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Fragrance Gift Guide

Holiday Gifting with Guerlain

November 22, 2024

Guerlain Holiday Gift Sets 2024

I am so excited to share a luxury beauty gift guide today with some stunning sets from Guerlain. They’ve kindly gifted a selection of their fragrances for me to share and I am thrilled to host a giveaway too! If you’re the ultimate perfume lover or have someone in your life who has everything, Guerlain has some really special sets I think are unique.

For Black Friday and Cyber Week they have some special gift with purchase options online from 11/25 thru 12/2:

  • Spend $100 and receive an Abeille Royale Night cream (7ml)
  • Spend $275+ and receive an Abeille Royale Night cream (7ml) + Gift Set with Abeille Royale minis and pouch with code THANKS24
  • Spend $500+ and receive an Abeille Royale Night cream (7ml) + Orchide Imperiale Sampler Set with code MERCI24
  • Spend $1,000+ and receive an Abeille Royale Night cream (7ml) + Orchide Imperiale Sampler Set + 3 wick luxury candle with code MERCI24

I really love their discovery sets as I do not have easy access to a Guerlain counter. They’ve added a few new ones from the L’Art + La Matiere line this year I think are exceptionally beautiful. I’ve also tried their Aqua Allegoria line for the first time with another set.

Luxury Beauty Holiday Gift ideas from Guerlain

The Perfumer’s Sets

There are three Perfumer’s Sets from Guerlain. These have beautiful miniatures that have a selection of the L’Art + La Matiere perfumes. They’ve brought back the Iconic Harmony ($395) and Floral Harmony ($395) both containing 8 minis with a twist off cap. Each bottle has 10 ml of product. They also have a new trio with three of my personal favorites.

Guerlain Perfumer’s Sets - Iconic Harmony and Mini Trio

The Iconic Harmony Set has Neroli Outrenoir, Spiritueuse Double Vanille, Rose Barbare, Cuir Beluga, Musc Outreblanc, Angelique Noire, Herbes Troublantes and Oud Nude.

Guerlain Perfumer’s Sets - Iconic Harmony

Guerlain Perfumer’s Sets - Iconic Harmony

This year they added a new variation called the Iconic Eaux de Parfum Set ($190) with three pieces including Neroli Outrenoir, Angelique Noire and Musc Outreblanc.

Guerlain Perfumer’s Sets - Mini Trio with Neroli Outrenoir, Angelique Noire and Musc Outreblanc

Out of all the ones I’ve tried I love Neroli Outrenoir, Angelique Noire and Musc Outreblanc the most which happen to be the three scents in their new holiday mini trio.

The Exceptional Set

Another new launch is a miniature set with their Signature Extracts. This is the first time I’ve tried any of these scents. They are the high concentration versions and after testing a few of these I think they are exquisite. If you’re one who wants something with a very potent long lasting fragrance these are stunning.

Guerlain The Exceptional Set Perfume Discovery Set with 6 Extracts

The Exceptional Set ($630) has six miniatures of Iris Pallida Extrait 6, Bergamote Fantastico Extrait 11, Jasmin Grandiflorum Extrait 30, Tonka Sarrapia Extrait 75, Vanille Planifolia Extrait 21 and Rose Centifolia Extrait 1. I am still working my way through all the perfumes but the gourmand ones are so beautiful, I think they’re perfect for holiday and I cannot wait to wear them all.

Guerlain The Exceptional Set Perfume Discovery Set with 6 Extracts

The first one I tried was the Iris Palladia Extrait 6 which has a beautiful blend of sweet and wood with a tiny bit of powdery almond and musk. It’s velvety and floral all at the same time. As a citrus lover I’m also smitten with the Bergamote Fantastico although I have my eye on a few other citrus scents from Guerlain that I still want to try.

Personalized Gift Ideas

Personalized Guerlain Musc Outreblanc Perfume

Guerlain also sent a bottle of the Musc Outreblanc which I have been eyeing for over a year. They allowed me to personalize the bottle which I think gives it such a beautiful exquisite touch. I don’t know that I’ve ever been gifted a perfume this special! You can customize the plate on the cap, the ribbon color, seal and also add an engraving to the bottle. You can add this personalized touch for any of the L’Art & La Matiere perfumes.

I did not expect to love this customization this much, but if you have any favorites from Guerlain and do not have a boutique near you, I highly recommend trying the personalization feature online whether it’s something for yourself or a friend.

Guerlain L'Art and La Matiere Musc Outreblanc - personalized

I also think their new Flacon Sac Travel Spray ($180) and Refills ($180) are so beautiful. This is quite a splurge but there are a number of scents to choose from and I think it has a WOW factor you won’t find in any other perfume brand.

Aqua Allegoria Sets

Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Mandarine Basilic Forte Set Holiday 2024

I’ve always been curious about the Aqua Allegoria line. I have several on my radar and wishlist but haven’t purchased any yet. Mandarine Basilic Forte is one on my wishlist and it comes in a beautiful Parfum Gift Set ($135) this year. As the ultimate citrus perfume lover this is a dream come true for me.

They also have Aqua Allegoria sets with the Floralbloom Forte and Rosa Rossa Forte.

