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!
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
Zazie: Hi everyone! I’m looking for a stunning jasmine perfume.
The soliflores – a la nuit, Sarrasins, Madagascan jasmine, jasmine rouge, are nice but incredibly boring.
The “real” perfumes: vintage n. 5 extrait, Gold, Samsara, Amaranthine, etc are gorgeous. But they do not scratch that specific white flower itch when it hits, though I do love them immensely. Jasmine is there, but it’s a bit too hidden.
I am looking for something that smells EXACTLY like Cire trudon’s Madurai room diffuser (and in lesser degree, the candle).
An almost-soliflore with such an opulent and skin-like foundation that makes your heart soar onto wings of white petals. Its impeccable simplicity is its own ornament, not a reason for boredom.
(In a different vein, that’s what I feel about Kai, which does scratch the immacolate white floral itch, but is a bit too fresh this time of year)
Thank you!
PS nothing with too much white musk, please. Kai is an huge exception as I usually hate anything fresh and clean. January 29, 2024 at 7:56am
Lynley: Does Diptyque Olene fit the bill? I love that it’s more of a sambac jasmine scent so a bit different, will have a think of others though.. January 29, 2024 at 10:12am
Camilla: Thanks I’ll try it! January 31, 2024 at 2:25am
Nina Z: Maybe California Reverie by Van Cleef & Arpels? It’s a slightly citrusy white floral with jasmine sambac, neroli, and frangipani. It is richer than Kai but is in te similar ballpark (I grew up in Southern California). January 29, 2024 at 11:10am
Nina Zolotow: Victoria has a beautiful review of this one: https://boisdejasmin.com/2015/09/van-cleef-arpels-california-reverie-fragrance-review.html January 29, 2024 at 11:28am
Zazie: Thanks I’m familiar with it! I like it but unfortunately I’m not in love. I’m looking for a very specific (probably too specific) kind of heft. Reverie has a lovely lighthearted feeling, but it does not have that abundance of waxy petals that I wish to bury myself in! 🙂 January 31, 2024 at 2:28am
Cheryl G: I am so into this request, as I share your passion…I just lack the energy for the hunt of “That Perfect One!” January 29, 2024 at 12:20pm
Aurora: Hi Zazie, I second Diptyque Olène, so well balanced between indolic and green and would add one I’m curious about Grandiflora Madagascan Jasmine, I so want to try that one. January 29, 2024 at 1:46pm
Camilla: Thanks will try! January 31, 2024 at 2:24am
hera: I really love Madonna Truth or Dare, sounds exactly what you are describing or Fracas. January 29, 2024 at 3:09pm
Rose: Chanels no 22 . I do not know what Cire Trudon’s Madurai smells like but I used to love Orlene and would have recommended that but now Chanel 22 does it for me jasmine wise. January 29, 2024 at 6:38pm
Zazie: Thank you, Love Fracas! But to my nose is more about orange flower and tuberose than about jasmine!
Must retry Truth or dare. January 31, 2024 at 2:19am
Rose: Chanels no 22 . I do not know what Cire Trudon’s Madurai smells like but I used to love Orlene and would have recommended that but now Chanel 22 does it for me jasmine wise. January 29, 2024 at 6:40pm
Zazie: Thanks, I’ll give it another try. Like for songes below, 22 feels more powdery and feminine than the kind of scent I’m looking for. January 31, 2024 at 2:23am
Nina Z: I just remembered Songes by Annick Goutal, which Victoria gives 5 stars! While based on jasmine sambac, it also includes tiare and frangiapani, and it is softer and richer than the soliflores you mentioned. Dreamy indeed! It is still my favorite jasmine perfume. https://boisdejasmin.com/2006/01/annick-goutal-songes-perfume-review.html January 30, 2024 at 11:15am
Zazie: Thank you, I own it! But rarely wear it. I agree it is beautifully made, but it has a powdery, opaque quality that is very different from the Madurai scent I love so much… January 31, 2024 at 2:21am
la_ninon: Moon Bloom is my favorite white floral, with a stunning jasmine note, but it does read “tuberose” overall to me. Fueguia Amalia is beautiful, but possibly boring.
Would you mind sharing briefly about the Cire Trudon Madurai candle? I’ve wanted it for ages, but would love to know why you prefer the diffuser. January 31, 2024 at 2:21pm
Zazie: Hi! Thanks for the suggestion!
I particularly like the diffuser because it wafts the scent in a way that reminds me of real plants: it’s subtle, but it’s present and occasionally surprises me off guard.
It’s like walking by a jasmine bush, sometimes the scent is stronger, sometimes lighter…
The candle is less layered and less delicate, though I do like it.
(My favorite Cire Trudon candle is the gianbattista valli rose poivree. I would love a perfume like that too)
Trudon’s diffuser is one of my favorites, the scent is not too strong, but it doesn’t fade away in a few weeks time. I use just two sticks at a time. February 2, 2024 at 7:25am
la_ninon: Thank you so much, I really appreciate this feedback! Please post in the next Recommend Me thread if you find your jasmine 🙂 February 3, 2024 at 3:28pm
Judy: I have something of a jasmine obsession.
