KIERIN NYC Launches New Perfume Collection

KIERIN NYC announced today its collaboration with perfumer, Mathieu Nardin, known for combining traditional techniques and materials with new innovations. The result is KIERIN NYC's new premium collection of fragrances, artfully crafted collages of scents with signature vibes and this comes just in time to switch up your fragrances for the summer season!

Mathieu, also the creator of Nectar for Commodity and Iris de Champs for Houbigant, masterfully encapsulates the art of storytelling with great, olfactive quality in the new KIERIN NYC's collection:

• Highline Flirt- fresh and magnetic with a blend of woody, floral and green.
• Nolita Noir- spicy and hypnotic with a harmony of chypre, floral and gourmand.
• Santal Park- woody and intimate with a refreshing hint of spice and mystery.
• Sunday Brunch- citrusy and cheerful with just the right touch of floral.

KIERIN NYC perfumes are clean and conscious, vegan, cruelty-free, free of skin allergens, parabens, phtalates, hypo-allergenic, using sustainable materials, no chemical stabilizers and made in the USA. Each scent is $78 and can be found on the KIERIN NYC website.

Dolce&Gabbana Dolce Garden Eau de Parfum Review

Dolce Garden Eau de Parfum is a delicious new flower blossoming in a garden where simple pleasures and spontaneity set the beat for a joyful dance during a lazy yet groovy afternoon. It truly is a joyful, solar aura blending citrus and cream. Oh, and the bottle… simply pretty!

With Dolce Garden -- a floriental gourmand -- the perfumer Violaine Collas captures its every nuance. In the sun-kissed top notes, juicy mandarin, bright Néroli and airy magnolia express its radiance. Coconut essence, a unique natural extract of the fruit’s white flesh, accents the creamy freshness of its petals. A silky almond milk accord evokes the traditional sweets of Sicily. Enriched with vanilla absolute and sandalwood, it extends the exquisite sensuality of the frangipani note into the drydown. An exquisite balance of freshness and sweetness, the scents of a blooming garden.

Dolce Garden Eau de Parfum Notes:

• Top Notes: Mandarin, Néroli, Magnolia
• Mid Notes: Coconut, Frangipani
• Base Notes: Almond, Vanilla, Sandalwood

To express the playful femininity of Dolce Garden, the unique designed bottle, the fragrance and flower cap take on a pastel pink portraying the innate delicatessen of flowers in bloom. Twining blossoms petals, the outer pack showcases a soft touch finish. A thin black grosgrain ribbon, presented in an elegant bow, is the signature of the Dolce line. In contrast, the green “garden” signature underlines the fresh, natural facets of the new fragrance.

Classification - Fruity Floral Gourmand

Season - Warmer Months

Sillage: 3-Moderate

Longevity: 3-Moderate

Bottling: 5

Launch Date: March 2018

Perfumer: Violaine Collas

Dolce&Gabbana Dolce Garden Eau de parfum ($118 - 75mL/2.5 oz.) is available at select retail locations around the globe. 

Cartier Launches New Scent For Spring

Cartier La Panthère Eau de Toilette became available in the United States, yesterday April 3! You may remember the luscious musk and gardenia influenced Cartier La Panthère Eau de Parfum that launched in 2014? And now the Eau de Toilette version is available just in time for spring! Cartier In-House Perfumer Mathilde Laurent created this fresh, floral scent that will have you feeling feminine and fresh all season long.

In the Eau de Toilette, Mathilde Laurent has tamed the musk and this light and floral scent is all about the gardenia. The gardenia is softened turning into a breath of delicate fresh petals -- bright, soft & radiant, making it the perfect warm weather fragrance. Much like a piece of jewelry, the bottle is designed around a precious stone that is sculpted into the head of a panther. The bottle is adorned with a pink band, symbolizing femininity.

Cartier La Panthère Eau de Toilette (2.5 oz, $120) is available online and in-store at Nordstrom and Cartier Boutiques.

Celebrate National Fragrance Day

Stating the obvious for all those experiencing the nor’easter -- day two of Spring 2018 and day two of SNOW! However, it is also National Fragrance Day and we can at least try to escape the lingering wintery weather with a few uplifting fragrances … oh, and some hot chocolate -- read on for our awesome recipe! 

