Merry Christmas! Warm wishes to you this holiday season.
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!
As a gesture of gratitude to everyone who helped our community with their quests and wishlists, I would like to offer you a giveaway. Everyone who will participate in this thread will be entered into a draw for one set of vintage and niche samples from my collection. The set includes 20 fragrances from the classical houses like Guerlain, Chanel, Caron as well as niche staples like Serge Lutens and L’Artisan. I made several of these sets for gifts this year, and I decided to offer one to you.
If you don’t wish to be entered into the giveaway, please note so in the comments. The contest is now closed, but please continue to comment and help others with their searches.
The winner is Marianella. Congratulations! I will contact the winner via email shortly.
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
163 Comments
Diana: Good day bois de Jasmin; Merry Christmas, Buon Natale. I love Bvgari’s beautiful Au The Vert and wonder if there is a perfume similar with a little more depth? I love violet and jasmine together. Thanks for your thoughts on this and I wish to all a fragrant day of peace and love! I’ll return later tonight! -Diana December 25, 2023 at 9:45am
Shirley: Oh my goodness! What a coincidence! I love Jasmine too and just posted at the same time as you! Also sharing my new love Jasmine! ❤️ December 25, 2023 at 9:49am
Cathy Beshore: Heather, I blind purchased a bottle of Prada Oeillet a few months ago, and I love it! Carnation is such a lovely fragrance!❤❤ December 25, 2023 at 6:08pm
Diana: Dear Victoria- I’m excluding myself from the giveaway (omg 🌹🍒) also I am enjoying the thread as usual ✌🏼💕 December 25, 2023 at 11:41am
Fazal Cheema: Merry Christmas Victoria and everyone. Diana, like you I also love Au the Verty and there have been flankers of Au Vert line, too and some are good but none of them really honored the spirit of the original until I smelled Au the Bleu. Out of all the flankers (I own all of them), I think only Au the Bleu honors the spirit of the original and you can tell it is a proper flanker. I am not counting Au the Vert Extreme because it may be a flanker but the name makes it clear it is just a more intense version of the same rather than an entirely different composition.
P.S. Don’t enter me in the giveaway as I do have fragrances from almost every brand in the sample set. December 26, 2023 at 4:46pm
Shirley: Hello! I just wanted to pop in and share a scent I’m currently loving at the moment. Jasmine Tea by One Day. It’s also a new discovery for me! I love Rose scents and tea scents. And oh I do love a good jasmine. This jasmine & tea scent is stunning and so perfect. It’s soft, floral, and has a touch of tea. So nostalgic for me of slow mornings having tea with my mom in her garden when her Jasmine is in bloom. If anyone loves jasmine and tea try this!!! Highly recommend.
Happy Holidays everyone!
xo December 25, 2023 at 9:47am
Diana: Thanks Shirley I will! December 25, 2023 at 11:42am
Lee: Jasmine and tea sounds gorgeous, two of my favorite scents! December 25, 2023 at 2:15pm
Heidi Czerwiec: I would love a perfume with a strong saffron note! It’s kind of my holy grail. I like Safran Troublant, but it just goes *poof* on my skin and disappears too quickly. December 25, 2023 at 9:47am
Silke: ‘Vaara’ of Penhaligon’s has a clearly discernible saffron note – and in a quite unusual combination with fresh (!) roses and quince.
Merry Christmas! December 25, 2023 at 11:45am
Jessica Murphy: Maybe Grossmith Saffron Rose? It’s a deep saffron rose, spicy oud that may be what you’re looking for December 25, 2023 at 12:15pm
Sylvia Long: Have you tried Cimabue by DSH perfumes? I find it saffron, cinnamon and vanilla in me! Happy Holidays and good luck! December 25, 2023 at 12:24pm
Nina Z: I second Cimabue! It is beautiful with a prominent saffron note. December 25, 2023 at 1:37pm
Alessandra: Hello Heidi and Merry Christmas!! Try Matière Première’s Crystal Saffron, it’s the closest to pure saffron you can get. If not, Baccarat Rouge does have a good dose of saffron, intelligently balanced with rose and, I think, jasmine. I love Safran Troublant, such a shame that it has been discontinued. Let us know how the quest goes! December 25, 2023 at 12:38pm
Hamamelis: Hi Heidi, my reply ended up a bit lower in the comments hope it gives some more helpful suggestions. December 25, 2023 at 12:46pm
Simone W: Forgot to add – for saffron in the opening – have you tried Theo Fennel Scent? December 25, 2023 at 3:28pm
Cybele: Try also Mystic Sunset by Eau d’Italie. It’s a wonderful fragrance. December 26, 2023 at 11:31am
Fazal Cheema: gosh, I have safran troublant, too and enjoy it and have the same complaint as you about its dismal longevity. December 26, 2023 at 4:48pm
Sebastian: I remember El Attarine (Serge Lutens) as having a prominent saffron note, while being quite gourmand (apricots). December 27, 2023 at 3:08pm
Jane: Please consider Byzantium Saffron from Merchant of Venice. I rarely see it mentioned, but it’s a beautiful, long lasting perfume in a beautiful Murano bottle, and can be found at a reasonable price. It’s one of the few perfumes that I wear that people stop me to ask my fragrance. December 28, 2023 at 9:19am
Colleen Geary: Happy Holidays!!
I have discovered Oud Immortel by Byredo and quite enjoy it. December 25, 2023 at 10:06am
Maria: Happy Holidays everyone!
I have a bit of an odd question: Which do you think would be a better reference for the scent of sandalwood: Modern Mysore Sandal Soap or vintage Chanel Egoiste?
Modern Mysore Sandal Soap sounds like the most obvious choice for a reference scent, but vintage Egoiste might have better quality sandalwood. Mysore Sandal Soap also uses non-Indian sandalwood, while vintage Egoiste might have actually used Mysore sandalwood, although it was much harder to obtain by then.
All these little details might actually make a big difference, so I would appreciate your opinions. Thanks for reading! December 25, 2023 at 10:25am
Abby: My thought is that those two are very different interpretations of the use of sandalwood.
The soap may not use Indian sandalwood, but it is made for an Indian/Eastern market,and caters to that audience. Yes, they do export a version of it, but it remains an Indian product.
