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The Monday Mail ~ help Michele find a new fragrance

Posted by Robin on 18 March 2013 101 Comments

Number 24

Today we're helping Michele, who wants to find a new signature scent — she wants one fragrant nirvana, and is not interested in playing the field. It should be full, rich and elegant, grownup, elegant but not snobbish, unique but not strange. Her dream perfume would evoke a confident and mysterious woman who just spent the evening at a smoky jazz club, or possibly a Bob Dylan concert. Ideally, it will also cost under $150, but she will go as high as $200 if need be. Here is what we know about Michele:

She's in her late 40s, but if asked, simply says she is bad with math.

She lives in the suburbs of Toronto, and loves her home but hates the suburbs.

She is very happily married to her first husband, and is self employed and works from home.

She spends several hours a day volunteering, and enjoys spending time outdoors, if outdoors means cafe patios and wandering through city streets.

Her design sense is minimalist both in form and function; her wardrobe is three colors and at time she thinks that is one too many. She has only a few signature pieces of jewellery and never wishes for more.

She says her spirit is bohemian (her favorite footwear is none, she buys Nag Champa incense in bulk and she's a meditation instructor who greets everyone with Namaste rather than hello).

Michele likes amber, civet, patchouli, tobacco, powdery, earthy, smokey, neroli, musk, vetiver, tea scents, soapy notes, grass, white flowers and violet. Some past loves include Yves Saint Laurent Opium (her first adult perfume), Estee Lauder Youth Dew (her going to bed fragrance), Chanel Coco (almost perfect - but not quite), Chanel No. 5, Jo Malone Lime, Basil & Mandarin, Diptyque Tam Dao (gorgeous but disappears so quickly) and Sonoma Scent Studio Tabac Aurea (gorgeous scent but it feels like a flirtation rather than a relationship; maybe too sweet).

Michele dislikes sugared fruit, peaches, anything sweet and innocent, bubbly and sparkly or too crisp, subtle barely there scents, anything too clean and anything blatantly targeted or marketed to the young.

Here are some of the fragrances she has tried recently:

People of the Labyrinths Luctor et Emergo: the strong Play Doh scent is off-putting and lasts longer than she can handle.

Sonoma Scent Studio Champagne de Bois: the opening notes are too bright and it then fades to nothing special.

Il Profumo Patchouli Noir: beautiful but does not last.

Robert Piguet Fracas: full, luscious and pretty...but too floral.

Ineke line: A few opened nicely but faded quickly, so they did not leave her wanting more.

Tom Ford White Patchouli: "I was taken with the opening and it was love at first smell... but it was gone so fast that I heard the sound of fleeing footsteps."

Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess: She bought it because it brought back memories of her summers spent tanning, but she is not interested in it as a signature scent.

Chanel Chance: too youthful.

Balenciaga Paris: She loved it but it disappeared very quickly.

Etat Libre d’Orange Like This: she is intrigued but can't make up her mind about it.

What say you?

Note: top image is Number 24 [cropped] by thristian at flickr; some rights reserved.

Filed Under: perfume talk
Tagged With: monday mail

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101 Comments

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  1. egabbert says:
    18 March 2013 at 12:31 pm

    Smoky jazz club immediately made me think of Serge Lutens Un Voix Noire (gardenia and tobacco, inspired by Billie Holliday). I haven’t actually tried it yet but you definitely should!

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    • egabbert says:
      18 March 2013 at 12:33 pm

      I also think you’d love L’Artisan Seville a l’Aube, an orange blossom scent with lavendar, incense and a deep, long-lasting base (I smell patchouli in there), great sillage.

      And check out Andy Tauer’s line if you haven’t tried it — you might start with L’Air du Desert Morocain.

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    • solanace says:
      18 March 2013 at 1:22 pm

      That’s what I thought, too. Une Voix Noire seems to be perfect for Michelle! I also think Chanel 22 might suit her, since she likes white flowers and incense, and it is so delicious. Another one that comes to my mind is Serge Lutens’ Chergui, because she likes tobacco and it is my personal nirvana!

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      • solanace says:
        18 March 2013 at 1:22 pm

        Seconding the Tauers, they are a bit expensve but really well made and long lasting!

