Quote:
Originally Posted by
Fragrance_Extraordinaire 
Can DHI be repulsive in a way? I have a big family reunion for New Years and we're all gonna spend about 5 or so days together at the house, so I was wondering if it would turn off some people if I wore it around them. I mean who doesn't love coco during winter--but you'd be surprised

I wouldn't use the word "repulsive," but DHI is definitely NOT enjoyed by some people. It's a fragrance that is usually reserved for more formal, specialized occasions and is usually not worn as a daily fragrance.
Yes, many people here love DHI, but there are many here who don't care for it at all. One of the main reasons people don't care for DHI (aside from how strong it is) is because of its very strong iris note.....which many here describe as a "lipstick" smell or a woman's purse. I'm sure you know the smell. If you don't, you'll know it as soon as you smell it. It can be overpowering and usually one or two sprays is enough.
The cocoa smell, to me, doesn't come around fully until late in the fragrance, or until the iris starts to die away. A lot of people mistakenly buy DHI for the cocoa smell and are disappointed when they are overwhelmed by the iris.
If you're wanting a wonderful cocoa fragrance that has a decreased chance of being offensive, is enjoyed by most, and is very high quality, I would recommend Guerlain's L'Instant de Guerlain Extreme, commonly called "LIDGE" here on BN. Or, another alternative, is to buy the less potent Dior Homme for the same overall smell as DHI, but less of the oft offending lipstick note. Still a beautiful scent.