Happy Tuesday, everyone! What fragrance are you wearing today?
I'm in Bvlgari Goldea. Review hopefully coming up later today, but maybe Friday, we'll see.
Reminder: this Friday, 1/15, wear a fragrance from Bvlgari, if you have one.
And for those of you who like to plan ahead, see Scent of the day ~ Friday community projects 2016, where I'll try to always have the next five or six weeks mapped out in advance.
Note: the Bvlgari Serpenti gold and diamond bracelet surely costs a fortune, but I did not even try to find out just how much.
SOTD: Eau de Narcisse Bleu (Hermes)
Nice. Hope they do more in that series.
Love that one!
Wearing Songes (edp). Still haven’t made up my mind about which Bvlgari I want to wear on Friday.
Songes edp…..one of the best while florals in existence….
You smell great! I like to wear it to bed to give me tropical dreams
Love Songes! Thanks for reminding me… I haven’t worn it in a while. I have the EDT and I think I’ll spring for the EDP when I use it up.
I like your pretty kitty avatar!
Mine will be a foregone conclusion – Black!
Black is one of my options!
Foregone conclusion for me too
Songes is so beautiful. I’m not sure about Bvlgari for friday either.
SOTD: Rose Anonyme by Atélier. I disliked Goldea intensely.
Ha, then you can skip the review
I am note a huge fan of the Bvlgari scents, but I have always appreciated their bottle/name aesthetic–even when I have not loved it. But the name Bvlgari Goldea is just too difficult for me to take seriously!
I keep imagining one of my grandma’s long since passed away gal pals… you remember, Goldea Bulgar, she’s a Scrabble wiz and sold her macramé at the shul bazaar. Best latkas! You met her very successful grandson and didn’t say two words to him? Well, he’s married now . . .
Of course. How could I forget those latkas?
Rofl!
I could never forget the latkas…or that handsome grandson…wonder if he’s still taken…
LOL!!!
Agree, it’s a horrid, horrid name. But I forgive it because Omnia is a such a *great* name.
I seem to have missed a boat here….made me think of Goldfinger.
She wore some very sharp jewellery, but a little ungapatch, like that snake!
I used that word recently but had a hard time defining it in English.
Just show a picture of that bracelet
Oy gevalt! That’s hysterical!
Gucci pour Homme today. I am glad I bought a backup bottle when this stuff was cheap since it is one of my favorite incenses. I am drinking a mixture of some lapsong souchong and a middling grade of Yunnan black tea.
Thank you for sharing the tea, I always forget to! At the moment, drinking a Jade Mao Feng from Upton.
Maybe about +35,000 for that bracelet? Its best not to find out
Nothing new to report about baby.
SOTD Encens mythique
On my way to my appointments yesterday I happen to fall into my favorite hat shop, and somehow one ended up on my head and then out the door. Its only my second hat (not a winter hat). Then fell into the Sisley Paris store and smelled Sisley d’orient -not for me. Somehow I wondered into Eric Kayser and ended up with a almond crusted chocolate croissant.
Sounds like a great day to me! Enjoy your free time pre-baby.
It does sound great- I do like it when I happen to fall into dens of luxury and somehow end up with a little memento…
Dens of luxury, love it.
Almond crusted chocolate croissant??? Sign me up!
In these last few days while you are waiting for the baby, go into stores, looking as pregnant as possible. When the nice staff members ask you when you’re due, tell them “a week ago”, then watch them freak out. Best pregnancy game ever!
OK! I will do that..hahaha! I will let you know the reactions..
When I went into EK (so overpriced but delicious treat every now and then) I originally ordered a plain chocolate croissant when the guy behind the counter suggested if I liked almonds to try that. Yummy with a cup of tea.
Lol!
When my mom was pregnant with my little brother, she went shopping in the men’s department of JC Penney’s for my dad’s birthday present. This was late November, and she wasn’t due until mid-February, but he was a big baby (born at 9 lb, 14 oz), and there was a lot of belly there. The salesman helping her eyed her askance and asked, “Ma’am, should you be out shopping?” I’m not sure she reassured him when she told him she had seven weeks to go.
“Fell into” – I love that.
Me too!
It’s funny how these things can just sort of happen to us!
The universe does seem to smile on us as a group.
Treat yourself!
Sounds like a productive day! I love the pastries at Kayser, especially the raspberry financiers. I haven’t eaten yet and now you’ve made me start plotting my attack! I think there’s a Kayser near where I am right now. Hope you’re feeling well.
Feeling good!
I hope you get something yummy to eat.
Kayser is my happy place. I love to simply get an order of their bread and a coffee and sit and read. The bread always comes out warm with butter and jams, it’s heaven. All their treats are amazing too.
I’m delighted to see them opening up in nearly every neighborhood in NYC!
The most similar bracelet I’m seeing on a superficial google search is $76,000. Sounds like a lot for a piece of jewelry, but it would seem cheap for a condo.
Ha, good point!
I could buy lots of cars for that amount of money. The actual bracelet isn’t made anymore. It’s no longer on the Bvlgari website.
I too have been trying to figure out how much the bracelet is, I must admit.
Love “fell into” also. More upbeat than husband version “accidentally” happened. Kayser is close to pharmaceutical for me, so absolutely necessary in your condition!
