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. Or you can just tell us what perfume you are wearing!
I’ve delighted and touched by the response to my Ukrainian fundraiser, and I wanted to mention that we now have more than 10 prizes, including vintage Coty Chypre, Penhaligon’s Ostara, perfumes by Hermès, Chanel, Neela Vermeire and other exceptional brands. All of your contributions make a difference, so Thought Group Chile and I are immensely grateful.
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
154 Comments
Hélène: Bonjour à tous,
I’m looking for a lavender perfume. I adore Pour un homme de Caron, sadly the amber note doesn’t suit me very well. Any suggestions ? (if possible not overly expensive) Mille mercis ! February 27, 2023 at 9:13am
Ksenija: My favorite is Chanel Boy but it’s sadly on the pricier side February 27, 2023 at 9:59am
Valentyna: Jersey Chanel, hands down the best lavender cuddle. Not cheap though, sorry. February 27, 2023 at 10:07am
Alityke: Helene, I was going to suggest Caldey Island Lavender but it seems to no longer be available from the Monastery. It was a clean lavender that smelt of the whole plant & little else. Crunchy & botanical. It does seem to be available on resale sites.
There is Guerlain Jicky, I have read the latest iteration is good if cleaner than vintage. It is more complex than the Caldey Island February 27, 2023 at 10:23am
Jovi: Where can I find Caldey Island Lavender for resale? A Google search produced nothing. July 31, 2023 at 12:27pm
Alityke: I’m in the UK & it does sometimes pop up on eBay July 31, 2023 at 5:46pm
Bastet: Burberry Brit rhythm for women is a nice lavender and not too expensive either. You can find a review on this site. February 27, 2023 at 12:09pm
John Luna: Encens et Lavande by Serge Lutens was not a personal favourite of mine because it favoured the sweet, creamy side of lavender rather than the raw, herbal side we see in the Caron (which I love as well, amber notwithstanding.) Caldey Island Lavender is reputed to be a big dose of the raw experience (Turin & Sanchez go on about it), but, like so many ‘lavender waters’, it mostly features volatile notes that are fugitive on the skin — kind of an EDC experience. I’ve also heard good things about Molinard Lavender (they do great things with classic, Grasse-oriented ingredients) and Czech & Speake Oxford & Cambridge (a lavender-mint combo), but both are rare birds that I have not sampled to date. Good luck! February 27, 2023 at 12:30pm
hera: Mon Guerlain is the perfect lavender for me. February 27, 2023 at 2:45pm
Amanda M: Yes! Mon Guerlain +1 here. I love the EDP. February 28, 2023 at 4:53am
Klaas: Very expensive, I’m sorry, but if you ever pop by a Hermes boutique, go inside and sample Brin de Réglisse from the Hermessence line. It is my favorite lavender EVER!
If not, I second Pour un Homme and Jicky.
By Kylian used to to a fantastic lavender as well, it was called Absinthe Verte, but it’s now only available in a refill that is usable on their (overpriced) perfume sprays only……so that’s no help…….
Libre from YSL is a lavender that’s not too expensive, but I have never smelled it myself…..
Good luck! Lavender is such a joyful scent to wear! February 28, 2023 at 7:14pm
Radhika Holmstrom: Slightly desperate plea: does anyone have any suggestions for a perfume that can replace the lovely, but now discontinued, Geranium Bourbon by Miller Harris? I know there were a couple of other suggestions when BdJ first reviewed it but it was quite a standalone. February 27, 2023 at 9:40am
Aurora: Hello Radhika: I am not familiar with that Miller Harris but can recommend Diptyque Geranium Odorata. February 27, 2023 at 6:44pm
Radhika: ah yes, I considered that – and thank you so much – though the original BdJ review wasn’t quite as keen as on the MH!
But I adore Diptyque Olene (if only it would last a bit longer) so maybe should try… February 28, 2023 at 4:14am
Caroline: I’m getting married in September and recently heard of an idea I love: picking a perfume to wear specifically on your wedding … a scent that will bring back memories of that special day. I’m looking for something that makes me feel confident and warm, and maybe a little elegant. Some perfumes that I like are Love in White by Creed, Millesime Imperial by Creed, Thinking of You by Mary Kay, Not a Perfume by Juliette Has a Gun, and Original Scent by Barr Co. These scents make me feel confident and feminine, while also feeling cozy. I’d love suggestions for something special for my wedding day. Thank you in advance! February 27, 2023 at 10:10am
Hélène: Some ideas :
– Blanche Byredo is so virginal and pristine, maybe not the warmest though but i love it.
– La Chasse aux papillons L’Artisan is a luminous floral that would fit the wedding theme imo
– Prada infusion d’iris is bright and ethereal too and fits the notes you seem to enjoy
– but for that coziness and warmth without I’ll go with L’eau d’hiver Jean claude Ellena for Frederic Malle.
Have a wonderful wedding day 😉 February 27, 2023 at 11:11am
Aurora: Congratulations on your coming wedding.
