The usual: talk about anything you like — the perfume you’re wearing today, the last scented body product you bought, whatever.
Or, ask a question about fragrance, then see if anyone else has asked a question that you can answer…
Note: top image is crocus [cropped] by kinbot at flickr; some rights reserved.
Happy weekend, all! AND Happy Spring Break! 😀
So, a gaggle of girlfriends and I (all teachers) have decided to head over to Vegas for much of the week. Anyone know any good perfume shopping while I’m over there? When I did a search, the only thing that popped up was Tous. Anyone like something a lot from that line?
Have a lovely day!
I’ve never been to Vegas, but I know they’re supposed to have good perfume shopping. The Guerlain boutique there carries many hard-to-find-in-the-USA rarities.
I will definitely be making a plan to go to Guerlain! So many on my sniff-list!
I just got back from Vegas. So, my suggestion: Hit Guerlain, it’s near Bottega Veneta, and Van Cleef and Arpels, both having good stuff to sample, but while in that area don’t let anyone talk you into thinking you have rosacea. Avoid at all costs the skin care sharks nearby. They will offer free samples. “Do Not Seek The Treasure!!” (Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?) THEN, after that, continue down the shopping area until you hit Barney’s. They have great salesmen. Tell them Mough sent you. They know me…or at least the gay men do. Lots of cool testing. Le Labo, Lutens, etc. After that, you can cross the street to go to the mall and hit Neiman Marcus. That covered ALL my needs. Oh, and the Wynn esplanade has two Chanel boutiques, and ready samples. Hermes is there, as well. All of this is with a 10 minute walk from each other. OH, and then you have Sephora, right down the street. HAVE FUN!!
Ha! You are amazing! I think you’ve just planned one afternoon for me. 🙂
Some of these I did not manage to revisit on my last trip to Vegas, so can’t swear they’re still there!
Acca Kappa store in the Venetian
Guerlain boutique, somewhere, can’t remember which casino but I think the Palazzo
NM & Saks in the mall near Treasure Island
Barneys
Also, nearly every luxury brand you can think of has a boutique somewhere — Chanel, Hermes, you name it. The shops at Caesar Palace & the Palazzo both worth a stroll.
Oh, and if it’s still there, Apothecary at the Wynn has Lafco stuff & Penhaligons / L’Artisan. Jo Malone is also at the Wynn, IIRC.
Oh, thank you for all the recommendations, Robin! Yay!
Robin,
FYI–No, Jo Malone is NOT at the Wynn anymore. To my chagrin. Believe me. Bummed me out. It left about a year ago? Maybe a tad more. Not sure…They weren’t getting enough business, probably because one could go to NM across the street, so the space went to some other (really boring and expensive) vendor.
Good to know, thanks!
All of the high end boutiques are great there because the massive number of people in and out make it less intimidating. Also, the SAs know it’s in their best interests to be polite to everyone – Joe Blow in yesterday’s clothes and flip flops may have just hit a jackpot. Chanel, Gucci, Guerlain,…I felt welcomed at all of them.
There are two Sephoras on the strip. I know that doesn’t sound terribly exciting, but the last time I was there they had some items that aren’t available at most stores. And don’t forget to check out the spas and gift shops in some of the bigger hotels. The gift shop in the Bellagio carried a full line of Tokyo Milk and had a 50% off sale on their line of spa products. I picked up a Chai Tea body scrub that is intoxicating.
Also, there’s a Vosges chocolate shop in Caesar’s Palace. I know it’s not perfume, but if there ever was an edible version of perfume this is it. They sell individual truffles there. They’re not cheap, but it’s nice to try some of their unique flavors without shelling out $$$ for a whole box. The ones with the candied lavender on top are still my favorite.
Have fun! The opening of the NCAA tournament is the best time to be there.
Lucy, thank you for the great info! I had suspected that the boutiques would be more approachable than usual. I’m happy to hear that has been your experience. I went through several boutiques when I was in Honolulu, and I was sorry that it felt so exclusive.
Have fun!
Thanks!
Have a great time! I’m trying to convince hubby that we might enjoy Vegas even though we don’t gamble but he is still unconvinced.
I don’t gamble either, but I’ve been going there regularly for almost 15 years. I love the energy. I enjoy touring the themed hotels, shopping, awesome restaurants/bars, and shows. It’s like Disney World for adults. Flight and room prices have gone up a bit, but it is still a good value vacation. I hope hubby will give it a try. The Vegas Strip really does have something for everyone.
I completely agree! I neither gamble NOR drink, and I expect there will be PLENTY for me to do! It’s excellent people-watching, and the casinos are such amazing creations, worth the ogle. We will be there for 4 days/3 nights and I’m sure I won’t run out of things to entertain myself with. 🙂
ALSO, we got tickets to a Cirque show and Blue Man Group. Very excited, as I’ve never seen either!
Yeah, I have to say, I had never really been interested in Vegas before but the promise of extensive and accessible perfume shopping is starting to sound tempting!
Cirque is fascinating. One of hubby’s friends used to be in Cirque. Those people are amazing and bodies should not be able to bend like that.
I’m beginning to think that I have so many options, my friends are gonna wonder where I wandered off to! I will try to bare this burden in stride, however! 😉
I’m sure you’ll put a brave face on it 😉
Don’t gamble either, but hubby and I went to Vegas about seven years ago. Great food! The highlight of the trip for me was ahelicopter ride into the Grand Canyon and a dinner there,
There is a Skins 6/2 Cosmetics in the Cosmopolitan hotel (by City Center) that has a fabulous selection of perfumes and candles, soaps, etc. I was there last time we were in Vegas and the SAs were helpful but very willing to let me wander and sniff. They had Serge Lutens, Santa Maria Novella, By Kilian, Diptyque, Tokyo Milk, lots of others I’m not remembering right now.
Fabulous! Thanks so much!
I had a really tough week recently.
On previous Friday I was re-taking the exam I failed and I’m still waiting for the results. I’m a piece of nerves because of that. The doctor said the results will be by the end of the week so they might still appear today or tomorrow (or later, previously the results were few days after the date he’s given us)
This week also a family tragedy struck upon us. Our beloved dog passed away on Tuesday. She was a family member for almost 15 years, we grew up together. Losing her was painful but our hearts are slowly finding peace. She’s in a Dog Heaven now, I believe.
Sample of SL La Fille de Berlin arrived yesterday, I’m testing it today and have mixed feelings from the very beginning.
Oh, I’m so sorry about your dog, that’s terribly hard.
Yes it is! Thank you. I cried like a little baby. I miss this little beauty under the table during dinner and her barking when the doorbell rang.
Oh Lucas. So sorry to hear about your dog. My dog did not fit under the table but he sure barked when we came home – I know what you mean. Hugs to you.
Our girl was a dachshund so she fit almost under every table possible. She was a sweetheart.
