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Friday scent of the day 9/15

Posted by Robin on 15 September 2017 280 Comments

Happy Friday, and welcome to edition 2 of the Picture challenge! (You can see edition 1 here). Our community project for today: wear a perfume that matches the picture, which is Portraits of the *** Family, called The Family Gathering, summer 1867 - early winter 1868 by Frédéric Bazille, shown recently in the exhibit Frédéric Bazille and the Birth of Impressionism. You can read more about the painting here, and you can see a larger image here.

What fragrance did you pick? As always, do chime in with your scent of the day even if you’re not participating in the community project.

I focused on the artist, who has painted himself into the far left behind his uncle, and who appears to be less substantial, or less defined, than anyone else in the composition. It has been suggested that the painting's subjects are presented like a group who have been interrupted (and possibly aren't particularly pleased about it) while preparing to pose for a photograph; Bazille, then, you could say is "out of focus". Aware also that he chose painting over medicine against his family's wishes, and that he would be killed in the Franco-Prussian War within a few years (at the age of 28), I've picked my old favorite Maître Parfumeur et Gantier Eau Pour Le Jeune Homme for courage and purpose. It also goes nicely with the backdrop.

Reminder: on 9/22 wear one of your "top 10 of fall" fragrances (unless it's spring where you are, in which case wear one of your "top 10 of spring" scents).

And for those of you who like to plan ahead, see Scent of the day ~ Friday community projects 2017, where I'll try to always have the next five or six weeks mapped out in advance.

Filed Under: poll
Tagged With: friday community project, sotd

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280 Comments

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  1. shellyw says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:22 am

    Had to try my sample of T’if from recent Ormande Jayne order. Nice but very faint. I used most of the bottle too.
    Tangent-I think that painting may have traveled to SF in recent years. We have had several variations on impressionists in special exhibits. I recall the note about him dying not long after. I love our fine arts museums here! The Legion of Honor is on the cliffs on the west edge of the city. You can see beautiful paintings and then have lunch in the cafe and sit outside and listen to waves and fog horns. It is so beautiful that there has never been a weekend when I have visited that someone is not getting their wedding photos done with the museum in the background.

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    • TriesToBeClassy says:
      15 September 2017 at 9:31 am

      I loved visiting the Legion of Honor and its surroundings! The Pacific ocean lapping against cliffs topped with lush vegetation..

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:39 am

      You are making me miss San Francisco :-)

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      • shellyw says:
        15 September 2017 at 11:58 am

        Most recently was Degas and the Millinery trade. My sister was a milliner so I saw it with her and went back 2 m ore times. They have been getting great exhibits. I love the building too. The “new” de Young (several years old now) is too modern in architecture for me, but they have great exhibits too.

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    • SFguy says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:07 am

      The Legion is a duplicate of a building in Paris.

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      • shellyw says:
        15 September 2017 at 11:52 am

        Yes but SF is 20 miles away and Paris is beyond my paycheck even if I did stop spending on perfume :)

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  2. hannahmom says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:28 am

    I chose Eiderantler by January Scent Project. The scent is green, aromatic and woody, which sounds like the smells one would experience in the photo.

    I also wanted something soft and soothing as someone stole my brand new lawnmower from my yard at some point yesterday. $600.00 down the tubes.

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    • Katrina says:
      15 September 2017 at 9:31 am

      Oh no! That’s terrible!!

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    • ringthing says:
      15 September 2017 at 9:34 am

      That’s awful! So sorry that happened to you.

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    • lillyjo says:
      15 September 2017 at 9:37 am

      How awful! People who steal are the worst!

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    • Wendysue says:
      15 September 2017 at 9:56 am

      Eiderantler is my favorite from that line- you smell great.

      So sorry about your lawnmower. Maybe they will use it and you’ll find it back on your lawn in a few days???

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      • eswift83 says:
        15 September 2017 at 1:47 pm

        How awful!! I’m so sorry to hear about your lawnmower! I had some friends that this sort of happened to – they had a nice bike stolen one afternoon, and later that evening a bike was returned… but it was not their bike! So I guess the thief had sort of a conscience? Regardless, I hope you catch the thief. Who steals a lawnmower?!?

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    • anarchkitty says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:17 am

      Oh that’s awful! Crossing my fingers that you recover it.

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    • Elisa P says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:01 am

      Wow. That’s low. I hope you find it and the thief.

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    • KellyC says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:25 am

      oh no, that’s horrible!!! I’m so sorry.

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    • ScentSpirit says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:42 am

      Oh, I’m so sorry that happened to you!

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    • Koyel says:
      15 September 2017 at 12:54 pm

      What!!! That’s awful :( I hope the scent is as soft and soothing as you need.

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    • Barqs says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:36 pm

      I’m sorry that happened to you :(

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    • Jalapeno says:
      15 September 2017 at 8:51 pm

      That’s terrible about your lawnmower.

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    • hajusuuri says:
      15 September 2017 at 9:55 pm

      Yikes! Hopefully homeowner’s insurance would pay but what a violation!

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  3. sterling925 says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:30 am

    I forgot about the picture challenge but chose Une Fleur de Cassie, which I suppose could fit, since it is complicated but pretty! Unfortunately my sample may have gone off (and/or I put too much on), because it’s sort of sharp and overwhelming me! Hoping it will settle down.

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:39 am

      Complicated but pretty works! Hope it has not gone off completely.

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    • Regina says:
      15 September 2017 at 12:11 pm

      How funny – I also forgot, but had planned to wear Fleur de Cassie! In my mind (which thinks of FdC as a very sexy scent) it went with the woman holding the arm of the man with the top hat, who looks like she would rather be somewhere else doing something shall we say much more interesting.

      But I forgot to wear perfume at all, and now must shoehorn one of my desk scents into the project. I’m going with Jasmin et Cigarette because… oh look there’s a cigarette held by the second guy from the left!

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  4. happy888cat says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:32 am

    TGIF!
    SOTD: Alien
    I feel like a real outsider when I look at this painting. The way they seemed to turn to “look at me” with a strong sense of indifference, much like I have interrupted their gathering; leaving me feeling a little cold.

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:40 am

      Oh nice choice!

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    • AnnS says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:42 am

      Nice! There is something slightly hostile about how all those people are glaring at the viewer! They’re about to sacrifice more than a bottle of wine on that table, lol!!!

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    • KellyC says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:26 am

      Great interpretation!

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    • Eldiyen says:
      15 September 2017 at 5:33 pm

      I get the same feeling, Alien was a great choice to match the interpretation!!

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    • Undina says:
      15 September 2017 at 9:33 pm

      I like your interpretation. Perfume is also not bad :)

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  5. Katrina says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:33 am

    I couldn’t quite get something to go with the picture but I am wearing Byredo Gypsy Water because it’s going to be hot and my fall allergies are kicking in and I needed something smooth.

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    • springpansy says:
      15 September 2017 at 9:39 am

      You smell wonderful!

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    • KellyC says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:26 am

      You smell great!

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  6. TriesToBeClassy says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:37 am

    I am doing Vilhelm Purple Fig and Modest Mimosa. Both fit the sun dappled Provencal background and are not quite exuberant, which fits the mood of the family. Though I can’t imagine how one could be grumpy in such a fantastic location!

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:40 am

      It that was your back terrace, you’d find a way to be grumpy there eventually, right?

