It is an exciting spring for me for many different reasons! This morning I learned that my article Scent of Cities: Kiev has been recognized with a FiFi award for Editorial Excellence. It was a very personal article for me—I wrote it thinking about my childhood city, and as I prepare to return to Ukraine next week after 4 years of absence, this recognition holds a special significance for me. I also want to congratulate all perfume bloggers, because the Editorial Excellence in Blog category is an important gesture of appreciation on the part of The Fragrance Foundation for our work. It is wonderful to be a part of such a diverse and interesting group.
As I consider the season and the scents that make the spring of 2009 special, a few favorites stand out immediately. My list below (in alphabetical order) reflects my preferences this spring.
The elusive nature of fragrance lends itself to many associations—colors, tastes, shapes, movements. Which descriptive phrase is more appropriate depends on the fragrance itself. In case of Homage, I think of fabric—soft hand loomed silk (given its suave musky base) decorated with the gold thread (rose and jasmine.) Since it appears in every single one of my seasonal lists, I suppose that it is simply a favorite. That being said, it works wonderfully on these cold spring days.
In every Isabelle Doyen’s creation for Annick Goutal, I see an interesting contrast between modern tendency to minimalism and layered, multifaceted of classical perfumery. Matin d’Orage is not an exception—it weaves the white floral notes in an opulent tapestry, however instead of resulting in a heavy indolic bouquet, the composition is luminous and airy. I wore Matin d’Orage to celebrate Orthodox Easter, finding it an ideal fragrance for this uplifting and joyous holiday.
I am slowly coming to conclusion that whatever the rendition of Vent Vert I wear (vintage, Calice Becker’s reformulation, Nathalie Feisthauer’s rendition,) the fragrance has such a strong character that no change can take away from its exhilarating verdancy and confident presence. It is the scent of bitter greens of spring, of wet earth and of first days of sunshine.
Beige was not an instant love for me. Perhaps, I expected something different, I do not remember why it did not capture me the first time I tried it. I set it aside and forgot about it until one day I spilled the sample by accident and had no choice but to reconsider my initial opinion. Beige is a perfect name for this layered iris and gardenia composition. The ordinarily cool and earthy iris takes on an unexpectedly sensual warmth in this fragrance, while the white petals of gardenia, frangipani and jasmine provide an opulent accent.
As I commented to Denise of Grain de Musc recently, I would be perfected happy with the current version of Miss Dior if it were marketed as something other than Miss Dior. It simply lacks the strong green-leathery character of the original that was both shocking and appealing. Otherwise, it is an elegant green chypre with a delicately rendered green note. I have been wearing it throughout this spring and enjoying its vintage inflection and understated charm.
A quintessentially Jean-Claude Ellena wistful haiku describing what happens to vanilla when the creator begins to search for its orchid roots. Vanille Galante is a sweet, woody vanilla note reinvented through the petally dewiness of lilies. Absolutely fascinating scent that is worth trying simply to see vanilla in a different light.
When it comes to Joy, I alternate between the golden opulence of the parfum extrait and the sheer green jasmine of the EDT. If you enjoy the luminosity and indolic headiness of classical jasmine, Joy is unrivaled. On the technical level, it is not particularly impressive—it is a perfumery equivalent of a dish with huge quantities of foie gras and caviar (and how can it really be all that bad!) However, experience the beauty of Joy’s jasmine and rose, and you will understand why great quality natural ingredients are so crucial to the art of perfumery. For that reason alone it deserves its legendary status.
Fleur de Liane is reminiscent of green, sharper Chanel Cristalle, which for me is a good thing. Cristalle is a gorgeous chypre rendered with the classical Chanel elegance and subtlety. Fleur de Liane pushes it further, embracing the bitterness of its green notes. Anchored by the patchouli, woods and incense, this L’Artisan is a vibrant, exuberant composition. I also see it as an ideal scent for a hot summer day.
My Easter gift this year was a discovery of a beautiful pine forest right behind my house. It has small creeks in which turtles sun themselves, wildflower covered glades and deer hoof marked trails. For all of its abstraction, Bois de Violette is not far from painting a picture of this magical forest. Its radiant spicy violet is one moment away from turning into the dark, incense-inflected wood.
One of my most vivid olfactive memories of India was that of a small bouquet of champaca flowers left in the small shrine of my friend’s house. The apricot and jasmine fragrance was vivid and clear as first, but as the day grew and the sun weathered the petals, the aroma became fleshy, animalic and almost indecently sensual. The last few gasps that the flowers gave out were of dried peaches and leather. In a word, Tom Ford’s Champaca Absolute is not far from recreating this wilting champaca offering. Amazing!
For more Top 10 of Spring choices, please see Grain de Musc :: Now Smell This :: Perfume Posse :: Perfume Smellin’ Things.
Note about Comments: Due to a minor tech issue, which I am in the process of fixing, the comments appear as follows: Any comment above 100 will appear on Comment Page 2. Any comment over 200, will appear on Comment Page 3. So, if you do not see either your comment or my reply, please click on the links above. Sorry for the confusion!
Photo of Nova Scotia beach in the spring © Bois de Jasmin.
Update: The draw is now closed. I assigned a number to every participant and used a random number generator to select one winning number. The winner is Agritty. Please send me your address.
208 Comments
Molly: Great list!
Congratulations on your award! You deserve it. I’m glad you’re back to posting!
Please enter me in the draw 🙂
Molly April 24, 2009 at 4:22pm
MarkD: Congratulations! I liked that article. 🙂 No need to enter me into the draw, unless it is for the vintage Vent Vert (HA!).
