The usual open thread poll routine: talk about anything you like — the perfume you’re wearing today, the perfume you're saving your pennies for, your last great perfume swap, whatever.
Or, ask a question about fragrance, then see if anyone else has asked a question that you can answer…
Note: image is La Tour Eiffel [cropped] by Tallapragada at flickr; some rights reserved.
Hello everyone, I’m sure you all smell lovely.
After a week of scorching hot weaher we have a little colder day with occasional rain. I’m wearing Dsquared2 Potion, it had a long break because it works best on colder days, and those didn’t happen often lately.
Currently I slowed down with buying samples and bottles, saving money to buy my first Parfum d’Empire bottle, Iskander. I’ll have it here in November. And later I’m planning to purchase few more from the line, I’m in love with this perfume house!
Question time! Did you ever had a perfume crush? If yes that would be awesome if you joined the discussion on my blog, the more the merrier.
PS. Robin, that’s a gorgeous photo!
Hi Lucas,
That is a great idea about slowing down with samples. I am waiting for yet another set! I am forming an idea of which scents I’d like to purchase and I really ought to follow your lead and save up.
I will look up your blog!
Samples are quite expensive, especially when you buy 5, 10 or more the cost adds up, resisting temptation for a few months allow to purchase a great bottle, so I save, dreaming about Iskander.
What sample set are you waiting for?
Well, it’s not a set in itself, but I’ve ordered from tpc: Seville a l’Aube (loved the spritz I got at Bendel), Cologne Bigarade (loved the spritz I got at Barney’s), Bandit (read about this one in the blogs) and Fracas (I’ve always been intrigued by this one but have never sampled this on my skin).
I’m definitely getting picky about the samples, so this will probably be the last for a while!
I see, you chose the interesting ones. And funny thing, I’m also waiting for a sample of Fracas.
Hi Lucase -Whatever is a perfume crush? You mean a short-lived infatuation with a fragrance?
That’s exactly it. By perfume crush I mean short-lived infatuation with a scent, just like you described it.
Hi Lucas. I’m slowing down with the samples for a bit too. I did order one tiny little one the other day but other than that I want to use up or give away most of the ones I have. There’s only so much space to store these things.
It’s good to slow down a little bit. That gives a chance to explore samples that we have, use some, swap them or re-gift.
Almost everything I own! I become obsessed, buy, use for a month or two, then move on. The truly spectacular ones I come back to again & again, for the fleeting loves, into the swap/sample-extra trunk they go.
Sounds like you don’t regret a single one. Good for you!
I bought a mini bottle of vintage Lauren in parfum on ebay. It arrived yesterday and am wearing it today–divine!
Nice, congrats!
Was that the square red bottle? I really loved that one, it was one of my first real perfumes, along with Sung, Dune and Emeraude (not sure of the spelling, I’ve had a screaming migraine since midafternoon yesterday. Hurts to think!)
I noticed that Robn has posted that Seville a l’Aube is now available at aedes.com! That’s a much earlier arrival to the US than expected, no?
It’s available as a pre-order, shipping in September, same as at LuckyScent. I can’t wait to get mine!
Thanks — I didn’t even notice it was pre-order!
Oh ok, I mustn’t get too excited!
No SOTD yet for me. I have to be careful with what I use today because I am going to a wake. I have not seen the deceased in many years but see his wife occasionally on my commute home from work. They have 2 teen-aged daughters. In any case, while I do not want to go scentless, I also do not want a scent associated with sadness nor do I want anything that may be too strong as to offend anyone. I’ll probably use Tokyo Milk Dark Excess – I usually layer it with something else so wearing it by itself would hopefully prevent a scent memory.
I kind of feel guilty about having this selfish concern, but hey, this is the beauty of the Internet.
Oh, these are things that go through our minds, right? Hmm, I think I would just go scentless, maybe carry along something for after.
Thanks for the suggestion, joolz2u. I ended up going somewhat scentless. I used L’Occitane The Vert shower gel as a shampoo and that left a little bit of scent.
Interesting! I’ve never thought about using shower gel as shampoo! Sounds like it did the trick.
It’s something we all think about, for sure. Not selfish.
I agree, not selfish. Scent is a huge part of our lives, but we also need to be thoughtful about others – at the office or the theater, in hospitals and at sad or difficult times. Even at happy ones – we don’t want to upstage a bride , for example!
This week it’s been Amouage mostly (trying to get my head around Interlude Woman among other things). SOTD is ELDO Bijou Romantique though, perfect with lazy day and sunny weather.
Hi Eva, I really liked Amouage Interlude Woman. It was really twisted, surprising and unexpected. Better than Interlude Man. But still I’d rather have Lyric.
I have a sample of Lyric Woman, but didn’t warm to it, I think it was the overripe fruit note which I never like in a perfume. I know many love it though.
My favorite Amouage is Epic Woman, followed by Opus III, Memoir Woman and now Interlude Woman as well.
I’ve been on an iris and galbanum and chypre kick lately. Trying to find perfumes that I like as much as I like vintage No.19, 31 rue Cambon and 28 La Pausa. I sincerely wish the exclusive line had matching body products, especially the La Pausa, to help with the longevity. I tried PG Cuir d’Iris and Iris Oriental and I’m looking forward to finding more iris and galbanum based scents to try. I also got a sample of Coty Chypre from StC and I’m trying to find a bottle of this on evil bay. But I have to admit I do not have good luck in picking auctions that turn out to be the real deal. The big fall release I’m saving my pennies for is SL Santal Majascule.
I love chyre. I don’t have any to recommend, sorry, but I wondered about evil bay as well. Are there sellers that are recommended?
Tatiana, I’m an iris and chypre lover too. Did you try Keiko Mecheri Iris Pourpre or Iris d’Argent? Both are good iris chypres.