Chanel Eau Première always makes me think of weddings, also it is rumoured that Chanel Beige is favoured by brides, but I find it a little bit too sweet. February 27, 2023 at 4:03pm
Maggiecat: Congratulations on your upcoming marriage. It took me longer to find my wedding perfume than it did my wedding dress, but I landed on Dior’s Diorissimo. Lilies always seemed to me to be a celebratory scent. Have fun with your search! And BTW I second Prada Infusion d’Iris. It’s elegant and inviting. February 27, 2023 at 5:41pm
Iolanda Alfonzi: I can suggest La vièrge de fer by Serge Lutens, it’s feminine, elegant but not opulent. It makes me think to a bride in her wedding day! Auguri!!🤍 February 28, 2023 at 7:09am
Roxann: I think Casamorati’s Dama Bianca would be beautiful at that season. Possibly Misia by Chanel. I would go for something that you don’t smell everywhere so it would be more special. Best wishes to you!! March 1, 2023 at 10:29am
Purple: I would chose Marfa by Memo Paris. Such lovely tuberose. March 2, 2023 at 7:40pm
Kimberly: Good Morning Everyone, I am wearing L’Artisan’s Mimosa Pour Moi today. It is beautiful but has been discontinued. It is one of my two mimosa perfumes; the other being Guerlain’s Champs Elysees EDP. I will be looking for another mimosa perfume and I am wondering if anyone has tried Gucci Winter’s Spring or the new L’Artisan Soleil de Provence. I also have a sample of Infusion de Mimosa and I like it but will probably not buy a full bottle. February 27, 2023 at 10:34am
Hélène: No mimosa but imo same feeling of entering a flower shop on a spring day that Champs Élysées gives me : Ofresia Diptyque. February 27, 2023 at 11:14am
Sara: I have tried Winter’s Spring and it’s beautiful. Ethereal, light. It has a lily of the valley bent to me, but is soft like mimosa pour moi and not sharp. I smelled it in an airport once and it has been on my wishlist ever since. I am a lover of light florals and my favorite are La Chasse Aux Papillons, En Passant, and Hiris (in case it helps to know my taste). February 27, 2023 at 11:32am
Kimberly: Thank you so much Sara. We like a lot of the same perfumes. I have both La Chasse Aux Papillons and Hiris on my wish list. I have have a travel mini of En Passant and I like it. I have limited my purchases to one perfume per month because I have acquired too many. Even one a month is a lot for me to justify. It is tough to limit myself but I must. My selected purchase for March is Goutal’s Un Matin D’Orage EDT. I wish I could sample Winter’s Spring. I might just have to make the leap. February 27, 2023 at 11:46am
Sara: Hi Kimberly,
I have not tried Un Matin d’Orage, but Victoria’s review has always made me think I would love it. From one floral love to another, what is your impression? Do you have a short “review” you might share, or comparisons to other fragrances? I love gardenia and my truest gardenia is probably Elie Saab Essence No 2, which I bought blind after reading Luca Turin’s review. It was my only blond purchase ever and I do like it, but I find it too formal/elegant for daily wear. If Un Matin d’Orage was less stately and austere, maybe I will go for it. March 20, 2023 at 10:10am
Kimberly: Hi Sara, I’ve only had my bottle for about two weeks now. I’ve worn it a few times. I’m waiting for the temperatures to start warming up before wearing it daily. I’m better at smelling perfume than I am at describing it. Here are my thoughts. Un Matin D’Orage has a complex opening. It is everything all at once. It has the same sort of dusty floral opening that I find in Songes and L’Heure Exquise. It is that beautifully recognizable signature of many of the Goutal and Doyen collaborations. This time the chosen floral is dewy gardenia in bloom. It is underpinned with sweet jasmine and waxy magnolia. I used to grow gardenias. Un Matin D’Orage reminds me of what the air smelled like when they were in bloom. There is a soft ginger note. Combined with the florals it makes the whole bouquet lean a bit tropical in a beautiful paradise sort of way. I like it because it has a lot of depth and creates an atmmosphere of fragrance imagery around me. I have the EDT version. It is a not heavy floral. The Goutal DNA which can lean slightly bitter keeps it perfectly in check. I think I will be able to wear it a lot in the hotter temperatures of summer. I love it. I won’t be looking for another gardenia perfume for myself because I think Un Matin D’Orage is perfect. I’m not sure if you have any Goutal’s in your perfume collection. I do think that many of their perfumes have a distinct common base and if you don’t like it that might throw it off for you. I really like Goutal perfumes. I have several in my collection. Eau de Charlotte is one of my favorites. I also have and wear Ninfeo Mio, Songes, Heure Exquise, Le Chevrefeuille, Chat Perche, La Violette, Rose Splendide, and Le Temps de Reves. Also if you are wanting a heavier floral the EDP might be better. Hope this helps. March 20, 2023 at 5:41pm
Judith: There’s a Prada Iris Mimosa version. It’s OK. February 27, 2023 at 1:03pm
Kimberly: Thank you Judith. I have Prada Infusion d’Iris on my want list. I haven’t seen the Iris Mimosa. I will have to look for it. February 27, 2023 at 5:33pm
Aurora: Hello Kimberly:Maybe Le Couvent Mimosa would suit you. February 27, 2023 at 1:35pm
Kimberly: Thank you Aurora, I will check it out. I hadn’t heard of it before. February 27, 2023 at 5:36pm
Alityke: Whilst not a mimosa scent at all please sample Hera by Papillon Artisan Perfumes. Liz Moore made it as her daughter Jasmine’s wedding fragrance. It is an Extrait & it it the most beautiful fragrance I have ever smelt. So much so I saved up for a full bottle!
Hera is golden & some how floats around the wearer like a full body halo.
She is a little powdery, as are mimosa fragrances & has both yellow & white florals including traditional orange blossom. Yet Hera is totally of herself rather than her notes. With Hera, Liz Moores has worked her utterly magical skills to conjure a subtle & sublimely feminine fragrance that only those with intimate contact will appreciate.
In all the ultimate wedding day fragrance February 27, 2023 at 1:45pm
Nancy Chan: What about Chloe Herba Mimosa? February 27, 2023 at 5:24pm
Kimberly: I will check it out Nancy. Thank you! February 27, 2023 at 5:31pm
Nina Z: I’m sad about the L’Artisan Mimosa being discontinued. It is so lovely and I only have a decant. Have you tried Modest Mimosa from Vilhelm or Une Fleur de Cassie from Frederic Malle? March 1, 2023 at 8:45pm
Karina_NL: I would definitely recommend Mimosa Austral by Première Note, which is one of my favourite fragances for the end of winter, when I’m starting to crave for spring. March 2, 2023 at 5:34pm
Ugo: Mimosa Tanneron by Jean Claude Ellena for Perris Montecarlo is a very realistic scent with a very dominant mimosa note. Long lasting and splendid and not so expensive. I never find a mimosa like this one March 19, 2023 at 6:35am
Wanda Rawski: Good Morning. I’m going to be in Paris this spring, and would love some recommendations on where to shop for perfume. I’m looking to add Mimosa to my small collection.
Thank you February 27, 2023 at 11:08am
Kimberly: I am going to be in Paris this spring also. I have made a list of the perfume houses I want to visit. I’m going to look for a mimosa at Fragonard. Here is my list:
Guerlain
Chanel
Goutal
Fragonard
L’Artisan
Caron
There are other perfume houses of interest but I may not have the time.
