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Best Summer Perfumes

August 1, 2024

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 ($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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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?

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Beauty Favorites Fragrance

Best Scents of Summer

July 31, 2023

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-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

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

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).

Dior Dioriviera

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 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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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What have been your favorite scents this season?

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Fragrance

Celine Fragrance Collection Haul & Review

January 27, 2023

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.

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).

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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!

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A post shared by Sabrina | beautylookbook (@beautylookbook)

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?

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Beauty Favorites Fragrance

Fragrances I’m Loving Right Now

December 5, 2022

I love trying new perfumes and today I have a holiday roundup of the fragrances I’ve been loving this holiday season. I’d love to hear about what you’re wearing right now so let me know in the comments what your go-to is!

Byredo Bal D’Afrique

Byredo Bal D’Afrique ($200 to $280) remains one of my all time unique favorites. It’s a warm creamy cozy scent I think is super unique. If you like scents that pull a little woody with an amber mix definitely check this one out. For those of you who don’t have a Byredo store or counter near you they have a few samplers you can order. Their Discovery Set ($50) has six of their best sellers and for the ultimate perfume lover La Grande Selection ($240) has 24 mini 2 ml vials. With the larger set they’ll send you a voucher for $200 to use towards any 50 ml or 100 ml scent on their website.

Top notes: bergamot, African marigold, bucchu
Middle notes: violet, cyclamen
Base notes: vetiver, Moroccan cedarwood

Phlur Somebody Wood & Missing Person

Phlur has won my heart this year with some beautiful soft scents. Missing Person ($96 or $98 for the duo) is one I wore non stop earlier this year. I have it in the travel size too and carry it in my purse. It’s one of the best soft floral musks. It has a natural skin like vibe with a mix of white musk. Also available in the Body Lotion and Shower Gel.

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

For fall to winter Somebody Wood* is my favorite. It’s unisex and I love the wood + musk combination. It’s not too heavy or woody and I love anything with a bergamot mix. I’ve used up the Shower Gel* and plan on ordering another one very soon.

Top notes: Bergamot, Lemon
Heart notes: Jasmine, Saffron, Cyclamen
Base notes: Sandalwood, Vanilla, Musk, Amber, Moss, Cedarwood

Both are available at Sephora and Phlur. If you can’t smell or test in person check out their Discovery Set at Sephora (seven scents) or all nine at Phlur.

Tory Burch Essence of Dreams

Tory Burch launched their Essence of Dreams Fragrance line earlier this year and I love all five. Every scent in the lineup has a fresh and bright feel to them. They have an uplifting vibe. I bought the full sizes of Cosmic Wood and Electric Sky ($29 to $125). Right now I really love Cosmic Wood. If you like a soft floral woody spice with green notes definitely check that one out.

Top: cardamom, ambrette
Middle: jasmine, sage
Base: vetiver

They now carry the Discovery Set ($65) at Nordstrom which I think would make a really cute gift. Each scent is also available in a small travel spray version and Nordstrom has an Essence of Dreams Trio Set ($50) with Sublime Rose, Divine Moon and Electric Sky.

Jo Malone Wood Sage and Sea Salt

Jo Malone Wood Sage and Sea Salt will forever be a signature scent for me. There are lots of fun discovery sets this holiday season and a lot of them are on sale. Nordstrom has the Cologne Collection Set ($115, marked down to $97.75) with English Pear & Fresia Cologne, Lime Basil & Mandarin, Wild Bluebell, Wood Sage & Sea Salt and Blackberry & Bay. They also carry the Cologne Intense Collection ($160) with Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense, Myrrh & Tonka, Velvet Rose & Oud, Dark Amber & Ginger Lily and Oud & Bergamot.

The Jo Malone website often has nice extra deluxe size samples with orders that change frequently. I ordered their Christmas Cologne Collection ($115) which has newer scents that I’m excited to try out.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540

Maison Francis Kurkdjian is another perfume line I really love. Their Baccarat Rouge 540 is a classic rich creamy and unique scent. I bought the smaller 1.17 oz version which is nice to travel with or have in your purse. Notes include jasmine, saffron, cedar wood and ambergris. I’m really tempted to try the Shimmering Body Oil!