Here is a short list at various price points in no particular order from quite inexpensive to fairly expensive.
Rogue Perfumery Jasmin Antique
Lush Lust
Amouage Opus IV
Perfumer’s Workshop Tea Rose Jasmin February 7, 2024 at 9:38pm
Noemi: It’s cold in New England so it’s time to hide myself in a library or used bookstore. I do it all over the year, but in Fall and Winter feels better. Bibliothèque by Byredo, Whispers in the Library by Margiella with a hint of Santal Majuscule in the scarf and hat are my happy places. January 29, 2024 at 9:19am
la_ninon: Thank you for sharing this lovely scene. Enjoy! January 31, 2024 at 2:23pm
Alexander Greene: I’m looking for something that makes me feel like I’m walking through a pine forest by the sea in summertime. The pinetta in italy is my inspiration. Myrtle could be part of it but pine needs to be the principal note- dry and resinous. One of my favourites was D’humeur à Rien by l’artistan parfumeur. January 29, 2024 at 9:26am
Lynley: Maybe Lutens’ Fille en Aiguilles? I’m not hugely familiar with pine forests but it does seem more like a summer pine forest than a winter one, but not sure about it being by the sea… that’s not a landscape I have here in Oz 🙂 January 29, 2024 at 10:07am
Alexander Greene: Yes it’s lovely but too fruity for me- I’m looking for something less sweet- it’s still my favourite Serge- which is crazy really. January 29, 2024 at 2:16pm
Lynley: If you like the dryness, does a fragrance like Caron Yatagan fit the bill? I love this on hot, dry, scorched earth days. Not at all sweet to me. January 31, 2024 at 2:44am
Hamamelis: Maybe Maria Candida Gentile Finisterre? Perhaps more sea than pine, but it has both. Another pine is Goutal Nuit Etoilee, and you could try Tom Ford Costa Azzurra. January 29, 2024 at 10:44am
Alexander Greene: Thank you- finisterre is new to me. The others I have but aren’t rich and resinous enough for me. January 29, 2024 at 2:17pm
Adam: Not sure if it’s the forest you’re looking for, but you may want to check out Targhee Forest by Rogue Perfumery January 29, 2024 at 11:17am
Alexander Greene: A nice one to try thank you. January 29, 2024 at 2:32pm
Emily: Papillon’s Spell 125 is pine + ambergris. January 29, 2024 at 12:16pm
Alexander Greene: This sounds amazing! Thank you January 29, 2024 at 2:34pm
Adam Sultan: I love Spell 125, but I wouldn’t classify it as pine, despite what the notes say. To me it’s more of an animalic amber vibe with a camphoracious note. Kind of in the same ball park as L’air du Desert Morocain. January 29, 2024 at 7:27pm
Rene Saller: Have you tried Pino Silvestre? If nothing else, it’s inexpensive, so you wouldn’t be out a whole lot if it didn’t work for you. Some people swear by this classic Italian fougère. January 29, 2024 at 12:42pm
Alexander Greene: I have a huge bottle but not resinous enough- a wonderful perfume all the same- thank you. January 29, 2024 at 2:34pm
Aurora: Hi Alexander: Also try Acqua Di Parma Cipresso di Toscana. January 29, 2024 at 1:49pm
Alexander Greene: Thank you a lovely idea- I will hunt it down. January 29, 2024 at 2:36pm
Koa Pickering: ADP Cipresso di Toscana is quite nice and not as scratchy/synthetic as many ADP that I have sampled, as is ADP’s Cedro di Taormina.
If you are open to a lovely woody accord that is not necessarily distinctly pine, Eau d’Hadrien from Annick Goutal is fantastic for summer. Beautiful Amalfi Lemon in the opening, with some grapefruit in mandarin, with a woody, herbaceous heart. The vintage is worth seeking out. January 29, 2024 at 4:31pm
Klaas: Hey Alexander, if you get the chance, try Muga by Bravanariz. Very piney, very summery, but no sea I’m afraid…..
It’s a great one to smell anyways! January 30, 2024 at 2:59pm
Gabriela: I second this suggestion. Brava Nariz is such a beautiful brand and Ernesto, the founder is a great person. January 31, 2024 at 11:21am
OnWingsofSaffron: Perhaps Goutal Encens Flamboyant? Incense and pine—rather fetching! January 31, 2024 at 12:15am
Sebastian: If ever you see it (it’s long discontinued and was rare to start with), get a bottle of “Pine Forest” by MGO Duftanker. It has always conjured up in my mind the exact image that you describe. (And I will try to persuade Hans-Georg Staudt to make more of it, but probably to no avail.) January 31, 2024 at 5:47pm
Esther Cohn: I started wearing First in 1985 but think the formula has changed. It doesn’t smell the same to me. But maybe it’s me! I bought Baccarat 540 extrait and can’t smell it on myself. The same thing happened with Bulgari White Tea which I adored on someone else and when I used it, I thought the bottle was filled with water! I like sweet, floral fragrances but would like to enjoy them when I wear them. Please help! January 29, 2024 at 10:13am
Nina Zolotow: For sure the formula for First has changed! The formulas for all the perfumes from that era have due to restrictions on ingredients, cost concerns, etc. I think you should start a project for yourself of trying samples of all the sweet florals you can find (or testing in stores) to find a new love for yourself. Don’t buy anything without testing it on your skin and wearing it for a day.