Lucasai, no I haven’t tried those two. Keiko Mecheri hasn’t really been on my radar. I will seek out some sample and try them. Thanks for the recommendations! And good luck with your new blog. I enjoy reading it. Will you continue to post once you resume your studies this fall?
Yes, I will keep writing once I return to the university this fall, but I guess posts will appear less frequently. Now it’s two or three per week, so it will be one or two per week during the university year.
Have you tried Maison Martin Margiela (untitled)? It’s one of my favourites, and it features galbanum prominently.
I love (love!) this one, though I don’t think of it as an iris scent. I’m a huge fan of greens and iris perfumes, so maybe you should try it even though I don’t think iris is listed as a note.
Have you tried Cuir de Russie? Since it’s a Chanel AND an iris, the style might be perfect for you. It’s my HG.
Seconding Cuir de Russie. Isn’t that one glorious?!
I have Cuir de Russie in extrait. (Christmas gift from my lovely DH) I find the extrait very potent, so it’s hard for me to wear during warm weather. Perhaps I should invest in a bottle of the EdT, too?
You’re asking the wrong person if you want to save money!
I own both, and I find the edt to be perfect in hot weather. I call the parfum the edt with a Guerlainade base.
Kady, yes, I’ve tried MMM Untitled and love it very much. Thanks.
Prada Infusion d’Iris Absolue comes to mind, it is wonderful and I am not a fan of the original Infusion d’Iris. If you like Rue Cambon try also Promesse de L’Aube by Parfums MDCI it’s similar but with less amber to my nose.
Prada Infusion d’Iris Absolue is great. And it seems to be different than it’s mother. For me absolue is a little bit more earthy/rooty and mch deeper. Do you get that too Cybele?
To me it’s less soapy, flat, and cold than the original due to a subtle golden amber note that deepens it. As you mention Lucas, it might be rounder due to a stronger earthiness as well.
And I agree with you that it’s colder.
I find the original colder and I agree with Merlin below that it smells somehow mean.
Tatiana, Chanel sent out a mailer today to introduce the new Les Exclusifs “Fresh Body Cream”. It’s meant to be used for layering your Exclusifs to make it last a little longer – there’s a preview on Chanel.com.
I’m hoping they have this in Glasgow, as I’m going shopping in the city tomorrow and will give it a try if I see it.
I also find spritzing La Pausa in my hair helps it last all day…
Wow, Kizzers thanks for the heads up on the body cream. I just went over to the Chanel site to check it out. If it coordinates well with more than one Exclusif, than it may be worth it.
I love iris and leather too. No. 19 is one of my absolute favorites, and I’ve never even smelled the vintage. You’ve probably tried it, but how about Bottega Veneta? I thought it was quite nice at first, but I was sort of unimpressed. I got a large sample, though, and over many wearings it has really found a place as a quieter, beautiful scent that is appropriate for many occasions where a bigger perfume doesn’t fit the bill. Do you like Cuir de Russie?
I have Bottega Veneta. It’s one of my comfort scents.
Tatiana, you might consider trying Annick Goutal Heure Exquise. It’s a galbanum-iris scent, but with a warmer and softer feel than (say) No. 19. I recently tried it myself, and I’m not sure if it’s quite my style but I did think it was very nicely done.
I didn’t realize AG Heure Exquise was still available anywhere. I know it comes in an EdT and EdP, do you prefer one over the other?
I think the EdP (rosier, IMO) is hard to come by but the EdT is easier to find. Both are good.
I have a 2 mL sample of the EDT. Not sure I’ve seen the EDP anywhere, but I’m not as knowledgeable about the Goutal line as some others on here.
I just want to say thank you to everyone who responded to my post. I am overwhelmed by your generosity of ideas and the time you took to respond. Proof, once again, that perfumistas are the best people on the planet. Best fragrant wishes to y’all.
SOTD is … no scent. Palate Cleansing. Had a counter visit last week with a lot of new sniffs. After Robin listed the Diptyque EDPs as new releases, I got to try L’Ombre etc and Philosykos, both very well done and very good additions (the Philosykos EDP is both creamier and – :O – FLORAL!). Also the clear but black-tinted glass works with the new oval bottle design (having now seen them in person I don’t like the clear EDT bottles tho).
Speaking of bottle design, also got to sniff
Alien Essence Absolute
Gucci Premiere
Marc Jacobs Dot
Lady Gaga Fame
I feel so up-to-the-minute informed now!
You are way more up-to-the-minute than I am!
LOL I’m sure this won’t last for long!
Was surprised that Gucci Premiere was out. Hadn’t heard about it beyond the Blake Lively video. The tester literally says “woody musky” for the notes. And that’s literally how it smells.
I don’t know….I never catch up anymore.
Nice when the description matches the scent
Yes, but “woody musky” is both vague and specific!
True — but at least it didn’t turn out to be a fruity floral
I sniffed this the other day and took home a small sample. I like it better than I thought I would, Gucci not being a house I’ve had a lot of success with. It IS woody-musky, which is probably why I like it! Not FBW, certainly, but a nice effort.
Agree! Haven’t tried it on skin yet – I got a small sample too
– but it’s better than you’d expect!
We just returned from our summer vacation (Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, and Nebraska). Among all the things we saw and did (four state capitols, the Iowa State Fair, the Omaha zoo, the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Price Tower, the Little House on the Prairie Museum, and so forth) there was one memorable perfume-related experience in Kansas City.