I tried their newest 724 Eau de Parfum earlier this year and really love it. It has a very similar feel to Aqua Universalis which I still have a lot left of so I didn’t buy it. It has a nice fresh clean feel.

Creed

Creed has a special place in my heart because it’s Andrew’s favorite. It’s pretty much the only cologne line he wears these days and he always smells amazing. His favorites are Aventus, Green Irish Tweed* and Silver Mountain Water. This year they have beautiful leather cases* in a limited-edition royal blue and a refillable atomizer*. I bought Andrew the 5-piece Fragrance Set for Christmas so he can have them on-the-go. I’m tempted to buy the women’s version for myself.

I have a few favorites too. I love Virgin Island Water for spring to summer. Aventus for Her* is a newer discovery for me which I started wearing this year and I love it.

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

The best vanilla scent is their Sublime Vanille* which is a soft powdery vanilla and tonka bean mix.

Top notes: Tonka Bean, Vanilla from Comoros (Africa)
Middle notes: Lemon, White Bergamot
Base notes: Musk, Tonkin

What are your favorite scents to wear this time of year?

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Press samples have a * next to them. All others purchased by me.

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Beauty Favorites Fragrance

The Best Scents That Smell Like Summer

June 28, 2022

I’m back with a summer roundup of my favorite summer scents this year! There are so many great new discoveries I’ve made. Happy to add a few new ones to my regular go-to’s. I have a look at 10+ scents that lift the mood for warm weather months.

Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel

above: Chanel beach towel (in stores, in action here), Butterfly Sunglasses (worn on the face and in action here)

If I had to pick one scent to wear this summer it would be Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Paris-Riviera Eau de Toilette ($90 to $140, available at Chanel and Nordstrom). I’m a huge fan of citrus scents and I love this one so much. On my skin it has good lasting power. This is one of Andrew’s favorites on me.

Paris-Riviera Notes: Sicilian orange, petitgrain, neroli, jasmine, sandalwood, musk

I also really love the Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Paris-Biarritz Eau de Toilette which I own in both the full and travel size. This one is a little softer compared to the Riviera option. Both are great citrus scents.

Paris-Biarritz Notes: Grapefruit, mandarin, lily of the valley, vetiver and white musk

above: Eric Javits Hamptons Hat, Squishee Isla Tote, Nail Color OPI Bubble Bath

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Jo Malone Aqua Lemon Cologne

above: Beach Towel, Loewe Small basket, Scarf, Celine Sunnies, Nail Polish OPI Lisbon Wants Moor OPI

Every summer I’ve fallen in love with at least one of the limited-edition Jo Malone scents. My classic year round go-to is the Wood Sage and Sea Salt, but I’ve worn it so much I try to mix it up. This year the Jo Malone Aqua Lemon Cologne ($75 for 1 oz, still available at Jo Malone, Sephora and Net-A-Porter) is my favorite of the newer ones. It’s packaged in a smaller size in a beautiful light aqua blue bottle. The lemon notes can be hit or miss depending on your taste, I really love this one!

Aqua Lemon Notes: Mandarin, Lemon Petitgrain, Cedarwood

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Bobbi Brown Beach Eau de Parfum

above: scarf, Crushed Oil-Infused Gloss in Sweet Talk, swimsuit, sunnies

The Bobbi Brown Beach Eau de Parfum ($80 for 1.7 oz, available at Bobbi Brown, Sephora and Nordstrom) smells just like summer to me. It has that pool beach vibe that makes you think of sandy beaches, pool time and coppertone sunscreen. It’s very potent and strong. If you’re looking for a classic summer beach scent this is it!

Bobbi Brown Beach Notes: Sand jasmine, sea spray, mandarine

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Vacation Inc Eau de Toilette

Out of all the new perfumes I’ve tried this year Vacation Inc Eau de Toilette ($60 for 1 fl oz at Ulta Beauty and Vacation.Inc) wins for the best scent that truly smells like summer. I love this one so much, I would say it’s tied with the Chanel for me. Their sunscreens smell amazing too!

