Same old open thread routine: talk about anything you like — what perfume you’re wearing today, the rare or vintage perfume you're looking for but can't find, whatever.
Or, ask a question about fragrance, then see if anyone else has asked a question that you can answer.
Note: image is orchidée au "vert" by Biscarotte at flickr; some rights reserved.
I’m not sure what perfume I’m going to wear today, but last night I suddenly had an awakening with Chanel’s Beige. I’ve had the large bottle for quite a while and spritz it now and then, but for some unknown reason to me, it blew me away last night. It just smelled so good on me, and I can still smell it this morning. That doesn’t usually happen to me with most of the Chanel Exclusifs with the exception of No. 22 and Coromandel. The Beige felt so lively and bright and like Spring was already here. I do not know what was different with either my chemistry or my olfactory sense, but I’m thinking I am going to use it more often–perhaps even today. Happy Weekend to all!
I have not yet sniffed any of the the Chanel exclusifs, but the chatter on this site is so positive, I’m beginning to think I need to recify that! I just checked their website, and sadly it doesn’t look like they do a tester set or boxed minis, which I often enjoy more than decants.
In my experience Chanel are quite generous with samples so I’d suggest either popping into the store or even giving them a call and asking nicely for them to send you some. They were happy to do it for me
They used to do these adorable 4ml miniatures as samples complete with a box and booklet but a few months ago they switched to the more standard carded spray samples which is a real shame, I think, far less luxurious.
I’ll have to get up the nerve to give a boutique a call (I assume that’s what you mean when you say “give them a call”) as we don’t have one here in Portland. It’s a shame they don’t have the 4 ml bottles you mention, as that sounds right up my alley!
Yup, that’s what I meant. It know it seems like a ballsy thing to do to call Chanel and ask for freebies but they didn’t seem to mind it when I did. I just politely explained that it’s tricky for me to get to the boutique and try them in person so would they we so kind as to post me a sample or two. I figured that if you don’t ask you don’t get and what’s the worst that can happen, anyway? They’ll say “No, madam, we can’t do that”
Btw, I’m a huge fan Les Exclusifs and if I was forced to choose my favourite line then I think I’d pick them. There’s something for everyone there and some of them are just wonderful.
Do you live in the States? I ask because I’ve had no luck at all getting samples from my Chanel Boutique…
Yes, I live in Oregon. I could imagine that you might be right that Chanel could be more generous overseas. . .t’would be a shame if that’s so!
I have visited the Chanel Boutique here in Toronto about 3-4 times and the first time a lovely lady gave me a 4ml bottle sample of Gardenia because I was so interested. When I came back to buy the Coco original body cream and eau de parfum refill, she gave me 3 or 4 samples of teh exclusifs line, all 4ml gift boxed bottles (which unfortunatley are all not screw cap bottles, so they may evporate overtime) I was very lucky with her and had never had such an amazing experience other than the first time I recieved my first miniature perfume bottle when I was a young girl visiting a department store with my father. You had to have a coupon to get the miniature and the old lady gave me one anyways. It was the happiest day of my young life and still is since I am now a huge collector
After I had collected one of each of almost all the Chanel Exclusifs scents, I called and explained that I was a loyal customer and would like to try the ones I was missing. They did not have any of the others when I had gone in before so I asked for them to call me when they recieved any sample bottles of the ones I requested and wanted to try.
Many times I have gone in using this particular explanation when the regualr lady was not there. I have been given doubles and don’t mind a bit. Would rather use the small bottles than buy a huge bottle of what I am not o into as my favourite from exclusifs is Gardenia. I am thinking about beige for summer though, but Gardenia is better to me. I use the doubles as purse sizes or for display on my dresser
I hope the 4ml bottles are still avail. here as I wouldn’t turn down triples or a newly constructed style perhaps with a tighter fitting cap that wont let frag. evaporate.
Today i am wearing my favourite, COCO original
OK, you’ve convinced me! Thank you! I’ve got to find my sample of Beige and give it another try. I thought it smelled like Avon bubble bath last time but, who knows, with spring on the way perhaps my skin chemistry or sense of smell will have changed? Fingers crossed.
Got to say, I was intimidated by the superchic boutiques on Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich, where I used to live, but the ladies in Chanel were absolutely adorable and very very kind. (Hermes, I kind of got a mixed reaction – sometimes snooty, sometimes lovely.) So yes, ring! Don’t be scared. They want your money, after all!
Would love an awakening with the Chanel Exclusifs! But first I need the opportuniity to smell them….. Loved this post as had an awakening today with Acqua di Parma Iris Nobile. Previously “Meh” and “Why?” today in John Lewis was “Wow”. This must be my spring fragrance and a full bottle beckons…. Why does a fragrance experience change so much?
Filomena, I love Beige, too. What a perfect springtime fragrance!
Haunani,
There is really something upbeat in Chanel Beige–unlike the color! And I do think it kind of awakens you, like the smells of Spring. Today it has been pouring rain and foggy. I should have sprayed it on myself today to see if it felt less dreary. Now I’m going to bed, but Beige is not something I would spritz on myself before going to sleep. I will need something not as “perky”. Decisions, decisions!
I LOVE CHANEL!!!
Enjoy that big bottle for years to come hopefully~
Gardeni reminds me of my moter when she lifeguarded at our apt. pool. It reminds me of my mother in the 80’s with her big hair and her tan skin. The first time I smelt Gardenia in the botique here in Downtown Toronto, images of my mother’s soft skin conjured.
I love all the Chanels, there is not one I hate, but I def. like more the original coco, allure, mademoiselle and the new chance tendre and the gardenia and beige from the exclusifs
Hey folks, would anbody be interested in my vintage Pucci Vivara, EDT, 2 oz? I’ve tried so hard to love it, but it just doesn’t seem to work on me
neverthless, it’s a nice sunny day, perfect for Etat’s Like This! Have a sunny weekend all of you!
A sunny weekend to you too
Sun? What is this sun you speak of?? We’re at something like nine inches of rain for the week – and pouring now!
NJ is so confused…. 2 days ago we were in the 30s with high wind, today I went out wearing my winter coat over a fleece pullover for an extended series of errands and the car thermometer read 61 degrees.
No perfume today because I couldn’t decide. Getting a cold, so may be pointless as well…
I hope you beat the cold, Opera Fan!
Same weather here… my winter perfumes become heavy and too sweet by afternoon, but my spring summer ones still seem sharp and out of season.
oh well, just two days ago, we had some snowfall here in good ol’ Europe, but all’s good now. rain rain go away!
I found a new love in KORS by Michael Kors. Smells like cherries dipped in sex. Been looking for a woman’s frag that doesn’t smell like everything else out there. KORS out-edges because of its strength and complex linearity (oxymoron, I know). Its playful yet serious all at once. I am sure it isn’t entirely unique, but there is something about it that makes it unforgettably lovely. A shame its discontinued, though readily available online. Love the bottle too.
I’ve heard it also has a coffee note to it. Do you get that at all?
You know, i can’t tell, I’ll have to sniff and think coffee to see if I get anything. I’ll see if I can get a feminine perspective as well, maybe body chemistry masks it.
Attrape-Coeur, Guerlain. I just want to spritz all the Gurelains right up my nose, they’re so mwah.
I’m looking for a very sunny warm musk, with presence. I like Pearl from Ava Luxe but it wears too close, and is completely gone on me in an hour. Any suggestions welcome.
have you tried Barbara Bui’s Le Parfum? it’s very yum. Musk and gentle incense and can be had for a song.
Huh, no, never heard of it — and apparently it’s discontinued. I found some listed on ebay, but I’m not allowed to buy anything else without trying it first. I’ll keep my eyes open for it, anyway, thanks.
Hi Zara, where have you seen this lately? I’ve heard wonderful things about it.
Love that Attrape Coeur!
On the musk front – have you tried Sonoma Scent Studio’s musk scents? Laurie does gorgeous work and they’re very reasonably priced.
… in fact, SSS’s Sienna Musk may just be your tkt.