The Arabia was a Missouri River sidewheel steamboat that in September of 1856 hit a snag and sank within minutes. All of the passengers and crew survived, but the boat and all her cargo were lost. Multiple attempts at salvaging it failed, and it remained buried until it was excavated in the winter of 1988-89, from under 65 feet of mud, silt, and water in the middle of a Kansas cornfield, the river having changed course since the sinking. Thousands of items were recovered in a remarkable state of preservation, including several bottles of perfume, which still retained their scent. All of the recovered items, including parts of the boat itself, are on display at the Steamboat Arabia Museum in Kansas City, MO. How I would have loved to be able to get a whiff of that perfume! Really, the entire museum is fascinating for the glimpse it provides into mid-19th century life, and is very much worth considering if you are going to be in the KC area.
That sounds like a really wonderful trip! I would love to go to the Little House museum.
It was a wonderful trip. We really are into Americana, and that is what this vacation was all about. I read all of the Little House books as a child, so I appreciated an opportunity to see the museum. The LHotP museum is sort of near Independence, Kansas, and is not a museum in the traditional sense (i.e., a building with exhibits of artifacts and such). It is collection of buildings, some authentic and some replicas, laid out on the actual homesite of the Ingalls family, to show what life was like in that era. The cabin is a replica, but the syle, size, construction, an furnishings are typical of the pioneer cabins of the place and time. The location is far enough away from any town to give you a fair sense of what it would have been like to live on the prairie miles from the next nearest neighbors. There is a one-room schoolhouse that is an authentic schoolhouse from the 1870s and an authentic period post office. There is no set admission charge, although they do welcome donations. The visitor’s center has photos of the family and other helpful items, such as maps showing the routes of the Ingalls family’s travels. They have a gift shop (naturally) selling items not particularly related to the Ingalls family (coffee mugs, soap, lotions), but I did appreciate that the items are made by local craftspeople in Kansas, and not the usual mass-produced made-in-China dreck.
That sounds really nice. I loved those books. I have driven cross country 4 times now, stopping at like places, but I’ve always done the southern route — hope to do the northern route when my son is old enough to drive.
50 Roses, the museum owners did a gas chromatography analysis of the perfume, and they sell it in their gift shop. I don’t know enough about GCA to know whether it results in an accurate “smell” reproduction, but the modern rendition smells very modern to me. It’s an abstract smoky floral that reminds me a tiny bit of Mitsouko without the peach, if that makes sense. I’m kicking myself now because the last time I was in the museum (which was a couple of years ago) I had not yet become obsessed with vintage / historic perfume so I didn’t buy a bottle. You can get it online, though, if you’re interested. I just can’t remember enough about it to know whether I can recommend it or not. The fact that I didn’t buy a bottle makes me think it didn’t overwhelm me.
I wish I knew more about the modern repro of that perfume–how accurate it is, what kinds of ingredients they used to compose it, etc. It’s not too expensive so it might be worth a try.
Hi, 50! Did you get past any of the floriculture competitions while you were here for the fair? They had some absolutely beautiful entries this year.
Sounds like a wonderful vacation! Thanks for sharing, Roses. You make sure you holler at me if you all ever end up exploring Americana in Kentucky!
I am wearing Kismet. Anyone ever even heard of it? It was my mother’s kitchy old bottle with the turret as a cap, and the scent is still true after 30 years. I’m waiting on my first internet purchase of vintage My Sin; not the reformulated one (which did not create a single spark of recognition and the nose never forgets). Those reformulations are so disappointing so beware.
Was that the Lubin Kismet?
This bottle is from Martin Kaye Distributors NY, NY. The newer version of the label that I’ve seen online has a harem-esque beauty but this is the minaret top or turret top with that same symbol on a black and tan paper label that wraps around the cylindrical bottle. I wonder if that newer look is also a reformulation.
Interesting! I don’t know that one.
SOTD is a homemade concoction (jasmine and amber attars with bergamot, frankincense, vetiver, and just a touch of patchouli). I think I went just a little bit heavier on the vetiver than I intended, but I like vetiver so it’s ok.
Vetiver is so easy to pick out that it is also easy to overdo. A little goes along way! That combo sounds nice, though.
I’m still pre-shower after spending the morning cleaning the bathrooms, and I’m wearing the Body Shop pink grapefruit body mist and lotion. I tend to go with cheap & cheerful citrus scents when I’m doing chores; my other go-tos are BBW White Citrus and their “aromatherapy” energy lemon zest spray.
My boyfriend is cooking for me tonight, so I’ll wear one of his favourites from my collection – maybe Bottega Veneta or Dune. Or perhaps, if I’m in the mood, Gucci Rush.
Oh, and I meant to add the big release I’m saving my pennies for is the Mugler Cuir collection. I’m pretty sure I’m going to need the leather version of Angel, and possibly Womanity.
I’m looking forward tot hat leather Angel, myself.
Me too! I rarely care about upcoming releases too much. At least they’re almost guaranteed to be interesting, right?
The perfume I’m saving up for is Amouage Dia Woman. I recently acquired two minis and am most of the way through the first one, so I think a FB is in order. I am a little dismayed, though–I found it on Bergdorf Goodman’s website, and I have almost enough reward points on one of my credit cards to get a gift card that would cover most of the price of a bottle. When I checked back yesterday, however, BG’s site lists the Dia Woman and “unavailable”. Does anyone know if this is just a matter of being temporarily out of stock, or are they not going to carry this line anymore?
I love Dia! I managed to pick up a bottle for a really good price a few weeks ago having lusted after it for a good 3 years or so. Hope you get yours soon.
SOTD is Bandit. Since I just paid for OJ Tiare last week I shouldn’t really be thinking about buying more perfume. I’ve been eyeing up L’Eau d’Hiver for a while now but, thinking sensibly, I can probably wait until spring since that’s when I tend to wear it. However, I realised that Le Labo do 15ml bottles and that By Kilian travel sets are rather reasonably priced (£1 per 1ml) which got me thinking of Patchouli 24 and Prelude to Love. How long until Christmas?