Thanks for a hug
Oh, I had a daschund as a child, and she was such a lovely little dog. My sympathies..
thanks
Lucas, I’m sorry to hear the news about your dog. I’ve always considered my pets to be family members, too, and I can understand your grief over her loss. Sending my sympathy your way —
Thank you! We miss her a lot, after all these years it was like she was with us since always. Every animal that is loved and loves you is a family member.
I’m really sorry to hear about your dog. Growing up my family always had dogs and cats that were a big part of the family too, and I remember how sad it is to say goodbye. Best wishes for the results of your exam too. Waiting can be one of the hardest parts, but I hope you aren’t too stressed out.
Animals deserve to be treated like family members, they teach us many valuable lessons and we might not know about it.
Waiting for the results is tough, hope it will be fine this time.
She was lucky to have a family that loved her so much. I’m very sorry for your loss.
And we were even more lucky to have her for so long.
Lucas, I am so very sorry for your loss. It is so hard to lose the unconditional love of a beloved four-legged family member. Sending you love and healing. Donna
Hugging her was always a good thing that made me forget about any problems and concerns.
Sorry to hear about your dog, Lucas.
Thank you for the sympathies.
I’m sorry about your dog. Losing a beloved pet can is as hard as losing a person. They are members of the family and the loss is very real. I still miss all the four-legged family members I have said goodbye to over the years, but it does get better with time.
I believe it does get better, she’s in heaven right know, all good things are there for her.
I’m so sorry about your dear daschund, Lucas. I believe in pet heaven much more strongly than I believe in people heaven- if anyone deserves it, it’s them.
They really deserve it with their unconditional love.
Dear Lucas, I’m so sorry for your loss. I’ve had to say goodbye to many geriatric animal companions. The oldest were a 17 1/2 year old dog and an 18 year old cat. Be content that your dog had a good life with you and your family, and that you and the dog were blessed to share such a wonderful inter-species friendship. I feel my animals who have passed on are still with me in spirit. Are you familiar with the Rainbow Bridge? It may bring you some comfort.
http://www.petloss.com/rainbowbridge.htm
I’m sad for losing her but then I remember all happy moments and I just know we gave her as luxurious life as we could. She was a happy ald loved dog.
Thank you for sharing a Rainbow Bridge story.
Peace of mind and condolences to you, Lucas– coming from many friends around the globe. We’re all behind you in this difficult time!
Thank you. I really appreciate the support from all of you!
Lucas, I am so sorry, my thoughts are with you. I lost my dog – also a dachshund or “dackel” as we say in German – more than 20 years ago by a terrible accident and I still can’t talk about this without crying.
Thanks for joining me in the sorrow.
I’m sorry to hear about your dog. I know how awful that feels.
My food chemistry professor introduced himself to our class by saying that he was the only student in his degree program who failed organic chemistry twice. Everyone has subjects where they excel and those where they don’t. I’m guessing that you have excellent results in other exams that will balance out this one. Everyone has an off-day.
I hope you’re right. Yes, I’ve got great scores at other exams but failed this one. Hope my result from re-take is fine
You know how I feel about dogs so I’m so sorry for your loss. I get all teary eyed myself when someone’s pet dies. I know how much it hurts.
Hope all goes well with that exam this time. I’m crossing my fingers for you.
We all know you’re a dog lover.
Thanks for keeping your fingers crossed.
Oh, Lucas, I’m sorry to hear about your dog, it’s a heartbreaking thing to go through but you’ll always have 15 years worth of wonderful memories.
Yes, the memories will always remain
Hi Lucasi, I’m so sorry about your dasch – I’m sure we are all hugging our pets a little tighter today. Best wishes.
Yeah, give your pets a hug from me.
Ah, I am just so sorry about your dog. My childhood pet, also a dog, died when I was in college and even though he’d had a really good life and his end came really quickly, no suffering, I just missed him a ton. For years after I would get weepy every time someone mentioned his name. (Actually kinda getting weepy now!) It’s so sad but still I think it’s really a beautiful thing, to love another creature like that, whether man or beast!
Their love is unconditional and forever, no matter what.
I will join in with the many others who’ve expressed sympathy for the loss of your family pet. It’s so very hard to lose a beloved family member like that and she sounds really wonderful. Even though I’m a cat person I sometimes think it is worse to lose dogs because they are often more “present” in the household (cats can tend to hide themselves away). I hope the many good memories of her will help ease your sadness over time.
thanks Calypso
Lucasai, I am so sorry about your sweet dog. Sending you lots of hugs.
Hugs are good now.
What a week, Lucas! I’ll watch for your review of SL Fille de Berlin. It did not capture my heart, but to me it has an unusual tea-like scent that is intriguing. I’ll be interested to read your take on it.
I don’t find it a full-sized review worthy but a Quick Sniffs mention for sure.
I didn’t get organized for the swap meet this week!! Ah well. I always psych myself anyway and assume no one wants what I have to trade.
I have so much new perfume to write about and it’s hard to prioritize time to write. I feel bad, because my husband and I closed our music blog last fall with the idea that doing so would allow me to refocus on fragrance writing, and it hasn’t happened. It reminds me of that recent Onion article “Find that thing you love to do, and then do it on the nights and weekends.”
Being a grownup is hard! 😛
Hey, there’s still time! Swapmeet doesn’t close until next Friday. But I know what you mean about trying to rearrange the schedule to do the things you want to do — something else always eats up that time.
This reminds me that Fine Fragrants was supposed to be on my not-so-comprehensive-after-all list of perfume blogs I read from last week’s poll!!!
Ari, thanks for noting BG’s blog. It looks good, and I hadn’t realized Brian Pera’s film was up until I saw the article there, and I watched it this evening.
oh, good, glad you got to watch the film! 🙂
aw, thanks Ari!
Breathesgelatin – just wanted to let you know that I just saw your name at Cafleurebon, looks like you’ve won something 🙂
YES! very exciting. Thanks for noticing. I saw it this time but one time I won something there and didn’t respond in time- they’re quite strict about their deadlines!
SOTD = Serge Lutens Five O’Clock Au Gingembre – nice scent but unremarkable, quite sheer and thin.
Yesterday – a very cold and crisp day, I wore Seville a l’Aube and it was wonderful! I got my bottle in October so I never got a chance to wear this “summer” fragrance while it was hot out. I wore it in the fall and it was super…and now in the winter it continued to work.
My question is – what perfume in your collection do you wear year-round?
Have a great weekend everyone…and Happy Swapping!
Hajusuuri, from my collection I wear Prada Amber Pour Homme and Infusion d’Homme year round. Also think my HdP 1725 can be worn in every season.
I really should sample my sample of HdP 1725!
I wear Sel Marin and Esprit du Tigre all year round. Also Tubereuse 40 and Ormonde Woman. They all seem to adapt beautifully to whatever the weather is doing.