What do you think of new Hermes colognes? I didn’t see your review yet. April 24, 2009 at 4:26pm
Sveta: Vikochka, I’m super happy for you! Pozdravljaju, da esche za statiu o Kieve. April 24, 2009 at 4:27pm
CindyN: Victoria,
Congrats on your engagement and the Fifi! May all your dreams come true. Please enter me in the drawing. April 24, 2009 at 4:30pm
Lavanya: Congratulations, Victoria!! (I usually lurk here..:))..I’ve also been enjoying my sample of champaca absolute..Everybody seems to be raving about VG. Must try it soon!
Would love to be entered in the draw!! Thanks!
*off to read the ‘scents of cities’ article* April 24, 2009 at 4:40pm
sara: Congratulations Victoria! Best wishes and every happiness to you. I would love to enter the drawing. Thank you. April 24, 2009 at 4:45pm
Lavanya: Victoria- I’ve been wanting to try it ever since I read Marina’s review …:) You both make it sound soo beautiful and exactly like the kind of scent (or one of the kinds of scents..lol), that I seem to be in the mood for..It sounds like a delicate version of Un Lys (is that true?).I am slightly wary of the melon note though. April 24, 2009 at 5:01pm
Lavanya: Oh and by the way- really enjoyed the ‘scent of cities- Kiev’ article..It made me desperately want to visit Kiev..:) Your descriptions are always so evocative…It also made me feel like writing about India (though it doesn’t take much to make me feel like that..lol) April 24, 2009 at 5:05pm
armellide: Ah! I love presents, sweepstakes and the likes. Please enter me in the drawing too. And welcome back too. One is extremely happy. April 24, 2009 at 5:08pm
Cadence: Congrats on your editorial award and your engagement! Please enter me in the drawing! April 24, 2009 at 5:19pm
Lavanya: I’ve sort of felt that connection (that you have) from a couple of your reviews (I don’t remember which review- it had a few descriptions of your visit/one of your visits, related to weddings and sandalwood/saffron)..That is so cool that you are planning your wedding there-(if you don’t mind my asking) where in India is the wedding?
Oh- and that is good to know about VG- will definitely try it!!
sorry for hijacking the comments thread..:) April 24, 2009 at 5:20pm
Isa: Congratulations on your wedding and your award, Victoria! I love to read you’re having a wonderful springtime.
Please, enter me in the draw! Thank you very much 🙂 April 24, 2009 at 6:20pm
Gangel: Congratulations both on private and business matters… please enter me in the prize draw. April 24, 2009 at 6:22pm
snowcrocus: Lovely selection…looking forward to your bridal posts too. I would love to smell Bois de Violette again. April 24, 2009 at 6:43pm
Jemi: Best wishes on your engagement, and congratulations on your award. The award is well-deserved.
I would love to be in the prize draw. Thank you! April 24, 2009 at 6:47pm
divinemama: V, many of my favorite scents are on your list. Please enter me in the draw.
I loved your piece on Kiev. I am so glad you received some deserved recognition for it. I read it over more than once. I long to travel. Reading about other parts of the world helps fill that desire.
Congratulations on finding a life partner who allows you to be yourself. A true gift! May your life together be filled with love and good scent! April 24, 2009 at 6:48pm
KathyT: Congratulations on all of your good news! I would love to be entered into the drawing.
All the best,
Kathy April 24, 2009 at 7:04pm
Borhane: Dear V,
Congratulations on the award! Your blog is such a lively and thrilling resource for perfume enthusiasts that were it up to me, I would grant awards to all of your articles! 😉
I’d love to be added to the prize draw!
Best,
borhane April 24, 2009 at 7:15pm
Anne: I LOVE list time! Enjoying a few on your list but from teeny weeny decants so add my name to the draw please! April 24, 2009 at 7:18pm
Natalie: Congratulations on everything! What lovely springtime gifts… I’m very glad to see you back, and I would love to be entered in the drawing — thank you! April 24, 2009 at 7:35pm
Jane: Wow, all those fragrances look so wonderful…must it be 1/2 oz of just one? (Yes, I want to be in the draw.) April 24, 2009 at 7:42pm
Janet in CA: How will you ever choose what to wear at the wedding? How fun to have an excuse to try so many different ones. Yet another reason I need to find a beau. 😉
Please enter me too. April 24, 2009 at 8:07pm
violetnoir: Wonderful, wonderful news, dearest V! Best wishes on your engagement and on the FiFi Award. You deserve every happiness in your personal and professional life, so I am thrilled for you!
I love your list and have many of these fragrances. But, I don’t have all of them, so please enter me in the drawing.
Hugs and love! April 24, 2009 at 8:09pm
Bois de Jasmin: Molly, thank you very much. I will try to do my best to post as frequently as possible.
You’ve been entered! April 24, 2009 at 4:34pm
Bois de Jasmin: Mark, sure, you can have vintage Vent Vert EDT. I have so much of it that sharing only seems logical. 🙂 April 24, 2009 at 4:35pm
Bois de Jasmin: Sveta, spasibo! I am happy that it is my Kiev article. April 24, 2009 at 4:35pm
Bois de Jasmin: Cindy, you’ve been entered! Thank you. It is an exciting week, what can I say! April 24, 2009 at 4:39pm
angie Cox: Congratulations and much happiness. April 24, 2009 at 4:40pm
Bois de Jasmin: Angie, thank you very much! April 24, 2009 at 4:49pm
Bois de Jasmin: Lavanya, I did not expect to like VG, but Marina of Perfume-Smellin’ Things was raving about it so much that I simply had to go out and try it (believe me, she was not exaggerating!) It is such a beautiful fragrance–a delicate glass ornament. It is situated half way between vanilla and lily, which makes it fascinating. April 24, 2009 at 4:51pm
Bois de Jasmin: Sara, thank you very much! I will enter you into the drawing. April 24, 2009 at 4:52pm
Juliet: Victoria, congratulations on your engagement! I wish you and your fiance much joy. And congratulations also on your award–I just read the article and enjoyed the way you evoked a place I’ve never been but would love to visit someday.
