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Saturday, December 29, 2007

Best of 2007


Well here we are again at the close of another year! As tradition has it, we fragrance/fashion/make-up bloggers compile our "Best of" lists for the year. So in keeping with tradition, here are mine. You will see ambers had a big influence this year, in fact all my picks have amber except one! Many of you know, my favorite amber, Anne Pliska is my Holy Grail Fragrance, the one that I love above all. But I also fell for a few new fragrances this past year. These are my favorites, the ones that really stand out above the rest. Here are my Top Ten for 2007, not in any particular order.


Virtuessence of Esther - Virtue & Valor Inc.
Proving even more beautiful in person, is the gorgeous bottle of the Virtuessense of Esther. If you think you have seen some beautiful falcons before, just wait till you see this beauty in person. Talk about a gift of elegance, a present to be remembered, a gift to be treasured. This fragrance was a Christmas gift to myself this year, and as I opened the package I was stunned. What an unforgettable present this would be! A Bridal Gift, or Mother's day, Graduation, Valentine's Day, a special Birthday, or anytime that something a little more special is called for. I can't imagine any woman not being thrilled to receive this gift. The bottle itself is a beautiful display item, display case worthy.

The fragrance is just lovely; delicate, feminine and soft. In my opinion this is infinitely wearable by most, I doubt there would be few, if any, to find this objectionable in any way.

I am very impressed with the fragrance, packaging, website presentation, customer service and entire concept of this fragrance. I think you will be too.

Top: Lily, Orange, Ylang
Mid: Cinnamon, Ginger, Jasmine, Clove
Base: Vanilla, Amber, Musk, Patchouli, Frankincense, Sandalwood

You can find my review by clicking here: Review - Virtuessence of Esther
You can buy Virtuessence of Esther at their website: Virtue & Valor Inc.


Rousse - Serge Lutens
A great fall/winter fragrance this one is bold, foody and gourmand. Lots of clove, simmering pots of potpourri, orange studded clove pomanders, and cinnamon. Dry cinnamon sticks stirred into hot cider. Foody and rich gourmand spicy, mouthwatering! Drying down to such a lovely amber base. So warm and delicious, perfect to take the chill off, a new winter favorite.

Notes:
Top: Floral Notes, Aromatic Notes, Fruit
Mid: Cinnamon-Wood Note, Spices
Base: Amber, Musks, Vanilla

You can read my review here: Review - Rousse
You can buy Rousse here: Lucky Scent - Rousse


Ginger Musk - Montale
Very surprising and arriving late in the season was Montale's Ginger Musk. Not even knowing the perfumerie till after several wearings. It was one of several generous sized decants given to me by a friend and simply labeled "Ginger Musk". Sounding rather generic, I wasn't sure if this was BBW or a some Paris exclusive, but it sounded interesting. Interesting soon turned to captivating, and I found myself wearing this one a lot and getting many compliments along the way. Beautiful floral-gingery opening with a light musk weaving in and out. This is one I like to label as self renewing. You may not smell it for awhile and then when you least suspect it, you get beautiful wafts that surprise you. Ever so slightly indolic, yet not enough to ruin, it actually enhances the scent. This coming from someone who has a firm dislike of anything ummm ... poopie. Beautiful and long lasting, don't you just love surprises?

Notes:
Ginger, blackberry, red berries, white musk

You can read more about or buy Ginger Musk here: Lucky Scent - Ginger Musk


Cardinal - Heeley
My favorite incense scent, Cardinal is lightly smoky, warm and comforting. As opposed to Etro Messe de Minuit, there are no damp and moldy notes here. If MdM is the incensey, cold, damp, stone church basement where ancient scrolls are stored, Cardinal is the church attic where the warm sweet incense rises and the sunlight filters in through the rafters.

This warm scent is a nice, simple, incense scent; beautiful in its simplicity.

Notes: Incense, cistus, grey amber, patchouli, vetiver

You can read my first review here: Review - Cardinal
You can purchase Cardinal here: Lucky Scent - Cardinal


Amber Absolute - Tom Ford Private Blend
Whether or not you like the persona, Tom Ford knows his way around the fragrance counter. Bold, opulent, sexy and evocative, the Ford fragrances push the Armani Prives to the back of the bus with an "in your face" attitude that is, well ... Tom Ford. Amber Absolute is rich, dark and sinfully delicious. From my first sniff of the tiny vial in my friend's car, I was memorized. A smoky, resinous, incencey amber that leaps off the skin. This sexy amber wears like pure parfum, long lasting and incredibly sexy. Wear sparingly or this one will knock you over and slap your grandma back in Tennessee.

Notes:
Amber, African incense, labdanum, rich woods, vanilla bean

View the Tom Ford Website here: Tom Ford
Available from: Saks Fifth Ave & Bergdorf Goodman NYC and Select Neiman Marcus Stores


Mediterranean - Elizabeth Arden
Need a vacation? What a surprise this little number turned out to be, and even more surprising was the number of times I reached for it. The epitome of a vacation scent, this one whisks you away with cool ocean breezes. A sparkling woody floral to enjoy and be enjoyed by others. Be prepared for compliments with this one. Wow, effervescent!

Top: Peach nectar sorbet, sicilian mandarin, damask plum
Mid: Wisteria, star magnolia, Madagascar orchid
Base: Sandalwood, musk, amber

You can find Mediterranean at Macy's.
Or read more about it here at the Elizabeth Arden website.


Fiori d'Ambra - Profumum
A beautiful light floral amber that reminds me of Ambra di Venezia, or what I thought Ambra di Venezia should be, rather than the jasmine scent that it is. But I digress. A beautiful cozy amber with Opium overtones and a slightly boozy nature.

Notes: Amber gris, opium
Buy Fiori d'Ambra here: Lucky Scent - Fiori d'Ambra


Belle En Rykiel - Sonia Rykiel
Proving once again that I can find lavender scents to love, here is a beautiful soft, feminine fragrance resting on a warm amber base. This lovely oriental scent has a lavender-frankincense accord which keeps it comtemporary. Sexy, flirty, confident, Belle is a charmer that garners compliments.

Top: Lavender, Mandarin Orange, Red Currant
Mid: Heliotrope, Incense, Coffee Flower
Base: Patchouli, Amber, Mahogany Wood, Vanilla

You can buy Belle En Rykiel at Beauty.Com: Beauty.Com - Belle


Orange Flower & Amber - Potter & Moore
I discovered this one in a perfumerie at a lush local Southern CA resort spa. It was a summer favorite with it's light, fresh, tender orange blossoms and its warm amber base. Made with natural ingredients and essential oils OF&A feels bright and downright juicy. A spring and summer treat!

You can buy this one at: Beautyhabit - Orange Flower & Amber
Or check out the Potter & Moore website here: Potter & Moore


Anne Pliska Creme - Anne Pliska
This new formula perfumed cream released in February of this year comes in a great stand up tube and has been reformulated with more fragrance and a thicker, creamier texture. I love the dreamy pink color and the way if lasts and lasts!

Buy Anne Pliska Creme here: Lucky Scent - Anne Pliska Creme
Or buy samples or order by phone from the website: Anne Pliska.Com


To See More Favorites and Best of 2007, Check Out My Fellow Bloggers:

  • 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic

  • Afrobella

  • All About The Pretty

  • All Lacquered Up

  • Beauty 411

  • Beauty Blogging Junkie

  • Beauty Talk

  • Beautiful Makeup Search

  • Beauty Hatchery

  • Beauty Jones

  • Blogdorf Goodman

  • Canadian Beauty

  • C'est Chic

  • Coquette

  • eBeautyDaily

  • For The Love of Beauty

  • Give Me Your Eyes I Need Sunshine

  • Getting Amped

  • Grayburn

  • HauteMommaStuff

  • Koneko's Beauty Diary

  • Makeup Bag

  • The Makeup Girl

  • Miss Whoever You Are

  • My Life,My Words,My Mind

  • Legerdenez

  • Perfumista

  • Periodic Style

  • Platinum Blonde Life

  • Product Girl

  • Shop Diary

  • Slap of the Day

  • Steeping Beauty

  • The Beauty Alchemist

  • The Daily Obsession

  • The Life Of A Ladybug

  • The Non-Blonde

  • Urbane Girl

  • We Love Beauty
  • Tuesday, December 04, 2007

    Please enter below to win! The contest givaway sponsored by Coutorture will update automatically and be current, no matter what the post date is!