The Classic Woman: 

Cartier La Panthère Eau de Parfum ($110) - A floral fragrance with feline notes, illuminated with gardenia, a lively flower peppered with chypre and velvety nuances and comprised of an accord in three parts, chypre, floral and musk.

The Wanderlust Seeker:

Proenza Schouler Arizona ($100 – Full Review For This Coming Soon!) - Inspired by nature, this scent includes an innovative floral accord of white cactus flower never before used in perfumery combined with a creamy orris sparking your spirit of discovery.

The Fun, Flirty & Outgoing Gal:

Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum ($115) - Containing 1,000 flowers in each bottle, this explosive floral scent captivates and transforms anything into something positive making it a new kind of flower power.

The Bold, Daring Man:

Cartier Declaration Eau de Parfum ($135) - A modern, elegant twist on a classic scent, this masculine and bold scent is intensely spice and woody makes for a perfect addition to any man’s routine.

Oh, you maybe would like a really delicious Hot Chocolate Recipe?

Hot Chocolate For When It Snows On The First and Second Day of Spring Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 cups milk
• 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• dash of salt (optional)

Method:

Pour milk into to pan at medium heat. Add cocoa powder and whisk to incorporate into milk. Stir in brown sugar, granulated sugar and vanilla. Stir until all ingredients are incorporated. Add vanilla and salt. Keep heating until liquid begins to steam up slightly. Serve and enjoy!

Happy National Fragrance Day!

Summertime Scents That You Should Try

Sweet Pea Bottle Created by Loy Allen

There’s been some sort of tomfoolery going on over the past few days … weather that’s attempting to have us believe that summer is gone and that autumn is here. Well, we know better. One brief respite from the dog days of August isn’t enough to convince us that there aren’t plenty of hot, humid days ahead. And if memory (and instinct) serve us correctly, that hot, humid weather is going to last well into the early fall.

You know that warm days and nights call for fresher, lighter scents that won't overpower you or those around you. No matter fruity or floral, one spritz of these fragrances will conjure up the sweet smell of summer and leave you feeling like the summer goddess (or god) that you are! So, with that in mind we thought that we would give mention to a few warmer weather scents that won’t break the beauty bank.

1.) Escada Taj Sunset ($49.99) - Exotic, juicy and summery as always, Escada Taj Sunset opens with notes of Alphonso mango, nectarine and blood orange. The heart features aquatic flowers with raspberry and pomarosa or Malay apple. The base consists of coconut, sandalwood and musk.

2.) DKNY Be Delicious ($36.99) - This is a bright, fresh and energetic fragrance, which matches a picture of a bold, but charming woman. The top features green notes, violet leaf, apple, grapefruit and magnolia. The heart brings tuberose, lily of the valley, rose and violet, while the base – sandalwood, amber and musk.

3.) Incanto Shine ($28.99) - Incanto is a fruity floral fragrance, in a colorful bottle adorned with carefree summer motives. It starts with fresh notes of pineapple, bergamot and passion fruit. Pink peony, freesia and peach are at its heart. The base consists of cedar, amber and musk.

4.) Marc Jacobs Honey ($53.99) - This buzzing fragrance energizes with the freshness of green pear and a bright splash of fruity punch and juicy mandarin. Orange blossom resides at the heart of the fragrance and mingles with the nectars of honeysuckle and peach for a note of sparkling femininity. Honey, vanilla, and smooth woods dry down to a warm, golden base.

5.) Vince Camuto Capri ($37.79)  - Capri Vince Camuto is an effervescent, floral-fruity fragrance with citrusy top notes of Violet Leaves, Juicy Pear, and Pink Grapefruit wash over a floral bouquet of Peach Blossom and Violet Flower to reveal a rich heart of Musk and Vanilla.  Like a cool Mediterranean breeze, this floral-fruity fragrance transports your senses.

6.) Tommy Bahama St. Kitts for Men ($22.39) - Refreshing and relaxing at its core, a zesty blend of Kaffir Lime, juicy Mandarin and tropical Star Fruit paired with Cedarwood, fresh Sea Salt and a Watery Accord, create an invigorating woody scent reminiscent of the sea breeze. The fragrance is rounded out with Driftwood, Ambergris and creamy Musk adding a salt swept warming effect like suntanned skin after a day in the sun.

