Bois de Jasmin is back with its “Recommend Me a Perfume” thread. You can use this space to ask any questions about perfume, including fragrance recommendations, and of course, share your discoveries.
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, all rights reserved
Abraham van den Tempel (c.1622 – 8 October 1672), a Dutch Golden Age painter. Portrait of Jan van Amstel (1618-1669) and Anna Boxhoorn (1642-1726), a fragment. Photography by Bois de Jasmin
339 Comments
Lily: Oooh, I get to be first?! I have 2 very diff ones so I will make separate comments ;).
First, mine, which is half question half recommendation: I have been craving scents lately and went to my local Sephora to get some samples. While there, on a whim, I grabbed the new Nirvana perfumes for a test sniff mostly bc the bottles were entrancing. Bourbon and Rose.
I was really impressed with both.
Rose is not very rose-heavy, to me it smelled like ginger beer, spicy and dry and sharp. I think the interplay of geranium and wood in the listed notes? Anyway, NOT what I was expecting, very cleverly done and very different from the average mall scent realm. Extra points for being from the Olsens’ design house and against the norm. But I guess that is there MO.
Bourbon…Bourbon might have been love at first sniff. It is a vanilla perfume, but a not sweet, boozy vanilla – like wearing plain vanilla extract – and i had not experienced that in a perfume before. I am used to vanilla being either an accent or a sweetener. And every now and hen I caught this sharp edge of cedar. Really intriguing glimpses of the wood. It stayed sharp and dry at least through the morning, dry down was less interesting (just a soft cloud of vanilla musk, at least that was what it seemed. I also sprayed VERY judiciously before work since I didn’t know power, perhaps I will be surprised when I retry this weekend at higher volume.
Anyway, my recommendation is to give them a sniff, a gem on the shelf.
My QUESTION is this: what are some other dry vanilla scents, especially at non-niche prices? I have a sample of Atelier’s vanilla insensee which is a very different character. Reading archived here I am considering samples of Parfums de Nicolai Vanilla Tonka and FM Dries Von Notten (sp?) as the two described as being non-gourmand vanillas.
Part of me suspects I will buy the Nirvana if it holds up to additional sampling, but since I have never looked at the note as a focal point I would at least like a few others in that genre to try to make sure I am not mistaking a love for the note with a love for the specific perfume! September 30, 2016 at 7:59am
Madtowngirl: The very best vanilla on the market imo is Le Labo Vanille44. I know, I know, it is outrageously expensive but it is at least worth buying a sample for the pure enjoyment of wearing it a few times. It is definitely dry, not a hint of sweet and if I hadn’t known the name would have guessed it to be an incense fragrance. I have also tried Annick Goutal and Serge Lutens vanilla scents. Definitely not as good as the LL but worth a try.
Casmir is another vanilla-y fragrance I enjoy in the fall. Victoria has a great review. It leans a little more sweet but is a fragrance that makes a statement! September 30, 2016 at 9:31am
Lily: I have it on my decant wish list lol. Debating whether to actually try it. Will it make me not enjoy other vanillas as less-than? Or do I take the chance to enjoy a truly ephemeral perfection? Decisions, decisions.
Thanks for the other rec’s! Those were not on my radar. September 30, 2016 at 10:51am
Madtowngirl: You MUST try the Le Labo! I will never spend that kind of money on a full bottle but am so glad I got a sample😀 September 30, 2016 at 10:57am
Lily: Convinced! 🙂 September 30, 2016 at 10:58am
kayliz: Dry, with cedar, and discount: Eau des Missions Botanical Cologne by Le Couvent des Minimes. Comes in a big bottle and says to spray liberally, but it’s definitely up there with the best. September 30, 2016 at 11:29am
Annes: Hello.
For me the best vanilla scent is L eau Duelle de Dyptique. It is comforting and spicy at once. Warm and discreetly lingering. I absolutely adore it. I also really really love Creeds Vanilla, but the price is just way too much. September 30, 2016 at 9:53am
Lily: Have not tried the Diptyque, will look into it! September 30, 2016 at 10:56am
Tijana: I second this recommendation – have it on me today and it is lovely! September 30, 2016 at 11:40am
Sarah.: I love L’eau Duelle, however, it has almost no longevity on me. I have tried Victoria’s suggestion to mix it with an unscented lotion and then apply the EDP, but alas, it dries away within an hour. Any other ideas on how to increase the longevity?? It does smell heavenly, though! October 1, 2016 at 3:41pm
Cecilia: I too love Eau Duelle! Sadly on my perfume-eating skin lasts for 30 minutes.
So when I wear it, I apply Perlier vanilla and coffee lotion (almost inexpensive, 5 euro per 200 ml) and then Eau Duelle. I apply Eau Duelle both on skin and clothes. I found out that on clothes Eau Duelle is more about pepper and incense, which is stunning paired with the vanilla lotion+perfume skin scent.
The longevity increases, and the perfume lasts about 5 hours.
Also, try the EDP (which on me lasts definitely longer, but it lacks the pepper conplexity). Oh, and try Eau Duelle during summer!
Hope it helps!
Cecilia March 4, 2017 at 2:06pm
Sarah: Cecilia, thanks so much for the suggestions! I do have the EDP. Apparently, I, too, have a perfume eating body! Nothing Diptyque makes has any longevity on me. 😩 March 4, 2017 at 9:59pm
Hayley: Have you tried Diptyque Eau Duelle? It’s another nonsweet vanilla with wood/incense/spice. September 30, 2016 at 10:06am
george: Tom Ford Noir (the dude’s one) is I think a great fragrance for you to try as a likely fit for a non-niche not too sweet vanilla. (spray liberally)
For a niche offering, I would try Korrigan by Lubin. September 30, 2016 at 10:41am
Lily: Will try it next time I hit Sephora! I think I avoided TF bc the comments about Tobacco Vanille are “sweeeet!” and I try to go dry as my skin amplifies sweetness. A little goes a long was for me lol. September 30, 2016 at 10:57am
george: I’m in the UK and here we don’t have “Axe” we have “Lynx” but it’s basically the same thing, and I recently had to laugh when i saw that they were doing a couple of versions of tobacco vanilla seemingly like fragrances in Tom Ford-like packaging. They are really cheap- you can get them for about £3 a bottle. I will be giving them a try at some point; and there is an amber and a vanilla one. I don’t think they are available in the US yet (based on my checking out the Axe website) Has anyone else tried any of this range btw? And has anyone else noted the “niche” stylings of this particular range? September 30, 2016 at 11:15am
Karen A: Dries van Noten is a really beautiful sandalwood, I’m smelling it now – I’m not sure if you are looking for a vanilla-centric perfume it is that. However, it is beautiful and wears very well especially in the autumn.
And the Nirvana perfumes are wonderful! They get lots of plusses for quality and price. (And their bottles are very pretty!) September 30, 2016 at 11:00am
Lily: The main reason the DVN hit my radar was someone comparing it to the la Labo vanilla 44. And then it sounded interesting on its own even if it is not like that. I do enjoy sandalwood…. October 10, 2016 at 2:14pm
Aurora: Thank you for the Nirvana descriptions, Lily. You might also want to try Yves Rocher Vanille Noire, a woody vanilla, and not expensive. September 30, 2016 at 12:55pm
Julie F.: Will second the Vanille Noir. Nice and dry, and very often on sale for half-price. September 30, 2016 at 3:51pm
kpaint: I’ve got to try this one, along with some of the other Yves Rocher scents. They seems to have a lot of perfumista fans. September 30, 2016 at 4:34pm
Marie: Vanille by Mona di Orio is a very nice, non-gourmand vanilla. It is a mix of rum, woods, vanilla, other spices and some orange.
The price is high and the bottle is huge (mine will probably last a decade) but maybe you can get hold of a decant? September 30, 2016 at 6:43pm
Betty A: You MUST try Tauerville’s Vanilla Flash. This is not at all girly sweet or gourmand-y. Rather it is lusciously rich, bourbon-y and spicy, with lots of tobacco, perfect for fall/winter. What’s more it’s long-lasting with excellent sillage. And this high quality comes at a superb price point: approximately $60 for a bottle or half that for a rollerball. I’m on my second full bottle! September 30, 2016 at 8:52pm
Eric: You can find Un Bois Vanille from SL very inexpensively and it has its followers, though it has a very plasticy finish on my skin that I hate hate hate! I think it does pretty well for SL though. Worth a try. September 30, 2016 at 11:13pm
Surbhi: Musc Ravageur is my favorite vanilla scent (probably because I don’t smell vanilla in it). I feel like a comforting warm blanket around me. People say its vanilla that makes it warm and comforting. September 30, 2016 at 11:57pm
Jillie: I really can’t recommend highly enough Yves Rocher’s Vanille Noire (in their Secrets d’Essences line). I was quite taken aback when I first smelt it because it was soooo unsweet and powdery. It really is reminiscent of vanilla essence used in cooking! It is very good quality and not at all expensive; I don’t think you can go wrong with it. It shares a similar vibe with the Couvent des Minimes Vanilla that Kayliz suggests, and I found it easier to get hold of the YR. October 1, 2016 at 2:28am
Anne: Hi Jillie….you’re right! The Yves Rocher Vanille smells just like the richest possible baking vanilla, which I think will make my friend (an avid baker) very happy. When she first expressed to me her rekindling interest in perfume, one of the things she said when I was probing her for favorite fragrance notes was “Vanilla! Why do I even need perfume whenI can just splash myself with baking vanilla?” She was kidding—sort of, lol. I gave her 5 of the fragrances so kindly recommended here (along with a few others) and am still tracking down additional samples, but I really think the Yves Rocher Vanille will surprise and delight her. Thanks! November 7, 2016 at 10:43am
Jillie: Dear Anne – so pleased to read your comment. I am sure your friend appreciates your hard work on her behalf! November 8, 2016 at 12:41am
Anne: P.S., Jillie…..Vanille *Noire*…..but I’m sure you already knew that! 🙂 November 7, 2016 at 10:45am
Petunia: I see you have many great recommendations but I thought that I would add my two cents.
I love and own Sideris by Maria Candida Gentile. It is a very dry incense vanilla scent. Plus it comes in 15 ml bottles and is very affordable In the smaller size.
Also Black Flower Mexican Vanilla by Dame Perfumery. A dry woody vanilla. Not sure if you are in the US but if you send a local postcard to Mr. Dame, he will send a sample of your choice for free. Please look up his website for more details. Also, he offers travel size options and his prices are excellent. October 2, 2016 at 7:21pm
Liz: Petunia, thank you so much for the Dame Perfumery recommendation. I am in love with Black Flower Mexican Vanilla. I just got my sample today but I have sprayed it three times already. Before shower while cleaning the house, after the shower and then again just now since I wanted to just swim in this stuff. Lol. October 15, 2016 at 7:24pm
Petunia: Yay, so glad you like it! Mr. Dame is a wonderful man. October 16, 2016 at 10:22am
Lily: Thanks all for the rec’s! I have been moving and not able to reply as individual comments went up. I will def try some of these on my next sample order and let y’all know what I think! October 10, 2016 at 12:38pm
Lily: A work friend discovered my perfume hobby and came to me with a long list perfume question.
Her go-to was Iwalani by Aloette cosmetics, but that perfume is no longer listed anywhere on the web, so I have no idea of the notes.
Others she likes: Emeraud, Wind Song, and Indika.
I am unfamiliar with them but from listed notes they seem to be floral orientals, either no or minimal fruit, all on an amber base. But that is a pretty big family, and without knowing the character of these scents I feel unequal to making recommendations beyond “go to the store and read this summary of your tastes to the SA.”
Thanks for any suggestions OR simple descriptions of the actual scent and character of the other perfumes she likes. For suggestions def lower price point and easily had at like a Macy’s (vs a Bergdorf’s).
Thank y’all so much!!! September 30, 2016 at 8:07am
Elisa: For Emeraud — she could try Shalimar or Mitzah. September 30, 2016 at 9:26am
claire FRANCE: About Vanilla parfumes, I love UN BOIS VANILLE from LUTENS and VANILLE ABSOLUMENT (ex HAVANA VANILLE) from L’Artisan Parfumeur.
