Fragrance Reviews by ubuandibeme

Ava Luxe's Turkish Vanilla is creamy, nutty, milky, warmly spiced and definitely unisex! Reminds me alot of Fragonard's vanilla fragrance...it also lasts a long time! I can see myself using Turkish Vanilla to give a boost of sweetness to other scents. This is one I will love playing with!

I can only elaborate upon Vibert's eloquent commentary by adding that to my nose, this L'artisan is a true "lipstick rose" - even moreso than Malle's! It is absolutely adorable!

Pookerella's right, about the cotton candy! Really, sweet vanilla is all, pure and simple. Not a frag for me...I much prefer my vanilla deeper, drier or much more embellished!

My first impression of this fragrance is that it smells like a vanillic version of Victor & Rolf's Flowerbomb! After giving it some time to develop, it showed a more chypre side, giving a unisex edge to the blend, which I'll chalk up to it's dry version of patchouli! Strangely, I like it! I may (hmmmm, maybe) even buy a bottle...even though it looks a bit cheesy.

As far as vanilla's go, this one's so-so. What I really smell here is cinnamon with vanilla, and it's sweet, like those cinnamon red-hot candies. Giving a neutral because I can't really think of an occassion when I'd like to smell like this! (Kind of low on the wearability scale!)

This fragrance is without a doubt genetically related to YSL's Elle - released in the same year. The main focus of this fruity floral are notes of peony and jasmine...wearing on the skin as the shy little sister of Elle, who is a bit more bold and outspoken! I'd love to know the perfumer here ~ if I were a gambler, I'd put my money on the same nose/noses that are credited with creating Elle! Cinema Festival d'Ete is a great choice for a lighter type frag, close wearing and fresh!

This sensual fragrance begins in a very sweet, vanilla-ish manner ~ seeming at first a bit timid and fleeting...but just give LTBL a little time to mature on your skin and you'll be amazed at her tenacity. I could still clearly smell that gorgeous musk nearly 24 hours after application! It is soft, close wearing and stays fresh too. Comforting. Truly a polite and beautiful fragrance.

Well, purplebird7 and I are on the same page...bought this blindly...big mistake! The galbanum is short lived, morphing into a sickly sweet spicy scrubber. Wish I could have smelled the original...

I agree with Tovah in that Eclat d Arpege is along the lines of Scent of Peace and Light Blue... but the first association I made was Bvlgari's Omnia Crystalline. A transparent blend of flowers, wood and musk ~ light and refreshing. I adore Arpege, and this version comes accross very youthful and modern ~ extremely wearable!

I think Wordbird has put it best. To me, Kelly Caleche definitely smells like the inside of a used leather handbag that has picked up the scent of tissues, face powder, fruit gum, lipstick, and other assorted frivolities that may be carried by any woman with a purse! For a lighter, smoother leather fragrance my preference still runs toward Luten's Daim Blond. Worthy of a test spritz for sure!

I hate to be the party pooper here, but I'm not crazy about this Liu.
It does have prominent aldehydic notes, likening it to Chanel's No.5, however, it is completely void of any sweetness. This is by far, the driest floral I've encountered. To my nose, it is more like Wind Song by Prince Matchabelli ~ a musty smelling frag. The drydown leaves me smelling...er...uh...not so fresh.

A real grown up floral. All about the sillage - it's just right! I really get the lilies and peonies here too! Pleasures is the snowy floral perfection that Gucci's Envy Me (pink) and McClintock's Number 3 failed to attain. The balance from top to bottom is exquisite! For the many floral notes this fragrance contains it never comes off too sweet, too powdery or too dry. Lauder fans and foes should give this one a try, it's very wearable.

The way I understand it, this 1999 version of Lucien Lelong pour Femme was re-worked from the 1950's original...which I have never smelled. Notes listed for this bold floral-oriental are:

mandarin, bergamot, magnolia, lilac, fig
jasmine rose, tuberose, ylang ylang, iris
variety of orchids
sandalwood, vetiver, oakmoss, musk

Fully loaded with womanly glamour, this potion is powerful! I liken it's potency with that of Givenchy's Amarige or Dior's Poison. The orchid notes come across clearly, even though the rest of the bouquet is dominant. A bit "soapy" on my skin. I applaud this blend, but doubt if I would ever be excited to wear it.

My first thought upon sniffing Iris Poudre is "Wow, this smells just like Chanel's No.5!" After it settles, and the basenotes become more prominent, I agree 100% with Cedriceccentric who said: "If Chanel would have made a No.5 for men this is what it would have been like." I attribute the slightly masculine vibe to the tonka in the base - although it is quite obviously a unisex frag. A smooth, wearable aldehydic floral.

From the very first sniff, Iris Silver Mist is all about the iris. I grow irises, and they need regular thinning. When the rhizomes (or 'roots') are dug up, fresh from the damp rich soil ~ this is what ISM smells like! Incredible! Earthy, moist and a bit vegetal. Soon, the powdery facet of this frag kicks in, accompanied by sweet violet. I love the distinct evolution this scent possesses. As it settles, the iris, earth and violets are grounded in spicy woods that slowly ease...calming into a magnifiscent base, which retains the best of each note within it's composition. It is luminous. Iris Silver Mist is so very worthy of a sampling...if not the whole bottle!

