Our “Recommend Me a Perfume” thread is open this week. You can use this space to find perfume recommendations, to share your discoveries and favorite scents, and to ask any questions about scents, aromas and flavors. Or you can just tell us what perfume you are wearing!
How does it work: 1. Please post your requests or questions as comments here. You can also use this space to ask any fragrance related questions. To receive recommendations that are better tailored to your tastes, you can include details on what you like and don’t like, your signature perfumes, and your budget. And please let us know what you end up sampling. 2. Then please check the thread to see if there are other requests you can answer. Your responses are really valuable for navigating the big and sometimes confusing world of perfume, so let’s help each other!
To make this thread easier to read, when you reply to someone, please click on the blue “reply” link under their comment.
Photography by Bois de Jasmin, immortelle
142 Comments
Tracy: Hello!
I was curious to see if anyone else is a fan of Neroli in fragrance. I purchased Clinique My Happy Blue Sky and adore it. Such disappointment when they discontinued it! So, I moved on to Clean Reserve Acqua Neroli. If anyone else loves Neroli and has suggestions, I’d love to hear them. Thank you! August 22, 2022 at 9:18am
Victoria: I have a video on this very topic:
https://youtu.be/V-0XTPXX6fk
You can take a look, if you like. August 22, 2022 at 10:03am
Fleurycat: Dear Victoria.
So glad to see your blog in my mail feed again. You’ve been missed. In these difficult times we still need to connect to what is beautiful. It is nice to recognize so many thoughtful voices in these comments and replies.
Thank you. August 22, 2022 at 3:19pm
Cathy W.: Thank you for this video Victoria! For some reason, I enjoy scent notes so much more when I know a bit more about them….As a fan of Neroli I’m really appreciating this background info.
Cathy W. Nova Scotia, Canada August 23, 2022 at 8:38am
Sarah Vincent-Hoag: Hi Tracy,
I’m a fan of neroli too. I love Yves Rocher Neroli, it’s really natural smelling. And Nicolai does a great job with neroli. Cap Neroli, Neroli Intense and L’eau Mixte are all great variations on Neroli. I’ve almost drained my bottle of Cap and working on bottles of the others. Cap Neroli is unusual, it smells almost like Indian incense, it’s a bit spicy and a little jammy to my nose. Neroli Intense is a gorgeous, strong and straightforward neroli, a bit on the sweet side, but not too sweet. L’eau Mixte is kind of a beautiful herbaceous cologn-ey fragrance with a lovely neroli note to it. There are many more beautiful nerolis out there, but these are my favorites. August 22, 2022 at 11:34am
Sebastian: Very nice characterizations of Cap Neroli and Neroli Intense, thank you. I like them, too. I gave my bottle of Neroli Intense to a friend whose signature scent it now is.
I recently tried Libertine Neroli by Francesca Bianchi. It’s one those classically inspired leathery chypres so typical of Bianchi, but, well, with Neroli. And in contrast to Sex and the Sea Neroli, which I do not like, the combination does work here. I find it a bit sweet and turgid, though not too much, and softened by powdery iris. August 23, 2022 at 1:10pm
Nina Z: This summer I’m loving Berber Blonde from Sana Jardin. Top notes are Petitgrain, Bitter Orange and Bergamot; middle notes are Neroli and Orange Blossom; base note is Musk. It’s bright and on the drier side. August 22, 2022 at 12:40pm
OnWingsofSaffron: Berber Blonde is truly wonderful! I spray it on one arm and Savage Jasmin on the other. The Sana Jardin parfume are meant to be layered! August 22, 2022 at 2:36pm
Kimberly: Have you tried Neroli & Orchidee from L’Occitane? Mine is the EDT but I understand they just came out with an Eau Intense. August 22, 2022 at 12:45pm
Charlotte: Hi Tracy, I love neroli too! There are so many beautiful options. I’m not familiar with the two you mention but two of my favourites are Hermes Eau de Neroli Dore, which is very juicy, light and a bit spicy with saffron, and Histoire d’Orangers by L’Artisan, to my nose very clean musk blended with neroli and just a touch of bitterness from the white tea note. I find the latter has very good projection for such a light note. And for something much more affordable, I just tried the classic 4711 cologne and loved it. Soapy, fresh orange blossom 🙂 August 22, 2022 at 12:52pm
Aurora: Hi Tracy: Nice to see all the love for neroli, I will add Floris Special 127 which apart from neroli has a lovely petitgrain(leaves and twigs of the orange tree) note, Diptyque l’Eau de Neroli, sweeter and Lancôme Ô de l’ Orangerie which starts a little bitter then becomes sweet, very unique. August 22, 2022 at 1:25pm
Adam: I’m not a big fan only because it reminds me of Coppertone (tanning lotion). That said, I’m really enjoying 4711, which reminds me of a sample I tried of Tom Ford’s Nerolis Portafino, at a millionth of the price! I also really like Mugler Cologne, though to my nose the neroli is not the prominent note. August 22, 2022 at 1:26pm