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    • Laurels says:
      16 September 2017 at 5:48 am

      I went with fig as well.

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  7. Coumarin says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:38 am

    Vintage Cologne Imperiale. Sweet and sticky, full of bright citrus. Maybe one of them wore this at some point in life!

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    • Wendysue says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:13 am

      House twins. If I had CI, I would have worn it. I’m wearing Cologne du Parfumeur- classic and subdued.

      Gorgeous weather today. We are very fortunate. I spent a lot of last week making sure my mom in Florida was prepared. She went through Hurricane Charlie, but was obviously younger. Luckily, her complex has a generator.

      Wishing speedy recovery to all those affected by all the hurricanes.

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  8. ringthing says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:41 am

    I chose Silences today because Portia wrote about it on Perfume Posse yesterday and I realized it’s been a long time since I’ve worn it. Studying the painting again, I think Silences fits the scene – the dry, bitter greens are dark and speak to the coming winter and kind of captures the feeling I get of the group’s polite irritation at being interrupted.

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    • Undina says:
      15 September 2017 at 9:35 pm

      I almost bought a bottle after that review (but decided to finish my decant first :) ).

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    • hajusuuri says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:05 pm

      A very generous NSTer gifted me with a bottle of Silences!

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  9. jirish says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:41 am

    I am terrible at these picture challenges. If I had something with violet I would wear it, but I don’t. How could I not have anything with violet??!!! Instead, I’m wearing by Killian Rose Oud, just because it’s Friday, and it’s beautiful.

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    • Wendysue says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:13 am

      You smell fantastic!

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  10. mals86 says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:44 am

    Yyyyyeah, I got nothin’.

    I am just not very visually inclined. Except for colors. I do colors. :D In beloved Le Temps d’une Fete for a green-and-gold early autumn day.

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    • Vanie says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:04 am

      I’m with you on this one: colors and not much else.

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:43 am

      HA, you are saying we need another Pantone challenge then?

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      • mals86 says:
        15 September 2017 at 3:21 pm

        Yeah! I like those.

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  11. Elisa P says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:45 am

    Chanel Egoiste for the painter’s father who is looking away from the painter and almost looks irritated- I’m imagining he is scornful of his son who opted to paint instead of becoming a doctor as planned. The artist’s life maybe doesn’t quite jive with their Protestant values.
    And I love Egoiste and wonder why I don’t wear it more often!

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    • lillyjo says:
      15 September 2017 at 9:52 am

      I recently smelled Egoiste for the first time in many, many years, and thought dang, this smells really good! Glad you are enjoying it!

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      • Elisa P says:
        15 September 2017 at 2:22 pm

        It does smell really good. I’ve heard even beyter things about vintage versions but I’m happy with this newer stuff.

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    • Wendysue says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:14 am

      Fascinating choice for the project!

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    • Lovestosmellgood says:
      15 September 2017 at 12:02 pm

      that is a great choice!

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  12. pyramus says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:45 am

    I was struck by the tree that looms over the entire party — it’s a bright sunny day but they’re all enshrouded by its shade. I’m wearing Book by Commodity, which has a weird cucumberish opening but then turns into wood wood and more wood. (Overall I’m REALLY disappointed by the line, which is dominated by fresh clean synthetic smells, especially the White collection, but this one is nice.)

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    • tiffanie says:
      15 September 2017 at 7:19 pm

      I like your tree/fragrance connection. The tree in the painting looms overhead the way families give shelter and sometimes overwhelm.

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      • Laurels says:
        16 September 2017 at 5:53 am

        Excellent simile.

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  13. lucasai says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:50 am

    I am improvising with this one but the pucture feels kinda regal or aristocratic at least, so I wear Iris Fauve from Atelier des Ors.

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    • hajusuuri says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:10 pm

      Hey word twin! I was just using regal and aristocratic to describe an aunt yesterday!

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  14. chocolatemarzipan8 says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:54 am

    Phlur Greylocke to round off this challenging work week. Maybe someone can help me tie it into the CP :)

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    • Lovestosmellgood says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:21 am

      that is becoming your signature scent.

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      • chocolatemarzipan8 says:
        15 September 2017 at 12:01 pm

        Shockingly….because I really don’t like vetiver as a dominant note!

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  15. She-ra says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:55 am

    Agree with lucasai above regarding the painting and going w/ n. 19 Poudre to keep w/ the iris theme.

    Very excited for the Swapmeet tomorrow and, per missyl’s request, here is a preview of what I am trying to swap away…Robin, please remove if we aren’t supposed to preview our wares in advance. ;)

    1. Tauer Amber Flush Body Oil manufacturer’s 50 ml/1.7 oz spray; approx. 95% or more remaining
    2. Tauer Rose Delight Body Oil manufacturer’s 50 ml/ 1.7 oz spray; approx. 95% remaining
    3. Diptyque Philosykos EDP manufacturer’s 7.5 ml/.25 oz spray; approx. 66% remaining
    4. Diptyque Tam Dao EDP manufacturer’s 7.5 ml/.25 oz spray; approx. 95% or more remaining
    5. Guerlain Le Petite Robe Noire Couture EDP 30 ml/1 oz spray with original box; approx. 66% remaining
    6. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud EDP manufacturer’s 11 ml/.37 oz spray; approx. 80% or more remaining
    7. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Universali EDP manufacturer’s 11 ml/.37 oz spray; approx. 60% remaining
    8. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Universali Forte EDP manufacturer’s 11 ml/.37 oz spray; approx. 60% remaining
    9. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Vitae EDP manufacturer’s 11 ml/.37 oz spray; approx. 55% remaining
    10. Ex Nihilo Sweet Morphine EDP manufacturer’s 7.5 ml/.25 oz spray; approx. 55% remaining
    11. Ex Nihilo Love Shot EDP manufacturer’s 7.5 ml/.25 oz spray; approx. 66% remaining
    12. Atelier Cologne Bois Blonds Cologne Absolue manufacturer’s 7.5 ml/.25 oz spray; approx. 90% remaining
    13. Atelier Cologne Rose Anonyme Cologne Absolue manufacturer’s 7.5 ml/.25 oz spray; approx. 95% remaining
    14. Atelier Cologne Vetiver Fatal Cologne Absolue manufacturer’s 7.5 ml/.25 oz spray; approx. 85% remaining
    15. Neela Vermeire Mohur Extrait decant 10 ml/.33 oz spray; approx. 50% remaining

    I am in search of all things iris in return and am looking for spray decants of the following please:

    Iris Harmonique
    Iris Poudre
    Iris de Nuit
    Iris Silver Mist
    Iris Celadon
    Xerjoff Irisss
    Iris Nazarene
    1996
    L’Attesa
    Dzongkha

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:49 am

      There’s no rule against it, but if everybody did it, this would be unreadable as a SOTD poll :-)

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    • kpaint says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:32 am

      Ah! I have a dr appt today and No 19 Poudre sounds perfect. I’ve been meaning to pull that one out. Thanks for the reminder!

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    • Hera says:
      15 September 2017 at 9:57 pm

      I am excited for the swap too, you have a great list.
      I am dying to get the Mohur extrait, maybe we can discuss tomorrow.

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    • hajusuuri says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:12 pm

      Heh, looks like you are exploring Iris :-)

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  16. perfumelover67 says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:00 am

    Guerlain L’ Heure Bleue. The sky is bright and beautifully blue. I really love it! The people in the painting are somber? angry? sad? under the weather? They might not enjoy each other sometimes.