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    • Michele says:
      18 March 2013 at 10:35 pm

      Anything inspired by Billie Holliday will go at the top of my list for sampling. Thank-you Egabbert

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      • Michele says:
        18 March 2013 at 10:40 pm

        This reply was meant for the first comment. Please be patient while I offer much more confusion – it part of my skill set. Yes, I am special that way.

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  2. Elisa says:
    18 March 2013 at 12:33 pm

    Get thee to a Chanel boutique, and start sniffing les Exclusifs! Cuir de Russie, 31 Rue Cambon, No. 22. Beautiful, classic, and certainly not geared towards girls– but rather *women*.

    “Her dream perfume would evoke a confident and mysterious woman who just spent the evening at a smoky jazz club”… Cuir de Russie. Or Piguet Bandit!

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    • Elisa says:
      18 March 2013 at 12:37 pm

      And maybe Serge Lutens Daim Blond.

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    • Na says:
      18 March 2013 at 12:54 pm

      I second Bandit! That’s what came to my mind when I read, “mysterious woman who just spent the evening at a smoky jazz club.”

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      • Michele says:
        18 March 2013 at 10:47 pm

        Bandit: what a wonderful name. I do think I’ve tried this – the name evokes a familiarity. However, since I am uncertain I will try again. Thank-you.

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    • SuddenlyInexplicably says:
      18 March 2013 at 2:21 pm

      I immediately thought of Coromandel, which you can also try at Chanel (there is a Chanel boutique in Toronto–I’ve been there). And since you are a Nag Champa fan, you might try a cheap thrill Pacifica Tibetan Mountain Temple. Namaste!

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    • Michele says:
      18 March 2013 at 10:43 pm

      I will indeed get myself to a Chanel boutique. In fact, I will tell them that I have been sent by Elisa.

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  3. Dilana says:
    18 March 2013 at 12:36 pm

    Since so many fragrances disappear from her, I would suggest she try putting on some unscented body lotion or minimally scented lotion first.

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    • Robin says:
      18 March 2013 at 12:37 pm

      Might help. I was wondering if she might be anosmic to some musks…White Patchouli is not usually so fleeting.

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      • maggiecat says:
        18 March 2013 at 2:56 pm

        That’s a good thought. I was surprised by that comment as well, as I found White Patchouli overpowerlingly strong, as did a friend who loves patchouli much more than I do (and for whom I’d originally purchased the decant).

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      • Michele says:
        18 March 2013 at 10:55 pm

        It is possible I am anosmic to some musks which would be a shame but would explain so very much. If this is the case could you please point me in the direction of the scented exchange department – I wish to swap my inability to appreciate musk for ability to smell sugary scents at a great distance.

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  4. Beata says:
    18 March 2013 at 12:53 pm

    When I read Michele’s list of likes one perfume immediately came to my mind: Ormonde Jayne Montabaco. Long lasting, strong, powerful. Definitely for a woman not a girl!

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    • solanace says:
      18 March 2013 at 1:24 pm

      I want to try this!

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      • Michele says:
        18 March 2013 at 10:56 pm

        Oh, I want to try this too. In fact, I will try this. Thank-you.

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  5. pyramus says:
    18 March 2013 at 12:56 pm

    If Luctor et Emergo almost suits her, then the not entirely dissimilar Rahät Loukoum by Serge Lutens might work, although it’s pretty sweet. Very sweet.

    “Amber, patchouli, civet” means Tabu, surely, and it’s cheap as hell, which is a bonus: since Opium is a past love, and Tabu is the progenitor of Opium, it’s worth a shot.

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    • Michele says:
      18 March 2013 at 11:02 pm

      The Tabu suggestion evoked a memory of a chain smoking neighbour that decorated her home in leopard print and convinced me that bourbon tastes better when served in a teacup. I found her both shocking and delightful. I must seek out some Tabu to try and celebrate this cheap thrill – with a shot of bourbon, of course.

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  6. Wino says:
    18 March 2013 at 12:57 pm

    The first thing that came to my mind was Serge Lutens’ Chergui. Warm, comforting tobacco with sandalwood, honey and incense. It would make a great signature scent!