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

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Creed Virgin Island Water

above: bucket hat, straw tote from Sezane (also in action here), sunnies 52 mm oval, sage stripe beach towel

Creed Virgin Island Water ($320 to $430, available at Creed and Neiman Marcus) is the ultimate tropical vacation scent. I’ve worn this for years and to me it’s the perfect summer time scent if you want to feel like you’re on a beautiful summer beach vacation. It has a very unique vibe – I’ve never smelled anything quite like it.

Notes: Jamaican Lime, Sicilian Mandarin, Sicilian White Bergamot, Hibiscus, Indian Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, Tonkin Musk, Tropical Wood

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Tom Ford Beauty

above: Naghedi St Barths Medium woven tote (comes with the pouch), knot bracelet + oval sunnies Celine, Tom Ford Gloss Luxe Crystalline

The Tom Ford Soleil Blanc lineup is another winner. I’ve loved both the regular parfum and eau de toilette for that coco mer vibe. You can find both at multiple retailers but Sephora has the most size options available.

Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc Eau de Parfum ($270 for 1.7 fl oz, also available in other sizes)
Notes: Coco de Mer, Ylang Ylang Comores Islands, Cardamom

Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc Eau de Toilette ($140 for 1.7 fl oz)
Notes: Coco De Mer, Ylang Ylang from Comores Island, Bergamot Flower

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Mizensir Blue Gin

above: small shell basket tote, beach towel, knot bracelet, sunnies 52 mm oval

Mizensir Blue Gin* ($260, available at Mizensir Parfumes) is a new one this year. It has a fun fizzy spicy fresh feel for summer. I think it’s very unique and if you’re looking for something warm and a tiny bit spicy definitely check this one out. They have customizable discovery sets online, Blue Gin isn’t available in the samplers yet but I hope they add it.

Notes: juniper, blackberries, Sichuan pepper, bitter mandarin, tonka bean, iris

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Dior Eden-Roc

If you like Jo Malone Wood Sage and Sea Salt you will also love Dior Eden-Roc ($125 to $350). It has a warm sea salt kind of feel to it with a mix of coconut and white flowers. It’s really strong and long lasting. I also ordered the Dioriviera Eden-Roc Candle which has a beautiful design on the exterior. I have not burned the candle yet but can’t wait.

Notes: white flowers, jasmine, coconut, sea salt, marine, pine and citrus fruit

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Runner Ups

A quick mention of three more that I’ve tried and loved. The Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Universalis is a beautiful light fresh clean scent. It’s a very calming kind of scent with notes of lemon, bergamot, white flower and light musk.

NARS Monoi Body Glow Oil II is the perfect mix of tiare flower, white frangipani, ylang-ylang and vanilla. A few years ago they had this in candle form and it was the perfect home summer scent. I wish they would bring it back!

Skylar Perfumes is a line I tried at Sephora and I think all of their scents are incredible. Salt Air is another great sea salt scent with a fresh clean feel. They have an Eau de Parfum Discovery Set if you want to sample them. I think this also makes a great home fragrance, sometimes I will spritz this around the house although I just realized the Skylar website has this in candle form. They’re having a 20% off sale sitewide and 40% off select scents through July 5 with code JULY4TH. I will be ordering the candle and probably a few more scents.

If you’re looking for a new summer perfume I hope you found some inspiration here! Out of all the ones I featured today I would say my top 3 would be the Vacation Inc, Chanel Paris-Riviera and Dior Eden-Roc.

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Best Summer Perfumes

June 30, 2021

With summer in full swing I wanted to round up my favorite summer perfumes for the season! I love this time of year for scents – especially anything with citrus or coconut! Here are my top picks for the best summer perfumes. As always I’d love to hear what you are wearing this summer!

Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc

Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc ($49 – $184, multiple size options available at Sephora) this is in my top 3 most-worn perfumes. It’s a timeless fresh kind of radiant perfume with coconut notes.