    That is my relationship with L’Heure Bleue. I love it, I enjoy it, but it is a complicated fragrance that sometimes  gets on my nerves. It might make my day cheerful or ruin it completely, but I would never get rid of it. L’ Heure Bleue is my beautiful but annoying family member. Always there!

    Have a happy Friday everyone!

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    • Elisa P says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:50 am

      Love your choice and tie-in to the painting! I kind of have the same relationship with LHB and don’t wear it that often. But it is a beauty, for sure.

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:50 am

      Great reasoning! Plus it gets you to LHB.

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    • Petunia says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:52 am

      Hey Twin!

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    • Wendysue says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:12 am

      Will wear LHB later to see how I feel. I’m very motivated by your post to see if I can connect with my perfumes in a more multidimensional way.

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      • perfumelover67 says:
        15 September 2017 at 2:41 pm

        I try to excercise my connections between perfumes and other things. Many times is not easy. It all depends how I feel about something. But I always have fun doing it.

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    • austenfan says:
      15 September 2017 at 12:02 pm

      Twin, although I find L’Heure Bleue one of my most comforting and serene fragrances, and the same can’t be said about my family.

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      • perfumelover67 says:
        15 September 2017 at 2:25 pm

        So insteresting how we all experience perfumes in different ways. That is the beauty of it!

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    • Gail says:
      15 September 2017 at 7:57 pm

      I racked my brain all week and had the same thoughts about the painting and I also arrived at Lh’B as well. Since I can’t wear fragrance to work during the week, I will wear it tomorrow as my SOTD.

      My SOTE is Meterorites. It was handy after work and jumped into my hand. It has been a long week as my manager quit to take a volunteer position with CUSO in Jamaica to help set up a recycling centre. She will be missed.

      Annoying family members you say? YES! Lots in my family.

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      • perfumelover67 says:
        15 September 2017 at 10:07 pm

        I hope your work load starts going down soon. Is on those busy days when a perfume becomes my best companion. So dissapointing you can not wear any at work.
        I am pretty sure you will enjoy L’Heure Bleue tomorrow.

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        • Gail says:
          15 September 2017 at 11:25 pm

          Thank you! I do tend to overspray as soon as I get home to make up for no fragrance during the day. It’s my serenity time..

          Looking forward to Lh’B as the weather has finally cooled off.

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  17. Vanie says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:01 am

    SOTD is Prada Infusion d’iris, which may or may not fit the image. Something in the colouring made me think of iris.

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 2:23 pm

      You were not alone in your choice, see below!

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    • tiffanie says:
      15 September 2017 at 7:29 pm

      Hi twin! We smell great. :)

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  18. SheriG says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:03 am

    I chose L’AP Bucoliques de Provence, for obvious reasons. But perhaps Chanel 19 might have been a better choice – to me all those people have a faint air of disdain, as if the artist just showed up and they’re thinking, “Father told us this painter fellow would be coming here to paint us, but we really didn’t think he was serious.”

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    • TriesToBeClassy says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:24 am

      I love your take on it, especially the “father blah blah” thoughts :D

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    • austenfan says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:31 am

      I love Bucoliques, you smell great.

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:51 am

      Plus, the father is about the only one that can’t be bothered to turn and look, ha.

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      • SheriG says:
        15 September 2017 at 4:12 pm

        Indeed!

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  19. Lovestosmellgood says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:11 am

    Having a rough morning, my toddler stepped on a tac in the playground.
    I picked Frescaessenza for today and for the painting

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    • Lovestosmellgood says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:58 am

      I had the same feeling as AnnS ( comment below) regarding the painting..thats why I went with a woody citrus that is very unisex.

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    • Elisa P says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:03 am

      Poor kiddo ???? Sounds like a rough morning.

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    • Wendysue says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:13 am

      I hope the rest of the day goes better.

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    • Lovestosmellgood says:
      15 September 2017 at 12:04 pm

      Just talked to the doctor, and there not much we can do now since I did everything I could, washed with soap and water..but on a band aid..even found a band aid in her favorite color..she is walking on her tippy toes on that foot. My poor little one. Maybe now when I ask her to put on her shoes she will actually do it. Fat chance though…

      Now for my break now that everyone is napping! Some MF tea and a good book!

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      • LizzieB says:
        15 September 2017 at 1:52 pm

        Poor thing. But I agree…fat chance. I was a barefoot kid and I never learned.

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  20. Bear says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:11 am

    Triple strength coffee.
    Workout.
    Portrait of a Lady.
    Both have portrait in the name.
    I like the artist’s portrait of Renoir with the odd legs in the air pose. Anyone know the story behind that?
    Robin, can you describe your SOTD ?
    :D
    Carpe Diem.
    Peace.

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:48 am

      Neroli & orange blossom with lots of spices — very young and energetic and alive. Basically it’s a classic aromatic cologne.

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      • tiffanie says:
        15 September 2017 at 6:57 pm

        A cologne for the artist is fitting. He deserves notice rather than a hiding place in the painting. I thought of wearing L’Artisan L’eau du Caporal, also citrus+aromatics, for that reason. Caporal means corporal, a connection to Bazille’s military service.

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        • Robin says:
          15 September 2017 at 11:27 pm

          Oh drat, I know I’ve tried it but can’t remember it at all! Brain cannot hold onto the memory of so many fragrances.

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          • tiffanie says:
            16 September 2017 at 12:23 pm

            L’eau de Caporal feels green and cool from the lavender and geranium, very nicely aromatic. I love colognes so it works well for me, but I can’t imagine it’s a big crowd pleaser. It reminds me of Irish Spring bar soap from decades ago, quite comforting.

    • SheriG says:
      15 September 2017 at 4:15 pm

      This is two days in a row when your workout was merely “workout” as opposed to “extra long workout” — are you okay, Bear? ;)

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      • Bear says:
        15 September 2017 at 6:19 pm

        Thanks SheriG!
        I appreciate your concern.
        Everything is fine no complaints.
        Not looking forward to colder weather, but time waits for nobody.
        I don’t wanna look TOO good, do I ?
        LOLOLOL
        ;)
        Cheers!

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        • kpaint says:
          15 September 2017 at 6:49 pm

          LOL (I’ll adopt that as my excuse for “no workout,” too ;) )

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          • Undina says:
            15 September 2017 at 11:43 pm

            :)

  21. karen B says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:11 am

    The painting didn’t inspire any strong opinions or feelings except regret, when I learned the artist died so young. I think he could have enjoyed a brilliant career. I didn’t read a lot into the portrait, either, thinking it to be characteristic of the time. If I could settle on a scent, it would be one of sadness–for times gone by (for those in the picture) and for the artist’s interrupted life. Any suggestions?

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    • Koenigsberg says:
      15 September 2017 at 12:01 pm

      For the name, Frapin “Nevermore”.
      For the melancholy air, Paul Schütze “Tears of Eros” or Guerlain “L’Heure Bleue”.

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      • karen B says:
        15 September 2017 at 1:21 pm

        Thank you. I think I still have a little L’Heure Bleu, but the setting is so different from that time of day that I can’t wear it. And I don’t have the others you suggested, but I appreciate the ideas.

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    • kpaint says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:48 pm

      Misia? I find it to be nostalgic if not a bit melancholy.