Hi agentbetty,
In case you’re still checking back for suggestions, I thought I’d offer a couple of musks that I think meet your sunny musk request –
1) Sunshine by CJScents – simple and pretty (cjscents.com – not affiliated, but know her from mua and she’s awesome)
2) Andrea Maack Sharp – samples available at LuckyScent. This is all about the musk on me, with a lovely opening of orange blossom (the sunny part) and vanilla. It is light, yet the drydown ges on and on with a beautiful musk.
Debby
Thank you, thank you, yes I am checking back — I appreciate the suggestions! Funny, 10 minutes ago I spritzed on Champagne du Bois; love SSS. I haven’t tried her musks yet!
Musc Ravageur from Frederic Malle is a gorgeous, warm musk scent. It has lavender and bergamot in the top notes which give it a lift and lightness. You can wear it lightly, so it stays close to the skin, or you can apply a little more heavily and it has pretty good sillage without being overpowering. It sticks to clothes and hair as well, so it tends to radiate about one’s personage!!! It’s versatile too – you could wear it to bed, on a relaxed day off work, or out on a date!
Muscs Koublai Khan is a grrrreat suggestion that I second! It can be fecal when fist applied, but it dries down into a warm, enveloping, sweet, sexy aura.
Sonoma Scent Studio Rose Musc or Egyptian Musk. Great longetivy, even a 24 hour.half life if used with the body creams. Anything by Narciso Rodriguez. Meh to Kiehls.
I just scored a bottle of Vol de Nuit Evasion which is Attrape-Coeur in EDT formulation. Both are discontinued; VdNE was only available in duty free shops in Europe to begin with and is now discontinued as well. Booo.
I actually like the EDT version of Attrape-Coeur better – it’s less dense and unfolds for a while before getting to that fabulous amber drydown. I can also continue to smell the rose and violet on fabric through the day.
This is going to sound like an odd musk idea, but I’ve found by being brave and trying Serge Lutens Muscs Koublai Khan several times that after the first 20 minutes or so it becomes a wonderful, radiant multi-layered musk that sort of scintillates among different types of musks. There’s even some rose in there. I often wear it to bed because it makes the sheets smell really good for days.
Trying La Belle Helene (Parfums MDCI) this morning… seems to be gorgeous so far!
Lucky you. I am dying to try this one.
I like that one MUCH better than I thought I would.
Me too… unfortunately (meaning impending misfortune for my back account)!
Whooo! My sample is on the way. Good to hear you like it, R.
Mind you, I’m not sure I love it. But surprised I don’t hate it
I got a sample but can’t decide about La Belle Helene yet. In the same order I finally got Enlevement au Serail and loved it! The blogs–and Luca Turin–are right about this one. Wow. Pricey stuff, unfortunately.
I recently got a sampler set from MDCI and of course missed knowing about this one by about two weeks. But Peche Cardinale and Enelvement au Serail are gorgeous creatures.
Peche Cardinale is amazing…I know people thought it was too much, but that is what I love about it!!
I’m thinking my next FB purchase might be on of the YSL Paris flankers. I’m ordering a few samples from TPC of what they have but it seems to me there are a ton of them out there. Anyone have any recommendations. I love the original from the 80s. I’m not a huge rose fan but Paris and JC Brosseau’s Ombre Rose have always been favorites of mine.
(Btw, anyone read the public opinion poll of Prada Infusion Rose in this month’s Allure? It cracked me up because they were all younger women and the reviews were kind but they were definitely “not for me”. One even said her mom would like it. lol)
Hey, that’s a good sign!
My thoughts exactly!
So true! I just think it’s so funny how younger women are repelled my anything rose becasue they’re afraid of smelling like their mom or grandmother. Smelling like my mother or g-ma is a high compliment. Both ladies have excellent noses.
There was one I really liked…going to see if I can figure out which.
Ok, it was Paris Jardins Romantiques. Unfortunately that’s from 2007, and not sure about the shelf life or availability.
https://nstperfume.com/2007/02/26/paris-jardins-romantiques-lhomme-yves-saint-laurent-eau-dt-other-limited-editions-from-ysl/
Thanks Robin! Yup, that one made it to my top 3.
Hello everyone! I’m recovering from a cold and my sense of smell is not quite back to normal yet but I’m wearing SL Jeux de Peau today. Anyone else tried it? I think I mentioned in the past that SL is one of those houses that makes scents that I often like but rarely love but they sent me a sample recently and I’m kind of digging it.
OOH! I’m jealous! I just ordered my sample from Aedes and impatiently waiting!
I know what you mean about SL. I have sniffed EVERYTHING the Perfume House has from SL, and many of them are really nice. I know that sounds insipid, but I mean that they are pleasant, interesting, and inoffensive, and yet. . .most of them don’t speak to me. I’d put Rousse, Douce Amere, 5 o’clock Au Gingimbre all in the “I wouldn’t say no to a gift, but not sure I would invest in a FB at full price” camp. I DO own Gris Clare and don’t regret it!
It was a pleasant surprise. I’m subscribed to their newsletter so a couple of weeks ago I got en email basically saying “we’d like to send you a sample of L’eau and Jeux de Peaux, just fill this form and let us know where to post them to” which I thought was very nice of them
“I wouldn’t say no to a gift, but not sure I would invest in a FB at full price” is exactly how I tend to feel about most of SLs too. Bois de Violette is the only one that I own and – for reasons unknown even to me – absolutely adore but the rest are… nice but no cigar.
Thanks for the tip – I just signed up, so we’ll see if they are still doing it!
Good luck! I should mention that I am in Europe so I don’t know if it’s a world wide thing or not. Still, worth a try, right?
More details please!! I am dying to try this!
I hear what both you and M.Rose are saying, but I have not tried most of the line–I do own a FB of BdS though, which was an unsniffed purchase. I regret it at first, but now I don’t at all. Maybe they need more time or specific moods?
But, I am very curious about doughy notes, so this moved to the top of the ‘sample next list.’
I’m not sure I’d describe it as doughy, more of a toasted croissant dripping with butter. It’s really rather uncanny. I like that it’s comforting (why I chose it today) yet not at all cloying, heavy or OTT.
hmm, interesting. Intrigued for sure, but not certain how accurately a rendition of a croissant I want to smell like. I guess I could put Emotionelle on the other arm and smell like a more well-rounded breakfast.
Speaking of dough, I’m having the final showdown between Iris Silver Mist and the Zerjoff Irisss; well nothing really goes near ISM for me, (and to think I lived all those years blissfully unaware!) but I’ll be darned if I don’t get a little bready note in Irisss. Its a very nice cold iris, but too dear. I think the Heeley is probably better for a cool earthy iris…
I’m going to give the Mugler Mirior Envies another mention, its a beaut bready-nutty thing; I’m really curious about the new Lutens as to whether it is anything like the Mugler??
I was wondering about the SL and Envies connection, too. Haven’t tried JdP yet, but from the reviews I’ve read, I would guess it is both breadier or butterier as well as heavier. I always think Envies is a surprisingly light and fresh scent for something so close to Nutella!
Keep in mind that I have a very vague recollection of the Mugler but I’d say that breadier and more buttery/creamy is accurate. SL is not a heavy scent either and I’d say that it’s less syrupy sweet than Mugler.
How serendipitous!
I received my sample in the mail a few hours ago, requested from the SL website.
I’m smelling a hazelnut note that is paired with an apricot jam, with a grain/bread note beneath. This doesn’t even smell ‘too gourmand’ – as if you spilled food on yourself. There is also a smooth wood note – one of the synthetic sandalwoods – but this is by no means a dis, a la Luca Turin.
I will be purchasing this, it is intriguing.
My scent of the day, which I had on before retrieving the mail, is Norma Kamali INCENSE. Big bold and smoky, I think this smells like Messe de Minuit minus the mildew.
And my question, I’m loving Carnal Flower but this reads as more of a gardenia scent than tuberose on my skin. Anyone else?
How cool! I would agree with you that JdP doesn’t smell too gourmand or foody as such. This probably makes little sense considering I described it earlier as smelling like a toasted croissant but there you go.
I can’t say that I noticed any gardenia in Carnal Flower which is just as well since I’m not really a fan of the note.
