Tuesday Lust Fragrance: Maison Martin Margiela Untitled L’Eau

Untitled by Maison Martin Margiela

I have been longing for Untitled by Maison Martin Margiela since it was launched in spring last year. The most exciting and wait-worthy part is not only it is the first fragrance in the history of Belgian fashion house, it is also a unique unisex perfume in terms of composition, packaging and commercial campaign.

Untitled was created to be fresh, universal yet avant garde. The fragrance interprets green aromas after rain, and features green accords with floral and woody-musky notes.

I love its apothecary style of clear and white bottle with letters of " (untitled) Maison Martin Margiela" in typewriter font. The bottle is woven with cotton thread around the neck with a thread over the stopper. That's it! Simple and clean!

Untitled L'Eau by Maison Martin Margiela

While I just learned that Untitled has finally hit the store at Saks (exclusively for a year) starting this month, the fashion house has released a lighter and fresher edition called Untitled L'Eau, which emphasizes more on citrusy notes.

I am thrilled to hear the launch of Untitled L'Eau. I hope it won't keep me from waiting too long this time!

Related posts:

Bond No. 9 Success is a Job in New York City Eau de Parfum

Bond No.9 Astor Place Eau de Parfum

Wednesday Lust Fragrance: Chloé Rosebud Eau de Parfum (Limited-edition)

Chloé Rosebud Eau de Parfum (Limited-edition)
[Photo credit: www.sephora.com]

I know many of you, like me, are loyal fans of Chloé's classic signature Chloé Eau de Parfum. I was over the moon when I found out the fashion house recently released a limited-edition of Chloé Eau de Parfum called Rosebud for the spring season.

Rosebud features the original bottle packaging with a bright pink ribbon. According to the customer reviews on Sephora website, it is fresher and more lightly floral compared to the original version.

Notes of Chloé Rosebud include pink peony, freesia, lychee, magnolia flower, lily of the valley, rose, cedar wood, amber and honey.

I just can't wait to try out this fragrance. Let me know how you feel about Rosebud if you got a chance to try it!

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KenzoAmour Eau de Toilette Florale

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Natalie Portman's Miss Dior Chérie Fragrance Commercial

I have always been a big fan of Natalie Portman. I'm blown away by her outstanding and captivating performance in psychological thriller "Black Swan." She is also in the recently released 30-second Miss Dior Chérie commercial, which was directed by Sofia Coppola. Natalie Portman looks fresh, classy and adorable in this commercial.

Tom Ford Limited-edition Black Orchid Collection

Tom Ford Limited-edition Black Orchid Collection

[Photo credit: British Beauty Blogger]

Ever since I tried Tom Ford Private Blend Lip Color in Pink Dusk, I have been obsessed with this lipstick line for its premium quality and beautiful packaging. I have refrained myself from buying more Tom ford lipsticks because of its hefty price tag, but I can't help hoping to see more beauty lines by Tom Ford! I am glad that he doesn't keep us waiting too long.

According to The Beauty Alchemist, Tom Ford will release limited-edition Black Orchid Collection (USD$140) in Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman stores in October. This collection includes Private Blend Lip Color in Black Orchid, Pressed Eau de Perfume Black Orchid and Nail Color in Black Orchid.

You may check out the close-up and swatch of Tom Ford Nail Color in Black Orchid on famed nail artist Sophy Robson's blog. It is a gorgeous vampy brownish red shade I like to wear in fall and winter!

Also, the black cuboid case of Black Orchid lipstick is sleek and classy! I can't wait to see this collection in person.

Related posts:

Tom Ford Private Blend Lip Color in Pink Dusk

Tom Ford Private Blend Lip Color Collection

Provocative Ad: Tom Ford For Men

Marc Jacobs New "Bang" Fragrance for Men

Marc Jacobs New "Bang" Fragrance for Men
[Photo credit: www.stylelist.com]

Marc Jacobs's new fragrance for men, Bang, will be released in September 2010. This time, fashion designer Marc Jacobs personally poses naked in the ad campaign for Bang. This is the first time that he poses nude in his own advertising.