I think it’s too cold outside for baby to come out. Smart kid.
Keep us posted. I’m getting antsy over here.
-And hungry. That croissant sounds amazing.
I am antsy too!!!
Sounds like a terrific day all around! Speaking of pastiries, have you ever had Lady M Mille Crepe? Light as air and just the right amount of sweet and creamy. I just had lunch and I am salivating (excuse me, slurp) whie typing this comment (slurp).
Lady M is pretty amazing too. I tried for the first time at a party before Christmas and was very impressed. Something different too vs. the same old cupcakes.
Just started lunch!
Googling this place right now ????
It sounds like you are a kind of person I’d like to spend time wandering around with LOL! Hats, fragrance, pastries… Awesome!
Thank you!
It’s cold and snowy here today. I’m keeping it cozy in a big wool sweater and Lyric.
I wouldn’t mind seeing a little bit of snow here. Lyric is so gorgeous. I need to dig out my sample.
That’s because you’re being used as an incubator. The rest of us are freezing and ready for spring.
Ha! My husband tells me I am a furnace ????
All that extra blood volume.
Twins. I’m in Lyric again today. It might be a Lyric week for me.
It’s now snowing, but there’s a chance of snow here later today.
I finally tried the Lyric sample I’d had kicking around for years a few days ago–it was very lovely and cozy.
You smell lovely.
Very good combo for snowy weather!
Chairing a press briefing today, so I’m wearing my (only) Victoria Beckham dress and 31 Rue Cambon. It works, I’m feeling very professional.
Knock ’em dead!
Not sure if they are dead, but it went well
Whoa sounds flawless.
Agreed!
Thanks :)!
Very elegant-both outfit and choice of perfume!
Thank you! These might be the two most elegant things I own.
I really like her style – you look & smell fabulous, I’m sure!
I do as well. Her classic dresses are pretty much my ideal workwear, unfortunately the price level is just insane (I’m not blaming her, it makes sense in the context of the brand). I also like the way she has moved away from only wearing body concious stuff – not that there’s anything wrong with it per se, but it’s interesting to see her branch out. That cropped culottes/slouchy sweater combination she used to wear at some point was excellent.
Yep, agree on all points. Maybe one day I’ll splurge for one of her dresses.
Yeah, I crave one of hers plus a DVF wrap. Mostly you need a job to justify those, though.
I actually admire what Victoria Beckham has done with her fashion line. Interesting yet still accessible. Not that I can afford or likely fit any of her fashions, but everything I see her wear or see images from her line always look really nice and well designed.
You have to respect how polished Victoria Beckham always is; just imagine the amount of effort and dedication it takes!
I’m sure you look and smell wonderful and don’t need any encouragement, but you go girl!
I could never keep it up the way she does, but when I do feel like being my most polished self, I find her look to be a useful reference point.
And thanks :)!
That sounds like a perfect combination.
Thanks! I love matching scents with outfits.
Arquiste 57 for me today. I haven’t worn it in awhile and had forgotten how much I enjoy it. It’s even better on a cold day, I think.
I agree, No.57 feels so cuddly despite the booze.
Or because of?
Every time I read about these Arquiste collaborations, I’m so sad I don’t live in the US.
Ohhh, 57 is great in the cold. I’m thinking about wearing it today since it’s quite chilly here.
SOTD: Dolce&Gabbana’s Velvet Mimosa Bloom.
Pale golden blossom with a touch of honey.
What is that one like – I adore mimosa and am pretty sure I haven’t tried that one?
Super duper freezing in London today. Was all out of sorts this morning and settled on Vanille D’Iris from a sample – quite nice and certainly calming. Which is probably a good thing as I seem unaccountably grumpy and am trying to get a grip on it!
I’m very curious to try this.
Yes, it sounds very nice.
It is very nice – the thing I am slightly puzzled by is sometimes the vanilla seems more prominent and sometimes the iris. Overall though a very smooth and slightly suede like feel. The vanilla is very soft and certainly doesn’t feel especially gourmand to me. More the whole scent feels like being wrapped in cashmere watching snow fall with a slight smell of orris and suede permeating. Certainly worth trying and would be interested to know what you all think of it!
I think the mood goes with the time of year, Sophie, at least in the northern hemisphere. Biding our time till spring.
Another freezing and snowy morning. Used Lush rose jam body conditioner in the shower, then topped it with AG Ce Soir ou Jamais. So now it’s a freezing, snowy, rosy morning.
Rose Jam seems to be very popular. I should give it a try
I bought it last week, after hearing so many raves about it here. It really does smell as wonderful as everyone says, if jammy rose is your thing. Unfortunately, they were sold out of the limited edition rose jam shower gel. I would have bought the gel, along with the luxurious body conditioner. I also got a rose and orris root bath bomb. They’re releasing a rose soap for Valentine’s Day, so I’ll be on the look-out for that.
Ooh, thanks for the tips. I’ll be visiting the Lush store soon and check out that soap.
That sounds lovely.
Rose Jam makes showering into such an uplifting experience! I stocked up last year but I think I missed out for this year… darned LEs.
How do you like the conditioner?
This is the first time I’ve used a body conditioner (put it on and rinse it off in the shower) and it’s been great. My skin is soft enough afterward that I don’t need to put on lotion – time saved! The scent is not as strong as a lotion, but softly lingers on the skin in a lovely way.
