Packing a suitcase for a trip is an opportunity to distill the very essence of who you are — or who you want to be — into one container. With what you pull out of the suitcase when you arrive, whether it's sleek urban clothing or a crisply pressed suit (with travel iron), you tell the world you are practical, sexy, wacky, or something different altogether. On the road, you can show yourself as the person who loves vivid colors, wears shoulder-brushing earrings, or wears a fedora, no matter the yoga pants you can't seem to get out of at home. Snuggled in the suitcase next to this painstakingly curated wardrobe is a decant of perfume. What will it be?
A few weeks ago, the stars aligned for me, and airfares, paychecks, and wanderlust converged to set me up for a trip to Paris in the beginning of April. March from Perfume Posse, one of her dear friends (who I count on being one of my dear friends soon), and I are renting an apartment near the Luxembourg Gardens. Our emails about clothes to bring, shoes to pack, perfume houses to visit, and, for me especially, places to eat, have kept my email vibrating for days.
Clips from the Louis Vuitton prêt-à-porter show have convinced me to pack some full-skirted cotton dresses to layer with sweaters and footless tights as needed, and I'll toss in a few rhinestone brooches and 1950s scarves to wear in my hair or warm my neck. I might even have the shoe angle worked out with flats and lace-up boots. But I can't decide what perfume to bring.
On one hand, something contemporary to counterbalance my vintage clothing but dramatic enough to cut through the early spring chill seems called for. Comme des Garçons + Daphne Guinness Daphne? No, too insistent. How about Shiseido Feminité du Bois or my winter favorite L'Artisan Parfumeur Havana Vanille? Nice choices, but somehow not quite right.
Then again, it will be spring! Maybe Christian Dior Diorella, Guerlain Chamade, or Ormonde Jayne Champaca would be better. Yet I suspect nothing complements the smell of diesel fumes and fresh bread or an eyeful of Haussman-era buildings better than a grand, complex vintage perfume, like Millot Crêpe de Chine or Miss Dior. Of course, I could bring a few milliliters of each of these fragrances, but I want to wear one perfume enough to associate it with the trip.
In the end, I suspect I'll bring a fragrance I love, but one that makes a perfect background scent, like Parfums DelRae Mythique. Then, I'll find a new perfume in Paris. Linking what I know will be a wonderful trip with a new fragrance is a sure-fire way to call up memories when I return home. But that opens up a whole new challenge: what perfume to buy?
How about you? How do you decide what perfume to bring with you when you travel? When you're in Paris, where do you like to go?
Note: image is Paris Old Metro Signboard by pedrosimoes7 at flickr; some rights reserved.
Oh great journey for you, Angela! Paris in sping is gorgious, the smells are fantastic. Though Paris is expensive as hell, you can finde nearly any place good food as long as you keep away from the tourist trapes.
I would visit the L’Artisan Boutique next to the Louvre entrance.
Guerlain of course.
And I would take a scent with me that is rather easy, so that I can discover something new. Niche of course – you are NST!
Taking a scent that is, as you say, “easy” is just what I was thinking, too. That way, I can buy something new and have it to associate with the trip. Of course, today I’m wearing Bandit and thinking maybe that would be a good one to wear, but Mythique keeps coming back as the winner.
🙂 🙂
That’s double smiles, because a) I like the idea of wearing something easy, and b) Bandit is on your “easy” list. 😉
Bandit is a good one, for sure. I love the green, and I love the leather.
Angela, I love reading your description of clothes and perfume. I think you once said that your basic wardrobe wouldn’t be full of the predictable but rather a wealth of vintage sun dresses, dressing gowns, and enough ball gowns to last you a season in Monte Carlo. Loved that one. I also like your take on the relationship between fashion and fragrance and how the right (or wrong) perfume choice change the very air around you and remain an integral part of your memories of a time, a place, a special dress or event. I know you are working on another book right now, but I would love to read Angela’s Guide to Fashion with information about cut, material, style, what to look for in a new or vintage garment and how to best accessories such item. Include perfume recommendations with history, photographs, what to look for in vintage fragrances, and maybe a few how to projects like simple scarves, beaded items, and “upcycled” clothing and accessories . Mix it up with your personal verve and you will have a best seller on your hands.
You are so nice to say so! But I think some people find my style kind of alarming. I have one friend who passes along veiled wardrobe warnings (“Don’t get too dressed up–I’ll be wearing jeans”) because I think she’s tired of seeing me show up in some vintage get up.
Still, I have a lot of opinions on the subject, you’re right!
oh God!!!! envy envy envy envy…..ok, I’m over it now….
the first things I thought were Chamade and Mythique ( I know you purchased the latter recently) Paris in April? Perfect choices–and then you mentioned them too (I feel so validated!) Ohmigosh—I have a package to send you—I’d better do it today or it’ll be sitting in the PO forever!!! Gotta dash!