That being said, it also sounds like you are asnosmic (can’t smell) to certain modern perfume ingredients. I’ve definitely heard of others who cannot smell Baccarat 540 so you are not alone in that. Maybe someone else here knows which ingredient that is? But, again, don’t buy a perfume until you give it a good wear.
Victoria has this post about how to get samples, but also if you tell us where you live, we can make suggestions about how to get them. https://boisdejasmin.com/2015/11/perfume-samples-where-to-get-and-how-to-store.html January 29, 2024 at 12:19pm
Nancy: Very helpful. Thanks for the guidance on how to get samples. January 29, 2024 at 4:17pm
Karina: I think Amouage Gold, Chanel Nr 5 and (to a lesser extent perhaps) Chanel Nr22 have a lot on common with First. Another one on that vein is Hermes‘ 24 Faubourg. January 30, 2024 at 3:10am
Old Herbaceous: Maybe Riviera Drive or Riviera Lazuli by Atelier des Ors. January 29, 2024 at 10:15am
Melanie Lechner: Hello, I am looking for a perfume that can convey the feeling of ” springtime in Japan”. I have tried Elizabeth Arden “Green tea” and ” Matcha Morning”. I have the feeling that they lack some freshness and I am not fond of sweet and fruity scents. I am grateful for any recommendations. January 29, 2024 at 10:29am
Aurora: Hi Melanie: if we stay with jasmine tea, have you tried the best one Bvlgari Eau Parfumée au thé vert? January 29, 2024 at 1:58pm
Melanie: Hi Aurora, I will definitely give it a try. Thank you for your recommendation! January 30, 2024 at 7:00am
Melanie: Hi Aurora, I will definitely give it a try.I haven’t thought of it before. Thank you for your recommendation! January 30, 2024 at 7:01am
Neva: Hi Melanie, the brand Floraiku is inspired by Japan and their poetry. They have many beautiful perfumes in their range and I’m sure you will find something that suits you. Most of them are airy, clean, with tea notes and rice. January 29, 2024 at 4:33pm
Melanie: Dear Neva, thank you for the tip. will definitely look it up and order a sample! January 30, 2024 at 7:04am
Karina: Hermes Rose Ikebana! To me that one IS spring in Japan January 30, 2024 at 3:12am
Elizabeth: Please help me smell like a creamsicle that grows so tart you pucker your lips. If anyone used that darling & departed little pink star “Double Vitality” bath melt at lush, I’m craving something like that bracing blend of peppermint and lemon, but without veering into barbershop notes if possible. Just something so zippy and bright and refreshing, where the zest clings for dear life alongside whatever snuggly accompaniment is waiting at the drydown.
Thank you!! January 29, 2024 at 10:53am
Aurora: Hi Elizabeth: Maybe try the very citrussy, very special Diptyque Oyedo, it’s quite unique. January 29, 2024 at 2:15pm
Alityke: If you want lemons, lemons and tart lemons please try Alvarez Gomez Agua de Colonia Concentrada. It’s the tartest citrus fragrance I know & cheap as chips. There are bath & body products too. Available on Amazon but make sure you get the “Concentrada” which has about 4 hrs longevity.
The standard cologne is great post shower but doesn’t last. January 31, 2024 at 5:31am
Lee: Hello all! I’m chasing a vintage Italian perfume scent that I remember from my childhood. It is Ebrezza Marina (Bertelli). I’ve seen the bottle for sale but never the perfume. The best way I can describe it is ambergris/marine. Any suggestions for a current scent to try?
Thanks! January 29, 2024 at 11:13am
Alexander Greene: I l found a miniature bottle for you- not for sale any more but misspelt.