I’m getting more into the conditioner as well. It really does a good job of moisturizing and the smell, as you say, isn’t as strong but still its noticeable.
I’ve used the conditioner too and although I like the Ro’s Argan one I’d have to say I much prefer the African Paradise one. Mmmm
I confess: I tossed a half bottle of Rose Jam shower gel because I just couldn’t conquer my dislike. Love roses and even rose jam in a jar, but this was an overwhelming disappointment.
Oh no! You could have gotten your money back by selling it on the ‘bay. Or to me.
I’m with you Karen. I’m sure that I must be missing something. I don’t understand the hype around Rose Jam. I like and own many sweet scents but this one defeats me.
I love CSOJ so you must smell fantastic – I’ve never smelled Rose Jam which is likely a cardinal sin for me as a rose lover.
You really should put it on your to-do list, if you’re near a Lush.
Cuir de Lancome today. Getting close to the end of the sample. Up close, I can smell the leather. But the overwhelming scent impression is REALLY powdery today, and kind of floral. I smell like…the whiff you get when walking past a LUSH store. Not entirely pleased with that result.
Ha. That’s my husband’s least favorite smell. He refuses to go into Lush (and Sephora) with me because the smell is overwhelming to his sensitive nose.
Same with my S.O. But I can imagine a toned down version of that scent being quite appealing. I’ll need to try my sample this week.
I find Lush stores overwhelming as well. As if the wall of scent so thick you couldn’t cut through it with jaws of life isn’t headache-inducing enough, add to that BLARING music at decibels that could fill a night club *shakes cane,* blindingly bright lights, and a store so overpacked with product and shoppers one can barely move a foot at a time. I can’t deal with it long enough to sightsee, much less make a decision.
So I guess I’m with your H on this one
The overwhelming part of Lush for me is the aggressive sales staff, especially at the Macy’s location. Good grief, ladies, give me some personal space!
Blaring music and lights?? Wow you guys get the whole experience!! Lol. We just have the smell.. The SA’s are sometimes too enthusiastic but always helpful and friendly.
The stinky shop I refuse to go into is a candle shop called Dusk. All those overwhelming artificial smells just make my throat scratchy.
My husband refuses to go into any sort of “smelly” store. He simply waits outside until I am done
Mine too – he doesn’t even like to wait right outside since he get s migraines from smells sometimes. So I am a work only perfumista!
CdL sometimes gets really powdery for me too. Last time I wore it, I had to layer with some Tauer L’ADDM to bring it back down to earth.
SOTD
Shanghai Lily
Nice.
I’m in Hermes Bel Ami today, inspired by Bexca! I always forget how Bel Ami morphs from rather butch, tarry leather into something just slightly softer and spicier. And lasts and lasts. Ooooh, ahhhhh.
That sounds fantastic — I’ll have to seek that one out!
Excellent choice!
Thank you! I knew you’d approve.
Wearing Attrape Coeur from a decant today. Wore Guet-Appens from my lantern bottle yesterday. I enjoy comparing these two side-by-side. I LOVE this scent, but it is best when the weather is cold, no question!
Oh, AC is so nice (never managed to smell Guet-Apens) in winter. My decant is almost gone.
Ooh so do you notice differences? What are they?
Yes, I’m dying to know the answer to this, too!
It’s been a while since I did a straight-up side-by-side. Also, keep in mind that, by definition, the GA is older, and the AC is a decant.
With all those caveats, though, I find the GA more anamalic in the top notes. I also think maybe there’s a little more powder in the AC. Both have the heart of that beautiful rose and violet. Both last all day on me in cool weather and become a bit overwhelming in hot weather.
I’m in Ormande Woman–it’s funny, the more I wear it the more I notice the witchy hemlock opening.
I’ll have to see if I can smell that witchy hemlock opening–sounds interesting.
LOVE that one!
The opening is the best part!
Today it’s my old favorite and winter stand-by Lalique Le Parfum
I am looking forward to your Bvlgari Goldea review. Sounds promising but I’ve heard super-sweet. The bottle looks gorgeous.
I’m surprised I don’t hear more about Lalique fragrances. I especially love Living Lalique.
Encre Noir seems universally loved. But you’re right, I don’t know that much about the brand’s other offerings.
Je Suis Un Homme by Etat. Yummy citrus leather, so nice.
I’ve only smelled the one on paper but I recall I liked it! Should give it a more serious test.
Gotta love the name, if nothing else. And now I have Chicago singing “I’m a maaaaaaan, yes I aaaaaam” stuck in my head.
LOVE that song!
It’s cold and snowing out and I’m prowling E-Bay for no good reason. I’m sitting in a cloud of Dia this morning, I think when I take a shower, I will use the bath products for Dia. Maybe or I might go with Lyric instead.
Prowling ebay while it’s cold and snowy outdoors is the best, and could only be enhanced by clouds of Dia or Lyric!
The sad thing is that I have two vintage bottles of perfume that I am contemplating, so it’s going to be another year where I do kind of break my New Year’s resolution. It was no more full bottles of perfume until I finish at least one. I think I will attack some of the minis that I got to make room.
With vintage perfume, I usually regret the ones that I didn’t buy more than the ones I did.