We’re thinking alike! Chamade and Mythique seem so right somehow to take. Then the big question becomes what to buy.
A package for me? I think we’re all caught up!
Daisy, you and I will go to Paris later this year – get your credit cards ready! I like Paris in the fall. Great choices of fragrance, but I don’t know that I would pack more than the decants of Amouage Epic and Lyric and the travel size Shalimar parfum that live in my purse. I would, however, pack a long shopping list. It has been a while, but the last time I was there my favourite place to eat was downstairs to the open market that assembled on my street. I filled my string bag with cheese, bread, amazing fruit perfectly fresh from the orchards, a few veggies (miniature perfections), drinks for the day, etc. The market appeared and then disappeared in about 1.5 – 2 hours, so you had to get down there early, but it was my favourite way to eat. Since you will be in an apartment I’m sure there will be one close to you. Yum. And fresh flowers for my room everyday. And I think your wardrobe choices are great. Love the footless tights, very nice with a pair of mid-heeled Mary Janes. I have a pair of Dansko MJ’s with a 3″ heel and they are very comfy for walking and I wear them to work (retail) often. Of course, I would only pack a handful of black and grey things and buy stuff there, too.
Oh – and John Fluevog makes some really great shoes that are very comfortable for walking miles in, too. I like the Minis line.
http://www.fluevog.com/
I love Fluevog shoes! I’ll definitely check out the minis line, thanks.
Julia, you have made me insanely happy! I am, shall we say, fashion-challenged and wouldn’t know a Fluevog from a 70’s Famolare! But I recently needed a character in a story I wrote to go shopping and after some research, that’s where she went! Thanks!
We’re such helpful folk here!
Thank you, rappleyea! I would love to read the story. Which shoes did she buy? I have a pair of boots, but I want a shoe for work.
I’m a big fan of farmers markets, too! Eating will be half the fun of being there, I think. Just the cheese alone is pretty exciting.
My daughter (step-daughter), la jeune cuisiniere, will be in Europe this summer studying cheese making in England, France, and Italy (Calabra). Sadly for me, hard, aged cheeses and yoghurt are no longer part of my diet because they induce migraines. Fresh farmer’s or pot cheese and Buffalo Mozzarella are great, but rather pale in comparison to a great brie, Camembert, Gorgonzola or Stilton. Le sigh….
Oh, too bad! Migraines can be so horrible, and it seems like so much can trigger one. I’m glad perfume doesn’t for you.
I can’t really suggest anything – my palate isn’t nearly as advanced as yours. I’m just posting to let you know how jealous I am.
I have been burning up with jealousy every time I’ve heard the word Paris for years now, so I know just how you feel!
So jealous, you lucky girl!
Call me crazy, but I wouldn’t pack any perfume. That’s like bringing a snack to a buffet! Whatever you buy in Paris is what you’ll forever associate with your trip. Besides, more room in your luggage to bring perfume home!
I see your point about not packing any perfume, but what if I don’t find a perfume to buy for a while? I’d be scentless! Of course, I could cruise a few testers…
Envy!!! 😀
I know what I would bring if I was going to paris for some time… well, a big empty space for new perfumes to fill!
..and something light and comforting that would not interfere too much (or at least would layer well) with the new perfumes I would be testing: my travel spray of beyond love because it is light, green and springy but also warm and sexy, a sample of corso como 10 because sandalwood goes well with most things I like, and maybe a sample of amaranthine for a stroll in those darker and damp ruelles… I know my choices probably won’t work for you, but with all those new ‘fumes to test you won’t miss your favorites, I am sure!!!
Really, I like your suggestions a lot! I wear 10 Corso Como often and am enjoying my little spray sample of Amaranthine, although I think more of summer with it. I have yet to try Beyond Love, but it’s on the list!
Angela – that is so exciting that you are going to Paris! Since I was a young woman, I used to make fantasy pack-lists for trips to different places around the globe, so this is fun! Definitely YES for Chamade and the Mythique. Chamade in spring – what could be more appropriate! But then, I think of something really unique and darker for evening weather, or cool wet moody days brooding over cafe au lait in the morning while you are adjusting your plans for the day… if it were me, I’d pick Sonoma Scent Studio Tabac Aurea – take something fantastique from the US with you to Paris – something fab that no one else has smelled. But then agian, I”d probably just end up wearing fragrances/samples that I’d pick up over there.
When I travel, I pack a bunch of small 1 ml vials into a small zip lock that goes into my larger zip lock of carry on stuff – it is easy to take a small variety of fragrances that way, and regardless of the season, always one cologne style with me to help freshen up, n’est ce pas? And a few dabs of No 5 body cream in a very small pot for a great pick me up if my luggage gets lost – nothing gets your head together faster than a dose of No 5. But then again, I am thinking Bel Respiro would be a great & very appropriate fragrance to douse when you first get there in the am to freshen up after the long plane ride!! BR has that dazzling galbanum white flowers opening that is so beautiful and fresh and then the clean drydown that would be good for the morning after!!
