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Monday scent of the day 7/26

Posted by Robin on 26 July 2021 157 Comments

It's Monday. Happy 76th to Helen Mirren; happy 78th to Mick Jagger. What fragrance are you wearing?

I'm on an extra-long beach weekend and commando at the moment. My fragrance last night was Badger Bug Balm.

Reminder: on 7/30 we're doing BUB Frenzy. Wear a fragrance that inspired you to buy a backup bottle (or that you wish you wish you had a backup bottle of, or you're thinking about buying a backup bottle). Adapted from a suggestion by chocolatemarzipan8.

And for those of you who like to plan ahead, see Scent of the day ~ Friday community projects 2021, where I'll try to always have the next five or six weeks mapped out in advance.

Note: top image is Brittle Star on Bubblegum Coral [cropped] by Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument at flickr; public domain.

Filed Under: poll
Tagged With: sotd

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157 Comments

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  1. PriscillaE says:
    26 July 2021 at 9:55 am

    Today I’m wearing Olympic Orchids Night Flyer.

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    • AnnieA says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:57 pm

      Do you know this line well? What are your favourites?

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  2. pyramus says:
    26 July 2021 at 10:09 am

    SL Cracheuse de Flamme, from a sample. It’s a nice well-behaved rose, but I can’t see why Uncle Serge thought it was necessary to add another rose to his line when he already has three excellent ones, and then to charge 450 € / 650 CAD for it. (Although I see it’s on sale for 360 €, for some reason.)

    In truth it’s the least interesting of all his rose scents. I had to choose one (I assume everyone got the memo) and so I bought La Fille de Berlin, the thorniest of the lot: I like my roses a little angry. I think I’ll wear that tomorrow.

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    • Robin says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:13 pm

      Maybe the price explains the release?

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      • pyramus says:
        26 July 2021 at 12:34 pm

        Yeah, you’re right, no doubt, but I think for that kind of money they’d do something more amazing. Of course, the market isn’t the person who would find a scent amazing, it’s the person who wants to spend a ton of money on a scent.

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  3. GateGirl says:
    26 July 2021 at 10:11 am

    I will (probably) be in Mandorlo Cioccolato (that’s a mouthful) later on today. Dame Helen still looks fantastic, and The Stones just announced a new tour for this fall. Like almost-eighty ain’t nothin’.

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    • Lovestosmellgood says:
      26 July 2021 at 11:21 am

      I love the name of your SOTD. I can say it all day!

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    • Robin says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:14 pm

      Mick Jagger has a lot more energy than I do 🙂

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      • lillyjo says:
        26 July 2021 at 12:50 pm

        Same. Plus a lot more money than me too!

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        • Robin says:
          26 July 2021 at 3:21 pm

          Ha, that too!!

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    • madtowngirl says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:19 pm

      Dame Helen does still look fantastic!

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    • AnnieA says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:57 pm

      A nummy mouthful, though.

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  4. SmokeyToes says:
    26 July 2021 at 10:13 am

    Morning all, happy Monday! Happy birthday to Helen Mirren. My favorite role of hers is as Georgina, in The Cook, the Thief,
    His Wife, and Her lover.
    I’ll do a week of fragrances that inspired a backup. Today’s SOTD is
    Jour Ensoleille by Sonoma Scent Studio.
    Enjoying an espresso, with a Nutella-topped buckwheat waffle. 🙂

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    • LizzieB says:
      26 July 2021 at 10:40 am

      Yep, I have a BUB of Jour Ensolleille….you smell gorgeous.

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      • sistine says:
        26 July 2021 at 1:24 pm

        Mmm, your breakfast sounds wonderful!

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    • Lovestosmellgood says:
      26 July 2021 at 11:14 am

      I had both an espresso and chai tea this morning. Espresso before my walk in Central Park and then I had chai tea peacefully without rushing when I finished.

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    • tannina says:
      26 July 2021 at 1:20 pm

      Oh, I loved those films from Greenway, but Drowning by numbers was my favorite

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      • SmokeyToes says:
        26 July 2021 at 2:56 pm

        I will definitely put it on my watch list! 🙂

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    • Ede97005 says:
      26 July 2021 at 1:25 pm

      OMG, that was a movie I obsessed over- and I think i obsessed over the director, Peter Greenaway, for a while!

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    • missionista says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:32 pm

      That movie traumatized me! My then-boyfirend and I were debating whether to go see it or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. We were planning to have dinner after the movie. We opted for The Cook, The Thief, and totally lost our appetites….

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      • SmokeyToes says:
        26 July 2021 at 7:58 pm

        Oh, that movie is an appetite-killer for sure!

