It's our sixth annual 'stepping back' poll: can this group of shameless enablers help each other not buy perfume? Let's find out.
Name a perfume you've been itching to buy but suspect you might not need, and tell us why you think it might not really be a good use of your money. Maybe everyone will talk you out of it. Or, maybe not so much.
If you participated in this poll last year, tell us if you ended up buying the fragrance anyway!
Note: image is Crater Lake [cropped] by aspearing at flickr; some rights reserved.
Happy Saturday all! I’m in Boyfriend Dry Oil with a couple of sprays of Eau des Missions on top for a super comfortable and yummy kicked back Saturday scent.
Quick Splitmeet PSA: I still have one more 10 ml split available for By Kilian Amber Oud (but the split is a go either way). It’s like silk on your skin as Mals says. I’m linking to a review from one of our own – hope you don’t mind, Undina – as it’s just how I felt about it. https://undina.com/tag/amber-oud/
If you’re interested, contact me at my screen name above. (Sorry, not helping with stepping back, I know! Or maybe it is, if you buy a split and not a bottle?)
And the splitmeet will be open the rest of the day! And basically until I remember to close it tomorrow 🙂
I have never smelled this one, but I am not a fan of strong oud fragrances.
IMO, there’s hardly any oud noticeable in it. (I don’t like oud much, and I don’t like amber much either, but I think it’s super-nice.)
I do not like agarwood but I love Amber Oud: it’s the only By Kilian for which I went with a FB.
Wait… Wasn’t I supposed to talk you off buying it? 🙂
Did you see that I linked to your review in my post? It was such a great review and exactly how I feel about it.
I saw it – thank you. I just wanted to reinforce the enabling since people rarely click on links 🙂
????
Ooooooh, what’s the Boyfriend Dry Oil like? I have a bottle of that I have yet to open.
Hmmm. How to describe. Kind of an earthy pleasant skin scent. Which doesn’t help at all.
I’m wondering how close the dry oil it to the EdP. I have both, but have only used the perfume so far.
“Is”, not it! Sheesh. ????
I haven’t tried the perfume, so I’m not sure, sorry!
That’s OK. “I don’t know” or “Not sure” are perfectly valid answers.
Jo Malone Honey and Crocus is my stepping back fragrance….I don’t need any perfume, my money is already allotted for college for the kids and I really don’t need to be doing a blind buy…there, I just talked myself out of it 🙂
Really nice bottle though and it’s a limited edition and how many crocus scents do you own? It sounds really nice and may help with college life adjustments. And it shows great restraint if that’s the only one you buy from the set.
Oh no! Terrible! Do not listen to it CM8! ????????????
You are a wonderful friend!!
You probably need a bottle too!
🙂
I think this is what Robin means when she says shameless enabling.????
It’s more of a Lean In approach. Not that I’ve read the book but I believe it says that life is better when you lean in,, spray and inhlae deeply.
Yes!
Kanuka, you are a master, really. If you and Hajusuuri should ever team up, heaven help us all!
Omg, what an idea! I’m envisioning Godzilla taking on Tokyo with a perfume bottle in each hand, madly spraying and roaring!!
They really go beyond enabling pins and tiaras–maybe one of those beaded shawls? An enabler’s wrap for a lovely night out!
Or scepters … jeweled scepters to match their already-overloaded tiaras and pins. 🙂
LOL. I was originally not going to post this, but ummm, eBates is offering a 20% cash back at Saks.com…not to enable or anything…
oh lordie you are BAD 🙂
You missed my split! If I end up not wanting the rest of the bottle, I’ll hit you up.
And meeeee, don’t forget meeeeee!
I’ll remember!!
JM scents are usually available in 30ml, and I find 30ml to be a very reasonable and civilized amount. Just saying 🙂
Honey and Crocus was my favorite of that new Jo collection, just to be completely unhelpful. (To be a little more helpful, I found it very close to how I remember Bond No. 9 I Love NY For All, which is currently available at our favorite fragrance discounter for a lower price and larger amount than Honey and Crocus.)
Ahhh – I have some of those Bond No 9 samples in my ebay cart after Bear (IIRC) mentioned it here recently. Perhaps I should buy them to compare to the JM…
Y’all are NAUGHTY 😉
Not only talking me INTO it BUT creating a new lemming (Bond No 9) LOL!!!
I am holding firm though….really DON’T need it…..
and, btw, Jo Malone is SOLD OUT….the perfume gods have spoken 🙂
Ha! Divine intervention is The Best ????
It’s not sold out everywhere though…
Your are really itching for that enabler pin, aren’t you? 😉
Tried this yesterday and it was love. A delicious, but not too much, almond note.
BUT, lasted all of 30 minutes on me.
And with my scent eating skin it would last 30 seconds…..
I tried this and did not love it at all, if it helps. Were you the one looking for a marzipan/cherry almond type scent? If so, this is definitely not that. It is dry, like the way your skin smelled after a hot day in the sandbox, almost.
I LOVE YOU for saying that…yes, it was me looking for cherry almond…..and since it is NOT that I can most definitely pass 🙂
Have you tried Bvlgari Amarena? I think someone here recommended it as a cherry almond?
No but thanks for the tip! on to the list it goes 🙂
Yay! Glad I could help. I’ll be following your cherry-almond quest!!
Stay strong, CM8! You can do it.
LOL!!!
It was my first time participating in a Splimeet and now Im just going to do that forever instead of buying a full bottle! I bought 10ml of Grandiflora, a blind buy but really excited!
Splitmeet is the best! I save up $ for it and schedule my perfume buying around it. It’s great for trying new things, and for making FB purchases more reasonable (cost-wise and amount-wise.)
I’m a blind buy twin! I’m excited too, especially considering I’m pushing my floral limits with this ????
Oh, that’s a pretty one! I think you’ll be pleased. 🙂
+1
+2
A full bottle of Parfum D’Empire Le Cri de la Lumière is my stepping back perfume. As I said before my perfume expenses for this year will be reduced dramatically. I got 3 small decants at the splitmeet and no more purchases until the next one. If I behave properly ????, well….. a full bottle of Le Cri de la Lumière could be my birthday present at the end of the year. But there is still a long way to go and by then perhaps I would have already talked myself out of it. I really, really hope…
Fabulous plan! ????????????????????????????????????????
Trying to make it real????!
There’s always your half-birthday to consider so you don’t have to wait until the end of the year. If I am not mistaken, that half-birthday comes around in May?
Incorrigible!
????????
It is indeed in May! I will hardly pretend I did not read your comment…????????????
This is perfect!
Thanks! ????
Sounds like a good idea to me. ????
I hope I survive this time…
Well, I would really like a bottle of Ineke Idlewyld.
So, I will order a sample from Tigerlily Perfumery in San Francisco, and that will answer my question on whether or not I *need* it.
That’s not really ‘stepping back’, I suppose.
Yes, but it’s taking a breath and giving the decision real thought behind it. Nice job!
By all means, sample first — but I predict you will need that bottle! 😀
Have you tried other Ineke’s perfumes? 1 ml sample + S&H is $7; Discovery set from the brand’s site ($30 including D&H and $15 towards the future bottle purchase) has 8 1.5 spray samples. And Ineke runs either free shipping or some % off a couple of times a year, that you can combine with the $15 off coupon (no affiliation, just a happy customer).
The sampler set is gorgeous (I have bought several over the past ten years)…..even if you don’t like any of the fragrances after you sample them (or only like one and decide to go for a full bottle) it makes a beautiful gift. It is probably one of the most beautiful presentations I have ever encountered in all my years of perfume wearing.
It’s my birthday weekend. I turned 28 years young today at 13:15. I’m having just a small celebration with my parents – some cake and we’ll have some wine later today. I’m wearing many sprays of Prada Purple Rain for this occassion.
I got a tiny gift from parents but also plan to gift a bottle of perfume to myself – it’s just that I don’t know yet what I’ll get. There’s nothing that pops to my mind as a ‘I need it immediately’ fragrance, so I will keep it slowly and wait for such perfume to appear. Then I’ll get it.
Happy birthday!
Happy Birthday!????
Happy birthday weekend!
Happy birthday! 28 is a such a great age. I hope you have a fabulous year????
Happy Birthday, Lucas!
Have a happy birthday!
HBD, Lucas!
happy birthday, lucasai! You are smelling great in Purple Rain today. Prada irises are the most wonderful.
You are wise to wait for the right perfume to appear for your birthday gift to self. A long wait can be delightful.
I enjoyed Professor Chemist’s iris lecture very much. Please do another sometime. 😀
Happy birthday, and happy weekend!
Happy Birthday!
Happy birthday again????! You smell terrific in Purple Rain!
Enjoy the celebration of your birthday! My 20s were my favorite decade. It’s good to take the time to consider what fragrance you really want to buy for yourself; it makes the tie to your birthday all the more memorable. 🙂
Happy Birthday, 28 is such a great age. It is my birthday weekend too, turning 52 tomorrow, to tell you the truth, I don’t like this aging thing at all, at my age I mean.
I ordered some vintage CD from Etsy for my birthday, haven’t received them yet, Miss Dior edc and Eau de Cologne Fraiche set, looking forward to it.
Happy birthday Hera!
Happy Birthday!
Hope you enjoy your birthday, Hera! Maybe you will wear a wonderful scent to mark the occasion?
Happy Birthday and enjoy your vintage Dior!
Happy Birthday Hera! Enjoy your Dior treasures :smile:.
Vintage Miss Dior is so amazing, I will put some on today in honor of your birthday.
Happy happy birthday!
Happy birthday! Looking forward to hearing about the scent you eventually buy.
Happy Birthday! 28 is a great year, I hope it brings you new adventures and good smells. ☺
Happy birthday, and have fun contemplating your birthday purchase!
Happy Birthday!
Happy Birthday! Enjoy your new fragrance once you decide ????
happy birthday !!
Happy Birthday young’n!
Happy birthday! Have a healthy and happy year.
Happy Birthday to you! Hope it’s a fun day and you figure out what that next great scent to purchase is.
Happy Birthday! I hope you had fun!
Happy Scented Birthday, Lucas! ???? ???? ????