The Egoiste, (or Samsara and Tam Dao)are made for a Western market, and reflect Western tastes. Even though they probably arei/were sold in India or other parts of Asia.
I think you could have them both – the soap now, and the perfume when you can find it. Also, I see no reason to stop with those two as points of reference for sandalwood. There are many more sandalwood dominant perfumes out there. The one you like best is probably the best reference of all. It’s a matter of personal taste, not someone else’s. December 25, 2023 at 12:30pm
KP: As a big lover of vintage Egoiste and the Cologne Concentree version, I have faith in the anecdotes of attesting to quality and genuine Mysore Sandalwood used in its composition. However, as Egoiste is so beautifully blended with Rosewood, spices and rose, mandarin and tobacco, the modern sandalwood soap (even if not derived from Mysore) may convey a more distinct, singular sandalwood impression. You may want to also try Hawaiian Sandalwood – it’s quite lovely. This is a reputable maker (which I have no affiliation with): https://hananaia.com/collections/royal-hawaiian-sandalwood
And some a great resource about Sandalwood essential oil from Eden Botanicals:https://www.edenbotanicals.com/sandalwood-essential-oil.html
(Also, no affiliation.) December 25, 2023 at 1:06pm
nozknoz: This sandalwood from Ensar Oud is marvelous, and the sample would be plenty to enjoy and keep as a reference. (Seal the vial with Parafilm to ensure it doesn’t evaporate over time.)
https://www.ensaroud.com/product/santal-royale/
I haven’t ordered sandalwood from Eden Botanicals so far, but I’ve been happy with other things from them. December 26, 2023 at 11:58am
John Luna: Hi Maria,
What a delightful quest… I’m always amazed at the varied iterations of lavender (one of my favourite materials) and love comparing them. Have you tried George F. Trumper’s Sandalwood Cologne? It is constantly compared to Ègoïste but is missing the latter’s tobacco note.
Have fun! December 29, 2023 at 11:29pm
JillS: Hello, everyone. I’m looking for a repacement for Theorema. Any suggestions? Happy Holidays! December 25, 2023 at 10:28am
April: I loved all those early Fendi perfumes. I still have a bit of an old bottle of the original Fendi. Theorema was wonderful !
I’d like to hear about this as well. Still have a bit of Fendi Asja left- I’ve been wearing it- perfect for this time of year December 25, 2023 at 10:36am
Nina Z: What about Hermes Ambre Narguile? It’s in the same ballpark as Theorema, I think. December 25, 2023 at 3:04pm
JillS: Thanks, Nina and April. I’ll give those a try December 27, 2023 at 1:21pm
Alityke: Wishing Victoria & all BdJ readers a happy holiday season & peace to all in 2024!
I’m currently wearing the marzipan & cyanide of Dior Hypnotic Poison. Is there anything out there with a similar vibe but less shouty? December 25, 2023 at 10:36am
Ellie: I really love almond and marzipan notes and I very much enjoy Acqua di Parma Mandorlo di Sicilia. It is light and warm with a gentle marzipan note and a little greenness given by star anise and mandarin,. Slightly floral, lightly goirmand.I like the fact that it’s never overpowering and you can’t really over spray. It clings beautifully to fabric and smells wonderful for days. December 25, 2023 at 5:44pm
Heather W: I used to grow old-style carnations and have become obsessed with finding a carnation soliflore that smells like that; spicy, vanilla-sweet, some underlying green notes. I love vintage Opium but now I want the pure flower. Already tried Bellodgia edt (just clove oil,) Oeillet Bengale (great spices, lacks the vanillic component,) Etro Dianthus (nice, lacks the whole sweet side,) and Boudoir (lots of raunch, not so much carnation.) If anyone can help out or point me toward a perfumer who does good soliflores, I’d appreciate it. Thanks! December 25, 2023 at 10:51am
Debby: I love them too, hard to get hold of and will be increasingly so with the IFRA bans on eugenol content. My wish list carnation is Villoresi’s Garofano, it’s beautifully warm and spicy, but might be lacking the greenness you’re after. December 25, 2023 at 12:08pm
Heather W: Thanks! I got a sample of the newer formulation of the Villoresi, which unfortunately was very soapy on me, although from what I read that isn’t,ost people’s experience. I’ve never smelled the vintage. I hope you get to try it soon. December 25, 2023 at 12:18pm
Debby: Oh no, I didn’t realise it had been reformulated, I’ve got a tiny decant, don’t know its age. I was hoping to buy a full bottle soon, was put off by the massive bottle, though. Soapy things are really magnified for me, I think I’d better try it again in a newer formulation. The Etro was soapy on me, that’s why I never got that one! December 25, 2023 at 1:31pm
Nina Z: Oriza L. Legrand has two different carnation fragrances, Royal Oeillet and Oeillet Louis XV, with the first being powdery and the second being woody. Their Oeillet soap is divine.
I will add more ideas later, but Oeillet means carnation in French and Garofano means carnation in Italian so that can help you recognize a soloflore. December 25, 2023 at 12:10pm
Jessica: Merry Christmas!
Maybe Grossmith Saffron Rose? It’s a deep
saffron rose, spicy oud that may be what you’re looking for. December 25, 2023 at 12:17pm
Heather W: I haven’t tried the Legrands. That soap sounds luscious. Thanks for the suggestion. December 25, 2023 at 12:20pm
Deanna: Santa Maria Novella Garofano – from 1828
Essential carnation!
Also if you can get Roger and Gallet carnation soap, I’d recommend that. The vintage soaps are available on eBay, it’s a treat to use these soaps, they are strongly perfumed, and great for individual notes.
