• About
  • Login to comment
    • Facebook
    • RSS
    • Twitter

Now Smell This

a blog about perfume

Menu ▼
  • Perfume Reviews
  • New Perfumes
  • Perfumers
  • Perfume Houses
  • Shop for perfume
  • Resources

Choosing a Perfume for Thanksgiving

Posted by Angela on 24 November 2008 145 Comments

Thanksgiving dinner

Thanksgiving is coming up, and you know what that means: a house full of the aromas of roasted turkey, pumpkin pie, cranberry sauce, and sweet potatoes. Maybe there will be a fire blazing in the fireplace, too, and if you're really lucky someone will mix up some Old Fashioneds before dinner while catching the last few minutes of the Detroit Lions game. What perfume goes best with this mix of family, craziness, and coma-inducing food?

Maybe it's easiest to think about what perfumes don't work well at Thanksgiving dinner. For the most part, a grand French perfume or a pungent floral will bomb, especially if your dinners, like mine, are more likely to include Chex Mix than foie gras. Smelling of Chanel No. 22 or Amouage Gold while you ladle gravy over Parker House rolls doesn't seem right.

On the other hand, spicy perfume — something with cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom, for example — could be perfect. L'Artisan Tea for Two, Donna Karan Black Cashmere or Chaos, Comme des Garçons (the original), a drop of Estée Lauder Cinnabar, or any of the spicy Serge Lutens fragrances (Arabie, Five O'Clock au Gigembre and Louve come to mind) would smell wonderful with a warm casserole of baked yams or a slice of apple pie.

Vanilla-based fragrances might work well at Thanksgiving, too, because they would go so well with sweet relishes and winter squash as well as with dessert. Plus, even family members who aren't used to fragrance will probably like vanilla. A few popular vanillas are L'Artisan Vanilia and Serge Lutens Bois Vanille, but a trip to the drugstore will turn up lots of vanilla options. A perfume with a hit of orange would complement dinner, too, and it might cut some of the heaviness of the food. Fendi Theorema is a creamy, woody orange, and Bois 1920 Sutra Ylang is a crisper, more herbal orange.

Another approach to Thanksgiving Day perfume is to choose something warm and neutral that will blend into the background but still give its wearer something beautiful and comforting to smell as an antidote to family "episodes". In this category, Serge Lutens Chêne smells deliciously like burning wood (although not much like smoke), and it would be perfect on Thanksgiving, especially when you take the dogs for a walk over leaf-strewn sidewalks late in the afternoon. Guerlain Vol de Nuit is as beautiful and appropriate as polished wood — a great choice if your dinner is likely to be served on real china. Estée Lauder Private Collection Amber Ylang Ylang is soft and vaguely sweet and would be nice to smell while sorting puzzle pieces or playing that fifth game of Clue.

I'll be wearing L'Artisan Dzing! this Thanksgiving, and chances are so will the other two grown women at dinner. We'll sniff each other's wrists to see how it differs on each of us and talk about how much we love it. I first introduced them to Dzing! five years ago when I'd put on a spritz too many to go to a benefit. I brought them both samples the next day, and now they each have their own bottles. Maybe Dzing! isn't the "book perfect" scent for Thanksgiving, but it's my tradition, and to me that's what Thanksgiving is all about.

Note: images (all cropped) are Finale Cranberry Sauce in Cobalt by cobalt123 at flickr; some rights reserved. Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy and Chorizo Stuffing by Special*Dark at flickr; some rights reserved. Chai Spiced Pumpkin Pie by QuintanaRoo at flickr; some rights reserved.

Filed Under: perfume talk

Advertisement


145 Comments

Leave a comment, or read more about commenting at Now Smell This. Here's our privacy policy, and a handy emoticon chart.

  1. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 12:40 pm

    yay! Dzing! I've had my finger hovering over the Buy button for a full bottle for weeks, and it's mine, (mine!) for the holidays. So that's my vote, too. Great post, Angela!

    Log in to Reply
  2. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 12:42 pm

    Good timing! I was just looking in the 'fume wardrobe this morning, racking my brain about what to wear…. For the past couple of years, my go-tos at holiday time have been PG's Cadjmere and SL's Chergui, although this year, I also have Amouage's Jubilation XXV Men and CdG Avignon at my disposal. So – narrowed down to 4 (or maybe 5, if we count Guerlain's Habit Rouge….) HELP! :)

    Log in to Reply
  3. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 12:52 pm

    No thanksgiving here in Italy, but I guess I can always think in advance about Christmas perfumes…

    Log in to Reply
  4. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:00 pm

    How about a sharp, fresh green to cut through all the scents?

    Log in to Reply
  5. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:03 pm

    I love Dzing and plan on doing a review of it soon. I hope you like it! It's a great scent to associate with good times.

    Log in to Reply
  6. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:05 pm

    I think I will be wearing Bvulgari Eau The Rouge.