So true
Lucky! I’m the opposite.
*Nods*
And if I end up with one I’m not totally in love with, I can console myself with the thought that it’s actually increasing in value sitting on the shelf unworn…
That is a good Resolution! I am going to try to do the same
Trying out my first Tauer this morning; L’Air du Desert Marocain. It’s definitely an interesting one. I don’t dislike it, but it is very dry. It actually smells best on my chest, where it’s mixed with the remnants of last night’s Shalimar. Gives it a hint of sweetness.
I love that one but when I crave a bit more sweetness I layer it with a sweeter amber. It’s a really nice combo.
I’ll have to see what kind of ambers I have. It’s settled down now, and I quite like it.
I love L’Air du Desert Marocain and PHI. It’s funny but I’ve read here that it’s not a favorite of many but I really enjoy it just the way it is. I also like his Rose Chypre but I already own Sballo by Bruno Acampora which is similar and my scent of the day. I think RC has a mint note in the opening that I’m not crazy about. Still nice though.
I liked it, even when I first put it on, but it was a little overwhelming. It is definitely evocative of the name. It smells like hot, dry, desert air at first. Not a bad thing at all, just not what you usually get from perfume.
I’ve begun to worry that I have a dull nose. I ordered a new batch of samples, which include LAdDM and a few others that I was really interested in smelling because they’re different or divisive. I put a dab of Bandit on my hand last night, and it was definitely strong, but really nice. Not nearly as odd or intense as I expected. It is the modern version, so I know it’s muted because of that too. But so far I like most of the “weirder” stuff I’ve smelled. I don’t know if my nose is dull, or if I just have weird taste.
Some of it may just be winter. I find when I am inside most of the time, with central air heating or air conditioning, it does odd things to my sense of smell…
That’s true, I’m sure winter isn’t helping. I saw Wendysue’s comment further down, and wonder if what she’s saying is part of it too. I either don’t smell, or don’t identify, animalic notes. I don’t know if my nose is not sensitive enough, if I don’t know what they actually smell like and just can’t pick them out, or if I’m desensitized to animal based scents due to years of working at vet’s offices and being a barn rat. I have a fairly sensitive nose when it comes to non-perfume things, and a pretty good sense of taste, which is connected to smelling. It’s just with perfume that I feel like I’m missing something.
I hadn’t really thought about it, but when I went sniffing this weekend, the sales associates at the Guerlain counters were all pleasantly surprised when I expressed my deep and abiding love for Jicky. It made me wonder if I’m missing something.
I identify a lot of musky notes as friendly and cozy, rather than stinky – I am sure it is my long association with many horses and dogs and other creatures…That said, there are some muscs that I am anosmic to, and my adorable hubby is anosmic to a different set of things. Sometimes I will put something on my arm, and have him sniff it, and he smells nothing. Then there are those things where I walk into the room and he says, “What’s THAT?” “It” may not necessarily smell bad to him, but somethings just smell a LOT to him. Elizabeth Arden’s Red Door is a notable example of that. My sister wore that home to her house one day, and she walked in the door, and her husband said, “What’s that?” She asked if it smelled good, and he said, “It just smells a lot.” She sent her cute little mini of it to me. I put it on, and had practically the exact same conversation with adorable hubbie. Consequently, Red Door is a scent I wear out with my girlfriends. Women say, “Oh that smells nice.” LOL.
That’s really interesting about your husband, and brother-in-law. If I’m anosmic to anything I am currently unaware of it. But like you, I have pleasant associations with some scents that others might wrinkle their nose at. I don’t think I will ever tire of the smell of a well kept stable. Hay, wood, leather, horse, and sunshine. Mmmm. I wish I had a perfume that smelled like that. Others might not appreciate the horse aspect, but I would.
If I wear L’ADDM by itself, I only put on the smallest dab and that works really well for me. The sillage is fantastic. I actully prefer to use L’ADDM as a layering fragrance. It’s great to pair with roses and powdery or sweet fragrances to give them some heft and depth.
I might try adding a little rose to it when I get home. Thanks for the idea! I don’t dislike this fragrance at all, but it’s a bit tough to get my head around. I might wear something a little easier to comprehend tomorrow.
I’m wearing Bottega Veneta’s Knot today. I call it my sophisticated orange blossom.
Looking forward to the review of Goldea as well, and that bracelet is crazy gorgeous!
I’m regretting my sweater choice today: mohair turtleneck. The itchiness is driving me a little nuts. I’m not regretting my perfume choice: Amouage Beloved. So easy and pretty.
Mohair is so pretty and so uncomfortable. I love it but it but can’t wear it myself. I’m sure that you look great and you smell lovely too.
Awwww. Thanks! Mohair is deceptive as it looks and feels so soft when you touch it. I’m seriously considering wrapping my neck in toilet paper.
LOL… I would love to see that! Poor Elisa. Maybe you should buy a silk turtleneck/undershirts like those that the skiers wear? When I was younger and cared more about appearance than comfort, that’s what I used to do.
Good idea!I might pop into a store and get one(it’s annoying me that much).
LL Bean sells them if you are interested.
Uniqlo has them and it’s close by. Don’t even know where an actual LL Bean store is. It’s always been just a catalog to me.