Happy birthday Lucas & Hera!
Happy birthday to you!
Thank you everyone for all your kind wishes
Happy Birthday and pass me a slice of your strawberry cake 🙂
Happy Birthday Lucas…you are young and have many more years to pile on the perfume bottles!
SotD is my last few drops of vintage Samsara edp after seeing it mentioned this week. Creamy, sandalwood bliss.
The only fb I am “thinking” about right now is Art Meets Art’s Like a Virgin LE. It is a lovely orange blossom. Because it’s a limited edition (only 5000 bottles made) I feel I should make my decision sooner rather than later…or is it because it’s a LE that I feel I need a bottle? ???? This is my quandary.
Oh, what a conundrum! I passed on a LE bottle of Musc Tonkin extrait and I regret it deeply. Just saying.
Up to this point, I’ve resisted the lure of the splitmeets — mostly because the offers are of things I haven’t smelled, and I’ve been able to talk myself out of a taking a chance on more than 1-2 mls of something new (but yikes! the money I’ve spent on tiny samples…)
This time, I folded like a cheap lawn chair for a few splits — and was madly tempted by many more! But now I’m putting my blinders back on: I really need to spend money on some new clothes. (I may smell good, but I look and feel pretty frumpy.)
Going about my household chores today in a teensy bit of MFK Grand Soir.
Ditto on the clothes for me. Perfume is just sooooo much easier and more fun!
And it always fits!
Well, not always 😉 My batting average with both is probably about the same. But you can return clothes; you can’t return decants and samples.
Well, at least it doesn’t make me look fat!
And an unloved sample of perfume doesn’t feel like rejection in the same way as a garment that seemed *so right* on the hanger that doesn’t work out!
Omg! Folded like a cheap lawn chair!!! Classic????????
That one made me laugh out loud. We’re watching a replay of the final curling match, and hubby is wondering why I’m chuckling. ????
I laughed out loud, too!
Classic! Lol!
I hear you on $ spent on samples- no more for me! I also could use a wardrobe update, I have a co-worker who loves StitchFix…wonder if anyone here has tried it?
Oh, and you smell great!
I JUST got my first Stitch Fix shipment yesterday! They did okay – I like two of the five things enough to keep them and am on the fence about a third one. They only ignored my instructions on one item (so my feedback to them on that will be in all caps), and the fifth item is just not me. But not bad for their very first time. I think you should try it!
My problem with these online clothing styling services is that they always want you to create an account and give them all your information before they even let you see what they have. I am very hard to fit anyway–I am 5’9″ with long arms and non-standard proportions, so standard sizes and lengths never work for me. Several times I have gone ahead and taken the quiz, only to be told that they don’t have any sizes for me.
I tired stitch fix a few years ago, ended up canceling after a few months. The fabrics and cuts weren’t right for me, no matter how much I communicated with my stylist. I kept nothing.
If I were to do it again, I would go with a service like Le Tote, where you can borrow, send back or keep clothes as you like, without waiting for a box the next month. There’s an Ann Taylor thing, too, where you can borrow or buy. I don’t know what your style is, but since STITCH fix runs a bit on-trend, you might find these viable options.
The website My Subscription Addiction is great for checking out various subscription boxes. They review every thing from craft to clothing to snack to pet to beauty boxes. You can get a feel for the different options, and they break down the cost per item.
Signed,
Shopping Is My Cardio
????
I just checked, and you can browse the Le Tote website without setting up an account. There’s a browse icon at the top right (on the mobile site). Cute stuff, imo.
Not a rep, promise!
I am definitely going to check that out – thank you!
Super helpful – thank you!
Stay strong. 😀
Grand Soir has one of my most favorite dry down. You smell great!
I adore it at all stages! I love the mist in the room after I’ve sprayed it. It’s just a gorgeous, gorgeous scent. (Proud owner of a new fb.)
How marvelous, congrats on your Grand Soir fb!
I often close my bedroom door in the morning after spritzing my sotd so that when I open the door later in the day I can still smell the perfume in the air. 🙂
As the (presumably) rare NSTer who actually spends more money on clothes than perfume, let me just say that February is a great time to buy cashmere sweaters (and winter clothes generally.) And let me remind myself again that I really don’t need to buy anymore sweaters (or winter clothes generally.)
No question I spend more on clothes these days! In fact, I’m probably going out to buy clothes this afternoon. I need another pair (or two) of jeans. I hate jeans shopping. I can try on two dozen pair and I’m lucky to find one that feels good!
Right.
So when you find a pair that fits, do you buy three pairs like I do? 😀
At least!
Yep. Because if you don’t, something about said pairs of jeans will change for the worse the next time you want to get some.
I do, because clothes and sizes get reformulated ????
Yes, it is definitely my clothing that is changing size. 😉
The issue I have run into is that even if a store has three pairs of jeans in my size in stock (which they almost never do), they won’t all fit the same. Length is the big issue for me. One pair will be fine, another is barely OK (but I know it will be too short after it is washed and shrinks) and the third is way too short, even though they are all labeled as “long”. Or else two pairs are the right length but one is too tight or way too big, and the next size up or down doesn’t fit either. I wear jeans with to work with work shoes and socks and I do NOT want any sock showing when I am standing up. Mostly I buy jeans online and return/exchange those that don’t fit or are the wrong length.
50_Roses, I am also tall (5’10”) with long arms & legs, and broad shoulders. I was an early-adopter online-shopper for clothes and that’s how I shop pretty much exclusively now. Stores that do carry longs & talls don’t carry them in-store, and I generally find shopping in-person to be defeating because of fit issues. There are way more options shopping online and it’s easier. Once I find a brand or shop I like, I’m pretty loyal, and it’s almost always the case that there are more options online within said brand or line.
Cashmere ???????????????? le sigh
Me too. My problem is that I buy it and then you can only wear it about 3 days per year in Houston. 🙁 This year was better since we had more cold weather!
I would like to give a shout out to eShakti. If you haven’t heard of them, eShakti offers made-to-measure clothing. You put your measurements in your profile (they ask for quite a few, too, not just the usual bust/waist/hips), select the item(s) you want, and you get your made-to-measure clothing in about 2 to 3 weeks. It is a little longer delivery time than most online retailers, but then that is because it is being made to order to fit your measurements. They even have a no-hassle return policy. If you don’t like something, you can send it back for a full refund. If you are willing to take the refund in the form of a gift card, you even get your shipping and customization fees refunded. I mean, who else lets you return custom orders? I have a closet full of eShakti clothing and I get so many compliments on it. They do offer standard sizes as well, but I have never ordered that way. To me, the extra fee for custom sizing is well worth it to have something that actually fits.
Oooh, now curious about this! I’m not difficult to fit — my clothes storage looks like a mini JJill store.
I have several dresses by eShakti and they are beautiful, well made, and obviously, fit well. I LOVE elbow sleeve length for dresses and shirts and you can pick that for just about anything on the site.
I was going to buy no perfume this year and I’ve already bought loads, though I’ve sold a fair bit too. But the latest two I’m guiltily eying are on eBay – I don’t want to be talked out of them enough to risk competition by saying what they are! You just can’t help some people.
Have you got the link to last year’s thread, Robin? Would be fun to check. I probably did buy whatever it was (always too embarrassed to post on the the Donatella threads).
This is me, not helping. Go straight to EBay and buy them! Pronto! You’re welcome! ????
Here you go!
https://nstperfume.com/2017/02/11/lazy-weekend-poll-stepping-back-from-the-edge-episode-5/
Hmmm, disturbing though it may be, I can’t remember yesterday for less a year ago. I think it’s Old Brain Syndrome. I KNOW Onda VdE has been on the list since it came out. Still haven’t caved. I have come by the coveted Naja by way of an NST perfume goddess, so that doesn’t count for this project since it was gifted to me, although I treasure every spritz. It’s my SOTD????????
I will say I am on an a No Buy for the rest of the year because I have overindulged (in more ways than perfume!) since November. How, you ask? By purchasing THREE FULL BOTTLES!! ???? The SHAME!!
I have brainwashed myself into believing this is absolutely acceptable since I have been able to squirrel away quite a bit by not paying for housing.
So. Newest goal is to continue to save for my TT, pay off my last credit card ($1000 left!), avoid rent/housing costs as long as T-Rex can safely reside in the van while I’m at work, and double pay on the van.
By his time next year I’m hoping to have my house sold, my TT purchased, my van paid off, take the allowed month off between contracts (which will allow me to continue medical insurance uninterrupted) to get out and explore less civilized areas. I’d like to preserve my sanity as long as possible, and this can best be accomplished be taking regular and lengthy breaks from crazy bipedals. Yesterday, I had a crazy wife of a patient scream at me in the hallway “You haven’t done anything ALL DAY while I have been at work!” All this while pointing her finger in my face. ???? Cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs!
The TT I have my eye on has a super roomy, well protected nook that would be perfect for perfume. Very spacious. Might even need to add a few more bottles after all the above is accomplished.
I’m writing this down here in a public forum in an effort to remember this entire plan, since, as mentioned above, I can’t remember yesterday. ????
Have a fab weekend all✌????
This is a very well thought out and admirable plan!????
The best laid plans… etc., etc…????
That’s a good plan.
I’m waiting for the other shoe to drop. ????
Someone who is not at work screams at someone who IS at work that she has been at work all day…? *mind boggles* I am sure she is struggling with some kind of health crisis that is very difficult, but I’m sorry she is taking it out on you.
The neighbors across the alley have the cutest little trailer (the kind that hitches onto a vehicle.) It’s not an airstream but has the same aesthetic – an adorable silver capsule!
Good luck with your life plan. You are sacrificing a lot already – a few bottles here and there are well-deserved.
The hardest thing was not to laugh in her face because people are just so ridiculous! I think this is their communication style because later as I was walking past the room, they were screaming at each other. Someone could tell me they hate me or they love me, I just can’t take it personal, because it has nothing to do with me. If that makes any sense. ????
go, Deva! you’re doing things right.
I don’t know….life will jump in at any moment and make a mess of everything! ????
I am sure you can accomplish that plan. Stay strong and go for it! ????????