I’ve been learning more about individual notes in Victorias wonderful classes which are running at present, we are not doing carnation, though I’d love to explore that family! Hint Victoria! December 25, 2023 at 12:38pm
Sylvia Long: Following your thread because I’d love to find a carnation that smells of real flowers. Happy Holidays! December 25, 2023 at 12:50pm
Abby: You could try Beaute du Diable by Liquides Imaginaires. It’s not a soliflore by any means, but the carnation there is huge. I love it for that big carnation. There’s also Floris’ Malmaison, if you can find it. December 25, 2023 at 12:54pm
Nina Z: Dawn Spencer Hurwitz (DSH Perfumes) loves carnations in general and also has lots of different solifores. My favorite carnation of hers is a green carnation called Fleuriste. She also has a spicy one with a more ambery base called Oeillet Rouge. And there is an homage to Malmaison as well. You can order samples from her website. December 25, 2023 at 1:34pm
Nina Z: My favorite carnation solifore is the discontinued Prada No 2 Oeillet. It is sometimes possible to buy that on eBay. The new Prada Infusion d’Oeillet isn’t as good but I do think it’s very nice so worth checking that out because it’s easily available December 25, 2023 at 2:10pm
Simone Whiting: Happy Holidays all.
Heather – I want to recommend Blue Grass Elizabeth Arden for it’s beautiful carnation note. It’s not a soliflore & I do find it difficult to wear but love to spray it on my sofa.
It really captures the evolution of a summer’s day for me, with the sun warming the garden & a sweet earthy heat retained even when the temperature finally cools at dusk. It’s inexpensive & the base notes are homely & last ages. It’s coming home tired & happy & feeling nostalgic about the passing of time that summer can bring.
Really enjoying LouLou Cacherel & Volupte Oscar de la Renta this December. I find both sweet, comforting & a little strange. December 25, 2023 at 3:22pm
Theresa: Love your shout out for Blue Grass! It was my sister’s favorite, and when she learned it was to be discontinued (in the 90’s) she bought many bottles. It was more than a lifetime’s worth, as she died tragically young. I now have those bottles, which remind me of her. I love the scent but it is very strong so don’t put it on very often. December 28, 2023 at 1:23pm
Gretchen: I’m late to the recommendation party but for carnation, you may want to try Angelos Creations Olfactives L’oelliet. His fragrances are incredible and the soliflores are really special! December 25, 2023 at 11:07pm
Diana: Hello Heather, I second Abby’s DSH perfume suggestions. I have sampled Oeillets Rouges & L’Opera des Rouges et des Roses – both so beautiful! DSH has nice 5ml samples which I require if I’m going to get a sense of a perfume’s character; Heather if you find your lovely carnation let us know! December 26, 2023 at 8:06am
Leslie Foldy: Prada Infusion de Oeillet (carnation) is lovely and very long-lasting, at least on me. December 26, 2023 at 10:44am
Notturno7: Hi Heather,
Vintage pure perfume Bellodgia can be found on eBay with a good price tag sometimes. I love the carnation note, it’s one of my favorites.
Please, let us know what you find. December 27, 2023 at 5:17am
Cristina Mariani: Apres l’Ondee. Carnation and Iris mixed to perfection December 27, 2023 at 3:27pm
Sebastian: I second the DSH Fleuriste recommendation, Oeillets Rouges in contrast smelled like cookie dough on me.
I can’t believe what you said about Bellodgia! I know the EdT and Cologne from the 50s and loved the carnation. I also know the EdT from the 60s, this being creamier, more clovey and a little less complex, but still…
Talking of classics, you didn’t mention L’Heure Bleue. Carnation underlaid with vanilla (or, in the case of vintage, more benzoin) and so heartbreakingly beautiful. I recommend the extrait.
Then there’s Vivacious (Hiram Green). It’s half violet, half carnation to me. (But I have heard others complain it’s almost all violet.)
Unfortunately, none of these are really soliflores. I’d be interested to hear of your choice, please come back and tell us! December 27, 2023 at 3:35pm
Deborah Anne Oney: Perhaps these perfumes are the polar opposite for this time of year, but a certain perfume will hit you when it does, paying scant attention to the weather. Aqua Allegoria Orange Soleia/ Guerlain, and Serge Lutens’ Fleurs d’Oranger have both lifted me up and taken over my soul, and here at Christmas time and the Solstice, there is nothing else that calls. They are both worn at the same time- the Guerlain at the throat, and Serge Luten at the wrists. Sometimes mixed together. It is passing odd, but there it is. Very refreshing and delightful! Happy Holidays to all of you . . . I really appreciate your thoughts and knowledge of scent. And the Rooster House was absolutely wonderful!!! December 25, 2023 at 10:54am
Kathy: How lovely that you found a combination to bring extra cheer to Christmas, and that you shared your secret! It is so true that the weather in, and the moods of, the seasons can change one’s perception of a fragrance. December 26, 2023 at 6:45am
joyti: Happy holidays and happy new year!
I’d love to find something that’s similar in spirit…not so much the top of lipstick-like rose-violet but the later scent that shows up…of Guerlain’s Attrape Couer….the dark iris-violet-rose, the creamy sandalwood, the sophisticated amber… December 25, 2023 at 11:00am
nozknoz: This is a difficult one, because Attrape Couer is Guerlain and such subtle perfection. Most of the perfumes I can think of to recommend are also discontinued. Why not explore other perfumes composed by Mathilde Laurent?
I’m also thinking that Histoires de Parfums 1969 and By Kilian Liaisons Dangereuses would be worth trying. December 26, 2023 at 7:15pm
Notturno7: Hi Joyti, I enjoy Hermes Violette Volynka. It’s violette w a beautiful leather note. Victoria mentioned it best perfumes on 2022 post.
Here’s the link
I also liked Chanel Misia but that one is more austere on me.
I like Caron Aimez- Moi, it’s by Dominique Ropion and it’s a spicy violet.
I’ll put that review link here for you.
Hope you find your violet!😁🙌
https://boisdejasmin.com/2022/12/best-perfumes-of-2022.html
https://boisdejasmin.com/2005/06/naimez_que_moi_.html December 27, 2023 at 5:12am
Notturno7: Hi Joyti,
I forgot to mention Caron Farnesiana. I love the complexity of vintage Caron perfumes. I get them on eBay from trusted sellers.
If you like violet / mimosa / incense combination, you might like this.
https://boisdejasmin.com/2011/03/caron-farnesiana-fragrance-review.html December 27, 2023 at 5:21am
Sylvia: Happy holidays and best wishes to you all!
I’m looking for a new vanilla cozywinter scent.
I’ve been reading reviews and came
Across the review for Vanilla Powder. Does anyone have experience with it?