OnWingsofSaffron: Hermès Néroli Doré! Absolutely wonderful! August 22, 2022 at 2:37pm
Cathy W: Thank you for mentioning this one….it’s at the top of my list of “interesting ones to try” August 23, 2022 at 8:44am
Courant: I bought the Elie Saab, Essence series, Neroli and have worn it through 2 summers August 22, 2022 at 5:08pm
Nettie M Spiwack: Love Neroli. Has anyone tried Gritti’s Neroli Extreme? I haven’t but it’s on my list. August 22, 2022 at 8:08pm
Cathy W.: Hello Tracy…..Loving this whole thread-I’m also a fan of Neroli. I consider myself lucky to have a small bottle of Tom Ford Neroli Portofino which I’ve been enjoying very much for a couple of years. I’m also enjoying a sample that I received this summer Of Aqua Allegoria Nerolia Vetivir….I’m finding it summery and light. I’d describe it as coastal/beachy….not a day at the beach like coppertone/oceanic- but like a walk on the beach, coastline, rocks, fresh air, hints of nearby gardens. (hope this makes sense). The write up mentions basil and figs and I think there is a definite hint of these that gives a nice base. I’d suggest it’s worth a try. August 23, 2022 at 8:35am
Charlotte: Hi Cathy, this sounds lovely! I love some of the older AAs (Lys Soleia, Pamplelune, Herba Fresca). I’ve found the ones I’ve tried more recently a bit boring and unoriginal, but Nerolia Vetiver sounds right up my street. I’m wondering how it compares to Wood Sage and Sea Salt by Jo Malone, and Un Air de Bretagne by L’Artisan Parfumeur (both of which I love!)? August 26, 2022 at 4:31pm
Maggiecat: Jo Malone’s Basil and Neroli is truly lovely and got me through a post-surgical hospital stay. It blends beautifully with Wood Sage and Sea Salt too. August 23, 2022 at 3:34pm
Jody: I need help with a replacement fragrance. I used to wear Estee Lauder Private Collection until it was disconnected. I have not found another fragrance that works as well with my chemistry. Any suggestions? August 22, 2022 at 9:21am
K: Hi, I bought Private Collection quite recently both in store and it’s online. I’m based in the UK. I think it will be a hard one to follow if you really have to go for something else but I would suggest Chanel 19, and the poudre version, Frederic Malle Synthetic Jungle, Guerlain Herba Fresca or Chanel Cristalle. Good luck 🙂 August 22, 2022 at 10:44am
Brigitte: Eau de Private Collection which is currently the only one Estee Lauder sells in the States (original Private Collection discontinued). It’s a bit less green and more floral but definitely has the DNA of the original. August 22, 2022 at 11:48am
Klaas: Hello there Jody, PC is still very easy to get here in Europe! Has it really been discontinued in the US? That’s just weird!!!
Somehow, Chamade by Guerlain or Scherrer (very cheap on discounters here, such a wonderful fragrance!) remind me of Private Collection. It must be the hyacinth! Synthetic Jungle is another option indeed, but quite pricey……
Good luck! Private Collection is so beautiful it will he hard to replace…… August 29, 2022 at 4:39pm
Irina: Hello Victoria and everyone!
I want to try and perhaps later buy Guerlain Apres l’Ondee, but for some reason this perfume is very hard to find. I have two perfumes by Frederick Malle that were inspired by this Guerlain fragrance: L’eau D’Hiver and En Passant, but want to smell the inspiration itself. Why is it so rare to find? When was the latest version released? I read two Victoria’s articles on Guerlain Apres l’Ondee and I am very moved by them)) August 22, 2022 at 9:45am
Anna: I experienced the same, until I realised that they only sell it in a handful of countries (at least in Europe), and even in France it’s not available everywhere. I ended up finding it in Strasbourg – in Sephora they didn’t have it, but they redirected me towards Lafayette, where I finally found it, but it wasn’t on display and you had to ask for it separetely. However, a simpler, but more commonly available perfume, which gives hints of Après l’Ondée is Insolence (Victoria also had a post on both the EDP and EDT). So you might want to check this, if you have difficulties encountering Après l’Ondée. August 22, 2022 at 10:10am
Judy R: Hello. I wanted to try Apres L’Ondée after reading about it here. I finally found it on a wonderful site
theperfumedcourt.com
I have purchased decants of several hard to find fragrances here, esp. vintage and pre- regulation ( correct term?).
Try it, I just checked, it’s available. August 22, 2022 at 11:36am
Trudy: I experienced the same difficulty in finding Apres L’Ondee. I too finally found samples available on theperfumedcourt.com and ordered a small decant as well as a few other hard to find and vintage fragrances. BTW I think it is as lovely as I’ve always heard although (for me) it is hard to describe. August 22, 2022 at 4:26pm
Cornelia Blimber: Apres LÓndee is easy to find here in the Netherlands. De Bijenkorf, Ici Paris, Parfumerie.nl, Celeste Parfums.
I think you can order it on line. Douglas carries it also. but this moment not available.
You can find it as well at Selfridges.
I hope you will find it, it is divine!