Oh and I finally got a Kindle! A couple of months ago I asked for people’s opinions here and most were enthusiastic so I went for it and I’m spending the weekend trolling Amazon for things I want to read.
Abyss, I just ordered a sample of L’eau d’Hiver. It’s sounds like something i’d love.
Where have you found 15ml Le Labos available?
Oh, I hope you like L’Eau d’Hiver.
Le Labo’s own website has the 15ml bottles. They are terrible value as far as price per ml is concerned but it’s still nice to have the option of something smaller than the usual 50ml.
I have a boatload of classic adventure and sci-fi on my fire, so if you want to borrow something along those lines, just let me know!
Congratulations on your Kindle! I think I’m one of those “enthusiastic responders” as I love mine. Let us know what books you go for, and don’t forget that most of the classics, which are out of copyright, are free on Kindle.
Ohhhhh! Where can I find these travel sets in USA?
Wearing Tom Ford: Tobacco Vanille. Just bought a 50 ml of it today at Harrod’s. Tomorrow I head to Harvey Nichols to see the launch they’re boasting for Penhaligan’s “Peoneve.”
Share with us your thoughts about Peoneve, OK?
Will do!
Happy weekend folks!
SOTD is Kenzo Madly EDP.
When I tested it recently I felt it was similar to Kenzo UFO, but on testing them both side by side, the UFO is much, much drier and less floral.
Madly is softer and prettier, with a sweet edge, and very wearable.
I’m not sure if they’ve been created by the same nose, but you can tell they’re ‘stablemates’.
The Madly EDT on the other hand is a different fruity-floral beast altogether! And not in a good way
0.0 You have UFO? (… jealous)
Hi Lys,
Yes, and I have Patty and March’s review over at the Posse to blame for it!
I was really hoping that Madly would be a clone so that I’d never run out – alas, its very pretty in its own right, but just not quite there …
I find the Kenzo Flower and Amour scents a bit too powdery but that UFO sounds (and looks) gorg. If it were physically available in a store around me I might have succumbed …
Wish Kenzo would go back to full-scale distribution in the US
I’d love to have one week’s topic be to discuss Frederic Malle’s assertion that the market has not generated one classic since 1992’s Angel (see the twitter link in the right sidebar). Since it’s a paraphrase and not a direct quote, not sure about the exact context but given what else was in the article it stood out as a potentially stupid assertion for Malle to make.
Aha…great poll idea, thanks Lys!
Agree! This is a great idea for a poll.
I’m very tempted to buy the new Mona di Orio discovery set but I’m not at all familiar with the line. Is anyone a fan? I’d love to get some opinions, either on the Les Nombres line in general or a particular fragrance. Thanks!
I own the Vanille and the Cuir and they are both fantastic. I have decants of the Musc and Ambre, which I have not explored fully. It’s a beautiful line of fragrances.
Thanks, Tama! The Vanille & the Cuir are the ones I’m most intrigued by.
The new rose is a beauty, and I don’t do well with usually. The set is great in person. I am tempted to get it too.
SOTM is Joy edt, but my skin has been so dry lately the scent is almost gone (though the bright side, I can probably wear at least two more perfumes today.)
In other personal perfume news, and this is going to sound really weird to some, I finally “got” J’adore this week. I’ve always hated it on myself, and was mildly annoyed by it on others, but I wore my new coral cardigan with a bright blue top the other day and I needed a bright scent to go with it (I’m a scent –> color synesthete) and my never-used sample of J’adore matched perfectly. I certainly don’t need a bottle, but I always like when I come around on a previously dismissed fragrance, as if it makes me a more tolerant person.
I love when I finally get a scent too. I had trouble with J’adore at first. I was shocked when I finally tried Chanel No.5 and I understood what everyone was talking about. Some I’ve ended up loving, but some I’m just happy that I finally understood what all the fuss was about.
I have to say I’m still on the fence about J’Adore. Sometimes I like it but sometimes I don’t care for it.
The last week or so has been very muggy and I have been dousing myself in The pour un Ete (including at bedtime). It bucketed down today with thunder, lightning and the works and I brought out Seville de l’aube. I adore the scent and it seemed absolutely perfect today.
A L’Artisan for every weather
I just did a nice swap for a bottle of vintage Caron Fleurs de Rocaille Eau de Cologne, which is really lovely. It was an easy swap, because I got to send back a few 10 ml decants of things I have plenty of. I try not to go hog wild on lusting after vintage items, but this kind of fell in my lap. I am kind of lusting after Caron Bellodgia parfum, though.
My latest find was Rochas Absolu – oh my, what a gorgeous ambery thing!! I bought it at first sniff, which is rare. I also split a bottle of vintage Chamade Parfum de Toilette, which I wasn’t sure about until I gave it a good wearing, Gorgeous.
I am out of work, so my perfume pennies must be spent not at all or very wisely. I’m doing okay. Swapping is good. Needless to say, my quarterly spending will be a bit down from where I have been!!
Same here…trying not to lust after vintage! But sounds like you got a good deal.
I missed that you are out of work — so sorry!
Chamade PdT is so interesting – I think it morphs more than some of the other concentrations I’ve tried. Maybe it’s that the galbanum-aldehyde top is SO cold-shoulder, and then it takes that turn toward you and leans in for a kiss…
I also enjoy Absolu — especially nice for snuggling up with warm drinks by the fireplace on rainy or chilly weekends. And sexy as all get-out, too.
It’s a beautiful bright breezy day here in Northern California. I’ve been learning about perfume recently and love this blog.