But I’m soooo weak…!
Admiring your adult-ability here. Sounds solid.
Is this a thinly veiled insult????? Being considered an adult, not to mention a solid adult, is very disturbing….
Beats being called a flimsy adult, doesn’t it? ????
True! ????
Oh, gosh, no! I aspire to that kind of thoughtful planning. I’m definitely challenged in that capacity.
Aren’t we all? The older I get, the less responsible I want to be. I think it’s called regression…
I like the plan, but what is a TT?
Something oddballs like me aspire to have- it’s a travel trailer. I have been flipping and flapping trying to decide if I should have my van ”professionally” turned into a camper van, or buy a travel trailer. I’m intimidated by towing, backing, etc but have finally worked up the nerve to bluff my way through it until I can actually do it. I hope I don’t kill anyone or die during the learning curve…
Great plan, Deva! T-Rex loves you and will go with the flow!
T-Rex loves anyone with a MilkBone. ????
I’ve reached the point in my collecting that if I want something, I just go ahead and buy it. Truth is, I hardly ever (like maybe once every 6-8 months) am in a perfume-buying mood these days. Vacations (two bottles in Italy over Christmas) are the most likely times when I decide something is worthy. It helps to have spent so little time here, though–pretty sure NST is responsible for TONS (or is that GALLONS?) of purchases over the years! Robin should probably get recognition for helping to end the international recession and getting economies back on their feet.
Gallons! Ack. I prefer to think this community is helping others to spend their fragrance money more wisely? But that might mean I best not read the rest of today’s comments 😉
???? It works both ways for me.
I wore Misia and Drole de Rose about a week apart earlier this month, and they struck me as quite similar, so I’m wearing both today. Verdict: nah. Misia is much richer and more complex, while Drole de Rose is lighter, with some green notes. Both do smell like roses and violets, at least!
I really want Parfums de Nicolai’s L’Eau Chic (or maybe that set of three minis that includes it) to add to my arsenal of summer-in-the-desert scents. I certainly don’t need it (see: arsenal), but honestly? It’s cheap-ish and I’ll probably buy it one of these days. So much for stepping back . . .
I’m not even a Nicolai fan and was tempted to buy one of those sets. I say go for it. If you don’t like the others you can swap them out next month.
I thought of that too! Also . . . see update.
Shameless enabler update: Beautyhabit is doing an 8pc sampler + cute bag with any $75 purchase (code MUSTHAVE). I got their spring sampler last year and it was awesome, so L’Eau Chic is looming . . . (also I am not affiliated with Beautyhabit).
I love their GWP offers and succomed to their Christmas sample giveaway which was really well done. And I want that new PdN too!
I somehow ended up with exactly $75 worth of stuff and free shipping plus that sampler set are sweet throw-ins. Thanks for enabling.
Oh, you’re welcome!
I somehow feel supporting smaller perfume brands like PdN is not as heinous as coughing up money for brands like Tom Ford. This makes no rational sense, but if you’re going on a No Buy, but are still planning on Buying, purchasing from a smaller brand can be seen as admirable! Talk about twisted and skewed ????
Have you checked the splitmeet page? Someone (I believe it is eschmeling) is splitting those PdN sets. You might be able to jump in.
I saw that! I def want at least 15ml of Chic, so I decided not to split. I did however get 5ml of Baiser de Russie at the splitmeet; I was a real lemming for that one so I feel like I saved SO MUCH money by buying just a split. Perfume logic . . .
Resurfacing after being hit by The Worst Cold Ever last week – they generally take up residence in my sinuses and this one did too … but seriously, this was bad. I finally slept through the night last night and can breathe this morning, so I’m in the glory of Chanel 19 EDP. I don’t have my eye on any particular perfume at the moment, but I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before another obsession comes over me. Guess I’ll just read others’ comments this morning and see what I can do to help … or not. 😉
Sinus issues are the WORST! Hope yours are draining freely and copiously to avoid the disabling pain and pressure when they are blocked. Have you tried adding a neti pot to your regimen? Especially if sinus infections are frequently recurring…
I do the squeeze bottle thing, and it helps tremendously, especially with alleviating sinus headaches.
Welcome back! Just in time for spring. 😉
Thank you! Yes, spring – are we done with snow for a while? PLEASE?? It is gorgeous out right now. 🙂
Well, *I* can be done with it. No idea what Oregon has in store for us, though! Spring is always a fan-dancer (tease!) in these parts.
Joining you with sinus issues. I’m pretty sure it’s an infection. I feel like crap. Left work early yesterday to get into the Doctor. It really takes a toll. Hope you feel better soon.
Oh, I feel your pain. I hope yours isn’t an infection – sinus infections are so hard to treat.
I hope that both SheriG and Lillyjo can shake their respective cases of “Ick” quickly. So many people have been sick this winter. ????
Thank you, Jalapeno! I think I’m on the mend – put on makeup and left the house for the first time in a week today and survived. 🙂
I would very much like a bottle of Apres L’Ondee. I don’t know why I haven’t pulled the trigger yet. Maybe I’m hoping for an even better delicate iris-violet perfume to come along? Really, how likely is that?
I think you haven’t pulled the trigger because you are a Sensible Young Lady….
Wait! I just looked up that one, being unfamiliar with it’s bottle, notes, and cost. Just pull the trigger!! It’s only $55 at fragrancenet!! I’d be happy to buy it for you!! It’s a bargain, girl????
Gah!!!
I adore Apres l’Ondee. I think you’re right, there’s likely never going to be another like it.
**whispers** A few weeks ago I noticed a certain online discounter has tester bottles of Apres l’Ondee for close to perfumath free. Please, somebody buy them all so I don’t!
**bites nails**
Ooooh kinda wish I hadn’t seen this . . . .
Apres l’Ondee is so perfect for spring time and the price really good…..????
SotM = Jour d’Hermes which always makes me smile and breathe deep. Will likely wear L’heure Bleue later today, it is so delicious in cold weather.
Jour d’Hermes was new-ish and much-hyped when I fell hard for perfume. Over the years I went from a dab sample to a mini to a purse spray + ridiculously large refill bottle purchased in December.
After that I decided to stop buying perfume for a time. Who knows for how long, a year or more would be nice. It feels good to step back and enjoy what I have.
And then a few days ago I stumbled across a mention of Prada Infusion d’Homme, a scent-sibling to my beloved Infusion d’Iris. My heart went pitter-patter.
Infusion d’Homme was previously unknown to me. I think it is discontinued, was likely made before Prada re-formulated the various Infusions (I strongly prefer the older recipes), and is available for almost perfumath-free at the discounters.
Sigh. It’s a perfect storm of perfumed longing in a battle with no-more-bottles and especially no-more-buying-unsniffed. Argh!
Oh, crap. A lemming is born.
Sorry about that new lemming. Promise if I do fall over the edge and go after a bottle of Infusion d’Homme I will report back. 😀
Yay, my first enabler pin!
I think that was me who recommended Prada Homme. At least it is still quite cheap to buy and Donatella is always very forgiving. ????
You deserve that enabler pin, I am happily obsessed.
And yes, thank heaven for Donatella’s mercy. 😀
I’m trying to embrace my authentic self and speak my truth and it seems I can honour that aspect of my self through perfume and cake. Because my body is such a temple I’m stepping back from cake…except some cake. That leaves perfume. So every day , in order to be the best version of myself and bring joy to others and live in the moment ( it’s so exhausting!) i have welcomed perfume into my routine, between the serum and primer but before moisturiser and post moisturising . And there are many more perfumes I need to open my heart and soul to. However, i think that stepping back may be good exercise once in a while as it strengthens the hamstrings? But it’s best to start slowly otherwise stepping back will cause terrible injuries. Therefore, buying perfume is a kind of non- medical intervention. Like yoga for the nose. So …I think I’ll wear Green Patouchli today for my body’s sake.
Kanuka, you are a sage. Yoga for the nose…..I love that. Please keep speaking your truth!
Mutter, mutter… about cake and bodies… I can tell that my temple is bigger than yours.
…and I bow down to you oh wise one!
Also…i thought the Kay Graham book was fantastic. And i keep thinking about it…even little things like that they knew Brancusi and Thomas Mann
I am so glad!! I read Personal History probably 18-20 years ago, and I STILL think about it. After I mentioned it to you, I went to look for my copy. Someone I lent it to over the years must have kept it. I might have to repurchase it.
Pretty sure your Authentic Self has been Fully Embraced. For the oftentimes needed EXTRA Fully Embracing Moment, a newly purchased Full Bottle will also help work out your upper body by lifting a 100ml bottle 10x, with three reps each upper extremity, culminating with a delicate spritz at the completion of total of 60 dead lifts. Work IT! ????????
This is super hilarious! LOL uncontrollably! You won Diva! ????????????
Cold cologne compress necessary for RSI
This made me laugh hard … not so good for my lingering cough and sore-from-coughing-so-much abs … but thank you anyway. 🙂
So amazing that you can memorize all the Sacred Steps (living in the moment, being the best version, BEFORE moisturizer and pre-moisturizer but between serum and primer) and insert the perfume correctly (SPRAYING, not inserting, so sorry). You have done quite the balancing act promising great results. Namaste.
My latest idea for making $$$ is to make a kind of face product smoothie. Just blast everything (from 2xcleanser, balms, oils, primers, moisturisers, masks, serums, spf, toners, waters, eye creams, acids, vitamins…)in a bullet thing and apply all at once…then insert perfume (that’s if goop hasn’t already done perfume inserting and patented the idea)
Like others, I too am being very careful with spending on expensive non-essentials with some medical expenses for my son looming, and college for my oldest around the corner. That said, ahem, I am easily distracted. . .
My list of haunts (haunting wants) right now includes:
Arquiste Ella
AA’s Unter den Linden
CdG’s Stephen Jones
Violette Sacree WAS on that list, but I went ahead with my split. Yes! There are a bunch of others, but those three have been rattling around in my scent memories recently.
SOTD? Why Violette Sacree of course!
I really don’t think you need any of those.
She definitely needs the CdG Stephen Jones (I want in on that split). 🙂
Mmmm, Ella. Maybe I’ll split that one of these days.