    Log in to Reply
  7. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:06 pm

    Both Cadjmere and Chergui sound great for Thanksgiving! The incense scents are good, too, and Habit Rouge–well, if it's good enough for Keith Richards it should darn well be good enough for family and friends around the table!

    Log in to Reply
  8. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:07 pm

    And don't forget about New Year's Eve!

    Log in to Reply
  9. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:09 pm

    I thought about that–something herbal and green but not too assertive would be nice. Like maybe a good cologne like Eau de Rochas. But then it's so nice to have something that feels good next to the fire…

    Log in to Reply
  10. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:10 pm

    Great choice! (Love your handle, by the way.)

    Log in to Reply
  11. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:11 pm

    I will be smelling better than mostly what's on the table with the fantastic and oh so comforting Carnival Wax 1965. Cinnamon, cloves and vanilla. My 3 favorite spices;-) Yum! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!

    Log in to Reply
  12. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:13 pm

    But look what it DID to Keith….. Oh wait – that was the drugs…. :) Habit Rouge may have to win out. I think I need a change this year, and I'm really liking Habit these days. More than I thought I would when I first smelled it….

    Log in to Reply
  13. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:17 pm

    Are you kidding? I think it's only because of the Habit Rouge that he doesn't look worse!

    Log in to Reply
  14. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:17 pm

    I haven't tried that one yet, but it sounds marvelous and perfect for the holiday. Happy Thanksgiving to you, too!

    Log in to Reply
  15. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:25 pm

    I'll be wearing Montale's Vanille Absolu, it's got vanilla, cinnamon, clove and woods.

    Log in to Reply
  16. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:28 pm

    Hi Angela!

    Lovely ideas!

    I had this dilemma already yesterday as I headed to an early Thanksgiving function…the florals were a definite no-go (Une Rose surrounded by stuffing? Ew!) and I toyed with the idea of Guerlain Spiritueuse Double Vanille (it was definitely cold enough) but decided instead on OJ Ta'if perfume…it was perfect…a little spice, a little warmth, a very subtle rose and some candied dates…yum.

    Happy Thanksgiving!

    Pia

    Log in to Reply
  17. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:31 pm

    That sounds perfect! And really yummy, too.

    Log in to Reply
  18. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:33 pm

    Well, since every woman in my family will be wearing vast clouds of Alien and Angel, any poor perfume I wear will be instantly smothered, as it is at every other family gathering.

    I think I'll wear a few drops of Shalimar parfum, just for myself, and I'll look the other way as my relatives drop ice cubes into their glasses of Merlot. :)

    Log in to Reply
  19. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:33 pm

    Ta'if sounds very nice, and elegant even. I bet OJ Tolu would be good, too. Happy Thanksgiving! (I don't know what I'd do if I had to eat more than one Thanksgiving dinner. Buy a stomach pump, I guess.)

    Log in to Reply
  20. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:35 pm

    I can see your dinner perfectly just from the perfume descriptions and the merlot-with-ice-cube! You know, when I was writing today's post, I thought about Shalimar as an option. It has citrus and vanilla and a warmth that is so nice on a chilly November day.

    Log in to Reply
  21. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 1:51 pm

    “We're here at Tavern On The Green, where we've secretly replaced the fine merlot they USUALLY serve with a “Chien Enrage Fruite” (Mad Dog – take your pick of flavor…….) You COULD really perturb them by wearing CdG Tar, or perhaps a nice strong dose of L'air de Rien….. :)

    Log in to Reply
  22. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 2:00 pm

    I will be wearing something by L'artisan, maybe Tea for Two (great suggestion, Angela) or maybe Piment Brulant? L'Artisan's are spicy, but never cloying. They are skin scents, never too harsh, never too much. Always with a touch of deep wood, and a spicy accord. They do well at any dinner parties, at least for me.

    Log in to Reply
  23. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 2:00 pm

    Hey, great idea and good companion fragrances with the fruity mad dog. You're sounding more like Keith every minute….

    Log in to Reply
  24. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 2:09 pm

    I think I'll be double dipping this year. First for the traditional Misfit Toys Thanksgiving I think I'll wear Creed Angelique Encens, and then since I'll be going to the University of Texas/Texas A&M game later that evening, I think maybe just the teensiest bit of Lonestar Memories. What could be more perfect?

    Log in to Reply
  25. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 2:16 pm

    Wow, I have never seen ice cubes go into Merlot — that's really upscale! Usually I see ice cubes only in Gallo White Zinfandel or Almaden “Chablis” (the kind in the jug). Good times, good times!

    Log in to Reply
  26. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 2:20 pm

    I may end up at a 3-day silent meditation retreat in the wilds of central California — and you know, it's one of those new-agey, ascetic, “fragrance-free” type zones. Oh well. I do love the holiday fragrance season though, and love reading these comments. I think I need to get me some of that Montale Vanille Absolu.

    Log in to Reply
  27. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 2:24 pm

    Nothing like a little chilled merlot to really get the holiday going….