We have seen similar racy fragrance ads like Yves Saint Laurent M7 (2002), Tom Ford for Men (2007) and Calvin Klein Secret Obsession (2008). Nudity has become a very popular theme in fragrance advertisings. Fragrance brands flock to idea of how nudity can convey the message that scents are personal and romantic just like Marilyn Monroe once quoted "What do I wear in bed? Why, Chanel No. 5, of course."

While the ad campaign for Bang can be perceived as sexy, fun, smart or provocative from artistic and marketing perspectives, I personally think it lacks creativity and originality. Am I the only one that has higher expectations for Marc Jacobs?

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Jill Stuart Night Jewel Solid Perfume

Jill Stuart Night Jewel Solid Perfume
[Photo credit: beauty.yahoo.co.jp/]

Jill Stuart will release limited-edition Night Jewel Solid Perfume on July 2nd in Japan. Night Solid Jewel features the floral scent of Night Jewel Eau de Toilette that was launched in winter 2009. It is housed in a floral-shaped compact with a pink Swarovski crystal in the center of the top lid. The compact case also comes with a chain.

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Flora by Gucci Eau de Parfum

Flora by Gucci Eau de Parfum

Gucci is pleased to announce the launch of Flora by Gucci Eau de Parfum. The new Eau de Parfum, which follows the debut of the Flora by Gucci Eau de Toilette, is the latest product developed for the growing Flora fragrance world. The light, feminine touch of Flora resonated immediately with consumers around the world when it launched in April 2009. This new EDP possesses the same youthful and optimistic spirit but in a deeper, more concentrated scent. The result is a sophisticated, warmer version of Flora that makes it ideal as an evening fragrance.

‘I was just as involved in the creative development of this new Eau de Parfum as I was in the original Flora fragrance,’ says Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini. ‘I used the freshness of Flora as the foundation but wanted to bring a new sensuality to this scent. The Eau de Parfum feels a bit more grown up. I think it will still appeal to our Flora customer but now she has the choice of whether she wants to keep her scent light and easy or a bit more rich and dramatic for evening. It is for a different moment in the same woman’s life.’

Giannini relied upon the same base of Rose and Osmanthus flower balanced by Sandalwood and Patchouli for the scent’s structure; however the notes are now stronger and more sultry in the Eau de Parfum version. Top notes of fresh citrus and peony finish off the bouquet. Not only is the effect more intense and luxurious, but the scent also lasts longer on the skin.

For the EDP, Giannini has created a new white on black Flora pattern for the package interior, which gives a twist to the original and creates a new, richer look. The bottle’s cap has been crafted from gold metal and the label in gold paper give it a precious and luxurious feel.

The new Eau de Parfum will be complemented by a special collection of luxury gifts that will launch in exclusive doors. The new products include a white scented candle decorated with the black Flora pattern, a luxury purse spray as well as a solid fragrance that is packaged in a sophisticated gold metal compact.

This new product line will be available globally starting January 2010. It will be supported in traditional retail outlets as well as sold online at the new Flora micro website, www.florabygucci.com. The microsite is dedicated to the entire world of Flora and allows for an interactive exchange of ideas and imagery for Flora fans globally.

The inspiration for the Flora fragrance originates from an iconic design from the Gucci archives that was rediscovered by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini and has been the catalyst for several of Gucci’s most popular products. From its original incarnation as a silk scarf specifically designed for Princess Grace in 1966, to the sought-after accessories and ready to wear designed by Giannini in the 21st century, Flora has proven to posses a timeless allure. The Flora world today includes sunglasses as well as the expanding fragrance collection.

The range:

Eau de Parfum 1.0 fl.oz $60.00
Eau de Parfum 1.6 fl.oz $80.00
Eau de Parfum 2.5 fl.oz $100.00

Flora by Gucci Eau de Parfum is available February 2010 at Bloomingdale’s and Saks Fifth Avenue stores nationwide.

Source: Gucci

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Bond No.9 Astor Place Eau de Parfum

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Product Review: Bond No. 9 Success is a Job in New York City Eau de Parfum

Bond No. 9 Success is a Job in New York City Eau de Parfum

In October, New York-based perfume house Bond No. 9 launched "Success is a Job in New York." Following Silver Factory, Union Square and Lexington Avenue, Success is a Job in New York City is the latest addition to the Andy Warhol series.