I am new to perfume and a new commenter on your blog. I have been reading the archives over the past few months, which has been a pleasure. I would like to be entered in the draw as well. Thank you! April 24, 2009 at 9:06pm
Dusan: Vika, double congratulations, dear!!! This must be the happiest spring of your life, no? Thank you so much for sharing the wonderful news with your loyal readers so we can partake of some of your joy, too 🙂
While we wait for the reviews of your top 10, I am taking the liberty of entering myself in the draw for Bois de Violette, which I have never tried, would you believe 😉 Like I said at PST, my springtime scent of choice is a green violet, Eau de Cartier, but I also find myself reaching for Bel Respiro, Kelly Calèche in both concentrations, Egoïste and Déclaration, to name a few.
P.S. Wishing you safe trip *home* xoxo April 24, 2009 at 5:10pm
Bois de Jasmin: Lavanya, you know, I feel that India is my other motherland, I feel so much connection to it. Actually, my other article in the city series is about Mumbai. I am just not able to get around to it, because I want to include photos, and it takes ages to format them.
Please do not be scared of the melon note, it is just an accent. As for Un Lys, I do not see them as related, because they sing in such different registers. I will try to describe it more thoroughly soon. April 24, 2009 at 5:11pm
Charlotte_V: Victoria,
Congratulations on your engagement and your award! I’m happy you’re back in the blogosphere–reading your old posts has been quite an education for me.
Please enter me in your draw. There’s a Vent Vert-shaped hole in my collection that’s going to have to be remedied one way or the other.:)
Enjoy your trip home! April 24, 2009 at 9:17pm
Natalie: Congratulations, what a wonderful spring this is turning out to be. Please enter me in the drawing. 🙂 April 24, 2009 at 9:38pm
Julie Ellen: Congratulations on your FIFI!! Please enter me in your drawing–maybe this spring I’ll be lucky. April 24, 2009 at 10:10pm
March the Impressed: V, congratulations on the Fifi and best wishes on your engagement! April 24, 2009 at 6:29pm
stephanie: Congratulations on both!! April 24, 2009 at 6:39pm
carmencanada: I’ve already congratulated you on the personal big event, so congratulations on the public one!
I could fully subscribe to all the scents of your list that I’ve tried (which only excludes the Amouage: they’re not available in Paris as far as I know). April 24, 2009 at 6:44pm
Arwen: Congratulations V!!!
I am glad you are posting again!
Great choice of Spring fragrances.
May I be entered in the draw please? April 24, 2009 at 11:03pm
maitreyi1978: Please enter me in the draw, and I’m glad that you’re back. April 24, 2009 at 11:06pm
Madelyn54: Dear Victoria,
Felicitations ! I couldn’t be happier for you – on your engagement (so who is the most lucky man?) and also on your Fifi !
This is the Spring of your contentment. May it continue to be so.
You have created and perfected the art of perfume writing . I will look up your article on your eloved home city. Also the ancestral city of my father’s relatives.
Please enter me in the draw !
I mourn for what was the most stunning Miss Dior and even Diorissimo – alasthey have been altered.
I am anxious to try VG and TF – Champaca .
Yes what are your thoughts on possible wedding scents ?
Best Regards, Wish we could meet in person – April 24, 2009 at 11:25pm
ooofireballooo: Congratulations! Always a pleasure to read your entries and I am sure the personal touch of the Kiev article helped you get the award. I’d be honored if you entered me for the contest! 🙂 April 24, 2009 at 8:26pm
Alica: Hi, I would be happy to get SL Bois de Violette. Thank you for entering me -:) April 25, 2009 at 1:08am
nattygold: Congratulations. Glad that you’re back. I’ve missed your writing. I would love to enter the drawing. Thank you April 25, 2009 at 1:19am
k-amber: I am so happy for you! I bought Vanille Gulante 15×4, which is like a pleasant spring breeze. I can’t wait for your reviews. Enjoy your stay in Kiev.
Kaori April 24, 2009 at 9:55pm
Anya’s Garden Perfumes: Dear V
All our reminisces about what started four years ago – aren’t the harvests beautiful? I can’t find enough words to congratulate you and I only see more wonderful recognition for your finely-honed sensibilities in the future.
PS Don’t forget to PM me your address, I’m making cuttings this week 😉
Anya April 24, 2009 at 10:16pm
Janet: Congratulations on your engagement and the award! I’m going to a wedding tomorrow … tis the season! Please enter me in your drawing 🙂 April 24, 2009 at 10:50pm
Anthony: I’d love to be entered in the drawing and as everyone else has mentioned, congratulations 🙂 April 25, 2009 at 2:54am
sweetlife: Ah, there’s your post!
First of all — mazel tov twice over! I remember that article well. Let me know if you need any tips on how to remain sane while planning and participating in your own wedding as a grown-up with other things to do.
I look forward to more words about the perfumes, but you needn’t put me in the draw. I’ve been wearing Joy this spring, too, though, heretically, I prefer the EDP in this tender green weather. April 24, 2009 at 11:17pm
Trish: No need to enter me Victoria, just wanted to wish you all the best and much joy in planning your wedding!!
Big hugs,
Trish April 24, 2009 at 11:59pm
ScentScelf: V,
I am delighted to hear both reports of happy news…congratulations on each. If you were near, I’d offer you some music for your wedding. 🙂
I’ve only tried Matin d’orage twice…but what a difference the second round made. I think I am going to like it quite a bit. Miss Dior is a favorite of mine…a few of the others I have not yet tried, including Vanille Galante. Would love to be in the draw (if there is still room….) April 25, 2009 at 12:21am
Maryla: Congratulations on your engagement and the Fifi Award!
