- Victoria's Own -

Thank You to all Veterans

2011-11-11T10:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Veteran's Day to Everyone on this historic date of:

11/11/11

Please take a moment today honor all those living and those who have given their lives for our country.

Anné Pliska - New Packaging

2011-07-20T22:44:00.000-07:00

There is NEW packaging for Anné Pliska EDP Spray! You have to admit this new packaging is vibrant, upbeat and très chic, très hip, très sexy!

According to Anné Pliska, "Our new modern bottle contains our original Anné Pliska fragrance. The new design is a vivacious pink, with a lustrous silky interior. Effortless and convenient, easy to pack up and go anywhere.

The fragrance is the same luscious formula we have always used. We are confident you will enjoy it as much as we do."

I am anxiously awaiting my bottle!

2011-05-29T21:51:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day - May 30th
Today our country pauses to honor the men and women who have died in military service to our country. Laying down their lives for our freedom.

Hawaiians call this Puwaina, the Hill of Sacrifice, more commonly known as the Punchbowl. This is the National Cemetery of the Pacific, is the final resting place for veterans of WWII, Korea, Vietnam and the Gulf War.

Thanks to all who are currently serving and to those who have served! Our hearts remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom. And to their families left behind, we will never forget.
Photo: Bill Dasher

Watch the Memorial Day Lantern Floating Tribute from Oahu online. Get details and full article by Hawai'i Magazine.com by clicking on the picture below:

Photo: David Hume Kennerly

Happy Easter Everyone!

2011-04-23T23:02:00.000-07:00

Saying Goodbye - Elizabeth Taylor

2011-03-23T14:50:00.000-07:00

Indeed it is a sad day for me. How odd to think that someone I never met could feel like family, and the loss there of to feel so deep. I always fancied running in to her some day in LA, not sure when or where I thought this was going to happen. Yet I vividly created the scene in my mind. I would say, "Oh Liz I am such a big fan and have been though the years. We share the same birthday, you know. And wherever someone wishes me happy birthday, I always say ... and Liz Taylor too". And she would smile and say, "Well aren't you sweet" and give me a hug and say, "Happy birthday to you too".

Aside from our birthday, I always felt a deep connection to her, again I can't say why. Maybe it was just a deep admiration. Yes I am a fan, but I haven't seen all her movies, nor do I know all her husbands, but I do know her. I know her passion, I know her humor, I know her love of animals and I know her compassion towards people. I deeply admire that she stood up to Hollywood, spoke out on issues that were close to her heart.

I will truly miss her, and will remember her always.

Happy St. Patrick's Day Everyone!

2011-03-17T15:49:00.000-07:00

Review: Jennifer Aniston - Signature Scent

2011-02-10T16:54:00.000-08:00

Well I'm not a fan of "celebrity" scents, but now and again a few do get it right. Jennifer Aniston's signature scent is one I can live with, perhaps even love. Strangely enough, debuting first at Harrods in London, now through late March exclusive to Sephora.

I'm not particularly a "fan" of Jennifer's and her semi-nude sliding cover pic went quickly to the trash bin. Sorry. But the rest of the packaging is elegant. The box is a thick ivory cardboard presentation type case that opens along a wavy line to reveal the falcon. With its thick top resembling crystal it does look nice with the pale yellow juice and gold accents. Branding is only on the neck collar so the look is clean and minimalistic.

Now to the scent - I love violet scents. Make it a powdery violet, throw in some amber and musk and I'm in love. The addition of sandalwood keeps it soft. The jasmine is prominent on the drydown with the lily making a bit sweeter. Not detecting rose water nor am I sure where the citrus grove accord is. I don't detect citrus or fruit here, which is a good thing. It does have a beachy feel, but there's no coconut-suntan-lotion thing either, it's just clean and soapy.

As I said it's rare for me to endorse a celebrity scent, so if you love powdery, soapy and violets give this a whiff. If the top notes don't get you, the jasmine, amber, musk, sandalwood base just might.