    Log in to Reply
  28. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 2:28 pm

    I forgot about Piment Brulant! That would be a really nice one, too.

    I like the L'Artisans a lot, too. It seems like they have something for every mood, and while they make a statement, it's usually not a slap-you-in-the-face type of statement.

    Log in to Reply
  29. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 2:29 pm

    Great choices! Any of the Angelique Encens that lingers would probably be really interesting with the Lonestar Memories, too.

    Log in to Reply
  30. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 2:30 pm

    Oh boy. Does that mean you'll be eating Tofurkey?

    I bet you $5 you smell a little patchouli out there, no matter what the rules say.

    Log in to Reply
  31. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 2:33 pm

    I think I will wear Caron Poivre – my list of notes doesn't include either of these, but on me it smells like clove and orange, and those scents remind me of family gatherings around the fireplace. :)

    Log in to Reply
  32. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 2:43 pm

    Poivre is a great choice! I get lots of clove in it, too. I think it would be terrific next to the fireplace, a little hot cider in hand.

    Log in to Reply
  33. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 2:53 pm

    I was thinking that about the patchouli. And I don't know if they'd actually try to serve Tofurkey, though it's a vegetarian place, yes!… lord I hope not. I saw Tofurkeys all boxed up at the Trader Joe's this weekend and they looked awful.

    Log in to Reply
  34. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 3:06 pm

    Happy Thanksgiving! Tea for Two for lunch with my cooky fam. (I would happily suck down an iced merlot, if there was a drop in sight!)- then I think I will put on some 5 o'clock around that time for dinner with my brother and sis in law (and finally get my hands on some vino!) hip hip for Thanksgiving perfumes

    Safran troublant/ Cimabue would be yummy, too…

    Log in to Reply
  35. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 3:08 pm

    I'm with you on that. I'd much rather have a good stir fry (or maybe polenta with roasted vegetables for something more seasonal) any day.

    Log in to Reply
  36. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 3:10 pm

    Sounds like a very nice smelling day! I like your suggestions, too.

    Log in to Reply
  37. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 3:19 pm

    It's one of my favorites too…..It's so comforting and warm.

    It'll go with the dessert menu perfectly. We're having my home made pecan cinnamon buns and apple cranberry dutch crumble pie. I love Thanksgiving holiday.

    Log in to Reply
  38. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 3:29 pm

    Now I'm really getting hungry!

    Log in to Reply
  39. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 3:42 pm

    The Farmacia ss. Annunziata line is pretty foody so I think I will wear their Aurora – it is really beautiful, with notes of ginger, coriander, cinnamon, pepper, patchouli, and nutmeg. Or I might just spray on some Vanilla Fields and say the heck with it.

    Log in to Reply
  40. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 3:44 pm

    Where's Demeter when you need 'em? Candied Yam, Roasted Turkey, Cranberry Delight…… I can see the offerings now!

    Log in to Reply
  41. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 3:56 pm

    Aurora sounds marvelous–and like it might go really well with Vanilla Fields, too, if a little layering, accidental or otherwise, happens.

    Log in to Reply
  42. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 3:57 pm

    Brilliant! I'm surprised they haven't thought of it.

    Log in to Reply
  43. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 4:03 pm

    Dammit, I forgot “Iced Merlot”, “Pot-Smoking Uncle”, and “Will Someone PLEASE Change That Child's Diaper!”….. Ah – the holidays!

    Log in to Reply
  44. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 4:04 pm

    Excellent post, Angela!

    I'm thinking I may wear Mitsouko parfum, Vero Profumo Onda or the body cream to POL Luctor et Emergo.

    Since Thanksgiving is a day for indulging my taste buds, why not indulge my nose by wearing all three? :):)

    Hugs and Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

    Log in to Reply
  45. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 4:14 pm

    Here's one from Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab called Drink Me

    “cherry-tart, custard, pine-apple, roast turkey, toffee, and hot buttered toast”

    Log in to Reply
  46. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 4:14 pm

    I'll either be wearing one of the following: Guerlain's Nahema (because the rich peach-rose would be good with the meal, like a nice fuity wine); Sonoma Scent Studio Rose Musc (because the rich rose will go well with food, and the heavenly labdanum will be woody wonderful with food! I think as a default that the right rose always goes well with food.); EL PC Amber Y-Y as suggested above for all the same reasons; or Baghari which smells great with almost anything. If I were to go for a “green” it would definitely be Givenchy III. I probably won't decide until right before I dress – picking out the right outfit to be great AND comfortable is just as important for this holiday!

    Log in to Reply
  47. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 4:46 pm

    I don't own either of these, sadly, but I'd go for Bois Farine or Baghari if I could. Perhaps they'd help relax my clenched jaw and frozen smile… ugh, I hate Thanksgiving. I love the merlot-on-the-rocks folks, however — toss in a few orange slices and you've got sangria!

    Log in to Reply
  48. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:16 pm

    I've worn Sacrebleu, Aqaba, Asja, and Guerlain AA Exaltant–always gotta have a spicy vibe going for holidays. Not sure about this year–maybe Coco or Shalimar in extrait form.