    Congratulations Heather!

    We have a WINNER!!!

    Yes, one of my lucky readers who entered the drawing for the Origins Giveaway, has won! See? All you have to do is enter, it's easy to win!

    Congratulations Heather!

    Wednesday, November 21, 2007

    Anné Pliska Parfums is having a special right now, from Nov 15th thru Nov 30th, with any purchase of $53.00 or more you will receive a 1/4 oz purse spray for free. One per customer while supplies last. Call the toll free number below to order.

    Anné Pliska Parfums
    1-800-959-9324

    Monday, October 29, 2007

    Please enter below to win! The contest givaway sponsored by Coutorture will update automatically and be current, no matter what the post date is!

    Wednesday, October 17, 2007

    Hello my friends! I have missed you all! I am not back by any means, but I will try to post a little more often! I wanted wish all my friends a wonderful time at the NYC Sniffapalooza this weekend!

    I also have an announcement for those of you searching for ANNE PLISKA SAMPLES, you can find them here:

    AnnePliska.com

    Saturday, June 30, 2007

    I will be taking a break from regular blogging for awhile. If you sign up for my RSS feed though Bloglines (my favorite and the easiest ) or Blogarithm, Technorati or other blog trackers, you will be informed when I do post. There are links for signing up at the bottle right of this page. For those of you who don't know, this is an easy way to track all the blogs you read in one place and to be notified of new posts.

    I will continue to answer any comments or questions posted regarding any reviews.

    Thank you all for your posts and for allowing me to be a part of your perfume experience.
    I'll be back!
    Victoria

    Friday, June 22, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Friday - 06/22/07

    Today for me is a little bargain number from Auric Blends - Plumeria. This sweet little oil lasts all day, and garners compliments all at a sweet price! Tomorrow I'm co-hosting a little sniffing party, I can't wait! I'm been work involved and not had much R & R, especially perfume R & R.

    What about you today?

    Wednesday, June 20, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Wednesday - 06/20/07

    Anne Pliska for me today. I have a dinner party to attend after work and I need something relaible and "me". What about you today?

    Tuesday, June 19, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Tuesday - 06/19/07

    Bond No 9 - The Scent Of Peace for me today. I have forgotten this beauty, I need to wear it more often. What's your choice today?

    Monday, June 18, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Monday - 06/18/07

    Sorry my friends, this has been such a busy week for me. And for the next THREE weeks I will be working FIVE days a week, the horror! After my cushy, although tiring 4-10 work week, I will be on a modified schedule of 5-8's, while my co-worker is crusing the Nothern Pacific.

    To get me through, I'm again today relying on a comforting favorite, Tolu. So rich and warm, a scent that sticks around all day and says, hang in there you'll make it!

    What's your choice to begin this week?

    Thursday, June 14, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Thursday - 06/14/07

    Wow, this week is going s.l.o.w, do you agree? For me today Serge Lutens Rousse. I'm in the mood for spicy! What is you choice for today?

    Wednesday, June 13, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Wednesday - 06/13/07

    Good Morning! Although the days have been sunny and warm, the mornings are still cool here in Southern California, so I'm reaching for Tolu. A warm enveloping scent to surround me and help me make it thought the day. What about you?

    Tuesday, June 12, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Tuesday - 06/12/07

    Well I'm attending a tea this evening - so Tea for Two would have been the correct choice, but I'm going to be a rebel and go with Cuir Beluga. What are you wearing today?

    Friday, June 08, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Friday - 06/08/07

    TGIF!! I'm wearing DK Gold again today, I just want to get through the day and head home! How about you?

    Thursday, June 07, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Thursday - 06/07/07

    Good morning! Well mystery scent week has been interruped by the arrival of my Donna Karan Gold. My lovely choice for today. What are you wearing?

    Wednesday, June 06, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Wednesday - 06/06/07

    Well I think it will be mystery scent week, as I have found another unmarked partial decant. For those wondering if I ever figured it out, I believe yesterday's scent to be Rance Josephine. I have less confidence I'll figure this one out. It is fairly orange colored and has a plasticy note. Floral and amber. What is your choice today?

    Tuesday, June 05, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Tuesday - 06/05/07

    Good morning all! I'm wearing a mystery scent today. A partial decant of which lost its label. Maybe it will come to me, but right now I have no idea. Pretty though. :O)
    What are you wearing?

    Saturday, June 02, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Weekend!

    Le Maroc for me today, I was up early and out to breakfast. What are you up this weekend?

    Friday, June 01, 2007

    Wednesday, May 30, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Wednesday - 05/30/07

    Good morning world. Today I'm wearing Neil Morris Zephyr. What are you wearing today?

    Tuesday, May 29, 2007

    Aldehyde 44 - Le Lebo - Review

    Le Labo perfumery, located in Grasse and New York, had a vision of something different for their in-store perfumery sales. Their technique blends essential oils with alcohol and water at the time of purchase. Every order is made fresh right there while you wait. I'm not saying it is any better made fresh, but it sure is an interesting concept that draws the buyer into a closer relationship with the perfumer.

    Today I am testing the exclusive Aldehyde 44. (By the way, the number in the fragrance name refers to the number of notes that make up the scent's composition.) The reason I say exclusive is that this fragrance is part of a marketing strategy that has us perfume lovers quite in a frenzy. Aldehyde 44 was made for and is only available in Dallas, Texas. Le Labo started this exclusive campaign with Tuberose 40 which is only available in NYC. No phone or internet sales, you must track down a live body in NYC or Dallas to make the purchase and send it to you. Not a challenge for a seasoned perfumista, but an obstacle to be sure. And, there are plans to add more city-exclusive scents. So more scurrying will ensue.

    Aldehyde 44 is a beautiful, classic, aldehydic floral. One I would love to own and hope to one day. I warn you, I'm a push over for aldehydic florals so it was easy for me to fall. I'm testing this from a vial and can only imagine how lovely will be sprayed; the manner aldehydes are meant to be experienced. The opening is a fresh and bright bouquet of florals. As it settles in, the florals begin to get creamier and the indoles come into (or should I say - out to) play. Not too strong as they are tempered and smoothed by a woodsy, musky, powder. Very nicely composed. Now who do I know in Dallas?? Hummm.

    Notes: Aldehydes, tuberose absolute, narcissus absolute, jasmin sambac, musks & woods

    Only available at Barneys - Dallas, TX

    Photos from: Le Labo

    Scent of the Day - Tuesday - 05/29/07

    Ayy, back to work. Aldehyde 44 for me today, What are you wearing?

    Friday, May 25, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Friday - 05/25/07

    So glad it's Friday! What is your choice for today?

    I'm wearing The Different Company Osmanthus today. There is a beautiful light peppery feel to this one that I Love.

    Notes from Luckyscent: Osmanthus fragrans (China), leaf green, bergamot, orange, tangerine, rose, rose bay, castoreum, hay, musk

    Thursday, May 24, 2007

    Virtuessence of Esther - Virtue & Valor, Inc. - Review


    Oh my, have you seen such a lovely bottle? Have you seen such a beautiful website? Have you heard such a worthy business approach?