The first one is Woody, dry with dark chocolate notes
The second one is dry, with a very expensive quality of Bourbon Vanilla, tobacco and rhum notes. It still exists.
Shalimar with Woody notes and MOLINARD HABANITA (Vanilla, Amsterdammer, leather).
RÉMINISCENCE Vanille. September 30, 2016 at 10:11am
spe: She may need to get to the Estee Lauder counter, where classic type fragrances are still available for a reasonable price. Something like Spellbound, Beautiful, or Cinnabar might appeal. Or maybe Chamade from Guerlain might be a nice one to try. Perhaps Coco by Chanel. October 1, 2016 at 10:04am
Ruth: The Windsong I remember was very similar to L’air duTemps by Nina Ricci, if that’s helpful at all. October 1, 2016 at 1:21pm
Lily: Sorry for the long reply, have been moving! Thank you for the recommendations. I passed them along to my friend and hopefully she will find something she likes. I think she was just really discouraged from trying too many scents at random that were not in the right vein. If she tells me later of a winner I will report back! October 10, 2016 at 12:36pm
Cyndi: Looking for something new for the fall. I like florals, but I also like spice scented perfumes. Any suggestions? September 30, 2016 at 10:12am
Heather H: Beautiful Fall Florals:
Rose:Perris Monte Carlo rose Taif;Spicy Rose- Rose Cut
Violet:The Different Company I Miss Violet
White Floral: Narcotic Venus
Amber:Ambre Gris
Hope this helps!!! September 30, 2016 at 10:21pm
Heather H: Beautiful Spicy Perfume:
Chergui
Eau de Parfum
by Serge Lutens September 30, 2016 at 10:24pm
Cyndi: Thank you! I ordered a sample of this along with Lunea. October 3, 2016 at 8:00am
Heather H: Lunea
Eau de Parfum
by Keiko Mecheri Les Merveilles
Parfums Delrae Bois de Paradise September 30, 2016 at 10:30pm
Old Herbaceous: If the florals you like include roses, you might try Aramis’ Calligraphy Rose or Gres’ Cabaret. They are both much more interesting than their reasonable price tags suggest. October 1, 2016 at 11:16pm
Karen A: Have you tried Coco by Chanel? It’s a beauty, especially the extrait. October 3, 2016 at 5:49am
Cyndi: Yes, Coco is beautiful! I should re-visit it! October 3, 2016 at 7:59am
Notturno7: Karen A, I just got Coco extrait in London. I love it!! I gave my mom the EDP last year but the Extrait is the whole new thing! Gorgeous. I thought of you when I was getting it💖 October 4, 2016 at 1:40pm
Karen A: Yay!! Isn’t it just so wonderful!! Glad you live it!! October 4, 2016 at 3:25pm
Anu: I am not frequent poster at the BDJ but follow it religiously. I would be so grateful if you Perfumistas could give me some recommendations for some fall/winter perfumes that in your opinion have the most beautiful sillage. I am not necessarily looking for a loud fragrance but something that is warm, inviting and has an enveloping aura. I have so far enjoyed L’ambre de merveilles by hermes, Santal Majuscule, Rousse by Serge Lutens, Bois de paradis by Perfumes Delrae, but would like to sample more. Just a caveat, I don’t care for powdery notes and cannot handle Angel genre perfumes. Thanks September 30, 2016 at 10:13am
Lily: I don’t know about its sillage but YSL cinema is a gorgeous warm, dry Amber-floral scent. I wear it all year but think it truly suits fall/winter best. And I am wearing my sample of l’ambre des Merveilles today for the third time and loving it so I feel safe on the cinema rec;) September 30, 2016 at 12:16pm
Anu: Cinema going on my sample list. Thank you! September 30, 2016 at 12:31pm
kpaint: Mine, too! September 30, 2016 at 4:54pm
epapsiou: Serge has some stuff you may like: Ambre Sultan, Turque Fumerie
Malle: Portrait of A Lady
Amouage: Jubilation XXV (marketed for Men but is unisex) September 30, 2016 at 2:53pm
Anu: Unfortunately Ambre Sultan turns into powder fest on my skin 🙁
I am going to sample your other suggestions. Thank you! September 30, 2016 at 10:59pm
kpaint: Warm, inviting, non-powdery fragrances with an enveloping aura that I look forward to wearing this fall/winter:
Etat Libre d’Orange Bijou Romantique, Narciso EDP, Ann Gérard Ciel d’Opale, Annick Goutal Heure Exquise, Chanel Coromandel, Hermès Cuir d’Ange, L’Artisan Dzing!, Miller Harris L’Air de Rien, Tauer Perfumes PHI – Une Rose de Kandahar, The Different Company Bois d’Iris. September 30, 2016 at 3:54pm
Anu: Thank you! I will sample these and report back! October 1, 2016 at 10:38am
kpaint: I hope these aren’t too powdery for you. I have a high powder tolerance, and love powdery perfumes, but wouldn’t include any of those listed in that category. YMMV! October 4, 2016 at 5:00pm
Kari: Writing these all down to check out! October 1, 2016 at 11:58pm
Eric: As an owner of L’AdM, I think 31 Rue Cambon has the most perfect, polished sillage for fall and winter. I love powder though. I don’t think it’s powdery itself but it has that Chanel base. September 30, 2016 at 11:23pm
Anu: thank you! unfortunately, STC has stopped carrying Chanel, so it will be hard for me to sample this one. 🙁 Thank you again. October 1, 2016 at 10:41am
Anu: I will have to find a way to sample the Chanel suggestions. Thank you! October 3, 2016 at 8:08pm
Aurora: Cartier Baiser Vole Essence de Parfum is enveloping and has great sillage, I wear it in winter while in the summer I prefer the EDT. October 1, 2016 at 6:59am
Anu: I looked it up and it definitely is worth sampling. I don’t have much experience with perfumes with lily note. October 3, 2016 at 8:13pm
Mia: Vero Profumo Mito? October 2, 2016 at 2:44pm
Anu: Goes in my sample list! thank you. October 3, 2016 at 8:14pm
Anais: Hi, I am also a fan of SL Rousse! I also like Santal Majuscule and L’ambre. You might want to try Kenzo Jungle (used to be Jungle L’elephant), it is warm, spicy, sweet, rich. But beware, it is strong! October 3, 2016 at 2:49am
Anu: I do remember sampling this one long time ago and finding it a bit overpowering. I also probably tried in warmer weather, which I am guessing was not a good idea considering the notes. I will revisit this one when the weather gets cooler. October 3, 2016 at 8:17pm
Anu: Thanks for the recommendation! October 3, 2016 at 8:20pm
Liz: I have wanted to try Jungle l’elefant for so long now and never find it! When I studied in Spain in college in 1999 I bought the first perfume that I ever loved, Les Belle de Ricci Delice d’epices and over the next year or two used the entire bottle. I hadn’t smelled it in years, though I had kept the bottle for several after I ran out and could faintly get a slight whiff now and then. About 2 years ago now I rediscovered an interest with perfume (which has now become an obsession) and got a bottle off eBay though it had been discontinued. Thankfully it was the real thing and the unusual bottle and absolutely beautiful fragrance brought back so many memories. Anyway, on fragrantica it was mentioned that Jungle is somewhat similar and I would love to try it out. While I still love Delice d’epices it is not one I’m drawn to wear regularly and I’m not entirely sure why. Maybe the initial slightly sour note. I hope to find Jungle sometime to sample!
And in regards to this thread and other entries I’ve ordered the following samples from lucky scent:
L’air du dèsert marocain by Tauer
Black Saffron by byredo
Santal Majuscule by Serge Lutens
Cuir Cuba intense by Parfums de Nicolai
Intoxicated by Killian
Hayat by Kemi
A few of those I had read about on fragrantica too. And I have also ordered Black Flower Mexican Vanilla and Dark Horse samples from Dame Perfumery.
It will probably take me a good long while to get through these samples, but what a joyful and exciting journey scent testing can be.
I’ve decided no more blind buys because I don’t know my taste well enough yet. And I’m going sample crazy. I have several from Black Phoenix Alchemy Labs that I’m still working through as well. Haven’t seen anyone mention them yet, but their oils have been agreeing with me. Especially O, which has solicited the one and only compliment on perfume from my gentleman friend.
Thank you all for such lovely conversation and recommendations!! October 12, 2016 at 9:23pm
Jane: How about Parfum Sacre by Caron? It’s definitely warm, a bit spicy, a bit rosy and wafts delightfully without being too aggressive. October 3, 2016 at 11:42am
Anu: I will have to get hold of a sample of this one! I looked it up and it sounds so plush. Thank you! October 3, 2016 at 8:19pm
Hayley: Ahhh I have been waiting for this 🙂
1. I love sheer(?) fragrances such as Guerlain Apres l’Ondee, Frederic Malle En Passant & l’Eau d’Hiver. Could anyone recommend other fragrances in that category? I wonder what ingredient gives this sheer/wet quality.
2. Going in a completely different direction, I also want to explore more powdery scents. Prada Infusion d’Iris convinced me that soft warm powder can be a beautiful thing. Any iris+powder recommendation, or powder in general?
3. Sandalwood mystery. Le Labo Santal 33, Elizabeth & James Nirvana Black, and Jo Malone Orris and Sandalwood all smell of sheer cucumber and spice. I don’t get much else, even when I douse myself in the hope of getting something more out of them. I wonder if i am anosmic to something, or if its’ how they are supposed to smell? Just for reference, I love several other sandalwoods- TF Santal Blush, Diptyque Tam Dao and Guerlain Samsara. September 30, 2016 at 10:16am
Sandra: Have you tried No19 Poudre? September 30, 2016 at 10:50am
Hayley: I have 19 but haven’t tried Poudre. On my list now, thanks 🙂 September 30, 2016 at 3:30pm
george: I have twice now gone to the Frederic Malle boutique and got Dries Van Noten sprayed on a card. I have then kept it close by and smelled the sandalwood dry down for weeks after, and even from a distance. If you are wondering if you genially anosmic to sandalwood, I’d suggest doing the same. Plus it also contains the real thing. September 30, 2016 at 11:02am
Hayley: I have an untried DVN sample somewhere, I will give it a try. Thank you for the suggestion. September 30, 2016 at 3:31pm
Madtowngirl: Have you tried Bois De Iles? It took me a few wears to get what all the hype was about. The sandlewood in the drydown is beautiful.
If you like Samsara, give 10 Corso Como a try. Victoria had a great post on sandlewood last month, check out the comments for some other recommendations😊 September 30, 2016 at 11:02am
Hayley: Victoria’s post put 10 corso como on my to-try list! I have a tiny vintage pure parfum of Bois des Iles that i use sparingly. I am looking forward to trying the EDP version that jist came out. September 30, 2016 at 9:10pm
Ili: 1. The Hermes fragrances may have that water-sheerness. Un Jardin sur le Nil/Un jardin apres la mousson; Hermessence ones. Not sure if they share the ingredient; but they’re all very sheer and subtle, I think. September 30, 2016 at 11:32am
kpaint: 2nd the Jardins/Hermessences (or just about anything by Jean-Claude Elena) recommendation in the sheer/wet category. September 30, 2016 at 4:40pm
Hayley: I love the JCE/Hermes(sence) creations, though none of them seem to have the sheer wetness i am looking for. They are either sheer or wet 😛 Jardin Sur le Nil has been my first expensive perfume purchase, and Jardin Apres la Mousson was a favorite for years! September 30, 2016 at 9:13pm
Notturno7: Hayle,
I see you like Après l’Ondee. Have you tried Jicky in some lighter formulation? I even had to return the Extrait cause it was too sheer on me. October 4, 2016 at 1:56pm
Steve L.: Iris + Powder = Dior Homme EDT (100% unisex). September 30, 2016 at 2:11pm
Hayley: Thank you! I added Dior Homme to my list. September 30, 2016 at 9:14pm
Aurora: Hello Hayley: no. 1: Do you like incense? Serge Lutens l’Eau Froide is a beautiful watery incense.
no. 2 Powder: Have you also tried Infusion d’Iris Absolue? It is more powdery than the regular one, other powdery fragrances to try: Guerlain l’Heure Bleue, Kenzo Flower, Chanel Misia, Dior Homme and DH Intense, Oscar de la Renta Esprit d’Oscar.
no. 3: I second Bois des Iles, like you I love Tam Dao, Donna Karan Wenge and Serge Lutens Santal Majuscule and Santal Blanc are also worth trying. September 30, 2016 at 2:27pm
Hayley: Hi Aurora, thanks for a thorough answer! I own the Absolue, It’s absolutely lovely for cooler weather. I should try your other suggestions. It’s been 15?ish years since i tried Kenzo Flower, about time for 2nd sniff 🙂 September 30, 2016 at 9:18pm
Tijana: For me sandalwood is hit and miss. Dries Van Noten I can artistically appreciate, but I don’t find it wearable. I do love Bois des Illes so I would recommend that as well, but other than that, I am also finding it hard to find a creamy sandalwood for myself. I like you am not into Santal 33, Nirvana or Jo Malone.