    Log in to Reply
  49. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:23 pm

    One holiday tradition we love to do is watch the movie “Home for the Holidays”. It's the perfect blend (for us, anyway) of dark humor and family dysfunction!

    Log in to Reply
  50. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:24 pm

    I'm thinking about wearing Five O'Clock au Gingembre or Rousse, as I gorge myself on pumpkin pie with lots of whipped cream!

    Log in to Reply
  51. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:26 pm

    ..And what about “I told you to leave the dog outside–now you clean it up”?

    Log in to Reply
  52. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:27 pm

    All three of those choices sound ideal for ANY day of the year!

    Enjoy your Thanksgiving, too!

    Log in to Reply
  53. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:28 pm

    Wow, a smorgasbord in a perfume!

    Log in to Reply
  54. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:31 pm

    Bois Farine sounds really good. I'm sorry that you don't like Thanksgiving–I think it's my favorite holiday of the year, but probably mostly because I'll be with a good, happy crowd (including excellent cooks).

    Log in to Reply
  55. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:32 pm

    Yes, lots of spices for sure! You can't lose with either one.

    Log in to Reply
  56. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:33 pm

    That is a hilarious movie, and a great tradition.

    Log in to Reply
  57. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:35 pm

    They both sound absolutely perfect. I have to say, by the end of the day I think I'll feel like I already ate Thanksgiving dinner, thanks to all this food talk.

    Log in to Reply
  58. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:47 pm

    Memory scents, indeed! I think we're hired…

    Log in to Reply
  59. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:50 pm

    I think I'll be wearing a sample of Arabie that I recently got.

    Log in to Reply
  60. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:56 pm

    Oh, brother. Thanksgiving! Wherein I, usually the cook for the last zillion years, have finally sat down at the table, reeking of turkey grease and hating everyone, only to jump up again to attend to the needs of others (well, not entirely – since everyone else avoids the kitchen, and possibly me, like the plague – I can use these little breaks to down some warm white wine or iced merlot – and advil). The heat of the oven, the smells of cooking, and the exercise of running back and forth all combine to make me think of my dearly beloved and long-missed Love's Fresh Lemon circa the 1970s, a clear, clean shot of pure lemony wondrousness which was just the ticket for cutting the grease and lifting the spirits.

    Sadly, the original Love's Fresh Lemon has gone the way of the dodo (and my youth) and I'm thinking I'd rather not waste anything nice under the circumstances. But afterwards… ah, a shower, a clean robe, my lampe berger fired up, soothing lighting and music. Probably Passage d'enfer (just scored a bottle on the 'bay). Why, at this point the holiday sounds almost tolerable!

    Log in to Reply
  61. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 5:59 pm

    Mmmm… Parker House rolls…

    Thanksgiving smells so good, why wear any perfume? I'll be adding nutmeg and allspice to the cranberry relish and sticking my nose in the saucepan.

    Log in to Reply
  62. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 6:10 pm

    Down in Australia, we don't have thanksgiving but I have no idea what I will wear as a Christmas scent. With the weather likely to be close to 100 degrees, I can't go too spicy or cloying but want something festive. Christmas here is a barbaque and a walk on the beach. Any reccomendations? I must spend Christmas in the Northern hemisphere one year as I would love to experience a white Christmas. I have NEVER seen it snow but have only ever travelled to places after it has already snowed.

    Log in to Reply
  63. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 6:27 pm

    How could I be the first to mention Ambre Narguile? This is my festive season favourite, and I've already busted it out a couple of times. I try not to wear it too often so that I can savour its specialness.

    Log in to Reply
  64. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 6:57 pm

    I live on an island off the Florida coast, and even though the weather gods have blessed us with 3 cool fronts in a row I am usually faced with a problem similar to yours. In fact, natuarally, I am drawn to orientals but living here I have never been able to pull them off. Ambre Narguille makes me absolutely sick in the heat. I usually just embrace the sexy, beachy scents. I have found a couple really great ones, Sharon Bolton's Soul and Theme Fragrance's Sarong. There's nothing wrong with a little coconut cream pie yumminess in Pilar and Lucy's Exact friction of stars…Just go with it AussieBec! Perfect scent with snow? Guerlain's SDB! Last time we had snow here was'71… I wasn't even born yet!! Doubt I'll be in snow anytime soon;-(

    Log in to Reply
  65. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 7:07 pm

    I second the Ambre Narguile, the Theorema and the Coco in extrait — the latter was my Thanksgiving scent last year and was just perfect. It was warm and delicious but stayed close to my body so I got compliments, but only when hugged, as though I were one of the platters being passed around…
    It looks like it will be a bit warmer this year, more golden October than chilly November, so I'm thinking the honey-wine of Botrytis.

    Log in to Reply
  66. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 7:49 pm

    Kayliana, Snow is unusual in FL, but it does happen.