Same here – if I wear mohair on bare skin, it’s almost like I’m allergic to it.
I should have remembered this from the last time I wore this. My neck is a bit red.
The neck part would be the worst for me since the itchiness there can’t be circumvented by an undershirt.
At least you smell wonderful!
The nice smell offsets it a bit. I’m wearing a long-sleeve shirt underneath so most of me is spared.
You smell beautiful!
I know that feeling! I feel like the more I itch the worst it gets
Mohair is too tricky. As you said, it is deceptive. It looks SO SOFT, but it’s just a beautiful, sneaky disaster to wear. So itchy.
Mohair is lovely, but I agree not next to skin! I’ve been driven insane by small patches of skin exposed to an otherwise beautiful jersey (which I think you US folk would call a sweater).
I feel your itch with turtlenecks. I used to wear woolly t-neck sweaters all the time, but now I can’t stand them. Beloved is so awesome! I should wear some soon. It’s the only fragrance left on my want list.
L’Heure Bleue. So beautiful.
YES.
I had just put some on before I climbed into bed to check-in. Delicious isn’t it
I like to wear it for bedtime too. It is a great sleep scent IMO.
Ahhh. Me too.
I do the same thing with it. It makes my sheets smell so good too.
Paris dreams.
I’m wearing Infusion d’Iris, which is a relief after yesterday’s vanilla coconut bomb.
What was the v-c bomb?
It was Lolita Lempicka Elle l’Aime.
Good to know. Thanks
Twins, wore this today to motivate me gently.
Clinique Aromatics in Black: I am not smelling the promised fruits jasmine, osmanthus, myrhh and vetiver; rather, it just smells warm and really good to me. To give an approximate idea of where it lies on the cognitive perfume map, it’s a bit like a softer and much, much simplified Ineke Field Notes from Paris, or like Bill Blass Nude with a the merest hint of neutered patchouli. Easy wearing. I ordered a bottle.
“Neutered patchouli”-most excellent descriptor:-D
I still really want to test this. Your fragrance associations to it are baffling! I can’t imagine BB Nude and anything with patchouli in it, regardless of being neutered. Very intriguing.
Well, it’s not real patchouli. Perhaps you could think of BB Nude heading in a slightly masculine direction. It’s not brilliant or very interesting, it just smells good, and I like having perfumes like that to sleep in.
I like “cognitive perfume map.”
Gorgeous bracelet ☺.
I’m wearing Chanel Cuir du Russie today.
I agree, that bracelet is pretty, though it would probably be overwhelming for most of my wardrobe.
You smell great! Is there much of a difference if you spray versus dab Cuir du Russie?
I have always sprayed.
This is just a feeling I have, but this scent can be a little “heavy” if I spray too much. I think it works best if I spritz lightly, and dabbing may be a bit too much. For me, at least.
I know Chanel Cuir de Russie does come in parfum form, but I have never tried it.
Gorgeous scent
Hey, your perfume could live up to the bracelet!
True!
I got a sample of Hiram Green Voyage yesterday, and I’m wearing that on one wrist and Les Indes Galantes on the other. They are similar—both have a spicy-leather-vanilla vibe—but Les Indes Galantes is, I think, a bit more complex and definitely sweeter. It will be interesting to see how they both develop.
I wore Les Indes Galantes last night. I liked it quite a lot but it is sweet.
I just randomly came across my new most-desired perfume bottles:
http://www.mimifroufrou.com/scentedsalamander/2015/10/neandertal_perfumes.html
I don’t really care what they smell like, but one has to admit that it’s not every day that a perfumer tries to “evoke the knapping process.” Once again, life is stranger than Prix Eaux Faux!
Wow, those are really great bottles….
They are not typical, that’s for sure.
Yup, very strange. Hopefully they aren’t as heavy as they look…
Maybe it smells similar to Alaia?
That’s worth considering!
No one can make a perfume worthy of this concept. But if they could….
I know, sigh!
Those bottles really are works of art!
OMG, those are amazing. My inner archaeologist is weeping happy tears while she and my inner perfumista meet for the first time. WANT!!!!
LOL!
missionista, yes, that’s it! I’ve loved archeology for as long as I’ve loved perfume.
I am obsessing about these bottles. I am tempted to blind buy this… something I nevery do!
Wearing Alien in honor of David Bowie.
Aching all over from a 3 hour workout two days ago. It will be worth it if I can finish the Spartan Race in August.
Great choice.
Good luck with your race!
Great choice! Alien EA is on my must wear sometime this week list.
My miniscule application of vintage Opium appears to have the power of self-replication. Growth is exponential. Resistance is futile. Submit, I submit.
Ha, excellent!
I had a bit of a crisis last night when I realized to forgot something at work that I needed for my business trip, but managed to get it resolved without missing my flight. Wearing Tea for Two and desperately needing some rest…or caffeine.
Caffeine is usually easier… But I hope you get some rest as well.
Hope all the caffeine you need comes your way!
Wish I could send some good Portland coffee your way. Hope your work goes well and that you get some rest.
Tea for Two is wonderful – you smell great!
No scent for me today — I’m taking my little man in for vaccinations today, so I want to smell like unadulterated mama for him…
Awww, that’s so sweet! I’m sure he’s a brave little guy, but it doesn’t hurt to have the smell of unadulterated mom close by.