Notes include: Coco De Mer, Ylang Ylang from Comores Island, bergamot, jasmine, tuberose, amber and Moroccan orange flower

Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel

Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Paris-Biarritz ($80 – $130, exclusive to Chanel.com and Nordstrom) is the second in my top 3 favorites. It’s the perfect mix of citrus and floral. Notes include Sicilian Mandarin and Lily of the Accord with sea spray, also available in a Shower Gel and Body Lotion

Also shown above, Nails: OPI Bubble Bath, Rouge Coco Gloss 744 Subtil (swatched here, here and here), Eric Javits Hamptons Hat and Squishee Isla Bag

Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Paris-Riviera ($80 – $130, also at Chanel and Nordstrom) is another amazing citrus, it has Sicilian Orange and neroli with a crisp and bright feel, Andrew loves this one when I wear it 🙂

Also shown above, Gloss Rouge Coco Gloss 744 Subtil, Sandals: Tory Burch Basket Weave Espadrille Tie Sandal (review here), Sisley Phyto-Touch Bronzer, Eric Javits Hamptons Hat in Cream

Creed Virgin Island Water

Creed Virgin Island Water ($310 and up at Creed) is the ultimate summer fragrance! It was my first splurge from Creed and I’ve worn this one for years. I love the mix of bergamot, ylang-ylang and musk. It smells like a tropical vacation.

Top Notes: Jamaican lime, Sicilian white bergamot, Sicilian mandarin
Middle Notes: Indian jasmine, Hibiscus, Ylang-ylang
Base Notes: Tropical Wood, Tonkin Musk

Since Creed is quite the splurge and you might not have a counter near you, I do recommend checking out their Sampler Sets. They rotate them seasonally on their website and you can also create your own. They usually come with a voucher you can use towards a full size bottle as well. Another favorite from Creed is Love in White for Summer if you like crisp white florals, but I still think Virgin Island Water is the best.

Atelier Cologne Lemon Island

Atelier Cologne Lemon Island ($30 – $235, available at Atelier Cologne, Nordstrom, Sephora) as a citrus lover for perfumes I really love the latest from Atelier Cologne in their Lemon Island Cologne Absolue. It has lemon, jasmin and vanilla notes and smells like a citrus dream. I think it’s perfect for summer!

Also shown above: Chanel Le Vernis in Golden Sand (review here), Loewe Square Tote, Vitamin A Swim Wrap

Jo Malone Minis

Jo Malone Blossoms Cologne Discovery Set ($115, available at Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Sephora) is one of the newest sets with Red Hibiscus Cologne, Yellow Hibiscus Cologne, Frangipani Cologne, Nectarine Blossom and Honey, Orange Blossom. I love these minis for carrying in my purse and I think it’s the best way to try their line. There were 3 I had on my radar I wanted to try and I’m still in the process of testing but I can’t rave enough about these sets. I already love Orange Blossom!

Diptyque Ilio Eau de Toilette

Diptyque Ilio Eau de Toilette ($145 for 100 ml) is new for summer from Diptyque. It’s a unique floral with notes of pear and bergamot mixed and a hint of jasmin. It has a soft fruity feel but the floral notes give it a more green feel so it’s not too sweet. Unfortunately this is limited-edition and seems to have sold out so many places online. You might have luck in stores. Right now at the time of this post it is still available at Net-A-Porter and Bloomingdale’s – I highly recommend trying it if you can!

Notes: Prickly pear, bergamot, jasmin

Maison Francis Kurkdjian

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Universalis Eau de Toilette ($215 – $395 at Nordstrom) is one of the most beautiful clean fresh fragrances I’ve tried. I used to own the Eau de Toilette and used it up and loved it! I also adore this in the Scented Body Oil ($75) and Hair Mist ($65) versions to layer it. I was just about to repurchase a bottle of the perfume when they launched new variations for summer. I have the new Aqua Universalis Cologne Forte Eau de Parfum on my radar.

Notes for the classic version: Calabrian bergamot, Sicilian lemon, white bouquet, light and musky woods

Since this brand is also very pricey I bought their Discovery Fragrance Wardrobe over the holiday but found I still gravitate towards my two favorites, this one and Baccarat Rouge 540.