Notes:
Citrus Grove Accord, Rose Water, Jasmine, Violet, Amazon Lily, Musk, Amber, Sandalwood.

Available for now at: SEPHORA

A New Beginning

2011-02-05T14:13:00.000-08:00

Well I guess it's time I added a new post. Things have been busy and not busy, yet time flies. Since January I have stopped working, which still feels a bit surreal. Unfortunately I have a shoulder injury that is prohibiting me from really relaxing and enjoying my pursuits. Time spent on the computer is tiring and therefor I have withdrawn a bit. Quite ironic really as I had anticipated spending even more time here on my blog and on my Fragrance and Tea forums.

Time will tell what routine I settle into. For now it is feeling very much like an extended vacation. Not being a morning person at all, I have enjoyed the luxury of sleep, when my shoulder will allow.

One bit of news: I have been exploring journaling which has reignited my love of Fountain Pens. I have always loved them and feel so much more inspired when using one. J. Herbin has an incredible line of scented inks called Les Subtiles. I am using violet(of course) which is sweet violet scent as well as a divine color.

What else would you expect from a fragrance lover?

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2010-12-25T13:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

2010-11-25T07:28:00.001-08:00

Thank You to all Veterans

2010-11-11T14:03:00.000-08:00

When Worlds Collide

2010-11-06T03:09:00.000-07:00

Those that know me well, know I have two great passions in life; Fragrance and Tea. Maybe to be more descriptive, I should say two great preoccupations. For most things I pursue in life ... I pursue with passion.

To be fair I have much more passion for life and my family and God, but I do pursue my hobbies with a driving passion. A passion that divides my time and pulls me each from the other. But sometimes ... sometimes there is an entanglement; a beautiful entwining of the two.

Such as happened recently with one of my favorite tea vendors and blogger: Stéphane from Tea Masters Blog. When placing an order for some of the premium oolong he sells, the talk turned to fragrances. Stéphane had noticed my blog and offered me a very special tasting, a wonderful sample of orchid oolong. This tea had been especially made for the premiere of a Guerlain event showcasing their Orchidée Impériale. The tea, a premium oolong, had been infused with orchids.

What a kind gesture and a truly unexpected treat to have the opportunity to taste this lovely tea. Guerlain has always been my favorite house and Taiwanese oolong my favorite tea. The anticipation of receiving this rare sample was so exciting, something only a fragrance lover could understand.

When I prepared this tea, there at that very moment in my cup, my two worlds collided; the enduring and driving passion for fragrance and my ongoing pursuit and love of tea, combined in one swirling golden cup of delicately scented liquor. As I enjoyed this simple pleasure, this extremely well crafted tea tenderly infused with flowers, I felt perfect bliss. A decadent indulgence of my two loves. It was truly a lovely cup and one I will always remember.

Thanks again Stéphane.

Guerlain - Idylle

2010-09-14T12:03:00.000-07:00

Such a beautiful bottle and lovely video with Thierry Wasser:

We remember ...

2010-09-11T13:55:00.001-07:00

Provence Shop.com

2010-09-04T18:04:00.000-07:00

- 10% OFF on ALL FRAGONARD PRODUCTS -
(Offer ends on Labor Day 2010)

Check out the Parfum Luxe Edition bottles:

Find other Fragonard favorites here:
Provence-shop.com

Point a la Ligne Eiffel Tower Candle

2010-09-04T17:37:00.000-07:00

2010-09-04T17:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Independence Day - USA!

2010-07-04T13:35:00.000-07:00

Hello New Perfume of Life!

2010-06-14T23:43:00.000-07:00

Wow, the new Perfume of Life board is just great. Vibrant and edgy with lots of customization, a new Instant Message Chat on the front page, a whole new look with rotating backgrounds. In addition to the [TALK] Chat side, there is a great new [SHOP] Shopping side, where fragrances can be bought and sold and even auctioned! Exciting stuff.