https://picclick.it/Vecchi-Profumi-Mignon-Mini-Parfum-Vintage-Brezza-Marina-155903833436.html
Is this the right one? You may have some luck with this spelling as Ebbrezza isn’t normal italian spelling. January 29, 2024 at 2:48pm
Lee: Thank you! That’s very interesting! I wonder if it is in some way related to the one I’m thinking of. It’s definitely a different bottle, the one I remember (my mother had it) is very distinctive–green sea glass/whale on stopper. Here is an example:
https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/vintage-ebbrezza-marina-bertelli-2853923660 January 29, 2024 at 3:18pm
Alexander Greene: It’s the same perfume in a miniature bottle- and they misspelt the name when listing it on eBay- it may happen again! January 29, 2024 at 4:33pm
Lee: This makes me hopeful about finding it…I’m in the US so I know that will make it a challenge, though. Thanks so much for your detective work! January 29, 2024 at 4:47pm
Lotte: Loving this. Just wanted to add a quick note, Italian reader here. Brezza and Ebbrezza are really two different words, the first one meaning Breeze and the second one Dizziness, or Thrill. I guess it does make a difference when it comes to scent imagery January 30, 2024 at 6:55am
Lee: Thank you Lotte, both words make sense in the context of a marine scent, don’t they? January 30, 2024 at 10:26am
Lotte: For sure… Different feelings though. I’d say Brezza (Marina) will make you think of pure, natural freshness. There’s also an idea of simplicity as it’s an everyday word. Whereas Ebbrezza is on the literary side, or connected to drinking wine. Think Rimbaud’s Le bateau ivre. I believe your memory of the fragrance itself will help you see which name matches best January 31, 2024 at 6:04am
Lotte: Anyway, looking through both pictures it’s definitely Ebbrezza, not Brezza! January 31, 2024 at 6:17am
Lee: Yes, I have such a clear memory of the green, sea glass-looking bottle with the whale on the stopper, definitely Ebbrezza. I remember the scent as being extraordinary, I really think Bertelli used genuine ambergris when it was made in the mid 1900s! January 31, 2024 at 11:28am
Lotte: Just wonderful! January 31, 2024 at 12:21pm
Trudy: I’m having the same experience with Baccarat 540. I have a sample decant and I can’t smell a thing. Sometimes I think I get a whiff of something rather astringent but then it’s gone. So frustrating when all hear about is how wonderful it is. January 29, 2024 at 11:24am
Trudy: ooops I meant my comment above as a reply to Esther’s comment about Baccarat Rouge. January 29, 2024 at 11:27am
Nancy: All my favorites pre-date severe restrictions on certain materials and/or problems with access to others. I would love to find a currently available scent as distinctive as Replique by Raphael, Mystere de Rochas, Ralph Lauren Safari, Guerlain Samsara, or Germaine Monteil Bakir. I have also worn Joy, Shalimar, Spanish Geranium, and Anais Anais. (You can perhaps judge my advanced age by these examples.) I am comfortable with complex fragrance and powerful sillage. Recently purchased Guerlain formulations of Samsara and Shalimar are wearable but not compelling. I can also wear Chanel Chance Eau Fraiche. Tom Ford Noir Extreme is far too gourmand for my taste. I am not widely experienced with fragrance but love reading about it. Please help me find something new. January 29, 2024 at 12:41pm
Aurora: Maybe time to try Serge Lutens, in particular La Myrrhe, it has a retro aura. January 29, 2024 at 2:19pm
Nancy: Thanks, Aurora. I’ve been intrigued by the Serge Lutens, and you’re right. I should sample them. January 29, 2024 at 4:29pm
Aurora: Hi Nancy: *I think my first reply got lost
Maybe time to try Serge Lutens La Myrrhe, it has a retro aura, also Chanel Le Lion which resembles Shalimar and is very strong. January 29, 2024 at 2:26pm
Alexander Greene: I have litres of Joy left over from my mother if you want some January 29, 2024 at 2:49pm
Nancy: How kind of you to offer your Mama’s Joy, Alexander. I’m going to pass on it, however, in search of something contemporary. January 29, 2024 at 4:42pm
Alityke: I think we are of a similar vintage. I agree about exploring the Serge Lutens line but they are a bit spendy now.
Recent Rochas formulations seem to be very well done. I have both Femme & Tocade. They are both glorious. I don’t know if Mystere is still on their roster though. Another excellent modern version of a classic is Cabochard de Gres in the chunky squarish bottle.
All these are available quite cheaply online but testing is a challenge.
You might want to try buying some samples from either perfumeries who do samples, sample specialists or direct from the perfumer. January 29, 2024 at 4:48pm
Nancy: Thanks, Alityke. I’ll definitely have to start ordering samples. Where I live, only big name, mall department store fragrances are available to try. January 30, 2024 at 8:15am
Alityke: Surrender to Chance or Luckyscent will have samples I guess.
For bottles of the vintage scents you love try preloved marketplaces too January 31, 2024 at 5:36am
Nina Z: I suggest you check out the early fragrances from Amouage,especially like Gold, Jubilation 25, which is a gorgeous chypre, Lyric, Epic, etc. These are rich, complex perfumes, with high quality ingredients, that evoke the masterpieces of the last century. January 30, 2024 at 11:21am
Patricia Anne Bryan: I live on a pension so have a very limited budget for perfumes.Would like suggestions for ylang-ylang,woodsy and chypre fragrances.My upper limit is $50. January 29, 2024 at 1:07pm
Aurora: Hello Patricia: Have you tried Guy Laroche Fidji for Ylang-Ylang, Courrèges Empreinte for a very good chypre? Those two are very affordable online at the discounters, I recommend FragranceNet, and for woods Lush Shade is good, the 30ml bottle is well within your budget and there are many Lush stores. January 29, 2024 at 2:36pm
Rene Saller: I think the best bang for your buck will come from the original White Diamonds, by Elizabeth Taylor. All the available formulations, pure parfum, EDP, and EDT, are quite reasonable; the original White Diamonds reminds me a bit of Ysatis, only it’s much less expensive. I think the quality remains high, although reformulations vary, I understand. I have never bought one that didn’t smell pretty good, and you can buy that baby for a song on the discount sites and eBay. January 29, 2024 at 3:59pm
OnWingsofSaffron: My suggestion is to hunt perfumes on ebay where you can limit your budget accordingly yet still with good luck stumble across some gem which at regular price would cost a fortune! January 31, 2024 at 12:19am
Sebastian: Jean-Louis Scherrer is an excellent, very typical chypre. Scherrer 2 is wonderful. The new Cabochard (2019) EdP is a leathery chypre that is both very affordable and very close to the vintage version. I also love Arpège, which is available nowadays at a bargain price. January 31, 2024 at 6:01pm
Hamamelis: I suggest Tasmeen by la Via del Profuma. It is the most beautiful ylang and it fits your budget! February 1, 2024 at 11:54am
Alityke: I may be about to make some folk faint with this suggestion.