Winter Must-Have: Lip Oils

Guerlain KissKiss Bee Lip Oils

One last mention for a Guerlain favorite. I think their KissKiss Bee Glow Lip Oils ($40 each) are the best lip oils I’ve tried. Full review + swatches I posted a while back here. I still love them very much. The formula is the best for that lush, cushiony and hydrating feel. Lips remain well hydrated even after product has faded. The colors are sheer but add a fresh pop of color and anytime a reader asks for a lip oil recommendation the Guerlain one is it!
I think it’s a great beauty splurge to treat yourself this holiday season if you haven’t tried one yet. I’m hard pressed to pick a favorite although I have been wearing Pop Rose Glow and Honey Glow the most.

Guerlain KissKiss Bee Glow Oil

Guerlain KissKiss Bee Glow Oil swatches

Guerlain Holiday 2024

That wraps up my Guerlain holiday gift guide. Be sure to check out all the holiday gift sets online at Guerlain. Every order arrives beautifully wrapped to perfection in a gift box and holiday bow. They also have samples available at checkout.

They have a lot more to choose from this year including Skincare Sets and more Fragrance Sets.

I’m so excited to be able to giveaway an extra set I have of the The Exceptional Set to one reader (US only). To enter for a chance to win simply complete all the steps in the widget below. Giveaway will run through 12/1/2024 11:59 PM est. I’ll pick a winner through the widget and email them directly on 12/2.

Enter through the widget below. It’s best if you enter via a Chrome or Safari browser to use the commenting system I have on this blog.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Many thanks to Guerlain for gifting a beautiful selection of holiday gifts.

Diptyque Fragrance Home / Interiors

Diptyque Papier Collection

September 30, 2024

Diptyque Papier Collection

It’s been a while since I’ve added any new Diptyque launches to my home collection as I have been on a self-imposed candle ban trying to use up all the candles I currently have. The new L’Eau Papier Collection caught my eye and by the time it launched I felt like I had used up enough to justify two more splurges. I love the L’Eau Papier Eau de Toilette for a fresh clean mix of white musk, rice steam accord, mimosa and blonde wood accord. They added a Papier (Paper) Candle and Encre (Ink) Candle to the collection along with a few other scented Papier items. I’m 10/10 in love.

L’Eau Papier

Diptyque L'Eau Papier Eau de Toilette and Hair Mist Perfume

The L’Eau Papier Eau de Toilette ($130 for 50 ml to $180 for 100 ml) is a unique clean minimalist kind of scent. It’s light, gentle with a hazy feel. It’s hard to imagine what a paper fragrance smells like but when you smell this scent it just makes sense. Diptyque added this in a few other formats. I decided to try one the L’Eau Papier Hair Mist ($72 for 30 ml) and I love it. It has pretty good lasting power although it is still very soft.

Candles

Diptyque Papier Collection - Papier Candle and Encre Candle

There are two limited-edition candles in this launch and I love them both. The Papier Candle smells just like the perfume. It’s a very soft and subtle scent but does fill the entire room within a few minutes. I love it. It has a crisp and clean vibe.

Diptyque Papier Collection - Papier Candle

Diptyque also created an Encre Candle (ink) in this collection. It’s a mix of Indonesian patchouli and black liquorice and has a smokey vibe to it. It’s a softer creamier version of Feu de Bois. I wasn’t sure what to expect as I’m not really liquorice fan, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised! I think it’s a great summer to fall transition kind of scent.

Diptyque Papier Collection - Encre Ink Candle

I’ve been really happy with the purchases, however they don’t really fit the usual Diptyque vibe to me. Most Diptyque scents are more dynamic and a little more complex while this collection is more minimalist and subtle. I still love everything, but if you’re new to Diptyque and these are the first things you end up trying, just know it’s different from most other things Diptyque.

I still think Baies is their best candle.

Scented Matches and Accessories

Diptyque Glass candle holders

As a Diptyque fan I also added a few other items to my home collection. I love their glass candle holders and photophores. They launched a Mini Ribbed Candle Holder ($84) for their minis. It’s so cute! When I decided to order it they were sold out online so I called one of the NY stores to have them ship it to my house. It has since popped up back in stock online a few times. You can set an alert if you want to order it online although I don’t know if it’s a permanent item.

Diptyque Glass candle holders

Mini Candle Holder, Small Candle Holder and Standard Candle Holder.

I also tried two of the Scented Matches Sets ($30 each). These are longer matches in a paper box that were released with their refillable candle collection.

Diptyque scented matches

I asked the New York store which ones were their most popular ones and they told me the Moss and Orange Blossom. They are scented which makes them fun but there is really nothing super special about them to justify the splurge (in my opinion). I do think they’re beautiful and having longer matches is always a plus for me so they ended up being worth it just to have and try them. I don’t know that I’ll repurchase them or buy any of the other scents.

Diptyque Papier Collection

Overall love. Have you tried these yet? If not what kinds of scents are you loving for the home this time of year?

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You can find the Papier Collection out now. Available at Diptyque, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s and all other Diptyque locations.

P.S. Thank you for everyone who has messaged me about the recent hurricane. We were very fortunate that only the edge of the hurricane hit Tampa Bay. Our area in St Petersburg still experienced massive storm surge (this was the biggest storm surge in over 100 years in our area).

Andrew and I were not located in an evacuation zone so we stayed put and the counties here have been very proactive about warnings, alerts and providing resources for help. So many of the beaches, waterfront areas and many neighborhoods had life changing flooding and damage. We lost power for 3 days but no flooding to our home. So many have been very working hard 24/7 to repair broken power lines, clean up fallen trees. The storm surge was so bad many cars and boats floated to very odd places.