    The Virture & Valor company has set out to be different from the rest. To honor a higher calling. Partial wording from their website states, "We are motivated by the virtuous women of the Bible and want the women of today to see themselves in them as they triumphantly faced their fears, endured their hardships with valor, walked in the strength of God, and embodied virtue. "Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a women who fears the Lord, she shall be praised" (Proverbs 31:30)." Please read more about their creedo here: ABOUT US

    How refreshing! Inspired by Queen Esther - her integrity, strength and beauty. Not only is this a lovely sentiment, but it is a tribute to all women. And may I say how beautiful the fragrance is, how elegant and truly worthy of praise. The notes so perfectly chosen, from the symbolic pure lily opening to the gifted frankincense in the base. It really is a beautiful composition, I'm sure that most of you will love. And who wouldn't love owning that beautiful bottle? Just think what a lovely gift this would make. I might just have to give one to myself! Samples are free from the website with a nominal postage fee. I urge you check out the website and read the tempting description of Queen Esther on the page tabbed "Esther", then sample this little beauty and see for yourself.

    Top notes: Lily, Orange, Ylang
    Middle notes: Cinnamon, Ginger, Jasmine, Clove
    Base notes: Vanilla, Amber, Musk, Patchouli, Frankincense, Sandalwood

    Images and text from: Virtue & Valor

    Scent of the Day - Thursday - 05/24/07

    Virtuessence of Esther for me. What are you wearing today?

    Wednesday, May 23, 2007

    Tuesday, May 22, 2007

    Shalini - Review

    Ahhh ... I smell completely, deliciously, lovely today! And you can too for only $900! Well if you want to cheap-out you can only spend $400, but hey at this price might as well go for the Lalique falcon. Life is short, right?

    Is it that good, you say? Well unfortunately, yes. It is complex and deep while still managing somehow to be delicate and tender. Created by Maurice Roucel the notes include tuberose, neroli, tiare, sandalwood and musk. I'm rather surprised to find there is tuberose in here, it is a quite tame non-indolic tuberose, rather sweet and fresh. Overall it's a lovely bouquet of perfectly composed flowers resting on a soft base of sandalwood and musk. Sexy and understatedly elegant.

    Like I mentioned to a poster the other day, I do struggle in my mind with the idea of the exclusivity and price tag, does it serve to influence? I try to think not, but on some level it has to. I wish it were available in non-crystal and perhaps an EDP version. It does lay a bit close to the skin, which adds to its sensuality, but I would prefer it to surround me.

    If you are like me, you too can be queen for a day by purchasing a sample and lavishing the whole thing on yourself in one dose, one perfect day to enjoy this lovely parfum as if you owned it.

    Now if you have the big bucks, you may purchase 1oz in the more plain crystal bottle for $400, or pay $900 for the limited edition butterfly wing design Lalique falcon which contains 2.2oz.

    Availabe at: Aedes

    Scent of the Day - Tuesday - 05/22/07

    Ohhh I am queen Shalini today! Please come forward, speak to me of your fragrance today my loyal subjects, I command you!

    Friday, May 18, 2007

    Thursday, May 17, 2007

    Wednesday, May 16, 2007

    Friday, May 11, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Friday - 05/11/07

    Today the whole office is offsite working our Charity Golf Tournament. I chose Anne Pliska for today. We are in for a long day, 12 hours usually. So instead of TGIF this week, it will be TGIS!
    What are you wearing?

    Thursday, May 10, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Thursday - 05/10/07

    Another crazy day at work today, we are hosting a charity golf tournament on Friday and there is so much to do still! I choose DKNY Energizing Woman for today. I'm sincerely hoping it will help! What are you wearing today?

    Tuesday, May 08, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Tuesday - 05/08/07

    Today I'm in the mood for an old favorite, Roberto Cavalli Perfumo - the tall pink bottle with the clear snake top. A great soft spicy, sweet powdery amber. Although I don't mention it often, this is number two on my all time hit list.
    What are you wearing today?

    Gendarme - Sky


    I'm still anxiously awaiting release of this new Gendarme scent - SKY. Here is the first look at the bottle, and a hint at the notes. News of the debut says late May, according to the press release below:

    "At first it seems extremely simple and fresh. The water lily and white amber revolve around warm woods and Spanish moss, then the underlying caress of soft leather that's shiny, spicy and downright passionate... Even during the day there are thousands of stars in the sky.

    In Late May, Gendarme SKY will debut at select stores... but you can get it first. Get a FREE* 1oz bottle with every purchase of $100.00 or more.

    Keep checking our website, gendarme.com, when or where SKY will be available."
    (*while supplies last)

    You can read my review of SKY by clicking here: SKY - GENDARME - REVIEW

    Monday, May 07, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Monday - 05/07/07

    Undecided toady - Maybe Le Maroc.
    What are you wearing today?

    Jojoelle - Formerly Green Lady Soap




    Some of you may remember The Green Lady Soap Company. They made wonderful dupes and great matching lotions. Well they were missing for some time and after sniffing around a bit, I finally talked to the new ower who took over the store. She said she would let me know when they re-open. It has been some time since I spoke with her, and now the shop called Jojoelle, is open.

    Here is a quote from Jojoelle regarding the transition: "As many of you know, we recently took over the scents and formulas of Green Lady Soap. We are currently carrying GLS' popular fragrances in addition to some of our own creations. Our perfumes, perfume oils and soaps are the exact formulas you came to love from Green Lady Soap, and have not been changed. We have not yet released GLS made-from-scratch lotions and creams. We are still currently testing them and have selected wonderful replacements in the mean time. Cold process soaps will be available in late April. Please let us know if there is a former product or fragrance you would like to see. We may already have it and would be happy to make it for you or can order it. If you have any questions regarding the products, please contact us."

    You can buy samples by buying the perfume trio, which includes three 1/2 dram vials in your choice of scents available in perfume or perfume oil. The great thing about this shop is the ability to get matching lotions to some of your designer scents, which may not be offered, or the prices are too high. I have listed just a few that I thought might pique some interest. Especially the Chinatown dupe and iPdf, since lotions are not available for these by the maker.




    Amber Nepal - Compare to Ambra Del Nepal
    Blue Sicily - Compare to Light Blue
    Childlike - Compare to Child
    Dark Vetiver - Compare to Black Vetyver Cafe
    In Full Bloom - Compare to Flowerbomb
    Lemon Sugar - Compare to Fresh
    Little China - NEW! Compare to Chinatown by Bond 9
    Madagascar Vanilla - Compare to Vaniglia Del Madagascar
    Pink Candy Lane - Compare to Pink Sugar
    Sparkling Sugar - Compare to Sugar by Fresh
    Stranger Things - Compare to Alien
    Tainted Charm - Compare to Hypnotic Poison
    Vanilla Banana - Compare to Vanille Banane
    White Lava Beach - Compare to Fire Island by Bond 9

    Free Shipping on ALL orders!
    Receive free shipping* on ALL US orders between May 7th and 31st! Use code MAYFREE07
    *We reserve the right to use the shipping carrier and method of our choice during free shipping events.

    Click here to go to the website: Jojoelle

    Saturday, May 05, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Weekend!

    Les Parfums de Rosine - La Rose
    For me today.
    What are you wearing today?

    Switching to Anne Pliska for a party this evening. Don't really want to go, maybe this will help.

    Friday, May 04, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Friday - 05/04/07

    Valentino Rock 'N Rose for me today. I like this one, one of the better fruity florals out there.
    What are you wearing on this fabulous Friday?

    Thursday, May 03, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Thursday - 05/03/07

    Craving Reverie au jardin again this morning. What are you wearing?