Vanille Exquise is the loveliest amber vanilla I've smelled! So very "Shalimarish" ~ which is exactly what makes it sophisticated. At first, the vanilla does seem a bit thin (as far as vanillas go) but after a short time, the subtle amber notes make themselves known, warming on the skin, and combining exquisitely with the vanille! It does wear close to the skin ~ and it's heavenly!

Very different...for my nose I perceive a green, lemony rose. It also smells wet. Strangely, it took a few wearings for me to decide that I like it...but it's just not a frag for me.

This lush floral is full bodied and potent! At first it's all fruity/floral madness, but when the roses kick in ~ the rest of the flowers in this bouquet perk up! The mid section of this lovely scent is making me think of Lauren's Romance. The florals here never give way; they hold my attention and then cleverly draw my nose into the decadent and rich base. The roses stay true and fresh, very womanly and gorgeous!

Pleasures Exotic is the fruity variation of the original. Since fruity notes are not among my most favorite, I'm still loving the original best. But, having said that, PE is one of the nicer spin offs I've experienced. The fruitiness is not too sweet (IMO), the florals and wooded base still shine through and hold true to their parent frag! I'll use my sample, but won't purchase a full bottle of this one. Oh yeah, my daughter gave my wrist a sniff and said, "...it smells like a hair product...".

A new scent from Estee Lauder that will surely appeal to the masses! This silky smooth fragrance is warm, sweetened amber in a creamy honeyed & peppery base that comes off as softly powdered musk...a skin scent for sure! It's almost got an addictive quality, compelling me to sniff and snorfle my arm where it's resting. (Hopefully, my husband will have the same reaction!) After a few years of pinkish-fruity-patchouli's, this scent is oh so welcome!

This blend of sweet spices and floral - AND vetiver - is magic! Not typical by any means. I must disagree with some of the previous comments ~ the anise and licorice notes are amazingly good. It comes off less sweet than Angel ~ not trying to be a 'clone' ~ and it's very wearable. What an ingenious blend! I've tried it several times now and grow to love it more with each application. This one is worth the full bottle. Which by the way is a treasure all it's own!

My husband does woodworking as a hobby, and this Chene is true to the fragrance of oak! Smells like oak boards being cut, sanded, etc. Original, authentic and attention getting. Nicely done!

Feminite du Bois with a healthy dose of soft musk! I actually liked this one better than 'fruits' & 'oriental' ~ still, my favorite in Luten's "Bois series" is Violette, but this one would suffice as a replacement - in a pinch.

3 parts Feminite du Bois, 1 part Arabie.

Purplebird7's got this one pegged! I would say it's 3 parts Feminite du Bois, 1 part Amber Sultan.

I'm with Sofresh on this one ~ FdB must be the biological mother of Lutens' entire "Bois series", they are virtually of the same genetics. For a dominantly woods fragrance, I was suprised how much I loved this one in the heat of summer! It's exquisite! I wish it were available for retail purchase here in the USA!

Poivre Samarcande can be summed up in three words:

Smooth
Peppery
Dry

I love it on my husband! It's an obvious JCE creation, blended with exquisite craftmanship. Mr. Ellena really knows when to pour it on and when to use only the lightest touch. Thumbs up!

I first tested Casmir awhile back, and I believe the bottle was "aged", and I didn't like it too well. After re-testing, I now own some of this warm & comforting scent! The 2 notes that stand forward are vanilla and sandalwood, coming off very unisex. The amber/vanilla/sandalwood/musk/patchouli base is quite rich. While inhaling the aroma of this well crafted blend, a fleeting memory of Coty's Emeraude tinged my thoughts. It's not exactly the same drydown, but something in it is very similar. Also coming to mind is NR for women. Considering the cheap price, you really can't go wrong if you like vanilla & sandalwood! Thumbs up for sure!

Truly a "skinscent", wearing extremely close to the body without noteable sillage. Nice for the beach or boat, but beyond that I don't see the point. Maybe if I layered it with the oil it would bloom better...

Olene is simply the most indolic frag I've ever experienced! Serge Lutens' A La Nuit is still my favorite, which just happens to be the perfect blend of indolic jasmine and touch of green for my taste, however this Olene is worthy too! Olene reminds me of the opening indolic phase of yet another Luten's - Sarrasins. Ink smell, for sure! (I guess some may think it more 'mothball' smelling, but not me.) Olene possesses a unique sweetness as well, which I personally find better suited to feminine wearers.
If you like 'em bold - fragrant white flowers, heavy on the indoles - this one's not to be missed! Thumbs way up!

I think this one is the orange bottle with the yellow cap...

At any rate, it is simply ~ Clinique's Happy.

Bright, fresh and youthful...but certainly not original.

F by Ferragamo begins with a blast of candy sweetness, then settles into a lactonic symphony ~ in the back of my throat! Fortunately, it fades rather quickly. The base is weak. It leaves a dusty, stale smell like a cocktail table that has sticky-sweet-drink rings stuck to it, and it hasn't been cleaned in weeks. This frag is touted as a floral, with notes of rose, jasmine, etc...I'm not getting it.

I cannot say it any better than JaimeB! To his eloquent review I can only add how perfectly the aniseed note is presented ~ breathtaking! A timeless masterpiece that any perfume lover should seek out, sniff, marvel and appreciate!

For me, Joy is initially very rosey, with a hint of jasmine. I really get an awesome civet tone from the pure parfum...exquisitely incorporated, only slightly fleshy/indolic, very, VERY nicely done! Presented with an almost soapy character, it is an exhuberantly gorgeous floral. Slightly dated, but absolutely a masterpiece!