Love iris + powder and my favourite is Atelier Cologne Silver Iris. A bit on the sweeter side though. September 30, 2016 at 3:12pm
Hayley: I find Silver Iris too sweet, but then I am sensitive to & hate most sweet scents. Bois des Iles is wonderful! I hope the new EDP has good longevity. September 30, 2016 at 9:20pm
Notturno7: I also like iris in 31 Rue Cambon and it isn’t sweet. October 4, 2016 at 11:04pm
rainboweyes: What about Heure Exquise for powdery iris? Or maybe Parfums d’Empire Equistrius? September 30, 2016 at 4:26pm
Hayley: Thanks, I should try both! The only Parfums d’Empire i have tried is Cuir Ottoman, which I really liked. Can’t wait to try more from thrm. September 30, 2016 at 9:21pm
rainboweyes: I love Cuir Ottoman too! Another powdery iris that just came to my mind is L’Attesa by Masque Milano. October 1, 2016 at 3:35am
Marie: 1) Parfums d’Orsay Tilleul – Lime Blossom on a gorgeous watermelon base without being fruity or too girly. It’s also from Olivia Giacobetti who created En Passant
2) Iris + Powder = big love!
Try Iris Poudre by FM, Bois d’Iris by Van Cleef & Arpels, Bois d’Iris (The Different Company), D600 by Carner Barcelona, Iris Oriental by Parfumerie Generale.
The already mentioned Esprit d’Oscar is great too (although the iris is not predominant) as is Chanel No5 Eau Premiere. + Daimiris by Laboratorio Olfattivo is also a good one. September 30, 2016 at 6:59pm
Hayley: Tilleuil sounds very promising. I sniffed Van Cleef & Arpel Bois d’Iris the other day and it was beautiful. I can’t wait to try your recommendations 🙂 October 1, 2016 at 3:21pm
mendokuse: Have you tried Serge Lutens Bois de Violette? And maybe even Iris Silver Mist? October 1, 2016 at 2:36am
Hayley: ISM is on my list. Adding Bois de Violette as well.. October 1, 2016 at 3:23pm
Jillie: Hi Hayley – I second Marie’s suggestion of FM’s Iris Poudre, which is one of my all time favourites and which I find practically addictive. It is what it says on the tin – a powdery iris – but it’s also much more than that. Created by Pierre Bourdon, who is one of my top perfumers, it is almost reminiscent of Chanel No 5 extrait of old as it has that rich “vintage” vibe; it’s glamorous and sexy. I love it. October 1, 2016 at 2:38am
claire: Great description! I’ll second that. It was a surprise discovery for me. October 3, 2016 at 8:21pm
Lynley: Powdery iris: Pierre de Lune by Armani Prive. I will also suggest Khol de Bahrein by SHL777 although with the violet/rose candy aspect it may be too sweet. But SHL77 do make divine compositions so they are all worth a try imo 🙂
For green floral powdery in the best way ever, even if there is no iris: Yerbamate by Lorenzo Villoresi.
For the sheer, what about Lumiere Blanche?
And maybe Dzongkha for a mix of both? October 2, 2016 at 1:00am
SilverMoon: Hi Hayley,
nothing quite as lovely as FM Iris Poudre, if you are looking for iris plus powdery. Another really beautiful iris is Miller Harris Terre d’Iris. For some reason, it is rarely mentioned here, but has got me many compliments.
In terms of the sheer/wet quality in perfumes, certainly Ellena’s range at Hermes cover a number of options.
Hope you enjoy testing all the suggestions made in response to your question. October 6, 2016 at 4:55pm
Nora Szekely: Hi Victoria and perfume lovers,
I will attend (another) 19th century ball, this time in style of Empress Sisi of Austria and Hungary, wife of Franz Josef II. She was a great beauty of her time, in the second half of the 19th century.
I will wear a blue krinoline dress a la Gone with the wind or The leopard by Visconti.
What do you suggest perfumewise?
I’m open to any note or accord that you deem fitting the era and a ball’s setting as my taste very versatile.
Thanks for suggestions 🙂 September 30, 2016 at 10:33am
george: Fougere Royale is 1882 and Jicky is 1889 and Phul-Nana is 1891 so they are just about in the time period (maybe a little after) so any one of the “reconstructions” might be right.
Violets would also have been popular.
Plus I have read a number of times that Victorian ladies liked the smell of patchouli which was packed with silks as they travelled from India, the camphorous smell protecting them from clothes moths. Fashion Decree by Atkinsons used this in its Pr Release; but it itself was copied from Borneo 1834. I think you could go with this as this as your olfactory back story if you wish (as Empress Sisi was one of Victoria’s contemporaries), and either of these, or even another patchouli scent, like Coromandel. September 30, 2016 at 10:58am
Cornelia Blimber: I read a biography of Elisabeth (Sisi) by Brigitte Hamann (Elisabeth, Kaiserin wider Willen). Highly recommended!
P. 195: ”vor allem lehnte Sisi (..)starkes Parfum ab”.
Over Ludwig II merkt Sisi op: “Er war wieder in österreichischer Uniform und ganz mit Chypre parfumiert”.
So there was a Chypre. Not by Coty (1917), because Sisi died in 1898.
Seconding George: Konsulin Buddenbrook smelled of patchouli.
Have fun and let us know! September 30, 2016 at 12:13pm
Cornelia Blimber: ”merkt op” is Dutch for observes. September 30, 2016 at 12:14pm
Aurora: Another themed ball, what fun, thank you for having described your gown. For some reason I imagine her wearing Balenciaga Le Dix. September 30, 2016 at 3:35pm
kpaint: Ooh! Love this idea, particularly if the poster can find it in extrait. September 30, 2016 at 3:57pm
Surbhi: May I suggest Trayee ? October 1, 2016 at 12:04am
Old Herbaceous: Creed’s Fantasia de Fleurs is supposed to have been created specially by Creed for Empress Sisi herself. She was said to have used it to perfume her long hair, which fell below her knees! Listed notes are: bergamot, rose, iris and ambergris. It’s really lovely. You could spritz yourself generously with it, including on your hair, and float through the evening in a fragrant cloud! October 1, 2016 at 9:48pm
Mara: Dear Nora, I would suggest “Orlando” or “George Sand” by Jardins D’ Ecrivains.
Also, why not try “L’Ombre Fauve” by Parfumerie Generale?
As far as my general perfume suggestion for this autumn, check out “L’Air de Rien” by Miller Harris, the scent inspired by Jane Birkin; it’s the weirdest scent I’ve ever put on, but I am absolutely in love with it! It does not remind me of anything else I have ever worn before; it is very earthy and intellectual at the same time, bitter and sweet, powdery and sharp, and I feel that it is not a perfume that I have put on externally, but, to the contrary, it seems that it comes out of one’s own skin. September 30, 2016 at 10:42am
Tamara: Mara, I absolutely loved your description of L’air de Rien! It is definitely an odd but wonderful bird and I adore it. For me I have to be careful when I wear it, as I can’t think straight when it is enveloping my senses.
This strange beauty is the comforting melange of sleep,sex and skin and every time I smell it I’m enraptured.
So happy to know another person loves it too! October 1, 2016 at 4:20am
Sandra: Has anyone ever tried Courrèges Blanc de Courrèges? Thoughts? September 30, 2016 at 10:55am
Austenfan: No, I haven’t but I’ve been wanting to for ages. I can only get my mitts on a full bottle so I haven’t made up my mind.
Here is a link to a good review:
http://graindemusc.blogspot.nl/2012/08/blanc-de-courreges-what-smells-white.html September 30, 2016 at 5:56pm
Sandra: Thank you!
I will read.. October 1, 2016 at 12:24pm
claire: The Courreges sounds very interesting: a must try for me! I’ve been loving powder, iris/orris as well as patchouli and pepper if they don’t burn through the rest. I’m surprised I’ve never heard of it, though the review link helps to clarifywhy.
Two more beautiful “white” fragrances for me are Olfactive Studio’s Lumiere Blanche and Parfum d’Empire”s Equistrius. October 3, 2016 at 7:38pm
Valesca Sinninghe Damste: I love Serge Lutens la Fille de Berlin and Byredo’s Bal dAfrique. I realize they aren’t really similar, but perhaps you could suggest something new to try September 30, 2016 at 11:09am
george: La Fille de Berlin is such a great Rose Violet. I drained the bottle I bought so quickly; it was such a comfortable easy wear. If you want to try others- Lipstick Lover, Paris by YSL, Rose Cut and Misia all offer something similar but slightly different. I only really know that Bal d’Afrique is a vetiver based scent, so my recommendations for something again similar but different would be Sycomore, Encre Noir for men, and Vetiver Extraordinaire. The perfume behind Bal d’Afrique is Jerome Epinette who also produced a lot of the Atelier collection. I know they do a discovery collection, so if you want to try some more of his work, maybe this, or a discovery set from another brand, like L’artisan Parfumeur. September 30, 2016 at 11:33am
Tijana: Vetiver Tonka from Hermes for Bal d’Afrique.
I also love La Fille de Berlin… Love rosey violets, but my focus is usually more on violets than rose. Love Guerlain Insolence, Chanel Misia, L’Artisan Drole de Rose. September 30, 2016 at 3:16pm
Notturno7: Tijana, we love the same rose violet perfumes! It’s like you wrote the list of perfumes I have. October 6, 2016 at 7:00pm
Tijana: Rosey violets rule! ❤️ October 6, 2016 at 8:00pm
Notturno7: I wonder if they’ll make Misia extrait. That’d be something. Do you have Insolence or Insolence EDP? I ended up getting both versions cause they smell so different. I almost like EdT better with that strange top note. October 7, 2016 at 4:10am
Tijana: Ot sure, good question… i know Chanel is just about to launch the Exclusifs reformulated as EDP, so I doubt extrait is in plan soon, but I could be wrong.
I have and love EDP. Don’t mind the EDT, but EDP is love. I also had an extrait which was just amazing, but unfortunately it is now discontinued… 😞 October 7, 2016 at 5:44am
Sandra: Have you tried anything from the Guerlain desert collection? September 30, 2016 at 11:46am
Sandra: Rose Nacree could be nice to test.. September 30, 2016 at 11:46am
Tati: I love La Fille de Berlin. When I want something close but I little stronger for night I think Une Rose by Malle is very close. October 1, 2016 at 4:44pm
Notturno7: I second Tijana and George’s choices and love Misia, Insolence and La Fille. I recently fell in love with Hermes Galop which is a gorgeous rose and leather. Mmmm, feel like putting some on right now 😍 October 4, 2016 at 11:11pm
SilverMoon: I have both of these and really like them. For BdA, i smell more marigold than vetiver. Sometimes I think it reminds me of Aimez Moi, in spirit if not perfumr notes. Not sure what else to suggest there. However, I could list many roses along lines of FdB. I would second Une Rose (FM), and add Ta’if Rose (Ormande Jayne). mind you they are very different but somehow seem to fit within a similar mood. Also Parfums de Rosine have a number of variations on rose with other flowers or other notes. October 6, 2016 at 5:10pm
Alex: I’m looking for a dark, warm, spicey, incensy fragrance that is *not too sweet*. Some failed candidates: Comme des Garcons Avignon is too cold; Jaisalmar is closer, but I don’t like the grassy/vetiver drydown; Amouage Interlude is a bit too sweet and aggressive; Serge Lutens Amber Sultan is very close, but still too sweet; same goes for Ambre Loup.