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    • behemot says:
      18 March 2013 at 5:26 pm

      I second Cherqui…Also, Mona di Orio Vanilla might be worth trying.

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      • Michele says:
        18 March 2013 at 11:04 pm

        The Chergui sounds lovely. In fact, both will be put on my must try list. Thank-you.

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  7. C.H. says:
    18 March 2013 at 12:58 pm

    Marni seems worth a sniff! It might ultimately be too quiet for an Opium lover, but it does come in a body lotion form as well, so maybe if Michele likes the notes, that could help amp it up! It does have good staying power, also.

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    • Michele says:
      18 March 2013 at 11:05 pm

      I am very fond of layering so I shall try this in several forms.

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  8. Dawnkana says:
    18 March 2013 at 1:07 pm

    Juliette has a Gun – Citizen Queen EdP

    L’Artisan Timbuktu

    Ramone Monegal – Mon Patchouli

    MPG – Cuir Fetiche

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    • Michele says:
      18 March 2013 at 11:07 pm

      Four? There are two that I must try just for their names. However, I will try all four. Thank-you.

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  9. PetronellaCJ says:
    18 March 2013 at 1:12 pm

    A few random suggestions:
    Keiko Mecheri Oliban – a beautiful tobacco scent
    Frederic Malle Noir Epices – spices w patchouli and woods
    Balmain Jolie Madame – violet and leather
    Jour d’Hermes – abstract flowers
    Profumum Roma Fiori d’Ambra – as it says, ambra and flowers

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    • solanace says:
      18 March 2013 at 1:27 pm

      Jolie Madame is great. So chic. The current formulaton is no match to the vintage perfection, but as Victoria at Bois de Jasmin said, it is still so much nicer than most of what is launched today – and the price is a real bargain!

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      • Michele says:
        18 March 2013 at 11:09 pm

        Random suggestions are the best kind. Thank-you and I will star the “so chic” recommendation.

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  10. Janice says:
    18 March 2013 at 1:19 pm

    Because she likes civet and amber, I’m going to suggest Sharif from La Via del Profumo (it’s reviewed on this site at https://nstperfume.com/2011/10/12/la-via-del-profumo-sharif-fragrance-review/). It’s leathery and earthy and smoky but also has a slightly sweet almondy aspect (not sugared, though). It’s an all-natural perfume but on me it lasts all day, and it’s something you won’t smell a lot of other people wearing.

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    • nozknoz says:
      18 March 2013 at 10:49 pm

      Sharif is great!

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    • Michele says:
      18 March 2013 at 11:10 pm

      You have made it sound so enticing. I am sold…well, on ordering a sample. Thank-you.

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  11. Dzingnut says:
    18 March 2013 at 1:42 pm

    Agree that Chergui might be just the ticket, I’ll be putting up a bottle of it that needs a good home on the Sat swap.

    SL’s Musc Khublai Khan also might work: a smoky jazz club in Samarkand?

    L’Artisan Dzonghka might also appeal, lots of incense with iris, and a bit of a whiskey-like undertone. Very dry.

    For violet: LesNez The Unicorn Spell, to me smells like frost, violet, and the slightest tinge of cigarette smoke.

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    • Michele says:
      18 March 2013 at 11:12 pm

      My list continues to grow….and with some luscious sounding scents. Merci.

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  12. Jillie says:
    18 March 2013 at 1:53 pm

    Balenciaga Le Dix sounds like it was made for Michele. OK, it’s hard to find now, but given that she already wears Balenciaga Paris, I think she would find Le Dix perfect, as this is rounder, fuller and long lasting, and is worth searching for. It has an abundance of aldehydes, has the violet, amber and civet she loves, and is long lasting. It’s the woman to Paris’s girl. It has been likened to a violet Chanel No 5, but is so much lovelier than that.

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    • Michele says:
      18 March 2013 at 11:14 pm

      “…it’s the woman to the Paris girl.” is a line that would pull me in and has in fact. Your suggestion will be in my first sample order. Thank-you.

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  13. lucasai says:
    18 March 2013 at 2:11 pm

    I say M.Micallef Style or Royal Vintage from the same perfume house.