Ella is a really nice scent. I’d join if you ever decide to take the plunge.
I vote for Unter der Linden in the next split!
Ooh, if you ever want to split some CdG Stephen Jones, I am IN.
I suddenly will have a complete collapse of will at the strangest moments about previously unlemmed scents. And it is a seamless moment, seeing it, hitting the BUY button, and waiting for the package. Nearly everything I buy at this point is unsniffed and yet nearly all are in the parameters of what I imagined, or better, which is so nice. But I have a resistance to buying full price Fraaagola Saalaaata. (And the reason I think I spelled it correctly is that my iPad knows those words…)
My SOTD is Vanille Galante. Haven’t worn it in so long and really enjoying.
Oh Princess, we are sister splurgers. I put a stop to buying early in January and have been 95% pure, but my style is like yours. You described it so perfectly. I don’t know whether to rejoice or sympathize.
Well put Karen B. We do both, sympathize in our quivers of guilt and rejoice in our accomplishments of taste and enjoyment!!
Being a math nerd, I’m curious about how you calculated that the badness was 5%.
Hajusuuri, my dear, you and I DO NOT want to begin quantifying badness!!
I think Karen was suggesting a lot of good behavior!
Well, I could suggest that it can be calculated in such a way that you will end up with > 95% goodness 🙂
Well, whike I would very much like agent provocateur, John Paul Gaultier classicque and tommy girl, I really don’t want 100 mL of each. This is not a very sexy purchase I know – I could get this all taken care of for $60 – I continually put these in my cart – and then take them out again – I know I’ll never go through 300 mL of these guys that and I’d rather put $60 toward something I love.
So, I have continually stepped back from these purchases. I think maybe I’m trying to relive the perfume experience I never had in high school college and after? Maybe I feel like I have to go through this phase before I can appreciate other fragrances? Or maybe I just like them? So many questions
All those questions are so true, real and keep coming over and over and the answers are so many….????
Yes, more questions than answers, the journey continues!
Why not decants of each? It would be worth the indulgence of your theories.
True! but the fact that the decants are the same price as the bottles always stops me. I think I’m going to put this on my list for the swap meet – that I could definitely justify if it works out
I’m with you on this one, Coin-op. If a bottle costs double the price of a decant, the decant is really a waste of money.
I have a bottle of Tommy Girl, I will look for you during the swap meet.
????????
Coim-op, if you are willing to do a little bit of poking around on the Internet, you can find 50 mL bottles of Agent Provocateur. I did a fair bit of lurking on Amazon for a while to find one, since I agree that 100 mL is just too much.
Thanks jalapeño! I’m always poking around, but for some reason haven’t looked for AP on eBay etc.
Agent Provocateur came out in the most adorable spray minis. I had one at one point and I’d offer it to you if I’d not already sent it off to someone else. Anyway, there are surely more out there and I’d venture to guess I bought mine on ebay for under $12.
Oh, good to know! Going to search now…
I haven’t been stepping away from any edges lately, because I am a wasteful human being. Sigh. My planned purchases in the next few months are Chanel Bois des Iles extrait, Chanel Sycomore, Tauer LADDM, and Guerlain Cuir Beluga. How could anyone tell me NOT to get those four? Do I need more perfume? Absolutely not. I will die before I can use what I already have. But do I NEED them? Yes. I NEED them.
I forgot to say! My SOTD is Slowdive from the splitmeet. It is sooooo good. It smells just like the beeswax candles we bought at a monastery outside of Athens. Yum!
I want that so much!! I missed out in the Splitmeet.
Oh, wow. And here I thought I could live my life without sniffing that one. How wrong I was.
Oh, that sounds great, and I like all four of the scents you listed above. Could require some testing . . .
When you buy that Cuir Beluga, make sure you ask for the non-bulb atomizer version. And, as mentioned above, eBates is offering 20% cash back at Saks.com…
Oof, that’s tempting…but I was actually hoping to get a 20-mL travel spray from their Paris boutique, like the Neroli Outrenoir I got from you! That’s the perfect size for me, and a much less horrific price! And yes, I was hoping to get the BdI extrait AND the Sycomore at Chanel in CdG airport! There should be one in our departure terminal, so I just have to get there early enough for some duty free shopping. (Have you been to the CdG Chanel? They must have les Exclusifs, right?)
But I love your thinking on how getting vacation perfume, especially on a miles-discounted trip, makes the perfumes not count 🙂 🙂 I see you’re on your usual anti-talking-off-the-ledge mission, with all your typical talent.
It had been a while since I’ve been to the CdG airport with enough time to shop! I know not all Chanel boutiques carry perfume (the one on Madison Ave in the 60s doesn’t). That said, perfumes are easy pickings for travelers and I expect the airport boutique carries it.
Okay. Whoops. So there I was thinking where on this earth is the Comme de Garcons airport? ????????
Um. It has been decades since I last flew Paris.
Heh heh. 😉 I was wondering the same for a minute there…
That made me join eBates but I can’t find that deal or anything like it. Wow, Hajusuuri, what am I doing wrong? Did it expire?
The saks. com website is experiencing issues right now.
In any case, with ebates, go to “Help” and choose to get the Button. Once you have installed the Button (it shows up on your browser’s menu bar), whenever you go to a website that has a cash back offer, it will flash red and/or an Activate Offer prompt will be presented to you.
The Saks (and Saks Off 5th) website is almost always experiencing issues. It’s ridiculous. They are very good about rectifying issues once an order is placed, though. Which I’ve had to do both times I’ve placed orders.
Oddly, I’ve never had any problems with Gilt, which is basically Saks Off 5th minus the sales tax 😉
… and the BdI Extrait…get it at Chanel in Paris. Perfume bought while on vacation does not have to be confessed to Donatella. Besides, the spending is coming from a different budget. Also, since your airline tickets used miles, think of how much you saved from not having to pay for it! All that savings can go towards perfume!
In fact, if you use a credit card that gives you mileage points to purchase the vacation perfume, on your vacation, you are pretty much making money hand over fist. Might as well buy two travel fragrances at Chanel.
If you are going to wear your planned perfume purchases, that isn’t being wasteful, Just my $0.02 there.
Thank you for putting things in perspective!
Yes, you do NEED them. Those will be great purchases that you will not regret.
SOTD is Woman in Gold by Killian
Baiser de Russie would be my FB chose but the split meet helped curb that..
Can’t wait to try this (the Baiser that is)! Thank you to the Split Meet Hostess with the Mostess! ????
How do you like the Guerlain? I just got my decant. Haven’t given it skin time yet.
I haven’t received my decant yet, but I tried it on in the store and adored it. The plum note stands out on me and I really love it. Its not overly sweet either… I think it could smell great on a man as well
Safari again today, since it is so warm. (I am in two minds. It feels nice, but it means winter is pretty much over and there will be no snow from here on out. Boo.)
Epidor split is still open, with 20-30 mls not yet spoken for.
Is Epidor the new Lubin? Heading over to the Splitmeet now…
I’m still hoping for Snow Patrick’s Day, Mals!
I’ve not done well the past few months in curbing purchases, including samples, which I’d really been good about this past year. Granted the samples I bought couldn’t be sniffed in person (which was my rule) anywhere here.
It’s not a strong gravitational pull, but the only one of a bunch of things I’ve smelled recently that I’d consider is Aroma M Geisha Green which is really growing on me. Thought it was too barber-shop-y on first sampling, but now it’s reminding me of a juicier, less sweet version of Lolita Lempicka and it’s kinda becoming addictive.
And my SOTD do far is Philosophy Amazing Grace Ballet Rose from a Sephora sample. Not bad. Very light fresh rose with a hint of fruitiness. Would be nice for those sweltering days when not much else is tolerable.
I remember a friend of mine wore the regular Amazing Grace as her signature scent..smelled so good on her
I don’t really know what AG smells like! I should try it on skin one day.
These posts are serving to enable me!
ElisaP, I hope you’re feeling better and there’s be a halt to the hurling????
Thanks Deva! Yes, it was just a bad reflux episode, not some sort of bug.
I’d been doing well, especially with samples, until the beginning of the year. I wanted to test some other patchoulis before deciding that the patchouli bottle I really wanted was actually the bottle I really wanted. In doing so, I spent roughly the cost of the bottle buying samples and decants, then bought the bottle in the end, so ended up spending double the cost of the bottle I was trying to resist in the first place…
Not good perfumemath but I feel good about my purchase.
SOTD is one tiny spray of Myrrh & Tonka on my stomach, since I had a hair appointment this morning, and didn’t want to overwhelm my stylist with anything ‘too much’ or ‘too loud.’
I’ve been a bit naughty since November, having bought 6 new bottles (but really only 4, since the most recent 2 I just split this week for the Splitmeet….right?). The only thing I am definitely going to get for the remainder of the year – nope, I can’t be talked out of it 😉 – is Spanish Veil. I think the SO is going to be gifting that for my birthday (provided I can point him to someone who actually has stock…it seems to be on backorder everywhere).
Most things on my wishlist are either too aspirational (too pricey or d/c…and therefore too pricey), or things that I’d look for in a swap or splitmeet rather than buy as a new, full bottle.
I will not waste time in trying to talk you out of it – I think it is an amazing fragrance. Personally I blame pixel for sending me samples of EB fragrances and getting me hooked
Aedes has it in stock now.
I think I must unsubscribe from Parfum1 emails. I would love to order a FB of ELdO Fat Electrician, which I love all of a sudden after finishing off a couple of samples. But really, how many bottles of vetiver fragrances does a girl need? (I have several.) Please, someone talk me out of it.
SOTD is Gallivant Istanbul, a spicy and plush little number that is helping a bit to counter-effect the dreary weather and my dreary mood.
And a *freebie* offer: I double-ordered the sample set from Twisted Lily, and when I contacted them, they told me to keep it! That was so nice, I would like to offer the second one here. Samples are Istanbul, Brooklyn, London, and Tel Aviv. Send your screen name and mailing address, and it’s yours (ConUS only).
Have a nice weekend, everyone. 🙂
“But really, how many bottles of vetiver fragrances does a girl need? (I have several.) Please, someone talk me out of it.”