My in-law’s place is by the water and they had a lot of flooding inside their home and there is a lot of damage there. Their place is in a mandatory evacuation zone so nobody was there when the hurricane hit, but the damage is devastating. Andrew and I spent a few days cleaning everything out for them. Still, we have been very fortunate and we are grateful. Thank you everyone for your kind wishes and for checking in on me over the past week.

Fragrance

Best Summer Perfumes

August 1, 2024

Best Summer Perfumes

above: mirror, agate tray, marble tray, earrings

I have so many favorite fragrances right now. Summertime scents are my favorite to wear and luckily I live in Florida where it feels like it’s summer year round!

I’ve tried quite a few new brands and scents from samplers this year including Parfums de Marly, Kilian, Ex Nihilio, Giardini di Toscana, Valentino. I went down a rabbit hole wanting to try more and more after watching some fragrance YouTubers. There are so many options out there and I have to say that finding a few experts with similar taste is super helpful navigating the world of perfume.

There are so many stunning options for every mood but I’ve found that most on my current list are still my tried and true. I’ve split my favorites by type. I’ll also rank my top 5 most worn ones at the end.

Best Vacation-In-a-Bottle Scents

Creed Virgin Island Water

Creed Virgin Island Water

Creed Virgin Island Water ($345 –  $470, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue) remains at the top of my list for the ultimate tropical scent. There’s nothing like it. It has the perfect mix of freshness, tropical fruit and coconut. It’s well balanced, unique and smells expensive. If you haven’t checked out their refillable atomizers I highly recommend them. They’re so beautiful and you can refill them with any scent.

NOTES: Lime, Bergamot, Tropical Fruits, Coconut Milk, Coconut Water, Jasmine, White Flowers, Tonka Bean and White Musk

Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc

Best Tom Ford Perfumes for Summer Soleil Blanc, Eau de Soleil Blanc and White Suede

Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc ($155 to $235 Nordstrom, Sephora, Ulta Beauty)  will also always be at the top of my list. I alternate between this or the original Soleil Blanc. It’s fresh with a beautiful coco de mer + coconut vibe. I know some of you do not like the lighter Eau de Soleil Blanc version and only prefer the original Soleil Blanc. They pull very similar on my skin with my current favorite being noticeably lighter and fresher.

Eau de Soleil Blanc Notes: Coco de Mer, Ylang Ylang from Comores Island, Bergamot Flower

Kilian Sunkissed Goddess

Kilian Sunkissed Goddess + Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc

NOTES: Ylang-ylang essence, tiare flower, coconut

Kilian Sunkissed Goddess ($295, Nordstrom, Sephora, Saks Fifth Avenue) was a spring time purchase and I think it was 100% worth the splurge. It has been several years since I tried anything from Kilian. I bought a sampler set and each one is very different and unique from what I’ve smelled in other brands. There are so many beautiful stand outs, but they didn’t really fit my personality. I think I might revisit them later in the year. I did fall in love with the Sunkissed Goddess. It’s vacation in a bottle, similar vibe to the Tom Ford but the Kilian has stronger floral notes.

Vacation Inc.

Vacation Inc Eau de Toilette

NOTES: Petitgrain essence, Coconut water, Coconut milk, Bergamot, Solar Musk, Banana, Pineapple, Pool Water, Swimsuit Lycra, Sea Salt

Vacation Inc. Eau de Toilette ($60, Nordstrom, Ulta Beauty and in a Value Set at Nordstrom) is the ultimate summer time pool like scent. I don’t know that it’s for everyone but it smells just like summer. Has that summer sunscreen vibe that’s so unique and fun.

Fresh Lush Fruity

Parfums de Marly Meliora

Parfums de Marly Meliora

above: brass mirror, hoop earrings, knot bracelet, nail color Premiere Dame

NOTES: Red Berries, Raspberry, Lemon essence, Rose, Ylang-Ylang, Jasmine Tea, Vanilla, Musk, Cedarwood

Parfums de Marly Meliora ($375, Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus) was my first from Parfums de Marly. I finally tried the line this year with a sampler set and fell head over heels. It’s definitely in my top 3 favorites for all fragrance brands. I have so many on my wishlist from mini samples I’ve accumulated from a few orders now. I picked Meliora as my first which is very different from what I usually wear. I’m not really into fruity sweet scents but this one is just beautiful.

Dioriviera

Dior La Collection Privee Dioriviera

NOTES: Rose and fig

Dioriviera Eau de Parfum ($150 to $450, Dior Beauty) is still a favorite. I’ve talked about fig scents before and while I love it in candle form, it’s hard for me to find one that has the right blend to wear. Dioriviera is the best one because it has some floral rose notes mixed in. It’s very potent, fresh, crisp but warm at the same time. Very unique and gives you the feeling you’re on a fancy vacation. Select scents from the La Collection Privee Line are also now available in a Travel Spray Trio.

Phlur Father Figure

Phlur Father Figure Perfume

NOTES: Waterlily, Lush Fig, Cassis Buds, Orris Root, Iris Flower, Jasmine Dew, Skin Musks, Vanilla Madagascar, Patchouli Leaf, Sandalwood

Phlur Father Figure ($99 at Sephora, travel size for $29) is another beautiful fig scent. I think this could be a unisex option. It has a beautiful mix of lush fig with some woody notes. I don’t know that most would call it a summer scent but I think it’s one you can wear year round.

Citrus Lover Perfumes

I am the ultimate citrus lover for that crisp clean feel you get with citrus notes. These are my tried and true favorites that smell fresh without being too soapy (if that makes sense).