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  14. Dzingnut says:
    18 March 2013 at 2:48 pm

    Jillie: don’t you wish they would re-issue Le Dix? It is such a wonderful fragrance, I bet it would be a best seller.

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    • PetronellaCJ says:
      18 March 2013 at 4:29 pm

      Second that! I have the smallest of bottles and really love it. Simple but with depth.

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    • Jillie says:
      19 March 2013 at 12:22 pm

      Hi Dzingnut and Petronella – yes, it would be lovely if Le Dix were to return, but I suppose it would have to be so reformulated now that it would be a shadow of its former glory. But one can dream.

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  15. maggiecat says:
    18 March 2013 at 2:58 pm

    What about the Bottega Veneta scents – both original and the newer one? I’m starting to love the Eau Legere, it’s definitely got leather and white flowers, and it lasts very well.

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    • Michele says:
      19 March 2013 at 11:22 am

      The fact that it lasts well is something I do need. I will certainly try it.

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  16. poodle says:
    18 March 2013 at 3:28 pm

    I agree with others and their suggestion of Chergui. Also some of the Tauer’s like Incense Rose or L’air du Desert Morocain might work. Also if you like Tam Dao then try 10 Corso Como. It’s similar but I like it a lot better and there are other products in the line so you could theoretically layer the scent to extend the lasting power if needed.

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    • Michele says:
      19 March 2013 at 11:26 am

      Hello Poodle, your icon makes me smile. Chergui is the scent most suggested so I know that will be at or near the top of my list. The Tauer suggestions and 10 Corso Como will also be on my list. I’m so grateful for the many suggestions – I could never have compiled such a list on my own.

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  17. hajusuuri says:
    18 March 2013 at 4:09 pm

    I suggest:

    Diptique Volutes – either the EDT and the EDP
    Comme des Garcons Incense Kyoto

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    • Michele says:
      19 March 2013 at 11:29 am

      I have a soft spot for Diptique (because they make such deeply scented and insanely addictive candles). I will place your suggestion on my list. Also the Comme des Garcons Incense Kyoto. Thank-you.

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  18. Omega says:
    18 March 2013 at 4:28 pm

    Ambra Di Luna, Ramon Monegal.

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    • Michele says:
      19 March 2013 at 11:35 am

      I’ve never heard of this perfume before and how is that possible when it points to amber directly in it’s name. I shall try it. Thank-you.

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  19. Rappleyea says:
    18 March 2013 at 4:37 pm

    My suggestion is based more on inspiration than on anything solid, but what I got was Solange Cosmic. As I read further, I realized that this might work very well for Michele.

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    • Michele says:
      19 March 2013 at 11:37 am

      A suggestion based on inspiration? I love it and will make certain to seek out your recommendation. Thank-you!

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  20. Liza says:
    18 March 2013 at 4:50 pm

    Some thoughts:
    Lancome Magie Noire (the vintage is what came to mind, but maybe even the current version would work).
    Vero Profumo Onda (the edp is right at the $200 maximum)
    Donna Karan Black Cashmere
    EldO Jasmine et Cigarette
    Caron Tabac Blond and En Avion
    Ormonde Jayne Woman and Tolu
    Guerlain Vetiver Pour Elle
    L’Artisan Nuit de Tubereuse
    Seconding SL’s Chergui and MKK, and adding Arabie

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    • Michele says:
      19 March 2013 at 11:38 am

      Oh my goodness – such an varied and impressive list. Thank-you so much.

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  21. Fuddy Duddy 101 says:
    18 March 2013 at 5:56 pm

    I am almost afraid for you to try this because the lasting power has never been good for me or for a lot of others. However, I think you will really like it and you can use lotion or vaseline as a base to make it last longer. Frederic Malle’s Angéliques Sous La Pluie and I bet you may also like L’Eau d’Hiver from the same line. Best of luck!

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    • Michele says:
      19 March 2013 at 11:41 am

      Lasting power is indeed something I struggle with. However, I am going to try and use unscented body cream or another base to hopefully extend the on skin experience. So, your suggestion will be added. Thank-you.