Oh la de dah, I can’t believe I didn’t finish reading before I posted the above…now I’m just consumed with impatience…
SL is the house that I was not in love with for a long time but I have found myself suddenly on the dark side. I own 2 bottles (Arabie and Fleurs d’Oranger) and am actively pursuing a couple of others. Jeaux du Peaux, however does not appeal to me at all! I keep hearing things like “buttered popcorn” that send me right off.
Hi Abyss. So far, Jeux is not my favorite Serge, and I’m usually a fan.
It’s not bad, but it doesn’t sing to me. It’s sort of a toasty, very immortelle scent. I don’t get the apricot very strongly. It reminds me a bit of ELdO Like This, without the ginger note. I guess I don’t think it breaks much new ground when there are immortelle-centered scents such as AG Sables. Again, not bad, but not one I need to own. Of course, I do need to sample at least one or more additional times to be sure.
Thanks for chiming in, Joe! I’m not really familiar with any immortelle scents and I’ve yet to sniff either Like This or Sables so I can’t compare. I’m definitely curious to try them after reading this, though.
The only fragrance that SL kind of, maybe, vaguely reminded me of was Jo Malone Dark Amber and Ginger Lily. JM is more green and gingery while SL is more toasted and smooth but I think it was the creamy woody facets that connect the two for me.
It’s cold but sunny today in MN so I put on By Killian Pure Oud. Just a sample but I am seriously thinking of a full bottle (my CC just let out a tiny gasp). I haven’t smelled Rose Oud yet, I need to get some samples from Aedes and check it out. I love Aedes, they are very kind and generous. I got to visit their store a year ago when i was in NY, I could live there! I bought a few bath things and they sent me out with several dozen samples, both for me and a girlfriend back home looking for a new scent. I described what she liked and they selected things for her. I’m pretty sure she ended up ordering something from them and they sent more samples. Really great customer service and so friendly.
Kelly
I just tried Rose Oud last week, and it is a lovely scent. My impression is that the rose is more similar to sticking my nose in a lush, fully open bloom than nearly anything else I’ve sniffed (although that is admittedly a short list). However, I think I’ve decided it’s on the “not for me” list. I don’t really have any criticisms, it just doesn’t speak to me strongly enough to invest in a FB (although I’ve considered a large decant).
BTW, I’m flying out to MN for spring break to visit some friends. I’ve been trying to decide which fragrances to pack with me. Should I be thinking “winter” still? I used to live there (6 years ago), and I remember March being really tricky–there can be a 70 degree difference one week to the next!
Oh it’s still pretty much deep winter right now and it’s been a bad one overall. We have lots of snow that isn’t going to disappear anytime soon. And yes, March is a very tricky month. I’d bring comfy scents w/ maybe one springy one. I am eager to crack out the Maître Parfumeur et Gantier Iris when spring finally arrives.
I’d call it winter with the promise of spring in the air. We’re finally seeing more days around/above freezing than below. My winter frags don’t seem right anymore, but light springy things can’t stand up to the temps just yet either.
You could try the 50 ml refill of Pure Oud for $175 which is MUCH cheaper then getting the whole box and key thing…they sell it at Luckyscent.
Agent Betty: I suggest Musc Ravageur by Edition F. Malle, Sienna Musk by Sonoma Scent Studio, Musc by Mona di Orio or L’eau d’histoire by Mauboussin:
all four great warm musk scents…
By the way: Ilike Attrape Coeur very much, it’s a pity that it had been discontinued.
Has anyone else had this problem?
I have been trying for days to purchase Keikio Mecheri’s sample let from her website, but it never seems to work! UGH!!
That’s crazy, have you tried emailing them?
Call them. I tried to purchase Oliban last week and the message was ‘credit card info invalid.’ If only!
Called and spoke to Keiko herself, very pleasant and lots of extra samples. The number is on the contact page.
I tried last year – first of all, they added $8 shipping charges when they weren’t supposed to for samples only, so I emailed them to point it out and never got a response. The order never processed either, so I decided they weren’t worth the effort.
After a job interview I thought had gone well resulted in unreturned phone calls, I’ve been sulking around the house for over a week. Even though I’m nearly broke I had a Macys gift card burning it’s way out of my wallet…so I treated myself to the 2010 Chanel Fragrance Wardrobe and the past three days I’ve been walking around like I am the sh*t.
I am so proud to finally say that I understand what all the fuss is over extraits. My mood was instantly lifted and I’ve never felt so glamorous, or even imagined being able to feel so glamourous. I have definitely reached the next level in my quest to become a perfumista. Who needs a job? I have Chanel.
tits about the interview- but walking around like you are the sh*t sounds like a good consolation (and it made me smile… imagining a very dramatic catwalk-like-walk around the house)
I am right there with you, Lucy! I’ve been unemployed for so long, I’m now digging through stuff to sell on *bay to maintain my perfume habit. And I don’t use the term “habit” loosely!!
Sorry about the job. Glad you smell good anyway.
You go Lucy! You made me smile!
Hey, you might have ended up in some militant anti-perfume office where even scented deodorant is banned — far better to be broke and smell great! Seriously, though, I am sorry about the job, but I love the attitude — you are indeed the sh*t.
I’m sorry it took me so long to get back here…I just want to thank everyone for their well wishes. To the fellow unemployed fragrance hounds, hang in there. Perseverance sucks, but unemployment really can’t last forever.
Oh, and TJ Maxx has a clearance section (beyond their already low prices). It has helped me keep my sanity.
Happy Saturday all! It was my roommate’s birthday celebration last night and I am currently trying to figure out what perfume is best for a hangover. Not a bad one, obviously (who wants to wear perfume at all if they’re hugging the toilet… probably ruin the perfume forever for you) but a sort of mild, feeling ‘dry’ one. I am thinking some Heeley menthe fraiche or PG Yuzo ab Irato…something refreshing. A hangover as an excuse to bust out summer perfumes, who knew.
Oh, Meg. How awful.
Erin had an article recently about perfumes for sick times:
https://nstperfume.com/2011/02/17/5-perfumes-for-a-brief-illness/
Might be of some help.
In aromatherapy, peppermint is recommended for treating a hangover, so something with mint might be worth a try. If you have any mint tea, you might also try drinking some of that.
Thank you for the advice! A peppermint-type perfume is definitely on my eventual complete (ha!) perfume collection list. But right now, my Heeley’s sample will have to do. It will never be a FB for me tho, because despite the name I do not find it very consistently fresh. After more of a spicy/green mint, less synthetic. Now that we’re on the subject I seem to remember a post about mint perfumes. Must go search.
Perfume for hangovers! That’s a new one! That’s what I love about this blog!
When I feel bad I want 7-UP. Maybe a light lemon-lime with a little fizz. Demeter might have something like that.
That definitely sounds very appealing
Testing DelRae’s Debut today, and beginning to come to the conclusion this is another line that is not my friend. Too heavy, and with a bit of a “chemical” smelling edge. Maybe it will improve as it dries down.
Not my friend either, EST. As you said, too chemical.
I think our EST status is in serious jeopardy.
We do have a lot of very interesting overlaps!
Hi Boojum, have you noticed the chemical edge throughout the line (or just in debut)? I have had a similiar experience with the AG’s I have tried- Ninfeo Mio and Un Matin d’Orage. I am note sure if it is just a note present in these two particular perfumes, or it is a base sort of across the whole line, but I get a sort of dry, astringent, high-pitched background lurking in both of these that eventually turned me off them.
You know… I’m not sure. All the ones I’ve tried so far have been heavy, but the chemical comment was for Debut specifically. I haven’t been taking very good notes, beyond “like” or “don’t like” lately…. just too busy. :/
Hi Meg, hope I’m not being intrusive- but thought I’d chime in about the Delraes. Debut was the only one I found to be “chemical”- all the rest I thought were very well done. Amoureuse and Mythique, IMHO are oh so gorgeous and are at least decant worthy, Coup de Foudre is pretty and wearable, and though I only took a whiff of Panache, it was nice. And I didn’t detect “chemical” there… so I think it might just be Debut.