I love the dry-down of L’Ambre Des Merevilles. It’s cozy a vanilla amber with a lovely resiny – maybe benzoine? end, but not too sweet. But- I barely tolerate the ambergris of the first hour. I like vanillas that are cozy but don’t have ambergris, tobacco, or smell of an Angel: patchouli knock off.
I’ve tried Serge Lutens Vanilla- it was ok but not a cozy dry down.
Things not necessarily vanilla but I wear:
I love Lutens Santal Majascule (very cozy dry down and a little seeet and lovely) and Diptique
Tam Dao. Thanks so much! December 25, 2023 at 11:24am
Diana: Hmm check out Essential Parfums Divine Vanille 10ml 22.$ It’s new to me and I do like it – good luck Sylvia December 25, 2023 at 11:51am
Sylvia Long: Thanks Diana- I appreciate the recommendation! Best wishes and happy holidays to you and yours! December 25, 2023 at 12:51pm
Nina Z: Vanilla Nomad from Sana Jardin is an all natural vanilla perfume that has a lot of benzoin in it, and it is very cozy and a little earthy. The dry down is mostly benzoin December 25, 2023 at 3:09pm
Aurora: Hi Sylvia: Here are two of my favorite vanillas, I Profumi Di Firenze Vaniglia del Madagascar is a very creamy vanilla that I find cozy. Very different is Franck Boclet Vanille, a citrus vanilla resembling the very good too but too expensive for what it is Profumum Roma Dulcis in Fundo.
Happy holidays too. December 25, 2023 at 4:55pm
Alison: An excellent creamy vanilla perfume to try is Vanagloria created by Dominique Ropion for Laboratorio Olfattivo. (He is well known for Portrait of a Lady and Carnal Flower created for Frederic Malle). Vanagloria is complex, initially almond and tonka bean but then dries down to a dry leathery vanilla. Really gorgeous for autumn and winter…. December 26, 2023 at 6:31am
johaboha: I bought myself a bottle of Prada infusion de vanilla for the winter seasons – it is a soapy and slightly smokey vanilla with a bit of aromatic and green touches (probably the angelica).I enjoy it a lot and wear it almost daily because it is such an was and comforting reach! December 28, 2023 at 12:58pm
Hamamelis: Hi Heidi, Neela Vermeire’s Trayee has a beautiful saffron note. It has excellent longevity. If you can find the travelspray, they go by two, it won’t break the bank.
A very different fragrance wit a lovely saffron dry down is Hermes Eau de Neroli Doré. December 25, 2023 at 11:27am
Meg: I am enjoying Amouage Gold, a gift from my husband as a momento of our trip to the middle east for COP 28. I’ve never work a scent like this before.The complexity of the experience lasts for hours and it’s almost like I’m changing perfumes throughout the day. I read that it is compared to Chanel 5, but I don’t think it bears much resemblence at all. I like it’s complexity and recommend it for evening, but am wearing a tiny bit during the daytime at home. It opens extremely big with roses and aldyhydes and dries down to a cozy mix of cedar, sandalwood and ambergris. I’d love to know of another perfume like this that is not quite so big, or as expensive. December 25, 2023 at 12:03pm
Aurora: Hello Meg, you might try Amouage Dia which is like more muted, I almost like it better than Gold for its versatility but I realize you want something less expensive, have you tried Guerlain Liu EDP? It’s lovely toobwith aldehydes and considered the Guerlain No 5 and more affordable than Amouage.
Happy holidays. December 25, 2023 at 5:04pm
Karina: You could try “First” by Van Cleef & Arpels or “Faubourg 24” by Hermes. I think of both of those as in the same category as Chanel 5 and Amouage Gold. I think First is also one of the most kind-hearted scents around – like wearing a hug of sorts. Don’t let that detract you from trying it, though. December 28, 2023 at 11:18am
Jessica: Merry Christmas!
Maybe Grossmith Saffron Rose? It’s a deep
saffron rose, spicy oud that may be what you’re looking for. December 25, 2023 at 12:18pm
Nina: Hello! Merry Christmas!!
I am a big fan of ‘Le Lion’ from Chanel’s Les Exclusive range. I especially love the leathery tones and the ladandum, I also love its longevity. Sadly it’s pricey, so I am looking for something similar, any recommendations would be gratefully appreciated! December 25, 2023 at 12:50pm
Alityke: Try Guerlain Shalimar in all its incarnations & flankers is the obvious one.
I would also say Papillon Salome & Bengale Rouge. No less expensive than Le Lion but very beautiful. December 25, 2023 at 2:39pm
Nina: Thanks for your recommendations, I’ll check them out! December 25, 2023 at 3:33pm
Sanaz Farhangi: Hi everyone and happy holidays. I am looking for a fragrance that evokes a snowy day. December 25, 2023 at 1:18pm
Alityke: 4160Tuesday Doe in the Snow. Grab it while you can.
If you can access their ledger Ffern Winter 2023 is snowy roses December 25, 2023 at 2:41pm
Sanaz Farhangi: Thanks! The name is a bit strange but I am excited to try. December 25, 2023 at 3:56pm
Nina Z: There are probably many different types of smells that evoke a snowy day, but the first think I thought of was Teint De Neige, which means the color of snow, from Lorenzo Villoresi. It is a very soft powdery fragrance that I find quite delightful. But that might not be what you had in your mind. December 25, 2023 at 5:31pm
Fazal Cheema: I agree with Nina that different people may have different idea of what a snowy smell should be like. A fragrance I would recommend is probably Diptique Fleur de Peau or may be something from Serge Lutens ‘Eau’ line as their notes make it seem like they have a cold, ethereal feel though I admit I have smelled none of the releases in the ‘Eau’ line of Serge Lutens. Or their might be one among Comme des Garcons experimental releases. December 26, 2023 at 4:51pm
Nina Z: This comment reminded me of Frédéric Malle’s L’Eau D’Hiver, which is a soft and cool fragrance. I believe the name means Winter Water. Regardless it does remind me of the coolness of winter. December 26, 2023 at 11:10pm
Adam: I’ve recently discovered a couple old scents from Geoffrey Beene that aren’t the ubiquitous Grey Flannel: Bowling Green and Red.