You. Need. Every. Single. Vetiver. Ever. Made!
Just my opinion. Vetiver seems to be my crack…
Oh, my dear Deva. Have you read the instructions? ????
Joking aside, I stupidly went back to the website and realized that the 1oz bottle is cheaper per ml than the 3.3 oz. How can this be? I’ll just have to snap up this little unicorn, won’t I?
What’s your favorite vetiver?
Oh no! I could not even hazard a guess! And! I think many of my fragrances have vetiver in them, whether or not it’s in the note list because I’m convinced the note list is a work of pure fiction???? I don’t think I’ve ever smelled one that I thought was “bad”… Having said that, Onda VdE is my unattainable vetiver love. ????
Oh, that’s a fine choice. Mine changes on a regular basis.
In January I unsubscribed from all perfume shop emails, hoping it would calm the urge to buy. Then, lo and behold, I started to see perfume ads on Instagram. Can’t get away from them!
They’re watching you! ????
Too true. Install Privacy Badger to slow them down.
Thanks for the tip!
It’s an evil plot. ????
I have been wanting Shaal Nur for a few years, and it’s been hard to find samples in my usual spots. I really don’t want a bottle–I don’t even know what it smells like–but I seem to be fixated on it and worry that I’ll go over the edge one day and splurge. Totally irrational, but that’s perfume.
Hi karen b! I have about 1/2 a small decant left that might help scratch the itch…
Email me at pretsky35 over at hawt male if you’d like it.
Well, that’s the best way to scratch my itch, thank you very much! Email to follow.
Hawt?
Hot
Let me know if you’re having trouble figuring out my email address, or you can leave me yours.
I was just thinking about that one, and I’m in the same boat. If I ever see one pop up, maybe I should snag it and do a split!
SOTD is Annick Goutal Neroli, courtesy of a kind NSTer. Thank you! It’s beautiful. It’s the floral, delicate side of neroli (rather than the sharper, citrusy side of most neroli scents I’ve experienced). As soon as I finish my bottle of Atelier Cologne Grand Neroli, I’ll replace it with either the Annick Goutal or Hermes Eau de Neroli Dore.
P.S. I put this offer up earlier in the week, but no bites yet. Anybody want to do a Smell Bent swap? I blind-bought a 4ml mini of Pepper Ylang that doesn’t float my boat. If anybody has a different Smell Bent mini they’d like to swap for Pepper Ylang, let me know!
AG is streamlining in conjunction with their new packaging — just saying that if you are committed to that over the Hermes, you might want to make sure it’s going to make the latest cut. Or buy soon, is what I mean.
At the moment, Neroli is on the US site (old packaging) but not the French site (new packaging).
Thanks for the info, Robin!
A full bottle isn’t in my budget right now, so if Neroli disappears, then that makes my decision for me! And I’ll enjoy my little decant to the last drop.
Perfect. The plus of the Hermes is that you can find it in 15 ml.
What I itch to buy is all over the place…generally whatever shiny object is mentioned here. But, I have been tempted for a while by Poudre de Riz. I’ll use up the sample generously gifted to me. I’m drawn to softness lately. Almond, milky skin scents.
Very early morning commitment here, so I generously spritzed Idylle Love Blossom, which helped me stay awake as it lightly wafted.
So baffling how what I crave changes with the wind. I’m also on a soft kick.
Maybe I’ll join you in Idylle LB later. So lovely and easy. It’s the first bottle I’ve owned where I’m considering a backup! ????
You seem to be my primary enabler…. Poudre de Riz is one, and I just joined the Geisha Noire split and Idylle LB…. ????????
Oops! Don’t buy the PdR. I’ll email you later.
No plans to buy…it’s just hanging out there in the back of my mind a lot.
LizzieB, have you tried YSL Cinema? It reminds me a little bit of PdR, and has a nice almond-y mimosa note.
I’m scent-free still, as I contemplate a lazy Sunday. I have been working my way through the Fort and Manle discovery set, and I really like four of the eight. Lovely for the nose, not so good for the finances, two are on my definitely buy list, and two are on my very likely list.
I need to try those!
WHich ones are your favourites? I really want to try the F&M.
Ok, i will play. I really want a fb of Bottega Veneta, because i lovd it so much, and I’m almost done with my decant. The Velours version is tempting me because of the bottle though. Also I want something wonderful for my big birthday in june. I’m still waffling between Cuir Impertinent and Oriental express. Mugler is having a sale sometime in march, I’ve never spent that much on perfume though, idk.. I’m perfumed paralized. I also don’t know if I can resist the new CM intense, and if I won the loterry I would get Iris Nazerena. Sotd is BV.
I wish the US had 30 mls of this one. They pop up on eBay but for more money than the larger size. The 30 ml bottle is also so adorable. I love this scent too, and the Velours is quite nice and very similar to BV.
If you want the original BV, hold out for the swapmeet. It almost always turns up there. In fact, it took multiple swapmeets for me to finally unload my BV mini.
I seriously came close to buying a $4,000 vintage perfume last week. This would have made no sense because I have a good-sized decant that I rarely wear, and I could easily get another decant. I think what really stopped me (aside from the price) is that I can’t bear to unseal pristine, unopened vintage bottles anymore. It could be the last one in the entire world for all of time. I used to enjoy the unsealing, but I’ve seen too many perfumes (and brands) disappear or turn into IFRA zombies.
I agree, I was gifted a vintage 40s bottle of Ma Griffe and opened it, it evaporated very quickly. I should have just kept it sealed, since it’s not a scent I can really wear.
I always thought the old “Ma Griffe is my signature” ads were so cool, but I could never wear Ma Griffe, either. There is a note I dislike.
Yes, especially if the bottle is pristine, you know opening it will jump start evaporation and oxidation.
You’re not going to tell us what it was?!?
Yes, nozknoz, what was this fabulous vintage?
SOTD is Musc Ravageur. My perfume buying has decreased dramatically over the past year as I have learned my blind buy success rate is very low, I can smell many new things at Fumerie, and swapping is a wonderful way to ensure some new perfumes come in while oldies go. I buy some samples two or three times a year but right now nothing is on my “must have” list.
I wish I’d bought a FB of that one (MR) a few years ago. I tried a newer bottle maybe last year (?) and it was WRONG. Clearly reformulated. 🙁
No kidding?! How recent was the reformulation, do you know? I have a bottle at home in Florida I’m my fridge that I bought in 2013 I think…I left it home because I rarely wear it..????
My guess is that it happened after FM was purchased–was that two years ago? Let me know if you decide you don’t need your bottle. We could come to an arrangement. 😉
I will keep that in mind????
Can relate to the low blind buy success rate. But I still blind buy!
Wish I had local access to a place like Fumerie, I end up buying samples, most of which I end up not liking. Waste of $$. I have (mostly) given up blind buying as well as my success rate is low.
I went there once and it’s very nice, especially if you like to talk perfume as you shop. I don’t have much to say about perfume on any kind of intellectual level. I leave that to people much smarter than myself. I’m more of a emotional shopper, so I prefer to kind of play on my own. Online discount codes are my friends. Plus, I feel guilty if I take a lot of time with staff and end up not purchasing anything.
I don’t love in-person perfume shopping either. There are too many distractions for me to focus on anything. What I do like is to get in-person samples. But if I’m going to buy anything, I’ll do it online – also with codes, or deeply discounted 😉
Oh I love this topic. I have a wishlist in the form of a spreadsheet and the order keeps changing. My most recent craving is Dior’s Leather Oud but I guess I could finally be persuaded into not purchasing it.
Apart from that, Nuit de Bakélite from Naomi Goodsir is currently on top of the list…
I think someone split the Nuit de Bakélite In the SPLITMEET, no? Or is a full bottle needed in order to satisfy? I confess, I haven’t sniffed it and I just can’t get past the name…
SOTD = Sultan Pasha Irisoir
This is ecstasy in a bottle.
https://thescentedhound.com/2017/02/14/sultan-pasha-attars-aurum-danghkhor-irisoir/
Oh, instant lemming! Dang it ????
It has spiciness of carnation and the butteriness of orris butter. The bottle is very tiny so it will not take up much room in your perfume nook…
Kill me now ????
I know, right?
Soooo, small bottles are the new free?
This one is not perfumath free no matter how much I squint 🙂
Wuf. Just checked those out. . . sounds amazing–and totally out of reach! Too bad there isn’t a sample set, perhaps a dabber wand dipped in each attar?
You smell AMAZING!!! This is one of my favs from his line
Heh, a good chunk of my decants came from you and given that we read many of the same blogs and have similar perfume type loves, I KNEW you would know this one!
Wow. That sounds gorgeous.
It is!
You smell gorgeous!!! I want to sit next to you haha.
Irisoir is amazing, its on my wishlist.
One of the best iris-focused fragrances ever imho.
I think my 8-sample set (from over 2 years ago) is probably all dried up by now. This one, I ordered a year ago, pretty much as soon as I read about it and there was a bit of a delay before I got it. Anyway, it was definitely worth the wait for this outstanding perfume.
What an interesting read (and it’s just giving me new ideas – please stop mentioning that Idylle Love Blossom already so I don’t blind buy it)!
I am happily sampling the next batch of Nicolai samples that arrived today, but made the mistake of spraying Jardin sur le Nil next to the dabbed on Eau mixte because they seemed similar – well, now they are, because all I smell is the Jardin! I also have a cold and am probably missing all the subtleties of any scent today.
Sacrebleu intense on the other wrist – my older daughter, who is required to comment frequently on samples, said “smells just like Lush”, I said “no, it doesn’t!”, but then realized she was right – it does remind me of a less intense version of Karma. Daughter pocketed the Karma…
Heh. I blame Elisa P and the Idylle LB was almost free at discounters….
I guess I need to be talked off the ledge for the Jo Malone grain series. I don’t want to buy them blindly, I don’t want to buy samples, and the closest counter is 90 minutes away.
I think I just talked myself down – thanks inertia!
SOTD is Nomad Tea by Comme des Garçons. Nice but not earth shattering.
Inertia and ennui are our friends????????