Un Cedre is not pleasing to this Luten's fan. It opens WAY TOO SWEET ~ like the opening of MPG's Centaure, or Ted Lapidus in the grey bottle ~ actually makes me feel queazy. I don't get any tuberose or cedar wood. The drydown is powdery sweet, what I'd classify as oriental, but it's still a big NO for me!

I'm in agreement with most reviewers here...this is a lovely skin scent. Baked earth, spicy carnation, tinge of green (muguet???) Highly wearable. I prefer something sweeter, but this Guerlain is very underrated ~ give it a try for sure!

I'm thankful Ayala reviewed this one, she is always articulate and detailed...for me, Deseo was suprisingly good. A beach scent is how I'd classify it, and it is extremely enjoyable to wear. Also, the bottle is much more attractive in person than in ads.

I'll make this simple:

edt = citrus, lavender, oopoponax/tonka with vanilla.
I enjoy it very much. My husband hates it.
Fleeting in longevity.

The way I understand this Angel La Part des Anges is an aged re-worked version of Angel in extrait form. I've read that Francoise Caron toiled over this one, and that the aging process for this frag took 25 days. I'm not quite sure exactly what the "aging process" for extrait de parfum consists of, but the result is ever so sweet! And I do mean sweet. My first impression of the latest take on "Angel" is sweet chocolate, almost fruity and a bit 'boozy' in character. Burnt sugar carmel for sure! In comparison to the original extrait, which I tested side by side, the original has a more powdery and ethereal effect. The original also contains that glorious burst of patchouli that I adore! Both are smooth edged, creamy, dreamy delights! Angel is a masterpiece that has eluded me...at least until now...just my luck, I'll have to cough up the big bucks for an extrait version ~ which is the only way I enjoy this treasure! (On the plus side, just a slight dab lasts all day long. So my dollars may actually be well spent!)

This fragrance is so very unique! I am one of the unfortunates who cannot wear it well. When I get a whiff of Angel on someone else, it's intoxicating...however, after about 30 minutes of his on my own skin, I smell like I've stuck a chocolate bar under each arm ~ not pretty! It just seems 'too much' for me to wear for any length of time. If this original Angel is not to your liking, I suggest trying the floral Angel's. I'm in love with the patchouli base! The drydown is sexy - in an angelic way! Oh yeah, my husband really likes it too.

05/2008 update :

Finally, I have found enjoyment in wearing this treasure...it's called EXTRAIT! Just a dab, lasts all day long! Absolutely stunning! The great thing about Angel is there are so many options available ~ you just need to spend some time finding the way to wear it that works best for you! Now I can love wearing this one along with the rest of you!

Trebor's review is wonderful, and I agree with him that this Guerlain is very "Luten-esque"! Spiritueuse Double Vanille has substance and depth yet remains sheer. The vanilla here is rich and smooth, with a note of pure sweet pipe tobacco complimented by the slightest bit of booziness and smoke. I too was taken by suprise, SDV is very easy to enjoy, and completely wearable by a man or woman.

Aaaahhhhhh, this is scrumptious! Violet and wood. The violet here is absolutely succulent! It is deep, rich and dark (as opposed to bright/fresh/dewey). I actually salivate when smelling this Luten's masterpiece. It immediately reminds me of Dolce Vita - only better! The funny thing is, after reading Perfumes The Guide, I discover they are related! Bois de Violette pushes all the right buttons for me...including the woods blend, which does not strike me as dominantly cedar...it is crafted well and comes off as very wearable by either a man or woman. Maybe just a touch more feminine. In any case, I emptied my wallet for this one...and have not a single regret!

I've tested the eau de toilette version, which may be why it comes off weak to my nose...never the less, it is not all that interesting. The cedar is prominently above the other notes, rendering them ineffective in this blend. I wish the jasmine was more than an accent here, as it is lost among the woods. (Cedar and vetiver.) I detect only a tinge of rose.
I'll give this a neutral, until I re-test a more concentrated version...

A moist and fresh green paired with delicately sweet violet, mmmmmmmmmmmmm, it's lovely! This is one of my most favorite springtime floral frags. Despite it's cool freshness, it wears fairly close to the body, but lives a long life none the less! This is a L'Artisan boutique fragrance ~ only available in L'Artisan Parfumeur stand alone shops. It is worth seeking out, I believe I will always have a bottle of this in my wardrobe. Anne Flipo does fresh florals so well!

What a sleeper! This fancy little frag is simply fab! Heliotrope here gives Belle en Rykiel an uplifting, open/airy feel. Perfectly complimenting the rich base ~ which is reminiscent of Obsession, in a lighter and brighter way! When I sampled this one, my husband got a whiff and said, "Ooooh, what's that?!" He's not one to comment on fragrance unless his opinion is asked for....so I give Belle en Rykiel top honors for getting, and keeping, his attention! Thumbs up!

This one's odd. The intensity of Tumulte is crazy...it is full speed ahead, at least for the first few hours! (Yep, this stuff lasts forever, in fact after 12 hours I can still detect it on my skin!) It comes off initially like hundreds of other fruity florals, yet it is strangely different. I cannot distinguish the individual notes, but likewise cannot compliment on the blending or harmonizing of this juice. My senses are overwhelmed, maybe even leaving my nose feeling like it's been assaulted...ultimately, Tumulte receives a thumbs down. It is un-wearable, and unappreciated on my skin. (*I also asked my husband to give it a sniff...he wrinkled his nose at it.)