I have Ormonde Woman and I should try it when it’s cold — I used it in the summer and several times in the Fall but in the warmer Fall days. I’m seeing a theme here…OJ Woman and SSS Forest Walk seem to be bundled together as almost interchangeable in a strange way.
Good question, and I realize as I think about it that there aren’t many that I wear in both warm and cold weather (we get extremes at both ends here). A few that do seem to work: my vintage Samsara, Vol de Nuit (although the heart blooms better in the heat), Caron Montaigne, SSS Forest Walk and Cuir de Russie. The last one is a bit of a cheat since I wear the parfum in the winter and the edt in hot weather. Voleur de Roses also seems to work all year long.
Oooh, I have to try Forest Walk when it gets warmer! It is great for both Fall and Winter.
Hajusuuri, I’ve been thinking the same about Seville a l’Aube. Another scent I tend to wear almost any time except very cold weather is TDC Osmanthus. Also, Guerlain Idylle Eau Sublime, a dewy rose, seems a summer scent, but I’ve found it has enough presence for winter, too, surprisingly.
Also, I forgot Miller Harris La Pluie and FM Le Parfum de Therese.
I have to try the FM Le Parfum de Therese – I have a sample!
Yesterday I wore Jalaine Silk to a college hockey tournament, something soft and quiet for a crowded space. The stranger next to me commented twice on how nice I smelled! My husband was then curious as to what I was wearing?! LOL I think I may wear it again tonight.
Nice!
I have a question. Periodically I will want to swap a perfume or cosmetic item and will attempt to swap on Makeup Alley. Whenever I go to the swap page I get “At this time, swap is only open to current swappers.” I have emailed their support to ask about this but never received a response. Any thoughts as to why I get this response or how I am able to get in to the swap if it is always closed to new swappers?
Thora- I have had this same response from them and also haven’t got an answer. I feel your frustration and how do you become a swapper if the swaps are always closed to you? It’s a puzzlement.
I am fairly new to perfume and since I think swapping is one good way of getting to try and know some fragrances, I also tried to enter swap forum on MUA, but every time I tried I have had the same message as you: only open to current swappers. I slso wrote to their support – and received no answer at all.
So sorry about the MUA thing. I’m not sure why the moderators haven’t at least responded to your question with some kind of standard answer. Not too long ago, something bad happened with swapping (maybe a big swaplifting issue but I never really heard anything official) and for some reason it’s closed to anyone who wasn’t a swapper before that. How the heck that would help matters, I don’t know. Many of us hope that the rule will change soon – swapping is one of the great things about mua and the more the merrier.
I think I’ve only ever had a couple of bad swaps (and no one every truly swaplifted me) out of a couple hundred. I think the best route is not to send something you can’t afford to lose. Most of the time, I not only gained some fun fragrances, I also gained a friend!
Ah, thanks for this! I’d had same question. That’s too bad but it’s nice to know there is a reason! Had been so mysterious.
Thanks so much for the information. I thought it may have been something I was doing wrong so I am glad to know it is not just me but frustrated to know that there is nothing I can do to change it. :-/
There were rumors at one time that they were going to get rid of the swap function — maybe that means they’ve finally done it. Other options are reddit and basenotes.
SOTD: Parfums de Rosine Une Folie de Rose. My favourite from this line, by far. It’s a bit Mitsouko-ish, I really like it.
Perhaps we’ve had discussions here before about how our preferences for what we eat relate to our scent preferences?
I love cardamom in perfume, but I also love it in my food. Ginger, cinnamon, cloves, pepper… ditto. Is parsley ever used as a perfume note?
All those super-sweet, candy-type fragrances don’t appeal to me and neither do similar desserts. I am insanely in love with Arquiste Anima Dulcis, which is chocolate (cocoa?) and chile pepper, and those ingredients appeal to my palate as well.
What say you?
Hi, Jonette!
I apologse if I’m misaken, but was it you who wanted to contact me regarding the Estonian langage? I sent you an e-mail, but as I haven’t received a reply, I’m afraid something went wrong. In any case, if it was you and you are still interested, my e-mail address is ykkinna at gmail dot com.
Oh, Annikky, I’m so sorry! I forgot! DUH! I still have time — the deadline is in several days. I will write to you tomorrow. THANK YOU so much!
I think there is a relationship between flavours we are drawn to, in order to eat, and in order to smell. The relationship seems complex though because sometimes people love certain foods to eat but hate the scent in perfume, and vice versa. For me, this is only true of pear, and, I actually prefer the scent and don’t like the taste too much!
But, in line with what you say, I love most fruit, and I enjoy fruity scents. I also love carrots and tend to enjoy the rooty aspect of iris. The same thing for clove and coriander…
Love this question! You know, I got into perfume around the same time I stopped eating gluten, and have been wondering–is that why I am so enthralled with bread notes in perfume?? Wish I’d started perfume sooner so I could compare whether what I’m eating affects what I like to smell!
I think the top note in DSH Tubereuse smells like fresh parsley — very green and sharp and fresh — but it’s not listed in the notes, maybe just be me! There’s a perfume called The Unicorn Spell which smells exactly like green beans – it’s almost disconcerting 🙂
Egabbert, thanks for letting me know about the the DSH perfume. I’ll have to try it.
I tried The Unicorn Spell and my impression of it was enchilada sauce.
I’ve been sort of laying low on here for the past year and watching from the sidelines, but now I have a rather specific question I think-hope-someone may have the answer to.
I’m going to a tropical region in Africa for several months and I have been advised again bringing any scented products as they may attract malaria-carrying mosquitos. Obviously I don’t want to play around with that, but I’m wondering if this advice is sort of generalized, lumping together all scented products as floral/sweet perfumes? Wouldn’t smoke-y perfumes, say some Lonestar, maybe have the opposite effect of repelling them as with smoke? I may be being ridiculous and must reconcile myself to a scentless several months…
I have no experience nor expertise, but I’m thinking you’re best off going unscented. Even if a fragrance smells smoky, there’s no telling what the actual raw material or chemical was that was used to get it that way. Many, many scents list notes that don’t necessarily correspond with the ingredients. Plus, all animals have different smelling abilities and a mosquito may be attracted to something you can’t even detect. I hope for you that this tropical region is full of lush plants and flowers to permeate the air so that you don’t miss perfume. Have fun on your trip!
Thanks Lucy–you make a great point. Damn, was looking for consent to spray irresponsibly! I probably wouldn’t want to ruin any beloved perfume with association with the DEET I’ll inevitably be layering myself in anyway. And you’re right-I should probably turn my nose’s full attention to all the new scents I’ll be experiencing around me.
I have a diplomat friend who lived in Africa for a considerable time. I’ll email her tomorrow. If she answers, I’ll post the info here, even if it’s after the weekend or later in the week. Stay tuned!