    Black Violet - Tom Ford - Review

    Oh my goodness how can it be that I love two of the new Tom Ford Collection and I've yet to sniff them all? The line I had no interest in is suddenly beginning to feel like the ultimate dresser set. If I buy them all do I get the tray at least, or is that another grand?

    I am trying to convince myself that this one is too similar to my precious Armani Prive Cuir Amethyste. Yet is scares me to think, might it be better? After all I do love my Amethyste, but I fear that formula I own no longer exists and was tweaked to be more masculine. This one is violets and woods and something that smells like cold cream. The fruits seems to make it juicy without actually smelling fruity. It is irresistible and I cannot keep from sniffing my wrist.

    Notes: citrus, pulpy fruit accord, black violet, woody notes, oakmoss

    Wednesday, May 02, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Wednesday - 05/02/07

    Today I think I will use the last drops of my TFPC Amber Absolute. I will be buying this one.
    :O)
    What are you wearing today?

    Tuesday, May 01, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Tuesday - 05/01/07

    Happy May Day! Today I'm wearing Ormonde Jayne Frangipani. I was inspirded to wear it when Andy Tauer mentioned Frangipani.
    What are you wearing today?

    Amber Absolute - Tom Ford - Review

    I have to say I find myself quite amazed to be sitting here and sniffing this delicious aroma that is Tom Ford Amber Absolute. I had absolutely no intent of even buying a sample set after the letdown of the Chanels and considering the price of these offerings. Yet, how could I not sniff when a generous friend handed over her sample set to me? It is perfumista law to sniff. And sniff I did.

    Immediately I proclaimed, "I must have this." When an amber is so quintessentially perfect it gives you goose bumps when you sniff it, you must own it. There is a smoky note in the top that usually would turn me away but here it is perfectly blended becoming one with the amber. Slowly it softens into a soft, woody, incensey amber. It is stunning.

    Swoonworthy is my final verdict to all my fellow amber lovers. Be forwarned, save your pennies or do not sniff at all.

    Notes: amber, African incense, labdanum, rich woods, and vanilla bean

    Monday, April 30, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Monday - 04/30/07

    For me today Reverie au jardin again. I can't beleive how much iris I get from this one, it just blooms on me. Just beautiful!

    What are you wearing today?

    Friday, April 27, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Weekend

    Trying out the Tom Ford Collection and still on my perfumista hgh from meeting Andy Tauer - What are you up to?

    Thursday, April 26, 2007

    Wow, what a perfect afternoon and evening! Doing what I love to do; talk about perfumes with people who think like me. And today getting to meet a perfumer all the way from Switzerland, Andy Tauer. The Scent Bar in Los Angeles hosted this meet & greet, and my friend Debbie and I were the first to arrive! So we so got to take pictures and speak one on one with Andy. I must say he is so nice, such a sweet person, so easy to talk to. And since we have corresponded with each other over the internet, it was like meeting an old friend. My head is still spinning and as some of you have noted, I've not been keen on writing lately. Well actually it is more like the words just no longer come. Writers block or drought is more like it. But my perfume rush is still flowing and the last thing I want to do right now is sleep.

    Andy told us the story of how he got started as a perfumer and brought along some absolute notes that make up the composition of his new fragrance, Reverie au jardin. You will be fascinated to know that reading Mandy Aftel's book on a trip to Kenya started it all. That and a little seduction by a frangipani tree that stirred his senses and made him think that he would like to try making some fragrances. And to that we are eternally thankful! It was interesting to smell the notes separated one by one and how beautifully they come together in this lovely new fragrance. Scent strips were passed around, bottles were autographed, we talked and laughed and shared our passion. It was perfect.

    Afterwards several of us girls went to dinner and basked in the afterglow of this warm and friendly encounter. Still marveling at the fact, that yes, there are many of us out there with a common bond, this undeniable passion for fragrance.

    You can read my review of the new Andy Tauer Scent by clicking the link below. This fragrance is fabulous, and even if you think you don't like lavender, this may be the one to make you change your mind. Just beautiful -

    Reverie au jardin Review

    Scent of the Day - Thursday - 04/26/07

    NO SCENT for me today! Why?? Because I have the privilege of attending the Meet and Greet for Andy Tauer this evening at the Scent Bar in Los Angeles! Woohoo!!! (Well I may put a little Le Maroc on my neck just for the occasion) :O)
    Taking off work early, it's going to be a great day! What are you wearing?

    Wednesday, April 25, 2007

    Coney Island - Bond No. 9 - Review

    Here in usually sunny Southern California, Spring seems to be noncommittal; one day calling for sandals the next for boots. It has never really felt like Spring for any length of time. Now that it is almost May, we are all wondering when it will come. But one whiff of Coney Island, Spring is bypassed and suddenly Summer is here!

    Opening with a tangy margarita note to make your mouth water, with eyes closed, one can even imagine salt on the rim. At the same time there is a slight beachy aspect, or do I just imagine that as well? Whatever it is, it's quite bewitching and I've fallen completely under its spell. This will feel icy cool in the heat of the summer most assuredly. The composition eventually mellows into a very delish, lightly fruity, citrus that wears beautifully throughout the day. On my skin the mid notes never really appeared, not that I'm complaining. I had everyone in my office take a mandatory arm sniff and all agreed it smells quite delicious. Light vanilla and light wood appear much later in the drydown. Maybe on others the mid notes will appear, but I'm perfectly happy the way this one develops on me. I think it will work well for most. Another great, must have Summer scent! I have included the notes below that read like a summer cottage shopping list, as well as Bond's press release for your reading pleasure.

    FROM BOND NO. 9:
    First the Hamptons… then Fire Island… now Coney Island:
    When it Comes to Summer Scents and Explosive Fun, Bond No. 9 is Covering All the New York Beaches.

    What is the smell of fun—and how do you bottle it? That was our mission at Bond No. 9 when we decided to capture the essence of Coney Island and turn it into an eau de parfum. Why Coney Island? We were intrigued by the vintage allure of this century-old fantasy-land with its honky-tonk chic, its Mermaid Parade, its incomparable hotdog haven (Nathan’s Famous) fronting the Atlantic Ocean along Brooklyn’s southernmost edge. But we wanted to celebrate its future, too, just as a formidable revival is getting under way.

    Coney Island isn’t just any amusement park. In its early 20th century heyday, New York’s premier people’s playground was a rowdy, mind-numbing pleasure-mecca that more than matched the energies of the city that contained it. Its daredevil rides—the legendary nine-hill Cyclone roller coaster … the Wonder Wheel … the freefall Parachute Jump—set a fevered, frantic pace, while its bathing pavilions were more like phantasmagorical gilded palaces that shimmered in the air. Not to forget the raucous nightspots. For a city that where glancing at strangers for more than two seconds has always been an impertinence, here was an escape hatch—a Bacchanalia where one and all had free rein to scream together in terror and joy. Sure, in recent decades Coney Island fell into decline, but today it is decidedly on the upswing, with brand new rides, a water park, and a mammoth glass atrium in the works.

    Bond No 9’s Coney Island conjures up both the magical history and the reawakening of this beachfront paradise. Combined in this contemporary gourmand delight are the sugar-cool notes of margarita mix, hypnotically seductive chocolate and caramel, plus cedarwood. The high-voltage blue bottle recalls the Coney Island’s expanse of sea and sky, while the contrasting gold neck evokes the thousands of electric lights that once lit up its night sky.