This!
????????????
If you aren’t motivated to buy samples then perhaps your inner voice is telling you to pass on it?
Ok, one of my splits arrived today WOW LOVE IT.
Thanks to Cazaubon for introducing me to l’Artisan NF Violaceum – it is really classy comfortable scent, it opened up little sweet maybe plummy reminded me of De Profundis and then the violet took over and there is this incredible middle that is just yummy with what I think is ambergris in the dry down (gotta look up the notes, my wine tasting has flooded the brain cells) I reallllllly like this. Great Pick!!! U rock.
Happy weekend all.
Hey, you sound like a happy customer!! Since it seems like this is THE REAL THING, maybe you should buy a full bottle?
No, wait, I think I have this backwards…
Hey, glad you like it! It was very leathery on me.
The top of my list is Hiram Green Shangri La- probably the travel size. I can’t really bring myself to buy many full bottles, I have TOO MUCH! But I may control the urge, we are going to London and Paris this summer and I will carve out a little time for perfume shopping….
Those Travel Size bottles are adorable and MAKE A LOT OF SENSE! I keep looking at them….
I bought a travel size of Shangra-la last fall. This is my second one. They really are the perfect size. I found mine at Twisted Lily but I’m sure they can be found elsewhere.
I got mine from Lucky Scent and it was worth every penny.
I must confess I did not step back from the edge earlier this week when I ordered the last bottle of Il Profumo Vanille Bourbon from Notino 😉 which puts me at 40ish% of my perfume budget for 2018.
But…
It appears to be an older bottle/design with hopefully older juice
Was $10 cheaper than Luckyscent
They had a 10% off code (finally)
There was no tax
And…
It was the last bottle in stock!!! The final sign!
Once again the Gods (the old and the new…GOT reference 😉 ) spoke to me and I knew it was ok to purchase.
But yeah after this and the Splitmeet, I need to sit back and spray what I’ve got. Cover my ears when the old and new Gods start whispering to me again…
Hey, you’ve done a lot of research to find a vanilla you like, so I say enjoy your new juice! ????
Congrats on a successful find in your Vanilla Quest! I’m not gonna aruge with that.
Damn, another typo! “Argue”.
I swear, auto correct is making me look like an idiot. How can I spell and type a word(s) correctly, and auto correct turns it into a hot mess? ????
Seems that half the time my autocorrect doesn’t even flag the typo anymore! It’s off in the ether somewhere having a latte. ☕
Oh, yay! When things line up like that, there’s not much a girl can do…
I am wearing Mendittorosa Rituale today courtesy of LisainDenver and the splitmeet. This is a beautiful perfume and I’m so happy to have my little decant.
I’ve wanted a few very expensive scents for a long time now. At the top of my list are FBs of Opardu by Puredistance and Mohur Extrait. I have dwindling decants of both scents. I need other things far more. It’s a never ending list of what I need vs what I want.
Lisa very generously included a few extra samples in my split package. One is Florentina, a scent that wasn’t even on my radar. It’s really soft and pretty….le sigh…. My wish list just gets longer and longer and I am hopeless.
I’ve been stepping back from The Different Company’s De Bachmakov since it was released. Firstly, I can’t justify the cost when I can get wonderful fragrances with the same unisex vibe for much less. (This is also the argument I have with myself about Chanel Eau de Cologne.) For example, I just bought a 3.4 oz. bottle of Ninfeo Mio for $39.00. I’m ready for summer! Secondly, by the time I finished my De Bachmakov decant, I also worried in case it had been reformulated. I’ll probably just buy another sample to check it and then another decant. I really don’t need any more large bottles of perfume.
You and me both! If it came in a cheap 15 ml I’d already own it 10 times over.
https://europe.thedifferentcompany.com/de-bachmakov-10ml-de-voyage,fr,4,BKOV1052SF.cfm
Dont know if it ships to USA, sorry if it does not. But its sold exclusively on their website.
Sorry, a cheapie like this, just cant resist. ????
Thanks Jiji. That’s around $27.00. Not sure about the shipping cost, but it may still be cheaper than The Perfumed Court.
If there are more TDCs to your liking do costs per bottle become less, its a nice deal.
I am a big fan of Bois d’Iris and I like Sel d Vetiver as well…
Quickly popping in to post a link to last year’s Steeping Back from the Edge poll:
https://nstperfume.com/2017/02/11/lazy-weekend-poll-stepping-back-from-the-edge-episode-5/#comments
It’s a big one! Over 500 comments!
Oh my…I went through my comments. Between the splitmeet that followed and simple badassery:
– I bought the Chanel EDP coffret
– I bought Lush Cardamom & Coffee (that floragal mentioned)
– I split Aftelier Wild Roses EDP
– I split JM Myrrh & Tonka (and then also bought myself a 50 mL bottle)
– I probably ended up enabling a few people…these polls do end up having the opposite effect
A few?! ????????????
Pin me!
Turned out it didn’t work for me. But I appreciate their unique scent creations and great that they’re finally being sold in the states.
Hope you loved them all. ???? I stopped in at my nearest Lush the other day & was disappointed that they didn’t have C&C. What do you think if it?
I love it! This blog is on FIRE this weekend! ????????
“Steeping”?!? Oh for heaven’s sake! I guess I had tea on my mind when I posted the link. It should be “Stepping”!
heh heh, but many of us are definitely “steeping” in perfume. 😀
Started off with leathers-Galop then Cuir de Russie. If I had to pick a winner, it would be CdR. Got an e-mail from Fumerie regarding storage/how long do fragrances last. Which had me thinking about a frustrating situation with a bottle of edp I sold on eBay. It smelled quite nice to me (date code on the bottle was around 2012, thought it was a recent purchase on my end) no noticeable “off” notes from beginning to end. The buyer said the top notes were off – so who’s “right” in this situation. I refunded the purchase, and have decided to not sell again. Fragrance is so subjective, and if I had thought the edp I sold was spoiled, I wouldn’t have listed it in the first place. Have a great weekend!
I think that’s mainly a myth designed to boost perfume sales. That said, there are certain perfumes (like Prescriptives Calyx) are notorious for turning, and light exposure can degrade perfumes.
Personally, I always give sellers the benefit of the doubt for the reasons you mention — I certainly want them to keep selling!
I’ve noticed that some perfume sellers very carefully spell out a number of caveats in the details of their items. I don’t know if that solves the problem entirely, though. Other sellers are clearly asking for buyers to give them a chance to rectify any problem rather than risk bad feedback. I know I’m always looking at the feedback before buying from a new seller.
I hope we hear from other commenters with selling experience.
I sold a number of bottles on ebay over the years but I have stopped. I had perfect feedback and then had one buyer leave negative feedback (without contacting me beforehand) saying she was “Dissapointed (sic) in the scent.” My bottle was a year or two old, and reformulation happens. I would have refunded her had she let me know. So no more ebay for me. I just swap now.
That’s frustrating – especially when it could’ve been handled without the negative snack. Giving and swapping are much easier!
Ugh, that’s so unfair! It’s not easy to be a seller.
I stick with perfect feedback sellers as well – there are many great sellers out there!
I don’t only buy from sellers with 100% feedback, because I know some buyers are unreasonable or flaky. I take a look at the actual feedback when I have doubts to see if what’s being dinged matters to me, and the overall impression that I get. It depends on how rare the item is, too.
But I guess all other things being equal I’ll buy from the seller with better feedback.
Oh ok I see what you are saying. ????
My approach is similar to nozknoz’s, plus I have a few different other loose “rules.” If I have doubts, I’ll look at the seller’s store to see what else they’re selling. I feel a lot more confident if the seller either specializes in perfume, or if they appear to be a perfumista offloading her collection.
The only sellers I actively avoid are newbies who have “too good to be true” deals. I tend to assume they are selling counterfeits. But if it’s too good to be true because it looks like the seller doesn’t know the value of the perfume (otherwise sells car parts, or random stuff from garage sales, or whatever), I’ll go for it.
Not a seller, but a frequent buyer, and was going to say the same thing as nozknoz about long lists of caveats. It’s a buy-at-your-own-risk kind of thing — at least that’s how I approach it.
But I’ve also been really hesitant to sell for the same reasons. It seems high-risk, with a lot of room for dissatisfaction, and I’m not sure I want to spend my time dealing with aholes.
Flopper, don’t let one bad apple ruin it for you. I’m not at all experienced in EBay, but there must be other avenues that might work for you? Any perfume that I have bought “second hand-ish” has always been clearly listed as non-refundable, so I think you were quite kind to return her money. I sure hope she sent the bottle back to you! And not to be suspicious, did you check it to make sure the contents hadn’t been tampered with? I have trust issues in these situations ????
Ha, just for that very reason you mention, I didn’t want the bottle back. This has only happened twice, and I’ve sold over a hundred bottles with perfect feedback. And both buyers did something similar, to gain my trust, which if I do decide to sell again, I’ll be more the wiser.????
Well, I’m sorry this happened to you.
Ugh on the PSA at saks.com…now it is down to 4%…so much for the 20% cash back. Sorry guys!
I am debating La Pausa EDP since EDT is out of reach – I do not trust eBay and I have not seen one pop up for sale. Have you guys tried EDP and have opinions on it?
I think it’s very different. Don’t buy without sampling first!
I haven’t tried it but want to after said Victoria at BdJ very positive things about it recently…”I’d be in for 10 ml” said the person already at 40ish% of her 2018 perfume budget… 😉 I liked the EDT but it was terribly fleeting to me.
https://boisdejasmin.com/2018/01/top-10-of-winter.html#more-25573
Victoria at BdJ *said* that is
Use 8 sprays…will last all day!
I feel like I’m perpetually “on the edge”, and yet, I try to keep bigger purchases in mind (e.g. European travel) and remind myself how much I already have. It’s definitely not easy especially living in NYC where the temptation to purchase stuff is all around you, every day. I think it was in the NYTimes I read an end of year op-ed or some type of essay on the word “enough” that really spoke to me and continues to challenge me to not feed the “more, more, more” monster.
I love a great sale and I easily can justify a purchase because I’m “saving so much”. And there’s that sweet spot on price — for me, $50 and under, and I will pull the trigger.
