at 3:16pm
Alex: Thank you for your recommendations Aurora!
I actually got Bronze Goddess quite recently, but it doesn’t last quite as long as I’d like on me, and the drydown is pretty meh on me. Otherwise it’s a LOVELY scent!
I’ll make sure to check out the other ones that you mentioned 🙂
Thank you again! May 11, 2020 at 3:51pm
Johanna: ello! I am still longing for the old formulation of Voleur de Roses by L’Artisan Parfumeur. There was a reformulation, right? I could swear it, although, I cannot find any mention of a re-formulation anywhere on the English speaking internet. I obsessively (not in an everyday manner) and exclusively used it for about a year in 2006-7 I think and I have such fond memories of its scent on my skin. I have now had another bottle for about 2-3 years and it is not the same love affair. I am not sure there is much love at all. It now smells of old ladies, a bit powdery and of rose on a woollen sweater. I am still intrigued by it but.. I would be grateful for any information of what has changed and what were the notes previously. And for any recommendations based on the old formulation. Thank you! And I’s so glad I stumbled on this blog last month. What joy! P.S. Yes, I understand it might be me.. chemistry of my skin… ah. May 10, 2020 at 4:56pm
Johanna: oh, and what I meant with ‘old ladies’ is what I must have associated with older women when I was a child. I m myself women in mid-40s 🙂 Not very helpful reference, I realise. May 10, 2020 at 4:58pm
Aurora: Hello Johanna: I am not familiar with VdR but if your nose tells you it has changed you must be right. But I would recommend saving a search on ebay for older/vintage bottles, and also my favorite patchouli rose is Terry de Ginsburg Rouge Nocturne which smells modern to my nose. May 14, 2020 at 4:21pm
Johanna: Excellent suggestions, thank you, Aurora! I used by Terry makeup before but never tried the perfumes. I have a feeling I will like her patchouli rose. I will report back once I have a chance to experience the scent. Thank you again! May 14, 2020 at 4:28pm
Vickie: Hello, My two signature perfumes have been Victoria by Victoria’s Secret circa 1989? and the original Dream Angels Heavenly. The first is discontinued the second reformulated to PU!! I don’t care for sicky sweet or heavy or everyone wears it. Just soft and beautiful. Any suggestions for perfumes similar to these two? Thank you so much. May 13, 2020 at 7:13am
Aurora: Dream Angels Heavenly is listed as similar to Emporio Armani Lei/Elle/She on Fragrantica so maybe you could try it? Unfortunately I don’t know the original Victoria but have you considered saving a search for it on eBay if it still is affordable? May 15, 2020 at 10:56am
Aurora: Hello again Vickie, I just thought I would add Mercari as a possible source for Victoria 1989 as the site seems to be popular, if you are in the US. Again you could save a search and you would be notified when a bottle gets listed. Hope this will help you a little bit. May 15, 2020 at 11:10am
Vickie: Thank you for your suggestions. Hopefully the current lock downs will lift and I can go to a store. Trying to find samples can be difficult. I purchases some through The Perfumed Court but all were way to strong for me. I’ll keep trying. Thank you! May 15, 2020 at 4:24pm
Aurora: Hello Vickie: I got in touch with friends on Now smell this blog, a fellow commenter, Chocolate Marzipan relayed that the notes for Victoria were rose, raspberry and amber with possibly oakmoss. Someone thought maybe to try Burberry Body, on the other hand I made a search on Fragrantica and so found a perfume that might be close, It’s the fruity floral Jeanne Lanvin by Lanvin. It is still in production. Current Lanvin perfumes are light and pretty, popular in Japan; so they might suit you since you mention what you tried having been too strong.
All the best for your search when Covid19 finally ends (sigh). May 18, 2020 at 1:30pm
Vickie: Thank you so much! I will search for samples and add these to my list of perfumes to seek when the mall reopens. Fingers crossed our state is just starting to open up a bit. P.S. I think hair dressers will be flooded with clients. ha ha May 18, 2020 at 2:53pm
Lainey: Monica, I have and love Eau de Gaga & another I love is L’artisan Parfumeur’s Un Air de Bretagne. It is an amazing smelling perfume, at least to me. It’s on the pricey side but seems to be disappearing, so I bought a backup bottle (BUB) last year. You also might like Sarah Jessica Parker’s Lovely, which can still be had for a very good price. It’s very gentle and fuzzy, like loose-stitched cashmere sweater. Some people get asnomic to it, but it’s generally liked in the perfumista community. May 17, 2020 at 2:41am
Oliver Mills: I love perfumes but can distinguished between the smells and I love each and very perfume for mysefl but I have not found the one for me, I dont know how to find that. Please could you help? May 18, 2020 at 2:54am
Aurora: Hello Oliver: Try as many perfumes as you can, you will find the kne or close to. Maybe start with the classics beloved by many of us, I’ll list a few: Chanel Pour Monsieur, Guerlain Vetiver and l’Homme Ideal Dior Eau Sauvage and Dior Homme (Not the new one released in 2020) and Caron Pour un Homme which gets a lot of love here, Hermes Bel Ami, Terre, Voyage and Un Jardin sur le Nil, Boucheron Jaipur too and Valentino Uomo and L’Artisan Parfumeur Bucoliques de Provence. May 19, 2020 at 11:17am