7.) Vince Camuto Solare ($36.39) - A robust yet fresh scent profile is created by incorporating top notes of French Lavender, Juicy Mandarin, and Red Apple combined with Pimento Leaves, Wild Sage, and Cardamom and is anchored by a dry base of Sensual Musk, Tonka Leaves, Creamy Blonde Woods and Cashmere Woods.

All prices referenced are Summer 2017 special sale prices for FragranceNet.Com! Go stock up!

August 2015 ScentBird Perfume Subscription Review

For the fourth month, our ScentBird subscription arrived on time. So far, soooo good! Oh, you aren’t familiar with ScentBird? Okay, we’ll give you the breakdown of what ScentBird is all about.

ScentBird ($14.95/month) is a monthly fragrance subscription service, with subscribers receiving a .33 oz sized vial of perfume. Subscribers can choose their fragrance from ScentBird’s 350 plus perfume offerings or opt to receive ScentBird’s monthly-featured scent. First month’s subscription is sent with a velveteen drawstring bag and sturdy, chic atomizer, as well as instructions for how to use the atomizer. Subscriptions are sent out on the 15th of each month. Consecutive months, subscribers receive a vial of their perfume, which we find to be brilliant as it less waste and better for the environment.

Now, you have all the information that you need regarding how ScentBird works … well actually each month we seem to discover something new about this brand. For example, last month we discovered ScentBird’s gifting option -- a perfect gift for the girl who is off to college this month or for any perfume lover, and ScentBird’s Referral Program.

This month we finally realized that the lid of the perfume vial unscrews making the vial reusable and the perfect size to take on vacation! Team TME discussed ScentBird’s less waste, better for the environment concept and finding another makes us even more excited about the brand.

Our first two months, we opted for ScentBird’s featured scent, last month we chose our own and for August 2015 we switched back to ScentBird’s featured scent. The ScentBird August 2015 fragrance choice was Burberry’s Brit, which we absolutely hated. Yes, you read that correctly -- we hated this perfume! But, that is absolutely NOT a bad thing. In fact, it’s the entire point of the amazing ScentBird subscription service.

The ScentBird August 2015 fragrance choice of Burberry Brit was a .33 fl oz bottle. Burberry Brit Eau de Toilette costs $68.00 for 1.7 fl oz bottle. So, for $14.95 we were able to give the scent a good test drive without dropping a ton of money. As we’ve previously written, while many parfum houses do offer “samples,” (and some do not) those sample vials are approximately 0.06 fl oz -- hardly enough fragrance to determine if a particular parfum is your next “signature scent”. For more information about ScentBird, visit the brand online!

Fragrance Of The Month September 2014

Welcome Beautynistas and Suavies to our first “Fragrance Of The Month” feature! Each month, TME will introduce readers to fragrances that we’ve chosen to help you express yourselves through one of the most pleasurable and personal experiences … scent. Fragrance Of The Month offers a scent introduction, for both the gentlemen and the ladies, in hopes that you’ll find your true olfaction personality.

We can hardly believe that it’s the unofficial end of summer and that the fall season will begin in just a few short weeks -- September 22 to be exact. Although, today’s weather hardly reflects any sign of the cooler temperatures soon to come. And that, dear readers, means you’ve still got plenty of warm weather ahead. So without further ado, we give you Fragrance Of The Month September 2014!

For the ladies, we present Beso Del Mar by Spadaro Luxury Fragrances. Beso Del Mar (100 ml - $95) the newest offering from Spadaro having launched in February, is a Woody Citrus that is fresh and clean with a hint of seduction.

Beso Del Mar Notes ~

• Top Notes: Agave and Lime
• Mid Notes: Sand Accord and Hibiscus
• Base Notes: Driftwood and Musk

Upon application is a refreshing snap of citrus that lingers for a time before giving way to a seductive note of Agave, and then introducing a sexy blend of mid notes before finally resting into drydown that leaves a lasting essence driftwood with a hint of citrus. Yes the base note is musk, yet Beso Del Mar leaves your body scented with the essence of the sunset in the Caribbean. The bottle offers a clean and elegant design that is perfectly reflective of this perfume. Created by: Kim Spadaro; Season: All Seasons; Sillage: 3-Moderate; Longevity: 4-Long Lasting; Bottling-5

Beso Del Mar is available online at Spadaro Luxury Fragrances and select retail locations.

For the gentlemen, we present Artisan by John Varvatos. Artisan (124 ml - $84), which was launched in 2009 and is quite the classic men’s fragrance -- classic as in the way that we want our men to smell. The fragrance is a Woody Citrus/Spice blend that is clean and masculine like a freshly pressed button-down.