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  22. Dawn says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:15 am

    It’s my birthday today and I haven’t gotten into the shower yet and I am currently enjoying Sarrasins. I think today is a great day to stick with Sarrasins.

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    • Bear says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:19 am

      Happy birthday Dawn!
      Many more.

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    • Calypso says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:23 am

      Happy Birthday!

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    • perfumelover67 says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:30 am

      Happy birthday! Enjoy!

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    • austenfan says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:31 am

      Happy Birthday and a great pick!

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    • sweetgrass says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:32 am

      Happy birthday!

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    • Lovestosmellgood says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:44 am

      Happy Birthday and many more to come! Enjoy your fragrant day

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    • Elisa P says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:52 am

      Happy Birthday and you smell fantastic!

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    • Petunia says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:53 am

      Happy Birthday!

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:54 am

      Hope it is a lovely day!

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    • lillyjo says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:59 am

      Happy Birthday!

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    • Wendysue says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:14 am

      Happy Birthday! You smell glorious.

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    • Glannys says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:49 am

      Happy birthday! I hope it’s going to be a great day for you.

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    • Undina says:
      15 September 2017 at 12:08 pm

      Happy Birthday!

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    • LizzieB says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:52 pm

      Happy birthday!

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    • Kanuka says:
      15 September 2017 at 2:04 pm

      Happy birthday Dawn! I hope the year goes well for you and you have lots of fun and love!

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    • Gaynor says:
      15 September 2017 at 3:25 pm

      Happy birthday!

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    • KellyC says:
      15 September 2017 at 5:20 pm

      Have a great day!

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    • Lillibet says:
      15 September 2017 at 6:54 pm

      Happy Birthday!

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    • tiffanie says:
      15 September 2017 at 7:34 pm

      oh, happy day! I hope it was lovely.

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    • Gail says:
      15 September 2017 at 8:04 pm

      Happy birthday! Hope it’s been a fantastic day.

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    • missyl says:
      15 September 2017 at 8:10 pm

      Happy birthday! That’s a great pick.

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    • Jalapeno says:
      15 September 2017 at 8:54 pm

      Happy and beautifully scented Birthday!

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    • hajusuuri says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:18 pm

      Happy birthday, Dawn!

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  23. PriscillaE says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:17 am

    I am wearing Un Jardin en Méditerranée, because I am imagining the Mediterranean just out of the picture. I know everyone thinks that the majority of the people in the picture look irritated, but just take a larger look at the young lady sitting on the wall of the terrace. She is leaning forward, with her chin in her hand, looking solemn but interested. I have been focusing on her each day as I look at the picture.

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    • austenfan says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:33 am

      I entirely agree. If you click on the link Robin provided you can see the bigger picture (no pun intended) and then they don’t seem quite so aloof, just curious and rather reserved.

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    • Calypso says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:46 am

      She is his cousin, I found from reading more about the painting. Here’s a nice review from NPR: http://www.npr.org/2017/05/31/529539229/meet-fr-d-ric-bazille-the-impressionist-painter-who-could-have-been.
      It attributes some of the awkwardness here to the facts that Bazille was still rather young and not a “natural” at painting like Monet was.
      My SOTD went along the lines of yours, gardens, as I was struck by the beautiful greens and blues of the scene. I’m wearing Jardin du Poete by Eau d’italia.

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      • Petunia says:
        15 September 2017 at 10:56 am

        Maybe the subjects where just tired of posing

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        • Petunia says:
          15 September 2017 at 10:56 am

          were

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    • Lillibet says:
      15 September 2017 at 8:49 pm

      Twins! We smell gorgeous!

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      • Laurels says:
        16 September 2017 at 6:09 am

        Triplets!

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  24. tiffanie says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:24 am

    SotD = Infusion d’Iris edt

    When I look at the painting my eyes go to the green shadows on the faces of the two young women in dotted dresses. Infusion d’Iris looks like a green shadow in the bottle and has a vaporous feeling in the way it smells too.

    NST, have a fabulous, fragrant Friday! I’m looking forward to reading everyone’s choices

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 2:23 pm

      Those were clearly the ladies who left their things on the ground, too :-)

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      • tiffanie says:
        15 September 2017 at 6:47 pm

        ha! I hadn’t thought of that. Perhaps they are teenager, the flowers and hat on the ground their act of subtle rebellion.

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  25. anarchkitty says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:24 am

    Well I’m a failure for the picture challenge. It has suddenly turned cold here in the last week, and those blues just make me shiver. At the beginning of the week I blind bought a bottle of Krazy Krizia as a reaction to the change in weather (it wasn’t expensive, but still), and I’m trying it for the first time today.

    Ooh, the decade is unmistakeable, and it makes me think of bonfire night (or Halloween on the USA side)! All apples and boots and warm coats and gloves and hats. I feel like I should be wearing a printed or devore velvet dress undernath all this, perhaps for a party I’m going to later.

    Couldn’t wear it every day, but it is quite fabulous if you overlook the loudness (and that is one spray)!

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 2:24 pm

      Glad your blind buy worked out, enjoy!

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    • Laurels says:
      16 September 2017 at 6:12 am

      I think I have a sample of Krazy somewhere. Tomorrow I’ll have to hunt for it, so as not to be tempted into a blind buy. Glad it was fabulous!

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  26. cazaubon says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:25 am

    Going with the elegant theme others have mentioned – I chose Misia edt. I imagine the ladies smelling of violets and iris with their cosmetics and silks.

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    • eswift83 says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:54 pm

      I almost chose that one!!! Ultimately it didn’t feel right for today for me, but it goes with the painting so well. :)

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  27. Lisa D says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:28 am

    Given the conversation about smiling yesterday, I’m going to perceive the facial expressions in the painting as “appropriately serious to the occasion,” rather than unhappy.

    I haven’t applied any scent yet, but I might go with Bois de Paradis.

    I’m having my very first Coconut Matcha Latte this morning. The flavor of green tea is comforting and familiar to me from my childhood (mum is from Japan), but it never occurred to me to add coconut milk. It’s kinda tasty, in that “half-caff-extra-foam-skim-milk-with-a-pump-of-salted-caramel” way.

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    • Lisa D says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:11 am

      Completely forgot about the upcoming swap and split meets! Timing is wrong for the swap, but if anybody has their eye on the Cire Trudon scents, I very nearly bought the coffret this morning, and it would take much less than a nudge (a sideways glance oughta do it) for me to enter into a split.

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      • Elisa P says:
        15 September 2017 at 11:25 am

        I had the same idea. I really only want Mortel out of the coffret…

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      • TriesToBeClassy says:
        15 September 2017 at 4:23 pm

        I plan to do a Bruma split ;-)

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        • Robin says:
          15 September 2017 at 11:28 pm

          That one is my favorite.

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    • Undina says:
      15 September 2017 at 12:11 pm

      I like Bois de Paradise and keep checking the brand’s site for smaller bottles :)

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  28. Koenigsberg says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:29 am

    SOTD is Teo Cabanel “Lace Garden”.

    Top: ylang-ylang and lemon;
    Mid: tuberose, jasmine, orange blossom and magnolia;
    Base: vanilla, woody notes, benzoin and powdery notes.

    It’s what you’d expect (or at least, what I’d expect) from a Teo Cabanel white floral: nicely made, subtle, feminine and only medium lasting powers. The lemon adds a welcome fresh feel.