Not intruding at all! I don’t know about the Delrae’s-the only one I have tried is Emotionelle- I suppose I am just curious about the ‘signature’ bases in certain lines, and wondering if Boojum detected that (and if it what was turning her off in the Debut). I’ve heard it said about the musty bases of some of Bertrand’s additions to L’a P, some sort of violet/woody thing in SLs, and was wondering if anyone else got the reoccuring astringent thing from AG that I was.
not necessarily *bad* or offputting bases, just signatures.
I don’t think I’ve noticed a common base so far, but everything I’ve tried in the line has been very heavy. Amoureuse, for example, was like spreading pure honey on my skin. Not really my style.
I get the same impression. I tried so hard to like Debut (all the raves! I must be missing something!) but to me it was just brash and artificial. But Delrae is still a great line. I just hated Debut.
I know many lily of the valley scents have been reformulated…I think one of the commonly used chemicals got banned? So wonder if Debut is one of the victims.
Interesting. You know, I like Debut, but it does have a weird edge; not sure it’s chemical or just something in the way the accords mesh.
I don’t get that in Amoureuse, but I know that is definitely way too heavy and cloying for you.
I was surprised to hear Panache was too much for you; I find that one not overdone. How about Mythique? It must be the lightest of the line.
I got the best news yesterday… Lexington, Ky. has a perfume house!! I was lamenting to a perfume friend that we had nothing here except Dillards and Macy’s, and she told me about a new shop that had opened in the Fall – The Crushed Violet. From their website it looks like they carry some great niche brands, including L’Artisan and Serge Lutens!
I’m doing laundry, watching Kansas vs. Missouri in b’ball, and wearing SSS Incense Pure in our very soggy, in-between weather.
Happy weekend everyone!
Oh, that sounds so fun! My town has NOTHING.
Yes! and the owner is a long-time mua member and just lovely!! Wish I were closer…I’d head right over to the store now.
I can’t wait to go meet her!
Great news for you, Rappleyea!
I love Lexington and will have to stop in next time I’m there. So glad you posted this!
Email me at rappleyea11 at yahoo dot com when you are coming! We can have a mini-sniffa!!
Well, it is unequivocally spring here, so I am finding that the winter scents I was enjoying just a few weeks ago suddenly aren’t as appealing. Right now I have SSS Voile de Violette on one arm and SSS Wood Violet on the other. I figure that if we had violets here, they would probably be blooming about now. Last fall, when I first got my samples, I had dismissed VdV as too simple and too much like other things I already have (Violettes de Toulouse and AG La Violette). Wood Violet appealed to me more, but I thought it was too much like SL Bois de Violette, which I already have, to justify a FB. Smelling them now, I have had to revise my opinion. I find the VdV much richer and more complex than I had thought, and the Wood Violet to be more violet and less cedary than it had seemed. Funny how the weather can affect perceptions of smell!
Oh, BTW, all the FB cart buttons are up on the SSS site except for Jour Ensoleille, Ambre Noir, Cameo, and Champagne de Bois, and there is a note that Cameo and CdB will be available soon (I can’t wait!)
Thanks for the mini-review of Wood Violet. I want to give it a try (as a sample). I do like cedar tho’ … Glad to hear that the cart buttons are going up.
You know, I am not sure if I’ve tried the SSS violets or not. I must, if I haven’t! I do love violet.
The SSS violets are very nice. They have good longevity too, even on my perfume-eating skin. I put them on this morning and now, eight hours later and having worked out in the garden for a while, I still can detect them on my wrists.
Just rememer that,if all things being equal, Wood Violet is Made in the USA, and price-wise a better buy.
Great point!
SOTD is Cruel Gardenia, thanks to everyone’s favorite enabler, Daisy.
The vial of CG sat unopened for a couple of weeks. I dislike white flowers, and with a name like “cruel” I was terrified to try it. One day in a moment of courage I opened it being careful not to spill any on my hands, and dabbed a drop onto my hand–where I could wash it off quickly. I’m sure you’ve already guessed what happened: I fell in love. It’s happened to everyone here, I’m sure. What a kick this perfume hobby is. I love the surprise element to it.
Btw, CG is neither cruel nor a gardenia. It smells like cow’s butter, to me, which sounds gross but isn’t. There are some kind of flowers buried in there but I don’t even care what they are!
Happy Saturday everybody. Another great thing about this hobby is all the nice people you meet!
Now you make me want to try it, Suzy! Great job enabling!! Daisy would be proud.
Yup. Never would have tried something called “cruel gardenia” on my own, but your description sounds interesting enough to put on my sniff list!
OK, I have a question that I feel dumb in asking. What exactly constitutes an incense perfume?
Does an incense perfume have to have wood resins in it, as opposed to a woody perfume which would have only the ‘fresh’ wood scent in it? I have sandalwood incense, but if a scent is heavy in sandalwood (with no resins) is it a woody fragrance as opposed to an incense scent? Or is it that an incense scent has to have a smoke dimension? Maybe I’m crazy for wondering about this and there isn’t a clear demarcation between the two categories.
To my mind you have it correct, sandalwood is a woody fragrance, and when there is wood and a smoke element it constitutes incense. The CDG Incense series has 5 distinctly different scents but a common thread is a smoke scent.
Plus, push comes to shove, there are no official rules on scent families. Everyone’s opinion is as valid as the next. YMMV
oh… I too would like some expert answers on this! I always thought I liked the smell of incense, but when I sampled a couple of incense based scents, I was baffled. Some I liked, Some I didn’t, but all in all, I just got very confused of what defines this note.
Incense generally means frankincense, with or without a smoke note.
I’ve tried several incense perfumes and decided the one I want to buy is Bois d’Encens. It’s absolutely beautiful, no matter that it doesn’t last long. I need to find out where to buy it and just how much it costs. (Too much, I’m sure.) I liked the vintage Messe de Minuit I got from TPC, but the newer one I recall from trying at a department store was much dryer. I find a lot of incense scents too dry, like Avignon. Plus, Avignon just lasts and lasts; I can’t escape it, it’s distracting. L’Air du Desert Marocain was not dry, but rather, too piny and almost urinous. Yes, incense is a wonderful blend of wood and smoke. Bois d’Encens is gorgeous!
I have seen Bois d’Encens in Neiman Marcus, so if you have a NM near you, try there. Think it is $175 for 50 ml.
Here ya go, but the price ain’t pretty…….
http://www.giorgioarmanibeauty-usa.com/bois-d%E2%80%99encens/A004,default,pd.html?dwvar_A004_size=1%2e7%20oz&start=6&cgid=armani-prive
ceelouise, I tried to find Bd’E last weekend without success. Although it shows up on the Armani USA website, as Bear notes, it won’t let me select a quantity (I did not try calling, I admit).
I did call the Saks 5th Avenue near me. They were out but offered to track it down for me. Later, they called back and said BdE was no longer available due to “repackaging” but would be back in about three months. I’m afraid “repackaging” really means reformulation – shudder!!! Kicking myself for not having bought it on the spot two years ago. :-((((
Then again, “repackaging” *might* mean “maybe the old bottles will show up at discounters and TJ Maxx” — hope springs eternal!
Incense perfumes, presumably, usually have frankincense as a note. It is not necessarily a smoky note.
But you can make what we call “incense” out of all sorts of plant materials, including sandalwood.
OK, gang — I need advice on perfume to wear to a … [gulp] .. college reunion. I’m looking to project the image of success (as opposed to the actual success that most of my classmates have achieved!) plus a dash of fascinating femme fatale. My ideas are:
Tauer Une Rose Chypree
Montale Jasmine Full
Divine
Bandit
Oh, and it’s super-posh and black tie, for added context. Help!
I haven’t tried the Montale but out of the other 3 I’m voting for Divine. I think that would fit the occasion perfectly!
My suggestion: NOT Bandit its too ‘difficult.’
MY choice would be Montale Jasmine Full, but you should choose the one that makes you feel the most confident.
I don’t envy you – I hate reunions of any kind.