Although I have been not as active as I would have liked to be, I still have a great love of fragrances and many friends I have met along the way. It really feels good to be back among friends.

For me this is my third PoL board, and I am really excited to be a part of the unveiling! Thank you all my fellow mods (Volunteer Community Hosts) and congratulations to the newly created Counselor positions. Three new Counselors: FiveoaksBouquet, rockinruby and susanwinters. Thanks to our board owner Jeffrey Dame, for all the hard work and the drive to create for us this great new forum.

2010-05-31T09:40:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day - May 31st
Today our country pauses to honor the men and women who have died in military service to our country. Laying down their lives for our freedom.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T07:31:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a Happy Easter,
Victoria

Credit: Webshots: janruss316

~ Happy St. Patrick's Day! ~

2010-03-16T23:43:00.000-07:00

~ Happy St. Patrick's Day! ~

May put on something GREEN to wear.
Wear your favorite GREEN fragrance.
Have a spot of GREEN Tea!

~ Birthdays ~

2010-02-27T02:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Liz! And Me!!

Anné Pliska for me today, what are you wearing?

2010-02-23T21:24:00.000-08:00

Those of you who love Rooibos might love this new Rooibos Vanilla scented candle from Diptyque. Diptyque (Pronounced dip-teek) is known for their quality perfumed candles, and this one should be extra nice!

By the way this is a limited edition BUY RED candle - created for the buy RED campaign for AIDS relief in Africa.

You can find it here at Aedes in NYC:

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-13T21:57:00.000-08:00

I hope you all have a lovely Valentine's Day! Wear your favorite FRAGRANCE, drink your favorite TEA, wear something RED. Be FABULOUS and enjoy the day!

In Remembrance

2010-01-18T11:05:00.000-08:00

One nation under God

Today is a USA National Holiday - Post Offices, Banks and Government offices are closed today in observance. To those of you who have the day off, I hope you have a pleasant & relaxing day.

- Victoria

~ Giving to Haiti ~

2010-01-16T16:24:00.000-08:00

Well I have certainly had the Haiti disaster on my mind all week and tugging at my heart. When Katrina struck, I made a donation right away, and then some shocking truths were relieved about how the money was spent and how much really made it to the victims. I was very saddened by this, not for my little contributions but for all the huge amounts of much needed money and for the victims. This time I wanted to be a little smarter. Take a little time and see what pans out as some of the best and safest ways to donate.

We know and we saw the US Military being some of the first to arrive. After researching and checking things out, I feel confident that One hundred percent of the donations made to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund go directly to relief efforts.

Here is the website:

http://clintonbushhaitifund.org/index.php

I challenge all my fragrance friends who have it on their hearts to do something, to donate the cost of your next bottle of fragrance to this fund. We all can do more than $10 bucks, let's anti up people.

Are you feeling helpless, uneasy, unsettled? You can make a difference and feel better. How?

Donate!!

Spread the word, of how and where to donate.

Challenge friends, family, groups to match or better your contributions.

And most of all Pray. Pray that any survivors still trapped will be found, pray for healing, pray for swift action to meet needs, pray for emotional healing. Pray for generosity and compassion and the outpouring of help from around the world. Pray for Haiti.

2010-01-01T16:31:00.001-08:00

2009-12-24T12:35:00.000-08:00

2009-11-11T14:36:00.000-08:00

"It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived." -General George S. Patton, Jr. Remembering all those who have served in the armed forces on this Veteran's Day!

2009-05-25T08:48:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day - May 25th
Today our country pauses to honor the men and women who have died in military service to our country. Laying down their lives for our freedom.

2009-05-10T10:34:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-04-11T14:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter Everyone!