It is named after the title of an article illustrated by Andy Warhol as his first assignment for Glamour magazine in the 50s. The bottle features the iconic silkscreened dollar signs designed by Andy Warhol in 1981.

Notes of Success is a Job in New York City Eau de Parfum:

Top notes: Bergamot, Cardamom Seed, Mandarin, Coriander, Nugmet
Middle notes: Pimento, Tuberose, Rose de Mai, Jasmine, Forbidden Plum, Iris
Base notes: Patchouli, Amber, Vanilla

The opening is citrusy and spicy. It settles down quickly to reveal a refreshing, yet relatively rich opening as the notes of bergamot, nutmeg and cardamon seed lend a soft sweetness and warmness to the beginning of this fragrance.

The top notes lead to a white floral accord with a faint hint of greenness. The notes of tuberose, jasmine and iris are more prominent in the heart, which is oriental, intense and powdery, but not overly sweet.

The scents mellow down to a warm, rich and velvety smooth finish, resting on an oriental base of vanilla and amber. The lasting power is good. It lasts eight to ten hours on my skin.




Summary

Success is a Job in New York City eau de parfum is a gourmand and oriental floral fragrance for cold weather of fall and winter. The intense, rich scents of Success is a Job in New York are an acquired taste. The fragrance weaving through a sensual blend of rich, savory scents and powdery, floral notes has a compelling and opulent character. I love the complexity and longevity of this fragrance.

*The sample is provided by Bond No.9. However, this review is solely based on my personal opinions after using this product.*

Related posts:
Bond No.9 Astor Place Eau de Parfum

Product Review: KenzoAmour Eau de Toilette Florale

KenzoAmour Eau de Toilette Florale

[Photo credit: www.kenzousa.com]

Launched in July 2009, KenzoAmour Eau de Toilette Florale is a new version of KenzoAmour Eau de Parfum (2006). Compared to the sensual, floral accents of the original KenzoAmour, KenzoAmour Eau de Toilette Florale adapts to younger and fresher aromas of white flowers.

The first spritz is citrusy and spicy. The citursy, floral scent of neroli is prominent, and the spicy note fades quickly. The scents settle into invigorating, fresh, yet harmonious citrusy top notes.

A delicate blend of white floral notes rests on the heart that is softly floral and faintly powdery, but not cloyingly sweet or overpowering.

It dries down to musky and woody base notes. The finish is velvety smooth, melony musky, yet tender and clean. The drydown lasts all day.

Notes of KenzoAmour EDT Florale:

Top notes: essence of neroli, grapefruit-blackcurrant, essence of cardamom
Middle notes: frangipani blossom, rosebud, gardenia
Base notes: white musk, cedar wood

The fragrance bottle designed by famed industrial designer Karim Rashid is inspired by the sensuality of the female body and the sense of travelling. The bottle is slightly curvy and clear transparent, while the middle of the bottle is in gradational frosted white.

Ad Campaign of KenzoAmour Eau de Toilette Florale
[Photo credit:www.sephora.com]

Summary

I received some compliments wearing KenzoAmour Eau de Toilette Florale for its fresh floral aromas. I think KenzoAmour Eau de Toilette Florale is a beautiful, romantic and easy-to-wear fragrance. It achieves a good balance between the citrus floweriness and woody muskiness. It is lightly floral, clean with a gentle musky finish. It has become one of my favorite fragrances that I will see myself wearing for all seasons.

*This sample is provided by Kenzo. However, this review is solely based on my personal opinions after using this product.*

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FlowerbyKenzo Eau de Parfum Nomad Spray from Kenzo 2008 Ryoko Collection

Flower By Kenzo Summer 2008 Fragrance

Product Review: Bond No.9 Astor Place Eau de Parfum

Bond No.9 Astor Place Eau de Parfum

The latest fragrance by Bond No. 9 for spring 2009 pays homage to Astor Place, New York. Like other fragrances in the Bond No. 9 series created to represent the city life and cultures of New York City neighborhoods, Bond No. 9 Astor Place is inspired by the vitality of the art cultures in Astor Place.

