Fragonard -Flower of the Year 2024 – Lilas

I haven't seen many lilacs growing in my part of the world, but I did have some of these butterfly-bush plants (also known as summer lilacs) blooming in my yard at one point. Every year since 2010, the famous Grasse-based perfume house Fragonard releases a "Flower of the Year Perfume." We've had, among others, jasmine, … Continue reading Fragonard -Flower of the Year 2024 – Lilas

First Impressions – Masque Milano – Catherine – White Floral Duo or Trio?

Catherine smells green and white. Earlier this year, Masque Milano added to its Le Donne di Masque collection with a trio of new releases (Diana, Vaiana, and Catherine). Vaiana's solar-themed structure smells of tropical fruits and tuberose. Diana, built around neroli, geranium, and spicy citrus, smells aromatic and masculine. My favourite from the line is Catherine, characterised by … Continue reading First Impressions – Masque Milano – Catherine – White Floral Duo or Trio?

Gallivant – Nida – The Scent of Sunflowers?

Nida features sunflowers in its notes. It's been several years since I've tried something new from Gallivant. And it's not because I don't like the brand; it's just that they fell off my radar and became slightly more challenging to find in Australia. However, with the brand finding a fresh Aussie stockist, I've tried some … Continue reading Gallivant – Nida – The Scent of Sunflowers?

A Wave Of Marine Perfumes – Room 1015 – Wavechild, Francesca Bianchi – The Mariner’s Rhyme & Dusita – Pelagos

Is it just me, or has this past year seen a resurgence of marine fragrances? Besides the above-titled releases, Carner Barcelona & Andrea Maack have dipped their feet in the water with aquatic-themed launches. And just the other day, while walking through the department store, I noticed one of the pioneers of the oceanic 90's … Continue reading A Wave Of Marine Perfumes – Room 1015 – Wavechild, Francesca Bianchi – The Mariner’s Rhyme & Dusita – Pelagos

Style Over Substance – Atelier des Ors – Villa Primerose and Blue Madeleine

Far too many brands these days put all their stock into presentation and hackneyed storylines, neglecting the most important thing: the actual perfume. Frustratingly, some of the worst offenders (Kilian, Xerjoff) are among the most popular brands. My post today focuses on the house of Atelier des Ors. The French house has been around for … Continue reading Style Over Substance – Atelier des Ors – Villa Primerose and Blue Madeleine

First Impressions – Parfum d’Empire – Un Bel Amour D’été 

It is a perfume for gardenia lovers and lovers of white florals. First Impressions - Parfum d'Empire - Un Bel Amour D’été - One of the best modern noses, Marc Antoine Corticchiato of Parfum d'Empire fame is back with a new perfume. I own one fragrance from the house, Cuir Ottoman, but several others hover … Continue reading First Impressions – Parfum d’Empire – Un Bel Amour D’été 

Book Review – 1001 Perfumes – The Guide – Daniel Barros

Sunday mornings are always a good time for relaxing and reading a good book. And what better way to do it than with a new perfume book? 1001 Perfumes, The Guide by Daniel Barros is a well-written book for all fragrance enthusiasts.  Barros divides the guide into several sections. The opening chapters feature numerous essays, … Continue reading Book Review – 1001 Perfumes – The Guide – Daniel Barros

First Impressions – Chanel – Comète

Another iris for Chanel? It's always an event when Chanel releases a new perfume. And it's even more of an event when that release forms part of their higher-end Les Exclusifs collection. Indeed, it's been some time since their last offering, the smouldering amber Le Lion, hit the shelves. Undoubtedly, that perfume was a departure … Continue reading First Impressions – Chanel – Comète