    Launch Date: June 1st 2007

    Top Notes:
    MARGARITA MIX, with fiery tequila blanco already poured in
    Un-humble MELON that goes way beyond fruit salad
    Freshly-ripened GUAVA that’s naughty but sweet

    Mid Notes:
    CINNAMON win sensual mode (fougedaboud apple pie)
    CHOCOLATE – the stimulant with the tasty mega-kick
    Pour-able CARAMEL, out to intoxicate

    Bottom Notes:
    Decadent, unredeemed MUSK
    VANILLA that’s not minding its manners
    Cool and collected CEDARWOOD … because somebody’s got to put on the brakes
    Mellow SANDALWOOD, like settling down after a pulse-quickening roller coaster ride

    Bond No. 9 - Website

    Scent of the Day - Wednesday - 04/25/07

    Today I'm wearing Bvlgari Amethyste.
    What are you wearing?

    Tuesday, April 24, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Tuesday - 04/24/07

    The new Bond Coney Island for me again today. I'm trying to get my review written, but I can't seem to get to the heart notes.

    What are you wearing today?

    Monday, April 23, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Monday - 04/23/07

    Today I'm wearing Bond No. 9 - Coney Island. Really a great summer scent! My review to follow shortly.

    What are you wearing today?

    Yesterday I went to San Diego to the Nordstrom Fragrance Festival, and to visit my friend Tara and celebrate her Birthday. As usual the fragrance festival was not as much fun as the shoe and jewelry shopping and just hanging out with my friend. The last several times it has been rather disappointing, maybe because we have tried everything. No niche at this Nordstrom store and the mainstream stuff just isn't that exiting I guess. We tried the new Miss Boucheron, too fruity, and the new Issey Summer which was green, but so light and disappointing. Then there was ckIN2U her which was eh. Many items being touted as "new" which of course to us perfumistas were not new at all. I mean please ... Kors Island Hawaii? Betsy Johnson? Is that all ya got?

    There were three new Givenchy Harvest scents which proved to be the most interesting offerings. They have taken Organza and added orange blossom, Very Irresistible and added rose, Amarige with ylang ylang. Quick reviews to follow shortly.

    Tara and I agreed the Organza was the best one. Still not remarkable enough to buy, but if you love Organza, you'll be in for a treat. The bottles are very nice. Classic and uniform, and they were offering a great bag GWP, but we were strong.

    Not so strong in the shoe department though. :O)

    Sunday, April 22, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Weekend

    No fragrance for me today, I'm off to a sniffing day in San Diego!

    I'll be back Monday with the details and a review of Bond's new one: Coney Island.

    Friday, April 20, 2007

    Thursday, April 19, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Thursday - 04/19/07

    Narcisse Noir for me today. I just recently discovered this beauty and bought a bottle. Caron is not my favorite house, but now I have three. :O)
    What are you wearing this lovely Thursday-almost-Friday morning?

    Wednesday, April 18, 2007

    Tuesday, April 17, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Tuesday - 04/17/07

    Today I'm wearing Chanel No 18. I think it will be a Chanel week.
    What are you wearing?

    Monday, April 16, 2007

    Friday, April 13, 2007

    Reverie au jardin - Tauer Perfumes - Review

    I will start by saying lavender is not my thing. So as much as I appreciate Andy Tauer's craftsmanship, I was scared this would be very un-me. But on the contrary, this is very me. On my skin the lavender make the briefest of appearances then runs for the hills. Suddenly the iris bursts forth in powdery blooms. It is beautiful, warm and sexy. The powdery softness with a hint of rose makes one think of well-clad dressing tables of yore, with their rose water in bottles and round canisters of finely milled powders.

    I get a soapy, clean, powdery presence with glimpses of florals that float in and out. As if your bathroom opened on to your garden, and you could lay in the tub with full view to your garden, the summer breeze blowing in the delicate wisps of scents. A lovely daydream.

    It does lay close to the skin and reminds one more of clean soap and powdered skin, rather than something sprayed on the skin. Well done Andy, when you seduce, you do it masterfully. I am quite in love.

    The perfumer, Andy Tauer says, "I love lavender, in all its facets ranging from herbaceous, spicy green notes to sweet, clean flowers and woody, vibrant chords. I wanted to create a fragrance that captures this complexity and transform it into a perfume. A perfume that melts into the skin, and makes me dream of green lands and twinkling stars. The notesThe head notes are very green and fresh- lavender (high altitude mountain lavender from France, galbanum and fir balm with bergamot and rose absolute from Bulgaria softening the herbaceous lavender. They lead over to a musky, fresh heart note (frankincense from India and ambrette seeds) with a woody and flowery orris line.The body note is the most complex part of the scent, being a soft, and airy wood accord (vetiver, tonka beans, oakmoss). Hints of vanilla and ambergris, sandalwood and cedar wood play into a balsamic tone that seems to last for ever."

    With any luck I will be able to meet with Andy when he comes to the Scent Bar in Los Angeles, and I am very much looking forward to that! Click here for more information on that event: Scent Bar

    At this time Reverie au jardin is available for Pre-Order at Lucky Scent.

    Photos: Tauer Perfumes, Better Homes and Gardens

    Scent of the Day - Friday 04-13-07

    Today Reverie au Jardin - again - so lovely! And soon I will meet the perfumer in person! How exciting, yes?
    What is your choice for this lovely Friday?

    Thursday, April 12, 2007

    Wednesday, April 11, 2007

    Tuesday, April 10, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Tuesay - 04/10/07

    Ormonde Jayne Osmanthus for me today - I'm forcing Spring on this cool overcast morning.
    What are you wearing?

    Monday, April 09, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Monday - 04/09/07

    Be sure to enter the drawing below for the give away! Even though it says "Sign Up" it really means ENTER the drawing, that is if you choose not to get email.

    I just can seem to decide on a scent today - I'm home just doing chores.

    What about you?

    Saturday, April 07, 2007

    Friday, April 06, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Friday 04-06-07

    Happy Friday people - Happy Good Friday!
    Fragonard Belle de Nuit Parfum for me today - What are you wearing?

    Wednesday, April 04, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Wednesday 04-04-07

    Oy! Late again today. I have no excuses.
    Andy Tauer's new one again for me today. I just can't find the words to write up the review. I have serious writer's block. But it is lovely. I'll be buying a full bottle ASAP.
    What are you wearing today?

    Tuesday, April 03, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Tuesday 04-03-07

    Oh my I'm so behind today! I ran out of the house with no fragrance! Lucky for me I have a stash in my purse. So I'll be wearing PG Bois Copaiba.
    What are you wearing today?

    Monday, April 02, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Monday 04-02-07

    Do tell how was the NYC SNIFFA??
    Today I'm wearing Andy Tauer's new one:
    Reverie au jardin
    Official word - It is DELISH!!!

    Friday, March 30, 2007

    Thursday, March 29, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Thursday 03-29-07

    Cuir Beluga for me today. How did I dismiss this one earlier?
    Insanity. It is beyond lovely.
    What are you wearing today?

    Wednesday, March 28, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Wednesday 03-28-07

    Diptyque Oyedo - Wow this one is very different! Yuzu, mint and thyme.
    What are you wearing today?

    Tuesday, March 27, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Tuesday 03-27-07

    Today again Fresh's new one Hesperides.
    What are you wearing?
    My Dad was born in Louisville, Kentucky. He pronounced his birthplace as "lou-a-vol", or something close to that.

    He pronounced Ohio - "a-hi-a".

    On this his birthday - March 27, 1914
    I thought I'm pay tribute to some of the things he loved:

    Mail Pouch Tobacco
    Wiedemann Beer
    Cincinnati Reds Baseball
    Geography
    Bulk chocolate
    Coconuts
    Cheese
    Raisin Bran
    Squirrel hunting
    Guns
    German
    One arm pushups
    Chryslers
    Bees
    Snakes
    Cats
    Fast cars
    Muscle t-shirts
    Conductor caps
    Tracking the weather
    Lawrence Welk
    Gunsmoke
    Being underestimated
    Sleeping in late
    Me

    Monday, March 26, 2007

    Friday, March 23, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Friday 03-23-07

    TGIF! - It's been a crazy busy week for me.
    Today I'm wearing the new Summer Edition Pleasures
    What are you wearing?