Lutens
Hermes
Parfums De Marly February 27, 2023 at 11:34am
katherine connolly: Definitely go to Lutens. The most beautiful shop I have ever seen! And the perfume is wonderful. February 27, 2023 at 11:38am
Wanda Rawski: Kimberly, thank you! You’ve been very helpful. February 27, 2023 at 6:18pm
Valentyna: If you would like to add mimosa to your collection, there is nothing mimosier than Une Fleur de Cassie by Frederic Malle. It’s an Ode to Mimosa.
If you enjoy your mimosa in a bouquet, try Une Couer de Mai MDCI. It’s a gorgeous rose, peony-mimose creation. Lightweight, but well made and tangible.
If Vagabond Prince still has it, they used to have Swan Princess: this is where mimosa created a close-to-water, pond-like touch, so beautiful, swan princess indeed! February 27, 2023 at 1:04pm
Wanda Rawski: This is all wonderful and helpful information! February 27, 2023 at 6:20pm
AndreaR: Paris is magic and shopping for perfume there will be very special.
May I recommend:
Etat Libre d’Orange
69 Rue des Archives
Frederic Malle
37 rue de Grenelle
Nicolai Perfumeur Createur
80 Rue de Grenelle
Then stop for lunch at Bar de la Croix Rouge
for their Assiette Saint Germain (fancy roast beef sandwich). Good salads as well. Plus Tarte Citron for dessert.
Or, L’Affable
10 rue de Saint Germain.
2 Place Michael Debre
Malle, Etat and Nicolai have other locations in Paris as well, but these are the ones I’m familiar with.
Lutens is a must. February 27, 2023 at 1:35pm
Kimberly: Thank you Andrea, I love the Saint Germain area and have walked along Rue de Grenelle before also. I will definitely be on the lookout for the perfume houses and stop at Bar de la Croix Rouge. I might have eaten there before but don’t remember the name. I also love the area around St Sulpice and weaving in and out of the small streets working by way back to Saint Germain. I will definitely add Lutens to the list. I’ve always wanted to smell Iris Silver Mist. I have Luten’s Tubereuse Criminalle, Bois de Violette, and La Fille de Berlin. It has been four years since I’ve been to Paris. I’m really looking forward to it. February 27, 2023 at 2:37pm
Roxann: I’ve heard Oriza L. Legrand is a lovely shop. I love their Relique d’Amour and Reve D’Ossian. Have fun!!! Not sure if there is Santa Maria Novella there, but their shops are so nice and Lana is an amazing fragrance that I have only found in their shop, not other retailers. March 1, 2023 at 10:32am
rainboweyes: Hasn’t anyone mentioned Jovoy yet? They have a beautiful collection of niche brands March 1, 2023 at 3:34pm
Nina Z: Frederic Malle has a mimosa perfume called Une Fleuri de Cassie. March 1, 2023 at 8:42pm
Sara C: I am wondering: what perfumes make you feel connected to nature? I’m always looking for perfumes that do this for me, and especially ones that connect me with a particular season, pastoral scenes, and forests and meadows.
We are in early spring here in North Carolina, so I have been wearing Hermes Hiris, La Chasse Aux Papillons, En Passant, and Ormonde Woman on colder days. If I owned Iris Silver Mist, I’d be wearing that a lot too (it’s just not in the budget for now!).
I hope to read your ideas and how you connect to nature through perfume. February 27, 2023 at 11:49am
kat: I pick most of my scents according to season, but they don’t conjure images of nature for me. However on a lark I bought ‘Thunderstorm’ by the Library of Fragrance and it comes surprisingly close to what the air smells like after a summery thunderstorm. They also have Petrichor and Snow (among others), might have to try those as well one day. February 27, 2023 at 12:56pm
Aurora: That’s an interesting topic, Sara, Annick Goutal Nuit Etoilée makes me think of walking in a pine forest and connected to nature, Hermès Un Jardin en Méditerranée evokes nature to me as well. February 27, 2023 at 2:22pm
SoSuSam: Eau de Camille by Annick Goutal is always the one I wear in spring. It is very very green, with ivy, privet, honeysuckle, lilac, and grass. Some people say it’s too young for them, but I disagree–it’s spring in a bottle for any age. However…I believe it’s been discontinued. But if you can find a decant/sample, it’s worth trying. Another I love in springtime is Violette Fumee by Mona di Orio. It’s is cold yet green, with violet, clary sage, and vetiver. A real breath of crisp spring air. February 28, 2023 at 11:48am
Klaas: Hi Sara, Muga from Bravanariz is a walk in an evergreen forest. Super natural! His room sprays are tempting as well, there’s one for every season…..I have never smelled them myself but I think I will soon….
And Sisley’s Eau de Campagne is like a nap on a freshly cut lawn.
And Corsica Furiosa: green and resinous with a vengeance! It’s creator, Marc Antoine Cortecchiato for Parfum d’Empire is very much inspired by nature, Corsica to be exact. Check out the brands website! February 28, 2023 at 7:25pm
Rox: Tauer’s L’alpes d’Suisse is a beautiful crisp fragrance that I love!! I have never been to the Swiss Alps, but I imagine he has captured it. March 1, 2023 at 10:34am
Karin: Hello everyone, I am looking for something I love as much as Tabac Blond. I just purchased a few samples, and it was perfect. Except for availability and cost of what is available. Any suggestions? Thanks. February 27, 2023 at 12:18pm
Aurora: Hello Karin: Maybe you might like Knize Ten, it’s a powdery, leather fragrance marketed to men but is completely unisex, and is morec affordable than Tabac Blond. BI think Victoria wrote a review.
Maybe you could also save a a search on eBay and wait for a good price on Tabac Blond. March 1, 2023 at 4:49pm
Karin: Hi Aurora,
Thanks for the suggestion. Tabac blond is crazy expensive on eBay! I have a decant from the Perfumed Court, and I actually have Knize ten in my cart, so thanks for that suggestion! March 2, 2023 at 11:44am
Ugo: “Io non ho mani che mi accarezzino il volto” by Filippo Sorcinelli has the same spicy (clove) and leathery scent of Tabac Blond but more strong and a little bit more pungent but very interesting and long-lasting March 19, 2023 at 6:32am
Sunny: I usually wear unisex fragrances, but I decided to give mens’ fragrances a try.