Meg, I hope our commenters from the African continent will see your post and reply, but here’s my two cents after having spent all of three weeks in South Africa in both malarial and non-malarial areas. Having had a friend who once came down with the worst kind of malaria (the cerebral kind), I took no chances. During the time I was in the malarial area I took malaria meds, covered up at dawn and dusk, and wore no scent.
I live in South Africa but I’m a city girl so I don’t know any more than what others have said. I read about a few alternative mosquito repellants – one made by Demeter – over here:
http://www.wellontheroad.com/illnesses/malaria3.html
As stated on the page, none of these are as effective as those that contain DEET. Really, I don’t think its worth taking the chance. Malaria is a really frightening disease…
Maybe think of it as an olfactory detox – a way of recalibrating your nose!
Meg, I would definitely take DEET along (and don’t forget plenty of sunscreen). You’ll need to take antimalarial tablets. If you are going with an organization, get their advice, and also check the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, which has great information for travellers, too. Bednets are also an important preventive measure.
For a few months, some decants might be more useful than bottles. Unfortunately, some airports and airlines have problems with things going missing from checked baggage, so don’t take anything irreplaceable.
Don’t worry: I’m sure this trip will be such an amazing experience, and that you won’t be bored even if you go without perfume. Also, it’s fun checking duty free shops at airports for something new.
I meant to say probably, i.e., you’ll probably need to take antimalarial tablets. Definitely seek guidance and follow what’s recommended for the specific area.
My experience is with SEAsian mosquitos, but my advice would be not to take any chances. The insects are attracted to smells – even if you think it is relatively harmless.
I’m not sure if it is as effective as DEET but if you are looking for a natural repellant, I have found citronella oil very effective. And safe for children (if that is a consideration).
Huh, when I went to Ghana last summer I never received that advice. I was there for two weeks ands wore Fracas the entire time. As long as you wear very strong bugspray (I was told 30% or hiher, I believe), you should be fine.
Does anyone have any information about the new Shalimar Ode a la Vanille sur la route de (du?) Mexique? It will be released in mid-April according to Guerlain.
I’ve been immersed in work for a few weeks and have therefore rationed my perfume blog time, but I really must report today. Due to several coincidences (stuff arriving too late, stuff arriving surprisingly quickly), my sample orders have all made a coordinated appearance.
Consequently, I now have 10 samples from First in Fragrance, 8 generous ones from TPC plus 11 Amouages and the ENTIRE ELdO line-up from Escentual. Haven’t even started on the Amouages and ELdOs and have only briefly tested everything else, but early favourites are two Arquistes – Boutonniere and Flor y Canto (I see a dangerous pattern emerging here, I also adore Aleksandr and these are the only ones I have tried), Vero Profumo Kiki and Mito and also Jolie Madame and Cuir de Lancome – I need to come back to the last two when I’m not so desperate for spring. I am still trying to figure out Une Voix Noire and am so far underwhelmed by 1932.
I am enjoying myself very much, as long as I don’t look out of the window – it is snowing again. So I envy those of you who have spring weather already and sympathise with the ones who don’t.
I also found 1932 rather underwhelming!
Thirding. It really did not work for me, to the point where it almost smelled like it was from a different line. Alas.
It smells nice enough to me, just so indistinct and faint and ultimately, unneccessary. As many have said, I’d rather wear La Pausa for iris and Rue Cambon if I want something more complex. And in the category of non-offensive florals, I find Beige a much better choice. It comes down to the context and expectations, of course – I just expect something more (or at least new! If it actually had been a jasmine, I would probably be more forgiving) from Chanel, especially in a line that includes so many real stunners. In a way, a feel a bit like I did with Coco Noir: not a bad scent, really, but it could have been so much better…
What a wealth of samples you have! Keep reporting back to us. I keep hearing (reading) good things about those Arquistes, but haven’t tried them. You’re tempting me… 😉
Latitude-wise I’m way farther south than you, and we’re supposed to get snow here the next two days! We’re running about 30 degrees below normal. Ugh!!
My nose isn’t as experienced as yours, so I’m definitely more impressionable. Still, I find the line very refined and considered, but not in an aloof way. The ones I’ve tried are very easy to wear for me, despite the polish. Bottom line – if an opportunity presents itself, do give them a try!
Last weekend I was all bent out of shape because my stupid doctor had me thinking I had something very wrong with me. I had self diagnosed myself but he firmly disagreed with me. After labs and an ultrasound we found out I was right after all. So he looked at my list of symptoms and said “gee, you really must be feeling awful. I have no idea why or what to do for you though”. That was helpful. So I’m done with him and my PCP and will be going to a new doctor in April.
I’m also thinking its time to change vets as well. The one I go to is the guy that bought the practice of the vet I used to work for. I figured I would take the pups there and see how he was but with Greta’s UTI issues he’s been a bit of a jerk. I’m fed up with all these doctors this week and I’m not putting up with their nonsense anymore.
In an effort to cheer myself up I bought the ELDO coffret. Of course the first thing I tried was Secretions Magnifique. Honestly, I’ve smelled worse things. I can’t say after the first try that it’s something I want to smell like but it didn’t make me physically ill either.
Hi Poodle..I’m glad it turned out you were right and hopefully it was a less onerous “diagnosis”. With healthcare costs going up, it is too bad that quality does not move in the same direction!
Secretions Magnifique – you are indeed brave!
Thankfully I’m in good shape for the shape I’m in. Being a woman of a certain age has it’s issues though.
When it comes to your health, always trust your instincts. Doctors may know diseases and viruses, but no one knows your body like you do.
So true. You have to trust your gut sometimes.
I totally agree with this too. Very sorry to hear that something did turn out to be amiss but for that reason even more glad you advocated for yourself. Really hoping the next doctor will be able to help you.
Hi Poodle,
How very wise of you to advocate for your body and look for a new doctor. I had a doctor who insisted that my cysts were going to develop into breast cancer. He was freaking me out so I found another doctor.
Great idea to get yourself a perfume treat after that experience.
I think it’s really important to have a doctor that’s on the same page as you. Mine were just not listening to a thing I said.
Hi there! How has Greta been doing? And, I think ELDO is great for some light entertainment too. I know they are a ‘serious’ brand in some respects – but at least they are fun as well:)
She’s on another antibiotic for 14 days. Hopefully this one will do the trick.
So brave with Secretions Magnifiques! Hopefully some of the others will do more to make you feel better! 🙂
Hi Poodle! I am also a poodle lover! My girl is 12, she is black and white, her name is Paisley Sparkle. I look forward to reading about your poodles in these offtopic posts.
🙂
Such a common thing these days…hope you are on the path to getting better.
Poodle, good for you for holding the line on what’s best for yourself and for your pups.
That coffret sounds highly entertaining!
I’m fed up with doctors EVERY week 🙂 A good one is hard to find (at least over here!) I hate turning into a doctor-hopper, but it looks like that’s what’s sometimes necessary. Always be pro-active about your own health (and that of your pets). Wishing you better days, Poodle.