Celine Parade

Celine Parade Perfume

NOTES: Bergamot, Neroli, Vetiver, Musk and Oak Moss

Celine Parade is my most worn fragrance. I have to tell myself to take a break from it every now and then to mix it up. I think it’s so under-rated. It’s fresh with strong notes of bergamot and vetiver. The added musk makes it soft while the moss adds a bit of green feeling to it. Lasting power is strong on me. This one is a bit harder to find as you can only find it in Celine boutiques and online. They do offer a Sampler Discovery Set and a Miniatures Discovery Set if you can’t get to a store to try them in person.

Celine Fragrance Collection Review

Chanel Paris-Biarritz

Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Paris-Biarritz

above: Gloss 116, hamptons straw hat, straw bag

NOTES: Grapefruit, Mandarin, Lily of the valley accord, Vetiver and White Musk

Chanel Paris-Biarritz Eau de Toilette ($113 to $150, Chanel) is my second most-worn perfume. It’s been a go-to for years now. I love this for the soft citrus mix. It’s light so if you need something very strong this will most likely be too light for you.

Chanel Paris-Riviera

Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Paris-Riviera

NOTES: Sicilian orange, Petitgrain, Jasmine, Neroli, Sandalwood and Musk

Chanel Paris-Riviera Eau de Toilette is a slightly stronger and sharper variation of the Paris-Biarritz. It’s more citrusy and crisp. This is another one I really love.

Fresh and Timeless

Parfums de Marly Valaya

Parfums de Marly Valaya

NOTES: Bergamot, Mandarin, White Peach, Orange Flower, Nympheal, Vetiver, Akigalawood, Ambrofix, Musk

Parfums de Marly Valaya ($220 to $375) is my newest discovery and I am obsessed with it. I know musks can be hit or miss for many of you. I love this for the classic clean and crisp feel. The mix of bergamot and vetiver add freshness to it. I also splurged on the smaller size even though it’s incredibly expensive. We still have some trips planned so I now have the smaller one to bring with me.

Creed Aventus for Her

Creed Aventus for Her

NOTES: Egyptian green apple, pink berries, Indonesian patchouli, Italian bergamot, Bulgarian rose, Turkish rose, Indian sandalwood, styrax, musk, sweet peach, cassis, lilac, amber, ylang-ylang

Creed’s Aventus for Her ($300 to $445, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks) is as classic and timeless as it gets. It’s floral, green and fruity. The apple adds a unique fresh twist to it while the rose gives it a feminine touch. Also available in a 3-Piece Travel Set and 5-Piece Travel Discovery Set.

Chanel No 5 L’Eau

Chanel No 5 L'Eau Drop perfume BEAUTY LOOKBOOK

NOTES: Lemon, mandarin, orange, rose, jasmin, ylang-ylang, vetiver, cedar, musk

Chanel No 5 L’Eau ($155, Chanel.com) isn’t a new scent but Chanel launched it in limited-edition packaging in a drop form. It’s beautiful and crisp. It’s clean and sharp and very strong.

Phlur Missing Person

Phlur Missing Person Perfume

NOTES: Skin Musk, Bergamot Nectar, Sheer Jasmine, Fresh Cyclamen, Neroli Blossom, Orange Flower, Sandalwood Australia Oil, Blonde Wood, White Musk

Phlur Missing Person ($99 at Sephora) isn’t really a summer scent but I think it’s timeless and can be worn year round. I love this for the warm and cozy feel. It’s like skin but better. I own it in the body oil and hand cream too. It’s a solid win.

Byredo Mojave Ghost

Byredo Mojave Ghost review via The Beauty Lookbook

above: hoop earrings, brush, marble coaster

NOTES: Ambrette, Jamaican nesberry, Violet, Sandalwood, Magnolia, Chantilly musk, Crisp Amber, Cedarwood

I have been neglecting Byredo this summer, but pulled out Mojave Ghost ($225 to $320) again and love it. It’s another clean crisp scent with some sweetness to it. It’s very unique and distinct. Soft but still a bit sharp with the crisp feel. If you haven’t tried it, I highly recommend checking out the discovery sets. They recently launched a Mojave Ghost Alcohol-Free version in the larger size. I haven’t checked it out, but it will be interesting to smell this in person!

My top 5 most worn scents this summer: Parfums de Marly Valaya, Creed Virgin Island Water, Chanel Paris-Biarritz, Kilian Sunkissed Goddess and Celine Parade.

What are your go-to summer scents this year? How many perfumes have you added to your collection this year?

Fragrance Sephora

Sephora Fragrance For All Event

December 19, 2023

Sephora Fragrance for All Event, Save 20% off

Sephora’s Fragrance For All Event is here with 20% off full-size fragrances for Beauty Insiders! The event runs through 12/24 with code FRAGRANCE20 at checkout (one-time use). They carry a wide range of perfume brands so if there’s something you wanted to try or stock up on this is a great time to save! Some exclusions apply. If you’re not a member you can sign up for free here.

Best Winter Perfumes at Sephora

Scent is seasonal for me so I rotate depending on time of year, but here are few that I really love.

Jo Malone Wood Sage and Sea Salt is my go-to for the best year round scent. It’s the best earthy woody scent with ambrette seeds, sea salt and sage. Nothing else compares and I love that it can also be unisex.