I’ve been thinking about my earliest perfume memories. My aunt’s Taboo( I think that’s what it was called) comes to mind. Then when I was a teenager I worked at a lingerie store in SF and they sold this line which at that time was called The Body Shop, and is now called Terra Nova. I remember the rep coming in to the store and telling me they were changing the name because ” this company in England bought the rights to the name” lol. That was back in 1986 or so. I loved their Rain and China Rain and their bubble baths. I haven’t seen it in years but called them in Berkely a couple weeks ago- they sell them in the town next to me so I’m going to get a bottle and revisit China Rain.
When I was traveling years ago the hotel I was staying at had Bulgari green tea soap and shampoo and I loved it. It’s the only perfume I’ve ever worn somewhat consistently.
I also have Lolita Lempicka ( hardly wear). MaxMara ( don’t like at all).
I’m going to start sampling the perfumes on Robin’s list of 100 must try.
So. That’s me for this Saturday!
Ps. I love home fragrances. I have Mrs Meyers for cleaning and Nancy Boy products out of SF for laundry detergent and linen spray.
Love candles too.
I saw some of the Terra Nova scents in a gift shop recently. I almost bought one actually. I can’t remember the name of it though. The only reason I didn’t get it was they had another line marked down to half price so the bargain hunter in me left with a bottle of one of those.
They had lots of wonderful oils years ago. Looks like they’re still going strong. I’m curious to know what the Rain scents are. Must be a musk of some sort? They also had nice gardenia oils. They’re bubble baths were wonderful.
Terra Nova’s lime-jasmine fragrance is gorgeous, and I’m still kicking myself for not having picked some up in a little boutique in Hawaii last year. I know that China Rain is sold at a small chain called Body Time — there are a few locations in Berkeley and environs, and Body Time is in some way related to Terra Nova, but I’m not clear on the specifics. (Body Time also has an online store, if that helps.)
Saw your comment a few days ago – welcome!
The original Body Shop is now called Body Time, and they’re still around in the Bay Area. Terra Nova is a “sister” line, literally, IIRC.
Can you tell us a bit more about Nancy Boy, Mrs.Rabbit? My mother’s always looking for delicates washes and linen sprays (and I’ve long since given up on giving anything other than very practical gifts, when I remember that gifts are required/expected) and she hasn’t found one that agrees with her. Mrs.Meyers and Good Home Co. She hasn’t found a scent she likes, The Laundress got me called “stupid and silly for paying that price.” (Yes, she’s a real peach when something doesn’t meet with her approval.)
Hi All,
So tired and stressed. Just popping in to hug you all.
Testing 4 of 5 samples I recently ordered, of which I like every one. Not sure if I love any, but I’m pleased that I am starting to order occasional samples that I end up liking, instead of 100 samples of which I only like one.
Hope your weekend is amazing.
For curious people: Testing Lorenzo V Piper Negrum (acquired taste, but once I “got” it…hello!), Caron Narcisse Noir, Huitieme Art Sucre something (reminds me too much of Aomassai though!), The Different Company Un Parfum des Sens et Bois.
Also tested Nasomatto narcotic venus on my knee today (dont ask, I sit with my knees bent close to me while typing), and have to say it is the first white floral I CRAVE.
ION my Dad kindly donated enough for me to be able to get 1000 Flowers Reglisse Noire, which I reviewed positively on my blog – it will be my first “light” scent so I’m excited!
Also, I have stopped reviewing on my blog for a while, or even writing notes. I want to enjoy the perfumes I’m wearing without getting technical and dissecting it. I wonder if anyone else went through a “fed up” phase like mine and decided to go simple?
Yay! For another Reglisse Noire lover. It’s a favorite of mine.
I’ve never gotten too technical with notes. I like to try and pick them out once in a while and I get excited when I think I can smell something in a scent that I hadn’t noticed before. I usually try to just enjoy the overall experience. If I overthink it I take the fun out of it. I like what smells good to me and sometimes as long as its does that I don’t care what the notes are.
Yes, I’ve been very anti-white-florals, and ever since doing this simpler sniffing, I am CRAVING them haha!
I will go back to reviewing, but this is nice while I’m so stressed.
Hi Zubi, Reglisse Noir has had so much positive attention I think I need to sample it myself. i was wondering what you mean by ‘light’?
It’s got a sheerness to it, not juicy like fruit juice, but reminds me a lot of licorice tea. Very fragrant, but in a way that’s fine for summer. All my perfumes are thick in texture (I hope this makes sense!), so this is a welcome change.
Happy for you about the Reglisse Noir bottle! And a lovely weekend to you too! Hugs dear!
Lucas! Sorry I hadn’t written to you yet, but you’re getting the sample of Reglisse Noire!
Would you mind waiting a little while for me to get my new decanting stuff? It should be here in about a week. Then I can send you 4 ml of both Gourmand Coquin AND SL Un Bois Vanille 
Of course dear, don’t rush yourself! You know where to find me
I am wearing my new love LOVE today. It is especially beautiful in combination with sea air. I am surprised about myself enjoying it so much, usually I am not that sweet. I guess it works for me because it’s so abstract. When trying it in stores it had never interested me enough but now it came to me as a gift and I am smitten.
How nice that you love your gift!
oh, it’s the by Kilian Love, but you must have guessed when I called it sweet.
Hi all. Haven’t posted in ages – work has been busier than its usual busy.
SOTD is Roja Dove Scandal, from a large decant.
I haven’t been sampling as much this summer as I used to – kind of in a pattern lately of wearing 1 or 2 things quite consistently, and just trying to keep up with smelling new releases.
One question I have for everyone – do people have favourite assertive/ I mean business type of scents? What would you wear, for example, to a really important meeting? I started thinking about this in June when I was at the Supreme Court (Canada not US) and thinking about an appropriate scent. I ended up going with just a dab of Mitsouko.
There has been such an outcry about people being allergic to perfume that I never wear it to the office. I’d like to though!
The cynical side of me believes that most of them aren’t allergic and just like to hear themselves complain and get their way.