Also in the same mood: L’Heure Bleue (guerlain). August 22, 2022 at 11:42am
Kimberly: Hi Irina, both Harrod’s and the Guerlain/US website have Apres L’Ondee in stock. August 22, 2022 at 12:06pm
Myra: I love it and also discovered Apres l’Ondee due to the review here. I bought my bottle from the Guerlain store in Canada. I noticed it here too: https://www.guerlain.com/ca/en-ca/p/les-legendaires-apres-londee—eau-de-toilette-P014313.html August 23, 2022 at 7:41am
Tami: In all the years I’ve followed Guerlain perfumes, I’ve noticed that finding any but the most classic/popular or new scents (Shalimar, some of the Aqua Allegorias…) can be a tricky affair. One month I can find Eau de Fleurs de Cedrat, Apres L’Ondee, or L’Heure Bleue… the next month, they’re gone, only to resurface more months or years later. Just my experience! I wish it weren’t so. August 23, 2022 at 6:47pm
Kaylen: I really love Ambre Sultan by Serge Lutens — what should I go for next? (I tend to love spicy, “gourmand” scents, and forest ones too. When I’ve tried lighter, more floral ones, I end up feeling disappointed, like they don’t match me, or fade too quickly. That said, I wish I could find something slightly more flirty, while keeping it unique!) August 22, 2022 at 9:48am
AndreaR: Perhaps Ambre Precieux by Maitre Perfumeur et Garnier? August 22, 2022 at 10:26am
Kaylen: Thank you! August 22, 2022 at 10:55am
Charlotte: Tea for Two by L’Artisan Parfumeur: surely the name counts as flirty? 😉 It’s a lovely spicy, warm fragrance that makes me think of gingerbread but stays light and radiant. Very cosy! August 22, 2022 at 12:55pm
OnWingsofSaffron: Chanel Bois des Iles perhaps? It is a fragrance beyond beautiful; the flirtiness, I believe, may be personality thing? August 22, 2022 at 2:41pm
katherine x: Bois des Iles was favorite of my grandmother Ada who lived mostly in Vienna through her early 20s. She loved loved perfumes… It evoked memories of her youth. I use it every once in awhile and think of her. Thanks for the reminder! August 22, 2022 at 11:51pm
katherine x: For a little more context, she lived in Vienna from 1908 through 1930 (and for a brief period in her early 30s – late 1930s – fleeing soon after the Anschluss. August 23, 2022 at 12:01am
OnWingsofSaffron: How very touching!
Living in Cologne as a German, these recollections of family history referring to the Nazi’s reign of terror are always important and always very emotive. Thanks Katherine, for sharing! August 23, 2022 at 9:59am
katherine x: Thank you OnWingsofSaffron! Yes – it’s true – thank you for not shying away. Ada fled with her two children from one place to another – ending up in Colombia, then NY.
All with the help of kind and courageous people – especially the kid’s nanny who scuttled the kids from Hamburg to Vienna – pretending they were hers. She was even questioned on it during the trip. We wish we knew her name so we could thank her family. My grandmother was always so grateful. Thanks for your interest.
I just read Victoria’s piece on Cologne! How timely – seeing you are from there… It sounds like a wonderful city (large but doesn’t feel it!). Take care. August 26, 2022 at 11:06pm
Fleurycat: I second OnWingsofSaffron’s recommendation of Chanel Bois des Iles. Spicy, warm, light and sophisticated, never overpowering. I also prefer spice and woods to floral, but at the same time found many fragrances in that category too heavy, or “masculine”, for lack of a better descriptor. Have you explored any Iris or Orris dominant scents. They are also a nice alternative to classic florals. August 22, 2022 at 3:10pm
Hélène: Hello! I also love Ambre Sultan and warmth in fragrance. For a lighter but still glowy alternative I quite enjoy Hermes L’Ambre des Merveilles. August 22, 2022 at 9:35pm
Shannon: Have you tried others from the Lutens range? I love Ambre Sultan but also really love Five O’Clock Au Gingembre and Fille En Aiguelles. They’re similar in depth I think to Ambre Sultan.
Rather than recommend another amber, I might recommend you look at Comme des Garcon instead, particularly their incense line (I love Kyoto) but also it sounds like you may enjoy Wonderwood.
You might also like Odin 07 Tanoke if you can get a sample! August 22, 2022 at 11:32pm
Shannon: Lubin Idole is another one to check out I think! August 22, 2022 at 11:32pm
Leslie: I own and love Ambra Aurea by Profumum Roma. August 31, 2022 at 11:44pm
Mary: I love Estee Lauder PC Tuberose Gardenia, but finding it a little strong in this hot weather. Would love something similar with more citrus or effervescence, but still the white floral component. Thanks for any recommendations! August 22, 2022 at 10:13am
PrincessTonk: Terracotta Perfume by Guerlain is a wonderful summer fragrance. August 22, 2022 at 11:10am
PrincessTonk: Victoria’s review will give you a fuller description! August 22, 2022 at 11:15am
Nina Z: Hiram Green’s Moon Bloom is a gorgeous tuberose fragrance that is much lighter and more sheer than the usual tuberose perfumes. It’s all natural but does have surprising lasting power. I think it would work very well in hot weather. August 22, 2022 at 12:43pm
Mer: Staying with Estée Lauder, you can try Bronze Goddess. August 22, 2022 at 2:10pm
Guest: Hello! I’m looking for a fresh and youthful green tea fragrance, as the one’s I’ve tried just don’t seem to do it for me.