    Thursday, March 22, 2007

    Wednesday, March 21, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Wednesday 03-21-07

    Ack! I am so busy! Busy at work, busy at home! I'll try and check in later today.
    Today I'm wearing Malie Hawaii parfum.
    What are you wearing?

    Tuesday, March 20, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Tuesday 03-20-07

    Today I'm wearing Parfumerie Generale -
    Private Collection: Bois de Copaiba
    What are you wearing?

    Monday, March 19, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Monday 03-19-07

    Oh busy day for me - so late in posting. Just sampling today and doing lots and lots of decanting!

    What are you wearing today, on this beautiful day when the swallows come back to Capistrano, and the buzzards return to Hinkley, Ohio?

    Saturday, March 17, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Weekend

    Sunday: Oh my gosh, I missed St. Patrick's Day!! I forgot to wear green and I didn't even get pinched! What is the world coming to? Well happy St Patrick's Day Weekend to all you Irish and Irish for the day!
    Saturday: Well I'm just puttering around the house today - trying several new samples. Amoung them the MDCI line and some new Parfumerie Generale and the new Creed Island Water.

    What are you up to today?

    Friday, March 16, 2007

    40º à l’Ombre - Satallite - Review

    If you like Pamplelune, you will love this one. They share a very prominent note. You know the one? Need I say more? Like Momma always said ... oh never mind. Sparkling and bubbly but wayyyy more grapefruit than orange, if you know what I mean. And I suspect you do.

    "A light and sparkling scent
    like an icy zest.
    A bubble of freshness.
    Orange Mirage! Infinitely Orange!"

    LuckyScent interprets the name to mean 40 degrees in the shade. I like Satellite's description ... Orange "Mirage".

    Notes: Lemon, orange, bergamot, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender, geranium, musk, sandalwood, patchouli

    Available in the USA at:
    LuckyScent

    In Europe at:
    SatelliteParis.Com

    credits: LuckyScent & SatelliteParis.com

    Corrida - Satellite - Review

    Smelling suspiciously plummy for a non-plum scent, the black current must be working overtime or there are some notes missing here. Deep raspberry is present too, bringing to mind Emanuel Ungaro Apparition but ... not. This may be a favorite of red fruit lovers, but the rich deep fruit played against the creamy sandalwood is making me queasy. Ripe fruit sitting in a wooden bowl in the sun all day at the bull fight. I'm trying to see the romance. As for animal torture, don't even get me started.

    Googling around, I had hoped to fine some other meaning for Corrida with no luck. Although there was a car with a red corrida paint job. And guess what? Locked inside, sitting in the sun, was a bowl of very hot fruit.

    "Red flowers and red fruits.
    Definitely red, Red Corrida,
    for a fragrance rich
    as a dress made of light.
    We all will be Aficionados!"

    Here again we find vibrantly colored juice and a bottle that is oh so collection worthy. Don't let my review scare you off. If you love red fruits and a creamy finish this might work for you.

    I would have liked a Sangria scent better, red fruits and citrus, a little vodka. Forget the florals and the bull. Literally.

    Notes: Black currant, neroli, rose, lily of the valley, jasmine, floral accord, sandalwood

    Available in the USA at:
    LuckyScent

    In Europe at:
    SatelliteParis.Com

    credits: LuckyScent & SatelliteParis.com

    Scent of the Day - Friday 03-16-07

    TGIF!! Le Maroc for me today. I noticed in my Czech & Speake 88 yesterday a nice Rose Otto note that reminded me of Le Maroc.

    What are you wearing?

    Thursday, March 15, 2007

    A la figue! - Satallite - Review

    My second favorite of the Satallite new releases is a bit hard for a non-fig-lover to admit. Not fully understanding how "green" most fig scents are, this seems pretty green to me. Crisp and twiggy and at the same time cool and smooth as glass. There is a milky, creamy note that never gets too heavy or rich. I can feel my figgy friends swooning over my words. Yes, go ahead, buy it. And I'll take a decant please!

    "Intense memory of a summer night
    Hammock under the fig tree.
    The magic moment of the scents come out,
    underling with purple the horizon."

    Again nice bottle, but the juice is so pale! They should have gone for a deep purple-red juice or even green in keeping with the vibrant theme. Cute little purple gem dangles.

    Notes: Fig tree sap, fresh fig, iris, white lily of the valley, cyclamen, vanilla, cedar, white musk, patchouli

    Available in the USA at:
    LuckyScent

    In Europe at:
    SatelliteParis.Com

    credits: LuckyScent & SatelliteParis.com

    Scent of the Day - Thursday 03-15-07

    Today I'm wearing CZECH & SPEAKE NO. 88 - What are you wearing?

    Wednesday, March 14, 2007

    Ipanema - Satellite - Review

    Ahhh I close my eyes and I breathe in - Ipanéma.
    The warm breeze of summertime in Rio, toes in hot summer sand, the salty smell of the sea on my skin. My tall drink at hand and all is right with the world.

    A delicate blending of the notes renders the composition just perfect. Not to salty, not too ozone, not too fruity or sweet. Like a soft sexy whisper again your skin, it's dreamy and exotic, and downright sexy.

    "As a seashell polished by the wave
    The turquoise smell of the ocean around a sand bank
    Lying in the sun, pleasure of the beach ...
    Blue foam of a summer romance "

    As if the tantalizing description is not enough, feast your eyes on the vivid turquoise juice and the bottle topped with beach jewelry charms. If this isn't enough to make a winter-bored perfumista buy unsniffed, I don't know what will.

    Notes: Ylang, orange, grapefruit, freesia, sandalwood, coco, white flowers, tonka bean, vanilla, sea accord, patchouli

    If Fire Island was a little too lotion smelling for you, try this little escape to Rio.

    Available in the USA at:
    LuckyScent

    In Europe at:
    SatelliteParis.Com

    credits: LuckyScent & SatelliteParis.com

    Scent of the Day - Wednesday 03-14-07

    Today I'm wearing Ipanema and dreaming of Summer Vacation.

    What are you wearing?

    Tuesday, March 13, 2007

    Monday, March 12, 2007

    Rousse - Serge Lutens - Review

    Ahhh my recent clove addiction has found me delighted in several new fragrances I don't know how I lived without. One of which is Serge Lutens newest - Rousse.

    I know this is supposed to be mainly a cinnamon infused scent, but I get clove. Lots of clove, simmering pots of potpourri at Christmas, orange studded clove pomanders, and yes cinnamon. Dry cinnamon sticks stirred into hot cider. Foody and rich gourmand spicy, mouthwatering and reminiscent of my childhood.

    Some of you may remember my reference to my childhood experiments in my Grandmother's kitchen with my grade school friend Marcia. We loved to cook and bake as a diversion over the long summer vacation. One speciality was adding clove to orange Jell-O. A lot of clove. The taste was ummm … interesting. But the smell … divine. These scents bring back those smells from my Grandmother’s kitchen some 40 years ago. They are poignant and bittersweet.

    I know some have been disappointed in this scent, and I think I know why. My guess is by the notes, what people may have been expecting was a dry, spicy, woody fragrance. But rather, they are greeted by a strong, foody, gourmand. Ahh well, their loss is my gain. I am sitting here with my nose glued to my arm on this warm and sunny spring-like day drifting back to those summers in Ohio and my Grandmother's kitchen.