Oh, good luck — boy, do kids hate shots.
Poor little guy
Hope he gets over it quickly.
Comparing Memo Inle and Creed Acqua Fiorentino today (I paid more attention to the names this morning!) Inle is a lovely odor, but starting to fade at 4 hours – hard to justify the price for a friendly summery scent. Creed Acqua Fiorentino has a little more body, and is very pleasant as well, but I believe I liked the Creed Fleur des Gardenia I sampled yesterday better.
I think I will probably pass both of these on to the rehoming box, or maybe I will give Inle one more round of testing – it might be better in the summer…
I might have to add a little something from my stash here at work to get me through the afternoon…Ah, I’ll put on some Dame Desert Rose, another thing that is sort of out of season, but smells nice in the sample vial today…
SOTD was Nuit de Tubereuse. My teller at the bank today complimented me and asked me what it was. Always glad to help
SOBT (scent of bed time) is L’Heure Bleue, which I adore in summer.
Hmm. Not personally loving the condo-priced snake. Looks like it could cost $75000 or like it could cost $14.99 at Target.
yes, what is the point of having the really expensive real thing, when anyone can get the exact same thing except it is tacky because it cost $14.99.
Ha! 14.99 at target!
Actually, I did get some snake rhinestone earrings at Target last year. I think they were $8.99. I may wear them today
One of my favorite pair of earrings cost me $3.99. And I never lose them like I lose the costlier ones…
When people complement my CZ studs and ask if they’re real, I tell them, no, they’re not. You know how you can tell? Because they’re BOTH STILL THERE.
Yep! I have a great pair of CZ earrings that get compliments all the time… and I never lose them.
(Unfortunately, I *have* managed to lose one of a pair of inexpensive beaded earrings I bought on Etsy because they were the team colors of my kids’ high school. They were perfect, sigh. I’d replace them, but the seller only makes one-of-a-kind pairs. Of course.
)
Ha! So true. Is it classy or vulgar? They can make a knock off and call it “Vvlgari”
Vvlgari…..A brand for the 21st century, for sure…
Very clever
I’m surprised nobody has done that yet.
Thanks-The product of too much caffeine.
Hahaha! That is so funny and clever!
Today I’m wearing Bvlgari Eau Parfumee au The Vert, which is usually a summer scent for me. I’m saving my only other Bvlgari for Friday.
My favourite Bvlgari!
Craving heavy spicy smells today so SOTD is Le Labo Rose 31. I normally only do two sprays of this one but my lunch date cancelled so I might go for two more!! Stand back!
I vote two more!!!
Funny, I experience that one as rather light and on the fresher side. I tested it out in the summer and it faired well in the heat.
Rose 31 is a big rose! I haven’t worn my decant in a really long time. When I do I always crave sunshine and Mexican food b/c of that great, and I think best and my fav, use of cumin.
Started out scentless because (I thought) I had a dentist appointment to get my teeth cleaned. Got there and found out it was supposed to be on Thursday. Grrrr. I was really trying to be on top of things because I spaced out forgot my boys’ appointment in December and had to reschedule them (in February because their hygienists are so busy). Went back home in anticipation to samples of Aftelier Bergamoss and Wild Roses that arrived yesterday. Unfortunately, Bergamoss is a total scrubber on me, very sour. Wild roses is just meh. I tried Vanilla Smoke last night. At first, it was so smoky that it was like a campfire. It settled down pretty well, but reminds me so much of Mona di Orio Vanilla (which I have some nice little decants of) that I won’t need to buy a bottle.
Going swimming in a little bit and not sure what I will put on after. It can be something strong-ish to counteract vet office smells. I am taking both cats and both dogs to the vet all at one time for shots (one cat carrier and one leash per hand–it will be an adventure).
Thursday (when I really do go to the dentist) I am going to re-test Bvlgari au The Bleu and see if I can get a sample. Might wear it Friday (vs original Omnia).
Might wear Aerin Evening Rose or TF Shanghai Lily (inspired by Apsara).
For now, I decided to hold off on buying any discovery sets or FB’s to celebrate my boards and have ordered a boatload of samples (the Afteliers from her website and a bunch that I have been eyeing on STC).
Wild Roses grew on me. At first it was mostly head shop, but then I found it sort of cheerful as the flowers popped out.
SOTM was Bogue Maai which I could not wait to try. Maybe it’s my body chemistry or that I’ve worked in environments with terrible odors, but I never smell the negatives from the animalic “skanky” elements that many people do. I enjoyed the few hours experience of Maai unfolding until I removed it because I wasn’t sure my dentist would feel the same way.
You should try Yves Saint Laurent Kouros. If you can’t smell the animalic from that, then you’re probably anosmic. If you can smell it, but don’t mind it, then it is possible you have great skin for animalic scents.
Thank you for the suggestion. I will try it and report back :-).
Sampling Osmanthe Yunnan today…
It is really beautiful…my favorite of the bunch so far. It is on the lighter side but all of the Hermessence fragrances seem to be.
Wondering what an Osmanthe Yunnan Extreme might smell like too…
Yup. I think that was my favorite of the bunch as well!
I would LOVE an Osmanthe Yunnan Extreme.
Me too, on both accounts.