Avon! The fragrances are created by the same perfumers as designer & niche. Their classic Far Away is my “hug” in a fragrance. A 100ml bottle is currently £24.50 in the UK. Another comfort scent from them is Soft Musk which is currently £5.50 for 50ml. The best bit about Avon fragrances is they come in 10ml travel sprays for under £10. They also sell samples of new fragrances for £1. So you can try before you buy. February 2, 2024 at 4:13am
Mariann: Try the Body Shop Ylang perfume if its still available, its wonderful! February 17, 2024 at 3:27pm
Perstare: After many sniffs, I’ve finally fallen in love with Louis Vuitton’s Ombré Nomade. Its manifest masculine rose raspberry Oud profile is intoxicating. Before I hit the trigger are there any other similar fragrances I should consider? I’ve tried Andrea Mack’s Pavilion and Simone Andreoli’s Rose of Dangerous Flamenco and while each is gorgeous they don’t compare to Ombré Nomade. I of course want to shun the grandmotherly feel of the many rose fragrances. Any suggestions? January 29, 2024 at 1:46pm
Josey: Hello! I’d love a rec for a perfume that smells like the opening of Guerlain Shalimar extrait (modern), ie, a plush, creamy bergamot vanilla. Thank you! January 29, 2024 at 1:51pm
Terry Futrelle: Josey, I am a true lover of Shalimar! I have been wearing it almost weekly for 50 years. I would like to suggest you try, “Valkyrie”, by Sylvaine Delacourte, Paris. She once worked for Guerlain! You can purchase her, “Vanilla” collection sample set and try them all before buying. My favorite turned out to be, “Valkyrie”! It reminded me so much of Shalimar! Now, I enjoy using them, both! Very creamy and lovely…I get compliments every time I wear it! I hope you will check it out! January 29, 2024 at 3:47pm
Alityke: Please try Les Abstraits Belle Ame January 31, 2024 at 5:41am
Mademoiselle: Leather! I’m looking for a subtle, elegant, realistic, raw yet feminine leather. In my collection, these are the leathers I like best: Cuir by Molinard, Cuir Intense by Guerlain, Cuir de Russie by Chanel. Other leathers I have tested but which are not to my taste: Galop by Hermès, Peau d’Espagne by Santa Maria Novella, Club Design by The Zoo. I know Memo has a ton of leathers but I don’t live near any stores where I can smell them. I enjoy floral facets but I’m looking for just a hint of rose or jasmine or osmanthus – nothing too sweet or cloying. Bordering on imperceptible would be perfect. Hints of green or spice could be interesting, but nothing candy-like. Dry, dry, dry is my preference. As natural as possible too (any one hundred percents out there?). Budget: under $300 but I’m not a snob. If there’s a fab leather out there for $30 I would definitely not look down on it (low chance of it being natural though, I assume).
The leathers I like from my collection are great but I need something less spicy than Cuir by Molinard, more leathery than Chanel’s Cuir de Russie, yet less leathery (only slightly so) than Guerlain’s Cuir Intense. Picky, right?
Thanks for any help! January 29, 2024 at 4:08pm
Mademoiselle: Also, I’m not interested in ambery leathers or gourmand leathers. Something with tobacco could be interesting but I really want to stay away from sweetness. If it starts smelling like caramel, it isn’t for me. I’m looking for simplicity here – a watercolor étude as Victoria described the work of Jean-Claude Ellena – not the deep, intense, incredibly complex scents from 100 years ago like Caron’s Tabacs or Molinard’s Habanita. A low register though, nothing bright or high-pitched. 😉 January 29, 2024 at 4:18pm
Hamamelis: Have you tried Cuir d’Ange? Maybe not dry enough but watercolor it is…The only caveat, it may be discontinued. Sometimes it is back on the Hermes site, then it disappears again. The travelsize seems available though. January 30, 2024 at 5:00am
Mademoiselle: Ooooh, sounds tempting! Thanks for the tip 😉 January 30, 2024 at 6:56am
Collar Wilson: Hermes Kelly Caleche is an amazing leather fragrance. January 29, 2024 at 6:47pm
Mademoiselle: Mmmm. Will definitely seek out a sample. Thanks! January 30, 2024 at 6:55am
Lynley: Have you tried Knize Ten? I love leathers but the more leathery they are the more I wheeze and with Knize Ten I could hardly breathe! 😆 but this might be a good scale of leather for you? Also perhaps try Tom Ford? There’s a couple of leathers in his line up from memory.