Molton Brown

Molton Brown Flora Luminare smells like sunshine to me! I have this in the Glowing Body Oil, Hand Cream and Shower Gel. It’s an instant pick me up anytime I apply the hand cream. Notes for the Eau de Toilette version and Body Oil below. The Body Oil is a really nice one, I love Molton Brown body products and find that so many of my friends and family love it too.

Top Notes: orange blossom, mandarin and ylang-ylang
Heart Notes: Polynesian frangipani, jasmine absolute and rose absolute
Base Notes: vanilla, cedarwood and musk

Love this Hand Gift Set with the hand wash, hand lotion and hand cream! I’m still missing the Coco de Mer line they discontinued so many years ago – it was one of the best!

My top 3: Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc, Chanel Paris-Biarritz, Creed Virgin Island Water

That wraps up my favorite summer scents right now! Would love to hear what you wear during the summer months – always eager to discover new options!

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Top 5 Perfumes I’m Loving Right Now

January 15, 2021

Happy Friday! I’m sharing a look at my Top 5 Perfumes I’m loving right now. I have a lot in my collection that I’ve accumulated. I am one who likes to switch things up frequently so I don’t have 1 or 2 signature scents. What I wear depends a lot on mood and time of year. Right now I thought it would be fun to round up my current Top 5. It’s moderately cold for Florida right now – once the weather warms back up I’m sure I’ll be reaching for more citrus and beachy scents.

Here are my favorites right now! As always I’d love to hear what your top picks are at the moment. I love reading about perfumes from what you have tried and love.

Bulgari Au The Blanc

Bulgari Au The Blanc is the one I feel like I would pick if I could only wear one perfume the rest of my life. I reviewed it a few months ago and love how it’s fresh, clean and light it feels. You can read my full review here. (Available at Sephora, Bloomingdale’s and Saks Fifth Avenue.)

Notes include: Artemisia, musk and white tea

Byredo Bal D’Afrique

There are so many I love from Byredo but Bal D’Afrique is one of the most unique scents I’ve tried. It has a sweet fruity and floral mix to it. Lasting power is quite strong and long lasting. I usually order from Nordstrom.

Notes include: Bergamot, African marigold, bucchu, violet, cyclamen, vetiver, Moroccan cedarwood

L’Artisan Mure Et Musc Eau de Toilette

L’Artisan Mure Et Musc Eau de Toilette is one of my long-time favorites, it’s one my bestie turned me onto! I have the smaller size but it’s more often available in the standard 100 ml. It’s one of the few sweet blackberry scents I can wear because it has a musky feel to it along with notes of lemon and warm white musk. I prefer the Eau de Toilette version (the Eau de Parfum version is sweeter to me).

Notes include: Blackberry, lemon, musk

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 is one I cannot believe took me so long to try. I don’t think it’s for everyone. Depending on how scents pull on your skin this may be too sweet for you. I love this as a strong amber floral with cedar wood. It’s hard to describe but almost has a vanilla-ish vibe with the warmth. You can buy this at a number of places like Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s and Saks. It’s available in a wide range of sizes, also a refill trio set. As of now it appears Saks is the only place I could find that sells the smaller size 1.18 oz online.

Notes include: Jasmine, saffron, cedar wood and ambergris

Jo Malone Wood Sage Sea Salt

Jo Malone Wood Sage Sea Salt is a favorite year round scent that has a fresh and earthy kind of vibe. It’s hard to describe but very unique and versatile. It’s one I probably wear the most frequently out of all the perfumes I own! (Available at Sephora, Nordstrom, Saks, Bloomingdale’s.)

Notes: Ambrette Seeds, Sea Salt, Sage

Some of the brands have sampler and discovery sets available. Many are seasonal or limited-edition. I’ve linked a few below. I find them to be hit or miss. It’s nice to be able to try them over a period of time at home since it sometimes takes a while for a scent to settle on your skin. I’ve really loved the ones from Jo Malone and Byredo that I’ve bought!

What are your favorite perfumes right now?

Share your favorites in the comments below!

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