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  5. thegoddessrena says:
    26 July 2021 at 10:26 am

    Santal Exotique for me today. Yes I have a travel spray backup but I am not convinced that that is enough to get me through the rest of my life. Too bad the perfumer never restarted Exotic Island Perfumes so I could get more

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    • springpansy says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:01 pm

      Oh, spices and sandalwood. Santal Exotique sounds right up my alley. I hope he starts up again sometime.

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      • thegoddessrena says:
        26 July 2021 at 3:27 pm

        It’s been years so probably not?

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        • springpansy says:
          26 July 2021 at 4:02 pm

          Ah, okay. I’ll watch for other fragrances with similar notes. Have you noticed anything that it’s similar to?

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  6. Barqs says:
    26 July 2021 at 10:28 am

    I am wearing YSL Libre EDT today and I am drinking my second cup of mint tea.

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    • Lovestosmellgood says:
      26 July 2021 at 11:12 am

      I smelled that on someone at the farmers market on Saturday, they told me that was their SOTD. You smell so good!

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      • AnnieA says:
        26 July 2021 at 12:56 pm

        Ooh, a fancy farmer’s market! I was at my first one during These Times, and not a sniff, alas.

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      • Barqs says:
        26 July 2021 at 3:06 pm

        Thanks 🙂 I enjoy wearing this one very much.

        I hope you found some good treats at the farmers market!

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  7. apsara says:
    26 July 2021 at 10:35 am

    One spray of St. Clair Pharaoh’s Passion.
    The back of the box says ” Beautiful scents lift our spirits & remind us of things we love.”

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    • Lovestosmellgood says:
      26 July 2021 at 11:13 am

      beautiful quote

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  8. Dawn says:
    26 July 2021 at 10:55 am

    Spending the morning in Eau Premiere and cleaning up the house today. My parents come home tomorrow night and I’d rather do the vacuuming and general putting the house back together. Better to do it today than rush around tomorrow to do all of it. Yesterday, I cleaned out the fridge. Finished 4 candles last night and I might be able to finish 2 more between today and tomorrow. Post cleaning and shower will be vintage L’heure Bleue since I haven’t worn it in forever.

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    • Robin says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:16 pm

      Your candle usage puts me to shame! Good luck getting everything in order.

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      • Dawn says:
        26 July 2021 at 12:31 pm

        I have too many candles and pleased with myself that I didn’t bite when BBW had the buy 2 get 2 free deal this weekend. Also happy that last night I reached my goal of using up 8 candles. Now it’s mostly airing out the house.

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    • AnnieA says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:55 pm

      Dawn, what would be your BBW candle recommendations? They seem to change so fast it makes me dizzy.

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      • Dawn says:
        26 July 2021 at 1:18 pm

        Teakwood Mahogany is a good one along with Lavender Cedarwood is a solid one. Frozen Lake and Sundrenched Linen are great too and all 4 are year round ones. Spring ones are Fresh Cut Lilac, Sunshine and Daffodils and Honeysuckle Bouquet are good, haven’t found any good summer offerings. Fall is Honeycrisp Apple and winter is Evergreen and Winter. I am not a huge fan of foody and I loath anything with cinnamon and pumpkin. Most BBW candles are pretty strong and I mainly am sticking to the single wick candles for now.

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        • AnnieA says:
          26 July 2021 at 2:57 pm

          Thanks so much for the suggestions. Will report back if I have successful shopping this weekend.

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    • SmokeyToes says:
      26 July 2021 at 2:57 pm

      Oh, I’m envious you get to use candles. I have a few Diptyque that I wish I could light occasionally…

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  9. foxbins says:
    26 July 2021 at 10:58 am

    Twins with thegoddessrena in Santal Exotique. My little 10ml bottle is evaporating so I had better use it while I have it.
    It’s going to be hot here all week, ugh.

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    • Robin says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:16 pm

      Darned hot at the beach too foxbins!

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  10. happy888cat says:
    26 July 2021 at 11:02 am

    Good morning.
    Sotd is the opulent Baccarat Rouge 540. I don’t have a backup but I’m seriously considering.
    Currently drinking peach green tea.

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    • majokkobiachan says:
      26 July 2021 at 1:33 pm

      Baccarat Rouge 540 will be the next sample I shall get to try. I am so intrigued by it. It has to be special.

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  11. floragal says:
    26 July 2021 at 11:03 am

    I don’t believe I have any BUBs. I have full bottles which is a big deal for me given my strong desire for variety and how quickly I falling out of love with a scent. My husband on the other hand has BUBs of Jessica McClintock, lol.. I think he actually has 3 bottles of this.

    SOTD: Encre Noire

    Enjoy your time at the beach, Robin! Sounds wonderful.

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    • SmokeyToes says:
      26 July 2021 at 2:57 pm

      Wow, is the men’s Jessica McClintock good?