Hey,
Had the same nightmare last year only to discover that people that used to be the in-group are a bunch of unpolished and snobby brats that have not changed much… despite of black tie and posh surroundings…
Here is my trick for a femme fatale look (every 2-3 years, I do crawl from under my rock)
Good sleep and a long massage the night before the event
Immaculate haircolor and cut, and nails (no hair spray or beige colors anywhere)
Expensive shoes
A comfortable dress, something that shows off you and not the manufacturer (no lace, no black, no manmade materials or any of the victoria’s secret like stuff, show shouders not cleavage)
An attitude of “I am everybody’s sunshine, today and always”
As a proud perfumista of 16+years, I let myself say this,
with all of the above, perfume…does…not…matter… (I will be banned from this website for sacrilage, I know), but if you must, wear your comfor scent even if it is baby oil.
All IMHO and good luck!
(smelling my cat’s tummy and wondering if I am up for a degree in chemistry to reproduce the smel of it…)
mmmmm…cat tummy…
you know Nat, I totally agree with Lanuitdemiel, wear your comfort scent
I will have a class reunion in a month and I will be wearing jeans and Cuir de Russie or Emeraude or L’Heure Bleue or N5 Eau Premiere. but just a drop.
have fun my dear
You’ll have one or more votes for everything. I think Une Rose Chypree is fantastic and has at LEAST a dash of femme fatale.
Agreed… which is why I wore it to my 20 yr high school reunion, with the same goals in mind.
I love Bandit. But wear what makes you feel beautiful!
I think I’ve narrowed it down to Bandit or URC — the latter is just a great posh-event scent, while the former is like confidence-in-a-can (and nicely fits the f-you persona I cultivated in college). Thanks, all, and a special wave of the perfectly manicured hand to Lanuitdemiel for the bonus tips!
I just discovered my new favorite perfume, Aedes de Venustas by L’artisan. I got a sample from Aedes.com. The opening was a bumpy ride,and I almost washed it off, but I made myself wait awhile, and I’m so glad I did. After the half hour mark, it turned into the most delicious thing, and I couldn’t keep my nose away from my wrist!
I so want to sniff this!
Yeah, I wanna smell it again too! The sample vial was only 1/4 full, so it must be really expensive.
If it was 1/4 full, it must have leaked. I have had issues with leaky vials from them. Mine was pretty much a full vial.
Dear NSTers, another question from my newbie self.
I love perfume, some of them love me back, some don’t, but anyway, I love the species in general. That said, I’ve never tried any “classics” or vintage perfumes, due to the following reason. They SCARE me. They sound so beautiful that I’m afraid of being disappointed, or that I simply don’t have the nose to appreciate them, when I desperately want to.
I know it sounds silly, but meh, I’ve been silly in other things too.
I was wondering if anyone else experienced similar feelings, or, how you ventured into the “classic” world when you began exploring perfumes. And maybe you can suggest some of the easier “classics”? Thanks in advance!
Hessed, I can sympathise!
As you may well remember, I’m a newbie myself. My experiments with “classics” and “vintage” has been limited to a few forays into estate sale perfumes. I find the bargain-hunting aspect of it fun, but having so little reference, it’s been very hit and miss.
I went to an estate sale where the former owner clearly had been a Guerlain junky and bought Mitsouko e.d.p. and an older Shalimar. I feel like a bit of a perfumista Neanderthal to admit it, but I don’t really like either of them! Based on other people’s descriptions, I was ready for LOVE! It has been a disappointment and has scared me off of my estate sales shopping for a while. I feel like I need more education, first, to make more successful choices.
Hi Newbies Hessed and Marjorie Rose!
Here’s some advice from someone who was a newbie only two years ago. Keep trying as many classics as possible. Don’t be surprised if that Mitsouko edp or Rochas Femme you dislike now smells very differently to you a year from now. Your nose will develop and your taste will change with time and experience.
And as Robin always advises, go slow with your collecting.
P.S. Marjorie Rose, hold onto those estate sale finds!
How’d you know that the other one I bought was Rochas?! Actually, it was the men’s Eau de Rochas, which I put in the “can’t decide until the weather warms up” pile. Uncanny, in any case!
(BTW, they also had “Shocking” which I’d not heard of and looked up after the fact. I kinda regret not buying it since it has such a storied past, even if I did think it smelled terrible!)
LOL. There’s a lot of Rochas floating around and some of it is quite good. Eau de Rochas is well loved on the blogs during the summer.
Hi Suzy Q!
You’re right in that the tastes change! When I first began sampling niche perfumes, some of those were baffling, scowl inducing, even- whereas I find that I like them now as I try them again.
Slow with collecting sounds right… It’s a good thing I’m sort of broke right now- I’m just buying a bunch of samples and maybe after a couple more rounds of sampling I’ll know what’s true love and what’s fling
I went to an estate sale where the former owner clearly had been a Guerlain junky and bought Mitsouko e.d.p. and an older Shalimar. I feel like a bit of a perfumista Neanderthal to admit it, but I don’t really like either of them! Based on other people’s descriptions, I was ready for LOVE! It has been a disappointment and has scared me off of my estate sales shopping for a while. I feel like I need more education, first, to make more successful choices.
Marjorie Rose, I’m feeling you! When I try these fragrances, I want to fall in LOVE! I once sampled Mitsouko at a Guerlain counter (I’m assuming this is the reformulated version though) and the ballooned heart I came with simply deflated. Where was the love serenade I expected?!! Same thing with Samsara, Chanel’s no.19… and from then on I’ve been… wary… to say the least.
hopefully both of us will be able to jump on the classic love bandwagon after a year or two? And in that case, I hope you report back about those vintage fragrances you scored! Lucky you!
Oh shoot, I copy pasted your comment which is something i do when I reply to people, and forgot to erase it. Dang, I fee silly now…
No need to stress. There are some modern niche fragrances scare me! Just go to the mall and start sniffing the classics that you find there – the Chanels, the Guerlains, the Diors, etc – and take it from there. Follow your nose to what you like. The Perfumed Court offers all sorts of wonderful-sounding sample packs at reasonable prices, and here is a wonderful website to get you started:
http://yesterdaysperfume.typepad.com/yesterdays_perfume/
And also:
http://www.cleopatrasboudoir.com/apps/blog/
Perfume Shrine also has a wonderful series of posts on classics in its ‘fragrance review and history’. These are really wonderful posts. Mitsouko was featured recently:
http://perfumeshrine.blogspot.com/2011/03/guerlain-mitsouko-fragrance-review.html
Really the issues around classics and vintage are a) reformulation; b) if you are buying vintage, it can be hard to know what iteration of a fragrance you are buying; and c) that vintage the top notes in fragrances can turn, and smell a little icky, and that does scare some people (not me!). On b) research on bottle design can help.
There are disappointments so the more research you do, the better. My tips are:
– wear what you like
– don’t risk too much money
– do some research
Have fun!
Thank you for the links! Perfume Shrine is awesome. I’ll have to check out the other two links too.
It’s funny that I HATE research but am willing to do that for ‘fumes…
Hi Hessed,
I’m wearing vintage Le De EDT today, and I’m finding it refreshingly modern. Why not give it a go? I used to LOVE Mitsouko extrait, which is definitely one of the classics. In fact it was my signature scent for years. But I think that it lost its fruity richness when it was reformulated- on me anyway. I recommend that you try it and see if it suits you better. Many of the classics have been redone, some several times over. So don’t be intimidated by them. They are classics because they have been loved by many people. Plus, it is by sniffing that you can eventually distinguish perfume notes. Have fun!
Hi Pekefan,
Mitsouko is one of classics I really wanted to love. I should go try it out again… is the modern version dramatically different from its original? Then again, I don’t know what the original smells like… heh…
Will try Le De, though I’m not sure where I’ll be able to find it. Thank you!