    Last time it snowed in FL was 1989.

    Log in to Reply
  67. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 8:00 pm

    Bulgari Omnia turns nicely caramel on me, so I was thinking of wearing that. If I can keep myself out of my “early Hanukkah present” of Jo Malone's Pomegranate Noir.

    Log in to Reply
  68. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 8:26 pm

    You'll smell great!

    Log in to Reply
  69. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 8:27 pm

    So true! And yet I can't imagine skipping perfume.

    Log in to Reply
  70. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 8:30 pm

    Isn't it amazing? A person can spend two days cooking, only to have it snarfed down in 15 minutes. The post-feast relaxation with a bath and Passage d'Enfer sounds heavenly, though.

    Log in to Reply
  71. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 8:31 pm

    A, that's a challenge. Do you have a Christmas tree and all that? Maybe you could do an orange scent. Oranges always seem Christmasy to me for some reason. Or a cedar or incense.

    Log in to Reply
  72. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 8:32 pm

    You're so right! It's perfect for Thanksgiving.

    Log in to Reply
  73. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 8:34 pm

    K, thanks for the suggestions! That's one thing I love about this blog–people are always able to come up with something when I'm stumped.

    Log in to Reply
  74. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 8:36 pm

    Botrytis sounds good (and food-related, even). It reminds me that Brandy would be a good one, too.

    Log in to Reply
  75. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 8:37 pm

    Even on the coastal islands? It would be fabulous to watch it snow on the ocean.

    Log in to Reply
  76. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 8:39 pm

    Oh, Pomegranate Noir sounds really good–it would smell so good with the cranberry sauce, too. The spice in Omnia is perfect, though, too.

    Log in to Reply
  77. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 9:05 pm

    It was fun reading all the comments after your post. But I have to ask… so, when everyone fell in love with Dzing!, did you feel funny about it? Like they were glomming on to your special secret? Or were you happy to introduce them to something special they might have never run across on their own. Be honest, I won't tell. ;-P

    Log in to Reply
  78. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 9:07 pm

    PS We're going out (yay!) and I am leaning toward something snuggly — Amber Ylang (which I never would have believed) or Idole.

    Log in to Reply
  79. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 9:55 pm

    I feel like I've read this before. Have I read this before? Are have my notorious deja vu episodes extended to perfume blogs?

    Log in to Reply
  80. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 10:01 pm

    When I first fell madly in love with Dzing, I had a friend who decided she wanted to wear it, too, and–long story–I had a hard time with it and even wrote a post about it. Once the dam broke, though, I thought screw it, I'm going to introduce Dzing to everyone I know! If I can't have it to myself, then everyone can have it. Plus, these friends (sisters, actually) aren't big perfume wearers, so I feel like I've inducted them into a secret club.

    Log in to Reply
  81. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 10:03 pm

    You know, I can't say that Amber Ylang is anything wildly special, and yet that's exactly its appeal! It's so nice and comforting and lovely, and it doesn't steal the stage. Idole sounds great, too.

    Log in to Reply
  82. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 10:04 pm

    Unless you've read this very post twice, you haven't read it before. Your deja vu episodes sound very cool, though.

    Log in to Reply
  83. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 10:09 pm

    It's creepy at work!

    Log in to Reply
  84. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 10:11 pm

    Hey, maybe you're psychic?

    Log in to Reply
  85. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 10:25 pm

    No, it was in Tallahassee FL, a little inland from the coast.

    Log in to Reply
  86. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 10:30 pm

    Me either.

    Log in to Reply
  87. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 10:47 pm

    I saw that a couple of years ago and I almost bought an Imp of it just for the novelty. But I couldn't get past the idea of mixing turkey and toffee. The nausea factor won over.

    Log in to Reply
  88. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 10:56 pm

    Ice cubes into Merlot?! What are they thinking?

    Log in to Reply
  89. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 11:07 pm

    Something spicy sounds perfect, but Idole is my everyday perfume, so I just don't think that route would be special enough. Given that my Thanksgiving is a lot like Annonose's (marathon cooking, then cleaning, with a very short break for eating in between), I'm thinking I'll wear my soothing scent — CdG Kyoto. It'll probably clash horribly with the food scents, but at least it will keep me grounded.

    Log in to Reply
  90. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 11:09 pm

    Indeed, she may well be! I have noticed something very casually, mind you-I haven't done a study on it or anything- but it seems that those who love perfumes and such do appear to exhibit more psychic abilities than others- what do you all think?

    Re the Thanksgiving and other holidays, sis a vis scents- I like to wear something spicy and vanilla-y, and have lots of scented candles, incense and scented oil diffusers around the house during the holidays. Have been checking out the scents available at Pacifica, (www.pacificacandles.com) and they have been wonderful- you can layer them, too! They come in candle form, sprays and solid perfumes. Great for gift giving, too! Enjoy!