I’m currently wearing La Nuit de l’Homme by YSL and I’d like some more suggestions of scents that are sold for men but could actually be unisex. I’m looking for springtime ones that are suitable for work (low to moderate sillage), and no patchouli please! February 27, 2023 at 1:03pm
Alityke: I’ve worn JPG Le Male. A barbershop lavender/orange blossom with a vanilla & Tonka base. Great on men & whip-smart on a woman.
Also try The Dreamer by Versace, herbal opening, then iris & lily, finishing with a warmish amber.
I’ve mentioned Guerlain Jicky as a lavender in response above its unisex but give it a go too February 27, 2023 at 2:07pm
John Luna: I’d second the Dreamer! My 20-year old daughter has my bottle now. February 28, 2023 at 6:44pm
Aurora: Hi Sunny: Dior Homme Intense if you like iris is very unisex, I wear it often, or the original Dior Homme, try both, I also like Chanel Egoïste very much, a citrussy sandalwood. I don’t think either have patchouli.
Oh, and there is also Caron pour Un Homme, lavender, vanilla, perfectly unisex to my nose. February 27, 2023 at 2:13pm
Alityke: If you like classic chypres try Chanel Pour Monsieur, a citrus chypre and Aramis a leather chypre February 27, 2023 at 3:35pm
John Luna: Hi Sunny, while these are nothing like the YSL you mentioned, I’d certainly recommend Dior’s Eau Sauvage (the classic from the 60s, not to be confused with the contemporary fragrance called simply, “Sauvage”) and Guerlain’s elegant Vetiver, both of which are just about unbeatable in warm weather, and both of which (on me anyway) have moderate sillage. Another winner is Hermès’ Eau d’Orange Verte (original or the concentrée version — both have their followers!) — admittedly unisex, but the concentrée leans more masculine to my nose. What else? My daughter has been known to steal from my bottles of Guerlain Habit Rouge and Geoffrey Beene Grey Flannel (not so moderate, so watch out!) Recently, I was returning to amber-based fragrances of my youth and thoroughly enjoyed re-experiencing Chanel’s l’Égoïste and Calvin Klein’s Obsession for Men; though both very potent in their day, each has settled down somewhat in these days of reformulation while still remaining recognizably themselves…Less spring-like I admit, but some people like to wear ambers in warm weather (or romantic evenings) so why not? Finally, if you like spicier fragrances, a simple vanilla-incense you can sample at the mall is l’Occitane’s Eau Des Baux. February 28, 2023 at 6:43pm
Klaas: Sunny, John’s list here is spot on!
If you like Vetiver, you could also try Terre d’Hermès or Encre Noir from Lalique, both available on discounter websites of you want to save some money.
Hermes H24 is also very office friendly, bit a ‘smell before you buy’ kind of fragrance because you either love it or hate it…..
And the aforementioned Eau de Campagne from Sisley……cut grass on a summer day……. February 28, 2023 at 7:32pm
Judith: I wear the hyacinth note in Lutyens Bas de soie every February to April. February 27, 2023 at 1:06pm
Amy: Hello everyone. I’m looking for a clean fresh fragrance that reminds you of coastal air, light sage and water, with perhaps a hint of citrus or faint suggestion of a blooming wild shrub in the distance. February 27, 2023 at 2:01pm
Kimberly: Hi Amy, that sounds like the exact description of Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt. I think grapefruit is one the top notes. It has ambrette in it also. Not sure about blooming shrubs. Have you tried it? February 27, 2023 at 2:42pm
Amy: Thanks Kimberly, I’ll definitely try it… it sounds very close to what I’m looking for. Most fragrances end up smelling powdery on me so I’ll keep my fingers crossed! February 27, 2023 at 3:47pm
Nikos: I will have to agree with Kimberly although I find Jo Malone perfumes too expensive for what they offer. Speaking of expensive Parfumeur H has a triptych that could match your description. They are Rain wood, Drift wood and Salt.
Another one that definitely matches your description minus the citrus note is Preperation parfumee by Andree Putman. February 28, 2023 at 5:58am
Amy: These sound like excellent possibilities! Many thanks, Nikos! February 28, 2023 at 10:44am
roxann: Carthusia’s A’mmare is lovely with rosemary, not sage. Carthusia has many Mediterranean inspired fragrances. March 1, 2023 at 10:38am
Amy: Thank you! This will definitely go on my list of samples to try, as well as some of the other fragrances Carthusia makes. March 1, 2023 at 2:14pm
Sara C: Hi Amy,
I second Kimberly’s Jo Malone suggestion! I like the fragrance a lot, but haven’t ever gotten a bottle for some reason. I have some other suggestions you may want to consider. (1) Acqua di Parma Mirto di Panarea–I find it green and reminiscent of the sea, and a touch soapy (but in a really sophisticated way). (2) Sel Marin by Heeley–more wild than Mirto di Panarea to me, untamed, and herbal touches with the sea notes. (3) En Passant by Frederic Malle–nobody mentions salty notes for this one (that I know of), but to me it really smells salty and is reminiscent of springtime somewhere near the sea; the lilac doesn’t hit you over the head, either (but then I have a high tolerance for floral notes). (4) Do Son by Diptyque, which I find very marine. It’s a tuberose fragrance but very oceanic to me, without smelling at all like watery perfumes from the 90s (which I actually love, but many don’t). This one is primarily floral but I think the sea notes are a secondary major player. (5) Basilico and Felini by Vilhelm Parfumerie; this is actually a basil and fig fragrance, but to me it smells like the sea, with basil and fig. Green and bright and makes me think of vacationing in the mediterranean. March 20, 2023 at 2:36pm
Amy Graham: Thank you, Sara! I’m looking forward to trying these, as they all sound like they’re definitely in the ball park, and luckily all five can be found as samples. March 20, 2023 at 9:08pm
Vyvyan: Hello perfume lovers!
Although I love the scent of roses, I have not found a rose perfume I like because often the note is made too polite by powdery or sugary-gourmand notes.
I adore decadent florals – my two all-time favourite perfumes are Serge Lutens A La Nuit and Frederic Malle Carnal Flower.
Could somebody be so kind as to recommend me a rose-dominant perfume as opulent as they are? February 28, 2023 at 2:37pm
Sebastian: For opulent rose perfumes I guess the first address is Amouage. Lyric Womand and Epic Woman are great examples of opulence in rose. However, there is no note of decay in these perfumes, if that’s what you mean by “decadent”.