Bowling Green is a refreshing lemony fougere, kind of a citrus barbershop scent. And Red is a long discontinued huge mossy aldehydic floral Chypre (I found a decant from the 80’s). Definitely a vintage powerhouse. December 25, 2023 at 1:20pm
Aurora: Hi Adam, so glad you’re enjoying Bowling Green, my brother has been wearing it for twenty five years. December 25, 2023 at 5:08pm
shoshana siegelman: In our delightful afternoon trying niche perfumes at Perfumology in Philadelphia, both my husband and I fell in love with Delta of Venus by Eris. I recommend both the shop and the perfume. Best date ever. December 25, 2023 at 1:31pm
Rachel H: Happy holidays and happy new year to this generous and warm community!
I have a perhaps troublesome question. I have a box of quite a few small decants I’ve been accumulating over the years that I don’t wear, but when I open the box I keep them in I love the smell so much I wish I had a perfume that smelled like that. What would happen if I combined them all into one bottle? Would they smell like what I smell from the box? Or, would they change each other by interacting ?
Thank you for this wonderful giveaway Victoria! December 25, 2023 at 1:34pm
hera: I was thinking the same thing the other day. I have a box with decants and samples which smells sooo good, maybe one day i will put them all together in a nice vintage crystal perfume bottle and see what happens!! December 25, 2023 at 3:30pm
rachel h: Do post here what happens if you do! I would love to hear it! You’ve emboldened me. I hope someone who either has done it or makes perfumes may advise too. December 25, 2023 at 6:45pm
Nina Z: I’ve been thinking about this for a while and I believe combining all the perfumes would be unlikely to smell the same as the box does. It is very likely that some of the decants are leaking more than others, so what is making up the smell isn’t even amounts from all the decants. It may even be that just one is contributing mainly to the smell. Maybe sniff all the bottles individually to see if one of them is what you are smelling?
That being said, if you really want to do this experiment and aren’t worried about accidentally creating a hot mess, have at it and combine them all and tell us how it goes, December 28, 2023 at 7:17pm
Rachel h: I think you are probably right about it not being all the decants, and it could easily become a hot mess based on my forays into layering. One often cancels out the other, or the combining deconstructs both. I’ll report back if I try. December 29, 2023 at 12:06am
Mari: Hi Rachel. I’ve done this experiment with a box of about 25 samples from various brands. I did not like the result. The strongest notes took over. It was entirely unsubtle and gave me a headache. However, it was a fun way to satisfy my curiosity, and perhaps your mixture would work out better than mine did. January 16, 2024 at 7:15pm
Rachel h: Thanks for sharing your results Mari. It did seem too good a dream. I wonder, were the samples a collection of very different perfumes or did it seem like they may compliment each other at first? I feel like I have read that in the mixing, perfumes take some time to ‘marry’ together and settle into what becomes a composition. I do look forward to experimenting when I get time! I hope Victoria is still offering her perfume classes then. January 17, 2024 at 12:10am
Anna Egeria: Happy holidays everyone!
I have a bottle of vintage YSL Champagne which I love. It’s now Yvresse which is only sold in one size and is expensive. I can’t find a decant. Does anyone know if it is exactly the same? Are there any fragrances close to it? December 25, 2023 at 2:27pm
Aurora: I find the modern Yvresse more fruity and linear. I think in this case vintage is the way to go😃 December 25, 2023 at 5:11pm
rs Shelly Rubinstein: Happy holidays to all. Victoria thanks for returning to us. I enjoyed Rooster House and I am choosing it for our book club. This week I have returned to Guerlain Insolence and as ever Chanel 19. Wishing everyone a happy 2024. December 25, 2023 at 2:49pm
Valerie Manke: I have been trying to find a scent that smells like rain on cement. I grew up in Minnesota and one of my strongest scent memories is going outside after the rain and the warm air and steamy rain on the sidewalk smelled so good. December 25, 2023 at 3:34pm
Marty Marshman: Hi
Le Labo Baie 19 is one to try for the petrichor element. Demeter does one too but I forget the name?… thunder something
Cheers
Marty M December 26, 2023 at 2:36am
Diana: Valerie – How nice and funny too; I grew up in southern Florida and going outside after the rain (and it RAINS in Florida) and loving the smell of as you say ‘steamy rain on the sidewalk.’ So good! Thanks for sharing your memory. I’ll be checking back to see if anyone has a suggestion……… December 26, 2023 at 8:35am
Kia: I’d suggest Concrete by Comme et Garcons – to me it smells exactly like that, maybe more mineral than warm, if that makes any sense 😀
And definitely try Petrichor from Demeter as Marty already suggested!
Wishing everyone a happy 2024 🙂 December 28, 2023 at 9:41am
Sebastian: Pluie Noire (Parfumerie Particulière) has something of grey asphalt in rain. But there are lots of other notes, fresh, woody, medicinal. It’s a bit industrial and techno.
Black Tar (same producer) is mainly hot tar to me, but others also smell cement. Not really damp, though.
There is a perfume by Solstice Scents, During the Rain, that has notes of concrete, earth, limestone, clay, petrichor. Might be a fit. I don’t know that perfume and perhaps it is no longer produced.
You might try anything that has the word “Mitti” in it. Mitti is an attar that smells of wet clay. Often the clay earth distillate is paired with sandalwood. I don’t know where you live, but in Germany, for example, Maienfelser Naturkosmetik offer such an attar. I have not smelled it myself. December 28, 2023 at 12:10pm
Allison C.: Happy holidays! I would love to be entered into your giveaway. I wore Farnesiana edp for Christmas morning, which was lovely. I don’t wear it very often.
Anyone familiar with the original and newer versions of L’eau d’Hiver and have a preference and why? December 25, 2023 at 4:09pm
Allison C.: Happy holidays! I would love to be entered into your giveaway, thank you.
I wore Farnesiana edp for Christmas morning, which was lovely. I don’t wear it very often.