    Log in to Reply
  91. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 11:23 pm

    I think I will do something a bit different and wear one of the Patou Ma Collection fragrances. Chaldee, Divine Folie or Amour Amour would all work well I think. They all share some degree of spiciness (often carnation) and vanilla, musk, amber or opopanox in the base to round and soften the floral notes. Thanksgiving with my family is a relatively quiet affair with modern updates on traditional food from my father, who is a wonderful cook. Elegant classicism is completely in order in his house! But anything more than the tiniest trace of sillage will trigger a barrage of criticism, so only a dab is allowed. What's a family holiday without at least some grumpiness or eye-rolling?!!

    Log in to Reply
  92. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 11:24 pm

    It really does sound like a little too much.

    Log in to Reply
  93. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 11:25 pm

    I like my merlot room temperature, but hey…

    Log in to Reply
  94. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 11:26 pm

    Glad you've found a line you like!

    Log in to Reply
  95. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 11:28 pm

    Kyoto is a wonderful scent and so peaceful. Sounds good.

    Log in to Reply
  96. Anonymous says:
    24 November 2008 at 11:29 pm

    I bet Adieu Sagesse would be good, too–I'm thinking of the carnation in it. And maybe Normandie. Your Thanksgiving sounds so civilized! Nice.

    Log in to Reply
  97. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 12:44 am

    Vanille Tonka by Parfums de Nicolaï for me. Vanilla spice loveliness. This is one I always get the “you smell wonderful” comments.

    Log in to Reply
  98. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 1:34 am

    I think Ambre Narguile, Theorema, and Tea for Two are great suggestions. I might also consider Safran Troublant, Dark Amber & Ginger Lily, or L'Oiseau de Nuit. A twist to my Thanksgiving: I'm having German food. I don't think Eau de Sauerkraut sounds very good, do you? Happy Thanksgiving to Angela and all!

    Log in to Reply
  99. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 1:39 am

    Ooh, I just thought of another. Mauboussin would work very well, I think.

    Log in to Reply
  100. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 5:56 am

    Last summer, to my surprise, I wore a lot Montale Red aoud. Don't know if I'm crazy, but paradoxically it was really great in hot humid weather. Plus, saffron and red pepper and the gorgeou red bottle make it really festive for me

    Log in to Reply
  101. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 7:42 am

    Jo Malone Pomegrante Noir.

    Log in to Reply
  102. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 9:33 am

    I just got a sample of Idole and I like it a lot. I got a sample of Ambre Russe to hold me over until I buy a full bottle, too.
    I might have worn one of those but I have to travel to my sister's house so I won't be wearing any perfume

    Log in to Reply
  103. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 10:19 am

    I bet you really do smell wonderful!

    Log in to Reply
  104. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 10:20 am

    Happy Thanksgiving to you, too! Pairing perfume would German food could be tough. All I think of are wurst, rye bread, and beer.

    Log in to Reply
    • Marise says:
      23 July 2011 at 11:14 am

      Coriandre?

      Log in to Reply
      • Angela says:
        24 July 2011 at 12:22 pm

        Hey, I think you found a winner!

        Log in to Reply
  105. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 10:21 am

    Yes, that sounds good.

    Log in to Reply
  106. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 10:22 am

    Another vote for Pom Noir!

    Log in to Reply
  107. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 10:24 am

    I haven't tried that one, yet, but now I really want to! It goes on the list.

    Log in to Reply
  108. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 10:25 am

    Mmm, both nice samples. Too bad you can't wear perfume at your sister's house.

    Log in to Reply
  109. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 10:40 am

    I kind of 86'd Coco from my list this year, b/c I always wear it for the fall/winter…but since I'm actually wearing it today to help alleviate the blues of a cold snowy day, I can say for sure that Coco always goes with Thanksgiving feasts, pumpkin pie, good wines, etc….

    Log in to Reply
  110. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 10:42 am

    Hmmm- I hadn't thought about geographic locations for the different frags….I imagine that a waft of Nahema from my wrist as I “pass the potatoes” would be really nice….

    Log in to Reply
  111. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 10:42 am

    I wouldn't mind a little snow this week. It sounds so atmospheric. (So does the Coco, of course!)

    Log in to Reply
  112. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 10:50 am

    I was recently thinking about those “resort” “Florida” frags that we all dream about when we wish we were a million miles away in the warmth when we're freezing during mid January/February…here is my warm weather holiday picks: Givenchy Le De great spring/white flowers (or Givenchy III perfect always), Chanel No 19 for that chypre iris/green flowers/ hyacinth combo, and Hermes Kelly Caleche for that wonderful iris floral light leather arrangement — floral yet warm.

    Log in to Reply
  113. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 10:51 am

    Lucky us this time around – it is the perfect snow today – just like a snow globe, and everything is white….but it's not interfereing with normal life.

    Log in to Reply
  114. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 10:54 am

    It's important to be creative when you have so many fabulous scents to choose from!