Good luck! I am sure no matter what you pick out to take, you will find something even more amazing to prance around in while you are there!!
Ooh, I didn’t even think of Bel Respiro! Of course, I don’t have any, so I won’t be taking that. Speaking of tobacco, I do have a sample of the new Guerlain Tonka from which I get a definite tobacco hit. That could be a good one to bring (or maybe buy).
Ah, well, you will have to put it #1 on your list to smell at the Chanel boutique!
Yes!
Angela, that sounds so exciting and wonderful! If your gut is telling you Mythique and Chamade, go with those … just think, you will be smelling Chamade in its “native air”. Best wishes for fantastic vintage fashion finds, and buy yourself a FB of something fabulous. I hope we get some “bulletins from our overseas correspondent”!
Thanks for the wishes! I’m bringing my laptop and plan on documenting my perfume-related travels for sure.
Oohhhh, très très jaloux! But I am so happy for all three of you. Last time I was in Paris was June 1989. I arrived wearing Shalimar and left wearing Jicky (this was when I was 17 and my nose & sinuses still let me tolerate lavender). Back in the 90s a friend of mine went to Paris and I sent money with her so she could buy me a bottle of Cuir de Russie. I keep it in its box in the little white Chanel bag with the black cord handle and the white fabric camellia. I just watched Coco Avant Chanel last night with Audrey Tatou and I am really aching to go back to France! I would love to visit the Serge Luten shop. I think it is near the Chanel shop near the Ritz?
Also – not sure how many parfumeries there are in Paris proper? Aren’t most of them in Grasse or Eze? I remember going to Galimard and getting all kinds of .5 oz bottles of fragrance knockoffs of Chanel No. 5, Opium, Miss Dior, etc etc for my family. I would love to know if there are any new(er) independent (aka very niche) fragrance shops around. I can’t wait to hear back from you about your trip! Please do post a summary of your experiences.
Yes! Please blog! would love to hear about your trip!
I will, thanks!
I think it’s more the shops than the actual perfumeries that are in Paris, but there are lots of them.
In French, the word ‘parfumerie’ means ‘perfume shop’, not the place where perfumes are made, which would be ‘fabrique (or usine) de parfums’.
Thanks for the clarification!
I am definitely planning on the Chanel boutique and Serge. I’m considering Bois des Iles or Cuir de Russie parfum as my Paris perfume splurge. Not sure yet…
And I’m definitely renting the Chanel movie ASAP.
Oh, fabulous for you, Angela! And love the idea of Crepe de Chine….or anything in Paris, really. I haven’t been in way too long. You MUST blog on your trip!
It’s been way too long for me, too. I plan on sending lots of updates to NST for sure.
For many years I went to Paris for my birthday April 1. My Father’s family came from Paris and it is in my blood..My favorite city. Spring in Paris is wonderful..I love the Louvre..and of course all of the boutiques and perfumeries….Bring really comfortable shoes…you will walk miles…Enjoy a street side cafe au lait and people watch..you will clear your nose..
Don’t take any fragrance…leave room to bring back stuff…I travel with very few clothes and bring 1 or 2 extra suitcases for purchases of linens, clothes, etc…Take a train to Grasse and see the Perfume Museum..Really enjoy…
Great advice! Really, I only plan to take a 5-ml decant to get me through until I buy something new to wear. My budget isn’t up to much more shopping, other than a few Bourjois lipsticks and some Dim tights.
The first scent I thought of is AG Ninfeo Mio. I got my sample last week and found it to be “spring in a bottle”. It’s green, bright, cheerful. I’d wear it on the plane because it’s such a pick-me-up. My practical side says you should buy something that you can’t buy in the U.S. My romantic side says whatever smells best in its “native air” (to quote Dzingnut) is the one to buy. Like everyone else I envy your trip and also look forward to hearing about it when you get back.
I know what you mean about the choice between what I can’t get easily here, and what will really seal in the memory, whether I can get it here or not.
I haven’t tried the new Goutal yet. I will, though!
Congratulations, Angela! I know how you feel…after not going anywhere interesting for the last several years, I’m going to Sweden in June, and the thought of this trip has brought a constant, happy buzz to my days, even though it’s still months away. I feel like I have a swarm of honey bees in my head.
I’m casting my vote for Mythique, for its low-key quality. More than anything, I think you’ll want to be drinking in the fabulous scents (sounds and sights) of Paris itself. Bon Voyage!!
I’m having a horrible time focusing on work when visions of patisserie vitrines and the Eiffel Tower keep floating through my head. Sweden sounds terrific!