Artisan by John Varvatos Notes ~

• Top Notes: Sicilian Clementine, Tangelo, Mandarin, Wild Thyme, Marjoram, Lavandin
• Mid Notes: Orange Tree Blossoms, Murraya, Essence of Orange Jasmine Tree, Ginger extracts
• Base Notes: Kephalis, Georgywood, Amber, Musk

We’ve found that all too many men’s fragrances are overbearing and leave us begging for the wearer to simply stand elsewhere. However, that is not the case with this scent. The fragrance opens with a gorgeous citrus and spice blend and follows with a lasting woody impression. Artisan by John Varvatos is, as we’ve stated, masculine and clean and sexy. Artisan’s flacon was designed by Jon Cisler, with the bottle encased in hand-woven rattan. There isn’t anything that we didn’t enjoy about this men’s fragrance and we just may be asking our SO to make it part of their permanent stock. Created by: Rodrigo Flores-Roux of Givaudan; Season: All Seasons; Sillage: 3-Moderate; Longevity: 3–Moderate; Bottling-5

Artisan by John Varvatos is available online at John Vargas and Nordstrom.

We hoped that you’ve enjoyed our first Fragrance Of The Month and that you’ll stop back for more suggestions. Fragrance Of The Month October isn't going to be what one might expect! 

Au Pays de la Fleur Les 2014 Inédits and Néroli Blanc Perfume Collections Review

A garden to walk in and immensity to dream in -- what more could he ask? A few flowers at his feet and above him the stars” ~ Victor Hugo. It’s a lovely thought and evokes pleasant memories for me. The Makeup Examiner has a deep passion for scent, as so many of my happy memories are called back by the hint of a particular men’s cologne or the smell of my mother cooking a favorite dish.

These scents are part of my history and my present, and I understand that the memories are part of what make me who I am. I believe this is why I am so fascinated by the story behind the perfume and why I always try to find it and share it with readers. For anyone who is passionate about perfume, it is understood that the history of the scent is just as important as the scent itself.

Au Pays de la Fleur D’Oranger is a unique fragrance house routed in over 100 years of Roux family history. Virginie and Antoine Roux, the founders of Au Pays de la Fleur D’Oranger, pay homage to flowers from the famous region of Provence: Rose, Jasmine, Lavender, Fig, Iris, Tuberose and of course the flower that shaped their family’s destiny since 1903 … the Orange Blossom. The Roux’s continue to hold a passion for the blooms in the fields of the Bitter Orange and Centifolia trees that grew in La Colle sur Loup, near Grasse. The Roux’s history is what lays behind the inspiration of Au Pays de la Fleur D’Oranger latest offerings. Scents composed by Perfumer Jean Claude Gigodot are offered in two distinctive collections: Les Inédits and Néroli Blanc.

Néroli Blanc Eau de Parfum Intense Notes~

Top Notes: Orange Blossom, Néroli, Mandarin

Mid Notes: Jasmine, Candied Fruits, White Flowers, Orange Blossom

Base Notes: Vanilla, Balsams, Benzoin, Plum

Néroli Blanc Eau de Parfum Intense ($67), from the Néroli Blanc collection, is a luscious scent from first spritz. Offering a rapture of masterfully blended orange blossom, Néroli and mandarin that deliver olfaction into mid notes with sensual care. Drydown offers an exquisite blend of floral and fruit with neither being the dominant. Yes, this scent is seductive and classically French. Néroli Blanc Eau de Parfum Intense can, and should, be worn all year round. It is the scent that you will wear when you want to exude pure feminine confidence. To gentlemen readers -- Néroli Blanc Eau de Parfum Intense arrives in a linen satchel and the bottle is sophisticated, so if you’re looking for the perfect gift for her, this is it. Sillage: 3 - Longevity: 4 - Bottling: 5

Lavande Ombrée Notes~

Top Notes: Lavender, Bergamot

Mid Notes: Cinnamon, Rose, Cedar

Base Notes: Amber, Patchouli, Leather, Musk

Lavande Ombrée ($125), from the Les Inédits collection, offers an immediate pop of bergamot that quickly transitions to cedar with dry down leaving a lasting essence of patchouli. Lavande Ombrée is a Woodsy Oriental and a bit of a disappointment for those seeking a Floral, as the floral notes simply aren’t evident. That aside Lavande Ombrée is lovely and makes for a perfect perfume to wear during the cooler months. Sillage: 4 - Longevity: 4 - Bottling: 3

Au Pays de la Fleur D’Oranger perfumes are available directly from Au Pays de la Fleur D’Oranger (France) and various locations worldwide, Lavande Ombrée and Néroli Blanc Eau de Parfum Intense are available stateside at Indigo Perfumery.