Yeah, I’m cranky today.
FWIW, Poodle, I tend to agree with you!
Maybe I just haven’t had enough coffee yet this morning…
Me too, Poodle. Working at the newspaper when this little trend of bitchily declaring that “everyone must accomodate ME!” began makes me pretty intolerant of it as a whole. I have a migraine bad enough that I’ve puked in my garbage can twice today, if I can suck it up when the lady wearing the spicy lily perfume on the opposite side of the building walks past to get to the ladies room, so can you, you spoiled little darling!
Like Cybele, below it would be Prada’s IdI. Its my simple favorite mean-business scent!
Oh I adore that Roja Dove. I would have a hard time deciding between it and Unspoken if I were really going to invest in a FB.
For assertive meetings, I think something that gives you a feeling of confidence, but probably not anything that is too floral or skanky. I agree with the other commentator, you don’t want to be setting off someone’s allergies. Maybe something like Jicky… applied gently.
I find Chanel No. 19 to be very refined and poised. It is also very calming to me which I think would be great if you were appearing in front of the Supreme Court!
My suggestion for a confident scent is Hermes Kelly Caleche.
I think your choice of Mitsouko was a good one. Chanel No 19 would be a natural, as would Miss Dior. What about some of the classic Lauders – Private Collection, White Linen, Beautiful? Chanel No 5 EP is good in just about any situation. Chanel’s Coco is one of the ultimate corporate perfumes.
Of course if you are too assertive with your perfume you risk annoying people. Perhaps try parfum strength fragrances? These are good because their beauty gives you confidence but they wear close to the skin. A trick of mine where I want to feel confident but keep my perfume close is to mix a few squirts with a dab or two of unscented lotion in the palm of the hand. Rub gently between palms and then apply to body. I do this with Rochas Femme quite often.
And then there are all the leather fragrances! Maybe keep it simple and elegant with Bottega Veneta, or Cuir de Lancome? Cuir de Russie if you want to be more venturesome.
I agree with your choice of Mitsouko and would also add Chanel’s Cuir de Russie for a business situation.
i think about this one alot. I wouldn’t go with Mitsouko which is a little peachy to me, and peach does not signify strength and Supereme Court lawyer to me. (I also would not wear a peach suit). (On the other hand if you are appearing before the Supreme Court, than you by definition are a Supreme Court hot shot). My choices would be Daim Blond (yes, another leather suggestion) if you feel like you can have a “commanding” scent; otherwise I would go for The Vert, or some other transparent scent. I also like the idea of an extrait, so you feel elegant and succesful without having a high sillage “message” fragrance which might be interpreted by the other people according to their own associations.
Guerlain Vetiver pour Elle, Prada Infusion Iris, Chanel 28, La Pausa.
this was meant as comment for naomi77
A good list.
I like what Poodle said about over thinking perfume notes. It can take fun out of it for me to. I’m wearing a sample of Diptyque Eau Rose today. It’s still really warm here in Southern California. I’m having a rose fetish right now. Loving this one though!
I also agree!
Just recently, I tried Tresor and Opium. I remember that when I was younger I didn’t care for these at all. An older co-worker used to wear Opium everyday and I hated it.
Now, quite a few ahem years later (I know they’ve been reformulated), I don’t mind them. It’s interesting to revisit these scents to see how they work on you.
I put on my Lolita Lempika. I’m not into it. Too powdery for me.
I’ve had the bottle for probably 5 years. Wonder if it’s still good anymore.
Hi MrsRabbit!
Someone here suggested a few weeks back that if you think your perfume has turned, you can pump about 20 or 30 sprays to clear the atomizer’s tube of the old juice in it that is likely to be oxidized, accessing what might still be fresh juice in the rest of the bottle. I tried this last week with a “turned” perfume I had otherwise abandoned and voila it’s actually still good, the liquid in the tube was oxidized but the rest of the bottle smells right. You could try that.
Thank you Lys! I will try that. I have an idea for where too… (the refuse bins which harbor such unfortunate smells!)
Hi all
SOTD is Après l’ondée extrait. There were plenty of rainshowers today with intermittent sunshine, so I felt it was appropriate.
Saving up for Vol de nuit parfum and Jicky edt.
Yum, you smell great!
Thank you!
Have not commented in ages as I was trying to slow down on the perfume buying and just enjoy what I had but… I will be in Paris in a few weeks time! Planning visits to Serge Lutens, Parfums de Nicolai and Guerlain. Also hoping to fit in Jovoy and Fragonard (my daughter likes their stuff and they were very nice to her when she visited 2 years ago) Only have a weekend there before travelling south but I am hoping my husband won’t mind a few hours spent on a sniffathon!
Also a stopover in Dubai on the way home will enable a visit to Diptyque among others. So looking forward to it all!
Oh, this sounds like a heavenly trip!
I’d like to follow your steps one of these days!
I think Ormonde Jayne has opened a store in Dubai – someone correct me if I’m wrong, but if I’m not, you should definitely plan a stop there as well. Have a wonderful trip!
is there anything new that compares to Anais Anais? I adore orange blossom, hyacinth and incense. I actually like the newer incarnation–the original smell like licorice to me. But I was wondering if there is anything else out there right now that is similar? Also does anyone know if the original Halston is still being made? I know they have introduced Halston Woman and Halston Woman Amber–both of which I would love to sample, but the original (even with it’s reformulations) is just as addicting as it ever was. Anything that can compare to that now too?
I forgot to add–I think it is carnation that holds the key to both of these old scents for me. Anything new with a carnation note?
The original Halston is still very easy to find online, but don’t know if they’re still making it or not.