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      • floragal says:
        26 July 2021 at 3:10 pm

        It’s the woman’s version, lol!

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        • hajusuuri says:
          26 July 2021 at 3:44 pm

          Maybe he’s using not so subtle persuasion …

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          • floragal says:
            26 July 2021 at 4:12 pm

            (insert eye roll)

    • Robin says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:22 pm

      We are having a lovely time, thank you! Might stay another day or two.

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  12. Lovestosmellgood says:
    26 July 2021 at 11:16 am

    I have one perfume that I have a back up bottle for and I will save that for Friday.

    Right now I am commando. Going into the Columbus circle area-going to stop at Nordies to see if its possible to smell some perfumes. I haven’t been into Nordstrom since before the pandemic. Let me know if you have and what is the status of testers etc.

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    • thegoddessrena says:
      26 July 2021 at 11:36 am

      I’ve been to Nordstroms and Neiman Marcus here in Denver and was so thrilled to be able to test things in person again. Loved Molton Brown Milk Musk on my first sampling trip in forever and was so disappointed when we went to the mall this week (my stepdaughter was visiting) and I couldn’t just buy it in person because it was sold out.

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      • Lovestosmellgood says:
        26 July 2021 at 11:46 am

        Good to know. I will give myself some time to sniff around

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    • SmokeyToes says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:00 pm

      I can’t wait to see what you wear on Friday!

      Unfortunately, I have a bit of a BUB problem…. 😯

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    • floragal says:
      26 July 2021 at 4:13 pm

      I’d love to zip down from the UWS and do some sniffing with you!

      Nordies has some decent smelling options but you should also then stroll over to Bergdorf too 😉

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  13. Coumarin says:
    26 July 2021 at 11:44 am

    Hello all!

    Today I’m in Dior Addict, the original holographic box one. Dior has such a tenuous attachment to its formulas and legacy, so I was curious to try the original. (Thank you for the tip all those months ago, Lillyjo!)

    A somewhat smoky vanilla and orange blossom. Smells almost niche, which I’m not sure is a comment on mainstream or niche.

    Stay safe all!

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    • lillyjo says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:54 pm

      Yay! You smell fantastic!
      Nice to see you posting ?

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      • Coumarin says:
        27 July 2021 at 12:31 am

        Thank you! Been a busy be this month. ?

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    • pyramus says:
      26 July 2021 at 2:31 pm

      My mother loved Dior Addict. It was her favourite modern scent. She was so disappointed when the replacement bottle I got her for Mother’s Day one year didn’t smell the same at all. Dior really is very cavalier about their reformulations: at least Chanel and Calvin Klein and Estée Lauder *try* to make their do-overs smell similar.

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      • Coumarin says:
        27 July 2021 at 12:33 am

        Yes, it’s a real shame. I would love to have a bit of the original Miss Dior Cherie myself….

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    • SmokeyToes says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:02 pm

      You smell marvelous! I have the older version and it’s glorious. It has a similar opening to Shalimar Souffle Intense, which I also adore.

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      • Coumarin says:
        27 July 2021 at 12:33 am

        Oh I’ll have to try the Shalimar! I never see those flankers here, sadly.

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  14. Kelly Red says:
    26 July 2021 at 11:46 am

    I order lots of things from BeautyHabit and they always include a few samples. Hence I have a DOZEN samples of Kai! ?
    So that’s what I’m wearing. Today is very hot and humid so Kai fits the mood.

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    • SheriG says:
      26 July 2021 at 1:18 pm

      I’m curious — do you pour the little samples into a larger atomizer, or do you just dab?

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      • Kelly Red says:
        26 July 2021 at 2:41 pm

        For samples I’m a dabber. Kai is an oil so I’m afraid decanting would waste it. I’ve used up 2 sample vials, then I leave them in my undie drawer.

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  15. lucasai says:
    26 July 2021 at 11:46 am

    The hot has arrived along with storm alerts so I’m utilizing Diptyque Ilio to cool down a bit.

    Fingers crossed the storms won’t be dangerous.

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    • majokkobiachan says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:54 pm

      I am crossing my fingers for Your safety 🙂 and I have noticed You quite enjoy Ilio which is great!!

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    • lillyjo says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:55 pm

      Stay safe lucasai!

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    • sistine says:
      26 July 2021 at 1:27 pm

      Stay safe. You smell great!

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    • MossyBerry says:
      26 July 2021 at 2:26 pm

      Do you have tornados where you are?