Atelier Cologne Grand Néroli Review

Atelier Cologne Grand Néroli, launched in 2010, is a stunning scent. Backtracking for a moment, it’s important to call attention to Atelier Cologne itself. The perfumery conceived the idea of creating cologne absolues, which are fragrances based on traditional and classic citrus, but blended with a kick.

The specific scent of Grand Néroli ($170 – 200ml) is unisex and quite frankly, sexy. Atelier Cologne creates a written vision for each of its scent with Grand Néroli reading: “The windows were thrown open to let in the afternoon sun, along with a breeze of orange blossoms. She secured fresh flowers into her hair and her eyes sparkled with excitement and anticipation. She had been a whirl of precise motion in her final preparation and took pause to dream about the moment to come.” I love the vision and it is a perfect description of the whimsical essence of Grand Néroli.

Grand Néroli Fragrance Notes~

• Top Notes: Moroccan Neroli, Chilled Lemon, Sicilian Bergamot, Petitgrain
• Mid Notes: Galbanum, Oakmoss, Birch leaf
• Base Notes: Musk, Cedarwood, Vanilla

Upon application is an immediate opening of citrus that gently transitions to sexy mid notes with dry down leaving a lasting essence of masterfully blended floral, wood and musk. Reading the notes, one would expect to raise an eyebrow and run -- but Grand Néroli captures the essences of whimsy, strength and romance. I can’t describe the theme of this fragrance other than to state that Grand Néroli is Mediterranean and have seen it referenced as a summer scent. As for being just a scent for summer, while perfect for the season, this is one that should be worn year round.

Created by: Cecile Krakower

Sillage: 2-Soft

Longevity: 3 - Moderate; 6 hours or less

Grand Néroli is available online at Atelier Cologne and select retail locations.

Bond No. 9 Shelter Island Summer 2014 | Review

Launched on May 26, Shelter Island by Bond No. 9 completes the olfaction of the East End. With some 87 scents in its fragrance base, all inspired by the city of New York, Bond No. 9 is a rather interesting perfumery. To love a city so deeply, as to pay homage by immortalizing its iconic landmarks and geography through scent, is truly inspired.

Shelter Island is Bond No. 9’s offering for Summer 2014 and has a “beach-centric” theme. The bottle, as with all Bond No. 9 bottles, is aesthetically pleasing and modern with one side displaying deep blue and white strips, and the other a crisp white. 

Backtracking for a moment, Bond No. 9 released The Hamptons (2005), Montauk (2010) and Sag Harbor (2012) under creative director Laurice Rahmé and again the entire concept is inspired. You don’t have to be familiar with the geography of these areas to appreciate the intent of feeling for which Rahmé wishes to evoke in the perfume wearer. As for Shelter Island, it’s all about summer … the carefree days spent beachside.

Notes~

Top Notes: Citrus Zest, Black Pepper

Mid Notes: White Lilies, Algae Extract

Base Notes: Sandalwood, Amber Myrrh, Musk, Oud

Upon application is an immediate snap of citrus and pepper that gives way to calmer mid notes of white lily with dry down leaving a lasting essence of oud. Shelter Island masterfully weaves these beautiful notes taking the wearer on an olfaction journey. There is a very unique scent of balmy, beachside summer days and Shelter Island ($260-100ml, $195-50ml) exquisitely captures this fragrance. Sillage: 3-Moderate Longevity: 4 - Long-Lasting; 8 hours or less. Bond No. 9 Shelter Island is available online at Bond No.9 and select retail locations.

Aqua Hipnotes No. 2 Summer 2014 | Review

Launched in May 2014, Aqua Hipnotes No. 2 is the second offering in the Hipnotes Collection. The Collection itself is definitely intriguing, as each Hipnote perfume is a seasonal collaboration between Tru Fragrance and the most talented perfumers in the world. Each “note” is inspired by current trends in fashion, beauty and fragrance, and although The Makeup Examiner has only experienced Aqua Hipnotes No. 2 she’s anxious to check out Hipnotes No. 1 Spring 2014 … despite that summer is a just few weeks away.