Or Hermes Anything Extreme, which would be the same as Average Anything Else….
In the curiously addicting Terveer Incense that a very generous NSTer sent me. It looks like a concept product (the company is big into roll-on application, which it markets as a tactile experience), and is ridiculously expensive…so I’ll just enjoy this sample as long as it lasts.
Wearing L’Artisan’s Amour Nocturne. Got a FB of this at a great price (thanks to all of the enablers here that gave me a head’s up with this steal on Hautelook.) I have received several compliments on this one today. I am definitely happy that I was able to get a FB of this one.
This one gets no love, but I’m a fan as well. I’ve kind of been waiting for the (much) smaller 50 ml bottle to hit the discounters before I consider buying.
I went to the L’Artisan website to check things out and it turns out they’re having a winter clearance sale right now. Looks like some really good deals and makes me wonder if what they’re clearing out is going up on the blocks to be discontinued…
Gold and Diamond Serpenti bracelet = WANT (I would be happy with a gold-plated cubic zirconia decoy)
SOTD = TF Amber Absolute layered under Indult Tihota
OMG, if I may say so myself, I smell PRETTY DARN AWESOME! It is what TF Tobacco Vanille should have been, minus the tobacco notes.
Since I am in an experimentation mode, I may add a drop of Mohur Extrait (!!!!!!!!!) tomorrow; i bet it will be even more spectacular. Y’all will know tomorrow.
Any suggestions on what to layer in lieu of Mohur Extrait?
Don’t you love it when you “fix” wrong perfumes?
LOL – sometimes the perfume is right but the name is wrong
SSS Rose Musc is like Mohur Extrait’s long lost cousin that grew up on the other side of town..a drop of this would do it? Or maybe Vanilla and Tobacco – Spiriteuse Double Vanilla?
Ooh, that’s good to know about Rose Musc!
Mohur extrait is the genteel, upper crust, more complicated and subtle version, Rose Musc is not subtle Rose and Musc! I love them both…
Nice to know about scent twins for Rose Musc. One of my fav SSS.
It’s pretty chilly outside today, so I am thinking of either wearing Arquiste 57 for J. Crew or Hermes Ambre Narguile. Both are so cozy. But that will only happen when I work up the energy to get up from my spot in front of the fireplace. (A side note, the fireplace is actually just a space heater that I sit in front of in the mornings and pretend it is a fireplace. It’s still nice though!)
Sounds cozy! I vote for Arquiste 57 because it was mentioned earlier, but both are very lovely.
Haha! Love your fireplace
I wore Ambre Narguile yesterday and thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s beautifully done, and very long-wearing for a Hermessence (an Hermessence?)
I’m wearing Chinatown which only works for me in winter; I wore it in summer once and nearly died (and killed everyone around me)
I can see that. There’s a fine line between love and suffocating with Chinatown for me as well. Highly dose and weather dependent.
Definitely a winter scent.
Do you notice any similarity between Jungle L’Elephant and Chinatown?
They have similar personalities rather than smell similar, if that makes any sense.
Everyone smells so GOOD!
SOTD for me is the spicey smokey warmth of Tea for Two. I went a little spritz happy and depressed the trigger about SIX times- good thing this scent is so transparent.
Twins! Spritz-happy twins, too. I put on 8 sprays then got on an airplane. You’re fiiiine.
Plus, you smell great.
Hey, that was the best smelling plane in the sky ✈️
Lovely! Tea for Two is top of my buying list. I don’t know why it took me so long to try it, but once I did…
24 Faubourg for me today. Having survived to the middle of the week, I deserve a touch of luxury
Ooh, you smell amazing.
And you smell wonderful.
Bravo!
Sorry it was a struggle. (Keep on huffin’)
I did a Demeter layering experiment today. I can still get a little whiff of it, but it’s already mostly gone. It was Violet + Iris + Fireplace. Iris is the strongest of the three, so it dominated for a little while, but eventually they all came together really nicely. I think I might need a bottle of Fireplace. I like it a lot.
What a great idea!
The combo worked pretty well! The violet gets pretty indistinct and just lends a little floral hint to the sweetened wood smoke of Fireplace. Iris might have the shortest longevity of the three because I don’t smell it at all now, or maybe it’s just blended in so much I can’t pick it out.
Decided to find some Bulgari since I won’t be taking part on Friday – I’ll be in a car with my migraine prone husband for a few hours, so no scent for me! Only thing I could find here was Voile de Jasmin. I have Green Tea and Omnia Coral samples somewhere, but not with me. This sample is VERY old, so I think it’s off. Smells like a baby product – not powder, maybe that pink bottle lotion? Not much jasmine, in any case.
Hope the fragrance-free car ride goes well, and kudos for doing your homework early
Wearing Carnal Flower today. I’ve been enjoying it immensely in this cooler weather. When I sprayed it initially on my neck last week I had on a circular scarf, and so now every time I put on said scarf it’s heavenly.
Catching a whiff of old perfume gives me the same rush as finding money in a pocket. It’s like meeting an old friend you almost forgot about.
Awhile ago I noticed my coats and car seatbelt now continuously smell like a mixture of perfumes that is just glorious. Reminds me of how my fingers smell after decanting a bunch of perfumes.
Just lovely
Yes! My winter parka smells utterly delicious now. I wish I could bottle it!