The bottle design echoes Tony Rosenthal's sculpture Alamo (also known as "The Cube") at Astor Place, and features colorful triangles in golden background.

• Top notes: violet leaf, mandarin zest
• Middle notes: freesia, red poppy buds, orris(iris root)
• Base notes: teakwood, musk, amber

Bond No. 9's scent is very spring-like, clean and ethereal. The citrus top notes with a fresh grassy nuance are crisp and bright, but not too intensive or sharp.

The fresh green and citrus notes turns to sweet floral notes. The green/citrus notes and the floral notes are well-balanced. The floral scents feel weightless with a touch of soft sweetness and light greenness.

Over time, it dries down to sensuous woody and musky notes, which impart a sense of warmth and mellowness without being overly heavy or dense. Moreover, it has a good lasting power.

Summary

I am in love with Bond No. 9 Astor Place. It is a beautiful fresh floral fragrance that I would wear in the warm weather of spring and summertime. The scents feature a well-rounded combination of green/citrus, floral and woody/musky notes. If you love soft floral scents with touches of green notes, Bond No. 9 Astor Place Eau de Parfum is worth trying out.

Bond No.9 Special Event
From May 31st through Saturday, June 6th, you would receive a refill with a purchase of any two Bond No. 9 items at any of the four Bond No. 9 New York City boutiques (9 Bond Street, 680 Madison Avenue, 897 Madison Avenue and 399 Bleecker Street) or any Saks Fifth Avenue store.

[Photo credit: www.bondno9.com]

*The sample is provided by Bond No.9. However, this review is solely based on my personal opinions after using this product.*

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Flower By Kenzo Summer 2008 Fragrance

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Bond No. 9 for Mother's Day

Bond No. 9 limited-edition Swarovski Stars for Mother's Day
[Photo credit: Bond No.9]

Bond No. 9, the NYC-based luxury perfumer, has partnered with Swarovski again to create three new Swarovski-encrusted bottles available in Nuits de Noho, The Scent of Peace and Chelsea Flowers.

The three fragrances will be housed in 50ml bottles. Nuits de Noho comes in vivid sapphire Swarovski chrystals. The Scent of Peace comes in rich amethyst Swarovski chrystals and Chelsea Flowers comes in golden topaz Swarovski chrystals.

Fragrance notes:

• Nuits de Noho: jasmine, creamy vanilla, sheer patchouli
• The Scent of Peace: grapefruit, black currant, lily of the valley, musk
• Chelsea Flowers: white peony, white hyacinth, musk

Bond No. 9 limited-edition Swarovski Stars will be available in May, just in time for Mother’s Day.

Product Review: Elizabeth Arden Pretty Eau de Parfum Spray

Promo Image of Elizabeth Arden Pretty Eau de Parfum Spray

Spring is about here. The weather is gradually warming up, and the air is getting pleasantly cool. I am getting in the mood to wear light and pastel colors with a spritz of lightly floral scents. Spring is probably the only time in the year that I like to wear soft, floral fragrances. In case you are curious, I like fresh green scents for summer, while in fall and winter, I prefer to wear fragrances with more woody notes.

Launched in February, 2009, Pretty Eau de Parfum Spray is Elizabeth Arden's latest fragrance created by perfumer Claude Dir of Givaudan. Elizabeth Arden partnered with Claude Dir to create a fragrance associated with the characters of "pretty", "fun", "flirty", "feminine" and "timeless".

Elizabeth Arden Pretty Eau de Parfum Spray

• Top Notes: Italian Mandarin ORPUR, Orange Blossom, Peach Nectar
• Middle Notes: Petalia, Star Jasmine, Pink Iris, White Peony
• Base Notes: Fluffy Musk, Jacaranda Wood, Creamy Amber

This fragrance starts with notes of mandarin and orange blossom. The initial burst is citrusy, refreshing and energetic. It is quickly softened by a subtle hint of peach to a more uplifting appeal, with a touch of sweetness.

The opening notes blend seamlessly into gently sweet and floral notes. Petalia, an exclusive fragrance molucule developed by Givaudan, is the core in the blend of floral middle notes.