As a relatively serious (albeit novice) perfume enthusiast, TME embraces the entire aesthetic of a perfume. And the experience of Aqua Hipnotes No. 2 begins with its packaging. For this edition of the collection, summer is captured at first glance with the perfume housed in an elegant black box and sleek sleeve. It immediately gets you excited for summer … and all the passion that summer brings.

Of course there is the scent itself, which is most likely why you’ve stopped by to read this post. When I’d read that Tru Fragrance had collaborated with Richard Herpin of Firmenich for Aqua Hipnotes No. 2, my heart started racing with excitement before first sniff.

Notes ~

• Top Notes: Sea Salt Accord, Rosemary, Cucumber
• Mid Notes: Calone, Hedione, Freesia
• Base Notes: Seaweed, Sandalwood, Cedarwood

Upon application is an immediate embrace of uplifting summertime essences, instantly evoking great memories of amazing times spent seaside. Think days at the beach and warm, breezy evenings sitting at a seaside café. Aqua Hipnotes No. 2 moves into a quiet release of Calone, Hedione, Freesia and drydown leaves your skin scented with a light mix of Seaweed, Sandalwood, and Cedarwood. Aqua Hipnotes No. 2 is sophisticated but uncomplicated. It’s a perfect summer scent and I would recommend keeping this one on hand all-year-round, as it would make an amazing mood enhancer in the midst of the next polar vortex.

Aqua Hipnotes No. 2 ($25 - .5oz), is available online at Tru Fragrance. Keep up with Hipnotes on Facebook and Twitter.

Rock Revival Rose Limited Edition Perfume Review

Buckle introduced their Limited Edition Rock Revival Rose Eau de Parfum in February and it’s the second in a series of Limited Edition Rock Revival perfumes from the brand. With an obvious objective to appeal to the rocker chic that lives inside all of us, the packaging hits the mark.

Rock Revival Rose ($49.95 - 3.4oz) comes packaged in an embossed and embellished rose gold box that matches the perfume bottle, which shimmers gold and has a metallic rose gold cap that’s studded with rhinestones. Aesthetically the bottle is fun, edgy and a little kick-ass. The bottle in and of itself peeks interest … but … The Makeup Examiner is not an easy woman to please and her interest fades fast.

Notes ~

Top Notes: Apple, Passionfruit, Quince, Nectarine

Mid Notes: Peach, Jasmine, Lush Rose, Magnolia

Base Notes: Sugared Musk, Tonka Bean, Vanilla, Amber, Sandalwood

First spritz brings a nice apple and fruit scent, which quickly dissipates into a twirl of, well, The Makeup Examiner isn’t quite sure how to describe what the perfume smells like from mid note to drydown other then to say it’s olfaction overload. Drydown is straight up musk that had TME running for a cotton ball and witch hazel. Rock Revival Rose is a heavy scent that I, personally, didn’t care for.

With that said, we know that perfume is unique to the wearer and TME readers know that I’m going to ask (wrangle) one or more friends to test out products. This time, TME chose Bryne as her tester. Bryne’s experience was slightly different then mine, and although she had stated that drydown also left a heavy scent of the base notes, she enjoyed the fragrance and recommended it for a cooler weather scent.

Bottom line, Rock Revival Rose is a heavy fragrance. It isn’t one that TME would choose for herself, but it isn’t noxious or cheap smelling either. Limited Edition Rock Revival Rose Eau de Parfum is available online at Buckle and Buckle Stores nationwide. Check out more from Buckle on Facebook and Twitter.

Bond No. 9 To Offer Free Full Size Perfume Refills

Who doesn’t love a good secret? Well Bond No. 9 apparently loves to keep secrets like the formulas for their award-winning eau de parfum and perhaps customer secrets … But, the brand has recently disclosed a major secret about a very special refill program.

Quietly in operation since 2007, Bond No. 9 has held a semiannual free refill program. The program is whispered about among the most passionately committed of the brand’s loyal cognoscenti and connoisseurs. So popular is this semiannual event that many Bond No. 9 aficionados use the opportunity to stock up on as-yet untried scents. 7 years is a very long time to keep this delectable transaction a secret.