It seems like the bottleneck here is that it’s hard to get something warm that isn’t also sweet. Suggestions? September 30, 2016 at 11:25am
george: Monsieur by Frederic Malle. September 30, 2016 at 11:35am
spe: I’m not sure if these are warm enough: the new Dioressence by Dior. Prada L’eau d’Ambre. Malle Noire Epices. Possibly Chamade by Guerlain. I dislike warm, sweet fragrances. But I do like powdery. September 30, 2016 at 1:51pm
Tijana: by Kilian Incense Oud? There is no oud detectable to my nose, just incense…
Armani Bois d’Encens is also one of my favourites – it has labdanum for wartmth and also spices…
ELDO Rien and Rien Intense Incense might be an option too, but they also contain leather.
I personally also love Passage d’Enfer from L’Artisan, and I find it warm, but I don’t see other people describing it that way… September 30, 2016 at 2:39pm
Alex: I really liked Incense Oud when I first smelled it. But there’s a sort of thinness to it that I can’t put my finger on.
Bois d’encens is on my to-try list. Thanks. October 2, 2016 at 3:38pm
Neva: Spe already suggested and I second it – F. Malle Noir Epices. September 30, 2016 at 3:53pm
Julie F.: Incensed by Smell Bent? September 30, 2016 at 3:58pm
Mia: Seconding. Smell Bents are really good. October 2, 2016 at 2:59pm
Alex: I’ve never heard of this house. I’ll try to sample it. Thanks. October 2, 2016 at 3:38pm
Mia: Yes. It’s an American niche-brand. Very good quality with reasonable prices. Nice 4 ml samples! Good luck =). October 2, 2016 at 11:00pm
Aurora: Hello Alex: One of my favorite – not too sweet and no vetiver – incense is Kenzo Madly. September 30, 2016 at 4:11pm
Karen A: Received a sample of Serge Noir and loved it, give it a try. (I put off trying it as it had mixed reviews and many people didn’t care for it, but I really loved it – it’s on my to-buy list) September 30, 2016 at 4:44pm
kayliz: George by Jardins d’Ecrivains. Has a bit of a Habanita edge but is subtler & warmer. September 30, 2016 at 7:10pm
Ana Maria Andreiu: Give Farmacia Annunziata Ambra Nera a try if you can. It is a perfectly balanced amber, with some incense and an animalic streak that makes it absolutely addictive. No spices though. Noir Epices which was suggested before is a lovely, very interesting choice but in my view it is not a warm scent. Despite of all the spices and woods this one has a haughty, aloof quality that I find mesmerising. Best described probably as fire encased in ice. There’s a slight aldehydic quality to it, an effervescence which I associate with champagne. October 1, 2016 at 2:44am
Mariannaf: +1 for Ambra Neta October 2, 2016 at 3:20pm
Mariann: Have you tried any of the Tauers in particular L’Air du Desert Marocain & Incense Extreme. The base seems to be hit & miss, but if its a hit… October 1, 2016 at 4:25pm
Alex: I’ve only tried L’Air du Desert Marocain. I do really like it, but there’s something metallic about it that, to my nose, gives it a cold vibe. I might still fall in love with it though. I guess I should give Incense Extreme a sniff. Thanks. October 2, 2016 at 3:40pm
Tara C: There is a new variation on it out this fall called Au Coeur du Désert, you might try that. October 2, 2016 at 6:55pm
Kari: I happened to get a decant of Tauer L’Air du Deser Marocain and Papillon Anubis around the same time. To me, they are similar but Anubis is warmer and lacking that metallic bite (I had that experience with the Tauer, too.) It’s definitely not sweet, definitively rich, dark and spicy. October 3, 2016 at 11:10pm
Lynley: Marrakech by Aesop. Not sweet just a big blast of dark yet still quite sheer spices. Easily worn in any season. October 2, 2016 at 1:04am
Alex: I’ve been meaning to try this but forgot all about it. Thanks for the reminder. October 2, 2016 at 3:40pm
Marianna: I highly recommend Sultan Pasha’s attars. His incense is amazing!! October 2, 2016 at 3:21pm
Notturno7: Hi Alex, I love Tom Ford Shanghai Lily, Victoria reviewed it and now I have enough to last me a lifetime. It’s a warm and oriental fragrance. I also love Extraits of Coco and Coco Noir. October 4, 2016 at 11:49pm
Bianca: Have you tried Tom Ford Sahara Noir? It’s bone-dry, but quite complex. Don’t let the presence of amber and vanilla in the notes fool you. SN is disco’d, but there’s a lot of it around, at discounters and on eBay. October 9, 2016 at 1:47pm
Maria: Hi everyone!! It is my first comment here, but I read you everyday. I have to say also that english is not my first language, so I hope this message would not be too difficult to understand. I have a question for you. I love discreet parfums, that stay all day without disturbing, but evolving and changing. I’m completely in love with Infusion d’Iris from Prada. I love his floral character and I love that it is a parfum that stays all day long, but it keeps discreet. I use it on fall and winter, alternating it with Chanel 19, just because I want to avoid to get used to it, and because I like No. 19 pretty much too. The question is that I found both of them too heavy for summer. I would like to find something similar, but brighter and fresher. I live in a small town but I have access to almost all the perfumes from the mainstream. Ocasionally, I could travel to a big city near home and buy niche parfums. I work as a multimedia artist, so I’m always dressed pretty casual. I want a parfum that could be “chic” without being too elegant and incoherent with my jeans style. September 30, 2016 at 11:34am
Tijana: Hi Maria,
How about Chanel 19 Poudre? I find it a great cross between Infusion d’ Iris and #19.
Also, if you have access to Atelier Cologne, you may find their fragrances appealing, specifically Oolang Infini or Bois Blonds. The latter has a very modest projection and strength. September 30, 2016 at 2:34pm
Maria: Thanks a lot Tijana! I really like Chanel 19 Poudré (it is what I’m using today :-)) but, as Chanel 19, I find it strong on summer. Probably it’s just psychological, after the rude winter in Québec, I just want to change :-). I’ll give a try to Atelier Cologne fragances. The description of Bois blonds is just beautiful! September 30, 2016 at 4:32pm
kpaint: Have you tried Chanel Cristalle Eau Verte? It smells (to me) a closer relative to N°19 than Cristalle but is lighter and fresher than either. Very summery. September 30, 2016 at 4:46pm
Maria: I haven’t tried it yet, but I will do it today. Thank you 🙂 October 1, 2016 at 8:00am
Tijana: Hi Maria – Just remembered Chanel La Pausa! Beautiful iris, but I never bought it because I felt it was too weak. I just remembered that it might be perfect for you! And if you are already trying it, also try Bel Respiro from the same line. September 30, 2016 at 8:22pm
Maria: I’m on my way to a Chanel boutique. Both have beautiful names, on my native languages. Thank you for your advice! October 1, 2016 at 8:02am
Maria: Hi Tijana! I tried both of them, and I love it. But, for the bad news, only the testers were available. Chanel is going to replace all the Exclusives EDT by the eau de parfums version. I’m sure they will be very nice too, but they are going to be even more expensive. Very sad 🙁 October 3, 2016 at 12:35pm
Tijana: Oh, too bad! I knew they were about to discontinue EDTs, did not realize it has happened already! Yes, they will be significantly more expensive, unfortunately! October 3, 2016 at 2:00pm
rainboweyes: What about Hermes Hiris? It’s powdery and green, great for warmer weather! September 30, 2016 at 4:28pm
Maria: I’m waiting for a decant of Hiris d’Hermes! I’ve just bought it two days ago. Thanks a lot rainboweyes! September 30, 2016 at 4:34pm
Maria: Tested yesterday!! I’m completely in love. It’s lighter than Chanel 19 and Infusion d’iris, but at the same time it has an earthy character that I love. The prize is reasonable (compared to La Pausa et Bel Respiro, that I found lovely too). Thanks again for your advice! October 3, 2016 at 12:42pm
rainboweyes: I’m glad you liked it! It’s one of my all-time favourites for spring and early summer (although I love La Pausa too) October 4, 2016 at 7:33am
Gabriela: Have you tried Chamade? September 30, 2016 at 5:06pm
Aurora: Maybe for something effortlessly elegant in summer Hermes Jardin series, there are 4 of them, or Hermes Eau des Merveilles, or Chanel No 5 Eau Premiere or the new Chanel No 5 L’Eau. Also Jacomo Silences is very nice for the summer. More for the mid-season Annick Goutal Grand Amour and Heure Exquise. September 30, 2016 at 7:04pm
Maria: Thank you! I find Eau Première really lovely but there’s some sweetness (vanilla maybe?)that make it difficult for me. I’ll give a try to Jacomo and Annick Goutal October 1, 2016 at 10:02am
JoDee Molina: Hi Maria,
How about Guerlain’s Après l’Ondée? It is light and lovely. I think it works well dressed up or casual, the only caveat may be that you have to reapply. I also enjoy de Nicolai’s Jour d’éte and Juste un rêve– both discreet but interesting and chic! September 30, 2016 at 10:11pm
Maria: I’ m waiting for a decant of Après l’ondee. All the reviews are beautiful. I didn’t Nicolai parfums but I will look for them October 1, 2016 at 10:53am
Elizabeth: Maria,
For a subtle but long lasting Iris, I have been slowly falling love with Parfumerie Generale
PG 14 Iris Oriental. It reminded me a little, of no 19. Less watery than Prada. October 1, 2016 at 12:33am
spe: Hi Maria,
I share your taste in perfume. I’m going to suggest some that have been around for a long time – Cashmere Mist by Donna Karan, eau de campagne by Sisley, and some that are newer – California Reverie by Van Cleef and Arpels or Monsier Li by Hermes. October 1, 2016 at 10:29am
spe: Forgot Eau de Ciel by Goutal October 1, 2016 at 10:50am
Maria: Thank you! Donna Karan it’s a surprise for me, I’m going to look for it. I’ve used Eau de campagne on my pregnancy, I love it but, for me it means this beautiful 9 months. Maybe I will try it again October 1, 2016 at 11:13am
spe: Cashmere mist EDT is powdery and drier – the edp could get a little sweet for you. Also Frances Kurdjian pour le matin / petit matin (bright, long-lasting fresh musky), Kelly Caleche edp. October 1, 2016 at 11:50am
Tara C: Have you tried Frédéric Malle Eau de Magnolia? You can get it at Holt Renfrew in Montréal. October 2, 2016 at 6:58pm
Maria: Oh no! I was at Holt Renfrew this weekend and I didn’t saw Frederic Malle parfums. I will search them on my next travel 😉 October 3, 2016 at 12:38pm
Notturno7: Maria, I love similar scents, No 19 and Cristalle in the hot weather including Chanel 31 Rue Cambon and Estée Lauder Private Collection. They are beautiful chypres but maybe not as sheer as you want. La Pausa is too light on me and I really like these other two. October 4, 2016 at 11:34pm
Maria: I like Cristalle EdT too, but, surprisingly, it fades really quickly on my skin, like La Pausa on you :-). I’ll give a try to Estée Lauder Private Collection. Thankyou! October 6, 2016 at 3:59pm
Notturno7: Maria, Someone gave me the sample of the new Tom Ford Vert D’Encens and I can’t take my nose off my wrists. It’s probably too strong for what you’re looking for but it’s gorgeous. Wood and incense. Mmmmm😍 October 6, 2016 at 8:53pm
Maria: I will look for it!! Maybe it’s a good option for winter 🙂 October 7, 2016 at 11:22am
Tijana: Question: after much agony, I finally bought Le Labo’s Gaiac 10 which I adore. I say “agony” because of the price and the fact that it is an exclusive which I will only have access to 1x year. But, I searched high a low before I bought it and could not find a recommendation of a similar perfume. If anyone has any recommendations what might be a good alternative, it would be greatly appreciated! September 30, 2016 at 11:47am
Sandra: Following this one…
I liked it too but I couldn’t justify the price September 30, 2016 at 1:29pm
Sandra: If you look at the website fragrancesoftheworld you can find 3 similar September 30, 2016 at 1:31pm
Tijana: Thanks Sandra, however, I don’t find those similar at all – I tried them and they are woody category, but that is where similarities end. Two of them are very much vetiver (which Gaiac 10 does not have) whereas the 3rd one is very peppery… But thanks again! September 30, 2016 at 2:29pm
Aurora: Perhaps you could explore the Montale line, it has many oud/agarwood scents or you can go down the attars road, I can recommend Al Rehab Oud, you can buy some for a very reasonable price. September 30, 2016 at 8:45pm
Penelope: Hi,
I was wondering if anyone could recommend something with notes of basil and pepper, the smell after picking basil and cilantro out of the garden is divine. I want to wear it. It’s a funny request but maybe someone knows.