Hugs!
Hi Meg! How exciting…which country in Africa? I would first check which areas in the country are listed specifically as malaria infested because it could be in isolated parts. The most important thing is to have all your required immunizations, cipro medication available and your mosquito net. I spent three months in Kampala, Uganda as a student and I found that most advice I received before leaving the states was overgeneralized. You will need to buy body products eventually while there so you will not be able to escape scent completely. I think a little scent (that you adjust for the weather) would help with the homesickness and give you an ocassion pick me up even if you just spritz in the air. Also you could just scent a hankerchief (handy if you ever decide to take transportation without strong airconditioning!). Scented talcum powder does double duty too to keep you comfortable. I ended up giving up alot of stuff away to my African friends before I left and scented soaps, lotions, powders were much appreciated since imported brands are expensive. I also underestimated the different pace of life there so bring lots of things for entertainment such as paperbacks, cards, journal and lots of batteries. And pictures of your family and home to show to new friends. Im sure you will have a very memorable trip!
Hi Poodletwins, I found your comment down here. Thank you for the advice! I am actually going to Jinja, Uganda on an internship, so pretty close by and possibly very similiar conditions to what you experienced! Definitely need to make some difficult decisions as to what books to bring. I was so hoping to be able to bring a bit of some perfume too. Maybe I’ll bring a little decant and asess when there.
Poodletwins, do you have poodle twins? I have a thing for poodles.
Poodles. My second passion.
Today I’m testing Nuit de Noel. WOW. There is this point early on in it’s progression on my skin where up close it smells ummmmm suspiciously like urine (and I’m in the process of toilet training a toddler! This is something I know about at the moment!!) but from a distance smells exquisite which I find funny. And the dry down. Wow. So very very beautiful.
Also I finished my bottle of En Passant. I don’t think I’ll buy another but it does leave a hole in my fragrance collection. I’m on the look out for something really pretty…
Have you smelled After My Own Heart yet? Another very beautiful lilac scent and happily at a much lower price than En Passant!
(Meanwhile very much agreed, Nuit de Noel is really something.)
Best of luck with the toilet training. My daughter has been trained for about 6 months, and it really was a massive undertaking. The worst is when they’ve got it down for a week or two at a time, and then all of a sudden start backsliding for no apparent reason. Sending you best wishes for your patience reserves to remain steady!
I have started toilet training with my daughter too, without much success at the moment I must say. She is almost 18 months old, some people say it’s too early… I also crave something pretty at the moment, so I found a bottle of Rochas Absolu Intense in an online store, and also my beloved Versace Blonde in extrait has arrived couple of days ago! Enjoying both very much, lush tuberose, figs and gardenia.
I do NOT miss those days — good luck to you!
Hello lovely fragrants! Yesterday was my 2?th wedding anniversary! Yeah, but really?! I can’t believe that my husband and I have been married for sooo loooong! More than half my life, in fact (looking amused). Anyhow, we had a lovely celebration with our daughter and her friend making dinner for us. Such lovely girls <3
BTW, I wore Fracas for the celebration and today I'm in Datura Noir.
Enjoy the weekend wherever you are 😉
Congratulations!
Yes, congratulations! And many, many more happy years. You smell terrific too!
Happy anniversary!
Congratulations! So lovely. 🙂
Thank you! 🙂
What an accomplishment — more congrats!
Adding my congratulations, Lady M — I’m a sucker for a happy relationship story!
Congratulations and many many more to come!
Congratulations! I wish you many more happy years together.
I’m feeling a bit down in the dumps today thinking about the shipping restrictions on Sonoma Scent Studio alcohol-based perfumes. So I cheered myself up with a lavish application of one of Laurie’s discontinued gems from the past, Femme Jolie: plummy violetty fruit, spices, cedar. Really glad I bought a back up bottle!
Oh I’m sad about this too! I only just caught up with this development when, after reading about the new sandalwood one, I thought I’d get a sample of that and buy a small bottle of Jour Ensoleille which has really grown on me but of course discovered that it wouldn’t be possible to have things shipped to Australia.
Not unless you go through some very complex processes, no. I’m in Australia too. Tauer is the same.
Tauer as well. Oh no. Now I’m really feeling despondent. I’ve nearly finished my second sample of Une Rose Vermeille and am craving more. I was thinking I could probably even commit to a full bottle.
Yep, bummed by this too – I had bought a couple bottles and had my eye on a 3rd, when she stopped shipping to the UK. Incidentally I had no issues with the first two arriving – not even customs checked or charged.
I’ve never had anything customs checked or charged in the three years or so that I have been buying online. I had a package opened by quarantine once tho’. It was resealed carefully with an explanatory note.
I know how you feel. I had just decided I needed a FB to replace my Forest Walk travel spray, when this happened… Fortunately, I have located a relative living in US and hope she will be willing to help. Laurie is one of those perfumers I really WANT to support – the scents are exquisite and her attitude admirable. Sometimes I do a mental exercise when contemplating a expensive FB – how many SSS fragrances would I get for the same amount of money? Not that I never buy expensive stuff, I do, but this exercise helps me to have some perspective.
I do a similar exercise with Parfums de Nicolai. In fact, I’m probably going to buy one of her FBs soon, in case she decides to restrict her shipping as well!
Hi everyone,
Anyone else want the season to change soon? We still have snow on the ground here in New England and it’s getting a bit old.
Today I’m trying to will Spring into existance by taking a literal bath in Pamplelune. I’m looking for some more warm weather perfumes and I’m open to any helpful suggestions you might have. I like citrus/spice and vetiver. Jasmine also, but not rose.
I’ve bought a couple of scents on line lately and I’m not sure that they are the real thing. The bottles look authentic, but the juice doesn’t quite do it. Has anyone else had this experience?
From one New Englander to another I totally sympathize with you. This cold weather is just too much. Wake me when it’s over.
Snow flurries this week. Ack! I’ve been glued to Househunters Hawaii on HGTV. So sad…
I’v had my eye on Pampelune for some time but now we are heading towards Autumn and so I may put off the purchase a little longer….
For the hottest hottest weather I like Chritalle eau Verte, a nicely rounded lemon scent. I also find the Hermes un Jardin series to be cooling and for warm sunny days a fig frag like Philosykos is nice.
Another Aqua Allegoria I like in warm weather is Herba Fresca.
Thanks for the great warm weather scent suggestions. I love Herba fresca and will have t resniff the Hermes jardin line when I get a chance. I might splash out and get a bottle of pamplemouse rose. It would be nice to find a summer frag that has some spice to it, but is also kind of girlie floral.
That’s interesting…I have always considered my Pamplelune to be a winter scent. I will have to try it next summer. I was also trying to will in the warmer weather, so my SOTD is Parfums Del Rae Debut. It’s pretty, but isn’t working with the heavy sweater and boots I’m getting ready to put on to go out to dinner.