Armani Privé Thé Yulong is absolutely lovely, but it feels too mature on my skin upon drydown. Dior’s The Cachemire is lighter and suits me much better, but I heard from the sales associate that it is sadly going to be discontinued. And Eau Parfumee au The Vert by Bvlgari is not available where I live, so I won’t be able to try it at all.
Any tips are very welcome, and have a great week 🙂 August 22, 2022 at 10:42am
Aurora: Hello: The simple Roger&Gallet Green Tea is good and in the vein of the Bulgari Green Te August 22, 2022 at 3:24pm
JillS: Hello, everyone. I am looking for a soft sandalwood fragrance. Tam Dao and Samsara are too strong on me. Any ideas? August 22, 2022 at 11:23am
Nina Z: Sandalwood Temple from Sana Jardin is all natural so lighter and less intense than the two you mentioned. August 22, 2022 at 12:45pm
JillS: Thanks, Nina! August 22, 2022 at 12:47pm
Nancy Chan: I second Nina Z recommendation of Sana Jardin’s Sandalwood Temple. August 22, 2022 at 4:30pm
JillS: Thanks, Nancy. August 23, 2022 at 8:34am
JillS: Thank you so much, Nancy August 23, 2022 at 8:36am
Sebastian: Also, Sandalwood Sacré by Le Jardin Retrouvé is a very soft, creamy but fresh sandalwood below aldehydes and a few flowers. It wears lightly, with only moderate sillage. I like it very much. Unfortunately, I’ve used up my sample 🙁 August 23, 2022 at 1:19pm
Klaas: There’s the incredible Santal Massoia from Hermès……soft and chic, but maybe a tad too subtle? Get a sample of you can!
Corps Volatils does a very soft and natural sandalwood as well, it’s calles Revealed Sandalwood I believe……much more affordable than the Hermes! In here, the sweet creaminess of the sandalwood is paired with cardamom. It’s cool, green fruitiness offer a lovely, gourmand touch… August 29, 2022 at 4:51pm
Nina Z: Also, duh, my favorite sandalwood, Bois des Iles from Chanel. It’s softer and more subtle than Tam Dao, and more complex. But it’s more about sandalwood than Samsara with its killer jasmine. August 22, 2022 at 8:55pm
JillS: Trying to decide between the Sana Jardin sample set and Bois des Iles. August 23, 2022 at 8:38am
Nina Z: The Sandalwood Temple is more like Tam Dao, emphasizing the woody side of sandalwood. The Bois des Iles is softer and creamier, with a spicy element (which Victoria describes as being like the aroma of freshly baked ginger bread). I hope that helps you decide. See: https://boisdejasmin.com/2005/09/perfume_review__13.html August 23, 2022 at 11:07pm
JillS: Thanks so much, Nina. I think I will go with Bois des Iles. Victoria’s review is so wonderful! August 24, 2022 at 8:32am
Amanda M: Try Estée Lauder ‘Sensuous’, that has a lovely sandalwood note that is not too overpowering. August 22, 2022 at 10:21pm
JillS: Thanks, Amanda. August 23, 2022 at 7:49am
Rachel: Hello! The only perfume I have ever bought multiply bottles is Eau D’Hadrien. I would love to find something similar but with more depth for day wear, for the fall. I bounce around for night perfumes Shalimar, Musc Ravageur, Lolita Lempicka, Arpege, Must de Cartier. I don’t like too flowery or too sweet scents. Your help is much appreciated! August 22, 2022 at 11:48am
Aurora: Hello Rachel: Maybe Serge Lutens Fleurs de Citronnier would be worth a try, it is sultrier than Ed’H but still lemony or for a very sweet citrus Profumum Roma Dulcis in Fundo. Also Eau de Rochas has a chypre aspect which gives it more body, I wear it into the fall. August 22, 2022 at 1:36pm
Rachel: Thank you! I appreciate your help so much I will try these and hopefully one of these will work! They sound PERFECT! 😊 August 22, 2022 at 2:47pm
Alityke: O de Lancôme May suit & is easily available in the U.K. at least. More sparkly & a bit of chypre still lurks in its depths. It has more throw than Eau d’Hadrien & is more lemony up top August 23, 2022 at 5:47am
Cornelia Blimber: Hi Mary! Maybe Gucci ”Bloom”. August 22, 2022 at 11:48am
Brigitte: Cristalle EDT has been out of stock for two years on the US website and from what I am reading in my research it is discontinued. I am looking for a replacement. Any suggestions? August 22, 2022 at 11:51am
Hamamelis: Hi Brigitte, here in Europe it is still for sale fortunately, on the Chanel website. Replacements could be Ormonde Jayne Tiare, Goutal Eau du Sud, Diorella, Frederic Malle Le Parfum de Therese. Maybe O de Lancome although that seems increasingly hard to find too. August 22, 2022 at 2:32pm
Charlotte: Hi Hamamelis, I also love and am seeking Cristalle EDT – could
you be more specific about which European website you saw it on? It’s sold out on both Chanel UK and Chanel France. Thanks! August 23, 2022 at 6:14pm
Hamamelis: Hi Charlotte, I bought it at the Dutch Chanel website, a fortnight ago. I had a look at it just now for you, unfortunately it is also sold out there…I suspect it is because of the new oakmoss regulations. Did you have a look at ebay? Hopefully Chanel finds a way to reissue Cristalle, it is such a unique scent. August 24, 2022 at 1:14am
Charlotte: Thanks Hamamelis and apologies for the slow reply! I contacted the Chanel US and Canadian customer service lines but they were very vague about whether Cristalle is still being produced and suggested checking Chanel websites everywhere. Quite a task!