I tried JPG Le Male again recently and fell – quite suddenly – in love with the cinnamon-spearmint-lavender accord. In previous attempts I have just found it strange and a bit off-putting. What I like is the spicy-airiness it has; like a cool-warm effect. Now I’m considering it as my next bottle… Does anyone have an opinion on whether it is too masculine for a woman to wear?
I had been considering Allure Blanche, but while I like that, it doesn’t make me as euphoric as the JPG. I must be on a gender-bender trip because I have already bought M7 and Mugler’s Pure Havane this year!
I have a small sample of Le Male and really love wearing it! I even had my brother’s girlfriend (who is not into perfume) smell it on my and she thought it was a great scent for a girl. I give my humble seal of approval!
Any seals of approval are welcome – even humble ones!
For some reason Le Male reminds me a lot of Musc Ravageur but cleaner and with mint. Can’t help you, except to say that you might like Le Male Terrible – it’s a more intense version and since you wear M7 maybe the intensity of Le Male Terrible will read more unisex on you than regular Le Male. Also the little man-bottle has a razor blade-on-a-chain necklace.
I own and love Pure Havane.
And I see in his review that Kevin actually preferred terrible…. I will have to try it, but it seems not to have that wonderful spearmint in it. Also, its described as more mature which may make it more sophisticated than my nose can handle – but, I will have to sniff!
ok, so this is my opinion on the difference so far. Terriible is less sweet, because it has citrus, less vanilla and, I think, no spearmint. I think it seems more mature because citrus is less sweet and here it has a certain complexity – its also a grapefruit or bergamot which has a slightly sour edge, and I think the slight sour edge reads as mature. I’m also getting the pepper now. Whats gone? The mint brightness and airiness, now it suggests rather than exclaims. To me it is less buoyant and more restrained. I prefer the original just because of its lack of restraint, its unashamed (though perhaps ironic) innocence. The original is happy and CAMP. This one could be worn by your average accountant – its pretty traditional….and…I think there are citrus frags I prefer.
My boyfriend has a bottle and wears it from time to time. I have fallen in love with it, particularly on him, despite it being such a popular scent.
I definitely have spritzed it on myself from time to time and like it on me as well!
Using Incense Oud and planning to buy Coromanel.
Oooh, you can come by my house and let me sniff you!
Oh Lord! I would if I could! And so I’d sniff all your collection. Thanks for the invitation though.
Wearing Last Year’s Jean Paul Gaultier Le Male Summer Version and saving up to buy A*Men Leather Version when it comes out!
CANNOT WAIT To get that one! also hoping to treat myself soon to a bottle of Spicebomb!
How does the summer version differ to the regular? I’m presently infatuated with the regular one…
I’m engaged in a major clean-out of my perfume cabinet–I began counting bottles but it got embarrassing. I have no system of organization and can never find things. I keep my most-used things out on shelves and other things, little used or experiments or failures, are all packed into the dark cabinet. I have found, truly, about five things I completely forgot I owned, including a very fresh bottle of Parfums de Nicolai Odalisque that I bought two years ago in London. Wow! I know I liked it at the time–I only bought two bottles there, both the small ones (the other is Maharanih. Somehow I decided this one didn’t suit me or I didn’t really like it and now I am wondering to myself, why have I not been wearing this every single day for those two years? It’s gorgeous! It’s potent and long-lasting, maybe I’m a bit more open to the white floral aspect these days than then. It’s got a rather skanky element but the oakmoss in it is to die for. I feel fortunate to have it. So, tomorrow I move on to clean out and reorganize the TOP shelf of my little cabinet–who knows what other treasures lurk hidden in there?!
Hi Calypso
How wonderful to organize and find new things. I put a lazy Susan in my linen closet and now I can access bottles much easier. Isn’t it great to find things you had forgotten you had?
Lucky girl, Odalisque is wonderful.
Okay, y’all. I’m pleased to report that Lonestar Memories has just blown my mind.
My Tauer discovery set arrived last week, and I’ve had a lot of fun playing around with it — for my five scents, I picked Incense Rosé, Incense Extreme, L’Air du Desert Marocain, Maroc pour Elle, and the aforementoined Lonestar Memories. Tauer also threw in a sample of Une Rose Vermeille, which was very generous (and is the only one I still haven’t tried). I thought Incense Rosé was just lovely and possibly FB-worthy; Incense Extreme was pleasant enough but not particularly incense-y or extreme (cf. the review in The Guide); Maroc pour Elle was a bit too sweet but could be nice when it gets “cold” in the Bay Area; and there are things I love about L’Air du Desert, but it doesn’t agree with me on skin (a candle would be nice, though).
Anyway, I busted out the Lonestar Memories a few minutes ago (I was preparing to make some chili, so it seemed appropriate). It is love. And barring any bizarre developments in the drydown, there will be a FB.
I was also bad — again — and blind-bought some vintage YSL Nu EDP when it popped up at a discounter. It hasn’t disappointed, though the staying power is strangely anemic (even on my scent-glue skin). And it took me a full five minutes to figure out the spray mechanism.
Hope everyone’s having a great weekend.
Emily, glad you’re loving the Lonestar Memories! It was my first niche sample purchase after I chanced upon a copy of Perfumes:The Guide a few years ago. I hated it at first wearing! It was all creosote, I thought. I didn’t try it again for a couple of years — but then, I got it!! — and now it is one of my very favorites.
I’m really curious about Nu, and have it on my to-sample list. I’m forcing myself not buy more samples, though, until I can work through the 50+ I have right now…
I love the Tauer scents. On my list of FB purchases will be one of these. Don’t know which yet as I haven’t gotten around to sampling them all.
Finally made it to a weekend poll before the weekend ended!
Today I am wearing What We Do In Paris Is Secret. I’ve been trying to work through some of my samples and am really loving this one. When I first put it on it seems like a nice vanilla, but the drydown smells much more complex and spicy. I love it… a great vanilla for warmer weather!