Sorry about your online experience. You never really know what you’re getting until you spray it.
Not just New England…we got 8 inches in Arkansas on Thursday, and it’s still here. Unlike you, though, I am thrilled! It’ll be hittin’ a hundred before too long, and I’m cherishing the coolness.
Only 8 inches? That’s just a dusting. 😉
We’ve had over 100 inches of snow this winter according to the news.
Ditto on the weather ’round here (in MA). We had a neighborhood egg hunt at our house today, and the kids had a blast but they all had to wear mittens, boots, and SNOWPANTS so that they could properly tromp around in the snow that’s still covering everything! SOTD was Jungle Elephant. I like it, but it never seems to quite fit my mood, whereas some perfumes (my beloved no. 19, e.g.) seem to be perfect always: happy, sad, cool weather, hot weather.
My two favorites for warm/hot weather are Guerlain AA Mandarine Basilic and Hermes Un Jardin en Mediterranee. Can’t wait to bring them out.
My SOTD today was also Jungle Elephant. I find it always lifts my mood. It gives me a Christmasy-feeling — the kind of magic that surrounded childhood Christmases sixty years ago!
I’ll have to try Jungle Elephant. It keeps getting mentioned and seems kind of special. I had a huge stash of Chanel 19 at one point. I was obsessed with it and bought vintage EDP, EDT, and a 2 ounce vintage parfum. One day I decided I didn’t like it anymore and sold it all on ebay. I so regret doing that.
Hello fragrant folks!
I haven’t commented for a while – overwhelmed by work, then I get behind on reading NST posts – but I have now caught up a bit 🙂
Lucas, we have never chatted, but I always love following your comments and insights. Very sorry about your doggy. Something that the love of pets and the love of perfume has in common is: when people don’t get it, they just don’t get it. (But we do!).
Jonette – re yr parsley question: I wonder if Demeter has a parsley? I think that would smell great!
Meg – your malaria question: the following are natural mosquito repellants: Citronella Oil, Lemongrass Oil, Geranium Oil, Verbena, Lavender – i.e. citrus and astringent smells. So it may be safe (and appropriate to wear citruses and vetivers), e.g. O de Lancome, any Eay de Cologne (e.g. Chanel’s from the LE line) or any of the Vetivers Robin likes so much.
Thanks, Ida, I’ll have to look at what Demeter has on offer.
Hajusuuri – I like Diorella both when it is sweltering and when it is cold – it seems to lift out a different facet for each of a range of weather moods
Thank you. Ida. I have never smelled Diorella! I understand that this had probably been reformulated over the years but since I never smelled the original…no harm done.
My perfume related question is: I often wonder why people don;t comment more often on how nice I smell (blushing). Could I be applying too little? Do people not notice? Do they find the subject too intimate? Of course occasionally, one does get a comment – but people don;t tend to compliment on smells as they do on nice jewelry or a pretty dress?
Why do you think that is?
I’m betting they assume it’s too intimate. I’ve found that people who previously wouldn’t comment on it are full of opinions once I’ve broached the subject. Especially men–it’s sort of adorable, frequently my male friends (who clearly have nothing in common with the fragrance-savvy men on NST!) have gotten this alarmed look the first time I ask them what they think of something, but once they understand it’s a permissible topic for casual conversation, they’re champs with the opinions on fragrance.
That said, it can’t hurt to ask a friend if you’re wearing enough perfume for it be noticeable! (For that matter it may be a good way to let people know you won’t feel like mentioning it is too forward!)
Thanks CH – I will make my interest known more broadly and also ask a close friend if I’m wearing enough
It may be that you are under-applying, but if you can detect your own sillage that may be all you need to stay happy. I have a terrible fear of annoying my office colleagues with my perfume so I tend to apply lightly. And of course I wear something different every day so hopefully if I’m wearing something that someone finds hateful, they won’t smell it more than once a fortnight!
But yes, on the whole I think people don’t like to comment. It depends maybe on your culture. I’m in Australia and I almost never get a comment on my perfume, and if I compliment someone else, I can see immediately that they are surprised (and flattered too, of course). Perhaps Australians have inherited a kind of British reserve on these matters. My impression from reading perfume blogs, which are often American, is that more people wear perfume in the US and it is more common to discuss it openly.
If you ever run into me, I will probably tell you. I always tell people and I ask them what they are wearing. Even if my eyes are burning because they just showered in it getting into the elevator. Heee
I am exactly the same. I teach middle school, and my girls might smell like cotton candy and cheap floral room deodorizer, and I will *still* compliment them! I just like that folks take the time to be fragrant, even if it isn’t my cup of tea!
Ida, I live in South Africa and never get any comments about my perfume. It may be in part that my skin tamps down my fragrance, but even when I spritz on clothes, it doesn’t elicit comments, but just allows me to smell it for longer! I have one friend who is able to detect scent a lot better than others and who can give me ‘like’ or ‘don’t like’ feedback.
I too have noticed that people are very surprised when one mentions their scent. My feeling is that most people here are not very aware of scent, or of scent as a conversation topic…
Ooh yes this is a good point too. I almost never noticed people’s fragrance before I fell down the rabbit hole, as we say. Now I find I notice things on people much more, plus I’ll smell things at fragrance counters and realize they remind me of this or that person, which must mean I previously detected it, but it almost never happened at a conscious level!
Recently I bought a FB of Histoires de Parfumes 1740 from Luckyscent and got some nice samples from the line, among them Ambrarem, which I totally loved. I then followed that up with a decent sized sample spray bottle from a decanter and it came today so that’s been my SOTD. I have a horrible cold that won’t seem to relent and so I am spraying extra amounts to be able to smell myself and add a little something nice to the home environment. We have spring in full swing and I suspect that oak pollen is part of my problem. Earlier in the week I bought a lot of herbs to put into the pots on my kitchen porch. Once my smeller is back in order I hope to be able to enjoy the ambience out there. I have two kinds of oregano, and of basil, and two kinds of lavender, plus rosemary and cilantro.
Hope you feel better soon Calypso!
What is a FB?
Full Bottle
Thanks for the well wishes!
Allergy season here too! Yuck. Hope you feel better and can enjoy your porch soon–that sounds SO lovely.
I recently got to sample Histoires 1969 and really liked it! I’m going to have to try it again before deciding whether it’s fb worthy.
Feel better!
New to this blog, so just saying hi! My friend sent me about 30 sample bottles of various perfumes for Christmas and it got me started on a CRAZE.
I have always favored Shalimar, it just always works, but since she sent me those, I went crazy and now I am out of control with wanting to read and consume everything I can about perfume.
From what I can gather, so far I definitely favor the orientals and gourmands. Heehee.