Sweden IS terrific, and so’s the rest of Scandinavia. But I’ve been there much more recently than I have France, so I look forward to enjoying your Paris trip vicariously.
Thank you! I hope I won’t disappoint.
I would go to Paris (a dream!) with no scent, just to free up real estate for testing!
On my recent trip to Oaxaca (a place I used to go often, but had not been for over ten years) I took 2 recent decants…SMN Nostalgia (a fail in the dry season heat) and Bois 1920 Vetiver Ambrato (a big hit with everyone).
Have a great trip,
Oaxaca sounds so nice, especially with all the grey, chilly weather we’ve had here. Nice choice of fragrance to bring, too.
I tend to travel with a small bottle of Clarins Eau Dynamisante because it’s a little on the refreshing side but has some spicy oomph to it, and if something happens to the bottle in transit I won’t be devastated. Have fun on your trip!
Sound logic, great scent.
That sounds good. So, you bring the same scent to all your vacations? Smelling it must bring back a lot of wonderful memories!
Angela, I’m looking into my Magic 8 Ball for you (wait, that was dumb, all it said was “It is decidedly so”)…okay, my crystal ball for you, and I can tell you from personal experience you can curate your dang head off, but what will absolutely happen is that the perfume you buy in Paris will become the stamp of the trip, not the “greatest hits” collection you smuggled in.
I’ve often used impending trips to justify perfume purchases, only to abandon the lovingly-chosen fume at the first niff of “native bottles”. But as you mentioned, you will need some comforting Angela-smell to tide you over on the plane and that first morning, so I’d say to go with your “me-est” scent as you traverse the unfamiliar.
I’ve been traveling with teeny amounts of Miller Harris Fleur Oriental and Bruno Acampora Musc. Ooh! And when in Paris, check out the new Miller Harris Un Petit Rien, (L’Air de Rien’s little sis) available only in France and Britain. It is decidedly so.
Yes, yes, Un Petit Rien! Great advice, and a must smell. Plus, I just got an email from PG that they have two new limited scents, and I want to smell those.
I know you’re right, and my plan is to buy something in Paris and where it every day so I connect it with my time there. But that puts on extra pressure!
I went on a perfume-macaron Paris trip last fall – amazing! Aside from the patisseries (Laduree, Fauchon, Pierre Herme, and Le Notre) and the perfume boutiques (SL, Nicolai, Guerlain, Frederic Malle, Caron) I had two wonderful experiences at:
La Charlotte on Ile St Louis – wonderful hot chocolate in a witch’s hut chock full of curiosities (24 Rue Saint Louis) and
Le Cristal de Sel – lovely restaurant with the most attentive staff and food prepared with care and gusto. In the 15th (13 rue Mademoiselle).
As for deciding: bring sample sizes of a variety! You never know what the weather will do. I just went to Istanbul, and it felt perfect to wear Amouage Jubilation XXV in the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sofia!
Thanks for the recommendations! Cristal de sel sounds fantastic, and a “witch’s hut” full of anything is something I must experience (love that expression).
Perfect timing! I have the exact same thoughts on the brain… Having left Portland, OR, 6 weeks ago to come and finish my French studies here in Neuchatel, Switzerland. I will be in Paris at the same time as you, since we have the days off from school around Easter. For this trip, I am thinking about Versailles, Montmartre, and L’Ile de la Cite. I am thinking about buying Jardins de Bagatelle while I am there, and I need to stop at Hermes and L’Artisan Parfumeur. Do you have more recommendations for boutiques to visit?
What a coincidence! Keep your eyes open for us. (Or maybe keep your nose open….) I hear the Guerlain mothership, Salons du Shiseido, PdN, Colette, and IUNX are great. I know there are more.
Me? I’m looking forward to your cooking. And Sancerre. Actually, any food that I don’t have to prepare myself. Bonus if it’s not an internal organ or raw meat.
Annick Goutal Mandragore is my Paris scent already, for no good reason than I bought it there one desperately cold day right after it came out. I have a mini splash and that’s likely all I’ll bring, unless I also bring my mini vintage of YSL Paris, which is so cliche I’m tempted, but maybe you’d lock me out of the apt.
Mandragore! I’d forgotten you already have your Paris scent. And don’t talk to me about Paris cliches–the last time I went I had lunch at the Jules Verne on the Eiffel Tower.
We’re going to have a fabulous time. Look at all the great recommendations we already have.
Looking so much forward to seeing you three ladies! Angela, I’d go with something unobtrusive (Mythique sounds right) as you’ll be testing a lot of things in their native environment. Bring a tiny decant of a back-up in case Mythique doesn’t strike the right note. Chamade is good.
Right now in Paris the weather is mild and springlike so I’d go for green florals (doing N°19 today), but there’s no telling what it’s going to be like by the time you get here. Packing rule N°1: lots of light layers.