So for spring 2014 Bond No. 9 has let the cat out of the bag or in this case … let the scent in the bottle. Here’s how it works: From Thursday, May 29 through Wednesday, June 11, you bring your empty scent containers -- regardless of brand -- to any Bond No. 9 counter. By way of thanks, the brand will reward you with a large-size (100ml) bottle of your choice. Just one caveat: You must purchase any two Bond No. 9 items, excluding pocket sprays. The upshot? You’ll be in possession of three new bottles of perfume.

To find a store near you, visit Bond No. 9.

Tru Blooms Fountain of Roses Perfume Review

Tru Blooms Fountain of Roses, launched in September 2013, is the second offering of the Tru Blooms collection from Tru Fragrance and is a rather interesting concept in scent. This unique perfume is the first of its kind to be created from flowers that were planted, grown and harvested in the urban gardens of Chicago. So right from the start, Tru Blooms Fountain of Roses piqued The Makeup Examiner’s interest.

Aesthetically pleasing packaging includes a lovely water colored printed carton with the Tru Blooms Fountain of Roses Eau de Parfum encased in a light pink rose print bottle with a wooden topper wrapped in light pink rose water color paper. Of note, is the inspiration which is derived from the pink hues found in the Chicago rose gardens. Although the inspiration is a node to the Chi-Town citizens, who took this fragrance from seed to scent, the perfume evokes thoughts of walking through any magical rose garden … wherever you may hail from.

Notes ~

• Top Notes: Sparkling Citrus
• Mid Notes: Rose Geranium, Lily of the Valley, Pink Rose Petals
• Base Notes: Blond Woods, Patchouli, Warm Musk

Upon application, immediately evident is sparkling citrus, which quickly gives way to rose geranium, lily of the valley and pink rose petals. At this stage, Tru Blooms Fountain of Roses is a relaxing blend of summery olfaction pleasures. The scent moves into a release of curious blond woods, patchouli and warm musk and drydown leaves your skin scented with a sultry floral, ultra feminine fragrance. Tru Blooms Fountain of Roses is definitively an all-seasons perfume and one to reach for when feminine sensuality is what you wish to evoke!

Regarding the production of Tru Blooms Fountain of Roses, the perfume is part of The Tru Blooms initiative that trained over 150 Chicago residents in the skills required for urban farming. Flowers were planted in 22 gardens, both beautifying the cityscape and cutting taxpayers dollars. Through this project Tru Fragrance created partnerships with over two dozen organizations that were able to further their missions by participating in the creation of this perfume.

Tru Blooms Fountain of Roses ($42 - 1.7oz) is available online at Tru Fragrance and select retail locations. You can learn more about the initiative at Tru Blooms Chicago and checkout more from the brand on Facebook and Twitter.

Boston Proper Rose Gold Room Spray Review

As The Makeup Examiner has previously written, scent sets the ambiance for any experience. What would life be without the scent of pumpkin spice in the fall or florals on a warm summer night? Scents entice and invite us to join in or relax and sooth a tired mind. So, as much as I adore perfumes, I too adore luxurious scent everywhere I wander.

Just as all perfumes are not made alike, we find this will room sprays. Admittedly I more apt to light candles than to reach for a room spray, but there’s something quote lovely about Boston Proper Rose Gold Room Spray ($49-6.0oz), which just launched May 1. To start Rose Gold Room Spray is highly scented, with only a spritz needed to create a scent-filled room and the bottle, with a rose blush liquid trimmed with a frosted Boston Proper label, is chic enough to be displayed. 

At first spritz, citrus and cinnamon are immediately evident and gently open into rose and jasmine with a final scent of soft musk and amber. Despite a top note of cinnamon and base notes of musk and amber, that I usually place in the cooler weather scent category, Boston Proper Rose Gold Room Spray is a room scent for all seasons that would be just as inviting in the winter as it would be during summer. 

Notes~

• Top Notes: Citrus, Cinnamon
• Mid Notes: Nutmeg, Rose, Jasmine
• Base Notes: Musk, Amber

Yes, The Makeup Examiner is hooked!Boston Proper Rose Gold Room Spray is available online at Boston Proper and at all Boston Proper locations. Check out more about Boston Proper on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

Arts & Scents Perfume The Scent of Elements Collection Review

Located in the city of Fürth, Bavaria, Germany, the Arts & Scents Perfumery immediately pulled at The Makeup Examiner’s heartstrings -- as TME’s ancestors hail from Bavaria. But, commonality of location and whimsy over one of my ancestral homelands is certainty not enough to win me over. However, a young brand that masterfully creates a symbiosis between artistic elements and fragrance will always get my heart pumping.