I agree it’s a unique and lovely fragrance – hopefully we will see it again soon! September 4, 2022 at 10:01am
Joyti: Hello, and thank you for doing this! I am looking for a scent that says “professional and competent, but helping and warm”. So far, some Chanel scents (no 5 parfum, 31 rue Cambon) have felt right.
Context: I’m starting an agency for survivors & for workplaces around sexual assault & harassment. August 22, 2022 at 12:00pm
Nina Z: I don’t think you can count on any fragrance having the same meaning to all your clients. Who knows what the smell of a certain perfume might trigger for one of them? So maybe you should just wear a tiny amount of any fragrance that makes you feel confident but that doesn’t project much? Maybe extrait rather than EdT? Just a thought based on who you said your clients will be…. August 22, 2022 at 12:50pm
Joyti: Oh, the fragrance is for me – meaning, what will help me feel professional, warm, etc. August 22, 2022 at 2:34pm
Nina Z: Ah, then Chanel is a good way to go because they are typically refined. How about Bois des Iles, which is a soft warm sandalwood or maybe a small amount of Coromandel, which is warm and earthy? I’m going to go out on a limb and suggest exploring resinous fragrances with myrrh or benzoin, which I find warm and comforting. So like PG Indochine for benzoin or PG Myrrhiad for myrrh. Sadly I think some of the old Prada exclusives might be just the thing but they are discontinued and hard to find. August 22, 2022 at 9:04pm
Nina Z: PG = Pierre Guillaume August 22, 2022 at 9:07pm
joyti: Thank you for the suggestions! I really wish Chanel allowed decants so I could sample BdI parfum (it’s been a while since I tried BdI, but I remember liking the parfum much more than the edt). August 22, 2022 at 10:02pm
Aurora: Good luck with your project, have you tried Goutal Heure Exquise? It is less severe than No19 or Guerlain Chamade? August 22, 2022 at 1:41pm
Valentyna: Hi Joyti, what a wonderful idea for an agency like that! Can I join as well? 🙂 Jokes aside, I feel Guerlain L’Heure Bleue has the same warm vibes. As well as Jeux de Peau Lutens. Zoologist Civet is brilliant too. Frederick Malle Fleur de Cassie. Chanel Bois des Iles. Papillon Hera. All the above mentioned perfumes are projecting support, comfort and confidence, they are very well rounded. They’ve got strong backbones without modern white cuddly musks (I believe those are good for relaxation or saying “I’m clean/washed, harmless.” and not quite the same what you want)
Hope this helps. August 22, 2022 at 4:38pm
joyti: @Valntyna – The modern white musk feel screech-y to me. Thank you for the suggestions! I hadn’t thought of Guerlain, and haven’t tried Fleur de Cassie (though I love L’Eau D’Hiver)….
Thank you for the kind comment about the agency! I’ve been helping people around the issues for almost 6 years, and some of those people asked me to expand my work 🙂 August 23, 2022 at 9:09am
Kimberly: Victoria, I’m so glad your blog is back online! Thank you for keeping it up. Last year I read your review on Chanel’s Paris – Deauville. I bought the 4.2 ounce bottle and wore it frequently throughout the summer. Recently, I made a trip to the Chanel store in Dallas, Tx and treated myself to a bottle of Paris – Venise. Since then I have been wearing it almost daily. I think it is one of the prettiest perfumes I have ever smelled. It is very well blended and creates a sheer veil of soft florals atop a base of soft vanilla and musk. The musk note is beautiful. It is not screechy or synthetic. Paris – Venise is blended so beautifully and it is one I could wear all summer long. Although I can smell nuances of other Chanel fragrances in Paris – Venise, it is its own creation. I prefer to wear it in the daytime as it is an EDT and doesn’t have the staying power of an EDP. Chanel’s website lists it as an amber type floral. I don’t smell a lot of amber but it is there and creates a depth to Paris – Venise that I love. August 22, 2022 at 12:01pm
Kim: Hi Everybody:
Fall is coming where I live.
I guess I’ll embrace it since the fight is useless.
Will someone recommend a beautiful fall fragrance that will help me with this transition? I’m open to anything.