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      • solanace says:
        19 March 2013 at 5:10 pm

        The Malles are not cheap, but I think you’ll like the aesthetics of the house.

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        • Michele says:
          20 March 2013 at 6:08 pm

          Hello Solance! You are correct – I love the aesthetics, truly love it. The bottle is so minimal and I would actually display it. In an exchange with Robin when I sent her my initial info I mentioned that pretty bottles (or what is typically considered pretty) are tucked in my closet so that they do not distract from the visual minimalism of my space. I know it might seem silly to be concerned with such things – but I am. I would not base my decision on the packaging, but rather it would determine if it sits out or not. Thank you for making mention of the aesthetics….I would not have checked it out otherwise. Hugs.

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  22. stinker_kit says:
    18 March 2013 at 6:17 pm

    One of the most appealing aspects of burning incense is the dryness of it. I crave dry, rich, pulling towards notes we associate more with the east then the west, fragrances. I think you might like Yatagan. Also the Tauer’s mentioned above. You might also find Kyoto appealing. I even like some of the Aveda fragrance oils. These are all sophisticated suggestions. For women who are scentually and spiritually more evolved. Get a bunch of decants of all the suggestions and have a ball!

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    • Michele says:
      19 March 2013 at 11:45 am

      Yes! That is exactly what I plan to do – order a sampling of the many suggestions offered and just spend some time exploring, rejoicing, and having fun finding the perfect one for me. Your suggestions will,of course, be included. How could they not, they are after all sophisticated suggestions and I adore that. Merci.

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  23. imapirate says:
    18 March 2013 at 6:42 pm

    For a more sophisticated version of Youth Dew, try Yosh Omniscent Oil. And I second the Sharif!

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    • Michele says:
      19 March 2013 at 11:46 am

      I shall. Thank-you.

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  24. kindcrow says:
    18 March 2013 at 8:39 pm

    -You might want to get some samples from The Providence Perfume Company (http://www.providenceperfume.com/). Their stuff was too earthy for me, but it might work for you.
    – A perfume oil from Saffron James called Pūnono. Its notes include ylang ylang, pikake, carnation, vanilla and Tunisian opium.
    -Spicebomb
    – Jacomo 08

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    • kindcrow says:
      18 March 2013 at 8:42 pm

      And I am a huge Bob Dylan fan (never been to a concert of his, though).

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      • Michele says:
        19 March 2013 at 12:00 pm

        Your list includes a few I had never heard of….thank-you. If you ever get a chance do try and get tickets to a Dylan concert. You will not be disappointed; his stories and musings between the songs are worth the price of admission.

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  25. Michele says:
    18 March 2013 at 10:34 pm

    Thank-you so very much to everyone: Robin, for accepting my request to be featured in your Monday Mail feature. Everyone else, for taking a few moments to read my rambling list of likes and dislikes and then to offer your thoughtful recommendations. I truly do appreciate it. My plan is to make a list of ALL of these recommendations and begin my journey of finding that one perfect scent for me. This will be so much fun and I will certainly offer an update when Robin puts together her follow-up post. Again thank-you. Merci. Hugs. Mwah and namaste.

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  26. nozknoz says:
    18 March 2013 at 10:51 pm

    I’d recommend that you sample BK Back to Black, Heeley Cuir Pleine Fleur, PG Cuir Venenum and Pd’E Cuir Ottoman. Happy hunting!

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    • Michele says:
      19 March 2013 at 12:02 pm

      The collective wealth of scented knowledge that is displayed daily on this blog is beyond impressive. Thank-you for your suggestions, I will be adding them to my list.

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  27. Kady says:
    18 March 2013 at 11:37 pm

    If you think Coco is almost perfect, but have only tried the EdT and EdP, I suggest giving the Parfum a try if you can get your head around how much more it costs per ml. It’s really gorgeous!

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    • Kady says:
      18 March 2013 at 11:44 pm

      Oh, and Spicebomb! Spicy earthy tobacco. And Bottega Veneta has a gorgeous patchouli jasmine suede drydown.

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      • Fuddy Duddy 101 says:
        19 March 2013 at 9:26 am

        Thumbs up on the ‘Spicebomb”! I totally forgot that one – and I own it! I second both suggestions – Spicebomb and Bottega Veneta.