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    • Lovestosmellgood says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:49 am

      You are reminding me to break out Alahiiiiine

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      • Wendysue says:
        15 September 2017 at 11:17 am

        As if you need a reminder
        :-D …
        Lace Garden is an inspired choice.

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        • Lovestosmellgood says:
          15 September 2017 at 11:19 am

          Truth!

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      • AngelaB says:
        15 September 2017 at 6:38 pm

        There you are!!! Nice to hear your familiar call!! ;)

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    • mals86 says:
      15 September 2017 at 3:25 pm

      Lace Garden is very pretty.

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  29. TriesToBeClassy says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:30 am

    Question re: swapmeet vs splitmeet: I have a couple new bottles I would like to split; is it ok if I do a few swaps then split the remainder? Please feel free to delete if this is not the right place to ask!

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    • Lovestosmellgood says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:50 am

      You may have to wait until the split meet for the ladder part..but Robin is the queen bee so I will let her chime in.

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:58 am

      You want to swap some decants, and then later sell some decants? And the bottles are new? It’s fine with me, but I think when the splitmeet starts in October you should mention the age of the bottle. I am sure many people don’t care but others might — I usually expect when splitting something that’s it’s a bottle newly acquired for the purpose of splitting.

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      • TriesToBeClassy says:
        15 September 2017 at 11:11 am

        Both have been just acquired for the purpose of splitting. I misremembered and thought the splitmeet was a week after the swapmeet. I will only do splits then. Thank you for your clarification :)

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        • Robin says:
          15 September 2017 at 1:33 pm

          Oh no, if you’ve already bought them and want to swap, why not? There’s no rule against it. The rule is against offering splits from old bottles.

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          • kpaint says:
            15 September 2017 at 1:54 pm

            Because they’re not brand new and freshly opened?

          • Robin says:
            15 September 2017 at 2:26 pm

            Correct. The idea of a split is you’re splitting a new bottle, that is, you’re sharing the cost and the product. Otherwise, you’re just selling decants. There is nothing wrong with selling decants but there is also no need for us to host an event for people to do so — not least because it is asking for trouble in all kinds of ways.

          • TriesToBeClassy says:
            15 September 2017 at 4:27 pm

            Sounds good! Though I will still wait til the splitmeet this time :D Also- I just realized that the swap/free/split dates are in the right sidebar. D’oh.

          • kpaint says:
            15 September 2017 at 6:52 pm

            Okay – so the rules are what I always thought they were :) (The difference between selling decants and pooling money for a bottle.) I just hadn’t thought about any kind of verification that the bottle is “fresh” versus “opened at some earlier point in its lifespan.” Thanks for clarifying.

        • hajusuuri says:
          15 September 2017 at 10:30 pm

          My personal rule for splits is that the bottle has to be brand new / still shrinkwrapped. I try to source my bottles at the lowest possible price and may have them for several months before the splitmeet to catch a promotion. I’ve also done splits where I gauge the interest before buying the bottle.

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      • kpaint says:
        15 September 2017 at 1:53 pm

        Huh. I never thought to make that assumption, either as a splitter or splittee. Or when buying decants. I have to say it’s something that would never have crossed my mind.

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  30. Jiji says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:32 am

    SotD is Romanza

    Wowzie this smells good when it gets colder!
    And its a bit sinister, in a good way. :)

    I think a raw landscape painting would fit Romanza (Barbizon, a darker Van Gogh), or maybe even one of the PreRafaelites…), not the pic of today though. I would have worn Un jardin en mediterranee or something like that with it. But I was not in the mood for it…

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    • tiffanie says:
      15 September 2017 at 7:42 pm

      You smell great! Romanza smells different for me depending on the weather. I like it best on a cold day.

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  31. austenfan says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:34 am

    I find pictures mostly hard to match to a fragrance, so I went with colour, and the dominant colour in this painting being blue, I went for the obvious and chose L’Heure Bleue as my SOTD. It’s insanely good.

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    • Petunia says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:59 am

      I guess a few of us came up with the same idea. It is lovely.

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    • Vanie says:
      15 September 2017 at 3:31 pm

      Good choice!

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  32. sweetgrass says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:37 am

    I didn’t have a lot that I felt appropriate for the picture challenge today, so I decided to think about the time period and pick something that might’ve existed within these people’s lifetimes. So I dug out my sample of Jicky and went with that. It’s a bit later than the painting, but only by about 20 years or so.

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 2:27 pm

      Jicky is perfect for anything, right?

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    • Laurels says:
      16 September 2017 at 6:17 am

      Beautiful choice, and perfectly apt.

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  33. AnnS says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:47 am

    SOTD for this picture challenge is most definitely AG Eau de Sud. It’s French, it’s outdoorsy and lush and herbal, it’s for men and women, and it’s just darn good. Bonus points for me: after I applied this morning, my husband was coming into our room. He was like – wow!! that smells good. Then he proceeded to ask if he could wear some too. And he almost NEVER wears fragrance except maybe once or twice a year.

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    • Glannys says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:00 am

      Oh, I thought about it too when I was trying to match a scent to that picture! Definitely lush and outdoorsy.

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    • Lovestosmellgood says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:20 am

      I felt the same as you re:painting

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    • Regina says:
      15 September 2017 at 12:16 pm

      Nice choice. That is one of my absolute favorites for outdoors!

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    • LizzieB says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:54 pm

      I need to smell that again…cannot remember it much. Lush and herbal…don’t often see those together. Sounds perfect.

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    • Koyel says:
      15 September 2017 at 3:48 pm

      Nice :) glad the husband likes it so much!

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    • hajusuuri says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:31 pm

      You’ve trained him well :-)

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  34. Glannys says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:47 am

    Interesting and creative interpretation, Robin.
    I had the same idea as Bear and was going to wear Portrait of a Lady, but today I felt I wanted something different. So I chose the scent based on the overall feel this picture gives me. Yardley Lily of the Valley – lush greenness (look at those trees) with something slightly stiff and formal (check the postures of the people).

    PSA for readers of everything fragrance related and especially for fans of Agonist. The latest edition of My Volvo Magazine (Winter 2017/2018) has an article on this house titled “Learning the secret language of scent”. You can read it by downloading My Volvo Magazine app (available for iPad and Android tablets). Warning: the app itself was quick to download, but then you have to open the app, select and download the magazine itself, and it takes a while.

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    • Barqs says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:45 pm

      Interesting. I’ll read it later today.

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  35. Petunia says:
    15 September 2017 at 10:47 am

    I am wearing L’Heure Bleue today. It’s the first scent that came to mind when I looked at the portrait. It matches the mood and the color, IMHO.

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    • austenfan says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:56 am

      Well our hearts seem to beat as one!

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      • Petunia says:
        15 September 2017 at 11:00 am

        How lovely! I guess they do.

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    • Barqs says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:43 pm

      great choice! You both smell lovely.

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      • Petunia says:
        15 September 2017 at 5:57 pm

        ????

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    • perfumelover67 says:
      15 September 2017 at 2:17 pm

      Hi twin!

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      • Petunia says:
        15 September 2017 at 2:44 pm

        Hey there!

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  36. Deva says:
    15 September 2017 at 11:05 am

    Totally forgot perfume before I dashed out the door this morning. Luckily, I have a travel size Vetiver Tonka in my work bag.

    I think it works with the painting- maybe a bit short lived, like the painter himself.

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    • Koyel says:
      15 September 2017 at 3:52 pm

      :( what an aptly sad link.