As for Paris addresses, I already forwarded the link to March: I mapped out a couple of walks on Grain de Musc, here they are (if I may be so bold):
http://graindemusc.blogspot.com/2009/07/paris-perfume-pilgrimage-part-ii-left.html
http://graindemusc.blogspot.com/2009/07/paris-perfume-pilgrimage-part-i-right.html
A few addresses are missing, like the L’Artisan flagship store on the rue de l’Amiral de Coligny near the Louvre (métro Louvre-Rivoli, going towards the Seine).
would you mind if I copied these? Also, I think there should be a weather application that suggests perfume for the day, “today is mild and spring-like, Chanel 19 should balance well.”
Hey, that’s cool, Kari!
I’m sure she’d be happy for you to dig into the Paris Perfume Pilgimages. They’re on the Grain de Musc site, too, if I remember right.
I love your weather/perfume idea. That’s the kind of weather report I can get behind.
You’re hired as my meteorologist, Kari.
D, I love these links! Just reading them will keep my Paris high at a fever pitch before I even get on the plane. I hope the city stays green and springlike. Mythique is sounding more and more perfect.
I’m also really looking forward to seeing you.
Well I’ll be doing a bit of the Right Bank with you ladies, I think: starting with Serge Lutens, on to Penhaligon’s, Colette, Chanel, IUNX and if my schedule allows, a hop on the metro to Guerlain…
Excellent!
You beat me to it, D.! I was going to recommend your posts on Paris.
How exciting for you! I was actually hoping to get to Paris this spring myself, but it looks like I may postpone my trip until fall. So yes, count me in as jealous too!!
I travel with AG Eau d’Hadrien a lot because it works for me in all weather and doesn’t get in people’s space. I adore Daphne, but I found it didn’t travel all that well because, like you said, it’s a bit too insistent in that way.
I say don’t take anything and find something totally new when you arrive!
The next time you go, you can tell me about it and *I’ll* be jealous.
Eau d’Hadrien would be a good choice in so many situations.
tsne-tsne-tsne
Angela!
you do not bring perfume to Paris! You bring perfume BACK FROM Paris!
You bring a list of the must have(s), you buy there, wear there and those scents will forever bring you right back to spring in Paris. (plus if you wear them a fey times in Paris before coming back you are not going through customs with a “new” bottle-especially if you happen to loose the box)
My sad pocketbook says only one bottle purchase, so it’s going to be so, so hard to make a choice!
I really hope the exchange rate is reasonable for you.
I think it’s better than it has been, but the last time I went, a long time ago, 98 cents bought a euro. The good old days.
So very jealous. I haven’t been to Paris since acquiring this fragrance habit. Can’t wait to hear about the trip when you get back!
Another vote for a small decant of the Mythique. I think it’s perfect: an American niche fragrance (and I’ve always felt that Delrae has a lovely French vibe). Go with something American and come back with something French.
And I do think that you should bring a fragrance or two with you. That way, you won’t feel pressure to buy a fragrance right away.
Mythique is coming in as the winner.
I love your gravatar! Poor kitty.
A late thanks for your compliment. I can laugh about the photo now, but my poor little fellow definitely wasn’t happy then. At the time, this was the least undignified solution (it sure beat the plastic lampshade that it replaced).
As long as he’s healthy now, that’s what counts.
Ha! My Kitty has the same outfit.
So undignified for a cat! Mae West (my cat) would let me know in no uncertain terms it wasn’t acceptable.
I was frightened in childhood by my mother’s story of breaking a bottle of Tabu in her suitcase and never being able to stand it again, so I travel with Rive Gauche in the metal can.
Chamade sounds wonderful.
Don’t miss the Musée Cluny.
Wow. A suitcase soaked with Tabu is, I think, one of Dante’s levels of Inferno.
How exciting for you, Angela! I agree with those that say you should go with your gut – Mythique and Chamade should be perfect. I like to pack little decants in an Altoids mint tin in my suitcase – feels so secure!
I’ve been to France twice, but never to Paris. I’m not a city girl, but may need to make an exception someday for Paris! Can’t wait to hear your reports. Bon voyage!!!
The Altoids can sounds so satisfying. You could click open the box, or hear them roll around a little in there.
Altoids tin! What a great idea – I’d never thought of that.
Always have empty ones banging around the house, too.
I know. I can’t throw them away, I keep thinking they must be good for something.
Yep, I save ’em now for mailing (or packing!) samples and small decants. Especially good for protecting the glass ones, with a little piece of cloth or tissue for cushioning.
Ohmigosh—what a fabulous idea! and goodness knows I’m an altoid addict of the first order….got a half a tin sitting right here by the computer. ….and some on my night stand….and some on the bead desk…..and some in the knickknack drawer in the kitchen….and some in my car (actually there’s a box with 6 tins under my seat–emergency stash) 😉
Nngh…oh, my. April in Paris. And with the fabulous March and her no doubt equally fabulous friend. I could not be more jealous. And I look forward to turning deep green while reading your reports.