    Log in to Reply
  115. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 1:50 pm

    hhhmmmm……this is interesting, it's my first t-day as a 'perfumista' type and also my first cooking. mr. rose and i will be the sole guests at my mom's house, i'm making lasagne, pesto as appetizer, and trifle for dessert.

    ma has already been hinting about breaking out the joseph phelp's insignia, so i'll try to get her to bust out her vintage ('70's) tabac blond parfum for the perfume aspect. it's the only parfum she's ever bought herself, and she chose well. mom is a very generous person. we ought to taste and smell divine!

    Log in to Reply
  116. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 1:54 pm

    : (

    Log in to Reply
  117. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 7:17 pm

    Sounds perfect.

    Log in to Reply
  118. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 7:18 pm

    Great suggestions–very elegant, too.

    Log in to Reply
  119. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 7:20 pm

    You are so lucky! Lots of us would give an arm to smell some good, vintage Tabac Blond.

    Log in to Reply
  120. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 8:44 pm

    I think I will wear SL Chene. Whaddaya think? Have a great Turkey Day Angela.

    Log in to Reply
  121. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 8:55 pm

    hi angela! it's true i am lucky, it's amazing. i would encourage anyone to try to get a chance to smell it if you can. the new stuff is quite nice, but the older stuff let's you know what the fuss is about.

    Log in to Reply
  122. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 9:29 pm

    Oh, I adore Chene. If I didn't already have my Dzing tradition, I would definitely be wearing Chene! Enjoy it.

    Log in to Reply
  123. Anonymous says:
    25 November 2008 at 9:30 pm

    Well, I'm truly jealous. This Thanksgiving you'll truly have something to be thankful for.

    Log in to Reply
  124. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 12:33 am

    Adieu Sagesse would also be a nice choice. As for all of that civility….well, you never know what lurks just a bit beneath the surface until a minor disagreement breaks out over whether the turkey could use a few more minutes in the oven. Doesn't matter whether the menu is down-home casual or over-the-top uptown style, families still act nutty at holiday meals!

    Log in to Reply
  125. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 4:02 am

    I'm wearing Patou's “Sira des Indes” for Thanksgiving this year–I think it will meld well with foody scents. Chanel “Bois des Isles” and Lanvin's “Arpege” might be other good choices. They both remind me of brown and black velvet, respectively. I wore “Bois des Isles” once during autumn, to an indoor/outdoor lodge in a state park. With a fire blazing in the stone fireplace and the subtle duskiness of dry leaves in the air, I felt completely like I belonged there as part of the picture. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

    Log in to Reply
  126. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 10:19 am

    So true! It just wouldn't be Thanksgiving without a little drama.

    Log in to Reply
  127. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 10:20 am

    Sira des Indes is perfect! I love your description of Bois des Iles and the lodge. I want to be there right now, in fact.

    Log in to Reply
  128. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 12:46 pm

    Exactly what Alice tasted when she drank from the bottle labelled “Drink Me”. Blame Lewis Carroll, if blame is called for– but I'd love to try it.

    Log in to Reply
  129. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 4:01 pm

    Gotta love a perfume with literary allusions…

    Log in to Reply
  130. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 6:11 pm

    It NEVER Snows here! The heat and humidity are oppressive over Christmas and for some reason, it is always a stinker on Christmas day. I love the cold weather so probably was born in the wrong country but what can you do? I know a lot of people would kill to have my problem!

    Log in to Reply
  131. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 6:17 pm

    I love incense so may go with one of the CDG incense series. I my Christmas tree is a decorated bonsai pine which is really cute but more a token than a real tree. I hate plastic ones and can't bring myself to buy one that has been chopped down just so it can decorate my home for a month. What would be your rec for an orange scent? I would like a creamy orange scent like the true scent of orange blossoms as opposed to the sharper tang of peel.

    Log in to Reply
  132. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 6:19 pm

    I don't own Red aoud but do have the black and white. Is the red any lighter than the other two? I adore these two but they are quite overwhelming and heady. I find that after a few hours I end up with a headache on all but the coldest days.

    Log in to Reply
  133. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 6:21 pm

    shockingly enough, I own none of these! (quite a feat when my collection is in the hundreds!) I will have to try these though. Thanks for your suggestions.

    Log in to Reply
  134. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 7:15 pm

    Moderate warm weather is perfect, but I happen to know them' critters grow pretty big in the heat. No. Thank. You…. :P

    Log in to Reply
  135. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 7:17 pm

    Christmas Bonsai pine? It must be adorable!

    We're not having a tree, we have a new kitten that thinks he's Tarzan! He's awfully cute though…. but he'd be swinging from it for sure!

    Log in to Reply
  136. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 7:18 pm

    It's so strange for me to imagine a hot Christmas! Well, I hope you enjoy yours, and you can come visit if you get a hankering for cold.

    Log in to Reply
  137. Anonymous says:
    26 November 2008 at 7:20 pm

    It sounds like a nice neroli-topped scent is what you're after and not one that's fruity orange. I'll have to think on that.