2009-03-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

In Remembrance

2009-01-19T00:05:00.000-08:00

2008-12-31T14:37:00.001-08:00

2008-12-25T22:58:00.001-08:00

2008-11-26T22:54:00.000-08:00

Love - By Kilian - Review

2008-09-19T16:15:00.000-07:00

Kilian Love, Don't Be Shy

Created by Kilian Hennessy, heir to the Hennessy cognac family, this luxurious scent is a pure sensual treat with notes of bergamot, honeysuckle and white musk. 1.7 oz. $225.00

http://www.luckyscent.com/shop/detail.asp?itemid=42500&section=

********REVIEW COMING SOON************

2008-08-17T10:32:00.001-07:00

2008-07-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July

2008-05-25T23:30:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day - May 26th
Today our country pauses to honor the men and women who have died in military service to our country. Laying down their lives for our freedom.

Hawaiians call this Puwaina, the Hill of Sacrifice, more commonly known as the Punchbowl. This is the National Cemetery of the Pacific, is the final resting place for veterans of WWII, Korea, Vietnam and the Gulf War. In August my Father-in-law's remains will be transfered here to his final resting place of honor in his home state of Hawaii.

Photo: Bill Dasher

Czech & Speake - No. 88 - Review

2008-05-23T16:57:00.000-07:00

Ozzy Obsorne. Now there is a guy that smells great.

Do you have a fragrance in your collection that is so ... not you? One that if you left it lying on a washroom counter your friend would not even think it belonged to you? A fragrance so different from your others that wearing it is exciting and bold and delicious?

Enter Czech & Speake No 88. The English men's cologne that rocks my world.

Now I'm all about femininity, usually. Unisex scents don't even play well on me. Then along comes this men's fragrance, not even touted as unisex, and I am so blown away. I remember exactly the first moment I sniffed it. Right there on the patio of Fred Segal during the L.A. Sniffapalooza. I was memorized, hypnotized and it was ... sold out. But I knew even then, I would own this beauty one day. In the midst of the flurry of samples and testers and arms extended ... I knew.

There is something about this dusty rose and resinous wood that smells like sweet incense to my nose. Rose otto itself is amazing stuff; costly, beautiful, exquisite. It takes approximately 60,000 roses to produce just 1 oz of rose otto. That's about two & half dozen roses to make just one drop! Here blended with another favorite, geranium, it is reminiscent of another rose I love - Le Maroc pour elle. The cassie and the sandalwood are so harmoniously blended into the base that the drydown is as lovely as the opening with its burst of bergamot. Frangipanni weaves delicately in and out with enough of an indolic hint to produce a slight musk effect when smelled close to the skin. Unbelievely sexy. And the wear? The wear is legendary.

The definition from Apothia reads: "Based on an original Elizabethan recipe, but still definitively modern, this masculine fragrance contains specially selected natural oils of Sandalwood and Bergamot that give it a rich, woody aroma. A variety of middle notes, Geranium, Rose Otto, Cassie & Frangipanni bring out fresh, sharp flavours that make this scent stand alone."

A bit pricey at $162 for 100 ml, and a little hard to find, yet worth the effort!!

I find mine at: Apothia/Fred Segal Los Angeles (on Melrose)
or here: Apothia

And oh yeah, British rocker, Ozzy Osborne loves the stuff. Hummm I'm seeing a definite contrast here.

2008-05-11T13:15:00.000-07:00

2008-04-19T13:11:00.001-07:00

Three Bond No. 9 scents; Bryant Park, Bleecker Street and Nuits de Noho will now be available housed in 50ml bottles completely crystallized—like a second skin — with thousands of Swarovski crystals so tiny that together they shimmer and gleam as one. Instead of the classic bottle designs, these Swarovski Stars are covered in one single hue — either pink, green or blue.

Also new — Swarovski Stars Bon Bons, a collection of all three scents in crystallized 6ml purse-spray sizes (plus Eau de New York in white!).
Launch date: May 2008

Availability: 50ml for $650 ·
Swarovksi Stars Bon Bons Collection for $700

At Bond No. 9 boutiques, 877-273-3369, http://www.bondno9.com/,
http://www.saks.com/ and Saks Fifth Avenue nationwide.