If you want the fleshy, decaying, animalic facet of Tuberose (thinking of Carnal Flower) combined with a lush rose, Sotto la Luna (Andy Tauer) comes to my mind. February 28, 2023 at 4:47pm
HELENE BYLL: I adore the naturalistic green vibe yet powerful jasmine of the oh so gorgeous À la nuit. For me, the rose equivalent would be l’Ombre dans l’eau Dyptique, mysterious, realistic and not all perfumey, powdery or sugary. March 1, 2023 at 7:59am
Susan: You may enjoy Guerlain’s Nahema, Kurdjian’s Oud Satin Mood, Lutens’ Fille de Berlin, Patou Joy, Chanel 68 Rue de Cambon March 1, 2023 at 10:55am
Aurora: Hello Vyvyan:
I second Sebastian for Amouage roses. Have you tried Guerlain Nahema? It’s a passionfruit rose to my nose.
Also, Caron Parfum Sacré is as opulent as they come, a mix of rose, pepper and resins, very long lasting too. March 1, 2023 at 3:13pm
Nina Z: Nahema by Geurlain is very opulent and not at all gourmand or sugary. See if you can find some vintage to try, March 1, 2023 at 8:40pm
Ugo: Roses if a bygone era is one of my favourite scent and the more opulent of rich they are the more I love them. My selection includes: Rose Absolue by Annick Goutal, Rose de Taif by Perris Montecarlo, Rosa Mistica by Essenzialmente Laura, Rose by Caron, Sa Majesté La Rose by Lutens, Donna by Lorenzo Villoresi, Rose Jam by Lush, Elisabethan Rose by Penhaligon’s, Rosa by L’Erbolario, Rose Millésimée by Jovoy and many others, I can’t recall them all now 🤣 March 19, 2023 at 6:46am
la_ninon: My favorite perfumes are green floral chypres–Niki de St Phalle, vtg Miss Dior, DSH Verte Pour Madame–and mostly autumnal. What springlike fragrances in/near this genre should I try? I already love Givenchy III and Puredistance Antonia…I don’t love the sharpness of Silences and Vent Vert. Interested in contemporary scents as well as vintage. TIA! February 28, 2023 at 3:27pm
Alityke: Have you tried Sisley Eau de Campagne? Tomato vine, basil, citrus gorgeousness. Spring in a bottle. Authored byJean-Claude Ellena February 28, 2023 at 4:26pm
la_ninon: Thank you so much. I admire Ellena’s work, but struggle with culinary herbs/vegetal notes and pronounced citrus. February 28, 2023 at 7:27pm
Sebastian: Hi,
do you know Odalisque (Parfums de Nicolai)? Green, chypre-style lily-of-the-valley perfume, perfect for spring.
Then a bit extravagant, but also very green, intentionally a bit rough around the edges, and also very appropriate for this time of year because centered on narcissus: Miguel Matos’ Club Majestic.
Next, wonderful narcissus chypre, albeit with little moss: Au Delá – Narcisse (Fazzolari). Melancholic like Une fleur de cassie, but much tarter.
Another lovely green floral I like to wear is George (Carine Roitfeld): Galbanum-Jasmin-Rose-Oakmoss, a wonderful neo-chypre (with cannabis taking the place of bergamot.
I also like French Affair (Ex Nihilo), a modern, very slightly animalic rose chypre that seems almost blue to me (rather than green).
On the vintage side perhaps Chamade? Immediately associated with spring through hyacinth and one of my favorite scents ever.
Not especially connected to spring, but great vintage floral chypre I love: Hasu-no-hana (Grossmith)
So many lovely days to look forward to! February 28, 2023 at 4:38pm
la_ninon: These are wonderful suggestions, thank you so much. My not being a rose person excludes some of them, but I’m very interested in the narcissus scents. I’ve only tried the current version of Chamade and wasn’t wowed–I really need to seek out the vintage. And I still haven’t tested Odalisque as I favor true lily vs LOTV, but I hear it’s beautiful. Thank you again! February 28, 2023 at 7:33pm
Sebastian: Have you ever tried Lys Mediterranée? It’s not a chypre, and not especially spring-y, but rather a perfume that can be worn all year round. It’s got white and green and aequous (but not maritime) aspects. If I were to describe its character, I’d say “haughty”. For anyone who loves lily, I believe this is a must-try. March 1, 2023 at 1:50am
la_ninon: I used to have the travel size until a sad accident in my bathroom sink. It’s gorgeous! March 5, 2023 at 1:08am
Hamamelis: Vero Profumo’s Mito, available at campomarzio 70. I love all versions, but the Voile d’Extrait the most.
Dusita’s Fleur de Lalita.
Parfum d’Empire’s Corsica Furiosa. March 1, 2023 at 7:12am
la_ninon: Thanks so much, I only know Fleur de la Lalita among these. I tried to get my hands on Mito years ago, but it’s nowhere to be found here in the States. March 5, 2023 at 1:11am
Klaas: Hey Ninon, the classic green floral Chypre triumvirat, to me, must be Chamade, Private Collection and Scherrer, all of them still in very good shape! Scherrer can be found very cheaply online 😋 February 28, 2023 at 7:36pm
Klaas: And Cristalle! Of course…… February 28, 2023 at 7:40pm
la_ninon: Yes! March 5, 2023 at 1:10am
la_ninon: Thank you, I know Chamade and Scherrer, but still haven’t tried Private Collection–thank you for the reminder! March 5, 2023 at 1:09am
OnWingsofSaffron: Strangely enough, I’m not acquainted with Chanel‘s Cristalle! Before reading this post I was actually browsing Ebay looking for a good deal!
Then I have always prowled around Au delà by Fazzolari—you mention it above—as I love a strong narcissus scent. The discontinued Ostara is also something I don‘t know but read about. So many choices… March 1, 2023 at 4:06pm
OnWingsofSaffron: This post was meant to answer Sebastians! Somehow it jumped the line. Sorry! March 1, 2023 at 4:07pm
Therése: This may be an odd request since I don’t know how to describe this properly, but I’m in the mood for a scent that smells … warm. Not sweet, nor gourmand, but warm, like a glow or a fire or a favourite knit sweater (not smoke). I don’t have any particular notes in mind. Does this even make sense to anyone 🙂 ?