So… right now I’m looking at Cocoa Tuberose by Providence Perfume Co. since it’s been discontinued and there’s a great giveaway at Beautyhabit but, I can’t recall if I really like this one. Samples are hard to come by and even though it’s only $45 I’ve recently purchased a few things that I thought I recall really liking and turned out I was wrong! I’m confusing my samples from years of sampling! It’s in my basket but… holding off so far.
SOTD: Philosykos
PS. Made these scones this morning for a brunch I hosted and they were pretty dang amazing. Make sure your butter and milk (I used cream) are ice cold, flash freeze them and don’t overwork the dough. Folks raved. http://orangette.net/2015/04/i-like-to-imagine/
Oh, that recipe looks lovely. I don’t really think you can go wrong with Molly’s blog. I’m considering her new cookbook dedicated to Instant Pot recipes, but I Don’t Need Another Cookbook.
Yes, another weakness of mine: cookbooks!
Do you follow SmittenKitchen as well? Bought her recent book and so disappointed in the recipe options. Not very relatable, not Deb Perelman to me. 🙁
I love Smitten Kitchen! Actually attended a signing of her first book a few years ago. She’s super sweet.
I totally agree with you WRT her second book. It didn’t have easy recipes, and that was the point of the book! She seemed like she was ‘reaching’, somehow.
I love her first cookbook, though. The browned butter Rice Krispie bars are to die for. I’ll never make them any other way.
Those are the best! I’ve made a lot from that book, it’s very well done.
I saw her do a q&a in Dec. at the 92Y with David Lebowitz that was fun. She’ seems very sweet.
I didn’t know that Cocoa Tuberose was disco’d. It’s a rough natural smelling patchouli/tuberose with cocoa notes. To me the tuberose is a little green but it is still a sweet scent. Not over-the-top sweet. It reminds me of Coromandel with a dark cocoa rather than white. The patch has that velvety texture.
Hmm.. and I love Coromandel. Thank you for this mini-review. 😉
I just finished up a 5 ml rollerball around Xmas.
I’m in Eau de Merveilles edt, and it smells like laundry soap on me. And not even fancy schmancy laundry soap. Oh well, that’s why I have a FB of Voyage, and not EdM! I love Voyage, edt or edp.
If there’s a deep and abiding hankering I have, it is for Erdenstern. I’ve had a couple of opportunities to sample a bit of it, and it’s wonderful, so restful and meditative, but definitely not in the budget.
Self talk: not in budget. Repeat, not in budget. Almost summertime, so not the right season. Repeat, not the right season!
Must be the musk they use in EdM. It doesn’t turn on me. I don’t love it but I do enjoy wearing it.
Oh, maybe that’s what’s bugging me. It has calmed down now, thankfully.
Calling All Angels I’d like to have as well. I had a very small decant and I can’t find it! I’ll definitely be purchasing some more as it’s an incense that really works for me. I wish she did smaller bottles.
I bought a 15 ml travel size of CAA directly from the April Aromatics website. It’s a pretty powerful perfume, so the travel size is a nice alternative to a FB. I really love it but don’t often find a chance to wear it. The travel size is very similar in appearance to the full size, if that matters to you.
CAA is out of stock on the 15mls! The only one, of course. :/
It’s probably one of her more popular scents. I’m sure it will come back in stock but I am sorry that I mentioned it without checking first! ????
That one gets lots of love here, but I wasn’t taken with it. Ugh, I just checked the AA site, and when you buy a 15ml travel size, you get your choice of two free 2.5ml samples. So, theoretically, I could get a 20ml bottle of Erdenstern at 25% off.
Y’all. I need professional help. ????
Still a bit more restrained than going for a FB. ????
I was good, just emptied my cart and got off the site. ????
Important question: Does anyone know how to open the Galop d’Hermes stirrup bottle? Since it’s a refillable bottle, it must open, right?
Yes turn the sprayer mechanism – it unscrews. It’s on their pretty tight.
There*
yikes.
Hmmm I guess I’ll keep trying. Thanks!
The piece that houses the sprayer (close to the metal of the bottle) is what unscrews. I opened my bottle to make sure I told you the right thing ????
I got it! I ended up having to unscrew the stirrup frame. You must be stronger than I am—I just couldn’t get the leverage without taking the frame off.
Great! Makes decanting so much easier when the top unscrews!!
Too late to talk me off the edge…I did what I do and blind bought Slowdive the other day. I keep doing this with the Hiram Greens, I just have to have them.
Other than that, I’ve been lemming after Bottega Veneta Eau des Velours. Managed to snag some samoles from Holt’s and it has me wavering. It is very nice but also very similar to the original but doesn’t seem to be as long lasting. On the other hand, it is a bit more office friendly. On the other other hand, I’m planning on leaving the office world soon (fingers crossed). Yet, I just have way too much perfume already. But then, it is limited edition. Gaaahhhh!
Slowdive is getting lots of props here. I am trying to resist those cute travel bottles.
BV was the scent that sent me down the rabbit hole. Oddly, I only had a mini, which I passed on to someone. I found it very “big”…
You just talked me into sticking with the original. Fingers crossed for you leaving the office world!
I looove Slowdive! I am fighting the urge to stockpile it, just like I did with PHI Rose de Kandahar and Encens Flamboyant.
BV Eau de velours is a lemming of mine as well 🙂
The two things I am planning to buy this summer are LPRN Black Perfecto and a bell jar of SL Borneo 1834. But I am really interested in the new Malle, Music for a While. I plan to get a sample, hoping I don’t love it as I will be very tempted to buy a bottle. I should really wait for December though when I make my annual online purchase from First in Fragrance or Essenza Nobile as it’s so much cheaper that way.
I hope to get a sample of Music for a while from Barneys. Have you tried The Promise?
Yes and it was horrendously skanky and overpowering on me. One spritz and I was choking.
Yikes. Thanks.
Cazaubon, I have a bottle of LPRN BF that needs a new home. Uh, I just remembered that you’re in the UK, is this right? I’m in US, but do send me a message if you would like to consider it. 🙂
Standing dawt armsakimbo in gee-male land.
I am currently in the US, emailing you now!
Got it!
Currently wearing Caron’s Le Troisieme Homme, which I am learning to appreciate more and more as I better understand it. A wonderful fragrance. Maybe just to preserve its novelty as a signature, I’ve been wanting to purchase something else for spring, and curious to revisit Grey Flannel… This is a tricky one. I wore it as a teenager in the late 1980’s; that early formulation was stunning, especially the contrast between the grassy violet leaf and gloomy oakmoss notes. It was changed considerably when it was resurrected by French Fragrances (later EA) in the 2000’s. The latest version (sometime after 2013 or 14?), which, post-IFRA, is bereft of oakmoss, is just too synthetic and linear for my tastes. Anyway, the edge I’m inching towards takes the form of one of the largish splash bottles one can still find fairly cheaply on line… These look to be just a bit older (less oakmoss that the older stuff, but still a little), as I don’t think EA made the splash bottles, which are, in any case, my favourite way to put on scent. Does anyone know if this assumption is correct? Talk me out of it if you want! You’ll save me about $40 CDN…
My husband still has his Egoist from the 1990s, a big splash bottle. I love that one splashed although in general I prefer spray bottles.
There are a few Etat Libres (discovery set, Dangerous Complicity, La Fin du Monde, Noel et Balcon and Fils de Dieu) on TK Maxx’s Website (UK) at the moment. Don’t buy them. 😉
Ha! I don’t think that’s how this goes. . .
Escentual, had a 25% off sale last week. I had been eyeing up the Amouage sets for a while. Whilst I have not sniffed any of these the packaging is lovely and I’m sure I would like a few of them and the rest I could swap out. Anyhooo, I ordered both and am waiting for them to be delivered. ????
Robin, I blame you! If this post had of been a week earlier, I would be a lot richer. ????
This is definitely my one and only purchase this quarter! ????
Oh what fun! Amouage was the luxury house that convinced me that *sometimes* the connotations are rightly earned. Beautiful, well-crafted, complex scents are definitely available in that line! Be sure to report back what you find you enjoy.
I’ve had my eye on those Amouage sample sets for a while, too. Lucky you! ????
I was going to buy the sample sets but fell in love with the travel sets, ooops! Let’s hope I like them! They are beautiful though. ????
I’ll be traveling to Budapest in April via London Heathrow with a rather long layover, and shopping for a new Amouage selection is a top priority for me on that trip. It’s like going into an elegant candy store, so much to see and taste (smell)! I walk straight past all the other big names to the Amouage section.
I must admit to not having smelt them before, but I read a lot of love for them. I have done a little research on the notes etc, so here’s hoping they work for me ???????? If not i will still have the beautiful travel sets to look at (sigh).
Enjoy Budapest Calypso. I visited there a few years ago and had an amazing trip. Such a beautiful, friendly city.
Two years a pefumista and I am already starting to get weary of certain brands and releases. I also find a it less easy to fall in love with a fragrance now. I have sampled dozens and dozens and dozens of perfumes last half year but hardly a handful of buys.
Yes I have a short wishlist but no urgency to buy.
And I want to save money for other cool stuff (vacation/travel, fancy dining, clothes). Those things are also very important to me.
So maybe this means I am just not worthy of calling myself a perfumista? Haha ????
Anyways, i am wearing Jasmin rouge today and its gorgeous and made me forget all about the jasmine scents i tried friday. ????(And I already have a bottle of JR, so no need to hold me back or enable me here)
Oh no, no, you are still a perfumista; you’ve just reached the next level–I like to consider it becoming a perfume connoisseur. It is like the point when someone has enough experience with wine that they feel confident with meal pairings, but they’re not quite a sommelier to their friends. I find it a quite enjoyable position to be in–less urgency to test, acquire. . . invest. Enjoy contentment!
Next level. Sounds good to me. ???? Well said, Marjorie.
And yes I am actually pretty happy with it.
The urgency to hunt eveything down is gone and i have build a sample collection that could last me at least two years haha ????
I agree with Marjorie Rose. I think it’s just becoming more discerning after smelling many more perfumes. That happened to me, too.