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      • Michele says:
        19 March 2013 at 11:20 am

        Spicebomb sounds delicious, both the name and the notes you mentioned. I will put that and Bottega Veneta on my list. Oh, and I will indeed try the Coco Parfume. Thank-you.

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  28. aspazy says:
    19 March 2013 at 5:44 am

    Hermessence Vetiver Tonka is minimalistic and bohemian in my opinion.

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    • Michele says:
      19 March 2013 at 12:04 pm

      A minimalistic and bohemian combination is not only unusual but, I would think it is difficult to achieve. So, I am very intrigued by your suggestion. Thank-you.

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      • Lollipop says:
        19 March 2013 at 3:48 pm

        Vetiver Tonka is a must try. Perfection. It’s my number one favorite fragrance in the world.

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        • Michele says:
          20 March 2013 at 5:58 pm

          Wow. Then indeed I will try it. I imagine any person who is a regular on this site does not use the word “favourite” very lightly.

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          • Lollipop says:
            21 March 2013 at 5:15 pm

            It’s so special to me that I “save” it for equally special occasions ! Sounds weird I know but that way I preserve its cachet….

  29. Bee says:
    19 March 2013 at 5:59 am

    what about L’air de rien, that’s boho for you and do try Dzing! (or somewaht similar: Bvlgari black). Otherwise: the obove-mentioned l’air du desert marocain

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    • Michele says:
      19 March 2013 at 12:05 pm

      All three….I will try all three. Thank-you.

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  30. cath says:
    19 March 2013 at 6:02 am

    The first perfume that came to mind is Caron’s Tabac Blond.
    This is a gorgeous smoky leathery tobacco, with a hint of sweetness. It’s on my to buy list, definitely!

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    • Michele says:
      19 March 2013 at 12:05 pm

      It will now be on my list to try. Thank-you.

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  31. Michele says:
    19 March 2013 at 12:08 pm

    Again, thank you to every single one of you. I am overwhelmed with glorious and varied choices and deep appreciation for sharing a moment of your time and your perfume knowledge. xoxo

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  32. Eroica says:
    19 March 2013 at 12:44 pm

    We sound like scent sisters. I love Fleour de Rose and think you would also.

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    • Eroica says:
      19 March 2013 at 12:51 pm

      Voleur de Roses – sorry.

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      • Michele says:
        20 March 2013 at 2:37 pm

        Thank-you Eroica, I will add it to my list.

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  33. Lollipop says:
    19 March 2013 at 3:45 pm

    Wow lots of suggestions, feels superfluous adding mine but Michele likes some perfumes that I adore so here’s my thoughts:-

    1. 100% agree with Chergui. Love it.
    2. 2nding the Magie Noir. Irresistibly dark and lasts for EVER on me.
    3. For a cheap thrill, Stetson, it’s like Youth Dew’s playful cousin.

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    • Michele says:
      20 March 2013 at 2:40 pm

      Your Stetson suggestion made me smile – simply because I would never think to try it. I’m headed to the local pharmacy (which has a large selection of cheap to not-so-cheap perfumes) and I will indeed try it out. The others have been added to my list. Thank-you.

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      • Lollipop says:
        21 March 2013 at 5:17 pm

        Do tell us what you thought of Stetson; I should mention it has a real coca cola note. It is not a sweet perfume to me though and definitely related to YD.

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  34. Cybele says:
    19 March 2013 at 4:35 pm

    Your description of what you are seeking evokes Chanel Coromandel and Comme des Garcons Avignon.

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    • Cybele says:
      19 March 2013 at 6:29 pm

      and try also Chanel 19

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      • Michele says:
        20 March 2013 at 2:41 pm

        The Chanel suggestions are near the top of my list for sampling. Obviously there is something that draws me to that line and so perhaps my signature scent can be found in the not-so-obvious Chanel offerings. Merci.