Thanks! September 30, 2016 at 12:31pm
epapsiou: There is Lime, basil and Mandarin by Jo Malone that may fit the bill. And the new Basil Neroli
Hermes has some in Jardin line that might fit what you want – tomato stem, basil etc September 30, 2016 at 2:57pm
kpaint: I get a lot of culinary herbs, particularly basil, from Hermès Un Jardin sur le Toit. That said, I may be alone in this as the primary profile is of apple and pears. September 30, 2016 at 4:04pm
Neva: A rather strange scent comes to my mind…Italian Leather Cuirs Nomades by Memo Fragrances. It contains pepper, vanilla, sage, tomato leaf, iris…it’s very special and you may like it. September 30, 2016 at 4:03pm
kpaint: If you’re looking for cilantro, try Summer
By Dasein. I sampled it recently and can’t say I enjoyed it, but it is one big huge fat dose of cilantro 🙂 September 30, 2016 at 4:07pm
Penelope: Thank you! September 30, 2016 at 5:13pm
kayliz: Try Eau du Sud by Annick Goutal:) September 30, 2016 at 7:15pm
Theresa: Hi Penelope!
I’ve only tried one of this line, but of the 4711 range, they have a selection combiningfruits with herbs, the Lavender & Thyme is very interesting, very herby, and they also have a Blood Orange & Basil, maybe this nears what you are looking for? October 1, 2016 at 5:50am
jenniemic: For basil, you might like Eau Illuminee by Parfums del Rae. I doesn’t smell peppery, but it’s very fresh. October 1, 2016 at 10:21am
Lynley: Tacit by Aesop has LOTS of basil with citrus. Very herbal.
Marc Jacobs bang and CdG Man2 are very peppery if you dont mind a more masculine vibe. October 2, 2016 at 1:15am
Aurora: I second Jo Malone, and add Eau de Guerlain which has basil, no pepper though. October 3, 2016 at 5:38am
claire: I love the intoxicating smell of fresh basil as well! I haven’t found any great basil dominant fragrances but basil is definitely present in Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Mandarine Basilic, which is beautiful (if a bit masculine for me). Honestly it’s gorgeous. It has been discontinued but can still be found at online discounters. A beautiful bottle, too. October 3, 2016 at 7:50pm
Maria: I smell cilantro in Hermès Un jardin après la mousson. It is not officially listed as an ingredient, but along with ginger is what I smell the most in this parfum. October 7, 2016 at 11:21am
Steph: My boyfriend’s birthday is coming in about a month and I’d like to get him some new cologne. He’s been wearing L’eau D’Issey Pour Homme for years, and it smells amazing on him but I think having more than one scent option might be nice to him. What are some colognes with similar scents that I should check out? Thank you in advance! September 30, 2016 at 2:27pm
mendokuse: Guerlain Habit Rouge is a classic. Can’t go wrong. October 1, 2016 at 2:41am
Aurora: Oh Habit Rouge is lovely. Other classics: Chanel Pour Monsieur, Caron Pour Un Homme or one of the excellent colognes from Acqua di Parma. October 1, 2016 at 7:14am
Aurora: An I’ve just remembered Dior Eau Sauvage… October 1, 2016 at 7:32am
spe: Frederic Malle Brigarade Concentree, Montana pour Homme, Aqua Universalis by Kurkdjian. October 1, 2016 at 7:27pm
DaveStPaul: Hi Steph,
Since I think of L’eau D’Issey as very “modern” smelling (clean, abstract), I think you boyfriend might light other fragrances in that style (but different, obviously!).
Bulgari and Prada both make scents that have that modern, clean feel; I think anything by either of those houses would work.
I especially like BULGARI POUR HOMME SOIR, and PRADA INFUSION D’HOMME — I’ve seen both of those at Sephora and Macy’s, so they’re not too rare. The BULGARI PH SOIR has a really nice tea scent hidden in there, and the PRADA INFUSION has a crispy, classy “in my best suit” feel.
Good luck. =:o) October 3, 2016 at 10:15am
Mel: Hi everyone! Looking for a good starter scent to gift to an 18 year old young friend who just started college in Michigan. She’s never worn perfume but she’s a very pretty, not too girly, fun-loving lacrosse player from California. Any suggestions? Thanks! September 30, 2016 at 3:22pm
Karen A: The Bvgari fragrances relating to gems (sorry, drawing a blank on specific names) are really nice. Plus, they are easy to find and affordable should she really enjoy them. I buy lots of fragrances for my daughter and daughter-in-law so they have options.
One idea that’s been suggested in the past is a collection of roller balls from Sephora or Ulta. That way you can give her a variety and she can explore and see what she likes. Then perhaps later a bottle of her favorite, along with samples so she keeps having a variety to choose from. September 30, 2016 at 4:50pm
Marie: I would suggest something that she can rebuy easily if she likes the scent.
Brands that come to mind are Prade (the infusion scents) and Hermes (the Jardin collection or Eau des Merveilles).
If you have something slightly warmer or more sexy in mind for her, then maybe NR For Her (EdT)? September 30, 2016 at 7:06pm
kayliz: I think the re-buyable tips are a very good idea. Prada Infusion d’Iris, for exampke, or Hermes Eau d’Orange Verte, or Narciso For Her, or Chanel Cristalle, just to name a few. September 30, 2016 at 7:20pm
claire: The sample boxes from L’Artisan Parfumeur are nice: generous samples beautifully presented. October 3, 2016 at 7:52pm
Old Herbaceous: Sephora sells a sampler set for $65 that includes 15 different fragrance samples with a certificate that she can redeem for a full bottle of the one she likes best, even if the bottle’s list price is more than $65. You have to redeem at an actual Sephora store. She could have fun trying all the different ones and then pick out her own favorite. I have a daughter her age, and she would enjoy doing that! October 1, 2016 at 10:14pm
Marie: Hello! I like a lot NR for her eau de toillete but every woman I know has it. Is there any other familiar option but more special? September 30, 2016 at 3:35pm
TaffyJ: Yes! NR Amber Musc. Really gorgeous sweetish Amber. I tend to be anosmic to some musk, but I believe I can pick up the musky, slight powder trace in this. October 1, 2016 at 2:06am
spe: Idylle by Guerlain. October 1, 2016 at 10:15am
Joy: Thanks to the person who recommended Miller Harris, Fleur de Sel when I was asking for a recommendation for an herbaceous fragrance in the style of Aveda Shampure or some of the Chakra fragrances. It is fabulous; very herbaceous and long lasting. The Chakra fragrances and Aveda Love last mere minutes.
The Clinique Aromatics is quite intense. Although I liked it, I would not wear it heavily or a lot. September 30, 2016 at 4:00pm
kpaint: I wanted to thank SophieC for recommending Laura Biagiotti Venezia to me in last month’s thread. It’s exactly what I was looking for in a plummy perfume.
Also a thank you to Claire for recommending Lorenzo Villoresi Teint de Neige to another reader. I just got a sample a few days ago and it’s the ultimate cosmetics powder perfume. September 30, 2016 at 4:31pm
claire: kpaint: I’m so glad you tried it. Did you like it? I’m curious because it I really didn’t care for powdery fragrances in the past and this is really a powder bomb. But I just love how soft it is without resorting to sweetness. I sometimes layer it with something more defined. I finished my decant I tried so I am excited to receive the bottle my daughter purchased for me in the EU! October 3, 2016 at 7:11pm
kpaint: Congrats on your bottle! Yes, I like it very much. I’ve tried a few fragrances touted as “cosmetics powder” scents that don’t read that way on my skin. This one really does. I haven’t compared side-by-side, but it recalled Brosseau Ombre Rose for me. You might enjoy that one if you haven’t tried it.
I also layered it (unintentionally) with fantastic results. I had traces of Fendi Theorema from the morning, Teint de Neige from the afternoon, and added Chanel No 5 in the evening. The combination was utterly heavenly! October 4, 2016 at 5:06pm
Claire: Ombré Rose has come up numerous times as related. I’ve heard the pure perfume is best. It’s on my wishlist, and it’s totally affordable, but, well, there are so many temptations and it all adds up.
I imagine those layered beautifully with TdN, especially No.5. Beautiful! I tried Sonoma Scent Studio’s Rose Musc or Rose Volupte, because for me, both are often too intensely rose, so they were muted somehow by the powder, and their addition focused the powdery cloud. I should try some Chanel!
Frederic Malle Iris Poudre is another recent discovery for me. Powdery but complex and sophisticated, as I mentioned elsewhere. The price is somewhat prohibitive, so it’s nice to find alternatives, though a little goes a long way and it has sillage on me.
Blanc de Courreges was mentioned in this thread, and it sounds like an interesting powdery “white” fragrance, very much off the radar. Have you tried Equistrius or Lumiere Blanche? October 4, 2016 at 6:31pm
Gabriela: I have a friend who only wears fragrances that smell clean to her. She wears Molecules and Aqua Universalis. Any suggestions so that I can give her a new one? September 30, 2016 at 5:08pm
Cornelia Blimber: Maybe Martin Margiela Untitled.
Or Estee Lauder White Linen.
Or a nice big bottle of Thierry Mugler Eau de Cologne. September 30, 2016 at 5:21pm
maja: I second Cologne by Mugler. October 2, 2016 at 12:42pm
Aurora: Also, Philosophy Pure Grace is a clean cologne-like scent and I find that it has excellent longevity. October 1, 2016 at 7:19am
Jacquie: I purchased By Invitation by Michael Buble. It smells great for first hour, after that, I could only smell a drying, nasty chemical scent that goes right up my nose all day and night. I am now too afraid to wear it.
Any idea why? September 30, 2016 at 6:46pm
kayliz: Jacquie, just a theory: because it was constructed to smell great for the first 20 minutes, after which the purchasing decision has been made and it no longer matters. This is why lots of people on forums and blogs like this collect samples to try at leisure. Don’t be afraid to ask sales assistants for a sample of a scent you find intriguing! September 30, 2016 at 7:26pm
Jacquie: @Kayliz, ABsolulely not, I am grateful for any suggestions, which of the Bvlgari would you recommend? I saw there are many and I would like to try a few… October 1, 2016 at 1:50am
Dorothy: I like Bvlgari Black. It’s appropriate anywhere for both sexes, doesn’t have huge sillage but lasts. Turin and Sanchez list it on their ten best strange list. October 1, 2016 at 1:41pm
kpaint: This, and I’ll add that they’re probably not using the highest quality raw materials. October 1, 2016 at 2:04am
Jacquie: Also, of all the Bvlgari EDT or EDP for women, can someone recommend one? I like that for myself. I am in my early 50s, a creative, passionate woman in a loveless friendship marriage and no career, and I feel the need for the comfort of a scent. Financially, I am also very restricted, so looking for something under AUD100.