Maurice Roucel is an outstanding perfumer, Tocade is excellent in composition. It is an oriental, with a powdery/vanilla kick. The notes are smoothly orchestrated. For a powdery vanilla, I find my taste runs more in the direction of Kenzo Amour. It is brighter in it's overall character...Tocade has more warmth, and would be better suited to a cool climate.

Vibert's commentary on this fragrance is stellar! A masterpiece indeed, but let me interject....

I will never wear this scent. It is not at all what I wish to smell like. A thumbs up though, as it merits applause!

Wow, so many distinct impressions of this creation...for me, Rose de Nuit begins as a lush, velvety, fleshy, almost over-powering rose that kept my nose completely interested for at least a good 10 minutes or more. Then very slowly, the intense galbanum creeps into the limelight. It is green, and dark, becoming steely in the drydown. In smelling this fantastic rose fragrance, Chanel's no.19 kept coming to mind. I think they share alot between them, with Chanel's version as a bright rosy green chypre and Luten's a dark, more mysterious rose chypre. Very nicely done.

I'm not all that familiar with Kenzo fragrances. Kenzo Amour is a powdery sweet vanilla. At first, it comes off as an ultra feminine take on Bulgari Black. The vanilla powder has a certain "smokiness". I quite like it! It's not like anything else in my collection. Also resembling Montale's Sweet Oriental Dream - this Kenzo is extremely wearable and much preferred to the Montale. The balance is incredible, I don't get overwhelmed with any of the notes. If I could choose one word to describe this scent it would be 'harmony'.

Well, I'm in the middle on this one. A "medium" oriental/floral, opens with a fresh burst of fruitiness then drifts into a mild floral. Funny to read lillies in there, I cannot distinctly smell them. The heart notes are powdery sweet, then the base kicks in - which is what turns me off. It's kind of like Fresh's Sake. Something in it just sticks to the back of my throat. I'll give this one a neutral ~ but just barely.

ZZTOPP's commentary regarding this Creed is perfect! I will be purchasing Virgin Island Water come summer 2008!

Well, summer's around the corner and I've got my VIW ready to go! This stuff has gotten alot of undeserved bad press. I'll tell you this: it does not smell like suntan lotion. It does not smell like a drink. It does not even smell like B&BW Coconut Lime Verbena. Nope. What it DOES smell like is zesty citrus...lime...fresh and bright. The coconut is creamy and light, not too sweet, and definitely not like any lotion. The delicate florals are barely perceptable, but give balance so that this playfully classy elixir never comes off 'foody'. VIW is also completely unisex! My husband and I love it on eachother! Remarkably tenacious, and perfect for hot humid weather or a balmy summer evening. This is the only Creed I own, because it's worth owning!

While Luca Turin may be right about the composition of this blend being "technically tricky", and ultimately a masterpiece in composition...my nose tells me I don't want to smell like Beyond Paradise. No matter the level of difficulty in it's creation, when I sniff this juice it is slightly sharp, soapy, and a bit heavy on the peachy/apricot note. (I can also smell Tommy Girl.) True enough, BP holds it's shape and strength throughout it's entire lifespan, but if a floral symphony is what I desire, I'm more likely to head for Lauder's Beautiful...which is velvety smooth and more pleasing to my nose.

Over the years, Estee Lauder has marketed some fantastic fragrances...Youth Dew, Cinnabar, White Linen, Pleasures, Beautiful, the list goes on endlessly. Private Collection Tuberose Gardenia is undoubtedly one of their finest! This is a high quality-high class floral! It holds it's own up against the likes of Carnal Flower (Editions-Frederic Malle created by Dominique Ropion). For comparative purposes I wore the two together for a side by side testing. Ultimately, CF - being straight forward tuberose, came off to me as decidedly more masculine than PCTG. PCTG possesses the authentic dewy sweetness of a delicate white gardenia flower, which in my opinion pushes this frag into the realm of femininity. Being a Lauder, I expected it to have a good amount of projection and staying power - I was not disappointed! A floral lover's dream, this is a must have - the bigger the bottle, the better!

My friend across the street has a patch of delicious mint growing wildly in her landscape, she lets me swipe some whenever I need it...Chevrefeuille smells like when I rub one of those fresh mint leaves between my fingers. It is lemony and bright! Slightly herbaceous with an everlasting type freshness. As for the honeysuckle ~ I don't get much at all - it is extremely subdued. This is a winning unisex summertime elixir! In fact, I might prefer it on a man.

With all the "living" notes in Versace, this fragrance cannot help but smell "ALIVE"! The opening here is fresh & juicy. I love that it's not too fruity. There is a thread of aquatic/ozonic sensation that ripples through, just enough to keep the livliness in tact. The base is primarily musk, balanced by cedar. It ends up powdery on my skin. Decidedly feminine, with a feeling attached to it that is reminiscent of RL's Romance. Moderate to bold sillage, excellent staying power. Can be worn easily by any age group! It's not my personal choice of fragrance to wear, but I think it's wonderful and wearable! Thumbs up!

