I may seem somewhat contradictory in praising Narciso Rodriguez's Narciso Eau de Parfum Radiante after deriding Creed's Eladaria. They share some similar floaty, gossamer characteristics, so let me explain. Indeed, Narciso leaves themselves open for criticism. The brand's musky shtick has been played out repeatedly. It's hard to differentiate one release from another, especially on … Continue reading Narciso Rodriguez – Narciso Eau de Parfum Radiante – More Musk
First Impressions – Creed – Eladaria – Everlasting Mineral Rose
I don't talk about Creed much on my blog. The hype around the house has seemingly dimmed over the years. I wonder if Gabe Oppenheim's exposé on the brand has had any impact. There's no doubt a million other brands would love to have an Aventus on their books, though. Their men's line still attracts … Continue reading First Impressions – Creed – Eladaria – Everlasting Mineral Rose
Maison Francis Kurkdjian – Kurky – The Curious Case Of Kurkdjian
It's a holiday Wednesday here, and I wanted to look at one of the more high-profile releases of 2025 so far, Kurky by Francis Kurkdjian. Even the most passionate supporters of Kurkdjian might find it difficult to praise some of his recent work. Perhaps, through gritted teeth. It's been one uninspiring release after another since … Continue reading Maison Francis Kurkdjian – Kurky – The Curious Case Of Kurkdjian
Carthusia – Intenso Collection – Basilico, Ginestra and Mirto
On paper, Carthuisa's latest trio, paying homage to three plants that form a vital part of the Mediterranean landscape, seemed a winner. But you don't play the game on paper; you play it on skin. And on skin Mirto, Basilico, and Ginestra didn't come to play. Antoine Lie and Luca Maffei combined to bring the … Continue reading Carthusia – Intenso Collection – Basilico, Ginestra and Mirto
Serge Lutens – Point Du Jour – Morning Has Broken
For a house built on its heavy, ambery, syrupy scents, Serge Lutens has produced its fair share of good, lighter fragrances. I've always been intrigued by L'Eau Froide, the brand's icy reprise to Cool Water. Despite its name, though, L'Eau Froide wasn't so much a Cool Water retort, but more of a return to basics … Continue reading Serge Lutens – Point Du Jour – Morning Has Broken
Clue Perfumery – Dandelion Butter – Sappy Green
I'd read a lot of positive feedback about Clue Perfumery, a new niche house from the US, based in Chicago. Flaconneur had posted on the brand last year on his blog https://perfumuschicago.wordpress.com/2024/08/17/get-a-clue/, and it had piqued my interest. As my sister was returning to Australia from New York in July, I thought it might be … Continue reading Clue Perfumery – Dandelion Butter – Sappy Green
Guerlain – Rosa Verde – A Chic Summer Garden Party
I make a point of keeping up to date with the Aqua Allegoria (AA) launches. Guerlain doesn't make it easy, though. There's been plenty of new fragrances and collections coming off the production line in recent years from the famed French house. I find it challenging to keep pace, not to mention confusing. In 2022, … Continue reading Guerlain – Rosa Verde – A Chic Summer Garden Party
Santa Maria Novella – Acqua – On Fragrant Pond
Earlier this year, I posted my thoughts on the garden series from Santa Maria Novella – I Giardini Medicei – Quercia. At that time, I'd tried five of the eight fragrances in the line. I've since sampled Ambra and Acqua, with Incenso being the only one left to try. Today I'll share my thoughts on … Continue reading Santa Maria Novella – Acqua – On Fragrant Pond
Mini Reviews – Parfums Dusita – Tonka Latte & Rosarine
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Fragonard – Flower Of The Year 2025 – Fleur de Citronnier
This year's flower of choice from Fragonard is the lemon blossom. It may not quite reach the heights of last year's Lilas, but it's still an enjoyable, inexpensive novelty. I sampled Fleur de Citronnier in cool weather, but I'm sure it would hit the mark on a hot summer's day. Lemon blossom from my tree. … Continue reading Fragonard – Flower Of The Year 2025 – Fleur de Citronnier