What perfume smells warm to you? March 1, 2023 at 4:19pm
Sebastian: Yes, that’s an odd request 🙂 It’s also an interesting question. Usually, I guess, when speaking of warm fragrances, one would think of rich, resinous, cozy, vanillic stuff one likes to wear in winter. I’d like to get at a different angle, inspired by your speaking of a “glow”. So what perfumes do I know that have a warm glow without being stereotypically cozy?
I just recently came across Djélem by SuléKó. Never had I smelled such an expertly integrated note of immortelle before. No curry, no abrasiveness, just a warm glow from within, reminiscent of the scent of hay. It opens with a sweet blast of tobacco, honey and cognac, then quickly turns dry and warm. I’m sure it will also wear perfectly in the heat of summer.
Another perfume from which I get a warm, golden glow, although it is at the same time somehow cool, is Lutens La Myrrhe. Fascinating. March 1, 2023 at 6:09pm
Therése: Oh, I’m so glad you went with “glow” instead of cozy, it is exactly what I mean. Both Djèlem an La Myrrhe sound very interesting. I will find samples and try them. Thank you! March 2, 2023 at 11:08am
Nina Z: Le Labo has a fragrance called Patchouli 24 that doesn’t actually smell like patchouli but instead smells like a burning wood fire with a little sweetness behind it. Seriously it really smells like a fire. March 1, 2023 at 8:52pm
Therése: That sounds so great, I will check it out. Thank you! March 2, 2023 at 11:09am
Hamamelis: The one perfume that smells really warm in my collection is April Aromatics Pink Wood. To me it literally feels like it is emitting warmth! The oud is very friendly, but the price isn’t… March 2, 2023 at 10:07am
Therése: I’ve never heard of April Aromatics before! Oh how I love discovering new brands, thank you for the tip! March 2, 2023 at 11:12am
OnWingsofSaffron: Not quite sure whether I can nail it: but perhaps Timbuktu by L‘ Artisan Parfumeur? Warm resins, Northern African vibes? If it were a colour, reddish rust hues mixed with brown and sand. March 2, 2023 at 3:26pm
Therése: I love how you describe it by using colours, that is beautiful. It sounds like what I’m looking for, I will try it! Thank you. March 3, 2023 at 5:22am
OnWingsofSaffron: Here another scent, but mind you, I have never smelled it! Wazamba by Parfums d‘Empire:
https://parfumdempire.com/en/parfums/wazamba/ March 3, 2023 at 4:16pm
Sebastian: I have smelled it. Starts with an interesting combination of freshness and chocolate. Then it gets oriental-fruity with sweet apples and plums, still some freshness about it. Then it relaxes into meditative resins, sandalwood, and incense. It’s good, like everything from Parfum d’Empire. On the whole, I found it somewhat subdued and velvety, but not glowing. March 3, 2023 at 6:22pm
Therése: Thank you for this amazing description! March 5, 2023 at 11:41am
Therése: I will test it! Thank you! March 5, 2023 at 11:40am
Sebastian: Do you get the same colors in Au coeur du desert? I’d thought of that, but perhaps it is too yellow? March 3, 2023 at 8:05am
OnWingsofSaffron: By Tauer? I don‘t know that one. I have two Tauers (Phi Une Rose de Kandahar, Fruit Patchouli Flash), and in both I get a heavy dose of something synthetic, something I don‘t really like. Can‘t say what it is though. That‘s a pity as I am so tempted to buy his new Persian palace garden scent but I fear I won‘t like it! March 3, 2023 at 4:11pm
Sebastian: I know what you mean, I feel the same about many Tauer perfumes. Not only do they contain vast amounts of synthetic woods, they are also (and perhaps for that reason) tenacious as hell. At least some are. I wear Au coeur du desert very seldomly exactly for that reason. March 3, 2023 at 4:16pm
OnWingsofSaffron: Reminds me of Dior Oud Isphahan: a never-ending, nuclear power scent with definitely synthetic woods. Everything smells of it: the body after a shower, washed clothes! Ugh! March 3, 2023 at 4:21pm
la_ninon: Victoria did a column, for another publication I believe, a while back about “radiant” fragrances. I don’t have it at my fingertips, but it’s worth a look. March 5, 2023 at 1:13am
Therése: I will see if I can find it! Thank you! March 5, 2023 at 11:39am
Klaas: Hey Therese, L’Air du Desert Maroccain from Andy Tauer jumped to my mind immediately. It is so warm it glows in the dark! Like a ray of sun through the Dutch clouds ……..Glorious…….But you’ve got to like amber. March 5, 2023 at 4:55am
Therése: I haven’t tried any of the Tauers. I will check it out. Thank you! March 5, 2023 at 11:40am
Tourmaline: Hello Everyone,
It’s been a while since I commented, and my world has changed a little. My 94-year-old father broke his leg two days after Christmas, so he has been in hospital ever since. He had surgery but is no longer able to live independently, and this morning he will move into a nursing home. His room has a floor to ceiling window with views of gum trees in the distance. He’ll love that, because for years he did oil paintings of country scenes with gum trees. A bonus is that the room has temperature control, so he’ll no longer be shivering, as he was in the cold hospital room.
Also, I had breast cancer, and on Monday I had a simple lumpectomy. I’ll need radiation, but no chemo, so I consider myself very fortunate. I have been living at my Dad’s house (where I grew up) and minding his cat, Iggy, who now loves me. He used to scratch or bite me if I patted him!
In hospital, a mini spray bottle of “Le Jardin” by Max Factor was helpful – light and fresh. It was discontinued years ago so I’m glad I have some left. At Dad’s place, I’ve been using three different fragrances – Eau d’Orlane (a floral aldehyde) for the very hot days, and either my old favourite, the original Oscar (by Oscar de la Renta), or Elizabeth Taylor’s Diamonds and Rubies for the other days.
It’s now the second day of Autumn here in Australia – not that we get a real Autumn. I look forward to bringing out some of my richer scents as the weather cools.
A very belated Happy New Year to everyone!
With kind regards,
Tourmaline March 1, 2023 at 5:00pm
Aurora: Hello Tourmaline: you’ve dealt with a lot these past months. I hope you will recover quickly from surgery and good luck with the upcoming radiation sessions.