I think Katie Puckrik has it right up there–you want a simple baseline scent (Mythique would be my pick, too, though 10 Corso Como is also great) for comfort and ease and then depend on testers and purchases and samples for the rest!
Mythique is the winner! I do like it so much, anyway. We’ll spritz from a tester of something fancy and think of you!
Angela, I am here in California, and I am thinking green, green, green lately, too, at least in fragrances.
Chamade…definitely, as you make your entrance into the flagship store. I almost cried when I made my “pilgrimage” to it a few summers ago.
For Chanel, why not take a decant of Cristalle? It’s easy to wear, effortless, and classic.
But, no matter your decision on perfumes to take, you will make the right ones.
Bon voyage!
Hugs!
Thank you! I might get teary-eyed, too. (Maybe I’d better remember to pack a handkerchief.) Cristalle does smell like Paris in the spring, at least conceptually, to me.
I was in Paris last Nov. and took an sample assortment of all types of perfumes thinking that I might want to wear a different for each day and/or mood. And you know what? It turned out that all I wanted to wear was either a much-loved old standby (Hermes Caleche) or an undemanding (FK Aqua Universalis) perfume. I guess my other senses were so stimulated by being there that my nose was firmly in “anti-stimulation mode”. Weird!
Yet another reason to go for the understated, yet sexy and gently green, Mythique!
I do love Caleche. I don’t wear it nearly enough–thanks for the reminder.
Oh, I understand the anti-stimulation mode! Immersion in art galleries or museums– or architectural tours– or scenic tours of natural wonders– or simply superb dining can overwhelm my brain and senses to the point where I have to “time out” by sitting in a cafe or tearoom and gaze happily into space.
It truly can be exhausting–in the best way, of course. I’m ready for a little of that kind of shake-up in my life.
Angela, take every good wish with you, and enjoy every minute! (I know you will, no worries on that account.)
The last time I went somewhere overseas, it was pre-perfume interest. I think all I had with me was The Healing Garden In Bloom (very light florals, very cheap stuff), and it didn’t really fit the weather, so I don’t connect it with that holiday, which is a shame because it was such a lovely trip. (Aus-NZ-back home via Hawaii)
On the other hand, I was sensitive to the smells around me – NZ really does smell very rocks-and-grass, even in the winter. And Hawaii smells wonderful.
The last trip that I associate with a particular scent was a trip years (decades) ago, to Poland/Czechoslovakia/Austria. I had a tiny bottle of Xia Xi’ang, which was new. Bottle’s long gone, but rose-amber scents smell like that Poland trip.
That’s just what I’m hoping to do: find a scent to link to the trip. Thanks for your good wishes!
Your trip to Australian, NZ, and Hawaii must have been wonderful! What a lot of hours in the plane, though.
Put me on the very jealous list!! Last time I was in Paris I hadn’t developed a perfume habit- probably just as well! I don’t know enough to recommend a perfume to wear but hope you have a fantastic trip. The Marais district is great if you have time…
I’m sure I’ll be wandering the Marais at some point, if only to pop into the Picasso museum. Plus, we’ll be there on Easter Sunday, and a Jewish deli just might end up being dinner–who knows?
The you must go to L’As du Fallafel 34 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris. Fantastic food! And cheap too which is a plus in Paris.
I’ve been there before, in fact! Thanks for reminding me (I’m hungry now for falafil.)
Wow, this is like one of those polls “What would you take with you if you could only. . . .” except you really do have to choose.
Paris in the spring. . . life doesn’t get much better than that, does it?! What a wonderful adventure – enjoy!
I can’t tell you how much I’m looking forward to it!
That’s okay, Angela, because we can all-too-easily imagine. 😉
I’m so happy for you, dear woman. And yes, just a wee bit envious. It’s really a dream trip, isn’t it? We will experience it vicariously with missives from you and March and Denyse, which will be the next best thing to being there ourselves.
Mythique will be purrrrrfect.
Bon voyage!
Thank you! Too bad you won’t be with us. Maybe next time.
Yes, please. I’m serious!!! I guess I’ll have to take a number, or enter a lottery to choose the lucky winner, but that would be a dream come true, Angela. 😉
I wonder if there are flea markets in Paris that might have a few vintage bottles of Patous and Carons and Balmains and things? I know that you could sniff them out in mere seconds, given your special talents in that direction. Wouldn’t THAT be neat? To me, tucking a few of those in your luggage would be quintessentially “Angela.” And at that rate, you could afford several!
Someday we’ll have to do it.
Gosh, I didn’t even think of buying vintage fragrance in France! That would be perfect. I’ll definitely have to find a flea market!
P.S. You will be a breath of fresh air to the Parisiennes with your winsome outfits.