Anyway, right now, I love Candy from Prada and I don’t care what anyone else thinks.
Oh yeah, I like Katie Puckrick Smells. She is feeding this new addiction.
Hi and welcome! I love Prada Candy too, and agree — don’t worry if others don’t love what you do.
Welcome! Totally know what you mean about going on the fragrance blitz. Super fun. And I think you’ll find most everyone here shares Robin’s sense of being fully in favor of liking what you like! … though also, my impression is that Prada Candy is reasonably well-regarded; you probably won’t get any looks askance even from the stray snob 😉
I started off liking orientals and gourmands, and at some point thought I may have graduated to the (rumoured) sophistication of the chypre and (what I though of as the more) mature taste for bitter-ish galbanum and dry-ish vetiver. Now I seem right back where I started – the gorgeous oriental, which is hopefully slightly edible as well;)
Merlin, I could have written that! We must be scent twins!
I bought Tuscany Per Donna, EL, one of my all time faves.
Omega, I’m curious about how Tuscany per Donna compares to Fendi’s Theorema. Can you help?…
I love Tuscany per Donna. Congrats!
Annemarie, I live half in South Africa and half in Kenya, so it may be that same British reserve. I do see also that people feel very surprised (and flattered) when I comment on their perfume – and like CH said, it may be just about more consciously cultivating an awareness in others. Not that I am hoping for compliments 🙂 – it’s just that my perfume of the day is (to me) usually a much more important mater than anything else I may be wearing, yet ppl would comment a bout other stuff.
My brother is coming over from England in a week and has offered to bring me a perfume! I have a list of perfumes I like, most which I can’t buy where I live, but all of a sudden I’m feeling uncertain about all of them. And if I’m not certain it may be best to just decline. It would be a good exercise in self control!
The perfumes on my short list are 1) Bottega Venta: very pleasing, soft, sophisticated and warm. It’s a very comfortable fragrance but I’m not sure I adore it – or that it touches me very deeply.
2) Soir de Lune: I’v been vacillating over this one for years, also sophisticated, but with a laid back glamour – a billionaire on holiday. This may be my favourite (obvious) chypre, but I’m not a big chypre fan and can’t imagine I’d wear it very often.
The next two are Tauers – so not cheap!
3) Le Maroc Pour Elle: I disliked this the first time I tried it, but have just tried it again and am now finding it quite fantastical. My impression (notes aside) is of a rubbery floral, somehow rather surreal – it is reminding me of the forest and oversized brilliantly-coloured latex flowers in Burton’s Alice in Wonderland. Right now it strikes me as a masterpiece – but will the impression last?
And, 4) L’air du desert: austere, profound and also deeply comforting. I feel like I can smell solid rock in it. What draws me to it, however, is the same thing that gives me a pause. There is a kind of elemental simplicity to it and sometimes I find that too much of a monotone. I find the stillness there, but not the dance…
Any advice?
If it were me, I’d regret the self control later.
Two ways to go:
1. Get the BV, since it’s the only 1 of the 4 you aren’t worried about not being able to wear it often.
2. Strike the BV off, since it’s the only 1 of the 4 you have no strong feelings about, in which case, if it were me I’d get one of the Tauers, probably the L’Air because “profound and deeply comforting” sounds more like a sure thing than the way you describe Le Maroc.
Ha, I wasn’t any help, was I?
Actually that is a big help!
No strong feelings is a good reason to desist because I have plenty perfume to wear and don’t really need another just because it would be easy wear.
L’air does sound like a sure thing and it is the way I am leaning –
But, oh oh. I just spoke to my brother who says he will get it for me if I want…but he thinks (being a muggle) that spending so much on a frag, when I already have so many is totally nuts. In an effort to dissuade me he has offered me a KINDLE instead.
According to him the price is almost on a par…
The Kindle Fire? I do love my Kindle Fire. That is very tempting, and if he is treating in any case, the extra bonus is that he will feel better about buying it.
Yes, that is true. I just looked at the kindles and I think I would just go for the Kindle PaperWhite which is the easiest on the eyes for prolonged reading. I don’t need a tablet as I have a MacBook air that I am happy to use for everything. I have the kindle programme on it, but don’t use it as I can’t concentrate well on long pieces of text using a computer screen.
I’ve wanted the Paperwhite too, hear it’s a great device. I do like being able to toss the Kindle in my purse and carry around my reading, although I still like “real” books too. My library also lends Kindle books, which is nice.
The library in my area has just declined horribly over the years. There are very few new books; which would be ok, since I am partial to older classics, except that the old books aren’t repaired either… The last time I was there, about two years back, I asked about Anne Karenina and they didn’t have it anymore.
Dying laughing. BRILLIANT use of muggle. Spot on.
Agree. Going to steal that usage!!
Merlin, I agree it’s a dilemma, but what a great dilemma to have! FWIW, I second Robin’s advice. (Since I’m a fool for LDDM, I’d go with that one but that’s just me…)
FearsMice – yes, it is one of those Wonderful Dilemmas:)
I think I would go for LADDM, but with a kindle in the offer – uh –
Actually, I have zero interest in technology or gadgets and I’m not that excited BUT I tend to carry several books around with me most of the time and that can get quite heavy. Also, I am tired of looking for more space to keep additional books. I have to admit – the Kindle would be a good idea!
Oohh, he really upped the ante, didn’t he! I might have to go for the Kindle in that case, too…
Hope you love your choice, whatever it may be!
Yes, upping the ante is exactly what he did!
Oh gosh I’m useless. I totally know what you mean with the way it suddenly becomes impossible to decide–especially when it’s a rather expensive purchase, it can be paralyzing to decide which is really the best investment! At that stage of the debate I have to just remind myself they’re all lovely choices (and yours really are!), and I’d really enjoy any one of them! Maybe taking the pressure off yourself to pick The Best One will help?
Yes, isn’t it funny the way all of a sudden it becomes impossible to choose! And you are right: its not like there are three bad decisions and one that is right…
Perhaps just think of it as getting one now and others you’ll add to your collection later? Rather than yes to one and no to the others. Or even for the Kindle!
An e-book reader is amazing for travel. Sony readers are supposedly the best for public library ebook collections.
Having said that, my vote is for Soir de Lune. If you’ve been thinking about it for years that says something, and it sounds as if you might not have many chypres in your collection. Get to know that billionaire in blue jeans…
‘Millionaire in blue jeans’…I like the way you think! I have two chypres: Halston for Women (not vintage), which I hardly ever wear, and Tauer’s Une Rose Chypre which I wear when I want something restrained, subtle and refined but also satisfying on a personal level. It strikes me as quite a formal scent – so maybe Soir de Lune would be nice when I am pretending to be ‘upper crust’ on a casual day!
For l’air du desert no pretending is required at all: It is an I-want-only-the-absolute-truth scent. Now that I think about it – l’air goes against all my values!