P.S. Victoria, I’m also happy to see your blog back online. Hope you are doing well. August 22, 2022 at 12:24pm
AndreaR: In the fall I enjoy wearing Cuir d’Ange by Hermes. (I bought it in the 15 ml size.) August 22, 2022 at 1:53pm
OnWingsofSaffron: Perhaps a Hermès scent: Poivre Samarcande or Agar Ébène? They have this muted yet graceful, slightly grayish fragrance. August 22, 2022 at 2:46pm
OnWingsofSaffron: … oops! Just saw that AndreaR mentioned a Hermès scent before me! So I‘ll substitute the word „a“ for „another“! August 22, 2022 at 2:49pm
Aurora: And more Hermes 😃, I like Elixir des Merveilles in the fall or the sweeter Ambre des Merveilles. August 22, 2022 at 3:01pm
Kimberly: Chanel’s Cuir De Russie comes alive for me in the fall. It is also my favorite time of year to wear my rose perfumes. Malle’s Portrait of A Lady and Guerlain’s Nahema are two I like a lot. I layer them to create my perfect rose fragrance. I recently added Luten’s La Fille De Berlin to my collection and am looking forward to trying it this fall. If you like woody gourmands then Mugler’s Angel and Guerlain’s Mon Guerlain wear well on the cooler days of the fall season. August 22, 2022 at 4:17pm
Karina: My favorite fragrance in fall is Mitsouko. I find the fruity warmth comes out beautifully when the days start getting colder, while the top notes still retain that effervescence. August 23, 2022 at 5:33pm
Kim: Thanks everybody. I’ll try them all! 🙂 August 24, 2022 at 12:17am
Elizabeth: I loved Parfums Delrae’s Mythique. After sampling all her perfumes, I purchased Wit and had been promising myself to purchase a bottle when they closed.
I tried Iris Silver Mist but didn’t love it (this was several years ago). I would love a recommendation for something similar to Mythique. August 22, 2022 at 1:29pm
ScentedKnits: I wore Mythique until my bottle ran dry. Chanel Misia and Masque Milano L’Attesa have something of that feel and are appropriate for the workplace. August 23, 2022 at 12:55pm
Colette: Hello everyone! Can anyone recommend scents that are either almond extract-smelling or jasmine tea-scented? I’ve found almond scents to be mostly powdery. I love the smell of Schmidt’s Jasmine Tea deodorant and would love to have that as a scent as well! Thank you and happy summer to everyone! August 22, 2022 at 2:21pm
Valentyna: Hi Colette, Serge Lutens Rahat Lokoum is ideal almond/marzipan. In fact it’s so good that I decided not to buy it, because it made me feel craving Bakewell tarts all the time, haha! August 22, 2022 at 4:41pm
Alityke: Dior Hypnotic Poison is pure marzipan/vanilla. Should be accessible too.
Aqua du Palma Mandorlo do Sicilia in the blue bottle is all almonds, almost a summer version of the Dior.
Both are drop dead gorgeous August 23, 2022 at 5:59am
Mary: I also adore Schmidts Jasmine deodorant and buy on repeat. I am here for all the jasmine. Hope they never discontinue it. September 18, 2022 at 11:23am
connie hill: I have been crying for years over Moulinard de Moulinard! I even had a friend in Paris try to locate some to no avail. What am I to do? Where to turn for a substitute scent!?
Connie August 22, 2022 at 3:53pm
Aurora: Hello Connie: You could save a search on eBay, it might pop up sometime, also I see that on Fragrantica that Molinard de Molinard is compared to Hermes Calèche. August 23, 2022 at 3:41am
Aurora: Just checked the Molinard website in Grasse and it’s available there, now the question is will they ship abroad. August 23, 2022 at 3:49am
Ann: Yes, I think you should not have trouble finding this on eBay or Etsy, or perhaps some of the fragrance swapping pages on Facebook. August 23, 2022 at 2:39pm
Anna: Hi all. I’m looking for a work-appropriate scent with just a tiny bit of opulence or skankiness. I am a (female) lawyer so it should be low-sillage and lightweight, but I like the idea of an interesting scent with the suit. I like En Passant but it’s only a springtime scent for me. I love Carnal Flower, and I also really enjoy Tauer’s Desert Marocain. However, these are way too strong for work use. I’m not usually a big citrus fan but who knows? Thanks! August 22, 2022 at 5:32pm
Aurora: Hi Anna: What about a light leather for something a little animalic. Kelly Calèche (try the edt and edp), my favorite Bottega Veneta too.
Guerlain Jicky might also be an option with its civet drydown, you have to like lavender for Jicky, try the edt, the edp and the extrait, more expensive but it wears close to the skin and might be the ideal concentration. Otherwise, a vegetal musk like Goutal Musc Nomade or Chanel No 18 might suit too. Also Dior Homme Parfum has a beautiful leather note. Hope you will get more answers. August 23, 2022 at 4:45am
Aurora: Like Sebastian, an afterthought, Andrea mentioned Hermes Cuir d’Ange answering another question and that’s another lovely leather, very smooth, although it may lack some oomph and longevity is not the best. August 23, 2022 at 5:04pm
Klaas: Cuir d’Ange would be absolutely perfect! Chic, discreet, soft a a kittens paw but oh, that wicked touch of skank! One of my absolute favorite fragrances! August 29, 2022 at 4:58pm
Hamamelis: Hi Anna, you could try Dusita’s Fleur de Lalita. Claire wrote this on her blog Take one thing Off: Fleur de Lalita is a ladylike endeavor and will only reveal her undergarments when you insist on looking. August 23, 2022 at 5:52am
Sebastian: I believe you’re looking for a slightly animalic chypre (or fougere) in extrait concentration. That’s not necessarily lightweight, but extrait judiciously applied will not overpower anyone in the vicinity.