2008-03-31T12:58:00.000-07:00

Narcotic Venus - Nasomatto - Review

2008-03-30T16:36:00.000-07:00

Narcotic Venus Extract de Parfum at $148 for 30ml (1oz) may be the most expensive fragrance I have ever purchased. But then again the funds used were birthday money, so the guilt is far less. The whole intent of birthday money is to buy something you would not normally buy for yourself, right? This is one lovely and extravagant indulgence to be sure.

Narcotic Venus is a beautifully crafted creamy white floral stunner. I find it especially lovely due to the overall sweet tone and the total flower IMPACT. This, if any, should be called Flowerbomb. It packs a solid floral punch yet carries it off with a feminine sweetness and charm that few could resist. Although tuberose is the main player, backed up with jasmine, there is a surprising lack of any real indolic notes here. Something that usually causes me to shy away from creamy florals. You take heavy creamy richness, add indoles, and I'm feel a little green around the gills. Not so here.

Nasomatto’s own description of this scent explains it as, “…a quest for the overwhelming addictive intensity of female sexual power.” Lucky Scent refers to it as an ..."absolute and total mankiller". Respectfully, I disagree. Definitely feminine, beautiful and haunting. I have trouble viewing it as the bad girl image it is portrayed to be. I wore this quite confidently to church on Easter Sunday without feeling like a trollop. I also submit this would make an unforgettable WEDDING fragrance.

Quite good staying power, although it tends to become more and more of a skin scent as it drys down to its lovely spicy lily finish. Simply stunning. I'm quite in love.

Notes:
Tuberose, jasmin, lily, spices

To buy or for more info click here: Lucky Scent - Narcotic Venus

Ed Note: On this perfume - at the post office - I probably got the best or most reactionary comment on a perfume EVER. I walked in and was standing at the slots where you deposit your own mail and was sorting through the stuff I brought in. A man was there next to me sorting also. Almost immediately he said,

"Oh you smell good."
pause
"Oh your perfume, wow."
pause
"Wow that is really nice"
pause
"Oh I can't even concentrate, oh wow"
Pause
"What is that?"
"It's very nice"

He was a normal guy and even surprised at his own reaction. He wasn't flirting. He was just caught off guard. I had the feeling he just said it out loud, not meaning to, and then just went with it.

2008-03-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a Happy Easter,
Victoria

Credit: Webshots: janruss316

Emerald Dream - Estee Lauder - Review

2008-03-10T01:20:00.000-07:00

Estee Lauder Emerald Dream Perfume for Women 1.7 oz Eau De Parfum Spray. I really fell hard for the packaging on this lovely perfume. Green glass and I go back a long way. It fills my kitchen and is the stuff of my dream bathroom. So when I saw this at Ulta, I knew as soon as I picked up the bottle, it would be going home with me.

The campaign - "Close your eyes and you’re there – your own private oasis. Enter a sun-drenched garden hidden away from it all. An exclusive and luxurious retreat filled with intriguing scents and brilliant color. Wander down sun-dappled paths to a refreshing pool of blue-green water. Float away and feel the warmth of the sun caress your skin. This is your dream, this is your moment all to yourself. Discover Estee Lauder Emerald Dream, a captivating new fragrance which will exhilarate your senses, gently beckoning with an invigorating blend of sparkling freshness, alluring warmth and smooth sensuality. "

Opening with sparkling top notes of citrus and floral it is bright and sunny and does remind one of a tropical vacation. Especially as the mid notes emerge and you get that "beach skin accord". Eventually drying down to a nice light floral and sandalwood base. Nice for what it is, what I call an escape fragrance. Everyone should have a couple.

Notes: tangerine, apricot, honeysuckle, blue basil, mimosa, violet, blue iris, emerald orchid, plum, marigold, cyclamen, beach skin accord, blue cypress, sandalwood and Hawaiian kamani wood.