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      • lucasai says:
        26 July 2021 at 2:29 pm

        Luckily not

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  16. SheriG says:
    26 July 2021 at 12:02 pm

    I’m in Acqua di Parma Iris Nobile EDT this morning, and thinking about back-up bottles. I don’t have any at the moment, and I think the reason is that I indulge in more large bottles than I should. Iris Nobile, for instance – I went for the 100 ml bottle, and thus will never run out of it in my lifetime. I did have a BUB of 24 Faubourg at one time, but it is now primary rather than back-up. I’ll save that for Friday.

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    • majokkobiachan says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:52 pm

      Iris Nobile is a huge love for me. Back in the day I’ve gone through two huge 100ml bottles like it was nothing… Wish I saved some because it has been discontinued. Iris Nobile is an iris like no other iris fragrance out there. Elegant, warm, sensual, multi-faceted. ?

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      • SheriG says:
        26 July 2021 at 1:17 pm

        I agree on all counts!

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    • Barqs says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:08 pm

      Iris Nobile is so beautiful .

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  17. madtowngirl says:
    26 July 2021 at 12:05 pm

    I’m in Assam of India. It’s hot here this week and I’m gonna try and use this bottle up. It’s a like but not a love. The bottle is super cute though.
    We went to see Roadrunner, the film abut Anthony Bourdain yesterday afternoon. I think it’s the first time I’ve been in a theater since Christmas 2019. The movie was very good. I felt a little emotional afterward.

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    • majokkobiachan says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:50 pm

      I love that bottle too!!

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      • madtowngirl says:
        26 July 2021 at 6:05 pm

        Elephants. What’s not to love, right?!

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    • Robin says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:23 pm

      So glad to hear it was good, I want to see that.

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      • madtowngirl says:
        26 July 2021 at 6:11 pm

        I’ll be curious to hear if other people like it.

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  18. Adrihazel says:
    26 July 2021 at 12:34 pm

    SOTD is Etro’s Amber. For me it’s the perfume equivalent of a good hug, and I need that today.

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    • majokkobiachan says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:49 pm

      Awww sending You a huge virtual hug ?

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      • Adrihazel says:
        26 July 2021 at 1:30 pm

        Thank you!

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    • lillyjo says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:57 pm

      Adding a hug from me ?

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      • Adrihazel says:
        26 July 2021 at 1:30 pm

        Thank you! ?

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    • sistine says:
      26 July 2021 at 1:29 pm

      Hug is being sent your way.

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      • Adrihazel says:
        26 July 2021 at 1:30 pm

        Thank you!

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  19. AnnieA says:
    26 July 2021 at 12:51 pm

    In SL Bas de Soie. This is my third bottle, and in the middle of my second bottle, BUB already bought, I started liking other iris-based perfumes more. Such is my fickle little nose. It is still pretty nice, and a lesson to not necessarily rush out and do more buying.

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    • AnnieA says:
      26 July 2021 at 12:51 pm

      Is this your favourite amber/hug perfume?

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      • AnnieA says:
        26 July 2021 at 12:52 pm

        (Rats, that was for Adrihazel above)

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        • Adrihazel says:
          26 July 2021 at 1:33 pm

          Yes! I bought it as a gift for myself when I graduated college over a decade ago. It smells delicious but stays very close to my skin, I get pretty good wear time though I can often still smell a bit at the end of the day. It’s just a cozy scent!

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    • SheriG says:
      26 July 2021 at 2:02 pm

      I came at Bas de Soie from the opposite direction — had tons of iris-focused scents and really wanted to love BdS as well so I ordered samples several times. In the end it was a like but not a love.

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    • MossyBerry says:
      26 July 2021 at 2:09 pm

      Bas de Soie is one of my favorites – instant love but I won’t get a back-up because I think it does not quite suit me. M. Lutens’ scent are overall not quite me in the way Mrs. Lauder’s are, in that the SL’s are formal and “public” to my mind, while EL’s are either very cozy and everyday or like a special, family occasion. A possible exception is Fils de Joie; I do have a back up, and so far, I find it to be “me.”

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  20. Oakland Fresca says:
    26 July 2021 at 12:52 pm

    I’m in Prada’s Infusion De Oeillet for its elegant and calming qualities. Spent the weekend in LA celebrating my FIL’s 85th.

    I am looking forward to reading everyone’s sitcom preferences from Friday, but confess I already peeked to see what perfume Robin paired with Community 😉 !

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    • LizzieB says:
      26 July 2021 at 2:48 pm

      Lovely scent.

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    • Robin says:
      27 July 2021 at 10:14 am

      Hope you approved?

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  21. nozknoz says:
    26 July 2021 at 1:13 pm

    It’s challenging, but I managed to get my hands on a few samples of Lyn Harris’s Perfumer H brand on the internet (none left from that source, unfortunately).

    Today I’m testing Ink. It rippled through changes for the first 5 or 10 minutes and seems to have settled into a soft and slightly warm vetiver that has touches of smoke, wood, and citrus. Very subtle and grounding.