Jicky has been mentioned. But if you live in the US and want something even more unusual and precious, you might try Casablanca by St. Clair Scents. It is truly one of the most beautiful perfumes I have ever smelled, and I regret extremely the fact that they don’t ship overseas. August 23, 2022 at 1:28pm
Sebastian: Just an afterthought: Somebody mentioned Kelly Calèche, but for a lawyer the more classical and less playful original Calèche might be better than the flanker.
And Esther Lauder Azuree comes to mind. Great non-animalic leather chypre.
If these are all too strong, then Cuir de Russie from Le Jardin Retrouvé might be an option. A perfectly balanced, light, unobtrusive, elegant leather scent in a modern vein, suited for daily wear. In fact, besides the timeless classic Jicky, that may well be the best fit. August 23, 2022 at 4:50pm
Anna: Thank you all so much for your suggestions! I will definitely sample them. August 27, 2022 at 7:25am
Alexandra: Does anyone have recommendations for perfume shops in Lisbon? Thank you! August 22, 2022 at 8:02pm
Karina: You should try Claus Porto – more shower and body than perfume, but very nice. August 23, 2022 at 5:36pm
Alexandra: Thanks, Karina! I will look for Claus Porto. August 27, 2022 at 12:57pm
Trudy: Ive been trying to find a warm and intimate new fragrance. This would be a shift for me as I have always gravitated toward floral or somewhat fresh notes. I usually don’t care for anything too heavy or too vintage. Ive been wearing SL A La Nuit, TF Neroli Portofino, Chanel Beige and Paris-Riviera or anything gardenia but now I need a change. Maybe something with a hint of vanilla? Musky? Woody? Kind of sensual but not in your face. A tall order I know but any suggestion would be nice. I love this site and all the beautiful comments. August 22, 2022 at 10:38pm
Dohotay: Lost Alice by Masque Milano might suit you. August 23, 2022 at 2:02am
Trudy: thank you, I will check it out! August 23, 2022 at 11:32am
Hamamelis: I have two suggestions. Papillon’s Bengal Rouge, or maybe a bit of an odd one but it fits ‘kind of sensual but not in your face’ is La Via del Profumo Tasneem. The latter is offered in 15 ml and not very expensive. August 23, 2022 at 6:08am
Trudy: thank you for the suggestions I will track these down! August 23, 2022 at 11:33am
Sebastian: I friend has recently bought Athalia by Parfums de Marly. On her, it’s a serious scent, with restrained incensy vanilla, a bit of orange zest, powdery iris, sitting on a bed of warm musks and cozy amber. A hint of vintage but not heavy. Lovely. August 24, 2022 at 2:59am
AnnieA: @Trudy, this might be a bit random but I find Francesca Bianchi’s “Under My Skin” on the subtle-but-sensual side. August 29, 2022 at 3:27pm
Julie Spence: Thanks for the comments. I am loving DYLAN BLUE for women by VERSACE and love it. The notes are so complex with an over all magnolia note. Would you please recommend a similar
scent to try. Julie. August 23, 2022 at 12:38am
Aurora: Hi Julie: Do you know the Fragrances of the World site? It has the feature Match My Fragrance. It can be a bit hit it miss but Dylan Blue results are:
Lanvin Eclat d’Arpège mon Eclat, Nina Ricci Nina Fleur, Burberry Her eau de toilette, Molton Brown Delicious Rhubarb and Rose. Sometimes the results change, not sure why.
Frederic Malle, more expensive, Eau de Magnolia is a very pretty floral although not a true magnolia but it’s a difficult flower to reproduce. Hope this will help you a little bit. August 23, 2022 at 3:26pm
Myra: Working from home now, I haven’t worn fragrance very often but I’m kind of longing to get back into it for the fall. Prada Infusion d’Iris was my first signature scent. Any other lovers if it? My bottle had gotten clogged up and I tried running it under warm water – any other tips to unclog it before I just get myself a new bottle? About a third or less remains. August 23, 2022 at 7:47am
Aurora: Not sure but if it’s the sprayer use a needle to unplug it. Enjoy your renewed interest in perfume. August 23, 2022 at 2:36pm
Sebastian: And if it really stays clogged, just get the entire sprayer off forcibly, e. g. using pincers, and pour the rest of the perfume into a new spray bottle. Why should you waste a third of it? August 23, 2022 at 5:09pm
Myra: Appreciate the advice, thank you both! August 23, 2022 at 7:02pm
ShirlTheGirl: I LOVE the 20 year+ version of “Mille et une Rose” by Lancome. I still have a half bottle preserved in a dark wine cooler refrigerator. My favorite of all time. Lancome has put out a new version. I LOVE that also. Bought 3 bottles. August 23, 2022 at 9:59am
Ewan: Someone gave me a small bottle of ‘ Scafa of Scotland ‘ from a flea-market in Den Haag.
It has an underlying aroma of the skin of a cucumber , freshly-peeled; quite refreshing. August 24, 2022 at 1:38am
Andrew: I have been searching for two fragrances lately.