Memo Italian Leather isn’t as leathery as some of the other Memos but imo it’s delicious! I think you could try samples at places like Luckyscent or Surrender to Chance if you wanted to experiment. January 29, 2024 at 8:46pm
Mademoiselle: Thanks Lynley! I’ll check out sampling options. January 30, 2024 at 6:54am
AndreaR: You might read Victoria’s description of Serge Luten’s Chergui to see if it ticks your boxes. January 30, 2024 at 12:16am
Mademoiselle: Thank you 🙂 January 30, 2024 at 6:53am
Ariadne: Mademoiselle, I’ll try: how about Bottega Veneta eau de parfum (the plain one from 2011)? Leather and jasmin. Overture in pink pepper, and you can really smell it for a bunch of minutes. For me, the most elegant of them all! February 1, 2024 at 7:49am
Ariadne: I add it smells like a leather jacket in a garden in may. Worth a try! February 1, 2024 at 7:52am
Mademoiselle: Oooh… sounds absolutely scrumptious! I’ll seek out a sample. Thanks for the tip 🙂 February 1, 2024 at 2:18pm
Sumayya Usmani: Hi all. I’m looking for a perfume that really feels like me. I just can’t seem to find anything. I used Michael Kors original perfume that is no longer made, I know such a random one in the sea of so many beautiful classics but something about it suited me. Then I used Chloe Tuberose which I’m unable to buy anywhere now in the U.K. I like floral yet musky scents. I do not like overly powdery and fruity ones. I also get migraines from most perfumes which is why these two are the only ones that did not give me a migraine. Thank you ! Budget is £150-200. January 30, 2024 at 2:08am
Nina Z: It sounds like you like tuberose! You could check out Moon Bloom by Hiram Green, available online. It is a beautiful all natural tuberose perfume. Maybe all natural will not trigger migraines? January 30, 2024 at 11:24am
Aurora: Hello Sumayya: So sorry that your favorites are discontinued. Have you tried Estée Lauder Private Collection Tuberose Gardenia to see if it suits you? January 30, 2024 at 11:43am
Collar: Missing Person by Phlur is a floral musk perfume and Mojave Ghost by Byredo is also a floral musk perfume. In my opinion, you can’t go wrong with either of these. January 30, 2024 at 11:58am
Sharon Conway: I love Middle Eastern Fragrances. I am looking for the perfect vanilla perfume to layer with ME perfumes that need just another layer to either soften or enhance their notes. I currently use a cheap perfume named “Soft” by Al-Rehab. January 30, 2024 at 3:23am
Aurora: Hi Sharon, Outremer Vanille would admirably serves your purpose, it is straight up vanilla, sweet but not sickly and very affordable. It is not available everywhere but if you are in the US I believe it can be found at Anthropologie US stores, using a middle Eastern perfume like you’re doing is a very good idea, Al Haramain is also a good brand. January 30, 2024 at 2:31pm
Lynley: It may seem pretty low-brow to match with middle eastern scents but my step-daughter wears Billy Eilish and it’s totally vanilla but also not bad. Most celebuscents make me run for the hills but I find this one quite pleasant. February 14, 2024 at 3:49pm
Lotte: Hello everybody, so long story short I found a rare vintage fragrance for sale that is all about Opoponax resins. Not being able to smell it beforehand, I am so torn. Is it going to match my taste? I love warm, ambery fragrances except I fully hate those that remind me of church incense. Anybody has an idea of how and what does Opoponax (also known as Sweet Myrrh) smell like? January 30, 2024 at 7:12am
[email protected]: Opoponax does not smell like church incense or even myrrh. I find it kind of warm and powdery and I love it in perfumes. But why don’t you tell us the name of the perfume in question in case some of us have smelled it. January 30, 2024 at 11:28am
Lotte: Thank you Nina, this is helpful. I might want to try it, then. The perfume is Prada no. 8, Opoponax January 31, 2024 at 5:32am
Nina Z: Well it just so happens that I own this and like it very much. I would describe it as cozy and comforting, with a slightly citrusy edge to it. Maybe a little simplistic? It doesn’t knock my socks off like the Benzoin or Oeillet but it’s very wearable. And it is made with very high quality ingredients.
I would not call this vintage, however. It is from this century, but it is discontinued.
Hope this helps. January 31, 2024 at 10:56am
Lotte: I can’t believe I was this lucky. Thank you for sharing your thoughts about this very perfume. By the way, do you know why were they all discontinued, the perfumes in this line altogether? January 31, 2024 at 12:36pm
Lotte: I’m curious, is the citrusy edge only there in the opening? Or does it linger on? January 31, 2024 at 12:46pm
Nina Z: I don’t know why the line was discontinued, but I do know that the perfumer was given free reign by Prada herself to use whatever expensive ingredients she desired, which is why their quality is so high. (I really love several from this line.) One can only assume that the perfumes (which come in extrait only) did not sell well or were losing money. Or perhaps they needed to be reformulated to meet the latest IFRA restrictions and that would have compromised them. Just speculating.