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    • Laurels says:
      16 September 2017 at 6:19 am

      I hadn’t thought of that aspect when I chose my own short-lived perfume, but it fits.

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  37. floragal says:
    15 September 2017 at 11:08 am

    This painting is enjoyable to look at as there’s a lot going on. I especially like the landscape, the green & blue of the leaves and sky.
    I’m wearing Calling all Angels which is a stuffy, high-church scent and the overall impression I get from this painting – stuffiness, very little skin and seriousness.

    I like when artists put themselves into the painting like this. My husband has one such painting where you see him among a crowd of people.

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    • Elisa P says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:23 am

      I’d love to see your husband’s work!

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      • floragal says:
        15 September 2017 at 11:57 am

        Thank you. I’ll send you a link!

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  38. lillyjo says:
    15 September 2017 at 11:12 am

    Sotd is Jasmin Angelique. Honestly, I picked it for the name and green color and sharp opening. I suppose it fits the painting. I will most likely wear something else a little more fun for work later.

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    • Petunia says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:29 pm

      I read somewhere that women wore jasmine during this period so you’re in the right ballpark.

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      • lillyjo says:
        15 September 2017 at 3:44 pm

        Good to know. I wasn’t quite sure.

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    • Barqs says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:42 pm

      Jasmin Angelique is beautiful!

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      • lillyjo says:
        15 September 2017 at 3:49 pm

        Thanks! I like it better each time I wear it.

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      • AngelaB says:
        15 September 2017 at 6:48 pm

        Yes, also a great choice!! I love it & the Angelique really works for the green – and it MUST be France!
        I would have chosen & worn Arboke Arboke if I hadn’t lost my sample. The tree gathers around them all!!

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        • AngelaB says:
          15 September 2017 at 6:51 pm

          yikes!! That ‘s ARBOLE ARBOLE ! Scusi!!;)

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  39. nicolasix says:
    15 September 2017 at 11:24 am

    Settled on FM’s Eau de Magnolia for today. While I’m sure that’s not a magnolia tree in the painting, it seemed to fit the mood. Plus, I wanted to wear it one more time before the weather cools off.

    Happy weekend, all!

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    • shellyw says:
      15 September 2017 at 2:37 pm

      I loved the baht gel for Magnolia :)

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    • Vanie says:
      15 September 2017 at 3:32 pm

      You smell great!

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  40. Gi says:
    15 September 2017 at 11:39 am

    My plan was to wear PdN Sacrebleu Intense. The subjects appear a bit annoyed, like they are all saying something to themselves like “Sacrebleu! When will this be over already!” They also look pretty intense, too.

    Unfortunately, my sample has evaporated so I went with another sample that was in the same box: Keiko Mecheri Attar de Roses. I don’t remember giving this one much of a try before but quite like this leathery rose.

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    • Petunia says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:12 pm

      Your justification for Sacrebleu made me smile. ????

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    • hajusuuri says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:35 pm

      Haha, oh for goodness sake, enough already with staring. Scram!

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  41. KellyC says:
    15 September 2017 at 11:48 am

    I am in Philosykos for no other reason that I feel like figs would be perfect like on a day as in the painting….figs, some cheese, some wine and warm weather….just perfect.

    I rather like the painting and do not feel it’s stuffy. I think they look curious and the weather seems so warm and inviting…a warm day in the shade of beautiful green trees!

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    • KellyC says:
      15 September 2017 at 11:58 am

      Oh and also, I got my first paycheck today from my new job in NM….I feel some celebratory decants are in order. :D

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      • perfumelover67 says:
        15 September 2017 at 12:28 pm

        Yay! Good for your 1st paycheck. Celebrate in a fragrant way! ;)

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      • Gail says:
        15 September 2017 at 8:15 pm

        Congrats! And treat yourself..

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      • Jalapeno says:
        15 September 2017 at 8:57 pm

        Hurray for the first paycheck! Sounds like you are settling in just fine…

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      • hajusuuri says:
        15 September 2017 at 10:36 pm

        Yay! Feels like home already!

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      • Undina says:
        16 September 2017 at 12:07 am

        Congratulations!
        Are you sure you need decants? Maybe you should save for a nice bottle of something you really like? If NM stands for what I think it does, you should have enough opportunities to try something and decide if you want it.

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    • nicolasix says:
      15 September 2017 at 12:31 pm

      Congrats on the paycheck! I wore Philosykos earlier this week in honor of the painting.

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    • Barqs says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:41 pm

      You smell great in your Philosykos!

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    • kpaint says:
      15 September 2017 at 6:54 pm

      Congrats and I hope the move is going smoothly!

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    • Lillibet says:
      15 September 2017 at 6:57 pm

      Love Philosykos and also now craving cheese, wine and figs…

      Congrats and you should definitely reward yourself!

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  42. Kathryn says:
    15 September 2017 at 11:50 am

    Looking at the painting, that little assemblage of a bouquet, hat, and umbrella on the floor of the terrace struck me as odd. Those still, aloof, and decorous people don’t seem like they’d toss those things on the ground, especially when there are other available surfaces to put things on. Wouldn’t the hat get dusty? Wouldn’t the flowers wilt? In any case, what is a white peony doing there in what otherwise seems to be a summer scene?

    The reason for all that, reading the notes about the painting, seems to be that an initial attempt to paint some little dogs there was unsuccessful and the still life was superimposed. A palimpsest! So that’s what I put on, a dab of Aftelier Palimpsest.

    That unfortunately turned out to be a little too appropriate. The phenyl acetic acid in it didn’t smell like sun and honey this morning as it usually does, but instead was a bit urinous. Maybe those little dogs were banished because they misbehaved.

    Scrubbing that, I’m back to my initial impression that those assembled would smell reserved and expensive, perhaps like the peony and roses of that bouquet. Wearing MDCI Rose de Siwa is much more pleasant and comfortable, a bit of a relief after the intensity of Palimpsest. Sometimes it doesn’t pay to look too far beneath the surface.

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    • Elisa P says:
      15 September 2017 at 12:02 pm

      I enjoyed your line of thinking! And you smell lovely! I wore RdS yesterday and it was, indeed, pleasant.

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    • Petunia says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:15 pm

      Lovely choice!

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:34 pm

      Yes, I wish he’d kept the dogs! It’s exactly what it needs.

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    • Koyel says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:37 pm

      Clever :)

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    • Undina says:
      16 September 2017 at 12:14 am

      Great idea, even though the original choice didn’t work out for you. I read about the dogs but it didn’t register.

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  43. LizzieB says:
    15 September 2017 at 11:54 am

    I also like this painting…a lot. The colors…the stripes of the dresses and the dotted swiss fabrics. Were they having a relaxed afternoon and then had to stop and look at the camera/artist, which might have been vaguely annoying?

    Then again, I simly like the colors of the landscape… made me think of wearing SSS Jour Ensoleille again because that’s what I’m guessing this setting smells like. A warm, dry day with soft relief in the shade….

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    • eswift83 says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:52 pm

      Mmm, great choice!

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  44. Hamamelis says:
    15 September 2017 at 12:08 pm

    I am commando on my last day in Spain. If I would be at home I think I would have worn Sables as immortelle fits the dust and smell of sunlight on sand. Immortelle also fits the idea that, although everyone in the picture is long gone, a part of them lives on in the painting. Robin can we have an Immortelle community project?