First, I’m looking for a masculine rose (that doesn’t break the bank). So far I’ve tried Ormonde Jayne Ta’if, Diptyque Eau Capitale, Le Labo Rose 31, Andy Tauer’s L’air du Desert Marocain, and some Frederic Malle’s. The first three seem best for me. (I also tried Atelier Cologne’s Rose Anonyme and fell in love with it, but the sample eventually turned on me and the rose was smothered by patchouli. Same goes with the other Ateliers samples I have-did anyone else have this problem?) However, I’m open to other suggestions to those who have any.
Second, I’d love to find a good sandalwood. Le Labo’s Santal 33 is okay as is Diptyque’s Tam Dao, but something about them seems lackluster now. (I know Tam Dao was reformulated and thus may not be as captivating as it once was.) Years ago I really liked The Art of Shaving’s Sandalwood (not to be confused with the line’s current Sandalwood & Cypress). TAOS still has the original Sandalwood shaving products, but I prefer to use a sprayable fragrance. Does anyone have any ideas?
Many thanks! August 24, 2022 at 9:27am
Aurora: Hi Andrew: Maybe try Amouage Lyric, the two versions for men and women. You could also check Serge Lutens, Sa Majesté la Rose, Santal Majuscule even La Fille de Berlin. Also Etat Libre d’Orange Eau de Protection.
There was a question about sandalwood earlier, check the thread above. August 24, 2022 at 2:00pm
OnWingsofSaffron: Victoria wrote a post on roses for men. As always highly recommended:
https://boisdejasmin.com/note/rose
If I may add a recommendation: if you want something really masculine, you might look into the rose-oud pairing? Say Dior‘s „Oud Ispahan“ (here too, Victoria has a post). August 24, 2022 at 3:56pm
Amanda M: Hi Andrew,
A fantastic sandalwood that you must try is Geo F.Trumper Sandalwood. As a sandalwood fan myself, I absolutely love it! It’s marketed for men, but it’s definitely a unisex fragrance.
Top notes are Lemon, Spicy Notes, Lavender, Bergamot and Clary Sage; middle notes are Geranium, Rose, Jasmine and Carnation; base notes are Sandalwood, Vanilla, Amber, Patchouli and Leather. August 24, 2022 at 7:23pm
Irem: Hi Andrew, I have very recently tried Frederic Malle Promise by Dominique Ropion, and once the top notes subdued, it was “the rose for a man” – at least to my nose. It’s only fault is that it breaks the bank (sorry!). Also, I know you have mentioned FM in your list, hope this is not duplicate. Before trying Promise, I thought as Le Cri by Parfum d’Empire as a rose for a man. And it still stands, I guess. August 24, 2022 at 9:09pm
Klaas: Hey Andrew, Santal Massoia by Hermes is a gorgeous sandalwood! So in Corps Volatils Revealed Sandalwood.
Portrait of a Lady and Nahema are gorgeous roses and much appreciated by men as well……Guerlain has been doing a much better job with reformulating their classics lately……. Rose Ikebana by Hermes is much more subtle and more unisex. August 29, 2022 at 5:03pm
Tami: I’ve had Atelier Colognes turn very sandalwood-y on me! I love the initial citrusy blast of Orange Sanguine and California Clementine, but they resolve into something woody/powdery on me very quickly.
If you haven’t tried out the (not so) “new”
Tom Ford Private Blend Roses, you may like those. (I personally didn’t care for Rose Prick—that one was too un-rosy on me. But your mileage may vary.) They are pricy but if you enjoy scents, they’re worth investigating. September 2, 2022 at 11:12am
Jayne: I’d spend all day on this blog if I could.
What a gift to perfumeiphiles of all ages. That’s not a word, just some “poetic license.” August 24, 2022 at 8:11pm
Victoria: Thank you so much, Jayne. August 25, 2022 at 6:22am
Daphne: I’m looking for a good daily perfume. I work from home, and have been enjoying Jo Malone’s Orange Blossom, although it does not last (even layering it with the lotion). I like all kinds of things; not sure I want to stick with orange blossom note. Thinking of going back to Ambre Sultan — I like warm spices but would like something softer for daytime. I’ve seen Chanel Bois de Iles mentioned here several times; unsure if I can sample this anywhere? August 25, 2022 at 11:52am
OnWingsofSaffron: I suppose it depends on where you live! Is there a Chanel boutique around or a perfumery which stocks the Les Exclusif range? Otherwise you might have to order a sample online.
I mentioned Bois des Iles. However, I wouldn’t categorize it as an everyday workhorse. It is plush, absolutely beautiful, very special—and very expensive. That’s not to say you could if you wanted to!
From a completely different angle: I like the Sana Jardin perfumes which are explicitly meant to be mix and matched. Berber Blonde, Savage Jasmin, Sandelwood Temple, and especially the rosewater scent of Incense Water are rather lovely! The layering aspect is fun and that makes them versatile. August 27, 2022 at 2:27am
Mary: I have found myself dreaming of the long lost original 1980s Tova. I feel that I have search anywhere for a scent that leave the same long lasting smile. I had so many people that would compliment me on how wonderful I smelled. I would love to find a fragrance that could bring all that back to me. Suggestions? August 31, 2022 at 1:36pm