Any other brand suggestions I can get locally would be most appreciated too. I am very new to fragrance, like 4 weeks ago, I never worn any scent. September 30, 2016 at 6:50pm
kayliz: Jacquie, try anything by Bvlgari you can get your hands on, and all power to you. Buy decants rather than full bottles if you can, or at least stick to small bottles — tastes change unbelievably rapidly when you’re starting to explore perfume. It sounds as if other things may be changing too… all the very best to you from someone in a similar position:) September 30, 2016 at 7:36pm
Jacquie: @Kayliz, Oh, Thank you so much! I really appreciate your advice!! I will check out Bvlgari. September 30, 2016 at 7:37pm
kayliz: Oh bugger, I just started two replies by saying Jacquie. Sorry!! I like to think I’m not this overbearing in real life. September 30, 2016 at 7:39pm
Maria B.: Jacquie, Bvlgari Pour Femme is my go-to fragrance. It’s lovely, and it feels right in any weather and with everything I wear. I think you’ll find it comforting, but not in a cozy way–in an “I feel pretty” and cheerful way. October 1, 2016 at 12:35am
Jacquie: Oh, Thank you, Maria B, I can get this at a reasonable price at Drugstores when they have specials on! I will go check out Bvlgari range! October 1, 2016 at 1:47am
Jacquie: @Maria B, pretty and cheerful sounds good!! October 1, 2016 at 1:51am
Maria B.: It sounded like that’s what you needed. It’s very reasonably priced. I have it in eau de parfum and parfum strength–all at bargain prices. Enjoy! October 1, 2016 at 2:02am
Sofie: Jacquie, just a thought, but maybe you can hold off a bit until you find a set of the Bvlgari perfumes? I see some sort of combination of mini’s pop up regularly in my local drug store. That way you have a few pretty perfumes that you can delve a bit deeper into. The upcoming holiday season usually has a nice selection of sets of mini’s of various brands available.
I hope scent and perfume can give you a personal outlet like it has me.
I would also recommend reading Victoria’s articles about exploring scent.
xx October 1, 2016 at 7:57am
Jacquie: Oh Sofie, Thats a great idea!!! A mini set! I will keep an eye out for them at my local discount drugstore, so excited.
I am very keen to learn everything about perfume.
Yes, I spent all day reading the articles here online yesterday…
Thank you. October 1, 2016 at 6:24pm
spe: Omnia is a soft Bvlgari, Blv is a cleaner, bathtastic one. The pour femme suggestion is brilliant. I wish I could wear it. The Blv (dark blue bottle) and Omnia (brown curlicue bottle) are both discontinued, I believe, but they are worth trying if you see them around. Is there a particular reason you have restricted your search to Bvlgari? October 1, 2016 at 7:38pm
Jacquie: @Spe, Not restricted to Bvlgari, just dont know much of anything else..
This is discount store where I can go and get some perfume as close to my house. Any brand or suggestions are most appreciated by anyone.
https://www.mybeautyspot.com.au/Products.aspx?type=frag October 1, 2016 at 9:55pm
Tara C: Lots of nice choices on that web site. I would recommend one of the Bulgaris, Lolita Lempicka, YSL Cinema or my personal favorite, Bottega Veneta. Good luck and enjoy the search! October 2, 2016 at 7:09pm
Old Herbaceous: I second the suggestion of a Bvlgari mini set! There are some available online through Amazon, like the Jewel Charms Collection. I like all the scents that come in the sets but I particularly like Indian Garnet and Coral. Enjoy your new interest! October 1, 2016 at 10:26pm
Jacquie: @Old Herbaceous, Thank you 🙂 October 2, 2016 at 2:08am
Kari: To piggyback on this: keep an eye out online and not just in stores. I’m noticing Sephora has way more gift sets/sample sets available on their website that they don’t have in stores-sometimes they don’t even carry certain brands in stores. October 2, 2016 at 1:30pm
Lynley: Jacqui,
Maybe take some time out and go for a thorough wander and sniff through Myer or DJ’s. The city stores are best for range but anywhere is a good start. Spray some sample cards and label them and take them home to spend some time with them. Also ask the SA’s for samples- tell them you’re new to fragrance and want to find some things you might like.
It’s a good way to start establishing what you like, and you can always come back here after to get some non-dept store ideas too.
Have fun 🙂 October 2, 2016 at 1:23am
Jacquie: @lynley Thank you, I tried doing that, but felt so intimidated that I ran out….. October 2, 2016 at 2:04am
Lynley: It can be overwhelming having all those SA’s approach you but remember you are the customer and you are why they’re there! They’re just doing what they’re told to do by the manager:)
I just say that Im happy making my own way through and that I’ll let them know if I need assistance. Sure, another 5 girls may come up and say the same but I just dmile and say ‘I’m fine for now thanks’ 🙂 (and in my experience, many of them know scarcely more than you do- they’ve only smelled more). I started off doing this and also just sniffing the ranges at chemists, where there are less staff.
Or, if you really, really hate the idea, The Perfumed Court and Surrender to Chance do sample packs, as do LuckyScent and Twisted Lily. They all ship to Aus but it isn’t always cheap.
May the perfume gods be with you 🙂 October 2, 2016 at 2:46am
Jacquie: Thank you, Lynley October 2, 2016 at 2:50am
Victoria: I agree with Lynley’s great advice. It’s always easier to start exploring at stores that offer self-service, but don’t feel shy to say that you’re fine on your own and are just looking. If anyone starts pressuring you (it happens a lot, especially if the staff works on commission), just tell politely that you can’t make up your mind that quickly with perfume and “need to live with it a little.” This line always works well for me, because then they understand that I want just to spray some perfume on a blotter and or my skin and walk around. If you smell on blotters, label them and keep them for latter. October 2, 2016 at 8:39am
Jacquie: @victoria Thank you so much for the encouragement….I will do so again… October 2, 2016 at 4:50pm
Jacquie: Well, Thank you everyone, for $105 I got from local discount drugstore these fragrances I just love, small bottles.
YSL LouLou
Lanvin Arpege
Youth Dew
I braved up and went to fancy stores and really love these too:
YSL Opium
Shalimar
Alien
I also got Perfumes Guide KIndle by Luca Turin & Tania Sanchez 🙂
My knowledge slightly increased.
Now I have glamour in my life, and my need for sweet food to fill the emptiness has greatly subsided….. October 11, 2016 at 2:51am
Jacquie: I didnt get any from the fancy stores, but oneday I will get these one by one 🙂 October 11, 2016 at 2:53am
Marie: I am going to be in Paris at the end of October but have only limited time to visit perfume stores. I was thinking about Printemps and Serge Lutens (those exclusives!) and may still be able to squeeze in one additional store.
What would you say is an absolute must see? I was thinking Guerlain or Le Labo but there is just so much more in Paris!
+ bonus point for the person who can direct me to a shop where they sell Parfums DelRae. It seems that the brand has disappeared from the European market :/ September 30, 2016 at 7:14pm
Caroline: The website Beautyhabit carries Parfums Delrae and they ship internationally, but have no idea how expensive that might be. September 30, 2016 at 10:16pm
Marie: Beautyhabit would be my to-go onlineshop if I was in the U.S. Fragrance and natural / organic products? This has my name all over it 🙂
Unfortunately, frangrances contain alcohol and must be shipped as “dangerous goods”. This is usually over $100. Crazy world. October 1, 2016 at 5:55am
Ana Maria Andreiu: I would visit Jovoy instead of Printemps. Very extensive selection of brands and relaxed staff that leave you to browse in peace if that’s what you want. The perfumes are not behind glass doors or anything, all the bottles are layed out neatly on shelves and long tables so you can just grab and spritz as you go along. The Serge Lutens boutique is a must see of course and Guerlain’s should be interesting too. When I was in Paris it was undergoing renovations so I couldn’t visit the upstairs part but the building itself is gorgeous. I’d say it’s definitely worth a visit. October 1, 2016 at 2:52am
rainboweyes: Second Jovoy, a great place for exploring scents 🙂 October 1, 2016 at 3:24am
Marie: Thank you, this is exactly the sort of tipp that I need!
I thought I would prefer Printemps because of the exclusive lines that they carry. But if their staff follows me everywhere and makes it hard to actually try a couple of scents, then I would definitely rather go to Jovoy and maybe visit Guerlain and Chanel seperately…. October 1, 2016 at 5:47am
Qwendy: I third Jovoy ….. They are very knowledgeable but won’t follow you around and are very generous with samples, something you don’t find in France every day 🙂 If you are in the Marais Marie Antoinette is a lovely niche perfume boutique. BTW there isn’t anywhere for Del Rae perfumes in Europe …. I have recently searched everywhere …. I am waiting for my US trip in January ….. Will be happy to share samples or decants with you! October 1, 2016 at 6:05am
Marie: Wow, that’s so kind of you! I would actually really be interested in a decant of Bois de Paradis. Is that a scent you would consider buying?
As to Marie Antoinette: Good tipp, thanks a lot 🙂 It looks like a sweet little place that I would love to visit. Now there is a lot on my Paria list and I don’t know how to visit all of them but I’ll definitely try! October 1, 2016 at 7:20am
Qwendy: I don’t think Bois de Paradis is on my list, but I won’t know until I can sniff them all …. Won’t be until late January ….. If you are DYING for it by then I can certainly get a bottle for you and send it for maybe 25 instead of 100 🙂 October 3, 2016 at 5:38am
Old Herbaceous: If you are going to Serge Lutens in the Jardin du Palais Royal, the Parfums de Rosine store is also there, also in the Galerie de Valois. I haven’t been there but it’s on my list! October 1, 2016 at 10:37pm
SilverMoon: I would fourth Javoy. It’s really something different from a department store like Printemps. So more of an “experience “, and they have an excellent range. If you plan to go to Serge Lutens, then Perfumes de Rosine is a few doors up the same corridor in the gallery. And since it is really small, you shouldn’t need to spend too much time and still be able to say you visited one more. Also, the SA was really very nice, and it has a much more relaxed feel than the SL. October 7, 2016 at 5:52pm
JoDee: Hi All,
Here’s a question for those who live stateside. Where’s a girl to find Chanel and Guerlain samples / decants now that they no longer sell them at STC? Am I only left with going to the Neiman Marcus counters when I am in Dallas (which is my closest major city, a 4 hour drive from where I live)? September 30, 2016 at 10:28pm
Caroline: If you have a Nordstrom account, call the flagship Seattle store, and they’ll send regular Chanel and Les Exclusif samples. Nordstrom’s site carries some Guerlain, but they’re not at my local branch. Couldn’t hurt to ask the Seattle store if they’re carried there. They’ll be generous with extra samples if you order something–can be a lipstick, cleanser or anything really.
Ebay is also a good source for samples. As one example, the eBay store Shop France sells a number of manufacturer samples. September 30, 2016 at 11:08pm
kpaint: I’ll vouch for Shop France as well. I’ve made multiple purchases from her and only had good experiences. I think she also takes orders before embarking to Paris on shopping trips. October 1, 2016 at 2:08am
Kari: Yes, Shop in France is a really fantastic seller. I’ve bought from her several times, and not just fragrances. October 2, 2016 at 12:14am
JoDee: Shop France is a fantastic solution. I have never come upon this shop on eBay. I’ll also give Nordstrom’s Seattle a call. Thank you! October 1, 2016 at 8:02am
Maria B.: My husband recently bought me a sample of a now discontinued fragrance, Caron La Fête des Roses. I love it. It’s a true rose with the spiciness of carnation. Can anyone who knows the fragrance recommend a contemporary equivalent? Thank you! October 1, 2016 at 12:32am
DaveStPaul: Hi Maria,
Maybe The Different Company ROSE POIVREE. Modern, peppery, realistic. Worth a sample at least! =:o) October 3, 2016 at 10:39am
Maria B.: Thank you so much! I’ll give Rose Poivree a try. It’s going on my samples-to-try list. October 3, 2016 at 11:09pm
Hedwig: Dear Perfume lovers,
Does anyone know what causes certain weird unintended notes in perfumes?