Anyone familiar with the original and newer versions of L’eau d’Hiver and have a preference and why? December 25, 2023 at 4:21pm
Old Herbaceous: Merry Christmas, Victoria and BdJ readers! I’ve been enjoying Papillon’s Bengale Rouge over the weekend, it is so warm and cozy. Victoria, congratulations again on your book! I hope that 2024 brings peace to all. December 25, 2023 at 6:05pm
Billy Erb: Café et Cedre – Zara. I was very surprised to find this inexpensive masculine fragrance. A waiter was wearing it at my local restaurant. I loved it and asked him about it and he was so happy to recommend it. It’s very powerful, full of ambrocinide crystals and cedar and has a big sillage. The price is under $30!!! Amazing. I like to layer something deep and rich over it. December 25, 2023 at 7:05pm
Josey: Hello! I’ve recently become curious about tonka, having smelled and loved the note in BDK Velvet Tonka and Guerlain Shalimar Millesime Tonka. Can anyone recommend and budget tonka-heavy fragrances with great lasting power? Thank you! December 25, 2023 at 8:45pm
Amanda: Hi Josey,
I too love Tonka as a note!
Some to try with a great tonka note are:
1. Modern Muse Nuit/Estee Lauder
2. Mon Guerlain Intense/Guerlain
3. Tonka/Solinotes Paris
4. Le Bain Joop/Joop
5. Addict edp/Christian Dior (maybe not ‘budget’)
Thank you Victoria, for offering your generous giveaway! Festive greetings to you & your family. xx December 25, 2023 at 10:59pm
Amanda: Oh, and also Dior Hypnotic Poison edp. December 26, 2023 at 1:47am
Gabriela: Hi, Josey. My favorite perfume with tonka is Bengale Rouge by Papillon. Also, it is gorgeous to wear this time of the year.
Victoria, thank you for the giveaway. Your kit sounds wonderful. December 26, 2023 at 3:45am
Aurora: Hello Josey: Réminiscence Tonka is very good. December 26, 2023 at 6:52am
Kathy: Chanel Coco Noir and Coco Mademoiselle edp Intense both seem to me to open with tonka – so you’d know upon testing. A caveat: tonka and I often don’t get along, but I enjoy wearing both of these when all the other notes have developed more! December 26, 2023 at 7:13am
la_ninon: Happy Holidays! I’ve fallen in love with the opening of Profumum Patchouly, but it softens so quickly, especially for the price. Can anyone recommend a similarly raw, thick, dark patchouli that doesn’t lose its bite? December 25, 2023 at 9:33pm
PP: Happy Holidays dear Victoria and thank you for the generous giveaway! Can anyone recommend me a perfume in the same realm of “Iris Silver Mist”? December 26, 2023 at 4:05am
Marianella: I would say that Hermes Hiris and Atelier Cologne Silver Iris. December 26, 2023 at 6:37am
Renate: Happy festive season to Victoria and everyone in this lovely community. I am a lover of iris notes, too. I would recommend Iris Perle by les Indémodables and Bukhara by Gallivant. Iris Silver Mist is a class of its own, of course, but you might like the iris notes in the ones I mentioned. Beautifully cool and elegant! December 26, 2023 at 7:13am
Marianella: Merry Christmas to everyone in this lovely community. Merry Christmas, Victoria.
I have a seasonal quest. Could you please help me find a perfume that smells like candied oranges? Is there something like that with roses or other florals? December 26, 2023 at 6:36am
Kathy: I have not smelled it recently, but I remember thinking of orange peels with Hermes Elixir des Merveilles. It is spicy and ambery, though – no florals. December 26, 2023 at 7:43am
Diana: Hello Maianella – Try a sample pack of Sylvaine Delacourte’s orange blossom: ‘Osiris’ is for me a candied orange boldly sugary tangy then a honeyed creamsicle – it’s too sweet for me but maybe you’ll like it! December 26, 2023 at 8:27am
Notturno7: Hi Marianella,
Fleurs d’Oranger by Lutens is gorgeous….. Orange, white flowers come to mind and a fruity, grape like note. Not candied oranges but it’s rich w other florals. It’s a very happy, exuberant fragrance to my nose if you know what I’m trying to say. 😉 December 27, 2023 at 5:36am
Sebastian: This comment reminds me of another scent by Serge Lutens: Baptême du Feu. I haven’t tested it, but it officially contains candied orange peel. (And a host of other Christmas things.) December 27, 2023 at 3:49pm
Karina: Jo Malone has/had a scent called orange bitters – that one is candied oranges to me. December 28, 2023 at 11:23am
Kathy: Please recommend your long-time favorite perfume that delighted you by smelling the same in its current formulation. I’ve found that Estee Lauder and Guerlain are faithful to their classics, but what else have you found? Any from Serge Lutens, Amouage, Dior, or a niche maker? Thank you, Victoria, and your wonderful readers, for Bois de Jasmin. December 26, 2023 at 7:38am
Jane: Hi, this is my first time replying or commenting on this blog. It’s funny that you ask this question, as it’s one I was going to ask also. I had at least 3 bottles of the original Amouage Gold woman that my husband and I bought on a trip to London in the 1980s and subsequently ordered directly from Oman, since it was unavailable in the US. I purchased a bottle in the US about 5 years ago, and sadly, neither my husband nor myself could recognize it. It was a vague powdery thing. I eventually donated it to Goodwill. So sad, so disappointed. December 26, 2023 at 11:05am
Kathy: It is sad – a favorite perfume gives tangible connection to our memories without encumbering us. I’ve never tried Gold, and you have answered my question. I might like it as it is now, but it likely is not what original reviewers wrote about. December 27, 2023 at 8:32am
renate: Hallo Kathy, I have never been really disappointed by Chanel. All their classics have unavoidably been reformulated (more than once), but I personally find that the soul of the scents has never been lost. December 26, 2023 at 11:27am
Kathy: Thank you – I will test more of Chanel’s offerings, and be more patient. December 27, 2023 at 8:47am
Tami: Hi! Unfortunately my luck with reformulations is rather slim (RIP to one of my favorite scent memories, YSL Paris!).
But this is my slightly odd story. I have a distinct recollection of how Dior Poison smelled back when it launched–partly because, as a young teen, I hovered over it at the perfume counter every chance I got, and also because my junior high English teacher wore it daily. I never bought it in the 80s, but–in a fit of nostalgia–bought a reformulated bottle about four years ago. I like it, but it’s not the same, though it is “Poison-esque.”