My first thought when I read your post was this: “I wonder if I can make another trip to South Africa by telling my husband I need to make a perfume delivery?” Probably not. 🙁
I’m partial to LADDM; there’s something in it that makes me stand straighter and walk taller. It’s a beauty.
I have a 2ndG Kindle and a 1stG Kindle Fire; love them both. Which is surprising because before I got my first Kindle I couldn’t imagine reading a book that way. But I love being able to toss my Kindle in my purse and have access to hundreds of books wherever I go.
I suspect I may just be serving as an alibi for you to go on safari! But thats ok, i would cover any time for a perfumista friend:) lol
Yes, the accessibility of so many books without the weight is what makes the kindle so darn attractive. i think the e-paper ink is something I really want so I’m not fired up about the fire
Uh oh, you may have spawned a lemming–after reading your description I had to revisit Soir de Lune (which I’d only smelled on paper previously) when I passed Bloomie’s this afternoon. WOW! That knocked my socks off. Ordinarily I am not much for chypres either but you are so spot-on about the laid-back glamour. A stunner–I won’t even name what I put on my other wrist, so badly does it wilt in comparison!
…yeah ok this doesn’t help with your problem at all, but thanks for tipping me off to it! 🙂
An anyone reccomend any flat out pretty but light perfumes? My SOTD is Songes which I adore but it’s way too big for work
Some people dislike the white-muskish dry down, but I very much like Baiser Vole. It has a clear crystalline quality to it.
Have you smelled the Ormonde Jayne line? A number of them share notes with Songes but many of the OJs are quite light. Frangipani especially comes to mind but also Sampaquita, Tiare, Osmanthus… maybe worth getting the discovery kit if you haven’t already!
Alternatively, 28 La Pausa comes to mind. But only if you like iris!
My brother is announcing a run for political office at a press conference today. I was trying to figure out what my SOTD should be, as I will be there with him. At first, I thought Etat Libre d’Orange’s Secretions Magnifiques would be fitting for a political campaign, but since he’s my brother, I went with their Je suis un Homme instead!
On another note, I am really tired of winter, and would love for spring to arrive! But looks like we have to get through another snowstorm first!
How cool, good luck to him!!
Why thank you! Yes, it will be quite an exciting time.
Thinking of my mother this morning. She has worn Chanel No. 5 my whole life and that smell will always be associated with her. She has tried other scents but always goes back to No. 5.
I would love to have that same kind of signature scent. I am 28 and have been reading NST for about 5 years but never felt like I had enough money to buy decants or try many different perfumes. I am finally ready to try to learn more and slowly break into this world.
This week, I ordered my first samples/decants from The Perfumed Court and I am so excited. I bought a set of several different Hermes, which seemed like a nice gateway. I have sampled Kelly Caleche at Sephora and never loved it but wanted to try it on my skin. I also bought samples of Prada Candy and Bottega Veneta Eau Legere. I wear Infusion d’Iris nearly exclusively so thought maybe I’d like Candy as well. Eau Legere sounded so lovely from the recent NST review.
I love, love Id’I, but it stays so close to my skin that I have to reapply throughout the day. I would love to find a signature scent that has more umph. Does anyone have any suggestion for me to try?
Erin,
You sound like a perfect candidate for the Monday Mail. I see a link at the bottom of this page. Why don’t you apply? Good luck!
Donna
I don’t think I am yet knowledgable enough to be considered for Monday Mail. I know only very generally what I like and dislike, and don’t know much about notes. Maybe one day I’ll get some more concrete knowledge under my belt and will apply! Thanks for the idea!
Robin could speak this better than I, but often there’s a waiting list–you could add your name now and by the time it’s your turn in a couple weeks or months, you may have a lot more references to add! That definitely is how it went for me.
But also, the things you mention already will give people some good stuff to work with, I think! Have you smelled Id’I Absolue, for instance? If you’re near a Sephora, you may also be near a department store where you could test it (my Nordstrom’s has it.) Also, Chanel No. 19 Poudré reminds me a lot of Id’I, and can likewise often be found in department stores. Maybe a little harder to find but worth seeking out since you like iris–Acqua di Parma’s Iris Nobile. It seems to be the favorite from that line among fragrance devotees, although I will admit (perhaps blasphemously) that I prefer the subsequent Iris Nobile Sublime version.
That’s right. Waiting list right now is about 7 weeks. Erin, I think you’d be fine.
Also, have you tried the Infusion d’Iris Absolue? Might be just what you’re looking for.
Erin, This might sound like a pedestrian choice, but try Musc Bleu – you can get a sample from Lucky Scent. I find I am wrist-to-nose all day with that one. I also like Amouage Dia in the solid. The case is pretty and old school weighty. I apply it all day and it might remind you of a lighter, more ethereal #5.
And, just jump in with questions. Enjoy being new!
Remember, there are no stupid questions, only stupid flankers.
Hahaha that’s a good one 🙂
That really should be the tag line for this blog.
Thanks so much for the suggestions, everyone! Juice, I ordered samples of Musc Bleu and Dia and a few more. Don’t worry – nothing sounds pedestrian to me! I am new and so completely openminded.
I have not weighed in lately, choosing instead to check in on Sundays to enjoy where this thread takes itself. A lot of life happening for you all this week. Beloved pets, inclement weather, anticipated travel, memories. I appreciate you all.
This week was an exciting one for me. I received StoryCorps training in order to collect stories from military veterans on hospice service. What a wonderful honor, and privilege. I needed a new challenge and this was it!
It is fully spring here in the SW. My grapefruit trees blossomed and my backyard is now a heady experience. I can’t compete with nature but have found the Chanel 5 moisture mist is perfect to keep me in a spring mood! I received gifts of the parfum from suitors when I was young and cute and let them age on my dresser. Too old and intense for me then. Now, this formulation and strength is perfection. The suitors are gone. Alive, just old! But, I will go out on a limb by declaring to be the best smelling woman of a certain age who is doing five loads of laundry while stepping over three cats. Booyah!
It is awesome you are getting involved in StoryCorps! I always look forward to it on Fridays mornings during my drive to work. I would love to do the same thing. I am really interested in oral history and it sounds amazing to be getting stories from veterans. Kudos to you!
Very exciting about StoryCorps! I participated several years ago, back when they had a booth at Grand Central terminal. It was a great experience. I love the idea of collecting the stories of “ordinary” people.
Booyah, indeed! (Altho I suppose I oughtta say Oorah instead, coming from a long line of Marines)
StoryCorp is so awesome, and I’d like to thank you for contributing to such a wonderful program.
And I bet you’ve smelled darn good you entire life! 😛
I’d like to experience that kind of winter, to see what it’s like. I keep saying I’m going to go spend the winter with my husband’s people in North Dakota!
The difference being I wouldn’t have to get out every day and go to work, or shovel or anything. I can see where that’d get old real quick.