Please enter me in the drawing. April 25, 2009 at 8:28am
Robin: Many congratulations on your Fifi award, V — it is much deserved! April 25, 2009 at 8:35am
Justine Jones: I loved your article and in fact sent it ot several friends! It started me thinking of where I grew up,in the midwest with [literally] a cornfield in my backyard. Although hardly as exotic as yours, I remember so many herbal smells from that time and now want to revisit to see if they are there anymore at all. I used to ride my horse through fields of sage…
Yes,please enter me in the drawing as well.And good luck finding a wedding scent. I went through that five years ago,and many of my memories of that day are olfactory… April 25, 2009 at 8:57am
agritty: I LOVE your list – have been wanting to try the TF Champaca for a while, now I really need to get a decant. So glad you are posting again and many congratulations on your news! I would love to be entered in your draw. April 25, 2009 at 9:33am
Connie: Victoria, congratulations on both events. What a Spring for you! I am kind of new to the perfume world but thoroughly enjoy reading and learning from so many wonderful perfume bloggers, so thank you! Please enter me in the draw. And please tell us all about the wedding planning, etc …:-) April 25, 2009 at 10:32am
Mindy: My heartfelt congratulations! I am anxious to read more from you on your happy event and your perfume musings. Please enter me for the drawing.
-Mindy April 25, 2009 at 11:05am
ambreroux: Wow! I’m so glad for you!
And woderful choices: I would have trouble choosing!
But please, enter me in the draw anyway! April 25, 2009 at 11:07am
jmcleod76: Congrats! And enter me in the draw, please. April 25, 2009 at 7:08am
EileenS: Best wishes and congratulations! You’ve had some wonderful events come to pass, both well-deserved. Your spring Top 10 is an interesting mix — I’ll have to try some of these, now that you’ve brought them to my attention with your lovely descriptions. I’ve been wearing a selection of green scents recently, among them Jacomo Silences and the current version of Vent Vert. It will take me a while to get to the late spring florals.
Please enter me in the draw! April 25, 2009 at 12:25pm
Safran: Congratulations to your engagement and the prize, Victoria, I am happy for you !
And please enter me in the draw as well.
Thank you.
Spring greetings from Germany
Safran April 25, 2009 at 12:30pm
Lavanya: V- So I went to the Hermes boutique to try Vanille Galante and came out thinking of Poivre Samarcande and Ambre Naguile..I had forgotten that I hadn’t sniffed any from the Hermessence collection.
About Vanille Galante- it smelled better on the scent strip than on my skin I liked the icy veiled vanilla smell that I got on the strip..On my hand the scent seemed to just dissolve leaving only a slight melony after taste(or smell). That might have been because I had been wearing Iris Poudre the whole day which makes any other scent smell very light- so I am not going to give up on VG till I’ve lived with a sample for a while..:) April 25, 2009 at 12:57pm
Bois de Jasmin: Armellide, thank you, they are all a lot of fun. 🙂
You’ve been entered into the drawing. April 25, 2009 at 9:05am
Bois de Jasmin: Dusanchik, thank you so much for your kind words!
Eau de Cartier is a wonderful fragrance, its yuzu note paired with violets is such perfection. All in all, I love the fragrances on your list. Like I said to March, I am kicking myself for forgetting Bel Respiro.
And you’ve been entered! April 25, 2009 at 9:10am
Bois de Jasmin: Cadence, thank you! You’ve been entered. April 25, 2009 at 9:10am
Bois de Jasmin: Lavanya, please do not apologize! The wedding talk is my favorite right now. : ) I just hope not to bore others with it. April 25, 2009 at 9:12am
Bois de Jasmin: Isa, thank you, it has been an exciting month all in all. 🙂
Entered! April 25, 2009 at 9:13am
Bois de Jasmin: Gangel, thank you.
You’ve been entered! April 25, 2009 at 9:14am
Bois de Jasmin: March, thank you. Now onto the planning itself… 🙂 April 25, 2009 at 9:15am
Bois de Jasmin: Stephanie, thank you.
I hope that you could open that email with Perfume Expo invite. April 25, 2009 at 9:16am
marcy goldman: dear victoria
every time I read your blog, I am transported from my day, my keyboard, my thoughts – to the world of scent. The surprises of new scents I would never know about, in tandem with your passion for fragrance and writer’s gift is a bouquet in and of itself.
Marcy Goldman April 25, 2009 at 9:17am
Bois de Jasmin: Snowcrocus, Bois de Violette is a wonderful fragrance, perfect for spring.
Entered you into the drawing. April 25, 2009 at 9:17am
Bois de Jasmin: D, thank you! I loved your list too, which is not surprising since we have always shared many favorites.
I did not realize Amouage is not available in Paris. I think that you might like Jubilation 25 for Women, which is a Diorella offspring. Gorgeous! April 25, 2009 at 9:19am
Bois de Jasmin: Jemi, thank you!
I’ve entered you as well. April 25, 2009 at 9:20am
Bois de Jasmin: Divinemama, thank you. I am glad that you enjoyed my Kiev piece, which was one of my own favorites. Thinking of a place where you were born is such a bittersweet exercise, isn’t it?
You’ve been entered. April 25, 2009 at 9:22am
Bois de Jasmin: Kathy, thank you, I’ve entered you. April 25, 2009 at 9:23am
Karen G: Congratulations on your engagement, and on the award! Can’t wait to hear more on which scent you might choose for the wedding. I would love to be entered in the draw because I adore “green” fragrances.