With vintage, one of the risks is that the particular bottle may have turned. Perfume does not automatically go bad just because it is old, but if it is treated improperly (high heat, bright light, contamination), it can spoil. If it is only the top notes that are off, the perfume is still wearable, you just have to be willing to give it a few minutes for the damaged notes to weather off. If the damage is deeper, however, the perfume may be ruined. If you don’t know what that particular perfume should smell like, you may get a false impression. Just keep in mind that what you smell may not be what you are supposed to be smelling. If you find another sufficiently cheap bottle elsewhere, you might try giving it another shot, in case the first one was bad. Of course, there is no absolute need for you to bother with vintage or classic at all; if you love contemporary perfumery, so be it! Wear what you like. After all, there is plenty to choose from! All the same, I do understand wanting to know what all the fuss is about. Some of the names–Femme, Bandit, Diorissimo, no. 5, Shalimar, Mitsouko-get bandied about so much here it is natural to want to know what everyone is talking about. Just don’t stress over it. Sniff everything you can, but don’t spend too much money on an unsniffed purchase.
50_Roses, “wear what you like!” is the best
I remember squealing with both delight and agony that there were SO MUCH perfumes out there that I’ve never tried, and when I think I’ve caught up a bit, there’s something else being released. So contemporary perfumes alone may be enough to consume through my lifetime…
What I’d really like to “get” is a chypre, which I don’t think I’ve ever had a proper sniff of. Even if I don’t end up liking it, I want to try it at least!
Hessed–I have never really been a chypre person myself, but I do have a few of them. If you would like some samples, I could send you some. If you see this and you are interested, email me at Roses_50 at yahoo dot com. I should warn you, the chypre category is probably the most challenging to appreciate (I’m talking about classic chypres, not the “modern chypre” variety). For the most part, they are not really “pretty” scents, so don’t be surprised if you don’t like them at all.
Hessed: It can be hard to find in a store, but a very fine chypre is Jean Louis Scherrer. It’s also called #1 because it was the first of his line. When I first began my personal odyssey into scent, I really wanted to explore chypres and made my first purchase of Cristalle, which in the end, is too sharp and bitter for me. I now have several chypres of the non-classic vein (Jolie Madame, Silences, Dioressence and Diorella), but the Scherrer is really lovely. Also, TPC has Chypre bundles, which is where I started. I can’t say I liked any of them (except Mitsouko – which took some time), but it’s a good way to learn…also the vintage Vent Vert is a thousand times nicer than the recent formulation. It’s starts with that green galbanum bite, but that quickly fades away.
Oops, replied to the wrong place….
Just jumping in on this one hessed. I am a newbie too and some very kind cello NST’ers sent me some classic samples and I feel the same as you! I am a bit intimidated by them as I don’t think my nose is really developed at all in picking out the different notes and sometimes I gunk the classics are too rich and “old” for me… But I read the reviews in my perfume A-Z and think I must be missing something. This isn’t helped much as my boyfriend seems more keen on modern scents on me and has said that some scents are too “old lady”….
So, I am currently testing out the by kilian range as I happened to get all the samples and they have a nice modern edge to them I think and I seem to be getting a pattern that I love calice Becker. I am just taking my sampling steady and alternating testing with some of my favourite scents to ease myself in! Will be checking out these links, thanks!
My predictive text has clearly lost the plot – thanks apple! Hopefully what I was trying to say makes sense!!!
Hi JEN5ARAH!
haha- boyfriends don’t really help in general. When I was testing Carnal Flower from Frederic Malle my bf said “did you spray Dior’s Poison or something? You smell like my mom and her buddies!”…eh… thank god I didn’t really love Carnal Flower… smelling like a bf’s mom (and her friends) is not sexy.
I liked some of BK’s perfumes, but none of them really seemed “me” or drew me in completely. That said, I’ve not found any I entirely hated either.
Haha! “essence of boyfriends mother” – not a great smell! Good luck with your testing. I have decided to stick with contemporary and mainstream for now and I am saving my classics.
So true that tastes change and noses develop — if you get samples of the classics, hang onto them for a bit even if you don’t love them, and retry them periodically until you’re SURE you don’t love ’em. That said, even a storied classic is just another perfume, and if you like a modern department store scent better than vintage Mitsouko, don’t worry about it — no point torturing yourself unless you’re doing your doctoral dissertation on perfume!
Hi everyone!
I’d like to find one happy home for some perfumes that haven’t worked for me. I plan to just pack it all in one box, but I need a recipient. I enjoy reading NST, and hope someone reading would enjoy these perfumes. I don’t belong to MUA, and I don’t want to swap, just to send.
They are:
Cuir de Lancome (full bottle)
Balmain Jolie Madame (1/2 bottle)
Minis: Caron 3rd Man, Body Shop White Musk, Kenzo Ca sent Beau, Eau de Rochas, Miss Dior
Samples: many, including Chanel Bois Des Iles, Stephen Jones CdG, and many Montales and Rosines
None of the above would be rare or vintage to the best of my knowledge.
Here is my email if you’d like this box: [ed note: removed email] I’ll ship (I’ll pay) to anywhere in the US. First-come, first-served. Thanks very much!
huh, how generous you are!
lucky somebaby out there in the US
Hi again!
I’ve already received a bunch of emails, and I’m sure my perfumes will have a happy home. I’ll respond to the emails I’ve received. Thanks again!
WOW that is so very generous! I would l ove to be the recipient(unless someone else has already replied) and will send my email to your email.
Jacinta, I hope it’s ok…I went ahead and removed your email address since you’ve already been contacted. If you want me to put it back, just say!
Is A*men Pure Havane out yet
It’s in stock at my Nordstrom, so yes, available.
yay I’ll go to Nordstrom when I’m home for Spring Break
SOTD: Vintage Rochas Femme.
I finally bit the bullet and ordered a sample from TPC ( after vowing to swear off trying any more vintage anything, since it is a sure road to heartbreak)
And damn it all, Mama LIKE. Sigh. Reminds me a little of TPIM, with a slight hairspray note that somehow seems appropriate. What IS that hairspray note, anyway?
And what do the vintage bottles of Femme look like?
Vintage Femme:
http://paris-le-chat.blogspot.com/2009/08/marcel-rochas-femme-1950.html
I am REALLY falling hard for Iris Ukiyoe. Anyone else feeling it? I’m thinking of bribing myself with a bottle. All A’s this semester, bottle of IU. At first, I wasn’t sure about it, what with it’s fruity buzz with a hairspray nuance. But I sprayed a card with it and used it as a bookmark and now I can’t get enough of it. It’s dewy and floral without a drop of undue sweetness.
SOTD: Just came from work, so nothing yet. Either Shalimar or IU for the evening.
I’m going to have to try this, Ol Rait. You say it’s dewy. Does it have a cool or cold feeling, or would you say it’s more neutral, temperature-wise? (I keep having to remind myself that this one is based on the iris flower, not the root.)
It’s a nice fragrance. I only tested my sample once in December, but I’ll need to give it some more wear. I’d say it trends toward cool, but it’s very much a springy, “greenish” floral set in a somewhat high key (to echo our chat the other day). Definitely not screechy, but “fresh” without being so in the boring, mainstream fragrance way. I hope you get to sample, Haunani.
And ol rait, if you decide to treat yourself, enjoy it! Remember you can always look for single 15ml atomizers on e*bay.
Joe, it does sound like my sort of thing. I will seek a sample!
It’s pretty cool, in a very early-morning kind of way. Maybe I’m just impressionable but the color of the packaging is a perfect fit.
I had a major revelation with my Bois des Iles edt today,everytime that I wore it,it just felt nice but today for some odd reason,I gave myself 2 spritz and was in complete awe!! I finally got the gingerbread note and it was heavenly today as I was hiking the snowy trails.
BdI responds nicely to heavier application.
I also have a decant of this and it never did much for me. I’ve recently fell in love with PG’s Cadjmere and thought I would revisit BdI. Side by side, Cadjmere won hands down. A few days later, did the BdI alone, and thought that I might finally see something to like here. Maybe this one grows on you. It certainly wasn’t love at first spray for me…but it might be like…or even like a whole lot!
If you like that gingerbread note, you might also like Chanel’s Egoiste, which has that note in common with Bois des Iles
Just jumping in on this one hessed. I am a newbie too and some very kind cello NST’ers sent me some classic samples and I feel the same as you! I am a bit intimidated by them as I don’t think my nose is really developed at all in picking out the different notes and sometimes I gunk the classics are too rich and “old” for me… But I read the reviews in my perfume A-Z and think I must be missing something. This isn’t helped much as my boyfriend seems more keen on modern scents on me and has said that some scents are too “old lady”….