P.P.S. Do go to the Notre Dame just to inhale those generations and generations of incense and beautiful old wood.
I love that smell. So CdG Avignon.
Zackly.
I’m voting for Mythique because you like it, and because DelRae Roth is an American in Paris herself (at any rate, an American who divides her time between France and San Francisco). Not sure what scent I would wear in April in Paris, but I’d definitely be packing a bottle of Claritin. Chestnuts in blossom. . .
That’s right! The chestnut trees in the Luxembourg Gardens! I hope they’re blooming when I’m there (and not when you are, or at least not when you’re there minus Claritin.)
Well, you know which scent I’d cast my vote for…. 😉
Whatever you decide, you’ll smell fabulous and I hope that is only topped by the good time you’ll have.
Bon Voyage and travel safely.
Thank you! Those are wonderful wishes.
I never bring perfume with me when I go to Paris – I am there to sample and buy, normally I am covered in 10 different things at any given time!
I suspect some of that may be happening to us, too!
Taking perfume to Paris would be like taking coals to Newcaste. Still, you have to take something. I always take No 5 when I travel because it’s safe for any unpredictable situation I might find myself in. And I know I’ll still love it when I get back, no matter what gorgeous new fragrance I might buy. So Angela – will you be seeking out a fragrance unique to Paris, or grabbing something beautiful – even if it is easily avialble back home – just because it strikes you afresh in Paris? For me, I think that would be the dilemma. Anyway, all the best.
I think that’s *exactly* the dilemna. Part of me wants something exclusive to Paris, but another part of me just wants something beautiful and new to me, even if I can get it here.
I’m ‘green’ with envy—-Paris in Spring! I wish you beautiful inhalations of every intoxicating scent Paris offers you. The last time I crossed the pond was to visit England way before my perfume interests blossomed, but I remember buying duty free GA Emporio; so ‘european’ and glam! If I knew then what I know now….I do not take scent when I travel, but now I’m wanting Mythique. Big bouquets of blessings to you!
Thank you so much for your very nicely scented wishes!
Have a wonderful trip, Angela! I was in Paris in May 20 years ago and purchased Chanel No. 19. I think I need to go & spray some now… (different bottle)
You’re so lucky to have some of the old stuff! I really think No. 19 has changed. Does it always make you think of Paris now?
Lucky woman! Paris in April is Divine…and De Nicolai, and so very Serge…Now, if it were my turn to travel to Paris, I’d probably just bring a wee decant of something oh-so-easy to wear, say Eau Premiere, for those moments when I didn’t need bare skin for sniffing purposes. And hope to find so new not-available-in-the-U.S. wonder ; ) Happy Trails!
Eau Premiere is a great choice, especially given the weather. “Divine” it will definitely be!
Oooh lucky you!
I try to bring fragrances that either: a) match my moods b) my clothes or c) the weather. But I try to bring fragrances I am sure I would wear: Mimosa Marin, Vanillia, Bois Farine, etc. I RARELY try fragrances when I’m outside of my country ;). If I lived in Paris, I would hang out at the Cafe de Flore and at the Musée d’Orsay.
More and more I think I’ll bring Mythique (I just sprayed some on and do love it, and it’s so quiet) and then hunt down the new L’Artisan Tuberose Robin just posted a notice about, the new Miller Harris L’Air de rien little sister, and the two new PGs and see what shakes out. If none of those grab me, I know I can find something at PdN, or maybe one of the Serge exclusives, or or or…
Angela, I wish you a WONDERFUL trip, and also look forward very much to hearing what you decide to buy. I’m not sure I’d be up to choosing just one perfume out of the dazzling possibilities, but perhaps the challenge of choosing just one will clarify the mind.
After Zazie mentioned Beyond Love, I got out my new sample, and totally agree with her (and LT) re how wonderful it is. But I am also DYING to see what Duchaufour has done with tuberose for L’Artisan. I hope you will sniff both and let us know how they compare! (I was going to suggest a tuberose smack-down, but that doesn’t sound very Parisian! LOL)
Wow, a tuberose smack down could get really violent! You know I’m on the Duchafour Tuberose like a duck on a June bug, and I’ll report back right away.
Sorry to rain on your tuberose parade, ladies, but Nuit de Tubéreuse won’t be out yet in early April… Launch is set for May.
Drat! The tuberose parade is drenched. Oh well, there’s plenty else to smell.