I decided to buy a vintage decant from a reliable source, for comparison’s sake. That, too, was missing the exact scent I remembered! (Kind of a grape gum edge.) AND it smelled relatively close to the newer bottle I own, though distinct enough for me to know it wasn’t a mislabeled sample.
Without a time machine, I can’t tell if that lack of recognition is a trick of my memory, the integrity of the sample, my aging sense of smell, or what. So here’s the odd part: The vintage sample made me appreciate my newer bottle more. Now, I recognize that’s not going to be the case for everyone, but it’s my own story and I’m sticking with it 😉 December 26, 2023 at 9:36pm
Kathy: This is a very good perfume-lovers’ story – thank you! Poison is a perfect example for me. I hunted down and have only the vintage version, without ever even trying the new version! You’ve given a good reminder that I need to improve my testing skills, especially patience. Too bad about your favorite Paris. I returned to the love of perfumes around 2012. My first reformulated disappointment was Je Reviens. That pushed toward vintage-hunting, and it was a while before I realized “all was not lost.” December 27, 2023 at 9:03am
Tami: Thenks, Kathy! It is indeed gratifying when we can recapture that “magic in a bottle”! December 27, 2023 at 8:31pm
Sebastian: Successful reformulation – that is a nice topic for discussion.
The 2019 version of Cabochard EdP is very good and a great approximation to the original. The current version of Égoïste smells fine to me, just a tiny bit more elegant than the original issue. And of course Mitsouko! Mitsouko had been reformulated almost to death, and it was Thierry Wasser who not only revived it, but it gave it back its dignity. December 27, 2023 at 3:57pm
Kathy: Thank you, Sebastian – these are all recommendations I’ll try to follow up on, especially Mitsouko. Mitsouko is a perfume that I ought to love based on the notes, but it has never seemed, somehow, special to me. December 28, 2023 at 12:56pm
Anne: I began my perfume hobby 8 or so years ago with this website as my guide. Recommend Me a Perfume has been a particularly helpful resource. If it’s not too late in the month to participate, I’d love a chance at the drawing. Kindly enter me if possible. December 28, 2023 at 12:25pm
Jasmin: Definitely “Jeux de Peau” by Serge Lutens. I hoarded my nearly empty bottle for years and was finally able to buy it again, now in the Bell Bottle, 2 years ago. When it arrived I carefully opened and tested it on one wrist, with the old formulation on the other one. It’s identical and I am so thankful for that. A lot of people seem to hate this fragrance but for me it will always be my first love. If you never tried it – please don’t read the reviews or even the notes beforehand. I feel like a lot of people hate it because of one particular note that was listed for a long time, that isn’t anymore. x Jasmin December 28, 2023 at 2:20pm
Kathy: Thank you, Jasmin! Your comment means a lot since Jeux de Peau is a favorite of yours. I will try it in 2024. December 28, 2023 at 5:52pm
John Luna: What a great question! I have found that reformulations of some fragrances I enjoy have improved over time. The bottles of Dior’s Eau Sauvage I have been wearing since the late teens have exhibited more clarity and longevity than a bottle I had from 2009. I love this composition, and have purchased more than one ‘brown box’ vintage bottle for the reference — I’m pleased to say that I get just as much pleasure out of the new bottle I own.
I’ve been buying Guerlain Vetiver through the ‘silver cap’, ‘wooden cap’ and new square bottle versions (ca. 2014-23) — all have smelled slightly different to me, but I enjoy the newest iteration as much or more than the previous versions.
I recently purchased a bottle of Chanel’s Antaeus (I had a little vintage splash bottle years ago…) I’m happy to say that it still smells rich, complex and dynamic, but sad to report that it now gives me headaches! I’m not sure what to do with it now.
Old favourites that I still reach for this winter? Obsession, Aramis and Equipage. All are a few years old at the most, but still very good fragrances; the latter is very well-composed, but rather light now.
Hoping you have a lovely new year! December 29, 2023 at 11:23pm
Kathy: Thank you, John and happy New Year to you. I,m adding the Guerlain Vetiver to my list of things to try soon. I can confirm Aramis, as I got a recent bottle at a resale store for a song. It smells wonderful! December 30, 2023 at 4:03pm
Tami: Hello! I’m interested in discovering scents with mint notes. I would prefer something on the lighter and fresher side, without/with minimal patchouli, musk, amber, strong woods, etc. Can either be like a candy mint (sweeter and/or bracing), or mint leaves (more herbaceous). I do like citrus notes as well.
For reference, I love the scent of Lush’s Dirty Springwash–but the colognes in the line are heavier and not as crisp as I prefer.
Thanks in advance! December 26, 2023 at 9:59pm
Hélène: Hello, I find that Guerlain Herba Fresca fulfills my minty herby cravings.
Happy Holidays and New Year! December 27, 2023 at 1:00am
Tami: Thank you for the suggestion! I do love Guerlain, so I will seek that one out. Happy holidays! December 27, 2023 at 3:10am
Nikos: Hello Tami. I think You Or Someone Like You by Etat Libre d’Orange fits your description-on the herbaceous side of mint. Fresh (out of the shower) minty rose. Try it if you have the chance. December 27, 2023 at 11:41am
Tami: That sounds intriguing, Nikos! Thanks for the suggestion! I especially like the sound of “out of the shower” freshness–that’s what appeals to me about the Dirty Springwash (shower gel). December 27, 2023 at 8:42pm
Cristina Mariani: Meo Fusciuni 2 nota di viaggio (shukran) has a fresh mint note December 27, 2023 at 3:25pm
Tami: Thank you, Cristina! I am not familiar with that house, so I am glad to learn of it, as well as the fragrance you recommended. December 27, 2023 at 8:49pm
KP: I would also suggest Menthe Fraiche by Heeley (James Heeley) Paris. A really beautiful rendition of a mint-centric perfume without the toothpaste accord. 😉 December 28, 2023 at 12:25am
Karina: Second this recommendation – best mint scent to my nose. December 28, 2023 at 11:34am
Tami: Wonderful! Thank you, KP and Karina. I like the sound of the cedar note—cedar works well on my skin, and never seems to overpower. I can see it being a nice complement to the mint and other notes.