    Yesterday I tried Atlas, which I found fascinating because of how it transported me to a forest, not a summery green forest, but a misty forest with some cedar trees.

    In my post yesterday, I said that Perfumer H doesn’t ship to the US. Now I’m seeing that they DO. However, FEDEX delivery costs 46 pounds, and you would also have to pay 23 pounds VAT for a 140 pound perfume.

    I looked up each of the US stockists listed on the Perfumer H website.

    You can order Perfumer H from Tiina The Store in Armagansett, New York. The website of Gallery Half in Los Angeles indicates that you can inquire about the Perfumer H summer collection.

    Bygeorge in Austin is listed as a stockist, but Perfumer H isn’t found on their website. Nonetheless, it might be worth checking the store if you’re there. Capitol in Santa Monica also has some of the perfumes and candles on their website (which I found by Googling).

    These sources and shops in many other countries are listed here:

    https://www.perfumerh.com/stockists/

    Also, many thanks to the kind NSTer (Pixel?) who sent me samples a few years ago after a trip to London. My interest had been piqued by a review, and those samples convinced me that Perfumer H was a line worth looking into further if that ever became more feasible.

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    • MossyBerry says:
      26 July 2021 at 2:12 pm

      Good report, NozKnoz: the quest-lemming needs this type of information! Quest perfumes: that might be a good CP day?!?

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      • nozknoz says:
        26 July 2021 at 5:01 pm

        YES — that’s a great idea for a CP!

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  22. majokkobiachan says:
    26 July 2021 at 1:24 pm

    SotD = Noix de Tubereuse. Just because. I love it!! I gor like 5 heavy sprays on me… The best part? I am home by myself, not even going anywhere at all until it is time to pick up my 2 year old from school. I have comfy clothes on, clean, cute but comfy. But my perfume makes ME feel like a million bucks ?

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    • Robin says:
      27 July 2021 at 10:14 am

      Very late reply but hope it was a lovely home-alone day 🙂

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  23. tannina says:
    26 July 2021 at 1:25 pm

    Second day of testing my very small sample of Dryad and I think this is a great scent. I maybe have a chance to buy a used bottle, so hopefully I get lucky

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    • SheriG says:
      26 July 2021 at 2:04 pm

      Dryad is so gorgeous.

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  24. majokkobiachan says:
    26 July 2021 at 1:37 pm

    The only two I have a BUB of is CdG Nomad Tea and Ashoka. I also still wish and will have a back up bottle of Tuberoza by Nishane.

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  25. sistine says:
    26 July 2021 at 1:45 pm

    SOTD is Child. I’m having a great day chilling with the dog.

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    • Robin says:
      27 July 2021 at 10:15 am

      Nice way to pass the day 🙂

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  26. Dorsey says:
    26 July 2021 at 2:08 pm

    I go through perfume so slowly I never saw the sense of having a backup. The closest I have is a travel size in addition to the bottle so I’ll get half points for Friday.

    Today, I’ve been watching the Olympics so I chose Gallivant Tokyo.

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    • Robin says:
      27 July 2021 at 10:15 am

      Same here Dorsey…it’s been years since I bothered getting a backup.

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  27. MossyBerry says:
    26 July 2021 at 2:23 pm

    I love today’s picture, Robin! The inherent symmetrical beauty and colors of sea-creatures has captivated me ever since I saw pictures of diatoms and later read the book Pagoo The Hermit Crab by Holling Clancy Holling when a child. SotD TF Black Orchid Voile de Fleur, from a soon to be thunked sample. I like it very much, have and enjoy Noir and Violet Blonde, and have sampled Ombre Leather, but based on all of these, the house of TF (especially at the prices) does not “reach” me.

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    • hajusuuri says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:47 pm

      I’m terrible … some segments look very much like Jeff Bezos’ “spaceship”.

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      • MossyBerry says:
        26 July 2021 at 4:36 pm

        Err,,,I see what you mean, and I had *no idea* what it looked like until now…here’s an antidote: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fish_Magic_(Klee) 😀

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    • Robin says:
      27 July 2021 at 10:16 am

      Good, doing lots of sea creatures this week!

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  28. Aurora says:
    26 July 2021 at 2:34 pm

    Some spectacular and long thunderstorm yesterday and a fresher day, good for the plants.

    I was in Fresh Bulgarian Rose, no BUB of that one, long discontinued I think and this evening in AA Lys Soleia, bottle half used and BUB in the wings.

    Enjoy the beach Robin.

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    • Robin says:
      27 July 2021 at 10:16 am

      I am, thanks Aurora!

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  29. Ede97005 says:
    26 July 2021 at 2:35 pm

    Monday!