It must be a relief for you that your father will be safe and comfortable in the nursing home, and that you now take care of his cat, it’s lovely that he has become your feline companion.
Scents can be very comforting in stressful times. March 2, 2023 at 6:18am
Tourmaline: Hello Aurora,
Thank you for your kind wishes.
Sadly, it looks as though Dad will never make it to the nursing home. His transfer there was cancelled as his condition had worsened. He is in the palliative care ward (initially brought there because there were lots of spare rooms) and is being kept comfortable with a cocktail of drugs fed under his skin.
My brother and I, along with several other relatives, visited him with Iggy in his cat carrier yesterday. He mainly sleeps, but his cough is awful, and he doesn’t have much strength. He’s on the way out, but he has lived a long and wonderful life to get to age 94.
Yes, scent is certainly a comfort at this time. I wear Oscar to the hospital, knowing that Dad might recognize it as one of my favourites since 1985.
Thanks again.
With kind regards,
Tourmaline March 3, 2023 at 4:18pm
Aurora: Dear Tourmaline, I’m so sorry that your father’s health worsened. Yes, 94 is a venerable age. It must be a great comfort to him that you are looking after Iggy.
Oscar is beautiful, I have and wear it too. March 4, 2023 at 4:53am
Tourmaline: Dear Aurora,
Thank you for your kind words.
The good news is that the nurses are now giving Dad a medication that dries up his lungs a bit, so he is no longer coughing. He is “comfortable and peaceful”, to quote the nurses.
Yes, during his time in hospital, Dad has been relieved to know that I am taking good care of Iggy. We have done three visits with Iggy to the hospital, the final one being on Friday.
I’m glad to hear that you, too, like Oscar. It is so beautiful.
Thanks again.
With kind regards,
Tourmaline March 5, 2023 at 5:21am
la_ninon: Wishing you health, peace, and comfort <3 March 5, 2023 at 1:13am
Tourmaline: Hi la-ninon,
Thank you for your lovely wishes.
With kind regards,
Tourmaline March 5, 2023 at 5:22am
Ruth Griffin: Hello , I wish you a full recovery and am sending warm wishes from the UK.
It’s not a perfume as such but I have a Reed diffuser by Neom which is called “ Happiness” , it has a beautiful spring like fragrance , it reminds me a little of Narcissi and the scent gives me a little lift. Best wishes from
Ruth March 18, 2023 at 6:08am
Tourmaline: Hi Ruth,
Thank you so much for your kind wishes. I hear the results from my second surgery on Thursday, so I have my fingers crossed that I won’t need another operation.
Scents from reed diffusers can be lovely. Moreover, they have the royal seal of approval! I’ve seen them in the background of rooms where her majesty, Queen Elizabeth, was being interviewed at the palace. I have also been given a couple as gifts and very much enjoyed their ambience. I must see whether I can find the one you mentioned.
Thanks again.
With kind regards,
Tourmaline March 21, 2023 at 5:07am
Sara C: Hi Tourmaline,
I always look forward to reading your comments on this blog and have learned a lot from your perfume suggestions! Just wanted to reach out from one stranger to another to say that I wish you and your father a good recovery. March 20, 2023 at 2:57pm
Tourmaline: Hi Sara,
Thank you so much for your kind and heartening comments!
Sadly, my father died last Wednesday, but towards the end he was tired and wanted to go. He lived a long and full life for 94 years. We have his funeral tomorrow, and I finished my eulogy today.
I’ll get my next batch of histology results the day after tomorrow, so I’m hoping they are good!
Thank you again.
With kind regards,
Tourmaline March 21, 2023 at 5:11am
Alityke: Dear Tourmaline
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on your loss.
The end of a good life, well lived, leaves a void in those they have left behind. My thoughts are with you.
I hope your histology results are the best they can be.
I know how difficult it must have been for you
xxx March 21, 2023 at 6:14am
Tourmaline: Dear Alityke,
Thank you for your very kind words. We had Dad’s Memorial Service yesterday, and it was beautiful.
I need to go back for one more surgery next Wednesday, to have a little more tissue removed, but my lymph node was clear. Yay! I am looking forward to more of the hospital food; I actually enjoy it!
Thanks again, and all the best to you.
With kind regards,
Tourmaline March 23, 2023 at 6:56am
Alityke: I hope the surgeons get clear margins.
Good hospital food is something anyone in the Uk can dream of xxx March 23, 2023 at 8:11am
Tourmaline: Thanks so much, Alityke; I hope so too!!
We are fortunate in Australia, to have good hospital food – at least at the Prince Charles Hospital in Brisbane.
With kind regards,
Tourmaline March 25, 2023 at 6:34am
Aki: Dear Perfume enthusiasts, I was wondering if anyone had produced something similar to the discontinued « Nino Cerruti » pour Homme. thank you! March 2, 2023 at 1:01am
Aurora: Hello Aki:
I wish I could help but am unfamiliar with this scent, have you already tried Fragrantica’s page for Nino Cerruti pour Homme, the ‘this perfume reminds me of’ section? sorry if you have done that already and I hope someone else will be able to help. March 2, 2023 at 2:53pm
Purple: It’s still winter where I live, and I’ve been hankering for a scent which does well in a cold climate, but conjures up a summery feeling. So not a summer fragrance, but a summery fragrance, it that makes any sense. Then, unexpectedly, coconut came to mind. Sweet, warm, coconut fragrance. This is a category I’m not very familiar with. What do you think?
Or could be something other than coconut, I just want it to make me feel something of the summer, but that does well around 0 degrees Celsius. 🙂 March 2, 2023 at 7:59pm
Sebastian: I can’t recommend anything with coconut. For me, many perfumes with non-sweet white flowers and even some aquatic notes work well in the winter, iris, too, and cool incense. Here are some summery scents for wintertime:
Dior Eden-Roc: salty and mineral notes that go well with crisp winter air. Warmer at the end. Delicious remains in one’s scarf.
Prada Infusion d’Iris: nice mix of cool, smooth, and warm notes.
Hermessence Épice Marine: cool, translucent, a bit acerbic.
F. Malle Lys Mediterranée: white-green, but not sweet, the heavy lily blooms in the cold. (This is an amazing perfume that works in all weathers.)