I have several bottles I’ve been meaning to buy, but I’m having trouble deciding which to go for first. I’ve been planning on getting Cuir de Lancome (unsniffed, but it’s cheap and I love leather!), Philosykos (my samples are completely drained, but the heat will end soon… which is when I wear it most), and SL Ambre Sultan. I have some tough decisions up ahead. Hope you are all having a wonderful weekend!
Kelso, if you need any encouragement: I bought a decant of Cuir de Lancome just based off the love that Mals and Rapple have shown it here on NST, and don’t regret it a bit. It’s a wonderful soft leather; IMO it’s definitely FBW.
Thanks! Encouragement is always appreciated
That sounds lovely! Will have to try it!
What We Do in Paris is Secret is one of my favorites too except I use it in colder weather (not sure if you’re in the northern or southern hemisphere).
I also love Philosykos. I have the EDT and would like to try the EDP.
I live in LA so it is still pretty warm here. I’ll be sure to try it during the winter though too!
Also meant to note that I should probably wait to by Philosykos until I’ve smelled the EDP as well. Thanks for the reminder!
I have bought a few Ormonde frags lately – Frangipani for the hot summer days has been perfect. Ormonde Woman is a necessity in my personal collection, and the only full bottle of fragrance I have finished since 2008! The one bottle of perfume I absolutely covet right now is L’Artisan’s Numero 8. The iris and musk. It is absolutely incredible.
Is it? What’s the closest iris scent, or is there one? Admit I sort of ignored the numbered L’Artisans.
It’s similar to Heeley’s Iris de Nuit, but heavier, more earthy and powdery. It feels very special and ‘dressy’, something to wear of an evening! having said that, if I had a bottle, I’d wear it whenever I wanted! I’d love to hear your take on it, as a fellow iris lover.
Thanks! I’ll see if I can find some.
What am I saving my pennies for? I’m not really sure. There are a few scents that I think I may want decants of but the next FB is a mystery. I was craving the original Coco, with all the Coco Noir talk, so I got that recently. I’m starting to work through my samples and see if anything tugs at my heartstrings. Usually at this point in the year if there’s something I fall in love with I put it on my Christmas list and cross my fingers and hope Santa thinks I’ve been a good girl.
I did my perfume diagnostic over at the Nose Paris…Hmmm looks like I will be getting some “prelude to love” by By Kilian and something from Odin and a few others…Acqua di Parma…( i seem to remember liking that ages ago)
i also read a nice post somewhere about perfume tour in SF. So there are a few places I will be checking out.
And thats funny Poodle– as I start my Christmas list now too!!
Oh, forgot the second half to the poll! HA! This quarted has been rough and a few unexpected expenses popped up, so I’m still saving up for my Aftlier sample pack and (hopefully Cacao) future FB. Also had some unexpected expense related depression, so the creeping crap infesting my apartment that I was using thas sampler set to incentivise cleaning out has…well, crept back in. It’s not Hoarders territory yet, but it is certainly dismaying to look around and see.
FWIW: offering you sympathy and a virtual cup of tea and a back rub… Hope you feel better soon.
Went back to bed mid-day, and slept until early evening. Then slept some more. Only think that helps sometimes is to be unconscious! Thanks!
SOTD: SSS Fig Tree. I had forgotten how much I like this one. The dry down is fantastic. A good one for our continuing hot summer days.
Unfortunately, not saving pennies for perfume right now. Pennies are instead going toward a new bookcase and re-covering a love seat. Only so many pennies to go around!
SOTD is Eau de Lierre, which I hurriedly bought after sampling it briefly because it was on sale… I smell like I rolled around in tomato plants and ivy… So wonderful
Testing a couple of samples to see what I want to get when NM has their beauty event next month. Am currently torn between VC&A Vanille Orchidee (which I can only get there) and Baiser Vole extrait (am wearing the EDP on my right hand today, but have smelled the extrait at NM and love how it gets more quickly to the richer part of the lily and vanilla). Hoping to go on a sniffing expedition once the kids go back to school tomorrow, but have to discipline myself tonight to get some actual work done so I can justify it.
I think I need to go back to NM and spray the Vanille Orchidee, not just dab, to make sure it’s not too sweet.
Sounds lovely. I’m going to try it this weekend.
Sapphire, I really like the Vanille Orchidee! It’s one of the very few vanilla scents I actually like, in that it doesn’t smell like perfumed wax candles or candy. I haven’t tried BV extrait- I guess I’ll be making a trip to NM!
Samantha, thanks for the opinion on Vanille Orchidee. Went back to NM today to spray it and it is pretty divine for a vanilla lover like me. The Baiser Vole extrait is still a contender to buy at some point. Was lucky enough that this very sweet Creed SA at NM made up lots of samples for me of a few Creeds, Prada I d’I absolue, and Tom Ford Santal Blush. I have a sample of Vanille Orchidee I am nursing. Just have to compare as quickly as I can. Kelly 4, the beauty event goes Sept 8-16. You usually have to buy $100 total of beauty/fragrance products to qualify. Right beforehand, the website usually puts up a description of the GWP. I did see the gift totes today, and as I recall they were faux patent croc in green, navy, and pewter. They will take a pre-sale order already, I think, since the totes were out to see. THis is usually the best way to make sure that you get the GWP and get the color tote you want (though I need another tote like a hole in my head).
I have never smelled Vanille Orchidee but Baiser Vole extrait smells wonderful. I would love to know more about the NM beauty event. Good luck and happy choosing!
Just curious, has anyone smelled Nicole by Nicole Richie? I tried it the other day in Nordstrom, and was surprised to like it. However, my objectivity is questionable due to how much I covet the deco-style crystal bottle.