Jo Malone Wood Sage and Sea Salt

Wearing:

Phlur Missing Person Perfume

You girls know my love for Phlur and I would say my most reached-for scents are from this line. Missing Person is the best skin-like musk scent. It’s warm, cozy, skin-like with a tiny bit of spice. It has a soothing comforting feel to me with white musk, bergamot, blonde wood, orange blossom, jasmine.

Best Phlur Perfumes: Missing Person, Somebody Wood, Vanilla Skin

Phlur Somebody Wood is another one I love for a warm cozy sandalwood amber musk mix. I like layering this with Missing Person, but it’s great on its own too.

The Phlur Skin, Hair and Body Mists are beautiful. I think Vanilla Skin is one of the best cozy vanillas ever made. It’s sweet but not too sweet. Has a soft warm feel I think I could definitely wear year round.

Viktor and Rolf’s Flowerbomb

For date-night spicy scents, I think Viktor and Rolf’s Flowerbomb and YSL Libre are the best ones. I just tried the Libre Absolu Platine which has a fresh floral vibe to it (really pretty).

YSL Libre and Libre Absolu Platine

Best Sephora Perfumes to shop during the Fragrance for All Event

The Sephora Fragrance For All Events runs now through 12/24 for Beauty Insiders. If you’re not a member yet you can sign up for free here! Use code FRAGRANCE20 at checkout for 20% off full-sized perfumes!

If you’re shopping for last minute gifts they are offering same day delivery for select areas with Free Same-Day Delivery using code GETGIFTS (for beauty insiders only, ends 12/24 at 12pm PT.)

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Sponsored by Sephora.

Fragrance Gift Guide

Holiday Gift Ideas from Guerlain

December 18, 2023

Holiday Gift Ideas from Guerlain

We have one week before Christmas and I am so excited to share a look at some exquisite last minute gift ideas from Guerlain. They sent over a few things to try, all of which I think would make an exceptionally beautiful gift whether you’re looking to treat yourself or a perfume lover. I’ve ordered several things from Guerlain in the past year, and they always come beautifully boxed and wrapped.

For last minute gifts they are offering complimentary express shipping on all orders now through 12/21 and also offering a 4-piece Abeille Royale Gift Set on orders $200+ with code HOLIDAY2023.

Holiday Gift Ideas from Guerlain

Holiday Gift Ideas from Guerlain

Skincare Sets

For the skincare lover they have quite a few Abeille Royale Skincare Sets this year. If you love the Watery Youth Oil they have it in multiple sets, some come with cute makeup bags. The Honey Care Ritual Set ($195) has a full-size oil along with a small Abeille Royale Eye Cream and KissKiss Bee Balm in 258 Rose Glow (a pretty pink). This one comes in a boxed set.

Guerlain Abeille Royale Honey Care Ritual

Perfume Discovery Sets

Guerlain L'Art & La Matiere The Perfumer's Floral Harmony Set

I love perfume discovery sets and I think they make great gifts. They’re the perfect way to try on different scents at your own pace at home.

This year they have a few different perfume discovery sets for their L’Art and La Matiere perfume line. I bought one a few years ago and I absolutely loved it. I ended up splitting the set up among friends to try and sample. Guerlain perfumes are among the best in terms of quality and lasting power with a unique mix of options.

Guerlain L'Art & La Matiere The Perfumer's Floral Harmony Set

above: Floral Harmony Perfumer’s Set

They launched their Perfumer’s Set in two variations: the Iconic Harmony and Floral Harmony ($380 each). A lot of you have been asking for recommendations on floral perfumes and the Floral Harmony Set is a beautiful option to try and find your perfect floral. The set contains Neroli Outrenoir, Musc Outreblanc, Rose Cherie, Rose Barbare, Cruel Gardenia, Angelique Noire, Herbes Troublantes, Joyeuse Tuberuse.

I’ve already found 2 that I have on my wishlist for my next splurge. I’ve tried Musc Outreblanc a few times and love it for the soft clean skin like musk scent that has long lasting power. The Neroli Outrenoir and Herbes Troublantes are also both beautiful.

Guerlain L'Art & La Matiere The Perfumer's Floral Harmony Set

If you like a more diverse range of notes the Iconic Harmony is a great option. It has their Spiritueuse Double Vanille (one of the best vanillas I’ve tried) along with some of their other classics. It also has that Musc Outreblanc I love.

Their Hive of Wonders Advent Calendar ($720) is one of the most beautiful advent calendars out there. It has a mix of perfumes, mini candles, soaps, skincare and a few other things. All boxed up in a super chic bee hive. If you’re looking for the ULTIMATE splurge gift for the beauty lover, I can’t think of anything more luxurious than one these advent calendar gifts.

Guerlain Hive of Wonders Advent Calendar 2023

Guerlain Hive of Wonders Advent Calendar 2023

Perfume and Scented Options

The L’Art and La Matiere collection is absolutely beautiful. In my years of trying fragrances, I feel like there are few perfume lines that feel as luxurious as Guerlain’s. When you smell the line you can really tell the difference in quality of ingredients and the throw/ lasting power is very VERY good.

Guerlain Les Matieres Confidentielles Eau de Coton

I’ve been really curious about the Les Matieres Confidentielles line of Eau de Toilettes and my first experience is Eau de Coton ($180). It’s a fresh powdery velvety citrus. There is a hint of soft musk. I think it’s going to make a nice layering scent. On it’s own it smells like fresh cotton with a soft and airy feel. Notes include orange blossom, almond, musk.