Powerhouse of an opener! No kidding, I sparingly spritzed a small amount of this juice onto the back of my hand and WHOOSH ~ a cloud of Guerlain permeated the entire shop! It was the good fortune of everyone within a 100 foot radius that I chose My Insolence to try! If an explosion of perfume is innevitable, make it a good one. Almost right from the start I could sense the patchouli/vanilla/tonka base begining to simmer as the attention grabbing raspberry cloud shifted. I say that in a good way ~ the raspberry note here is as beautiful as it is potent. The sweet/tart fruitiness melds into the floral heart effortlessly, and is in perfect balance. Not too sweet, which I applaud. The jasmine shares an equal spotlight with the almond blossom, one not standing in front of the other, completely side by side. As an hour passes this fragrance stays close, which suprises me...it settles into a powdery oriental that keeps me sniffing!!! My Insolence is gorgeous, I highly recommend giving it a try. That goes for you adventuresome gentlemen too!

This is a strange one...the topnotes come off like English Leather. As the drydown progresses, mild incense notes waft in & out, reminiscent of L'Artisan's Passage D'Enfer but not as high quality. The strangeness is that after those two associations have cleared through, this scent is kind of nice. Wait just a minute...another two associations have come up - Fierce by Abercrombie and Dunhill (brown). Yep. That's all folks!

Very original! I love the geranium leaves as a tempered green among the bright clean lemon, sweet floral honeysuckle and aromatic lavender. Excellent balance - smooth too. For me Covet is neutral in gender, and fairly easy to wear. Another perfumery success for SJP!

I was all set to trash this television show fragrance, but after pressing the pump on the sample bottle, this juice hit my wrist and I was a changed woman! Not that Forbidden Fruit is any earth shattering concoction, but it is quite suprising. Apple is definitely part of this blend, pomegranate too, as well as a variety of florals...possibly gardenia, hyacinth, wisteria and jasmine for good measure! It is fresh and flirty. Don't hesitate to try it, and enjoy this hidden little secret for yourself!

Personal chemistry is really key with this Love at First Glow. For me, I love it on paper, but on my skin it doesn't work at all. The florals come off very sharp and soapy, not clean and fresh, just sudsy ~ like I need to rinse! I'm giving a neutral as I believe others will find this scent very refreshing and wearable.

Osmanthus is the star fragrance note here in Precious Heart. It is a delicate golden flower native to China, and posseses a fruity-apricot floral aroma. Osmanthus dominantes this composition. I have read Precious Heart also contains light cardamom and cedar. I never get the cardamom. The cedar is barely there after a long drydown. This mix has an overall tinge of powdery green, which brings a feeling of spring ~ youthfulness ~ life. IMO this limited edition fragrance would be best suited to a younger wearer...maybe someone just discovering the fabulous house of Guerlain!

Heady, yes! Sweet, yes! Huge white flowers, yes! Big 80's floral with the volume cranked up all the way. If White Shoulders made an extreme version ~ this would be it! Suprisingly enjoyable and value priced too.

Growing up Catholic, the smell of frankincense & myyrh always struck me as 'stinky'. It still does. Yet, this Passage d'Enfer - stinky notes and all - amazes my senses! Rach2jlc mentions spicy sausage which I COMPLETELY AGREE WITH! Panfried Italian sweet sausage bursting with fennel seeds! And get this - beneath those heavily incensed notes there is a light sweetness - like grandmother's prayers floating directly up to heaven on angels wings. How ironic, considering the name. Remarkable, this scent. For creating such vivid imagery I must give Pd'E thumbs up. How few fragrances have this ability.

Elegant, golden, creamy. This is how I can best describe this precious elixir from MPG! One of my favorite offerings by this fragrance house. With my chemistry, it is what I always hoped Guerlain's Shalimar could be! Lovely.

This fragrance is very different for the house of Chanel. By the name, I excpected to sample a soliflore ~ which was not the case. Actually, this juice is light and green in composition...notes beautifully blended, not sweet at all. The name Une Fleur is fitting because it is mild...unlike many other florals out there that sort of 'throw the whole garden into the mix'! When sampling this scent, it was as though I was sniffing a single nameless bloom ~ soft & demure. The scent itself is reminiscent of Anais Anais. If you don't typically choose florals this one might please you!

A fresh floral/oriental from one of my favorite fragrance houses! Lotus blossom, nashi pear, bamboo, balsa wood and amber notes...mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm good! This mix is bright & light with excellent staying power. It's easy on the flowers, seamlessly blended, classy too! I'd call this one a 'head turner'. Lots of complements received when wearing this fine fragrance. Would make a lovely introduction into the world of Bulgari scents!

I'm in agreement with Margareta, this fragrance begins with very generic top-notes...then dries down to a warming powdery amber/woodsy base that wears close to the skin. Sexy in an understated fashion. I find the notes in Bright Crystal true to the basic composition of Crystal Noir. I might describe it more LIGHT than bright though...As usual with Versace, the bottle is a work of art. Lovely modern vanity accessory!

As far as jasmine frags go, I have been forever ruined by Lutens' A La Nuit! With that out of the way, let me say for a light soliflore, Voile de Jasmin is very user friendly and absolutely wearable!

WOW! I just love this Flowerbomb! Everything about it is remarkably unique. The bottle, the name, the fragrance notes...the way they "explode & smolder" ~ simply brilliant! There has been so much extreme opinion on this one, but I personally find it attractive and wearable!

Waterfloral - like water lily - and woodsy...reminds me of a Bath and Body works scent.

If ever there was a cloying "old lady" smelling concoction - this is it! I just don't 'get' all the hype of this Amouage brand. I have also tried 3 of their other fragrances and find them all very off-putting. This goes for Ciel, Dia, and Silver. Each one oily, heavy, overpowering. These perfumes smell like something one would wear as a potent attempt to cover an unwanted odor. Disgusting.