    I LOVE The Scented Salamander's Review where she identifies the "Tiger Balm accord" that is the theme of Heeley Spirit of the Tiger, another strongly scented clove fragrance that I find irrestible. Read her review here: The Scented Salamander

    Notes:
    Top: Floral Notes, Aromatic Notes, Fruit
    Middle note : Cinnamon-Wood Note, Spices
    Base note : Amber, Musks, Vanilla

    Scent of the Day - Monday 03-12-07

    Today I'm wearing SL Rousse.

    What are you wearing?

    Saturday, March 10, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Weekend

    No fragrance for me today as I was on the way to the Sniffa!
    What are you wearing today?

    Read below the Local Orange County Sniffa Details!

    Local Orange County Sniffa Details!

    I'm just back from our local area Sniffa! What F U N !! I really can't stress enough if you don't attend these you are really missing out. We all have a common bond, and it feels warm and fuzzy to be with these people who feel like old friends. I met some of these MUA gals at the LA Sniffapalooza. And some are local here in my area and we have never met! But now we will be in touch!

    So we began at the Chanel boutique. Eh. I believe the consensus was that looking at the entire collection of ten, we already own our favorites. Most of us love Bois Des Iles and No 22. I love Gardenia too and many love Cuir de Russe. No one bought any, although most agreed they were nice.

    Then on to SAKS to hit the Bond counter. Our Saks is in the middle of a remodel so the fragrances were a bit jammed in and most of the Bond urns were missing, but all the testers were there so we did a lot of sniffing. We tried the new Bill Blass, another tuberose base that put me off. Most of the time was spent at Bond. And those who did buy got in on the final day of the Saks beauty GWP.

    Whew! Now a much needed brake for our noses and some refreshments we hijacked some tables outside The Coffee Bean and took over. It was nice to get to know each other a little better instead of all perfume talk.

    On to Coach for some of us - the new Coach signature scent is a nice white floral. It starts out sweet and slightly fresh, and dries down a little creamy with the tuberose coming up. I liked it better before the drydown. Everyone agreed it was "nice" also.

    Then on to the Nordstrom Niche where the lovey SA and Manager, Lynda, had goodie bags waiting for us. My Nordstrom is just the best! Caron, The Different Co, Guerlain, Annick Goutal, Armani Prive, Amarouge, Etro, CSP, Hermes - just to name a few!! There was a raffle for two gorgeous full size posters from the movie Perfume. Oh I would have loved to be in on a fix for that one! Here I purchased the new Marc Jacobs Splash in Orange - which I have previously scoped out on Wednesday night during my pre-sniffa-sniffa. :O)

    With hugs and promises to do this again, we said our goodbyes with happy hearts and the knowledge we all will do this again. :O)

    Friday, March 09, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Friday 03-09-07

    I'm just testing some samples today - tomorrow I am going to a mini-sniffa here in my area. I hope to get to some reviews next week!
    What are you wearing today?

    Thursday, March 08, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Thursday 03-08-07

    Good Morning! I'm late checking in due to my little late night sniffa!
    What are you wearing?

    Tuesday, March 06, 2007

    Monday, March 05, 2007

    New Release - Coach

    Coach announces their new Signature Scent. The bottle is nice I wonder how it will be? The only description is that it's a "soft floral". I'll try and get a sniff later this week. The price is $68 and Coach says it is "Perfume" - New 1.7 OZ PERFUME SPRAY. Humm makes one wonder at that price doesn't it?

    Here is what they have to say about that: "There are several types of fragrances; perfume, eau de parfum and eau de toilettes. The type of fragrance depends on the concentration of scents or amount of oils used in the fragrance. Coach’s fragrance is a perfume which has the highest concentration of perfume oils, making the scent last longer."

    There is also a Purse Spray at $42 and a Solid Perfume at $40



    Image & Text: Coach press release

    Scent of the Day - Monday 03-05-07

    I think I'm going with SL Rousse today. Working on a review to follow.
    What are you wearing?

    Sunday, March 04, 2007

    Happy Anniversary to my Blog!
    It all started TWO Years ago today.
    I got off to a slow start, but here I am still standing!

    Saturday, March 03, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Weekend!!

    Sunday: I'm wearing Keiko Mecheri Myrrhe & Merveilles. I am on the verge of selling my last half of this bottle. It is strange, so aldehydic, yet sometimes I do love it. I think it is not really me, but it is unique. What are you wearing today?
    Saturday: Well I just got a big ole bottle of Krazy Kritzia and have been going a little Krazy with it. How about you? What are you wearing today?

    Thursday, March 01, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Friday 03-02-07

    FINALLY!! I have been locked out of my blog for two mornings now due to Blogger's Spamming Blocker thinking my Blog is a Spammer Blog! Very frustrating! The waiting, which I thought would be just a few hours. Just a warning to other Blogger format blogs.
    I'm wearing Roma today.
    What are you wearing?

    Wednesday, February 28, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Wednesday 02-28-07

    Well back to work I go, but it's a short week! I enjoyed Tolu so much yesterday I'm wearing it again today. It is definitely in my top 10. Maybe top 5. Love this!

    What are you wearing today?

    Tuesday, February 27, 2007

    Sunday, February 25, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Weekend

    Today - Sunday - I'm just testing some samples.
    Still haven't figured out what I want to do for fun!

    What are you up to today & what are you wearing?

    Friday, February 23, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Friday 02-23-07

    Yay!! FOUR-day weekend ahead for me!! Today I'm wearing my new Space.NK Melodrama that I scooped up on eBay for a song. So happy!!!

    What are you wearing today?

    Thursday, February 22, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Thursday 02-22-07

    Today I'm wearing one of my favorites from the Chanel Exclusifs - Lucky for me, I already own it! No. 22.
    What are you wearing?

    Wednesday, February 21, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Wednesday 02-21-07

    I'm wearing Czech & Speake 88, the hot fragrance at the Apothia portion of the Sniffapalooza. Thanks Raphaella!

    What are you wearing today?

    Tuesday, February 20, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Tuesay - 02/20/07

    Ok, back to work today and headed to a 4-day weekend, yay!!! Today I'm wearing a gorgeous but sadly discontinued Rosine, La Coupe d'Or.

    What are you wearing today??

    Happy Birthday Heikke!

    Saturday, February 17, 2007

    Chanel Re-Evaluations by Spray

    I want to add a few updates as I re-test these in the decant spray. I begin my elimination process in trying to determine if I want to plunk down the bucks for full bottles of any of these. Check back on this post over the course of the weekend, as I will add my final thoughts on each fragrance.

    Bel Respiro - I adore this, but I am not kidding the luscious vibrant green stemmy note is gone in 5 minutes or less. You are left with a very soft green, which is nice, but so close to the skin I simply cannot smell it with out pressing my nose to skin. As much as I love the beginning, this one is out of the running. I am very sad, I love what this one could have been.

    Coromandel - Definitely more presence when sprayed, as I did say, this is the longest lasting of the group.Upon spraying the benzoin comes on particularly strong. I barely noticed it when applied by vial. It really dominates here in the spray. Still not getting amber. As much as I thought by description this was the one for me, I am eliminating it also.

    Eau de Cologne - I liked this one even more upon liberal spraying, but still I'm not sure I want a gallon (oops, 400ml) of it. Lemoney and sweet, but I think you can find the same effect with longer lasting ability with Fresh's Lemon Sugar. I guess I might buy a big decant for summer if I see it on eBay.

    31 Rue Cambon - Still my favorite of the group, I am begining to think it reminds me of a cross between No 22 and Bois des Iles. Both of which I like better. Hummm.

    Friday, February 16, 2007

    Scent of the Day - Weekend

    Yay! I have made the move to the new Blogger and all seems fine! Stop by and tell me what you are wearing and what you are up to this weekend! I'm working on some Guerlain news for next week! Shhhh!!