Arts & Scents perfumers offer numerous collections, containing perfumes reflective of each collection, and today we’re going to take a look at The Scent of Elements Collection. Skillfully curated, The Scent of Elements Collection contains six unique perfumes that reflect the natural elements surrounding us. Beyond what one will find inside each scent is an artistically crafted label that intrigues and engages the senses even further.

The Scent of Elements Collection, by perfumer ManuelaPfannes-Völkel, consists of the following six Eau de Parfums ($95 - 60 ml bottle) -- Fantastic Green Bird, Cuero de Mexico, A Day in Grasse, Light of Ormuz, Dream of India, and Green Sea Coral. 

Fantastic Green Bird (launched 2014) is a fantasy-like perfume that aims to tempt those around the wearer. Masterfully marrying fragrances of opposing seasonal scents, Fantastic Green Bird is an all-seasons perfume.

• Top Notes: Tequila, Agave, Aloe, Verbena
• Middle Notes: Hyacinth, Honeysuckle, Jasmine
• Base Notes: Artemisia, Amber, Sandalwood

Cuero de Mexico (launched 2010) is as intoxicating as a hot night in Mexico evoking thoughts of adventure and romance. This unique fragrance combination offers sweet purple jacaranda blossoms that merge effortlessly with myrrh and leather. Cuero de Mexico would be lovely for many occasions and is also an all-seasons perfume.

• Top Notes: Neroli
• Middle Notes: Tuberose, Jacaranda, Orange
• Base Notes: Leather, Myrrh

A Day in Grasse (launched in 2010) with a blend of citrus, rose and red clover this classic Chypre perfume is definitely the perfect warmer weather fragrance. A Day in Grasse is a romantic and whimsical perfume.

• Top Notes: Citruses, Green Leaves
• Middle Notes: Pink roses, Oriental Spices
• Base Notes: Red Clover, Vetiver

Light of Ormuz (launched in 2013) is a very fresh, clean scent and my favorite. Mint is the immediate evident scent, which brings about the feeling of reenergization and gives way to a light cedar fragrance. Light of Ormuz is the perfect scent to clear your mind and keep focused. Although Light of Ormuz leans toward a warmer weather fragrance, I could easily wear this scent year-round.

• Top Notes: Mint Leaves, clear Water Notes, Citruses
• Middle Notes: Spicy and Herbal Notes
• Base Notes: Vetiver, Cedar, Tonka Bean

Dream of India (launched in 2013) encompasses the exotic scents that one would image of India. Spices, exotic flair, scented flowers, colors, spiritual enchantment, joy of living and sensuality are all presented in this perfume. Dream of India is the perfume to reach for when seduction and adventure are on your mind. Dream of India is a good scent for the warmer months, but is very fragrant so a light touch is all that’s needed.

• Top Notes: Rosewater, Orange fruit
• Middle Notes: Green Coriander, Curry tree, Masala Chai
• Base Notes: Champaca, Patchouli, Amber

Green Sea Coral (launched in 2009) is an energizing cocktail for the senses. Aptly named, Green Sea Coral truly embodies the aroma of days (and nights) spent beachside. The unique fragrance note of sea grass and water flowers comes together with energetic grapefruit drops to create an invigorating olfactory experience. Hands-down, Green Sea Coral is the perfect summer fragrance and a must-have for the winter months when one needs a pickup from the frigid elements. 

• Top Notes: Grapefruit, Peppermint
• Middle Notes: Corals, Sea grass, Water flowers
• Base Notes: Water Notes

It is highly unusual for The Makeup Examiner to enjoy such a wide variety of perfumes. I tried to find something to dislike, but each perfume is so masterfully blended that there isn’t one in the collection that I wouldn’t wear. As I mentioned in opening, Arts & Scents perfumes go beyond what’s inside each bottle with packing that is handmade from a Russian artist. The brands name truly states what this perfumer embodies … the beautiful marriage between perfumery and art and the effect that these elements have in our lives. Arts & Scents perfumes can be found online at Arts & Scents.