So, I am currently testing out the by kilian range as I happened to get all the samples and they have a nice modern edge to them I think and I seem to be getting a pattern that I love calice Becker. I am just taking my sampling steady and alternating testing with some of my favourite scents to ease myself in! Will be checking out these links, thanks!
Jen! Which Bk’s are you favs??
Hi meg, I have tried back to black, liaisons dangereuse and beyond love so far and I have to say I think back to black is my favourite. It is bit like anything I have smelled before and it is not what I would usually go for in terms of notes, I just fond it so unusual and interesting and I love the sweet honey smell. Usually i like patch/Rose fragrances, so this was a surprise to me. I also liked the other too and I like the way these fragrances seem to “waft” during the day and o just get a wave of the fragrance as I move!
How about you? Which ones do you like?
I have still only sampled Back to Black, but I think it is love for sure. I haven’t worn anything else since I’ve gotten it (including brand new shiny bottles!), and I have gone through it faster than any other sample. I agree with the sillage! It seems to oscillate between skin scent and quite diffusive. I love the boozy-cherry beginning and the delicious honeyed dry down that seems to go forever.
In short, it has moved to the top of my buy list. I think the most economical way for me to do acquire some is the travel refills..but it seems like I would have to dap it on then and I really want to experience this baby sprayed.
Oooh! You are making me want to wear it today!! I just have a 2ml sample, which is a spray, but obviously not that easy to use. They have the range in Harvey Nichols in London where I picked up the samples – you can spritz from the bottle in there! Beyond love is the tuberose one – it is an unusual smell again but I think I do like it. I don’t think I could ever justify buying one of these though!!! We’ll see….
Hi meg, I have tried back to black, liaisons dangereuse and beyond love so far and I have to say I think back to black is my favourite. It is bit like anything I have smelled before and it is not what I would usually go for in terms of notes, I just fond it so unusual and interesting and I love the sweet honey smell. Usually i like patch/Rose fragrances, so this was a surprise to me. I also liked the other too and I like the way these fragrances seem to “waft” during the day and o just get a wave of the fragrance as I move!
How about you? Which ones do you like?
Also love the CB BKs, jen5arah!
Hi there! Which is your favourite? I also love j’adore which is calice Becker too, so there is a pattern developing!
Indeed, I loved the original 1999 J’Adore, too. CB also did two of my fav cheap thrills, the 1999 Ines de la Fressange (octagonal bottle with silvery cap) and Cuir de Lancome (sharing credits with another nose).
For fall, I love Liaisons Dangereuses, which LT considers a rose version of J’Adore. For summer, I love the joyful tuberose Beyond Love. Back to Black is nice, and I LOVE Pure Oud and Rose Oud. The lavender-absinthe one, Taste of Heaven, is also good – I should try that one again this spring.
Oh, I read on one of the blogs about the reformulation of j’adore and the description of the original! I so want to smell it!! Not sure if I can get it anywhere. I just have a sample of the current one. I will have to hunt out those other two you mention. I must try Rose oud – I do like Rose fragrances!
I picked up a bottle of JM Assam and Grapefruit- tested it last week and couldn’t stop thinking it will be perfect for SPRING! Which is HERE! (In south TX) Sniffed again today and now its mine
Yum 
Down here in South Texas too. I do wish winter hadn’t fled so quickly.
Assam & Grapefruit sounds nice
Helen, I tested it last week and I’m not sure how I like it. I liked the Earl Grey & Cucumber more than I expected, also, and the Sweet Milk was actually very unusual and comforting. I’m kind of bummed that Saks told me they didn’t have (or that JM didn’t “do”) samples for those. I’d like to spend a little more time before committing, even though they’re only $55 for 30ml. I may get the Sweet Milk only because it’s different than anything I own. I may go for Ava Luxe Milk instead.
Joe, my Nordies said the same thing! I agree with you about the Sweet Milk. It has a caramel-condensed milk feel that is unusual and comforting, but I’d be interested to really try it and see if it “sours” after a while. Also, my limited experience with JM is that they don’t last nearly long enough for my taste. . .only an hour or so on my skin, which means even if I like it, I’m not sure it’s worth a bottle.
My local Neiman Marcus now keeps empty vials & outer cardboard boxes at the JM counter…they say “Jo Malone” right on the boxes, so they’re clearly from the brand. So I asked if they had a sample of the milk, and they said no, and I asked if they would make me one using an empty vial I had with me, and they said oh, we have empty vials. LOL!
Is that the King of Prussia branch?
Yep!
I didn’t play close attention to the Sweet Milk- it was a tad sweet on the blotter- but the SA said it was the main blender to sweeten them up…I was surprised at how much I like the A&G since I am not a big grapefruit fan. I liked the Earl Grey too (but I drink EG a lot and so I get enough out of smelling my tea…has anyone had the orange blossom tea at starbucks- it is delish and smells heavenly!)
BTW- I tested Bronze Goddess Soleil today and was not blown away. And I tested Aftelier Candide and am pretty smitten….keep sniffin my hand…
Winter seems to be broken and spring seems to be coming. I’ve been testing all day, and I keep jonesing for a tropical warm coconutty thing, not at all my usual style. I keep trying all the spring florals, soliflores, chypres, but it’s a full on suntan lotion I seem to crave. Testing some Memo samples. I think they’re hauting me because they aren’t available in the US and the on-line site doesn’t ship to the US. It’s always like that., it seems. The MDCI keep impressing me. Peche Cardinal is a huge success on me.
Maybe tomorrow I’ll lumber into my ancient mall’s Macy’s and Sephora in desperation.
One of my odd testing successes is Hilde Soliani’s CiocoSpesizissimo. Notes listed as spices, basil, pepper, white chocolate, dark chocolate wood. It definitely has a green tomato note. All sounds dreadful but the green cuts the soft white chocolate and I’m very happy with it. The drydown is really pleasant and warm. Her Il Tulipano is crazy good.
I think LuckyScent is going to end up owning my car at the rate I’m going, but thank goodness for them.
Hilde Soliani’s Bell’Antonio smells just like my mother’s coat ~___~
Oh, I tried that Solani (CiocoSpesizissimo) last year and really liked it. More of a summer scent to my nose, though. Also, there’s Goutal the has the same feeling (Eu Sud?), and Ninfeo Mio has the same “tone” as well. But are easier on the wallet as well
Interesting, I need to sample Hilde Solani.
I finally tried 100% Love by S-Perfumes, which smells like a delicious raspberry chocolate truffle to me. It’s supposed to be chocolate and rose, but I get raspberry or cassis rather than rose.
Luckyscent would own my car, too, except that I don’t drive and ebay beat them to it.
Oh, and I found out I LOATH Vetiver Tonka. After 10 minutes I feel like I’ve been smoking in a bar all night and fell asleep on an ashtay. I could never wear this in public because everyone would think I was a chain smoker. I was having to hide from the neighbor when I went out for a walk in case she could smell me.
Now I’m terrified of vetivers.
that sounds good to me, who makes it?
and I suppose I wouldn’t recommend Bell’Antonio XD
Oh, no! Don’t judge other vetivers on this experience! Although I haven’t smelled this particular one, my experience is that there are a lot of *smoke free* vetivers. In fact, they often come across “soapy” to my nose. I own a bottle of Guerlain Vetiver, and right or not, I consider it a “classic” vetiver. Might be worth a sniff to see if you still feel like a chain smoker!
Not all vetivers are smoky, not by any means.
The vetiver? It’s the Hermessence Vetiver Tonka that everyone else in the world is enthralled with. — Yuck. Chain-smoking barfly on me.
Finally ordered Mecca Balsam – which I adore – and a bunch of samples from La Via del Profumo, which is what I’m testing this weekend. Hindu Kush is really nice – a high altitude cousin of Tauer’s L’Air du Desert Marocain. Lake Blossom is a soothing floral with what smells like ginger root to me (that’s not listed on the website though – I may be misinterpreting another note).