Not my favorite Chanel. Quality, yes. But on me it never develops as eloquently as calchic's review. My preference within the same type of fragrance is Christian Dior's "Diorella" - the female version of Eau Sauvage. I chalk this one up to a matter of personal taste.

This was my grandma's signature scent! Even as a small child, I have a distinct memory of her smell. The spicy floral sweetness of Chantilly is delicate, and intricate - just like chantilly lace. Suprisingly well blended, and possesses a distinct amber base! My favorite product in this fragrance line is the after bath dusting powder. Using it is like traveling back in time to the 1940's! So glad it's never been discontinued.

Reminds me of McClintock's Number 3, maybe not quite as sweet. Florally freshness done in a very couture way! Did I mention it is clean as well? Not waterfloral or soapy clean - just fresh and crisp. A bit more green than I care to deal with in 8 hours though...

SPARKLING! The topnotes completely interface with the heartnotes showcasing the springtime flowers bursting forth from this juice! My initial impression is similar to that of Guerlain's classic Champs Elysees. The green notes breathe freshness into the rose and peony, inducing a slightly watery aire. (Maybe a little reminiscent of L'eau D'Issey - albeit softer and not as woody on the drydown.) If you're a fan of either CE or L'ED'I - give this fragrance a try!

After sampling this, and thinking it was wonderful, I bought a bottle. After 2 days, I did'nt like it anymore. I found it stark. I also had trouble giving it away...didn't work for me at all.

Sorry, this is a mish-mash of notes that really don't work well together...waterflorals, spice, and patchouli...it's a mess, by far the worst Chanel I've ever tried.

Sophia Grojsman - marvelously talented! I LOVE 'Nude' and 'Tresor' and 'Paris'...BUT...I do not like 'Christian Lacroix'. This CL scent comes off very bitter to me. For some reason unknown to me, this mix is completely un-attractive! Sorry.

An odd, stale smelling scent, obviously not a fragrance for me.

Heaven Sent is a lost - but not forgotten - treasure! A spicy floral with a dry and powdery dry down...it makes me think of sparkling fairy dust, glimmering perfumed particles gently falling to earth ~ sort of magical! (I don't know what the re-vamped 2001 version smells like, I'll be sure to try it when I find it.) There is also an understated sweetness in this potion. Bath and Body currently makes a scent called "Moonlight Path" which is reminiscent of Heaven Sent. To me, it is ageless!

Champs-Elysees is a masterfully blended floral who's popularity has withstood the test of time. Top notes of rose come across sweet and light, not heavy at all. This floral is quite transparent and yet has excellent staying power. Perfect fragrance choice for warm weather ~ bring on the heat! Another odd point to be made: when I apply Champs-Elysees, my spirit is lightened. Happiness and smiles come so easily...how can you not love that!

I've never really been a fan of Cacharel fragrances. Promesse is wearable though! It's subtle notes are well blended and fresh. Beginning with citrus and floral then muting them a bit with a woodsy base - just right for spring. As far as it's staying power or sillage, I think it would be the best type of floral for a scorching hot summer day or even a sticky humid evening.

For me, this deep rosey potion is not good. I must give credit for a very complex and interesting evolution, as it does have several distinct phases. (Because of this, I suggest you sample Stella awhile before deciding if it's "you".) On my skin, each series of notes was offensive with the heart notes being the least disgusting. On a more positive note, Stella Rose Absolute is a more wearable rose fragrance ~ I would recommend it above the original Stella.

This smells exactly like a car air freshener my friend used to hang on the rear view mirror of her 1980's Pontiac Sunbird! Because of that association, I really can't imagine wearing it as a perfume. The only thing I can say is it's not completely offensive.

30 years ~ must be something to it! I liked this one on a boy when I was in high school. On a recent trip to the grocery store, I saw it was still being sold so I sneaked a little sniff. I still sort of like it! Great memories!

This casual scent is watery and sharp. It is simple and straight forward, bearing no complexity or depth. Smells fresh scrubbed and squeaky clean. If you're looking to purchase a gift for a girl aged 12-17 this might be just right.

This fragrance leaves me flat...nothing special here. Begining Middle and End ~ Blah Blah Blah. There are many other scents with distinct personalities, Ja'dore is mediocre at best.

Ladylonestar and calchic have both written accurate reviews of this underrated treasure. This scent somehow reminds me of YSL's Rive Gauche ~ probably the aldehydes ~ although the drydown is just ever so slightly sweet and very crisp. VERY fresh and clean. The staying power is incredible as well. Mossy but not green. I wore this for many years. Close friends and family members thought 'I just always smelled nice'. (As if my own chemistry could smell so good!!!) They never new it was NUDE until I switched fragrances!!! Suddenly they said 'you smell different...' My point being: Nude is a potion that compliments one's own personal chemistry. It is sort of "all American" in the clean & fresh genre. If you have the opportunity to try this one, please do.

JHL is one of my all time favorites ~ Any man interested in wearing a floral frag, or interested in a note of cinnamon, JHL is it! I interpret it as the male version of Cinnabar.

Rive Gauche (2003 version) in my opinion is not much different from the original, launched in 1971. The current product lists Aldehydes - Rose - Oakmoss - Vetiver in its notes. For some reason I can never isolate the rose in it! Rive Gauche is not a recommendation for anyone having a serious aversion to aldehydes...you would most definitely not appreciate this scent...now that's out of the way, to the rest of you I say "dive right in" this mix of softness is actually sharp!?! Very clean. I would also think of this as a unisex fragrance...kind of suprised they bothered with a male formulation. Wonderful year around scent. It takes heat very well.