Yes, testing tuberoses would have taken up a lot of nose space that you are now free devote to other wonders! 🙂
Have a nice trip!!! I just returned from Paris, after working there for almost two years..Full of perfumed temptations!!! I think you will enjoy Frederic Malle boutiques (Rue de Grenelle, Rue du Mont Thabor), Les Salons du Palais Royal for the Serge Lutens, I also like the Jo Malone boutique (Rue St Honoré) and the one from The Different Company at the Marais (Rue Ferdinand Duval). And the big department stores like Printemps, Le Bon Marché, etc are quite good also to find niche perfumes. You can find the Hermessences at the Hermés store (Rue du Faubourg St Honoré). Ah, don´t forget to taste the hot chocolat l´africain at Angelina (Rue de Rivoli) and the macarons at Pierre Hermé. I also recommend you “Le comptoir duPantheon”, near Luxembourg gardens (Rue Soufflot), just by the Pantheon. It´s not really a turistic place, full of Parisians also, and the prices are reasonable.
Thank you for the recommendations! I’m enjoying simply reading the names, visiting them will be even more fun. Le comptoir du Pantheon sounds like a great place for lunch.
Thank you for sharing!
Dear Angela,
I will also be in Paris early April (Easter week-end) so if the dates coincide and you’d fancy the company of a native of the City of Lights/Frags for a couple of hours, let me know, I’d be delighted!
Best wishes,
Laura
What a generous offer! I’ll check with my travel mates and get back to you.
P.S. I can already recommend the Divine shop on rue Scribe, a few numbers down from the Fragonard Museum of Perfume; one must-sniff for me this time, apart from the latest releases (mine is a curious nose), will be the limited edition Bois Naufrage by Pierre Guillaume.
The other spots I’m sure you know: Serge Lutens, Artisan Parfumeur, Maitre Parfumeur et Gantier, Pierre Montale, Parfums de Rosine… Try your luck a the Marais shop of Etat Libre d’Orange: it was closed last time I was there… and also in the Marais is the latest branch of Parfums de Nicolai, definitely one of the best fragrance houses. I was not too taken by the Maison Francis Kurkdjian experience, but do give it a go.
Did I forget anyone? ^_^
I really do want to sniff the Bois Naufrage and the new gardenia scent, and I’m interested in smelling the new L’Etat Libre scent based on Tilda Swinton. The Kurkdjian samples I’ve smelled didn’t bowl me over, but the shop looks interesting.
Paris has been my dream destination (and number 1 on my “bucket list”) for…well, forever. I’m jealous – please blog frequently so we can enjoy your trip vicariously! As for travel – I never can decide what to pack, and usually take a bunch of samples and decants with me so I have a variety. But in your case, I’d take a few small decants of something much loved, and plan on doing pelnty of sampling and shopping while I was there. Bon voyage!
I know just how you feel about Paris. It’s been so, so long since I’ve been.
Such a timely subject, and wonderfully written, as always! I have never been to Paris, but have always dreamed of it. My husband asked me recently if I thought I could carry on for 3 days in Charleston, SC this summer. I laughed a bit and then saw that he wasn’t laughing, ah, husbands. It will be so hard to limit myself to 3 pairs of shoes, then I thought, ack, perfume! Finally decided I would take Kenzo Magnolia for day and Bronze Goddess for evening as they would both work well in the humidity.
Good luck with your decision, can’t WAIT to hear what you purchase while there! 🙂
I’ve never been to Charleston, but it’s somewhere I’d love to visit. I’m jealous! Have fun, and I’ll imagine I’m smelling Bronze Goddess in the air.
Hi Angela,
Ohh have a great time in Paris! I know you will have lots of fun, have chocolate and champagne for me. :~)
Given the time of year and wardrobe, I’d wear the original Chloe or Chanel no 22.
I’ll definitely think of you as I down a macaron or two! And, if I’m lucky, some Champagne, too.
Hi Angela, Have a great time in Paris!
Thank you so much!
No need to bring perfume to Paris! You’ll want to be scent-free to try a few new things. Otherwise, I like to bring my samples and decants when I travel. No worry about breakage.
I think 5 ml of one scent is my limit to bring–then 50 ml or 100 ml bottle to bring home!
Please let us know what you decided to bring. And what new perfume you associate with Paris after the trip! Paris is so beautiful, but it’s the perfume boutiques that get me excited about visiting. I’m dreaming of my next visit and – finally! – a fb of Iris Silver Mist!
And, when I think of my last trip to Paris, while the new Francis K boutique was great, it’s the scent of my sampled Odalisque following me as we covered my favorite Rive Droite spots that gets me. May have to get Odalisque on my next trip too…it’s radiance managed the complexity of Paris well.
Oh, I’ll let you know all right! Thanks for asking.
Still here – by the way, the saleswoman at the Lutens boutique at the Palais Royal absolutely insisted that no, Iris Silver Mist was NOT composed by Maurice Roucel. Wasn’t it composed by Roucel?? I was a little surprised. I know the others were not, but…I would have thought she would know.
I’d always heard it was Maurice Roucel, too! I’d be really surprised if it weren’t.
Just returned from a ten day trip to Tokyo. I took SMN Melograno — my staple — and CdG Avignon and layered the two. Made for a lovely fragrance when visiting local temples.