Opoponax has a lot of bergamot in it (that’s the citrus) and it does linger quite a while, but it’s not part of the drydown, of course. January 31, 2024 at 12:58pm
Lotte: I just ordered a bottle because I am now convinced. Thank you, once again. It’s going to be an interesting one, no matter the outcome (though simple/simplistic, I think I can appreciate the wearability) January 31, 2024 at 4:04pm
Lotte: Also, what are your favorite “lunar” scents? Fragrances that remind you of the moon? January 30, 2024 at 7:16am
Lynley: Armani Privé Pierre de Lune January 30, 2024 at 8:54am
Lotte: Lovely notes, haven’t tried it yet! Thank you Lynley January 31, 2024 at 6:25am
Sebastian: “Frosted Moon” (Cloon Keen Atelier). It’s like the silvery light of the full moon diffusing through the fog in the small hours of the morning. Or do you know August Malmström’s painting “Dancing Fairies”? That’s what it reminds me of. February 1, 2024 at 2:29am
Lotte: I am very intrigued. A mesmerizing painting you chose, I mean: if the perfume does just the same thing to the senses, my goodness do I need to try it February 2, 2024 at 5:24pm
Jessica: Hi! I’m a beginner fragrance lover. I’m always drawn to jamsine or vanilla in fragrances. I love Diptyque eau duelle edp. I’ve recently got a sample of Herod from parfums de marly, and I love it. But, I want to try a rose fragrance, and I don’t know where to start. I’ve tried Diptyque eau rose edp, and I really like it. Do you have any rose recommendations? i like tobacco, and lactonic as well, do you have recommendations for either of those as well? I want to order samples, but not sure where, I live in the U S.
Thank you! January 30, 2024 at 9:18am
Lynley: You can order samples at places like Luckscent or decants at Surrender to Chance. Other perfume stores often have sample packs if you do a bit of a Google search. They often curate packs too into categories like you mentioned so you can discover fragrances you wouldn’t normally come across. Almost all places I’ve ordered from are in the US so that shouldn’t be a problem for you January 30, 2024 at 1:15pm
Jessica Anderson: Thank you!! February 4, 2024 at 9:03am
Aurora: Hi Jessica: To explore rose you could go go Les Parfums de Rosine website, they specialize in rose perfumes and you can buy their discovery set, quite affordable I seem to remember. February 2, 2024 at 6:21am
Kristin: I’m looking for a perfume that smells just like Dove spray deodorant in Rose Petal. It’s such a beautiful smell. If someone who has smelled it can help me out I would be very appreciative! I would describe it as a clean, “spa-like” rose with no other florals (to my nose). Clean fresh rose.
I would also love a suggestion for a fragrance like PdM Althair but with better projection. January 30, 2024 at 7:46pm
Alityke: Possibly Paul Smith Rose. Created using Headspace technology. Apparently discontinued but still easy to find & reasonably priced February 2, 2024 at 4:20am
Kristin: I will check this out..thank you so much! February 5, 2024 at 11:33am
Nikos: Hello to everyone out there. I would like to ask if someone owns Santa Maria Novella’s Marescialla to give a brief and accurate if possible description here and maybe perfumes that are similar. Please try not me poetic. I want realism! 😉
I’m trying to get a sample of it but it’s impossible (not even the official site was willing to send me one although I did make a purchase of another fragrance) and I’m at this age that a blind buy is simply a NO for me. Thank you and take care. January 31, 2024 at 2:33am
Sebastian: It smells of recently polished old furniture, dried flowers, and spices. A bit of sweetness in the drydown and slightly annoying musk. February 1, 2024 at 5:49pm
Nikos: You had me with your description right up to the slightly annoying musk. It kind of reminds me of Relique d’amour though I don’t find the musk annoying there. Thank you February 2, 2024 at 1:14am
Anu: Hi Nikos,
I have not had the pleasure of smelling Marescialla but I found this review by Claire from takeonethingoff.com very interesting! link below
https://takeonethingoff.com/blog/2023/07/28/marescialla-by-santa-maria-novella-mad-bad-and-dangerous-to-know/ February 4, 2024 at 8:10pm
Nikos: Indeed it’s an interesting review thank you for sharing. I think I asked a silly question in the first place. Unless you try something for yourself you can’t be really sure. February 5, 2024 at 5:07am
Arthur: Hello everyone! I’m looking for mint heavy perfumes and I already own Herba Fresca from Guerlain and Menta y Menta from Miller et Bertaux. The closer to fresh crushed mint leaves, the better! January 31, 2024 at 4:23pm
Neva: Hi Arthur! Maybe you could try Heeley’s Menthe Fraiche? If you like peppermint with rose, my favourite fresh uplifting perfume in the Summer is Etat Libre d’Orange You or Someone Like You. February 1, 2024 at 7:52am