    1) In Brazillian Lime Fig Leaves and Tea from Beauty Pie today. No BUB because this one is Beauty Pies most popular scent, and I can get it anytime with my subscription.

    2) And SO: almost three weeks over time line (almost two of those due to the heat dome and waiting for plumbing services I wound up not using) the chaotic kitchen remodel is done!
    Keeping the same footprint, the remodel using IKEA’s Sektion system has give me about 45% more useable storage and prep space. The new appliances fit nicely and overall the ground floor has a more elevated, warm and fresh feel. It’s gonna be great to cook and prep food here!
    There is still tidying to do, organization of spices and pantry goods, tiling& paint (October) and venting the microwave (September) but overall I am very please with how things look & function so far.

    Money:
    So real quick: (prices include discounts in paratheses)
    The IKEA cabinets and panels were $4500.
    IKEA Essential dishwasher: $399 (on sale a month after I bought it; the money was credited back to my account)
    Microwave/convection $479 (on sale 4 months after I bought it; I was given a courtesy credit to my account for this)
    Induction Stove $950 (on sale 4 months after I bought it; was given a courtesy discount for this)
    Countertops: $1000 (includes shipping)
    Sink, faucet & pipes: $300

    Total: $7,628 for materials.

    Handyperson services: $1500 (includes assembly of kitchen island, installation of countertop and help with cabinet assembly)

    Total: $8,828.00

    My contributions, based on estimates given to me:
    Assembly of cabinets: 1000
    Dry fit and install of stove/microwave(temporary until vented): $300
    Plumb of water line to fridge: $250
    Cleaning and recycle of boxes: $250
    Installation of kitchen sink & dishwasher(including piping and electrical) $1500 (!!!)
    Tile setting & paint: $500

    Total: $3,800 in ‘savings’.

    So the net cost winds up being $5328 overall. When I go to vent the exhaust fan for the microwave that will be an additional $300, but that’s fine.

    This was exhausting and chaotic; I am so happy I did this. It adds functionality and beauty to the home. I was quoted $12K for a mere REFACING of the kitchen cabinets and a whole $30K for a new kitchen cabinets ONLY from Home Depot. Smaller kitchen shops did not even take/return my phone calls!

    Would I do this again:

    Yes- I would redo a kitchen!
    No- I would contract more out!

    The circumstances of the pandemic plus my job change made me focus on getting as much done by myself as possible. If I was to sell up and do this again, I would absolutely use IKEA again (with SemiHandmade panels perhaps) and have an experienced crew do this. Yes, I saved money doing this- but it was slower going, with just one other person, I have to redo work (venting) and my sanity is long gone. There is something to be said about skilled full time tradespeople.

    Today will be dedicated to sorting things and putting them in storage in the garage, tossing out old broken bits – and having iced tea in the new kitchen!

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    • LizzieB says:
      26 July 2021 at 2:52 pm

      Congratulations, and I am filled with awe and admiration!

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      • Ede97005 says:
        27 July 2021 at 12:56 pm

        Oh shucks! Thank you so much!

        I am so happy and proud that this project came to fruition…5 years after getting the place, but still!

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    • SmokeyToes says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:03 pm

      Wow, just reading all of that makes me need a nap…. Good job though!

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      • Ede97005 says:
        26 July 2021 at 3:53 pm

        It was a true Russian saga for sure! ?

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    • Gail says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:38 pm

      Bowing to your skills! Congratulations and more importantly, enjoy!

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      • Ede97005 says:
        26 July 2021 at 3:54 pm

        Thank you! I just made my lunch and I am so happy about it! No more takeout!

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    • missionista says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:44 pm

      I am so impressed!

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      • Ede97005 says:
        26 July 2021 at 3:56 pm

        Oh gorsh thank you!?

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    • hajusuuri says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:52 pm

      ???

      Congratulations on having $3,800 for your perfume budget!

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      • Ede97005 says:
        26 July 2021 at 3:56 pm

        LOL, right tho?

        Everything will be paid off by this time next year thanks to those savings- so my scent budget will be very generous!

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    • floragal says:
      26 July 2021 at 4:24 pm

      Yes! Awe & admiration from me as well!

      My father (75 years old) decided to play contractor for the home my parents just moved into. It was an insane decision and probably took a year off his life which at 75 is a big deal. The thinking was because he had built 3 other houses over the years he could handle this on his own. No sweat, right? Wrong. Just glad my parents are still together.

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      • Ede97005 says:
        26 July 2021 at 4:56 pm

        Oh God No!

        While it’s great your dad had the energy and ambition for such a project, I could not see myself doing such a thing at 75! No way!

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    • springpansy says:
      26 July 2021 at 5:09 pm

      Wow – congratulations and that’s a pretty amazingly low expenditure for a great kitchen remodel. Enjoy!