Parfum d’Empire Vetiver Bourbon: A cool, damp, fresh, green vetiver, not rooty, but smoothed out with iris and a few spices.
Aedes de Venustas Copal Azur: clean, crisp, lemony, mentholic, green incense. Another of those cool-warm scents. CdG Zagorsk also works, though it is a bit more churchy, the incense-pepper combination really shines in cold air. March 3, 2023 at 3:11pm
Aurora: Hi: I Profumi Di Firenze Frangipane e Coco is a coconut that fares well in winter as it has an incensey, resinous base. March 4, 2023 at 4:58am
Hamamelis: I love wearing Goutal’s Songes in winter, no coconut, but because of the frangipani it has a ‘coconutty’ feeling. It is one of the most beautiful perfumes I own. March 3, 2023 at 7:55am
Purple: Thank you so very much for all these lovely recommendations! I actually have a bottle of FM Lys Meiterranée, it was my first from FM, and I love it very much. I remember once thinking it’s like the little sister to Carnal Flower – not all together, just in some smaller aspect that I had picked up on at that very time. It’s the white flowers I guess, and Lys M being lighter … no, not lighter … meybe fresher and cooler? And I do agree it works all seasons. Even thougn I’m looking for something a bit different, I’m so happy you remainded me of it, as I haven’t worn it for quite some time, which I want to amend emidiately! March 3, 2023 at 8:17pm
Purple: I don’t know what happened here, anyway, this was meant as an answer to Sebastian. Thanks again. March 3, 2023 at 8:19pm
Josey: Can anyone recommend a vanilla leather perfume, preferably with musk? Feminine or unisex. Thank you! March 5, 2023 at 8:46pm
Emily: The ultimate would be Bvlgari Black, which was unfortunately discontinued. Until recently it was still available online & inexpensive (if a watered down version of its former glory) but I’ve noticed lately that prices have shot up dramatically-the grey market sites must have run out of overstock.
Sorry that my only recommendation is elusive! March 7, 2023 at 1:20pm
Aurora: Hi Josey: I can recommend Knize Ten, I find it perfectly unisex and Cuir Ottoman, I haven’t tried this one but the house Parfum d’Empire is very good. March 7, 2023 at 3:17pm
Sara C: Hi Josey! Two come to mind that are leather and vanilla heavy, and epically good: Byredo 1996 and Tom Ford Noir (for men, not the extreme versions; this one is discontinued but available at grey dealers). Both are unisex leaning masculine to me, but I’m femme and have tested both and would wear both. The Tom Ford Noir is sexy beyond measure, in my mind. Neither of these read as musky to me, though; I sort of feel like musk notes can’t compete with leather and vanilla (in the sense that, in modern perfumes, leather and vanilla seem to overpower lots of other notes in general, in my opinion). Of course Shalimar edp is leather, vanilla, and musk. March 20, 2023 at 3:16pm
Ally: I have a hair oil – Davines Oi Oil, and I love the scent! It disappears from my hair quickly, so I’d love to find a scent which I can wear and lasts all day. Can anyone recommend something? March 7, 2023 at 5:14pm
Ally: Another question – does anyone remember Gap Grass from the 90’s? Is there an “adult” version of this? I’m reading Victoria’s reviews about green scents and realized that’s what I’m missing. I love to eat bitter greens and most scents I smell are too girly or watery or (I am new at scents and don’t have the vocabulary yet) too… loose feeling. I like crisp and bitter. Is there an arugula of perfumes?! March 8, 2023 at 10:01pm
Alityke: I would suggest Sisley Eau de Campagne. Smell like a cool greenhouse. Tomato vines & basil.
You must try the mama of all greens Chanel No 19 March 9, 2023 at 5:12am
Ally: Merci!
Someone recommended perfumedcourt.com for samples so I ordered:
-Vent vert
-Corsica Furiosa
-L’ombre dans L’eau
-Lutens de profundis
Will have to try Chanel 19 separately. I live in a small rural place with no access to most of these so have to order everything! March 9, 2023 at 2:59pm
therabbitsflower: I’m reading this very late but for modern biiter greens try Monsillage Eau de Celeri. Another very good one is to Apoteker Tepe Anabasis, but I find it very, very similar to Eau de Celeri. March 16, 2023 at 10:49am
Ally: Thanks! I received the ones listed above and like the Corsica Furiosa first. Still developing language around it but the Lutens de Profundis was a bit spicy, the Lombre Dans Leau fruity (I really dislike fruity scents other than grapefruit), and the Vent Vert, I don’t have the language yet to describe what it is I don’t like but it’s not what I’m looking for.
I wonder if what we crave scent-wise has something to do with what we crave food-wise? 🤔 Celeri sounds fascinating, celery is often used in cleansing juices, it’s so fresh and light I will try that one soon! March 17, 2023 at 3:24pm
Ruth Griffin: Hello ! Please can you or anyone recommend a perfume to replace the sadly discontinued Byredo Seven Veils ? I flipping love that perfume and am very sad that Byredo have stopped making it Thankyou March 18, 2023 at 6:01am
Jenny Gladding: I have loved discovering this blog! It seems that most of my favorite perfumes become discontinued. I’ve worn several of the older Penhaligon’s perfumes for the past 30 years or so…Ormolu, Violetta & sometimes Bluebell. Otherwise I adore fig scents and have tried many samples related to what I’ve learned here. I liked Diptyque Philosykos best but find that it barely lasts on the skin beyond its first application. Is this true of the perfume or perhaps the sample is not fresh?? I hesitate to invest in a larger bottle because of this. I do wear Brazilian Lime and Fig by Beauty Pie in the summer but find the lime scent is more forward than I like. I ordered a sample of Penhaligon’s The Favourite and I like it fairly well but find the musk scent of the base to be a bit strong. I recently smelled a vintage Lanvin Arpege on a friend and just wanted to dive inside his jacket as I was so enchanted with the scent. So…if you have recommendations based upon these preferences I’d be glad to know of them. June 26, 2023 at 9:57am
Victoria: Hi Jenny, welcome to Bois de Jasmin! This thread is not that active anymore, but we have a new one open–https://boisdejasmin.com/2023/06/recommend-me-a-perfume-june-2023.html
Please post your question there and I am sure that someone will have an idea for you. June 26, 2023 at 10:06am