    Today I'm wearing Bel Respiro. I got my set of Chanels in the decant sizes yesterday, so today I am lavishing them on!

    Sky - Gendarme - Review


    The newest release from Gendarme is Sky, set to debut May 2007. Those of us lucky enough to attend the LA Sniffapalooza were gifted with a generous 10ml decant PREVIEW of the lovely new scent. Not to mention getting to personally meet Topper Schroeder. I was fortunate enough to have a little chat with him at lunch and found him interesting, kind and gracious.

    The juice is a pale sky blue. No notes were given, but to my nose there is a lot of bergamot in the opening, and that being one of my favorite notes, is probably why this one is so appealing.

    Over all I would call this an "Aquatic" having said that, I began to wonder the difference between Aquatic and Ozone notes. While smelling this my initial reaction is aquatic, but with a name like Sky, I guess it would be safer to say it's an ozone note. And I must say if there is a difference in the two, my mind cannot summon the other while smelling this one. Either way you get the drift. The drydown remains aquatic, but what seems to be a peppered wood comes into play.

    I realize many are adverse to these fresh scents, but this one is very well done and I think it will be quite lovely on a Spring day, in fact it is quite lovely on this day in warm sunny Southern California today.

    For comparison you might like to read the lovely description written on the For The Love OF ... blog. Funny, my impression is this is a Feminine fragrance that might work Unisex, as you will see she feels the opposite: SKY - Review

    Scent of the Day - Friday - 02/16/07

    Today I'm wearing Gendarme Sky, my review to follow soon! What are you wearing?

    Blogger is frustrating me and it took about 20 minutes to figure out how to bypass the "Upgrade" to the NEW and Improved Blogger screen, so I feel the move is inevitable. I will give in this weekend. Wish me luck! I hope to see you Monday!


    Creative Sentualization is having a close out on some of its cremes due to a packaging change. Now is a good time to pick up one of these scrumptious cremes to match your favorite spray!

    Here is the link: Creative Sentualization

    Thursday, February 15, 2007

    Perfect Kiss - Creative Sentualization - Review


    Do you remember that perfect kiss? No not the first kiss, Steve King running up to you in the crosswalk on the way to sixth grade and planting one right on your lips. Ewww! No, I mean the Perfect one. The one that took your breath away.
    Sarah Horowitz-Thran of Creative Sentualization has now created: Perfect Kiss

    Samples of this great new fragrance were presented to us exclusively as a Pre-Release at the LA Sniffapalooza. Intended to be released to the public on Valentine's Day, unfortunately we will have to wait till Mother's Day to get our hands on a full bottle of this heavenly juice.

    I have been struggling to determine the notes. There is a chocolate note there but not in an obvious chocolate way, more the way tonka beans project chocolate, or an illusion of chocolate. I also detect hints of rose. There is an ever so slightly indolic jasmine in the base. I get a Apres L'Ondee feel at times, which make me think there may be either anise or violets involved in the fray. It is sweet like nectar but not candy sweet. Whatever it is I want it. Now.

    Please see the lovely review by For The love of ... Blog Perfect Kiss

    Photo: The Matrix 3

    Scent of the Day - Thursday - 02/15/07

    Perfect Kiss by Creative Sentualization for me today. I'm hoping my review will follow later today! What are you wearing?

    Wednesday, February 14, 2007

    Les Exclusifs de Chanel - Chanel - Review

    Les Exclusifs de Chanel is comprised of 10 fragrances. There are 6 new fragrances added to the existing 4 exclusive boutique collection which includes Cuir de Russie, Bois des Iles, Chanel no 22, and Gardenia and are created by nose Jacques Polge. Polge said that "We wanted fragrances which were unusual and special," he said, noting that while several are favorite notes, most are too costly to use in a more widely distributed scent such as the house's Chance or Coco Mademoiselle. "Above all, we tried to do fragrances which are very different from one another and very different from what is currently offered in the market. These are the ingredients [that] we simply wouldn't have in the quantity to use in a more widely distributed fragrance."

    I have reviewed the new Chanels in order of my preference - I think - at least for now:

    31 Rue Cambon - (an experimental chypre that omits the classic oakmoss note) a "dry, musky, nutty scent." Starting out a dry iris and a little woody, this one surprised me because I don't normally like this dry of a scent. But there is a hint of sweetness here that blooms in the mid notes and reminds me of a less powdery No. 22. Drying down very soft with a lightly sweet finish. Vary elegant.

    Bel Respiro - (green leaves and stems) "intended to evoke stems, leaves and springtime." Immediately on first sniff I thought Aliage. The same bold greeness. Definitely getting the cut stems here. If you are an Aliage fan, you will love this too. Unlike Aliage, unfortunately this settles down too quickly into a soft slightly sweet, green scent. Still nice, but too bad the top notes don't hang around longer.

    Coromandel - (dry ambery oriental) "an oriental fragrance using a tree resin called benzoin, which has vanilla-like properties"...Like Chanel's apartment that inspired it, it is not "innocent", it is "weighted by frankincense" and "contains a hint of the heavier spices of the East". I thought sure I would like this one best, but actually it's my third choice. A touch of Pois de Senteur and dab of Teint de Neige with a slight green notes that runs throughout. I'm not really finding any amber here.

    Eau de Cologne - "a lively floral.... with citrus, bergamot and neroli." A typical summer splash cologne with the feel of 4711 meets Fresh Sugar, then inexplicably begins turning sweeter and sweeter. Which I thought was different, but nice, since I like sweet.

    28 La Pausa - (iris)"a powdery scent based on the oil from iris pallida (known as sweet iris), one of the most expensive products available to perfumers..." "named for a house Mlle. Chanel owned in the South of France." No.31 is a nicer Iris in my book, but I guess I'm not an iris enthusiast. Starting out very dry iris, sweetening in the middle resembling Iris Poudre, then ending (way too fast I might add) with a slight green note, before fading to nothingness.

    No. 18 - (Ambrette seed)"named for the Chanel fine jewelry boutique at Place Vendome." Last on my list. Not sure what to make of this, it's not bad, but not really good either. A bit harsh and raspy in the opening, slightly peppery, then as with the others, it sweetens slightly in the drydown. Wearable, but why?

    Where to get your hands on a sample set? Some of you may know Nancy, a trusted eBay fragrance seller whom I hope you will add to your favorite sellers! Her eBay name is Fishbone96 her store is: Fishbone Fragrances.

    Lovely Nancy is selling the CHANEL EXCLUSIFS - SIX Sample Set! Small Vial sets or Decant Sets or just one or two, anything you want just ask and she will quote you. She has them all and is ready to ship now! Please email inquiries to her directly at: fishbone96@mac.com For a great price and fast shipping!

    Bottom Line - I'm surprised to find them all quite wearable. I see a common trait that runs throughout, a light sweetness that begins mid way and develops differently in each. I like sweet, but I think this will deter some. I think I'll order a decant set and wear them a couple days each before commiting to a bottle that large. Or even to sharing a bottle. The impulse is to buy a bottle or two or three of your favorites. But I think we need to step back from the hype and really consider if we love these, over what we already own, or enough to wear it often enough to justify the price and size. And another note or reminder here - they are EDT and don't last long! Yes, most can still be detected if you smoosh your nose to your arm, but I need a liberal spraying to see how they are really going to perform by mid-day on the job. Touch up decants will be required throughout the day I suspect, but then I guess 200ml will go a long way.

    The fragrances are available for $175 for 200ml and the eau de cologne for $300 for a 400ml splash bottle.

    Psssssst: Did you hear? Valentine's Day has been postponed until tomorrow. Why? Well because the Chanels are here silly! Of course!

    Come back tomorrow for my Valentine's Day Review - Perfect Kiss. Stay tuned for the Chanel review later today!