I agree with Marjorie & Elisa! It is certainly impossible to keep up with all of the new releases – unless you’re willing to sacrifice all of your relationships and your career ????
really taking your time with a fragrance, wearing it multiple times in different ways – reading up on it – making connections, all a way to enjoy the hobby without testing new perfumes and acquiring more
I agree. And don’t forget the “all of your money” in the sacrificing department. ????
Oh yeah ????????????????????
I’m also agreeing with folks who have already posted that when the “Gotta Get Them All” crazies pass, you are still a perfumista. You’ve just leveled up. I’ve noticed a change in how I sniff things during my perfume journey.
Agreed, I’m only a year or two in myself, but you get to the stage when everything is ‘meh’. I don’t have access to a lot of the niche brands locally to me, so I live vicariously through everyone else’s posts. This suits me and my wallet!
The last lemming I got drawn into was the mini LADDM by Tauer. This is amazing stuff and I’m sure it is better sprayed that dabbed but I can live with the small splash bottle for a while.
I go in and out of perfume – caught the bug big time about 4 years ago, dived into indie perfumers and found very little I loved (except some of the SSS stuff), read Turin’s guide, ordered samples of a lot of the highly reviewed stuff, didn’t love a lot of that either, then kind of didn’t engage much and fell back into the rabbit hole this past summer – and it was so random – ambling trough a Swiss department store (Loeb) and finding my way to a bottle of Jardin sur le Nil. I subsequently read both JCE’s books (the local library had them!), then read the two Chander Burr books and am now really enjoying trying and testing, reading reviews here and people’s opinions.
But having said that, I still feel like a total noob. What does oak moss smell like? Is that note I don’t like heliotrope? Is the note I love labdanum? etc. I think what’s great about perfume is how easy it is to engage with it – and it’s an easy distraction on a busy day. Plus, a nice big learning curve!
SOTD = Shalimar Ode a la Vanille Sur la Route du Mexique
I had coffee so was able to write the whole thing out. This is more vanilla rather than iris-centric but I will count it as wearing an iris because it’s there. This is by far my favorite Shalimar and I have a good memory tie in as I bought this at the Galeries Lafayette in Paris!
I ended up using my $50 coupon (with $200 purchase) at Saks and I am waiting a few days to check with eBates to see if I got 4% or 20%. Regardless, I got a refill bottle of Mugler Aura and coughcoughtwoofthegrainseriesJMscoughcough. I’m still working on Splitmeet splits and will get that done before posting a split interest comment for the Aura. Decants of the two JMs will be up for the next Swapmeet.
How do you like Aura? I was gifted a bottle on Valentine’s day, and find it pretty easy to wear. I like it more each time.
It is primarily a vanilla to my nose. I also think it is very easy to wear and office friendly.
I’m interested aura split – I know it was released in July – not sure when it came to US – but I happened to see it recently at Macy’s. I think it does seem pretty easy to wear – I’m thinking of gifting it to a friend because of hat bottle 🙂 but I would love to have her try it out first to make sure she doesn’t think it’s repulsive – and I like it too.
My order technically qualified for a mini Aura but somehow one of the codes I used disqualified me for that gift but eh, I will try to wheedle one out of a Nordstrom SA at some point ????
Ohhh, is the mini a green heart as well?
Yes.
I saw right through your coughing fit 😉
Aside from Honey & Crocus which other JM did you get?
The primrose one. The dept. stores are running low or have run out of some of the perfumes.
I didn’t try any on skin but on paper I liked primrose the most.
Yes and the Jo Malone online is completely sold out.
I just tried Diptyque Fleur de Peau (orris + musk + pink pepper + ambrette) and Tempo (patchouli + violet leaf + clary sage + more.) The Fleur de Peau is beautiful and easy to wear, an insta-lemming for sure 😀
Tempo isn’t really in my wheelhouse but layered with Fleur de Peau, it becomes very similar to AP Iris Celadon.
Sigh. I just remembered a major major WANT that I forgot to attempt to split. Aesop Hwyl.. If anyone’s interested, please let me know..?
Testing out my decant of Baiser de Russie. I really like the opening which is sort of a watery green and juicy plum. Almost reminds me a little of Cire Trudon Deux but sweeter. Not finding it boozy at all. After about 15 min it’s mostly caramel/vanilla on me with some fruity plumminess and pretty soft, which for me is a good thing. Not sure how I feel about caramel but I think gourmand fans will really enjoy this one!
Oh, this news delights me????
Wearing vintage Bal right now half hoping that I am outbid on the vintage Feminite du Bois. The Serge Lutens version is wonderful but I love the original too. When I get my tax refund, some of it is earmarked for another year for Amazon Prime but I am thinking of either getting a bottle of Liu or the LADDM (too lazy to get the title). I don’t need anymore perfume and can’t exactly justify any more perfume but want more.
Testing out a sample of Bulgari Goldea from the freebiemeet!
I was so good for the last two years about not buying full bottles, and then somehow the end of 2017 turned into a /must have them/ fest! That’s the only way I can explain the fb of Assam of India, because there’s no way I’m ever getting through the whole bottle, no matter how cheap it was.
And now I’m bidding on an old bottle of Rose Poivree on eBay… XD
Please halp!
Ugh, and the SL website looks like it might have an error that would make a 100ml bottle of Fleurs de Oranger attainable if they honor the listed price!
No, don’t do it! Don’t be silly, can’t spend that money (unless someone wants to split it…)!
SL’s Fleurs de Oranger is my scent of the day. I have a few sprays left in my bottle (which is the original vintage) but I also have a back-up bottle, (Yes, there was a time that I purchased a back-up bottle when I really loved a fragrance, but I don’t do that any more.)
XD I don’t think I go through anything fast enough to need a backup bottle, though sometimes I fear not having enough of something to survive future reformulations.
PSA: Neiman Marcus has a $50 off $200 deal AND eBates is offering 10% cash back. I have no affiliation whatsoever, just doing my community service – mwahahahaha (hey really, if you are in the market to buy perfumes, you might as well SAVE in the process)
By any chance, hajusuuri, do you have an underground lair (possibly in an extinct volcano)?
Marjorie Rose, I see it now. How did I miss it? It‘s all in the little dog‘s eyes. “I daren’t move. SHE’S BEHIND ME!”
Nooooooooo!!!!! I will not succumb to your temptations!
hajusuuri, do you ever use topcashback? their cashback % is usually higher than ebates AND you can get cash back as soon as it’s available. I have no affiliation whatsoever either – I’m just another cashback-motivated shopper 😉 That said, I can send you a link that gets us both some kind of extra promotion if you want to join up.
If you don’t mind, I’ll e-mail you for the link.
I’ll email you too since I hate passing up “free” money eventhough I have to spend to get the free LOL
You ARE a terrible enabler! Now I find myself browsing the N-M site, trying to INCULCATE an urge to purchase. The exact opposite of what this poll is supposed to be all about! I don’t have any strong perfume desires at the moment, but I may soon develop one. Perhaps Agonist Black Amber?
There is hope for me! I passed up the NM temptation nor did I use the Twisted Lily personal coupon code (too many exclusions so I gave up)…this is not to say I did not shop!
Posting my GIVE-AWAY again! It may have gotten buried in my comment yesterday. Deets:
4-sample discovery set from Gallivant (Brooklyn, Tel Aviv, London, Istanbul). I double-ordered 2 from Twisted Lily, and they credited me *and* let me keep it. Wasn’t that nice?
Also adding partially-used discovery set from Oriza L. LeGrand (8 altogether), and a set of mini’s from soivohle. And maybe a few random others. ????
Please contact me at standing dawt armsakimbo in gee-male land.
Please live in ConUS.
Happy sniffing, all!
I have emailed you….those cities scents sound tempting!
I have bought more perfume than I should have this year. The last purchase I made was Masque Milano L’ Attesa and I vowed that I would not buy another bottle of perfume in the very near future. I have an extensive collection and could never even use up a quarter of it in what I have left in my lifetime expectancy. At the moment I am not craving any particular perfume. I do not own one bottle of perfume from Roja and have thought about sampling them, but then decided that was not a good idea because I would probably want at least one of them and they are very pricey. I do set limits on the price of the perfumes I buy.
These comments have been keeping me entertained all weekend! Good to know I’m not alone as I teeter on the edge of the fragrance abyss.
I still smell like Naja because I’m wearing the same shirt. However, laundry is done, van is cleaned, T-Rex has been fed, pottied, and had her nails clipped, so I’m off to the shower. I think I’ll go with Taklamakan when I’m all freshly scrubbed.
If it would stop raining so T-Rex could get outside for some exercise, it would be a perfect low key weekend.
I’m not on the verge of buying anything (major) and already talked myself back from some samples and used that $ to support the March For Our Lives kids instead.
I did, however, buy a little bottle of JM Mimosa & Cardamom this weekend, which struck me as a little dull initially then really grew on me. I think it’ll be nice for spring.
Otherwise, the splitmeet has salved most of my lemmings.
I finally smelled Rose Jam (they now have a year-round body spray) yesterday and didn’t particularly like it (whew! 😉 ). I sprayed some on my H, who hated it and was perfume-tormented for the rest of the day, as we were out and about with no way to scrub. He did like JM Red Roses, though, which surprised me. I thought it would be too feminine — apparently not.
I spent the day rapturous in EB La Femme Boheme (thank you, melisand61, for the split!) and am luxuriating in Les Néréides Patchouli Précieux today.
I am so bummed that tonight’s the last episode of Victoria. I liked, but did not love season 1, but season 2 has been sooo good. I love the relationship between Victoria and Albert and between Albert and Ernst. We watched the movie Victoria and Abdul last weekend, which I really enjoyed. The actor who played the future King Edward was amazing – I won’t say who it was as I had no idea who I was watching until the credits rolled.
Something I saw earlier this weekend, but forgot to post about it until just now. I got an email from Pacifica saying that their candles were being d/c’ed, so they were 40% off. When I checked the website earlier today, all the candles were sold out. So whoever had expressed fears about Pacifica ditching the candles, well, you were right.
That was me! such a pity because they were so good and so affordable.