That is so cool. I love when that happens. Sometimes when I smell a prior application on a scarf I’ll be like, wow, that smells great. And it cracks me up b/c it can take me a while sometimes to remember what fragrance it was.
I love finding scents on my scarves! There’s something so delicious about a nice bit of cuddly cashmere with yummy basenotes clinging to it.
It’s cold, so I went for a BWF: Fracas. I got a brief maple creme brulee note from it right when I put it on. That might be my ideal foody gourmand: an amusing whiff, then gone.
BWFs are so great in the cold.
My first big physio appointment and other running around. Osmanthe Yunan, which will probably be gone by 1, but it’s a very pleasant tea to enjoy now.
Hope that means you were able to ditch crutches and/or all associated ambulatory assistive devices ????????
One crutch out on the streets, but none at home/inside!
Next job: to ditch the boot!
I’m sampling Bergamoss this morning, courtesy of Pixel. I like it a lot. I’m finding that moss is one of my favorite notes.
I’m in stolen sprays of EL Knowing, which I gifted my mother for Christmas this year. It’s horrendously expensive here and I was kicking myself for not thinking of gifts until it was too late to order anything online. It’s good though and she seems to love it so it doesn’t matter!
How did they get a picture of my bracelet?
SOTD in honor of our first snow is vintage Guerlain Vol de Nuit edt.
Mohur for me today. This one seems to have gotten quite popular around here. For good reason, I find it exquisite! So envious of y’all who got the 50% deal.
Was doing some sampling last night, and tried a couple of things that I thought smelled very nice but didn’t want to actually smell of them. I wonder why, though…if I like the smell, why don’t I want to smell of them? One for the ages, I guess.
I understand completely! I liked Ostara a lot, but realized I didn’t really want to smell like a daffodil. Same with some foody scents–I love the pastry/cereal/caramel whatever, but I don’t want to wear them.
I have similar feelings, especially with foody scents or even woody scents. I never mind smelling like a flower (or a whole garden).
My plan to wear Hermès Santal Massoïa was derailed by starting the a.m. with a little test dot of Tom Ford Noir Pour Homme on my hand. The strong marzipan note reminded me of Hypnotic Poison, so I have that on the other hand, and some Organza Indecence on my arm. The cacophony of sugar, almonds, vanilla pudding and syrup is starting make me a bit nauseated so I’m ready to wash it all off and begin anew…
In No. 19 – even just writing its name makes me sit up straight.
I have a few sit-up-straight scents too
Guerlain’s Vetiver comes to mind!
Truedat!
My partner’s car was broken into Saturday night and my overnight bags stolen from the boot. Unfortunately the external drive I back up on was there along with my computer… And kindle… And two pouches of my favourite samples. The other items will be easier to get over – clothes, shoes etc. Right now I’m in Chergui which always makes everything ok!
Oh no! That’s terrible! I hope you have insurance to cover it. At least you smell wonderful!
No, it turns out that nothing is covered because it was not stolen from my own car… In fact – I didn’t strictly require the Chergui before discovering this fact! Breathe in hay-rose-honey glory, breathe out. My new mantra!
Merlin, I’m so sorry this happened to you. Perhaps your homeowner’s insurance will cover it? I had my purse stolen at a cafe and I was able to get replacement cost minus the deductible.
Hajusuuri is right. Coverage for this is going to come from your homeowners or renters policy. It varies from state to state, but there should be coverage for personal property off premises. I sell insurance for a living, but I only know about GA laws. If you have an insurance agent, call them and ask for help. If you don’t have an agent, you’ll have to peruse your policy and call claims yourself.
Thanks Hajusuuri and Newiebex, in the past I have received compensation for things taken or lost when I have been out. I had thought this was covered by household goods. However, our policy was changed about a year ago and when I inquired they said that I would need to have ‘incidental’ insurance to be covered.now. I’m in South Africa so the laws are different, but it may be worth scrutinizing the contract anyway.
Oh, so sorry Merlin! After a couple of incidents over the years, I tend to split my valuables to mitigate possible loss. Helluva way to live, but…
That is a lot more sensible!
I’m so sorry.
I had my purse stolen off an airplane on New Years Eve, and even though nothing irreplaceable was stolen it still felt like such a violation. Luckily, most of what was stolen was bought with American Express, and they reimburse you for stolen items so at least you could recoup some of the money. Although most of the value for those electronics were probably your files… 
Please post the samples that were stolen tomorrow morning (posts in the morning get the most reads), and I’ll personally see what I can send you.
You smell wonderful!
I am always stunned by the generosity of NSTers, and perfumistas more generally!
SublimiSomnium, thank you so much! It may be easier to let them go – but if I am truly hankering for some I will give a shout out. Knowing that’s even possible makes it easier!
I’m sorry about it – theft of personal items really feels like such a violation.
Yes, but good wishes from so many of you is definitely restorative.
Thanks Mals!
Wore Bottega Veneta today – always perfect. Just put on a bit of TF Amber Absolute, with BV over it. The AA is clobbering the BV. Predictably, I guess.
Yup, Amber Absolute takes no prisoners! It played nicely with Tihota (VANILLA! MUSK!). A leather that could take AA on is Puredistance M — I have not tried it but can imagine that combo working out well.