Best wishes to you! April 25, 2009 at 1:29pm
ElizabethAK: Oh, how wonderful! Best wishes to you both! Reformulated Miss Dior was actually the perfume that started me on the path to fragrance obsession. I smelled it in a Berlin parfumerie five years ago and was enchanted. It’s nice to see it appreciated! Please enter me in the drawing. April 25, 2009 at 2:08pm
Lavinia: Congratulations on the engagement! I’m still in the search phase, so I know how wonderful it must be, when you find someone who fully appreciates you and you feel the same way about him.
I’m glad you are back to regular posting, please enter me in the draw. April 25, 2009 at 3:16pm
Kit: Congratulations on the well-deserved FiFi award, as well as your engagement. Your blog has been such a treat to read over the years. Please don’t stop writing. I’ve been wanting to try Homage, especially after reading your comments, so please enter me in the draw : ). April 25, 2009 at 3:26pm
CJW: I would love to be entered. Many congrats on the well-deserved Fifi. April 25, 2009 at 3:46pm
Eric: This is my first comment on your wonderful blog, though I frequent your archives often to get your point of view. I never really caught you during a frequent-posting phase and so I’m delighted you’re back.
I’ll be up front. I generally abstain from draws, especially when I haven’t commented on the blog before (which includes most of the good ones). However, I have been dying to try Homage and haven’t put it on a sample order yet (I’ve been swamped by a recent exploration through Guerlain, spurred by an instant love with Mitsouko). So yes, I would like to be entered in your draw. I would completely understand if you chose not to enter me, though.
I’m still pretty new to perfume so I’ve only smelled two on your list: Vanille Gallante and Matin d’Orage (I’ve smelled several versions of Joy, even a vintage edition, but I can’t rightly claim to have a completed opinion on it). I was disappointed with both, really. Vanille Gallante is a mean lily on me. It’s almost like a lily bouquet, served up in a banana fosters-style, cooked in browning sugar and alcohol, rubbery, sweet, cloying. Matin d’Orage had so much promise, smelling, with the addition of orange, like I’d envisioned Vanille Galante would smell. However, the dry down reminded me so much of an unscented tea candle I was upset. April 25, 2009 at 4:09pm
Ben A: Congrats on the Fifi! And please enter me in the draw. April 25, 2009 at 4:09pm
Kess: Congratulations on the award!
Please enter me in the draw. April 25, 2009 at 5:12pm
Anya’s Garden Perfumes: How did I manage to skim the first paragraph and miss the engagement announcement?!
So belatedly, many many well wishes from me – I’m so happy for you.
Are you going to blend your own wedding perfume? If so, maybe I can contribute some very rare tinctures I’ve made, like the jasmine sambac that is sooo soft and sweet, the Grand Duke which is quite bawdy, the Michelia alba, totally narcotic, or the Vietnamese gardenia, which I’ve just started. I also have dracena fragrans, night-blooming jasmine, orange jasmine and some others I’ve forgotten right now in my excitement!
Hugs, Anya April 25, 2009 at 1:21pm
Karin: Congratulations on your engagement, Victoria! What wonderful news! Also glad to see you blogging again. I joined the readers’ pool after you took a hiatus, so missed the heyday of your regular posts. I’m excited to start reading your blog. Thanks so much for offering a draw. I’d love to be entered!!! My current fav for spring? Juicy Couture. I know, I know. It’s not some hard-to-find niche scent, or blow ’em away classic, but I love it. 🙂 April 25, 2009 at 6:33pm
Roland: Congratulations on your award and on your engagement!
I’d love to be entered into the drawing! There are several that I WANT, and it will be hard to decide… 🙂 April 25, 2009 at 2:43pm
Flora: I am SO happy for you, engaged to a man willing to be a perfume model?! You lucky woman, you! I am sure he has other excellent qualities as well of course, but we have our priorities. 🙂
Please enter me in the draw. (Hard to choose just one from your fabulous list though!) April 25, 2009 at 8:00pm
carter: Love the list! I have been hitting my supply of Bois de Violette particularly hard this spring — there’s just something about these variable temperatures that call out for it — and I have been impatiently waiting for my back-order of Homage Attar to ship (another week, they say) and have been striking out terribly in my somewhat frantic attempts to fill the void with another rose from my *collection*. Oddly enough, it has been vintage Bandit that has come charging to the rescue — it’s hitting the almost exactly the same spot. Who knew? But when I think about it, it’s not really that surprising after all. Still, the longing for the HA continues unabated, but then I’m a greedy little piggy and I would appreciate being entered in the drawing 😉
Wonderful news about the Fifi, and I will break from the others here and extend my congratulations to your lucky fiance and my heartfelt best wishes to you in the days to come. April 25, 2009 at 8:23pm
DianaWR: Congrats on your engagement and award!
Please enter me in the drawing.:) April 25, 2009 at 5:53pm
floridateach: It’s so wonderful to have you back, and with such wonderful news! Please enter me, and thank you for all you do. April 25, 2009 at 10:06pm
martha m.: Congrats on the award! And please enter me in the drawing! April 25, 2009 at 11:11pm
Eleven European Mystics: What a lovely selection. I’d like to be counted in for the draw.
Fabiana April 25, 2009 at 11:43pm
helenviolette: Congrats on your happy news!!! I would love to be entered into the draw! April 26, 2009 at 12:37am
janine hochman: Pozdravlyayu vas. i am from kiev too. you have the best, and most interesting blog. please enter me in the drawing- nina April 26, 2009 at 12:51am
zeram1: Congratulations on your writing being acknowledged. It appear that some of the ones you picked for Spring are favs of other bloggers. Please enter me into the drawing as well April 26, 2009 at 2:35am
ChantillyLace: Congratulations times two! I would love to be entered in the draw. Thanks! April 26, 2009 at 5:30am
Zazie: Congratulations!!