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  35. Lucy says:
    20 March 2013 at 3:06 am

    Gucci Rush is an old favorite of mine that I think you should try. The list of notes includes several flowers, and even peaches, but I don’t know anyone who can detect them because the patchouli dominates. There is nothing sweet or fruity, instead it is warm, sexy, earthy, and spicy/peppery. It lasts forever and is great for a concert or club. It’s not really easy to find, but somehow Sephora has it. I do hope you’ll give it a chance. Good luck!

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    • Michele says:
      20 March 2013 at 2:44 pm

      Hello Lucy. I will indeed give it a chance. You have made it sound quite lovely and because the peach is subtle I am certain it will not be bothersome. My aversion to peaches is when they are overt. I love peaches and the natural juice scent from the fruit and yet have a very low tolerance for peach scented products. Odd, I know. Thank-you for your suggestion.

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  36. belletrist9 says:
    20 March 2013 at 4:49 am

    There have been some AWESOME suggestions so far, but I thought I would add a few seconds (and thirds +) for L’Air du Desert Marocain and Tabac Blond, those were the two that came to mind first and they are both AMAZING. Also, I’ve not actually tried these, but if you love incense, Michele, you might want to sample some of Laurie’s other incense/tobacco offerings like Incense Pure since I’m pretty sure they are less sweet than Tabac Aurea (which I freaking adore but agree it’s on the sweeter side) and they have pretty incredible sillage and lasting power. And also Wazamba and Ambre Russe from Parfums d’Empire. :)

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    • Michele says:
      20 March 2013 at 2:49 pm

      Laurie’s scents do indeed offer incredible sillage and lasting power. She was kind enough to send a few samples when I ordered the Tabac Aurea and they were all so well done. I will make certain to visit the ones you have highlighted for me. The perfumes that have been suggested by more than one person are the ones I am ordering first. I assume agreement between like-minded perfume folks means that they are worthy of being placed higher on the list. So thank you for adding your nod of approval. Really, I am trying everything suggested and I am confident I will find some I adore.

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    • Sunski says:
      20 March 2013 at 4:49 pm

      Caron Tabac Blond and Tauer L’Air du Desert Marocain were also the firrst that came to my mind. I love leather and smoke and musk and these are both on my (really rather short) “to buy” list. The problem with the Caron is that it’s exhorbitantly expensive. I buy decants while I pine after the offerings on eBay.

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      • Michele says:
        20 March 2013 at 5:56 pm

        My luck is such that with all these wonderful suggestions I will fall in scented love with one of the pricier ones. I was contemplating waiting for many samples to arrive and then covering the names with little post-its so that I pick based on true likes rather than fondness for a name or house. It’s a nice plan, but I know that when the first mailing of samples arrive I will gleefully tear open the package to begin exploring. I adore the three notes that you mention….I think that is what heaven must smell like.

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  37. Jonette says:
    20 March 2013 at 10:28 am

    Michele, you’ve already received lots of suggestions. Here are mine:
    Ava Luxe has a number of fragrances that sound like they’d be right for you.
    Nag Champa
    Green Tara
    Incense Noir (supposed to smell like temple incense)
    There are others that also might appeal. Look at Serena’s Facebook page for descriptions and notes. You can’t get samples from her, but you can buy small decants at some of the popular online decant sites. I have not been disappointed with anything I’ve purchased from her, and find her descriptions very fitting.

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    • Michele says:
      20 March 2013 at 2:53 pm

      Hello Jonette. Thank you for your suggestions my list is now huge and I am grateful for that. Lucky me to begin a journey of sniffing lovely creations that have been recommended by a group of people who know what they speak of. I love temple incense and so I will be sneaking that suggestion into one of my early rounds of sample ordering. Thank-you.

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  38. Manna says:
    20 March 2013 at 11:28 am

    Definitely try CdG Kyoto and l’Artisan Timbuktu! Good luck! Timbuktu is like namaste on the beach of Phuket island, barefoot. (I don’t know if it looks and feels like Timbuktu but certainly feels like Phuket or Hawaii..)

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  39. Michele says:
    20 March 2013 at 2:55 pm

    They are indeed both on my list and I simply love the name Timbuktu. It makes me smile and so that in itself wins points. Namaste on the beach and being barefoot? How glorious is that! Thank-you for taking the time to comment. I feel so blessed to have so many kind people offering their suggestions. Merci.

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