I quite often smell plastic in amber perfumes, raisins instead of vanilla, and an awful window cleaner smell in coffee/chocolate scents. Am I the only one?
Also, I’m trying to get my partner to try different perfumes because I strongly dislike his Issey Miyake Pour Homme – the grapefruit is so harsh. But he’s fumatically highly conservative – every time I try something slightly adventurous for myself he says “Räucherstäbchen” (incense sticks) or “very strong” and wrinkles his nose, regardless of whether the perfume in question actually has incense or big silage!
So the question is, are niche perfumes just for the adventurous? Would I be better off looking amongst mainstream designer fragrances for something immaculately fresh and undeniably masculine for him to try? October 1, 2016 at 5:26am
Victoria: If you want something similar to Issey Miyake, it might be better to look within the department store brands. For instance, Chanel Allure Homme Blanche (this is not the exact name, but for the life of me I can’t remember these nonsensical names that perfume houses like to give to their flankers) or Kenzo Air (any variation). You can definitely find good niche perfumes, but he might be more comfortable to branch out slowly. And there is no sense to pay $$$ for the niche brands that are similar to the department store brands.
As for the unpleasant notes, your sensitivities and “skin chemistry” will determine this. Your skin might bring out some other nuances or you might be especially sensitive to certain smells. Smell the perfume on the blotter first and compare it with how it smells on your skin. October 1, 2016 at 7:48am
kayliz: Plastic in some amber perfumes: yes, me too (also affects some tuberose). Unpleasant window cleaner: yes, all over the place. Can’t join you on the raisins for vanilla though;)
More undesirable effects:
Piercing acetone-like horribleness in some niche perfumes, especially those listing oud.
Unpleasant super-concentrated musty citrus in some natural perfumes: preservative? (Citronellol? Limonene?)
Fumatically: great word! October 1, 2016 at 6:22pm
Surbhi: You might need some palette training for him. Here and there have him smell the scents that you really like. Slowly and slowly the nose won’t dislike everything as strong or awful or more politely as this is not for me. I don’t mean to say that he will like everything afterwards. Try with different samples here and there. Trying too many at once or in a day can overwhelm those who are not used to different smells. But it also depends if he has any interest in trying different perfumes. October 1, 2016 at 10:43pm
Hedwig: Thanks everyone for the answers!
I’m glad I’m not the only one smelling unintended plastic and window cleaner, Kayliz!
As for the partner, I will start with mainstream fragrances and gently offer him a few different things to smell. I know this gradual education can work because I had a breakthrough over the last year where violet and iris started off as “objectively awful”, then with exposure it became “not for me”, then “nice in some things as a supporting note”, then “worth at least smelling” and finally “I need a sample of Malle’s Iris Poudre”. I hope they will soon join my long list of notes I really like. October 2, 2016 at 2:29am
claire: You are definitely not the only one experiencing this! I really struggle with the chemical scents in so many contemporary perfumes: mainstream mostly, but niche houses can offend as well. Plastic and solvent odors, screechy chemical grapefruit, cucumber and “clean” scents. Ozonic and marine scents can be especially reminiscent of solvents. There are some fragrances that seem to evolve from pleasant/ warm /spicy/ wood accords to something too dry, astringent, and persistent. Some smell great going on then leave a terrible persistent dry down that just won’t quit.
You will find beautiful fragrances, it just may take longer.
I think fragrance houses that you know use quality ingredients ARE a better bet. Niche houses, but also Chanel, Guerlain, and others . October 3, 2016 at 8:15pm
Aurora: Hedwig I also have that experience time to time. Weird plastic Guerlain la Petite Robe Noire but not the Couture fortunately, queasy feeling: Paco Rabanne 1 Million and Dior Sauvage. October 3, 2016 at 5:57am
Sarah.: I am seeing many recommendations for Serge Lutens perfumes. I believe Victoria wrote an article about the perfumer awhile ago. What store in the USA carries his fragrances? I usually shop at Nordstrom. We travel overseas often; do I have to wait for one of those trips to find,them???? October 1, 2016 at 3:50pm
spe: The Perfume House in Portland and Essenza in Seattle carry Lutens. Also Bergdorf Goodman in NYC. Perhaps Barneys in Chicago. Maybe also Neiman Marcus in San Francisco – don’t remember – perhaps Saks in S.F.? A lot of places in the U.S. carry Lutens. October 1, 2016 at 7:46pm
Sarah.: Thank you! October 1, 2016 at 8:03pm
claire: Fumerie Parfumerie in Portland carries the full SL line. Also, a wonderful niche perfume shop! October 3, 2016 at 8:17pm
Surbhi: Barneys carry it in boston as well (but they don’t have the bell jar ones) October 1, 2016 at 10:26pm
MaggieS: Twisted Lily in Brooklyn and Scent Bar in Los Angeles carry the Serge Lutens export line and you can buy samples online from them. October 6, 2016 at 6:29pm
Notturno7: Barneys has Lutens. October 7, 2016 at 4:17am
Sofie: Hi all. I’ve decided to spend the upcoming summer sniffing as many colognes as I can. We have hot, muggy weather forecasted, not my favourite, so I thought I’d .make it as fun as possible.
My go-to colognes for the past two summers have been Ô de Lancôme, Eucalypt and Sage and Himalayan Blue (a black tea scent) both from Crabtree and Evelyn. I’ve got some mini’s of Pino Silvestre and Kölnisch Wasser (a softer, more floral take on the other one), I think I like my colognes with a bracing opening. I’m planning on bying the Atelier Cologne sample set.
Suggestions please!!! October 1, 2016 at 7:46pm
kayliz: You could try several by Annick Goutal — there are some called Cologne, but others fit the bill too, e.g. Eau d’Hadrien and Eau du Sud. And anything by Patricia de Nicolai with “Eau” in the name. There’s a fantastic Eau de Cologne in Chanel’s “Exclusifs” collection. Anything by Santa Maria Novella if you can get hold of them! October 2, 2016 at 6:01pm
Sofie: Thank you kayliz! October 4, 2016 at 4:55am
Aurora: Exellent recommendations from Kayliz and I’ll add, for a budget option that Roger & Gallet colognes are very good, if you can get hold of them, I’ve used their Fleur d’Osmanthus with great pleasure, Bouquet Imperial is also very nice, I think it’s back in production. Also Guerlain colognes (not budget), Eau de Cologne Imperiale, Eau du Coq, Eau du 68, Eau de Fleurs de Cedrat. October 3, 2016 at 5:49am
claire: Does anyone know if the Roger & Gallet colognes are available in the U.S? I’d love to try the Osmanthus. October 3, 2016 at 8:19pm
spe: Not sure if they carry that particular one: Watson Kennedy in Seattle does carry Roger & Gallet. Bois d’ Orange (sp?) is nice. October 3, 2016 at 9:05pm
Sofie: Awesome, thank you Aurora! October 4, 2016 at 4:56am
Michaela: Beautiful recommendations! I’d add Dior Escale a Portofino, very uplifting and long lasting. Definitely try the Atelier Colognes; I’m in love with Orange Sanguine, Bois Blonds, Trefle Pur (Silver Iris and Vetiver Fatal, too, but these are not in the cologne category). 4711 (Kölnisch Wasser) variations are inexpensive and worth trying. I liked best 4711 madarines and basil, which lasts pretty much for a cologne. October 4, 2016 at 8:16am
Sofie: Thank you Michaela! October 11, 2016 at 6:49am
Irene Frank: I love Chanel Coco. I use the bodycreme, and perfume, yet it doesn’t last. Why? October 1, 2016 at 11:03pm
Aurora: Vintage Coco would last if you want to get down that route, keep an eye on eBay. Or Coco Extrait if you haven’t tried it already, more expensive though. October 3, 2016 at 5:52am
kpaint: If this is your everyday combination, it’s possible you’re developing nose-blindness and are losing the ability to detect it. When I suspect this is what’s going on, I’ll ask someone else if they can smell me. If they can and I can’t, that means my nose needs a break 😉 October 4, 2016 at 5:16pm
Karen A: Will second kpaint’s comment. For various reasons, periodically I have to take a perfume/anything scented break. When I (very slowly) begin using perfumes again am generally a bit shocked at how strong the fragrances are.
My suggestion is to take a complete break for two weeks or so – it’s really rough the first couple of days – then start using small amounts.
As Victoria commented when I posted something about taking a break and noticing a strong increase in my scent-detection, taking a break can be very helpful.m October 5, 2016 at 6:18am
silvia: I love Bal a Versailles, unfortunately it is difficulty to find online and I don’t want to risk a knock-off or rancid bottle. Any recommendations for one that smells as beautiful? October 2, 2016 at 2:06pm
Anais: Hi, greetings from sunny Singapore. I am female in my late thirties, an artist (painter) and interior designer. I really love the way this blog pairs art and perfumes. I am quite adventurous, like perfume a lot, wear it according to my mood, and sometimes for inspiration. Perfumes that I like : Kenzo Jungle L’elephant, Fracas, Jicky, SL Rousse, Ilha do Mel (Memo), Annick Goutal Neroli, BLV Bulgari, Voyage d’Hermes, CDG Kyoto. Perfumes that I don’t really enjoy (but sometimes wear for its mood): Bulgari black, SL Chypre Rouge. While I quite like strong perfume to wear at home (I like Kenzo Jungle L’elephant and Fracas), I also need something understated for everyday wear (which is not offending in public transport or elevator in hot and humid weather). So maybe you can help me find perfumes that have personality, has depth, creative and artistic, maybe one to wear in private, and another one for everyday wear. October 3, 2016 at 2:28am
Aurora: Hello Anais: For an everyday perfume in humidity you might wear a really good cologne:
Explore Atelier Cologne: Orange Sanguine, Bois Blonds, Trefle Pur, Silver Iris
Or Philosophy Pure Grace, Eau de Rochas, Bvlgari Eau Parfumee au the vert, rouge, blanc or bleu
Christian Dior Escale series is also very well done (Escale a Pondichery, aux Marquises… etc)
Or a light fruity floral if there is Cacharel in Singapore I love Noa l’Eau (apple and cassis) or Yves Saint Laurent In Love Again (blackcurrant) or explore Atelier Cologne line: Orange Sanguine, Bois Blonds, Trefle Pur
Or a light incense: Serge Lutens l’Eau Froide.
For a perfume for inspiration I don’t know why but I think of l’Artisan Parfumeur Timbuktu a complex woody perfume. If I think of more I’ll add them. October 4, 2016 at 10:31am
Aurora: You might be interested in an incense centered perfume to get inspired: Tom Ford Sahara Noir (Victoria advises to put it on a scarf as it so Big) and Etro Messe de Minuit which I like even more. If you find Timbuktu too dry try Dzongkha, it’s an ‘easier’ scent and one last rec. if you haven’t tried it yet and like jasmine, Annick Goutal Songes is the perfect perfume to dream as the name indicates. October 4, 2016 at 1:33pm
Anais: Wow, thank you for the recommendation! I like both Timbuktu and Dzongkha, and couldn’t decide which one I like more… they have different personalities. If I compare it to space, one is a complex outdoor landscape and another one is an elegant old library.
I haven’t explored cologne yet. I find the Bvlgary au the vert or blanc pleasant but not memorable. I do like vintage Habit Rouge, but the new one smell different, less dusty…and I really like the “dust” in the vintage one.
I haven’t tried Tom Ford Sahara Noir and Etro Messe de Minuit. Looking forward to sniff them both. October 4, 2016 at 10:30pm
Anais: Victoria, I like the way you interpreted “chiaroscuro” in perfume. You gave Passage d’enfer and Caron Bellodgia as examples of perfume that has it.