    Log in to Reply
  138. Anonymous says:
    27 November 2008 at 8:38 am

    I like black aoud very much and aoud roses petals is firmly in my top ten, but I can't possibly wear any of them in hot weather. I wouldn't say that Red aoud is a light scent at all, in fact it's atomic in sillage and persistance and more than one spritz could be overwhelming, but I think it has less aoud than the others and has a powdery sweetness that goes well during the summer (and winter too :)). My feeling is that in hot/humid weather many perfumes turn bitter on my skin, so I need sweet but not too thick scents.

    Log in to Reply
  139. Anonymous says:
    27 November 2008 at 1:42 pm

    Molinard Nirmala, to go with the marshmallow yams and rum apple cider :)

    Log in to Reply
  140. Anonymous says:
    28 November 2008 at 10:57 am

    It would go with them perfectly, too!

    Log in to Reply
  141. Anonymous says:
    1 December 2008 at 1:40 am

    Great topic! I chose to wear Frederic Malle's L'eau d'Hiver. I thought the subtleness of the pale honey and almond-like scent was perfect for a day of feasting. It wears so close to the skin and kept me warm on an otherwise cold Thanksgiving day. It was perfect.

    By the way, I've long been a lurker on this website, but this is my first post! I'm a fragrance neophyte, having only cracked into the strange, but fascinating world of perfume this year. I have a lot to learn!

    Log in to Reply
  142. Anonymous says:
    1 December 2008 at 1:42 am

    Great topic! I chose to wear Frederic Malle's L'eau d'Hiver. I thought the subtleness of the pale honey and almond-like scent was perfect for a day of feasting. It wears so close to the skin and kept me warm on an otherwise cold Thanksgiving day. It was perfect.

    By the way, I've long been a lurker on this website, but this is my first post! I'm a fragrance neophyte, having only cracked into the strange, but fascinating world of perfume this year. I have a lot to learn!

    Log in to Reply
  143. Anonymous says:
    1 December 2008 at 11:13 am

    Welcome! I'm glad you commented. It's wonderful to explore perfume–I feel like it not only makes me happy but also stretches my brain.

    L'Eau d'Hiver is a great choice–and it has the bonus of being nice and subtle so it won't fight with other aromas.

    Log in to Reply

Leave a reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Advertisement

Search

Browse by…

Topic

Perfume talk New fragrances
Shopping Books :: News
Body products Home fragrance
Polls Another subject

Date

February 2021
January 2021
December 2020
November 2020
October 2020
September 2020
Prior months

Author

Robin Jessica
Angela Kevin
Erin Guest Author

Tag

Celebrity perfumes
Cheap thrills
Collector bottles
Perfumista tip series
Video
The complete tag index

From NST at Twitter

  • @Counselor_Gal44 I don't always, but I really like these bottles so I hope I like at least one of this set!,
  • "Estée Lauder to close Rodin Olio Lusso" (cosmeticsbusiness) https://t.co/sXJcxxYlHW,

Recent reviews

Atelier Cologne Love Osmanthus
Moschino Toy Boy
Arquiste Misfit
Diptyque Eau Capitale
Zoologist Bee
Parfum d’Empire Immortelle Corse
Comme des Garcons Series 10 Clash
Frédéric Malle Rose & Cuir
L’Artisan Parfumeur Le Chant de Camargue
Yves Saint Laurent Grain de Poudre
Régime des Fleurs Chloë Sevigny Little Flower
Chanel 1957
Gallivant Los Angeles
Amouage Portrayal Woman

Blogroll

Bois de Jasmin
Grain de Musc
Perfume Posse
The Non-Blonde
More blogs...

Perfumista lists

100 fragrances every perfumista should try
And 25 more fragrances every perfumista should smell
50 masculine fragrances every perfumista should try
26 vintage fragrances every perfumista should try
25 rose fragrances every perfumista should try
11 Cheap Perfumes Beauty Outsiders Love

Favorite posts

The Great Perfume Reduction Plan
Why I Love Old School Chypres
New to perfume and want to learn more?
How to make fragrance last through the day
Fragrance concentrations: sorting it all out
On reformulations, or why your favorite perfume doesn’t smell like it used to
How to get fragrance samples
Perfume for Life: How Long Will Your Fragrance Collection Last?

Upcoming

List of upcoming Friday projects

24 April ~ swapmeet

Back to Top

Home
About Now Smell This :: Privacy Policy

Shop for Perfume Online
Perfume Shopping in New York
Perfume Shopping in London
Perfume Reviews
New Perfumes
General Perfume Articles
The Monday Mail

Glossary of Perfume Terms
Perfume FAQ
Perfume Links
Perfume Books
Fragrance Awards

Noses ~ Perfumers A-E :: F-K :: L-S :: T-Z

Perfume Houses A-B :: C :: D-E :: F-G
H-J :: K-L :: M :: N-O :: P :: Q-R :: S
T :: U-Z

Copyright © 2005-2021 Now Smell This. All rights reserved.