Ariadne: Hello everyone! Mimosa. Can you suggest me a perfume that resembles the real green powdery with an inch of almost almond like smell of Mimosa in march? I do not like that soft- make up kind of smell. Looking for something green, white and yellow, not yellow and lilac, if you get me. Mimosa by Fragonard is too makeupish, I like the Perris Mimosa Tanneron but I am looking for something more dramatic, perhaps greener and less plane. Thank you February 1, 2024 at 8:08am
Aurora: Hi Ariadne: How about Le Couvent Maison de Parfum Mimosa? I have this one and Mimosa Tanneron, both pretty, I like and have them both. There was also l’Artisan Parfumeur Mimosa pour MOI which was supposed to be realistic, the problem is that it is discontinued. February 1, 2024 at 1:39pm
Ariadne: Thank you Aurora, I’ ll give it a try and look for a sample! February 1, 2024 at 3:26pm
Mademoiselle: Keep an eye on Pandar Parfums. Insider tip: the début collection (release date TBC) will include a crisp mimosa soliflore with galbanum in the top notes, a hint of tang, nuances of Persian rose for balance, and genuine orris in the drydown. It’s very green, like the great outdoors in early spring. February 1, 2024 at 4:21pm
Ariadne: Oh, thank you for the tip! I didn’ t know the brand. February 3, 2024 at 3:32am
Pyewacket: Hi,
I am searching for a fragrance that is sandalwood soap. i wore Samsara for years but now it is too floral on me. I have Santal 33 but it is not the style of sandalwood I am craving. Sandalwood Temple leaned into coconut territory. Santal Majuscule sadly brought on a headache. Any suggestions? Thank you in advance. Have a wonderful weekend. February 3, 2024 at 9:09am
Aurora: Hello Pyewacket: Try Diptyque Tam Dao, a classic for sandalwood, Clean Sel Santal, and Lush Shade too. February 4, 2024 at 6:21am
Nikos: Hello again. This goes to Victoria. I’ve been reading again some of your Japan themed articles and I came across one new to me that sadly, when I click the link to the full article, it won’t show
https://boisdejasmin.com/2014/10/japanese-incense-my-financial-times-magazine-column.html
If it’s possible to link it back for me or maybe just give you (with all due respect) a friendly nudge for another article on Japanese incense, Japan incense themed perfumes etc. Best wishes. February 4, 2024 at 12:51pm
Alessandra: Hello everyone!! I was wondering if you have any great suggestions about these two questa of mine: where can I find a saffron perfume that is the equivalent of the sadly discontinued ‘Safran Troublant’ by l’Artisan Parfumeur? (I do have abaccarat Rouge and love it, but it’s a different thing; and Matière Première’s Crystal Saffron, even though it’s great, it is heavier); and where can I find a lily that is close to another sadly discontinued gem, Shanghai Lily? Many thanks in advance, lovely community! Alessandra 😘 February 5, 2024 at 12:07pm
Aurora: Hello Alessandra:. I never tried Safran Troublant alas, but I can recommend my favorite with this note, it is Hermès Eau de Néroli Doré and might suit you as it is very airy but lasts well on my skin. February 6, 2024 at 9:43am
Alessandra: Thanks Aurora! I will look for this!! February 6, 2024 at 1:22pm
Alexandra: If you had one perfume shop to visit in London that is not a department store, what would it be? I tend to like linear fragrances that are easy to wear. February 21, 2024 at 11:12am
Caroline Depuydt: Hi all,
I’m 42 and have not worn perfume for ages. I’m busy exploring frangrance after fragrance but the only two that speak to me are the ones I wore when I was 16 years old..: White Musk from the Body Shop, and CK be.
I still really like White Musk for a wintery evening, and I still love CK be, but it’s perhaps not suited for every occasion as it is unisex, verging on masculine.
Off all the fragrances I tried in recent weeks, I only liked Channel’s Chance eau fraîche, but only the opening smell.
Can’t stand Channel N° 5, am not into vanilla or rose or overly sweet or powdery stuff.
I guess I’m looking for something that is feminine without being either mature/classic or girly/overly sweet. Something that has a bit of freshness but that is still sensual. Something that is feminine but still has personality (and not in a heavy patchouli type of way).
I’m at a loss on how to proceed. Can’t really go back to the fragrance shop cause I must have smelled them all by now and have taken home many samples.
Your advice is much appreciated!
Greetings from Brussels, Belgium February 25, 2024 at 7:46pm
Alityke: I’m sure there are more than one outlet in Brussels, could you try a perfume boutique?
Failing that most niche houses do Discovery sample sets online, usually for a smallish sum. Then read, read & read all you can about the line to check if you think you would like the aesthetic.
I found this re niche perfumeries in Brussels too https://www.smellstories.be/en/blogs/blog/where-can-you-find-het-best-indie-and-niche-perfum/ February 26, 2024 at 4:58am
Alexandra: I wonder if you might like Chanel’s Paris-Edimbourg, which is a bracing and refreshing “gin and tonic meets forest trees” scent. It should be available at the Chanel boutique (it is less often found at department stores). Bonne chance! February 26, 2024 at 3:10pm