      I’m curious about Ikea cabinets – what does it mean to have Semi Handmade panels? I thought all their stuff was mass produced?

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      • Ede97005 says:
        26 July 2021 at 5:57 pm

        Thank you!

        1) There are two parts to IKEA cabinets: the actual modular system, Sektion/Metod (depending on the country you are in) and then the panels. You can choose to have IKEA modular cabinets and panels, or you can use the IKEA modular cabinets and another panel system. One of the panel systems is called Semi Handmade. Their panels come in more colors and are made of solid wood.

        2) There are other companies that do this; one is located here in Portland, OR : https://kokeena.com/townsend-home

        And here are a selection of companies that do this worldwide: https://www.remodelista.com/posts/ikea-upgrade-5-cabinet-fronts-for-the-ultimate-ikea-hack/

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    • Robin says:
      27 July 2021 at 10:18 am

      So happy it all worked out so well! And thank you for including the accounting, very helpful to see — hoping we will redo our kitchen this year or next.

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      • Robin says:
        27 July 2021 at 10:19 am

        Oh, and just watched your video — fantastic!!

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        • Ede97005 says:
          27 July 2021 at 1:00 pm

          Very chaotic! 🙂 I will go picking flowers today from the front yard to give the space happiness and warmth.

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      • Ede97005 says:
        27 July 2021 at 1:09 pm

        I really hope the accounting is helpful- because I got the products from mass retailers (IKEA ,Home Depot, Amazon) the prices should be pretty equal across North America. Keep in mind though:

        1) Oregon does not have sales tax- so prices could be more by 8-17% in certain places across North America.
        2) The house was built in 2006, and I followed the footprint, so no need for permits and fees that go with it. There was also no demolition of walls nor movement of services. All of that will have a cost.

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        • Robin says:
          27 July 2021 at 8:52 pm

          Keeping the current footprint is my plan exactly, and I appear to have standard cabinet sizes already. I do want to replace my tile floor, and we have a vent in one corner that requires cutting a corner out of the back of a corner cabinet (appears that’s what they did last time too). I would prefer Ikea cabinets, but might hire a contractor to install…I don’t think I have your skills! My husband put in our d/w and stove anyway, and I don’t need those replaced.

          I would kind of like to buy the Ikea cabinets / drawers and then unfinished fronts from Semihandmade, and then paint them, but we’ll see if I ever get any of this going…

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  30. springpansy says:
    26 July 2021 at 2:59 pm

    I don’t think I have any BUB. Do I? Need to check, but I’m pretty sure. I have a couple in different formats (like lotion and perfume) so I’ll use one of those on Friday.

    Today, however, I’m in Byredo Bal d’Afrique perfume oil. It’s really lovely. No back-up or other format of this one.

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    • SmokeyToes says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:04 pm

      Lovely perfume oil, Bal d’Afrique is yummy….

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  31. LizzieB says:
    26 July 2021 at 3:04 pm

    Shalimar Eau de Cologne. No BUB on this one, but I will likely finish the bottle at some point.

    Fun but tiring weekend. Nice dinner out with friends for the husband’s birthday. He likes a bit of fuss. Then we drove down to a small county fair on Saturday to see a comedian we like perform his “Midwest Survival Tour.” Minor panic when my husband couldn’t get any cell signal to pull up our tickets. We parked outside a cellular store that offered a free Spectrum WiFi trial to get them downloaded. It was either that or drive about 20 miles to find a signal. ?

    Did an overnight, so kitty was a bit irritated when we got home last night. All is forgiven.

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    • hajusuuri says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:55 pm

      Happy Birthday to the hubby. The lack of cell signal makes me think that some venues should warn you before offering paperless tickets. That said, NJTransit conductors repeat several times over the PA to activate tickets before the train leaves the station.

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      • LizzieB says:
        26 July 2021 at 4:44 pm

        I would have printed, because I’m uber-conscious of being prepared. Or, added to my wallet.

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    • floragal says:
      26 July 2021 at 4:16 pm

      Happy Birthday to the hubby! Sounds like you’re settling in nicely in the new town.

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    • nozknoz says:
      26 July 2021 at 5:26 pm

      Oh, gosh, I *always* print tickets because I’m afraid my phone will suddenly be out of juice or something! Thank you for this story, which makes me not feel that I’m being unnecessarily old-fashioned or OCD. (I do usually reuse the paper for notes or something.) Also, I’m very glad there was a happy ending after all!

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    • madtowngirl says:
      26 July 2021 at 6:15 pm

      Happy birthday to your hubby! Wisconsin county fairs are the best!