Guerlain Figue Azur Scented Diffuser

Guerlain also has a full line of candles and diffusers. I know buying scents blind can be tricky but the Figue Azur Scented Diffuser ($130) is the most exquisite fig scent I’ve ever smelled. It’s sweet, fresh and green in a bright way. The throw on this diffuser is very strong. This one is quite the splurge but if you’re looking for a diffuser that will fill the entire room and one that looks beautiful too, this is something I think you will really love. I have my eye on one of the candles to try, Palais D’Orangers or Figue Azur both sound beautiful. (Candles are refillable.)

Holiday Gift Ideas from Guerlain

Available at Guerlain. There is still time for last minute gifts as they are offering complimentary express shipping on all orders now through 12/21 and also offering a 4-piece Abeille Royale Gift Set on orders $200+ with code HOLIDAY2023 (while supplies last).

If you’re looking for some last minute gifts I hope you found this roundup helpful!

Guerlain items gifted for review consideration.

Beauty Favorites Fragrance

Best Scents of Summer

July 31, 2023

Best Summer Perfumes Phlur, Chanel, Diptyque, Byredo

Rounding up the best summer perfumes I’ve been loving this year. I love a good citrus perfume and often wear it year round. My go-to’s are still from Chanel and Creed, but I have some new favorites this year!

Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Paris-Biarritz and Paris-Riviera

Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Paris-Riviera

Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Paris-Biarritz and Paris-Riviera Eau de Toilette Sprays ($98 to $142, Chanel.com) still remain at the top of my list for my most-worn fragrances. They’re fresh, bright and come in both full size and travel sizes (perfect for my bag).

RIVIERA NOTES: Sicilian orange, Petitgrain, Jasmine, Neroli, Sandalwood and Musk

Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Paris-Biarritz

Biarritz pulls a little softer while Riviera has a sharper more crisp feel.

BIARRITZ NOTES: Grapefruit, Mandarin, Lily of the valley accord, Vetiver and White Musk

Celine Parade

Celine Parade Perfume

NOTES: Bergamot, Neroli, Vetiver, Musk, Oak Moss

Celine Parade Eau de Parfum ($280 to $410 at Celine) is one I discovered over Christmas and it’s my favorite of all the Celine perfumes. Full review of all the scents here. This one could definitely be considered unisex. To me it’s like a dressier more edgy variation of the Chanel Les Eaux perfumes I love.

Sample sizes are not available in this one they offer a Discovery Coffret ($385).

Celine Fragrance Collection Review

Dior Dioriviera

Dior Dioriviera Perfume Review

NOTES: Rose and Fig

I bought Dioriviera Eau de Parfum ($150 to $450 at Dior) without testing it as I do not have a Dior counter near me that carries the La Collection Privee scents. I watched a few videos on this before buying and based on their descriptions it was very difficult for me to be able to tell if I would like this or not.

Based on the name I expected a citrus sunshine kind of scent but it’s very different. It’s a lush mix of fig and rose. Sweet and bright – it smells like the scent you would smell in a very expensive five-star luxury hotel. I was very happy that I ended up loving it.

If you’re like me are unsure about this, if you order online at Dior they offer samples at checkout with orders which change often. They have Dioriviera as one of the samples right now.

Tom Ford Soleil Blanc and Eau de Soleil Blanc

Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc Perfume

Tom Ford Soleil Blanc ($295 for 1.7 fl oz) and Eau de Soleil Blanc ($155 for 1.7 fl oz) are also two long-time favorites. I cannot pick a favorite between the two. They both smell really close to me for that white flower coco de mer mix. Both are available in a smaller 50 ml travel size formats if you want to try/test a smaller option before committing to a full-size bottle.

Soleil Blanc Notes: Coco de Mer, Cardamom, Ylang Ylang

Eau de Soleil Blanc Notes: Coco de Mer, Ylang Ylang from Comores Island, Bergamot Flower

Loewe Paula’s Ibiza Eclectic

Loewe Paula's Ibiza Eclectic

I currently own both of the Loewe Paula’s Ibiza perfumes and my favorite is Eclectic Eau de Toilette ($110 for the full size, $42 for the travel mini). It’s one of the most unique summery woody floral scents I own. I don’t think it will be everyone’s cup of tea as it’s very complex but I find it very different and I love it. If you like sandalwood scents I think you will like this one. I think it can also be worn in fall.

NOTES: orange flower absolute, jasmine sambac, Madagascan mandari, black pepper, incense essential oil, frankincense, coconut, vanilla, ylang ylang, musk and sandalwood

Creed Virgin Island Water

Creed Virgin Island Water

NOTES: Lime, Bergamot, Tropical Fruits, Coconut Milk, Coconut Water, Jasmine, White Flowers, Tonka Bean and White Musk

If I could only wear 1 perfume for summer Creed Virgin Island Water ($345 to $1,205) would be it. It’s a luxurious summer vacation in a bottle and to me nothing else compares. It makes you feel like you’re on a tropical cruise vacation. Has an aquatic vibe with tropical sweetness mixed in.

If you do not have a Creed counter or boutique near you they offer Customizable Sampler Sets online at Creed along with some pre-made sampler sets too.

Vacation Eau de Toilette

Vacation Inc Perfume

NOTES: Petitgrain essence, Coconut water, Coconut milk, Bergamot, Solar Musk, Banana, Pineapple, Pool Water, Swimsuit Lycra, Sea Salt

The Vacation Inc Eau de Toilette ($60, on sale at Ulta Beauty for $39 right now) has a classic pool like scent. Like pool water, sunscreen and salt mixed together. It’s light but fresh. Reminds me of childhood summers.