The heart notes dry down to a woody finish with hints of musky and powdery notes. The base notes are warm, sensual, and velvety smooth, which I don't find it overwhelmingly powerful or overly masculine.

Summary
Elizaebth Arden Pretty is a well-rounded fragrance. It is floral and refreshing, sweet but not cloying. It gives a light, airy feel on the skin and through the air. It is a great everyday floral fragrance that I would wear in the springtime.

I Feel Pretty Sweepstakes
From February 19th, 2009 through April 19th, 2009, Elizabeth Arden is hosting the "I Feel Pretty sweepstakes" in collaboration with Style.com. Visitors to the site can get the opportunity to win a Spa Vacation for 2 plus the entire Pretty Elizabeth Arden collection!

Prize includes:

• Airfare
• Accommodations for 5 nights
• Massage treatment
• $100 credit toward additional spa services
• The entire Pretty Elizabeth Arden collection, a value of over $150

*The sample is provided by Elizabeth Arden. However, this review is solely based on my personal opinions after using this product.*

[Photo credit: Elizabeth Arden]

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Fragrance: Calvin Klein Secret Obsession

Calvin Klein's Latest Launch, Secret Obsession

You probably have heard a thing or two about the latest launch of Calvin Klein Fragrances, Secret Obsession. Secret Obsession has been launched around the world this month. In the US, the perfume commercial featured the face of Secret Obsession fragrance, Eva Mendes, naked in a bedsheet was banned from virtually all media networks.

Ad Commercial of Secret Obsession

If you happened to walk past Times Square in the weekend, you probably have seen Calvin Klein's latest billboard. To kick off NYC fashion week, Calvin Klein has unveiled a sultry Secret Obsession billboard featured by Eva Mendes at Times Square, New York City since last Thursday. The Secret Obsession ads will be featured on billboards in major cities across the US.

Secret Obsession Billboard@ Times Square

I will share my thoughts on the scents of Secret Obsession next time. Meanwhile, you can submit questions to Eva Mendes about her new Secret Obsession campaign by posting your comment on the Secret Obsession Facebook Wall. You have until until Wednesday (09/10/2008). Eva will select 5 questions and you will find her answers on BellaSugar.

Ad Campaign Featured by Eva Mendes

Product Review: Kenzo 2008 Ryoko Collection: FlowerbyKenzo Eau de Parfum Nomad Spray

Kenzo Parfums launched the 2008 Ryoko Collection in July 2008. This collection is a limited-edition collaboration between Kenzo perfumes and famed industrial designer Karim Rashid, and will only be available through fall. As all the fragrances in this collection are Kenzo's favorite scents, this collection's highlight is Karim Rashid's packaging design. It is always fun to watch how Karim Rashid plays with his magic wand.

The 2008 Ryoko Collection by Kenzo

In Japanese, Ryoko means "travel". Inspired by modern travel, this collection consists of five airport-friendly, pocket-sized fragrance pebbles. Each Ryoko pebble represents one of Kenzo's signature fragrances (20ml ; 0.66 oz), which includes:

For her:

• FlowerbyKenzo eau de parfum nomad spray
• KenzoAmour eau de parfum nomad spray
• Leau Par Kenzo eau de parfum nomad spray

For him:

• L'Eau Par Kenzo Pour Homme nomad spray
• Tokyo By Kenzo nomad spray

I had the opportunity to try the FlowerbyKenzo eau de parfum nomad spray.

FlowerbyKenzo Eau de Parfum Nomad Spray

Packaging

I am a big fan of Karim Rashid's functional and holistic design for many big name brands. From a simple watch to a cool modern looking hand-held vacuum, his creative design always challenges consumers to perceive modern product design from different perspectives. This collaboration with Kenzo is not an exception.

On the Right: FlowerbyKenzo Eau de Parfum Nomad Spray

The FlowerbyKenzo eau de parfum nomad spray is cased in a see-through square box embossed with Kenzo's iconic red poppy flower on the lid. The nomad spray is housed in a red pebble that fits right into the palm of my hand. It is so sleek and smooth that it looks like a polished pebble, cute bean, or a stylish mouse. If you rest your palm on its curvy side (like holding a PC mouse), you may find the dispenser hidden on the top right side.