Like a bowl full of blackberries drizzled with honey, this potion is nectar sweet - and men just seem to be attracted to it! I always come back to a little Poison now and again. The most wearable formulation is the Esprit de Parfum, and only a dab - Brilliant!

Years back, I used to like this one alot. Since becoming familiar with superior floral frags, I cannot stomach this smell anymore. If I want a crisp, bright floral with tenacity I will definitely choose Lauder's original Pleasures over this!

The "Celebutante". The girl who wears this is dolled up and looking for some attention! She chooses her clothing, shoes, hairstyle, handbag, cocktail and lipstick based upon who will be watching! Needless to say, a bit superficial, but still unique and well turned out - a sight of beauty to behold! I like this aldehydic candied rose, but Drole de Rose by L'Artisan comes off with a touch more class.

More jacinthe than bois here...this hyacinth is green, fresh and raw. Much like mother natures's own presentation! If I had less experience with florals, this one would captivate me, but since floral frags do entice this nose - I've smelled Luten's and been spoiled! I'm going to suppose that Anne Flipo created this lovely scent...as her signature is delicate, and I'm reading Jacinthe des Bois as such. If you are in the market for a light, fresh, authentic floral this shouldn't disappoint. This soliflore interpretation is along the same lines as Verte Violette - also from L'Artisan, which I prefer. Thumbs up for a springtime flower ~ well done!

THIS IS TUBEROSE! Carnal Flower is one of the most wearable flowers for men...not too sweet, it's actually quite stealth for a delicate flower! In fact, I prefer this one on a man, and suggest Estee Lauder's Private Collection Tuberose Gardenia for a woman. I would love to smell a groom wearing this CF (and his bride wearing ELPCTG!) what a garden wedding!

The notes for this parfum are:

Top: Wild red berries, Peach, Creme de Cassis

Middle: Osmanthus flower, White peony, Jasmine

Base: Musk, Indian sandalwood, Amber, Patchouli


I gave a quick spritz to the back of my hand as I passed through a very crowded Nordstroms. In a matter of 1 hour I received 2 compliments - from complete strangers! This shocked me, as I didn't think the scent was THAT unique or appealing...very strong. On me, the amber and sandalwood basenotes lasted forever. A very classy scent, rich and heady. Reminds me of another fragrance that I can't put my finger on...at any rate, this one's sure to be a success! Based upon the general response (of complete strangers) go give yourself a spritz!

Update: I've come back to this one, and am very glad I did! IMO THIS is what a 'celebrity' scent should be ~ worthy of an Oscar. The fruity opening is dense and rich, sweet but just right. When the middle floral notes roll in, they lay delicately on the skin, releasing a 'just right' vibe. Peony can be difficult...but this one is nicely paired and balance with the other notes. A fruity floral that's different, high quality and bottle worthy ~ It's truly a winner.

First off let me state I do not feel this is a 'watered down' version of the original Shalimar.

Opening with bergamot, this shape shifting beauty begins with the scent of lemony custard. Velvety smooth, bright and citrusy, with some vanilla in the backround...as this blend evolves I'm reminded of how Jean Nate used to smell, clean and bright. More time passes, the citrus dissolves, and the vanilla simmers up to the top. Here is where the "Guerlain" becomes unmistakeable. At this point in Shalimar Light's development, I can easily recognize the genetic match between this version and the original.
I find this rendition to be quite a nice fragrance, extremely wearable and modern.

I tested the edp with high expectations, only to crash and burn! This one lost it's punch on me after the first 5 minutes. It rapidly weakened into a sharp, non-descript eau de cologne...I did'nt hate it, but I didn't enjoy it either.

Wow, powerhouse is right! Calchic nailed this one dead on. My initial impression of this rich, heady oriental by Margaretha Ley; is Christian Dior's Poison - the original. It is spicy and sweet, with womanly sillage to spare. The flowery part of this Escada is like that of Givenchy's Ysatis...soapy, heady & also a powerhouse frag! The orange blossom here is front and center throughout it's extra long life! Less is more with this juice - if you over apply this stuff, it will end up 'wearing you'. I do like it, on occassion!

Juicy and tangy/sour opening ~ in a very good way! I cannot recall a single fragrance that has actually smelled tangy and sour; like a real citrus fruit. AMAZING! The initial burst of topnote lasts for mere seconds, then a more rich orange note infuses with ginger. I haven't read this anywhere but I distinctly detect cardamom. For my entire life mom baked scandanavian type breads using this spice and I tell you: that cardamom note exists here in this blend! Mandarine Tout Simplement is probably one of the most original fragrances I've ever encountered. I adore it. * as an update ~ I did purchase this scent, but found it very difficult to wear...I never felt that it was suited to me or appropriate for any occassions in my life...I'm still enamoured by this one, but sadly, have no desire to put it on.

This is a gorgeous rose fragrance! To my nose it is like L'Artisan's Voleur de Roses ~ only with a fresh living rose! The rose/patchouli/vanilla trio here is excellent! A simple formula plus quality ingredients equals a winner. I literally cannot stop sniffing my wrist. After about 4 hours, I'm a bit annoyed that LV is still strong as ever on my skin. It has worn my nose down. I read that this frag was designed intentionally to be very linear...well...it is. Which is what prevents me from buying a bottle. (I would most likely buy Cleopatra by Tocca instead) If you are looking for a rose/patchouli/vanilla frag with exceptional staying power ~ that remains intact from the very first spritz ~ this is what you are looking for, and may very well purchase without hesitation!