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    • LizzieB says:
      15 September 2017 at 12:18 pm

      Sables is a great choice!

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    • Robin says:
      15 September 2017 at 2:33 pm

      How about immortelle or mimosa or …? Something else too, to make it a wider net?

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      • Hamamelis says:
        15 September 2017 at 3:30 pm

        Excellent idea! Maybe lavender as another Mediterranean note? Or honey? Thanks for considering!

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      • Koenigsberg says:
        15 September 2017 at 6:40 pm

        Well, you could broaden it into a related theme with an extra point for something literally made with immortelle. Like “My Undying Love” if we’re up for a spot of communal bosom-heaving, or “Immortal or just Undead?” for Hallowe’en. :^)

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  45. Koyel says:
    15 September 2017 at 12:40 pm

    Making an effort to fit into the community project, I am wearing TDC Kashan Rose, which feels like as much of a soft, proto-impressionist expression as the painting is. My blouse matches the color of the perfume (not synesthetically, but literally and to all–most–people; the liquid of Kashan Rose is a lovely pink color).

    This has been a long week, friends. I need to sleep more. Maybe I should stop starting projects.

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    • shellyw says:
      15 September 2017 at 2:39 pm

      THC has a few that seem impressionistic

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      • Koyel says:
        15 September 2017 at 2:43 pm

        That autocorrect is awesome.

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        • kpaint says:
          15 September 2017 at 6:55 pm

          *snorts tea*

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        • Elisa P says:
          15 September 2017 at 7:32 pm

          Ha! Took me a sec.

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  46. flopper says:
    15 September 2017 at 12:50 pm

    Working on my Cuir de Russie EDP sample. Going to finish the Beige EDT decant I have. That one is nice also. Nothing to do with the painting. Unless they were riding horses but I don’t get too much leather from CdR so it’s a stretch.

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  47. hajusuuri says:
    15 September 2017 at 1:14 pm

    SOTD = Hermes EdM Bleue

    We were allowed to wear jeans today, with a suggestion to wear red, white or blue. Since I work for a conservative company, I tend not to look a gift horse in the mouth. Besides blue jeans, I wore a red white AND blue top and bracelet and blue / clear precious and semi-precious stone earrings and ring. So, not only dis “Bleue” match the blues prevalemt on the paintimg, it also matches my outfit!

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    • Barqs says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:40 pm

      perfect!

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    • eswift83 says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:51 pm

      You pulled everything together!

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    • LizzieB says:
      15 September 2017 at 1:56 pm

      Nice!

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    • kpaint says:
      15 September 2017 at 2:28 pm

      What was the deal with the workplace color theme? *wonders if there’s a civic holiday I’m unaware of*

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      • hajusuuri says:
        15 September 2017 at 9:06 pm

        Yesterday was orange – even the HR person who was part of the planning committee for the week-long series of activities had no clue as to the color’s significance. Today’s colors are more logical for patriotism and we use some of these colors in our advertising.

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    • KellyC says:
      15 September 2017 at 5:23 pm

      So wonderful!

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    • AngelaB says:
      15 September 2017 at 7:19 pm

      You are rocking it Hajusuuri!’

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    • Gail says:
      15 September 2017 at 8:24 pm

      Knocked it out of the park!

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    • Jalapeno says:
      15 September 2017 at 8:58 pm

      Well played!

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    • hajusuuri says:
      15 September 2017 at 9:38 pm

      Thanks, everyone! This morning, I facilitated a video conference with 25+ people (as I have since last Thursday, including the weekend). While we were waiting for more people to join, I described being an overachiever when it came to being on theme and showed off my shirt and accessories. It was a good light-hearted start to our last call regarding the impact of Hurricane Irma; as devastating as it was and many people are still feeling the effects, it could have been much worse. My company has done (and continues to do) so much and yet there are still many with needs and, on the flip side, some who make a career out of taking advantage of the company’s generosity.

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    • Undina says:
      16 September 2017 at 1:35 am

      You did great! The most important part is that you still have spirit for doing both you work place theme and community project – despite the workload.

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  48. foxbins says:
    15 September 2017 at 1:28 pm

    I think the picture’s subjects look stiff and haughty, so I am in Diaghilev. It demands good posture when I wear it, and I end up feeling quite uncomfortable and rather like I’m wearing someone else’s dressy clothes. I’ll probably swap it, it’s not “me” at all.

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    • Elisa P says:
      15 September 2017 at 2:16 pm

      I gave away my little decant of that for the same reason. Too grand and opulent for me. I still have some Jubilation 25 which I thought was similar, but felt more me since it’s more rugged in comparison, though I never wear that either, really.

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    • Undina says:
      16 September 2017 at 1:37 am

      For me it’s not a question of “me”/”not me” – I just do not like that perfume.

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  49. Barqs says:
    15 September 2017 at 1:39 pm

    Prada Infusion d’Oeillet. I’m sending some lovely carnation vibes their way to turn their smiles upside down. I hope this family gathering turned happier as this day went on :)

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  50. eswift83 says:
    15 September 2017 at 1:50 pm

    Started the day off with Givenchy Neroli Originel, from a lovely swapper from the last swapmeet. Then I saw this post! So I’m in Iris Ukiyoe, which is beautiful, but I’m not sure it’s the perfect fit for the painting. Maybe I’ll have better luck next time.

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  51. missionista says:
    15 September 2017 at 1:50 pm

    I haven’t been able to read the other comments yet, but I want to say I LOVE scenting a work of art! let’s do more!

    I went with a very generic French connection–They’re in France, there’s greenery that looks specific to the place, so I am wearing Lostmarc’h’s Ael-Mat, which is based on a plant specific to Brittany.

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  52. Kanuka says:
    15 September 2017 at 2:00 pm

    I really like how the transistions of blue lead your eye across the canvas from left to right : first the dark blue dress on the left, then the same dark blue but only as a sash on the middle figure, then the lighter blue of her dress passing over to the pale blue dress on the right, and off to the sky. So, I’m going with blue but also the idea of a captured moment, a pause…an Interlude ( in a gorgeous blue bottle).

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  53. Undina says:
    15 September 2017 at 2:53 pm

    I spent way too much time reading about this painting – and I even don’t like it! But since I’m awful at scenting anything, I was looking for inspiration.
    First I thought of going with the color (blue for the dresses in the picture or red – since that would have caused the participants of that family gathering to look at me like that, had I arrived dressed not to the current fashion). But then I read somewhere that the way it painted, the painting is considered not a group portrait but rather a group of individual portraits. So I went with a member of another family that seems similar in spirit – Penhaligon’s Portraits. I’m wearing The Revenge of Lady Blanche (from a sample). I like both iris and narcissus in it but it is too fleeting for this collection’s price.

    Happy Friday everyone!

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    • Petunia says:
      15 September 2017 at 5:54 pm

      Nice choice!

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    • kpaint says:
      15 September 2017 at 6:56 pm

      Ha! Clever.

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    • AngelaB says:
      15 September 2017 at 7:20 pm

      Great work!!

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  54. therabbitsflower says:
    15 September 2017 at 3:11 pm

    I chose Guerlain Attrape Coeur, which I think is a more serious classical perfume that has a cosmetics violet-iris vibe. I thought it matched the mood of the family. As a bonus, it allowed me to finish off yet another decant. ????