Please enter me in the draw: a couple of those fragrances are big lemmings!!
Thanks 😉 April 26, 2009 at 5:40am
Yellowcedar: Congratulations on the recognition and it’s like old times to have you back blogging again. Please include me in the drawing. April 26, 2009 at 5:56am
Lys: Congratulations on your Fifi, The article was great! To me, Bois de violette is the ultimate spring scent, though I am really curious about Champaca Absolute… I would love to be in the draw too! April 26, 2009 at 6:13am
Heather B: Congrats on the engagement and award! I would love to be entered in the draw. April 26, 2009 at 9:28am
Attarine: Congratulations for your engagement! I wish you alla the best.
Please enter me in the draw: Homage and Bois de violette are hauting me lately!!! [If I’m ever lucky enough to win, I would be seriously embaressed with which one to choose 😉 !!!] April 26, 2009 at 9:38am
dissed: Congratulations! and well deserved. Your list reminds me to expand my horizons (beyond greens, woods, iris and violet). I would love to be included in the draw. April 26, 2009 at 11:26am
Stella Maris: Thanks, congrats, add me to the drawing please. April 26, 2009 at 11:56am
hilary: Congratulations on your upcoming marriage! I liked your choices very much. May I please be entered in the draw? April 26, 2009 at 12:33pm
Suzanne: Congratulations!! Love the site and glad to see you’re back to blogging. Pls enter me in the drawing, thanks! April 26, 2009 at 12:51pm
Gretchen: Congratulations and best wishes! Please enter me in the drawing. Thanks! April 26, 2009 at 12:55pm
rachel: What a week for you! Congratulations and great happiness to you. I enjoyed your post about Kiev and that was how I discovered Duel, which I love. I enjoy your blog very much. I’d also love to be in the draw! Many thanks. April 26, 2009 at 1:34pm
ScentRed: Congratulations and please enter my name in the draw. I’ve been liberally spritzing Annick Goutal Chevrefeuille in the hopes it will encourage Spring along.
Thanks! April 26, 2009 at 1:59pm
Marian Bendeth: Congratulations dear Victoria!
May more fragrant dreams be realized!
Marian April 26, 2009 at 10:56am
rachaelg: congratulations, and thank you for the generous draw. please include me! April 26, 2009 at 3:15pm
Lisa D: I absolutely love these top ten lists – they are so enjoyable! Congratulations on your engagement (and, of course, the Fifi award), and please enter me in the drawing. April 26, 2009 at 3:56pm
ElizabethEElizabeth: Congratulations on both counts! I wish my husband liked perfume as I did. You are very lucky! Please enter me in the drawing, too. April 26, 2009 at 6:56pm
Melissa: Congratulations on both fronts. Great list too. I finally broke down and bought a bottle of Champaca Absolute. I haven’t regretted it for a minute. Sounds like I should try the current version of Miss Dior. I love the vintage and I have avoided the reformulation. But your recommendation makes me reconsider. Oh and I would love to be entered in the draw. April 26, 2009 at 9:01pm
Ssy: Victoria,
Congratulations on your Fifi but more importantly your engagement. To have an engagement tied to spring makes it so much sweeter. Now you must be on the hunt for the perfect wedding scent, and I do hope you’ll keep us informed of the contenders.
I would love to be entered into the draw, I’ve got my eye on both Bois de Violette and Un Matin D’Orage, both being unavailable where I live. Thank you so much for doing this. April 26, 2009 at 10:31pm
Flora: Oops, I already commented, but I somehow failed to mention the Fifi award part! Congatulations, that is so wonderful! April 27, 2009 at 12:21am
Ines: First congratulations! 🙂
I love the list and it seems Balmain Vent vert is just the thing I’m looking for this spring, I will have to try it.
And if it’s not too late, please enter me for the draw. April 27, 2009 at 10:06am
Svetlana: Vika, what a wonderful news! Congratulations! Schastja vam! April 27, 2009 at 10:45am
Nancy: Accolades to you on the Fifi Award!! It comes as no surprise to me — Bois de Jasmin is such a well received blog on scent. Most important, warm wishes on your forthcoming nuptials.
Please consider my entry to your fragrance drawing. April 27, 2009 at 1:49pm
Bois de Jasmin: Borhane, thank you for your kind words! I am so glad that the articles are interesting to others, as I certainly enjoyed writing them.
You’ve been entered. April 27, 2009 at 9:53am
Bois de Jasmin: Anne, I adore lists too! It is fun to reflect on one’s favorites of the moment.
Entered! April 27, 2009 at 9:54am
Bois de Jasmin: Natalie, I’ve entered your name!
Thank you! And spring is one of my favorite seasons as well. April 27, 2009 at 9:56am
Bois de Jasmin: Jane, yes, just one. 🙂 I’ve entered your name. April 27, 2009 at 9:56am
Bois de Jasmin: Janet in CA, I’ve entered your name.
I have no idea how I will choose it, but since there are several events associated with the wedding itself, I will be able to wear all of my favorites. I just need to at least narrow down to something manageable. Even that is not easy. April 27, 2009 at 9:57am
Bois de Jasmin: R (violetnoir,) thank you so much for your kind words. I’ve entered your name. What did you not yet try ? I was thinking of you when testing Matin d’Orage. April 27, 2009 at 9:59am
Bois de Jasmin: ooofireballooo, done!
Thank you, for that reason, I am glad that it was my Kiev piece. It was the most personal one out of the ones I wrote last year. April 27, 2009 at 10:00am
Bois de Jasmin: Juliet, thank you and welcome! I hope that you are able to visit Kiev, it is definitely a place with lots of interesting things to see. Eastern Europe in general is quite fascinating given its history. I myself would love to travel more through Russia, since I am only familiar with Moscow and Saint-Petersburg.