I know that most perfume has “layers”, and transparencies, something that equals to glazing in painting. What would you consider a perfume that has a masterpiece quality in this aspect? October 5, 2016 at 1:15am
Victoria: To me it would be Mitsouko, Chanel Bois des Iles or the original J’Adore. That kind of effect is difficult to achieve! October 5, 2016 at 5:58am
Aurora: Hello Anais: Sorry I coudn’t introduce you to anything new re Timbuktu and Dzongkha, I love your description of them, so poetic! I hope you will find Sahara Noir and Messe de Minuit inspiring. I’ve just realized I forgot to mention the incense I wear most: Kenzo Madly, it’s not talked about much but is softer than Sahara Noir which I find very interesting but a bit challenging at times. October 5, 2016 at 4:40pm
SilverMoon: Hello Anais,
have you tried any of the Etat Libre d’Orange line? Not sure if they are available in Singapore? I think you might like Fils de Dieu or Putain des Palaces (both very different). Also, Diptique has some excellent ones that would suit hot humid weather. Finally, I would second Songes (especially on a hot tropical night). October 8, 2016 at 5:26am
Aurora: Hello Silvia: in Fragrantica BAV is compared to Molinard Habanita and Amouage Memoir Woman so maybe you could sample these two perfumes. October 4, 2016 at 8:09am
Aurora: I posted in the wrong place so here I go again – In fragrantica BAV is compared to Molinard Habanita and Amouage Memoir Woman so you maybe you could sample these two. October 4, 2016 at 10:01am
kpaint: I wouldn’t worry about counterfeit bottles (this is generally only a risk with high-tag popular fragrances.) If you’d like a new risk-free bottle, purchase from a store (online or B & M) with a good return policy so you can return it if it’s not up to snuff. October 4, 2016 at 5:19pm
Steve Vaughn: Aha, I find it! Please suggest a subtle, understated scent for the gentleman doctor in clinic. Tasteful, understated, low sillage. October 3, 2016 at 5:03pm
Michaela: It depends on your preferences, of course.
I’d select vetiver in Lalique Encre Noir for Men or Guerlain Vetiver. Many choices at Hermes: Terre d’Hermes, Voyage, maybe Les Jardins series, Eau de Narcisse Bleu.
Bulgari Eau Parfumee au The Vert has a big sillage, but is very elegant and ‘light’. October 4, 2016 at 8:27am
Michaela: I forgot Annick Goutal Duel, the most understated of all, tasteful and close to the skin. October 4, 2016 at 8:32am
Steve Vaughn: Duel is quite what I needed, and 4711 is decent, tastefully understated. I did not find Encre Noir subtle enough, nor The Vert. I still appreciate other suggestions! October 13, 2016 at 8:13am
Michaela: I’m happy you like Duel! It’s elegant, understated, and very rewarding. October 13, 2016 at 8:18am
Steve Vaughn: Thanks so much! I shall let you know how they wear in clinic. October 4, 2016 at 10:11pm
Victoria: I was also thinking Annick Goutal Duel or Hermès Osmanthe Yunnan (or any of Hermès colognes). October 5, 2016 at 5:59am
Mia: All scents of Divine line are gorgeous but/and subtle. For example Homme d’Coeur is a beautiful gentlemany iris. They have nice sample sets, too. October 5, 2016 at 3:12pm
Steve Vaughn: It is an excellent scent. I love it. December 1, 2016 at 9:59am
Mia: Oh, happy to hear that! December 1, 2016 at 10:56pm
Steve Vaughn: Thanks so much! I’m taken with Duel by Annick Goutal, and The Vert (Bulgari) as very strong possibilities, on the first wearing. October 8, 2016 at 11:38pm
Margherita: I am looking for something particular. Not the common perfumes to be found at Sephora. I’ve been at Jovoy and bought Corsica Furiosa, which i fell in love with. May I kindly ask You something similar, something that wakes you up in the morning, just like a breathe in the country?
Sorry for my bad Italian-English! October 4, 2016 at 12:53pm
Victoria: Corsica Furiosa is a green, mossy perfume. One option is Eau de Lierre by Diptyque, which is fresh and green. I also like Hermes Eau de Narcisse Bleu, which is green and mossy, but with a very different character from either of those perfumes. October 4, 2016 at 12:59pm
DaveStPaul: Ciao Margherita!
Please also try Annick Goutal’s NINFEO MIO. Very green, warm, fresh, invigorating. I think it smells like how an actual garden smells, rather than a perfume version. I think you might like it. =:o) October 4, 2016 at 8:59pm
Victoria: Yes, it’s a garden in a perfume bottle! Such a good way to describe it. October 5, 2016 at 6:00am
CristinaM: Hi Margherita, nice to see a fellow Italian here! I recommend MECHANT LOUP by L’Artisan (definitely wakes you up! green and charming) it is currently on sale at 40% off at many stores.
If you want write to me at cm CHIOCCIOLA cristinamariani PUNTO it, for details.
A presto!! October 13, 2016 at 2:54am
Cecilia: Hello! I’m writing here for the first time .
My cousin is getting married and I wondering wich perfume I would use.The wedding it’s going to be in summer, at night, and I’m 35.
I tend to love oriental and powdery perfumes, right now my favorites are: Shalimar, Shalimar PI, Coco edt, Narciso Rodriguez for Her Absolu, JPG Classique and Kenzo Jungle (which I love since I was 18).
But my husband and my mother dislikes that kind of perfumes so I wish you could suggest me something appropriate for a wedding, with presence and more modern specifically for this occasion .
I also love more actual perfumes like Jour Hermes, Infusion Iris Prada and Idylle eau sublime, but they have poor longevity on my skin.
Some big dislikes are LaVieEstBelle and Kelly Caleche.
I have to say that I live in Uruguay, South America and niche brands are not available here.
Thank you very much! I will appreciate your suggestions! October 5, 2016 at 5:05am
Victoria: Have you tried Kenzo Amour? It’s also powdery and oriental, but it’s light and airy. It has a good presence.
Another suggestion is the new Alaia. It’s another enveloping but luminous perfume, with a beautiful sillage.
Shalimar Soufflé is another option. October 5, 2016 at 5:57am
Cecilia: Thank you so much Victoria!
Today I’m going to Montevideo and I going to sample them. I’ll report! October 5, 2016 at 1:13pm
Cecilia: Alaia it’s really great!
I’m sampling it in my skin right now and it’s modern, soft and intresting.
Victoria I read your review and love the phrase “pleasing doesn’t have to be boring”. It couldn’t be a better way of describe this fragrance.
Thank you. October 8, 2016 at 12:18pm
Maria: Cecilia! Have you tried Baisers Volés de Cartier? It is powdery but light and is quite elegant. It is easy to find, even in South America. Buena suerte!! October 6, 2016 at 4:07pm
Cecilia: Thanks María!
Yesterday I could not sample any of the perfumes, but this weekend I think I’m going to be lucky. I’ll look forward Cartier too.
Gracias! October 6, 2016 at 5:17pm
Anne: Dear Victoria, for the sake of a dear friend I’m in need of your assistance and would very much appreciate your considered recommendation as to a gift scent. My dear friend once loved perfume, and for 10 years wore Dioressence (which she discovered in Paris) as her signature scent. She stopped wearing perfume at the behest of her fiance—a rat bastard of a scoundrel who later jilted her without notice, after which she had no heart for perfume (which I suspect might be a sad reminder of her losses). This was years ago. She never married. Nor did she ever return to fragrance. Recently, however, she mentioned to me a rekindling interest in perfume; perhaps even a desire to find a new signature scent. Hooray! I know that only she can decide on something so personal as a new signature scent, but I’d love to encourage her waxing interest by giving her perfume for Christmas. Along with her past love of Dioressence, I can offer you these clues—-she loves the scent of lemon blossom, orange blossom, lilac, freesia, roses, canterbury bells, and also enjoys marine scents. When asked about sillage, she said she prefers clean and subtle scents. Asked if she prefers powdery or creamy, she said powdery. Based on this, can you kindly recommend one or more perfumes? (An array of samples as stocking stuffers might excite and entice her senses even more than a single selection.) I enjoy your site and greatly respect yourknowledge,
insights, and opinions. Thank you in advance for any assistance you may provide. October 14, 2016 at 9:07pm
L: Hi 🙂
Since I am quite young, I am kind of a newbie in the perfume world.
A friend bought me CKs Sheer Beauty, but it doesnt really fit. I hope you can help me 🙂
So I am rather sporty with a faible for tradition, but also minimalism (I love balmain, as well as alexander wang (especially his line with h&m) to explain it in clothes). So fusion and creativity is my thing.
My perfume should not be too subtle and should have an air of confidence/boldness and lightness/freshness at the same time.
I dislike heavy floral/oriental scents, as well as sweet scents. I actually do like the classic ones eg. chanel no. 5 and some more unisex scents, but I miss the feshness and the hint of young femininity in those.
I hope you have some suggestions for me.
Best L. October 15, 2016 at 7:43pm
Aurora: Hello: Have you explored Hermes? Your request calls that house to my mind. In summer you might like Un Jardin sur le Nil, a green mango over woods, so not overtly sweet, or Eau de Narcisse Bleu which is very versatile, or Voyage which is unisex but I never thought it lacked anything (I wear it quite a lot) also more in summer. And the classic Caleche for fall and winter is a woody floral, you mention you like some classics. Also check out the Hermessence collection, one might suit you.
Others that came to mind: Three more classics not too sweet a: Ralph Lauren Safari, Guy Laroche Fidji (I adore that one), and if you like lavender, try Jicky although that last one is sweeter as it is a Guerlain. Also Annick Goutal Heure Exquise might be a good choice or another Guerlain: Chamade.
Last: You enjoy No 5 have you tried the new one L’Eau, I was impressed, it is brighter in the opening citrus notes and it lasted for ages on my skin.
I hope someone else will add more options for you, but you can always repost it in the next thread. October 19, 2016 at 10:33am
Katy: What do you think will be the fragrance trends in say 3-5 years? Does anything stick out, can you see any trends developing that you feel will grow? October 19, 2016 at 5:39am
Aurora: Hi Katy: I think there will be fewer perfumes with oud, this has gone on for some time now. Perhaps the trend will revert to more transparent offerings. Don’t hesitate to post your question again in the next thread you will get more answers this way. October 20, 2016 at 7:57am
Angel P.: Hi. I’m a newbie about to do perfume shopping and aim at 2, so I’d like to ask for recommendations.
My profile: female 25yo, like fragrances that are not too mainstream, not too old but not too young, not too feminine (could be unisex).
1. I’m going to visit my home country next month which is a tropical one, hot and humid. So I’d like something smells cool, acqua or citrus, something casual for everyday wear.
Two options I’m considering are Armani Acqua di Gioia and D&G Light Blue.
2. Then I’ll come back to Europe in December, so I need something that is warm, elegant and more suitable for winter. Also it’d be great if this one can be used for party and special occasion despite the season.
Three options are Kenzo Flower, Thierry Mugler Angel, Van Cleef First.
So could you recommend me which ones to choose among those? Can I layer them? For example, Acqua di Gioia + TM Angel?
If you think of any other one besides those I’ve mentioned, just let me know.
Thanks so much! 🙂 October 22, 2016 at 11:47am
Anne: Hi Angel P. I’m a perfume newbie too, and it’s interesting to see we’ve made some of the same choices. I enjoy Acqua di Gioia as well as Aqua di Gio, and in addition recommend Bvlgari au the Vert, Bvlgari Mon Jasmin Noir L’eau Exquise, and Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Pamplelune. For warmer more elegant scents I enjoy Van Cleef & Arpel First, and additionally recommend Estee Lauder Private Collection. Warm but more casual, Lolita Lempicka (original), Lolita Lempica Si, and Burberry Weekend. Hopefully someone with more experience will respond as well. October 24, 2016 at 3:48am
Aurora: Not an expert, but in addition to your lovely choices I would recommend for the heat Hermes Eau des Merveilles (orange, salty scent), Un Jardin sur le Nil (a green mango), Cacharel Noa l’Eau (apple and cassis), Yves Saint Laurent In Love Again, Chanel Cristalle. For layering why not try before your trip and see which ones work.
For winter I’ll add a Serge Lutens: let’s say Santal Majuscule if you like sandalwood or Hermes Ambre des Merveilles or Serge Lutens Ambre Sultan, if you like amber, for something more floral Jean Patou 1000, Annick Goutal Grand Amour or Heure Exquise. October 26, 2016 at 7:49am