I found mine at : ULTA

Zenadora Paris - Review

2008-02-17T15:34:00.000-08:00

Ahh there is nothing like the smell of a new perfume to turn my head and capture my attention.

The fragrance? Zenadora - Paris. Amber, tuberose, rose petals. Starting out a slightly medicinal amber and light balsam, then mellowing quickly to a powdery infusion of amber and smelling very much like a sandalwood note, powdery and rich. Very elegant for evening. A sample sent to me by a friend, left alone, I almost missed it in the envelope. Sampling it this morning brought me pure joy. Brought me running back to you all; my friends who understand. Those who seek and understand how a fragrance can bring you to your knees. And so here is evident, this beauty called Zendora.

I have been spending way too much time on the tea board, I need to come back to my first love. Tea is what I drink - what I enjoy; but perfume defines me - it's who I am.

2008-02-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

What is more romantic than Paris? Harney & Sons have a wonderful tea to celebrate the romance that is Paris. Their Paris Blend tea is a smooth cup of warming black tea blended with black currant, creamy caramel and a light touch of bergamot. This is a great tea for sipping together on a Paris balcony.

Truly, what is more romantic than Paris?

Harney & Sons - Paris Blend

Congratulations!

2008-01-23T19:26:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Nancy, known to many of us fragrance lovers as Fishbone96. She is now selling decants directly from her blog, you can check out her inventory here: Fishbone96

Best wishes Nancy!

In Remembrance

2008-01-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

One nation under God

Where have I been?

2008-01-20T00:27:00.000-08:00

Well, I have been on an extraordinary journey through tea. Starting slowly when I moved away from coffee. I went back to the teas I knew from my youth. Still loving my black teas I somehow stumbled onto whole leaf then oolongs. I have to tell you the experience was amazing. The tea world opened to me just as the fragrance world opened when I found Perfume of Life. The whole experience of it, the aroma of the dry leaves, the warm steam, the scent of the tea, and the taste - sometimes delicate, sometimes bold, the sensual art of making and drinking tea captured my heart. I suddenly found myself bouncing from supplier to supplier buying samples and feeling compulsive and crazy to experience it all.

And now I think I have come to a peace. As I did with perfume, to enjoy the teas that come my way, rather than to make it my mission to try everything. And now I feel calm and centered surrounded by my perfumes and sweet enjoyment of my tea.

Never would I have believed or understood so fully the kindred spirit between perfume and tea, the bond of the senses, had I not taken the journey. Ah life is sweet indeed!

Chanel No. 5 Eau Premiere - Chanel - Review

2008-01-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

Oh Chanel, your very name evokes fashion couture and legendary fragrance. And nothing more so than that famous number; No. 5.

With all its marketing strategy and hype, No. 5 Sensual Elixir somehow managed to miss the mark, smelling not quite the same as the original formula, yet not different enough to be remarkable. Too bad because the smooth scented gel was a sensual delight. The gel concept and the way it melts into the skin still makes it a popular choice for those seeking a more wearable No. 5. Yet still, it's not quite right.

But where the elixir missed the mark, Eau Premiere is right on. A sexy contemporary version of this classic fragrance. Those old school, die hard original formula lovers won't budge an inch here, but then it's not meant to move them. This is created for the new legends. Turbulent, wild and fresh this is the fragrance that suits Nicole. It is vibrant and alive with sexy under currents that pull you in for a closer sniff.

Chanel No. 5 Eau Premiere is in limited release to Saks only right now. I'm hoping it will open with wider distribution soon as I have a gift certificate saved away and the $125 price tag is worth the wait.