Entered! April 27, 2009 at 10:03am
Bois de Jasmin: Charlotte_V, thank you! I am very excited about my trip and about seeing my grandmother again.
Entered! Hope that VV will come your way somehow. 😉 April 27, 2009 at 10:04am
Bois de Jasmin: Natalie, thank you! I’ve entered you. April 27, 2009 at 10:04am
Bois de Jasmin: Kaori, I like how you defined it, a pleasant spring breeze. It is just that!
Thank you! April 27, 2009 at 10:05am
Bois de Jasmin: Julie Ellen, thank you! I’ve entered you. April 27, 2009 at 10:05am
Bois de Jasmin: Anya, it is so true! It was fun to reminisce as well. I hope that we do it more often. : ) And of course, thank you. April 27, 2009 at 10:06am
Bois de Jasmin: Janet, it is truly the season. I also had a couple of weddings to attend.
Entered! April 27, 2009 at 10:08am
Bois de Jasmin: Arwen, thank you! Spring fragrance lists are my favorites, I think, because it is the best season to enjoy scents, especially the first fragrances of nature itself.
I’ve entered your name too. April 27, 2009 at 10:09am
Bois de Jasmin: maitreyi1978, thank you! I’ve entered your name. April 27, 2009 at 10:09am
Bois de Jasmin: Alyssa, thank you, thank you! I think that I definitely need tips, sanity is something that is easy to lose when planning any wedding. In our case, it will be even more so, as our families combined number in hundreds rather than dozens. 🙂 However, everyone is excited and planning their trip.
Joy EDP is gorgeous, heavier on rose and peach than other formulations. I enjoy it very much also. April 27, 2009 at 10:33am
Bois de Jasmin: Madelyn54, thank you for your kind words.
I have been thinking that Champaca Absolute would make a wonderful wedding scent. I wanted something jasmine or white floral, but not overly heady, as it will be warm then.
I’ve entered you into the drawing. If you are in NYC on June 11th visiting the Expo (see my post below,) then we could definitely meet. April 27, 2009 at 10:35am
Bois de Jasmin: Dear Trish, thank you so much! A big hug to you too. April 27, 2009 at 10:36am
Bois de Jasmin: ScentScelf, thank you! People say that photography and music are the most worthwhile investments when planning the wedding. I am not sure that we will have any music during the religious ceremony itself (it is not common for us,) but we are planning an evening of dancing. My future MIL and me were the biggest proponents of this idea. 🙂
Sure, there is space in the drawing! I’ve entered your name. April 27, 2009 at 10:39am
Bois de Jasmin: Alica, I’ve entered you! April 27, 2009 at 10:39am
Bois de Jasmin: Nattygold, thank you, I am glad to be back too. One realizes how wonderful are interactions like these. I missed them too.
I’ve entered you into the drawing. April 27, 2009 at 10:40am
Bois de Jasmin: Anthony, thank you, I’ve entered your name. April 27, 2009 at 10:43am
Bois de Jasmin: jmcleod76, thank you! Entered! April 27, 2009 at 10:44am
Bois de Jasmin: Maryla, thank you very much.
Entered! April 27, 2009 at 10:44am
Bois de Jasmin: Robin, thank you very much! : ) April 27, 2009 at 10:45am
Lora: So glad you’re back to blogging regularly! You were the very first perfume blogger I discovered. 🙂
Please do enter me in the drawing! April 27, 2009 at 3:42pm
Carla: Thank you for your lovely writing. Please include me in the draw! April 27, 2009 at 9:12pm
Dorothy of Kingsbury: Victoria, I just read your wonderful award winning article on Scent and Kiev. Thank you for taking me there. I could experience it with all of my senses. Just a treat. April 27, 2009 at 7:51pm
Klara: Congratulations on the engagement and the award!
Please enter me in the draw. Thank you! April 28, 2009 at 3:01am
Laura: V! At last??? Congratulations from my heart to both of you! This is such wonderful news!
Xoxo,
L April 29, 2009 at 8:05am
Bois de Jasmin: Justine, thank you, I’ve entered your name.
I am sure that my childhood home would be very exotic to me, growing up in Kiev. : ) In general, the scents one remembers from childhood are the most vivid ones. April 29, 2009 at 9:00am
Bois de Jasmin: Marcy, thank you for your kind words! I enjoy your website too, since baking is another passion of mine. April 29, 2009 at 9:01am
Bois de Jasmin: Agritty, entered! It is nice to be back. 🙂 April 29, 2009 at 9:05am
Bois de Jasmin: Connie, thank you, it is an exciting spring, even if a bit hectic. I will try to tell more about the wedding planning and scents.
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 9:06am
Bois de Jasmin: Mindy, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 9:06am
Bois de Jasmin: Ambreroux, I always have trouble choosing my favorites for these lists. 🙂 I’ve entered your name. April 29, 2009 at 9:07am
Bois de Jasmin: EileenS, thank you. Jacomo Silences is another gorgeous green fragrance. It is such a joy to wear it and feel as if one is truly surrounded by the scent of spring. April 29, 2009 at 9:08am
Bois de Jasmin: Safran, thank you, nice to see you here.