Diptyque L’Eau Papier

Diptyque L’Eau Papier

NOTES: White musks, Mimosa, Blonde woods accord, Rice steam accord

Diptyque L’Eau Papier Eau de Toilette ($125 – $175) was a new splurge for me and very different from most Diptyque perfumes I’ve tried. It has a natural skin like vibe, like fresh clean linen but cozy and crisp at the same time. Has a soft skin musk like feel. The scent feels really nice in the summer heat.

Byredo Loves

Byredo Bal D'Afrique and Mojave Ghost

I’m a die hard Byredo fan. My favorites are the ones I feel like can be worn year-round. You can find lots of Discovery Set Trios or Sampler Sets available if you do not have a counter near you. Bal D’Afrique is one of the most unique creamy scents. It’s lush and sweet and has very long lasting power.

NOTES: Bergamot, African marigold, Bucchu, Violet, Cyclamen, Vetiver, Moroccan cedarwood

I also really love Mojave Ghost which has a fresh summery crisp feel to it.

NOTES: Ambrette, Jamaican nesberry, Violet, Sandalwood, Magnolia, Chantilly musk, Crisp Amber, Cedarwood

Phlur

Phlur Missing Person

Phlur is my second-most worn perfume line and I feel like I’ve fallen in love with so many of their scents. They have an updated Discovery Set with 10 scents online at Phlur. You can also find the perfume line at Sephora. Missing Person is still my favorite for a nice skin-like floral musk you can wear year round.

MISSING PERSON NOTES: Skin Musk, Bergamot Nectar, Sheer Jasmine, Fresh Cyclamen, Neroli Blossom, Orange Flower, Sandalwood Australia Oil, Blonde Wood, White Musk

Phlur Solar Power Perfume

Solar Power was launched in the spring and I love it for the floral sunny vibe it has. It’s like sunshine in a bottle. I feel like this one was made for me!

SOLAR POWER NOTES: Italian Red Mandarin, Sun-Drenched Bergamot, Jasmine Absolute, Neroli, Orange Flower, Driftwood, Solar Musk, Sea Salt

Phlur Father Figure Perfume

Their latest launch was a pleasant surprise, Father Figure is a beautiful fig. It is very rare that I can wear fig scents – I almost always love them for the home, but they usually turn on my skin. I love that this one isn’t too sweet on my skin. Feels like a fresh juicy burst of fig + summer.

NOTES: Waterlily, Lush Fig, Cassis Buds, Orris Root, Iris Flower, Jasmine Dew, Skin Musks, Vanilla Madagascar, Patchouli Leaf, Sandalwood

Best Summer Perfumes Beauty Lookbook

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What have been your favorite scents this season?

Fragrance

Celine Fragrance Collection Haul & Review

January 27, 2023

Celine Fragrance Collection Review Parade

I’m excited to share a roundup of Celine Fragrance Collection today! I love all things Celine but only recently tried their perfumes while in Miami over the holiday. During our most recent trip one of the associates walked past me and I had to stop her and ask what she was wearing. She pulled out the Parade fragrance and it was love at first spritz. I bought the 3.4 ml of Parade ($255) along with the Ivory Travel Spray Case ($135) and travel refills ($100 for a set of 2) and I’ve been wearing it nonstop since Christmas.

Celine Fragrance Haul and Review

I shared a sneak peek of my Celine haul on my stories back in December and I received a record breaking amount of DMs about the perfume line. Which ones did I try in store? What are the best ones? What did I think about Black Tie? Reptile? I actually only smelled that one scent Parade while I was in store. I liked it so much I didn’t even think to try the others but my curiosity got the best of me and I ordered the Coffret Miniature II Discovery Set ($385 for 10 minis x 0.34 fl oz each).

Celine Coffret Miniatures II Set Review

After testing all 10 in the set I still think Parade is the best but there are definitely 3-4 others I could see myself wearing. I’ve reviewed these in order of my favorites (most favorite to least). On me all of these have really good lasting power. For Parade I notice that I don’t smell it on me after around 4 hours but I think my nose just gets used to it. Andrew can smell it on me long after I can’t smell it on my skin.

The packaging and presentation is stunning with these perfumes. Very simple and streamlined and they come with a magnetic cap. The full sizes come in two options 3.4 fl oz or 6.8 fl oz. I bought the smaller one.

Celine Eau de Parfum Parade

Celine Eau de Parfum Parade

Celine Eau de Parfum Parade Travel Atomizer and Case

Now a look at all 10 perfumes in the set. Quick note that at this time there’s one more scent that’s not in the set that I didn’t try Bois Dormant.

PARADE

Celine Parade Eau de Parfum

BERGAMOT, NEROLI, VETIVER, MUSK, OAK MOSS

Parade is one of the most unique beautiful citrus scents that with a juicy sparkling bold vibe. It could definitely be unisex as it’s not an overly sweet citrus. The bergamot is balanced with the vetiver and oak moss. You girls know I love the Les Eaux de Chanel in Biarritz and Riviera (also citrus scents). Both of those are lighter and brighter while the Celine pulls a bit more complex and mossy.