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  32. Gaynor says:
    26 July 2021 at 3:29 pm

    I’m wearing Bond No 9’s Chinatown today. I’m wearing a pink and grey tweedy jacket, and Chinatown is in a pink and white bottle, so the perfume choice was easy!

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    • majokkobiachan says:
      26 July 2021 at 3:51 pm

      I am expecting a delivery of Chinatown this evening (yes our mail usually gets here very late).

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    • MossyBerry says:
      26 July 2021 at 4:30 pm

      You sound very stylish – at work, or special occasion?

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  33. missionista says:
    26 July 2021 at 3:48 pm

    Wearing Jasmine de Provence, and enjoying it on a hot day.

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  34. Gail says:
    26 July 2021 at 3:51 pm

    Wearing Bronze Goddess today. I do have a bub, and I also got my paws on a bottle of one of the earlier versions (with the gold textured decorated bottle). It’s good in the heat we are still having. I even put on a Lisa Eldridge lippie.

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    • floragal says:
      26 July 2021 at 4:15 pm

      I tried the skin scent version of this at Macy’s this weekend and really liked it.

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      • Gail says:
        26 July 2021 at 8:17 pm

        Glad you liked it! It’s become a no-brainer scent for the summer for me.

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  35. hajusuuri says:
    26 July 2021 at 4:05 pm

    SOTD = Tauer Cologne du Maghreb

    Nice but too short-lived. I wore the 2021 version. I also have the 2011 version (???) and need to do a side x side comparison.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CRzVM7zhtX_/?utm_medium=copy_link

    In other news, I was off work today since I really need to start using my 2021 vacation days. I decided to take a trip out to Trader Joe’s which is ~ 25 miles RT so it is a big deal considering I can walk to Wegmans. I haven’t been there in almost 2 years and things still look pretty much the same. I ended up buying junk food because I was already all stocked up from my Saturday grocery shopping AND I brought home leftovers from a meal with family / friends.

    I have BUBs although I am rethinking my BUB approach. Just don’t touch my Chanel No.19 EDP ?.

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  36. Vee says:
    26 July 2021 at 4:19 pm

    SOTD is CdG Rouge. I get mint, patchouli, and incense. I don’t get the beet note, which is too bad because I wanted to see how I liked a beet note in a frag, but it’s also OK because I am loving this as it is, especially for hot weather. Just testing this one, so no BUB (although I will probably order a FB at some point). But I do have a BUB of CdG Zagorsk, as well as a BUCandle of Zagorsk, which has a similar incense + freshness vibe.

    Drinking Clippership Mangalam Assam. I have a huge bag of it, so today’s pot is not helping me clear out the tea cabinet, but it’s Monday and I wanted fancy tea, darnit.

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    • majokkobiachan says:
      26 July 2021 at 9:42 pm

      I can’t wait to be able to test Rouge. I am so curious if I will get the beet note in it. I love mint and I love CdG incense. Anyway Rouge is must try fpr me at some point!!

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    • allo says:
      27 July 2021 at 12:58 am

      I get the beet and love it! And the ruby red bottle!

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  37. AnniePerfumes says:
    26 July 2021 at 4:19 pm

    During this 2020, I used more of my ‘old friends’ and was greatful for my older stash.
    That said, there is always a new scent, a new perfumer or store to support.

    BUB : Coconut Lime Verbena perfume and spray.

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  38. Ms Tar Heel says:
    26 July 2021 at 4:35 pm

    Dame Helen is proof that a woman can be strong, sexy and elegant at any age!

    I went commando this morning for a doctors appointment, but making up for it now in Solstice Scents Spirit Tree edp. It’s a BWF warmed with vanilla and woods and it’s well suited to the humidity of a Carolina summer. I don’t know why, but it gives me a scent memory I associate with the Bain de Soleil orange gelée my aunt used to use for tanning in the 1970s. She was very glamorous, at least in my eyes!

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  39. Isabella says:
    26 July 2021 at 5:25 pm

    Very late to the party today in No. 19 to help brace me for the Monday avalanche. Unfortunately my migriane is still lurking around so I’ve been fairly wary of scent this past week.

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  40. lillyjo says:
    26 July 2021 at 9:02 pm

    I thought the picture was worms in a tree.
    I started out the day in BBW Chocolate Cherry something body spray. At lunch I put on Nest Hibiscus Sun from a roller mini. I actually have a bub roller ball of this because it came in a set with the spray oil, and I couldn’t resist.

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  41. Old Herbaceous says:
    26 July 2021 at 10:08 pm

    Penhaligons’s Juniper Sling to start the day, then 4160 Tuesdays’ Scenthusiasm later. Gin heaven!

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    • allo says:
      27 July 2021 at 1:01 am

      Gin is divine! I also get a G&T vibe from Angeliques Sous La Pluie.

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