PS toothpaste accord. Fantastic. 🤣 December 29, 2023 at 12:28am
KP: I also have to second Herba Fresca from Guerlain. I tried it for the first time this past summer and then sought out a bottle. Fantastic in the heat and fully unisex. December 29, 2023 at 9:30am
Sebastian: Haeckels (from the UK) produce “Richborough”, officially and rather pretentiously known by the geographic coordinates 51° 17’ 32”N 1° 19’ 51”E.
This perfume smells wonderfully of spearmint, which pervades the smell from beginning to end, embedded in changing citric and floral contexts. The scent never really warms up, even the base is bright. (Or you might say there is no base.) Really good. December 28, 2023 at 12:48pm
Tami: Thank you, Sebastian! I looked this up (as I did the others) and the elderflower note listed on the Haeckels site caught my attention. Coupled with your description of a bright base, this too sounds like a very appealing option! (Perhaps I will smell like a St Germain cocktail 😊 ) December 29, 2023 at 12:36am
Nataliya: Happy holidays and Happy New Year to all! My absolutely favorite perfume is Angélique Noire by Guerlain. I love everything about this perfume except the price. Could you recommend a perfume that you find similar to this one but priced more affordably? Thank you very much. P.S. I would love to be entered into your giveaway. December 26, 2023 at 10:41pm
Cristina Mariani: Following this question! December 27, 2023 at 3:29pm
Sebastian: Candid by Jo Adams is supposed to be an AN clone. From what I read, the head and heart are similar if more exaggerated, but the base doesn’t measure up. December 29, 2023 at 4:44pm
Nataliya: Thank you 🙂 December 30, 2023 at 11:59pm
Cris: hello Nataliya, I came here looking for answers too… I do love Angelique Noir but the price… I do have two suggestions for you. Both are close to AN somehow in my humble opinion. Although different, no dupes. Dior Addict and Diptique Eau Duelle are both vanillas with a twist and gorgeous. Are you familiar with them?
But if you really REALLY LOVE AN save money, be patient and go for it! You won’t regret it. January 10, 2024 at 10:03am
Nataliya: Thank you very much for your suggestion. I am not familiar with the perfumes that you mentioned. I definitely will try. January 10, 2024 at 12:30pm
Cris: If you want let me know your thoughts! January 15, 2024 at 2:57pm
Mari: Hi Nataliya. I love Angelique Noire too, and I find it shares a similar character to Sylvaine Delacourte Virgile. Just bear in mind that they aren’t identical. January 16, 2024 at 7:20pm
Nataliya: Thank you very much for your suggestion. I should try this perfume . I hope to be able to find it in US 😊 January 16, 2024 at 10:20pm
Notturno7: Happy Holidays and Happy New Year to all.
I just want to say how much I like this blog.
Thank you, Victoria, for creating a lovely and friendly space here and for this opportunity to write and share with others what we love.
I also want to say that I made a new friend via this blog and I met her, after writing emails and sending packages w our perfume samples back and forth for a few years, we finally met each other this summer in Oxford where I went traveling with my husband. We spent a lovely day going to the museum and sightseeing and of course, 😁we exchanged more perfume samples.
Best wishes to all and good perfume hunting.
PS
I have a book club for my friends and we’d love to do The Rooster House🙌. December 27, 2023 at 5:50am
Aurora: Meeting you and your husband in Oxford was the highlight of my summer dear Notturno. December 28, 2023 at 12:12pm
Natalie: Hello, and peaceful Christmas greetings to all. I would like to ask if you have any recommendations for scents that are similar to Nuit de Noel (1922) by Caron? Vintage for preference, but anything that has a similarly Christmassy-woody-floral combination of notes like ylang-ylang, rose, oakmoss, rose and/ or amber. NdN is one of my very favourite perfumes; I have two bottles but am a little reluctant to open them because they’re difficult to find these days. Many thank-yous in advance! December 27, 2023 at 11:37am
Emily: Happy holidays to Victoria & this lovely community. I’ve been wearing Bruno Acampora’s divine Musc oil, which I just got for Christmas. Layering it with some Musc Ravageur renders me lethally cozy luxe, I’m pretty sure. Perfect for cuddling on the sofa in fuzzy knits, my primary plan for this week. December 28, 2023 at 12:49pm
Jasmin: What comes to mind is Byredos Limited Edition with Olivers People. It had a lighthearted, joyful Patch, while the juniper berries felt grown up and dark. Surrounded with the airy citrus notes, based with musk, which I usually cannot stand, and some other notes that made it so unique (I think it had something like “sand” listed) – I never smelled a composition like this and never found anything similar, while my bottle is nearly empty. If some of you know this fragrance, any advice for something alike would be appreciated. I would describe my taste as eccentric and unpredictable. My favourite houses are Serge Lutens and Naomi Goodsir. December 28, 2023 at 2:04pm
Barbara: Yes I’d love to smell some new scents. I live in a small southwestern city, and we don’ have a wide range in the one department store that is here. I have loved so many of the old classics and still have many: Joy, Guerlain, Caron, and Chanel.
What would be a floral niche scent that could update my 60’s taste?
My daughters use Light Blue and Bulgari’s Green Tea; but I’m lookingfor something less light.
Barbara December 28, 2023 at 11:47pm
Tami: Hi Barbara—I’m not sure if Diptyque qualifies as niche, but I think you’ll find a number of their scents may fit the bill, as (to my nose) they are classics with a creative edge. In particular: Do Son (white flowers), Eau Rose, L’Ombre dans l’Eau (rose and currant), L’Eau de Hesperides (citrusy), Ofresia… they have many beautiful florals. (My personal favorite, Oyedo, is very citrusy and light—so probably not what you’re looking for, but I’ll mention it anyway.) Also worth noting are their body care items—I adore their Fresh Lotion, which has a orange blossom/light citrus scent.
If you can’t get to a Diptyque boutique or a department store that sells their perfumes, they sell a set of 5 travel bottles that includes the first three scents I mentioned.
Happy exploring! December 29, 2023 at 12:51am
Kathy: I have ‘60’s taste and almost always prefer something less light! Try Fils de Joie by Serge Lutens. Best wishes for a happy New Year! December 30, 2023 at 4:16pm
Aurora: Happy holidays fragrance friends and Victoria. My scent today was Opium secret de parfum. December 29, 2023 at 2:55pm