2008-01-12T10:32:00.000-08:00

Nothing like a lovely cup of tea and a late sleep in to relax from the work week!
Today I'm wearing my new Montale Ginger Musk and drinking a combined brew I made from a Milk Oolong and Osmanthus Oolong. Have a lovely weekend!
Victoria

2008-01-01T14:00:00.000-08:00

Wishing you all the very best in 2008!
Thank you to all who stop still stop by, I'll try to end my haitus soon. My format may be changing to better reflect my current interests. Which of course still includes fragrance! Best wishes to you all, I've had a great 2007 and I just know 2008 will be even better! - Victoria

Best of 2007

2007-12-29T23:50:00.000-08:00

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

Beauty Blogging Junkie

Beauty Talk

Beautiful Makeup Search

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

The Life Of A Ladybug

The Non-Blonde

Urbane Girl

We Love Beauty

2007-12-22T22:19:00.000-08:00

2007-12-04T20:16:00.001-08:00

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!

2007-12-04T14:32:00.000-08:00

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!

2007-11-21T09:37:00.000-08:00

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

2007-10-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-17T18:47:00.000-07:00

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

2007-06-30T09:20:00.000-07:00

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

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

2007-06-22T07:59:00.000-07:00

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?

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

2007-06-20T07:02:00.000-07:00

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?

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

2007-06-19T06:58:00.000-07:00

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?

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

2007-06-18T07:57:00.000-07:00

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?

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

2007-06-14T07:03:00.000-07:00

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?

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

2007-06-13T06:18:00.000-07:00

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?

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

2007-06-12T06:25:00.000-07:00

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?

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

2007-06-08T06:47:00.000-07:00

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

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

2007-06-07T06:40:00.000-07:00

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?

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

2007-06-06T06:28:00.000-07:00

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?

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

2007-06-05T06:18:00.000-07:00

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?

Scent of the Day - Weekend!

2007-06-02T12:19:00.000-07:00

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

Scent of the Day - Friday - 06/01/07

2007-06-01T06:59:00.000-07:00

Happy June! And TGIF!! Still on my TDC Osmanthus kick, what are you wearing?

Scent of the Day - Thursday - 05/31/07

2007-05-31T06:45:00.000-07:00

TDC Osmanthus for me today, what are you wearing?

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

2007-05-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

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

Aldehyde 44 - Le Lebo - Review

2007-05-29T06:10:00.000-07:00

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

2007-05-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

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

2007-05-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day Weekend USA!

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

2007-05-25T06:35:00.000-07:00

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

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

2007-05-24T06:12:00.000-07:00

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

2007-05-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

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

Scent of the Day - Wednesday - 05/23/07

2007-05-23T06:29:00.000-07:00

Today I'm wearing Aldehyde 44 by Le Labo - Lovely! What are you wearing?

Shalini - Review

2007-05-22T06:01:00.000-07:00

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

2007-05-22T06:00:00.001-07:00

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

Scent of the Day - Friday - 05/18/07

2007-05-18T06:29:00.000-07:00

Testing JAR Shadow this morning. TGIF!!
What are you wearing?

Scent of the Day - Thursday - 05/17/07

2007-05-17T06:45:00.000-07:00

Jean Paul Gaultier Fleur du Male. Wow. What are you wearing?

Scent of the Day - Wednesday - 05/16/07

2007-05-16T07:08:00.000-07:00

Bulgari Omnia Amethyst today. The last decant from eBay. What are you wearing?

Scent of the Day - Tuesday - 05/15/07

2007-05-15T07:05:00.000-07:00

Eau d'Amouage for me today, what are you wearing?

Scent of the Day - Monday - 05/14/07

2007-05-14T10:13:00.000-07:00

Kors Hawaii for me today, what are you wearing?

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

2007-05-11T06:54:00.000-07:00

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?

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

2007-05-10T06:45:00.000-07:00

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?

Scent of the Day - Wednesday - 05/09/07

2007-05-09T06:23:00.000-07:00

Cuir Beluga for me today.

What are you wearing?

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

2007-05-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

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

2007-05-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

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

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

2007-05-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

Undecided toady - Maybe Le Maroc.

What are you wearing today?