With a name like Cleopatra, this fragrance has to be exotic! For me, this blend which starts off with juicy grapefruit then heads straight to the base - the tuberose and jasmine show up, but seem blended into the strong base. The musk, vanilla, patchouli combo here is sensual and reminds me of Narcsiso Rodriguez for Her, and a little bit of Lady Vengeance by Juliette Has a Gun. At the end of the day, Cleopatra is a pleasant scent, maybe not so exotic but most definitely womanly. It's mediocre on longevity...LV is much more tenacious...but I find myself occassionally craving this one!

This is a beautiful floral blend! Light, fresh, and close wearing. The most obvious floral note is linden, which is crisp. I much prefer this version to the 'extreme' version - because I don't get the overload of pink pepper! For me, La Chasse Aux Papillons is bottleworthy and would be a very safe gift.

This rose is fresh, lush and clear, with accents of candied violet dancing off each petal! A stand out among a multitude of rose fragrances. I like it particularly for its' non-cloying authenticity ~ Thumbs up for sure!

This fragrance is very much about tuberose! (Purplebird7's written an excellent description!) White creamy tuberose and spicy vetiver rest upon a base of vanilla & sandalwood. It is so true that just when you think the topnotes are going to be too much, they calm, then ease skillfully into an extremely desireable oriental. Mahora seems as though she may be the illegitemate offspring of a Samsara-tuberose affair! I'm glad to have found this wonderful frag!

The notes here include:

Bergamot, Melon, Heliotrope leaves, Hibiscus, Ylang, Freesia, Jasmine, Sandalwood, Flamboyant wood, Vanilla, Amber, Musk

Wow, what a list! When I close my eyes and smell Flowers Of The Caribbean...I smell vanilla. Lots of it. Beyond that, there is a floral mix that merges well with that potent vanilla. It almost has a "Guerlain-ish" tone! A very likeable summer/resort fragrance. A CSP creation that doesn't smell like dessert...nice change!

Begins with a very bold and fresh blast of lemon/mandarine/grapefruit ~ then dries down to smell like Fresh's Sake. It ends up on the sweet side. OK, but not that special. I guess if you find it for around $15.00 at an outlet it might be worth a purchase.

BOLD! Lots of rose, patchouli, vanilla, incense and woods in this blend. As previous reviewers note, it is a deeply European styled scent well suited to cooler weather. I can't say it's for me, but I LOVE to catch a whiff of this on some passer-by. Which is fairly easy, it's got incredible sillage!

I'm sampling the edp of Jala, and it's potent. (I understand there is an edt version, which could be more my taste.) At any rate, frangipane is definitely in this blend, and it is very loud! I much prefer a softer take on that note. This Jala gives me a feeling like something is stuck in the back of my throat. Plasticky. Sorry, I don't like this one at all.

Berry and plum compote drizzled with honey followed by a few sniffs and sips of brandy! A tinge of leather, vanilla and wood rounds out this upscale gourmand. I agree with all the previous commentaries and find ROBYOGI's to be most accurate. Heavy, different, intoxicating!

Un Folie de Rose is heavy, thick, rich and powerful. I compare it to the likes of EL's Youth Dew. For my own selection of fragrance, I cannot enjoy either one! Way too much for me, smells like the "cloying old lady" perfume on my skin - however, I am giving this one a thumbs up because when I washed it off ~ the remaining 'core' of this frag was gorgeous. Yeah, the true essence of it's composition is worthy of praise. So if you like 'em strong, with full speed ahead type sillage, give this Rosine a try!

Breathtakingly feminine! An absolutely gorgeous soft white floral blend! Not cloying whatsoever. Fresh, powdery, soft, very wearable for most any occasion or season. Comes off slightly oriental for me, exquisitely blended! I might even say the powdery musk contains a form of iris. This one's going on my wish list for sure!

Florence really comes off more like an old world Parisian fragrance instead of old Italy! The opening of violet petals and vivacious bergamot is lively, young and fresh! Sweet as well. IMO you have to like violets to enjoy this scent. While I'm not a big violet fan, I do think this is a very good product...the dusty iris compliments the sugary topnotes just fine! Excellent sillage and longevity.

Dusty iris and dry oakmoss nestled within the signature Creed base. It's definitely not as sharp as most florals from this house. Unisex, and easy wearing in the heat of summer. Given it's birthdate of 1968, I find it timeless in presentation ~ especially now with the current influx of iris frags. I'm actually suprised how much I like this one!!!

I'm sort of in-between SHYCAT & TOVAH on this one...yes, the lemon/camomille combination come off as 'tea' for sure.
I don't personally care for the blend of notes here, but I love TOVAH's personal anecdote! (And her description of Park Ave. makes me want to love this scent!) But at the end of the day, I just don't care for it very much at all.
My chemistry is in conflict with PA. Maybe it's the rose, or even the paperwhite...but something's off kilter.

Just as in L'Artisans' Mandarine Tout Simplement, Timbuktu makes great use of my most favorite spice note - cardamom! I absolutely adore it, and am very pleased to find it so prominently displayed. Timbuktu is really a masterpiece fragrance. I say that because of all the vivid imagery it creates for each individual, including this wide array of perceptions...

'...Irish Spring soap'