I’ve entered your name. April 29, 2009 at 9:08am
Bois de Jasmin: Lavanya, hmm, after Iris Poudre, Vanille Galante might seem quite weak and thin. Hope that you have a sample to try later when you are fragrance-free. I also do not like to give up easily. : ) April 29, 2009 at 9:10am
Bois de Jasmin: Anya, thank you for your lovely words and your kind offer. I have been thinking and thinking about it, but have not decided on anything. Maybe, I will blend something after all. Well, we will have plenty of discuss! April 29, 2009 at 9:12am
Bois de Jasmin: Karen G, thank you! I know that I will have several choices for my wedding scent, so I might have to narrow down. For now, I am thinking jasmine, jasmine, jasmine…
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 9:13am
Bois de Jasmin: ElizabethAK, thank you! I realize that most of the perfumes have been changed since their births, but these days, when so many are simply discontinued, I am starting to appreciate those that are still on the shelves. Even if they are very different from what they used to be.
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 9:17am
Bois de Jasmin: Roland, thank you!
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 9:18am
Bois de Jasmin: Lavinia, thank you. Searching for someone special is difficult, sometimes frustrating, but it is also fun! Marian Bendeth wrote an article on Basenotes making a comparison between our relationships with perfume and our love affairs. It really is a good read. : )
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 9:20am
Bois de Jasmin: Kit, thank you. I am so glad to hear it. : ) Entered! April 29, 2009 at 9:21am
Bois de Jasmin: CJW, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 9:21am
Bois de Jasmin: Eric, I can definitely see how Vanille Galante can veer in the direction of a candle, it is a note away from that vanillic-floral accord. What saves it for me is the marine note that lightens up the whole effect. If I were to pick between Vanille Galante and Matin d’Orage, I would pick Matin d’Orage without doubt. It has that natural petally quality I adore in the Annick Goutal florals.
Entered! I have not started devising any rules yet for my draws, because I have not been doing them that frequently. However, I am sure that I will come up with rules sooner or later. For now, it is open to anyone. April 29, 2009 at 9:27am
Bois de Jasmin: Ben A, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 9:52am
Bois de Jasmin: Kess, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 9:52am
Bois de Jasmin: Karin, thank you. Juicy Couture is a very good fragrance, I do not wear it often, but whenever I do, I get lots of compliments. That is always a good thing. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 9:56am
Bois de Jasmin: Carter, thank you! Bandit is such a genius fragrance that I find it suitable for almost anytime and any occasion. I like even the tweaked version. Of course, it has so much character that it is impossible to deprive Bandit of its signature.
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:11am
Bois de Jasmin: Flora, I would not be able to be in a relationship with someone who did not like perfume (and I am sure that would not work the other way either!) He was not so willing to be a perfume model after Kourous (super animalic!) however he generally likes to know what I am interested in. : )
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:11am
Bois de Jasmin: Floridateach, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:12am
Bois de Jasmin: martha m, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:16am
Bois de Jasmin: Fabiana, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:16am
Bois de Jasmin: helenviolette, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:17am
Bois de Jasmin: Nina (Janine H), spasibo Vam! Rada chto Vam nravitsja. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:17am
Bois de Jasmin: Zeram1, thank you. Yes, these are the faves of the moment, it seems! Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:21am
Bois de Jasmin: ChantillyLace, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:22am
Bois de Jasmin: Zazie, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:22am
Bois de Jasmin: Yellowcedar, thank you, it is great to be back to posting. : ) Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:23am
Bois de Jasmin: Lys, Champaca Absolute is such a beautiful magnolia fragrance, truly special. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:23am
Bois de Jasmin: Heather B, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:24am
Bois de Jasmin: Attarine, thank you. Both are my favorites, but very different, of course! Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:25am
Bois de Jasmin: Marian, thank you very much for your kind words! April 29, 2009 at 10:26am
Bois de Jasmin: Dissed, greens, woods, iris and violet cover quite a bit as it is. But I am glad if I could inspire. : )
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:27am
Bois de Jasmin: Stella Maris, thank you! Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:27am
Bois de Jasmin: Hilary, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:27am
Bois de Jasmin: Suzanne, thank you so much. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:27am
Bois de Jasmin: Gretchen, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:28am
Bois de Jasmin: Rachel, I am so glad to know that you discovered Duel through me. : ) Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:28am
Bois de Jasmin: ScentRed, I myself have been wearing Annick Goutal Le Chevrefeuille often, especially last year. I probably almost finished a bottle of it, which is unusual for me.
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:30am
Bois de Jasmin: Rachaelg, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:31am
Bois de Jasmin: Lisa D, thank you. I also love making the lists and reading those of others. They are a lot of fun, and one discovers something new this way.
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:32am
Bois de Jasmin: Melissa, definitely try the new version of Miss Dior. It is different from the original, but I find it beautiful anyway.
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:35am
Bois de Jasmin: SSy, thank you. You are right, I did not even think about it at first, but it is a nice season for rites of passage. : )
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:42am
Bois de Jasmin: Flora, ah, thank you so much. : ) April 29, 2009 at 10:42am
Bois de Jasmin: Ines, Vent Vert is gorgeous, new and old!
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:42am
Bois de Jasmin: Svetlana, spasibo Vam za dobrye slova! April 29, 2009 at 10:43am
Bois de Jasmin: Nancy, thank you so much.
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:43am
Bois de Jasmin: Lora, I am glad to be back. : )
Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:43am
Bois de Jasmin: Dorothy, thank you, I am glad that you enjoyed that piece. April 29, 2009 at 10:44am
Bois de Jasmin: Carla, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:44am
Bois de Jasmin: Klara, thank you. Entered! April 29, 2009 at 10:44am
Bois de Jasmin: Laura, thank you. I’ve finally felt ready, I suppose. : )
xoxo
V. April 29, 2009 at 10:45am
KarenB: Super list. Fleur de Liane is a favourite – but Tom Ford’s Champaca is, I think, far inferior to Ormonde Jayne’s, which is more subtle and delicate. Wonderful site. June 3, 2009 at 12:59pm