In episode one of a three part series, Dior's François Demachy looks at the Rose de Mai of Grasse.
Bunch o’ limited edition collector bottles (& some other stuff) 2015, part 21
More limited edition collector fragrance bottles, with the usual disclaimers: in most of these cases, the juice is unchanged, just the bottle is “special” (or not, as the case may be), and some of these may not be available in the US. Today’s post includes collector editions from Prada, Lancôme and Paris Hilton; plus a new Touche de Parfum edition of Dior J’Adore.
From Prada, Candy in gold: “The iconic Prada Candy bottle is reinterpreted with a splash of gold. A provocative statement captures the impulsive nature of the Prada Candy woman. This new color and design are the result of a mix between elegance and excess.” In 80 ml Eau de Parfum, $114 at Bloomingdales…
5 perfumes: appreciating the Big Five
Like much art, some fragrances — especially the complex classics — take time to appreciate fully. At first, you might even find them off-putting. But as you spend time with each fragrance, you begin to appreciate its peculiar nature, its singular beauty. That describes how I’ve felt about the perfumes I’m calling the Big Five.
I’ll tell you a little about my relationship with each fragrance, then I’d love to hear how you’ve come to know each of them.
Chanel No. 5
For the longest time, I was convinced I knew all about No. 5. No. 5 was fine, full of straw-tinted jasmine, awash with aldehydes, and charming, if fusty. But it wasn’t for me — or so I thought…
Dior Sauvage ~ fragrance review
A friend recommends a movie: “Kevin, it’s perfect for you…about death, suicide, the past…the things you love!” I go, and want to leave the theater after 15 minutes. I’ve often bought a chocolate bar or bottle of wine after reading an article proclaiming their merits: “…you’ll experience rich notes of raisin, orange peel, dates, rose, saffron.” I eat and drink and want to spit. “Read this book, it will change your life!” Mostly unread, the book is now in Africa…either delighting or puzzling a child who happened to grab it from a bookshelf. If you’re reading this blog, you’ve probably bought a perfume without smelling it because it was praised by a “trusted” reviewer. I have! I buy…and cry: “What a waste of money!”
In my early years, I would get mad at being ‘tricked’ out of my time and cash. I’d rant: “Liars!” “Fools!” “Tasteless ignoramuses!” Now, I’m gentle. I think: maybe that book or chocolate bar or movie or perfume DID bring joy, a sense of revelation to someone — else…
Balade Sauvage
Perfumer François Demachy's "olfactory road movie" for Dior Sauvage.