I’ve heard nice things about the Hindu Kush, I’ll have to get some.
Just returned from Saturday chores and wanted to share a “compliment” story!
While I was at the grocery store, I ran into a friend who works there and said I smelled “edible.’ While she was helping an actual paying customer, she commented to him that I smelled delicious. He leaned over, fluttered his eyes, and asked if I wouldn’t mind going to his place to sleep on his pillow just to leave some of my scent on it for him to enjoy!
(And what, you ask, am I wearing? Amouage Memoir, which sadly it looks like I need to save up for!)
: DDDDD
It is so nice to get compliments on your perfume! Sometimes after long periods without I think, hmm… I must not be spraying enough. But that way lies madness. Or, you are always sticking your wrist after your long-suffering partner or family’s nose and it just doesn’t feel the same as the spontaneous compliment from a stranger.
What a great story! You DO get what you pay for with many of the Amouages.
I am very non-vintage and up-to-the-minute tonight in Smell Bent Mots Verts – gorgeous hyacinth with a surprising and fresh twist of rhubarb up top. The whole Dada line is very fun – I will be buying two or three of them.
Oh, that sounds so nice!
Has anyone smelled Miller et Bertaux Om? Is it sweet or dry?
It is definitely dry!
It sounds like it would be pretty good.
It was a lovely spring day today in Los Angeles and I’m thinking about what I want to wear (ie. what I want to BUY) to usher in the new season. We may have a few more days of rain and coolness in the near future, but spring is at our doorstep. I’ve been considering Ormonde Jayne’s Champaca. I already own a boatful of Lilly of the Valley scents, which are typically associated with spring, so no need to go in that direction. I’d love to hear ideas….
It really was beautiful today (Santa Barbara here) and totally spring.
It’s hard to recommend without knowing the notes that work best for you, but if you like Champaca, you might want to try OJ Frangipani. Things that I find very springlike are Annick Goutal Grand Amour & Eau d’Italie Au Lac — both sort of based around hyacinth and green. Also last year’s new Serge, Bas de Soie, is similar. The new Lorenzo Villoresi Iperborea is a really interesting floral melange. You may want to sample the new Bond No 9 Madison Square Park also, a grassy springy floral.
Hi Joe! Thanks for your suggestions. I can’t really put my finger on what I’m wanting. There’s something about OJ Champaca that I’m really liking, but her Frangipani smells like 7-Up to me (isn’t that odd?) I don’t think I’m looking for anything green (I own some nice greenies, tho). I guess there’s a heady floral aspect to Champaca that I’m responding to. There’s a “thickness” to it that would make is unwearable in the summer (for me, that is), but a brightness to it that makes it sing “it’s spring!” How’s that for helpful? Thick and bright
I’m wearing DK Gold on my other arm and that’s thick and sweet…Etro Heliotrope on hand and that’s thin and sweet and yet warm, although cool going on. Antonia by Puredistance on my wrist and damn if it doesn’t smell exactly like Chamade (green and floral). Keep ’em coming!
I finally bought OJ Champaca, KRL – I agree there is something particularly lovely about it. I’m also considering PdN Violette in Love for spring. Oh, and I’ve only tested it once, but TDC de Bachmakov seemed quite amazing.
I’ve been thinking about getting another sample of de Bachmakov. I remember it being very LOV (which I have so many of) after the initial shiso leaf…my Champaca sample is almost gone….:(
Anyone want to play “Smell a-alikes”? I’ll start:
Puredistance Antonia & Chamade.
Solange Cosmic & Dioressence.
Xerjoff Ibitira and Divine l’Ame Soeur
I finally sampled Acqua di Parma Profumo (a decant of the original) and was surprised to find that is smelled so much like a vintage chypre, in particular, the plush dry-down of a number of mid-century scents.
Yeah best find for me ever, my Mom found some vintage Halston Woman for $2 at a antique store. Recently bought Carla Fracci Giselle, its too light and delicate though beautiful ylang/ floral blend. Wonder if hot summer days are the best not chilly spring weather. Thats a question if its not too late in the thread and weekend what are some good middling cheap thrills like amazing/ beautiful/ smells more expensive that it is perfumes you can get for under $40 dollars on discounters? My favorites have been Bvgari Black, Sira de Indes- (amarinthine’s trashier sister, Gres Cabaret- (Paestum rose’s quiet sister), and the recent purchase Giselle.
As a fellow bargain shopper, I have been asking this question to myself as well! The only one I’ve found is Bulgari Omnia, which I don’t adore, but I get compliments on. I’m jealous you found Black at a discounter! I’ve been looking for an affordable FB!
Giselle was one of those under-the-radar perfumes and I was sorry to hear it was discontinued.
A few months ago, I picked up Ellen Tracy at TJ Maxx…quite nice. More of an average, non-offensive kind of perfume but sometimes that’s perfect.
With Love…Hilary Duff is well done and inexpensive as is Barbara Bui.
My most recent discounter success has been Bal a Versailles!
Hi all! I’ve been checking in to this site for several months but finally signed in to post a question. I’ve loved scents since a child, but recently (30 y/o) have been getting into more niche fragrances and exploring different lines. As such, I’ve been accumulating a bunch of samples from the perfumed court and fragrancenet and I don’t want to hold onto the ones that aren’t for me… Any advice on where I can swap these or offer to fellow fragrance-lovers? TIA!
You can swap with other perfume lovers at:
http://www.makeupalley.com
Hi
I have a question. I would like to know which of the most popular perfumes has ginger. I must be a brand that can be found in South America. Thanks in advance
Hi, I’m not sure what is available in S. America. All of these, however, have a ginger note: 5′ O’clock au gigembre (Serge Lutens – gingerbread), Dior homme Sport, Like this (estat libre d’orangier). I’m a bit of a newbie, but I think there are many more!
Thanks Merlin for your answer. I think there are many brands available in LA but in Argentina (my country) only the designer brands are marketed. I am a lady but I’ll try Dior homme Sport.
Thanks again!
Perfumelover, The Dior homme sport was reviewed favourably by Katie Puckrick which is why I tried it. I’m also female (my real name is spelled Merlynn) and though i don’t have this scent I really do like it! So give it a try ( :
Thanks a lot! I’ll do it
Not sure on the availability of these, but L’Artisan’s Coeur de Vetiver Sacree is gingery and I love Demeter’s Gingerale (both are reviewed here on NST).
Hi Odonata9! No availability here!
Thanks
Thanks for the Bois d’Encens suggestions. I’m concerned about the “repackaging” and I think I’ll wait. Maybe I’ll buy it in Europe when I’m there. High-end perfumes are often less expensive there, though it does depend on the xrate. Anyway, I tried the last of my L’Air du Desert Marocain sample and now I’m getting whiffs of this gorgeous incense with some sweeter note. Did it mix with my lotion? Now I’m all confused and back to square one on incense; maybe I’ll wait ’til next fall/winter to commit.
Does anyone have Kelly Caleche as Extrait?
I have both EdT and EdP and would love the Extrait also, I guess it is different again to the others, but it got really expensive so if it is just an emphasized EdP I better save my money.
Thank you!
I also have the EdT & EdP, never tried the Extrait & sort of forgot they made one!
I ordered the four new Keiko Mecheri samples from Luckyscent. The only one I’m really liking this weekend has been Isle Lointaines. There’s something matronly about the opening (gardenia maybe?) that fades in about 15 minutes down to a tropical sweet middle. Even after several hand washings I can still find it on my fore arm. I don’t think I would splurge for the full size (I’m still pining for L’Artisan’s Nuit de Tubereuse) but it’s made for a fun weekend of sampling.
Just b/c you mentioned Keiko M- I am a fan but have only tried a few. One that was totally off my radar that I sniffed the other day- Gourmandises- was lovely!
I will getting ready to go to work. I will be wearing my Sweet Oriental Dream today. I would love to get my hands on some other Montales: Pure Gold, Jasmin Full, Musk to Musk. Also I am dying to try a fragrance by Montale that’s totally not available in the US, as far as I heard it was just an experimental perfume: Poire, or Poire Sauvages. I love pears and I am just so dying to see what it smells like.