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DANS PARIS

Celine Dans Paris Eau de Parfum

BERGAMOT, CORIANDER SEED, LAUREL BLOSSOM ACCORD, MUSK, VANILLA

This is my second favorite in the lineup! It’s a unique light vanilla scent. Smooth and well balanced, slightly sweet, not too heavy or rich, has a powdery vibe slight hint of musk. The laurel blossom adds a really interesting mix that adds a tiny bit of freshness. It has a subtle floral feel, but mainly has a vanilla feel to it.

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SAINT-GERMAIN DES-PRES

Celine Saint-Germain Des-Pres Eau de Parfum

NEROLI, PETIT GRAIN, WHITE ORRIS BUTTER, HELIOTROPE, VANILLA

Saint-Germain Des-Pres is another beautiful scent. It’s a fresh powdery vanilla citrus floral mix. The powdery feel is subtle but definitely there. The vanilla adds some warmth and petit gran adds some earthy vibe. The neroli adds some green freshness. The mix is really unique and fresh. Smells like a breath of fresh air.

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BLACK TIE

Celine Black Tie Eau de Parfum

WHITE ORRIS BUTTER, CEDAR, TREE MOSS, VANILLA, MUSK

Black Tie is a beautiful vanilla. This one to me is the most vanilla-dominant scents. It has a powder sweet feel but still super smooth. For me I love the idea of a good vanilla scent but finding one I can wear can be a bit tricky in the hot humid months. This is different from any of the others I’ve tried and loved and I think it is one I could wear year round. While I love Diptyque Eau Duelle, Creed Sublime Vanille, Guerlain Spiritueuse Double Vanille – they pull stronger and rich. Celine Black Tie has a smoother feel to me.

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LA PEAU NUE

Celine La Peau Nue Eau de Parfum

BERGAMOT, ROSE ABSOLUTE, WHITE ORRIS BUTTER, RICE POWDER, VETIVER

La Peau Nue is a fresh soft floral and slightly green and powdery. Smooth and clean without being too crisp. Has a very luxurious soft hint of rose. Almost like a well-balanced fresh rose with a watery vibe in the sense that it smells fresh.

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EAU DE CALIFORNIE

Celine Eau de Californie

BERGAMOT, WHITE ORRIS BUTTER, PALO SANTO ACCORD, TREE MOSS, PATCHOULI

Eau de Californie is a scent that Andrew picked out on one of our trips and it smells amazing on him. It’s an amazing combination with a sophisticated vibe. It’s a little smoky, earthy and woody. The bergamot notes adds some freshness and rounds it out beautifully and to me prevents it from being too smoky. I tried this and like it better on him. I found it really potent on me but it pulls more subtle on him.

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COLOGNE FRANCAISE / RIMBAUD / REPTILE / NIGHT CLUBBING

Celine Perfume Rimbaud Night Clubbing Reptile

COLOGNE FRANCAISE

NEROLI, FIG TREE, WHITE ORRIS BUTTER, TREE MOSS, MUSK

Cologne Francaise pulls very masculine to me. Stronger and more potent than Eau de Californie. It has a more of a green feel with the fig and tree moss. To me this smells like a classic men’s cologne.

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RIMBAUD

LAVENDER, NEROLI, ORRIS BUTTER, WHEAT ACCORD, MUSK AND VANILLA NOTES

Rimbaud is another interesting mix. I’m one who loves lavender in a candle or bubble bath but not really a fan of wearing it. Rimbaud is a lavender perfume with a complex mix. The lavender dominates while the mix of neroli, musk and vanilla make for a really interesting perfume. It’s so hard for me to describe but you can definitely smell each of the notes as it dries down on the skin.

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REPTILE

CEDAR, PEPPER, TREE MOSS, LEATHER ACCORD, MUSK

Reptile is one I’ve seen quite a few reviews for! It’s another leather + woody scent with heavy mix of cedar and moss. This has a very smooth kind of feel to it. Not one I can see myself wearing but I am going to try to convince Andrew to try this one. He’s a die-hard loyal fan of Creed scents and it’s pretty much all he wears these days aside from the Eau de Californie.

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NIGHT CLUBBING

GALBANUM, WHITE ORRIS BUTTER, PATCHOULI, TREE MOSS, VANILLA, MUSK

Nightclubbing is such a unique scent. I think it would smell amazing on Andrew but this is one that did not work well with my body chemistry. It smells amazing in the bottle or spritzed on paper but turned on my skin (in a not so pleasant way). If you like scents heavy on the musk and patchouli with a hint of vanilla this one is worth checking out.

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Celine Fragrance Collection Review

Out of the 10 I tried my top 5 are Parade, Dans Paris, Saint-Germain Des-Pres, Black Tie and La Peau Nue. The Discovery Set is stunning and although it’s extremely pricey they give you a decent amount to sample. I wish the bottles had spritzers instead of the twist off caps and then I would rate it 10/10.

Parade is still my favorite and since these perfumes are spendy I don’t know that I’ll be buying a full size of any others yet. I have a lot of perfumes I want to work my way through anyways. Celine also carries a collection of candles and stunning candle accessories but I did not want to tempt myself so I didn’t allow myself to even look at them while I was in store.

If you want to see what I hauled over the holiday I posted a reel on Instagram!

That wraps up my Celine fragrance review. If you order a full size perfume online they provide samples for you to try first. The set and standard perfumes are sealed in a clear cello wrapped so as long as the wrapping is still intact they’ll allow you to return. I wish they sold the smaller samples – I hope they will in the future!

Available online and in stores at Celine.

Have you tried Celine perfumes? What did you think?