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    • kpaint says:
      15 September 2017 at 6:59 pm

      Congrats! After offloading boxes of stuff before moving, and swearing off sample orders (or at least vastly minimizing them) I’ve managed to finish off tons of samples over the past few months. I have a few summer decants I may not finish this season, but I really should. One reason for getting rid of/slowing down orders is discovering how much they are a use it or lose it proposition. I’ve lost tons of stuff to evaporation from season to season.

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      • therabbitsflower says:
        15 September 2017 at 9:26 pm

        Ugh, tell me about it. Evaporation is such a bummer

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  55. waterdragon says:
    15 September 2017 at 3:33 pm

    Good morning, NST. I’m late again–I slept long and heavily and I feel wonderful! What I’m going to do with all this wonderfulness is merely the housework, but even that will be satisfying, because the mess in my house is astounding. The kittens make toys out of anything they can bat, tow, toss, pounce on, wrap themselves in, or fight with. When they get bored, they abandon that love object and find something new. I’d be ashamed if a visitor stopped by before I finish de-messing the house.

    I’m contemplating all this domestic activity wearing TF Vetiver Babylon from a sample Kanuka just sent me. I love it: it’s fresh and crisp and interesting. I haven’t looked up the notes, but it strikes me has a juicy, slightly, very slightly, sweet citrus (orange? mandarin?) with a deep vetiver base, perfect for the activities of my day. Speaking of those activities, time has marched on without me, and I’d better go and catch up with the passing hours. Be well, all. Stay safe and fragrant.

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    • Kanuka says:
      15 September 2017 at 3:47 pm

      You’ve got Gaynor to thank for that well traveled sample. The sun is shining today-hurray! Have a nice weekend.

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    • kpaint says:
      15 September 2017 at 7:00 pm

      A long and heavy sleep is a wonderful, restorative, and often elusive thing. May you experience another soon.

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    • Laurels says:
      16 September 2017 at 6:30 am

      I envy you that sleep. Vetiver Babylon sounds wonderful. I liked Atelier Cologne’s Vetiver Fatal, which has similar notes, but it disappeared from my nose in less than an hour.

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  56. Gaynor says:
    15 September 2017 at 3:40 pm

    I decided that the people in the painting weren’t irritated, but just having a serious moment on a nice day, so will be wearing a spot of Ninfeo Mio as soon as I finish my breakfast. That always seems appropriate for blue sky and green trees.

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  57. Creosote says:
    15 September 2017 at 3:48 pm

    Happy Friday, NST!

    Ugh, I just accidentally erased my post before I finished! So, here goes again… My idea was to go pretty literal and scent the painting with something appropriate not only to the visual effect but also to the setting and subjects. So, a cologne…a French cologne. Violà: Guerlain Eau de Cologne Impéiale! The herbal notes fit the greenery of the terrace and background, and the fragrance was already in existence at the time (and likely in financial reach of Bazille’s well-off family). Unfortunately, I don’t actually have it, so I’m in a modern-day substitute: MFK Petit Matin.

    Take care, all, and have a lovely weekend!

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    • hajusuuri says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:45 pm

      LOL, I was about to ask you where you got Eau de Cologne Imperiale!

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  58. Aparatchick says:
    15 September 2017 at 6:28 pm

    I really like this painting. I do wish he’d left the dogs in it rather than that odd collection of objects, and I’d I lived back then I’d covet that gorgeous blue dress.

    I went with PdE Osmanthus Interdite; the combination of fruit and floral and tea seemed appropriate.

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  59. kpaint says:
    15 September 2017 at 7:06 pm

    Not really participating, and somewhat perplexed by people’s responses to the painting. Started the early morning with Prada Infusion Vetiver, then dabbed on a bit of Fendi Palazzo, then headed out for an appointment (that ended up taking 2 hours for a 10 minute consult 0_0) sprayed down in No 19 Poudre. I hadn’t really thought about the similarities between the Prada Infusions and 19 Poudre, but there’s a strong connection. I’d also forgotten how gorgeous the Poudre opening is.

    Surprisingly I can still smell the Prada quite strongly on one arm, but I’m ready to spritz something else. I’ve done a few swaps over the past few weeks and have many many gorgeous new things to douse myself in.

    Looking forward to next week’s much more straightforward community project :) Happy Friyay, all!

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  60. Jalapeno says:
    15 September 2017 at 7:50 pm

    Late today! Things were busier than I expected, and only now are quieting down.

    Lots of interesting discussion on here yesterday. I’m on Team Lavender for culinary use, but I can’t quite get it in perfume as a major focus. As for the smiling: I thought back to old family photos I had seen ages ago. The ones taken in the 1920s and 1930s have people posing with somber or serious expressions. I don’t see smiling in those old pictures until after World War 2; 1950s and 1960s. So from my own personal observation, smiling as a default expression for Americans is a post-war thing.

    Which brings me to the picture for today’s community project. The expressions on the subjects’ faces remind of the pre-World War 2 photos in my family. A different time, and different mores. The SOTD for this was an easy pick (for me): AG Nuit Etoille EdP.

    Either of the Nuits Etoille would have worked. The EdT would have echoed the background scenery with its herbal notes, while the EdP could be a whiff of an afternoon repast which is somewhere off scene with its juicy citrus notes and spices.

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    • Jalapeno says:
      15 September 2017 at 7:54 pm

      Also forgot to mention the blue bottle of the older Nuit Etoilee. That did figure into my thinking.

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    • hajusuuri says:
      15 September 2017 at 10:49 pm

      Ha! I was originally going to wear Nuit Etoilee EDT for blue bottle.

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  61. missyl says:
    15 September 2017 at 8:24 pm

    Hey all! Hope it’s been the best day!
    I think you all had better ideas on the portrait. I’ve got nothing.
    Using up the rest of a decant of Hermes Rhubarb Escalarte. Love that opening zing that makes me think of the warmth and joy brought by sunshine! Simple scent but it makes me happy every time – so I think I need a decant.
    Wondering Robin- what time does the swap meet open in the am?

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    • Lillibet says:
      15 September 2017 at 8:52 pm

      That is one of my favourite instant-pick-me-up scents. You smell lovely :)

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    • Robin says:
      16 September 2017 at 12:24 am

      I will shoot for 10-11 am. Don’t shoot me if I’m late, it’s Saturday :-)

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  62. Eldiyen says:
    15 September 2017 at 9:43 pm

    I have really enjoyed thinking about the painting and reading everyone’s reactions and choices. I look forward to another painting/scent match-up! I ended up not really participating today – wore Adjatay and try as I might, I can’t really come up with any contrived connections :) Hope everyone has a great weekend!

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  63. Laurels says:
    16 September 2017 at 5:42 am

    I went with the green backdrop and the “late summer” part of the title, and am wearing Hermes Un Jardin en Mediterranee. (Some ripe figs had fallen from a tree in the “Mediterranean” garden of a museum I visited just a couple of weeks ago.) I reapplied a few hours ago, after a shower, and while it is a warm, fruity fig on a warm day, it is quite green on a chilly evening. It has also faded to almost nothing already, which is why I have still not put it on my FB list, despite the fact that I really love it, and keep acquiring samples. I go back and forth on both this and Safran Troublant. I think if my budget was just a little bigger…. Actually, I think I will put both on the list. It isn’t growing the way it was a couple of years ago, so I think there may be room for a couple of short-lived beauties. Happy late summer/early winter weekend, everyone.

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