On the Left: FlowerbyKenzo Eau de Parfum Nomad Spray

I love its minimalism and yet functional packaging design. First, the pebble alike packaging contains fragrance less than 3 oz., which met the TSA's 3-1-1 rules (if you are not familiar with the US airport security rules, check it here). Second, there is no extra assembly of cap or dispenser body for the Ryoko nomad sprays. There is no fuzz of opening and closing of dispenser bottles! This cute little pebble is certainly airport-friendly and convenient for traveling.

FlowerbyKenzo Eau de Parfum Nomad Spray

Fragrance

FlowerbyKenzo eau de parfum, created by master perfumer Alberto Morillas, is the original version in the FlowerbyKenzo series. It was first introduced in 2000, and has been well-known for its sweet powdery character.

FlowerbyKenzo Eau de Parfum Nomad Spray

FlowerbyKenzo (2000) features notes of wild hawthorne, Bulgarian rose, parma violet, cassia, opopanax, white musk, vanilla, hedione, and cyclosal.

The top notes (Bulgarian Rose, Wild Hawthorn, Cassie, Palma Violets) are very flowery and powdery. As it settles in after 5 minutes or so, the scent becomes more gently sweet. While the velvety and musky heart notes (opopanax, white musk and vanilla) exude the feeling of warmth and creaminess, the scents are also mixed with the green, fresh tonality of hedione and cyclosal. The hints of musky and fresh notes balance the powdery sweet accent, and give it a classic yet modern, sensual yet clean feel. The perfume has good longevity. It stays all day.

FlowerbyKenzo Eau de Parfum Nomad Spray

Compared to FlowerbyKenzo Summer 2008 I reviewed earlier, it is even more flowery and powdery. The other FlowerbyKenzo versions feature more of woody or spicy drydowns. If you are not a person of sweet floral scent, FlowerbyKenzo eau de parfum might be a bit too powdery sweet for your taste.

I think FlowerbyKenzo eau de parfum is truly a feminine and delicate fragrance. It has a fresh sensuality that makes this floral fragrance balanced between warm creaminess and lightness, sweetness and freshness. I found it can be overpowering if too much were applied. However, with the right amount, it smells gentle and womanly sophisticated.


*This sample is provided by Kenzo. However, this review is solely based on my personal opinions after using this product.*

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Product Review: Flower By Kenzo Summer Fragrance 2008

Product Review: Flower By Kenzo Summer Fragrance 2008

Kenzo has launched its perennial limited edition, Flower By Kenzo Summer Fragrance, for summer 2008. In fact, it is a new version of the brand's classic Flower By Kenzo fragrance. The original Flower By Kenzo was introduced in 2000. Since then, the Flower By Kenzo collection has increased to different variations, including the famous Flower By Kenzo Le Parfum (2003) and Flower By Kenzo Oriental Eau de Parfum (2005). Like the other fragrances in this Flower By Kenzo line, Flower By Kenzo Summer 2008 was created by master perfumer Alberto Morillas.

Flower By Kenzo Summer 2008 Fragrance

The bottle of Flower By Kenzo (2000) was originally designed by French sculptor Serge Mansau. The bottle is leaning and slender with the image of poppy flower. Since then, different variations of Flower By Kenzo feature different pictures of poppy flowers on the bottles to reflect their own natures of scents. For the summer 2008 limited edition, it comes in a frosted glass bottle with the image of red poppy flower. The bottle has its own unique beauty, and the design is hard to forget.

Flower By Kenzo Eau de Parfum Summer Fragrance 2008 features top notes of litchi (also known as lychee), ginger and mandarin; middle notes of freesia and parma violet; base notes of incense and white musk.

This fragrance starts with sweet powdery and spicy notes. The nuances of ginger and mandarin orange deliver a nice sense of freshness, but the floral notes are too sweet and too powdery for my taste at first. As the fragrance settles in 5 to 10 minutes after application, the sweet notes start to succumb to the woody tones, and recede into a soft floral finish. The woody-musky base notes of incense and white musk provide a delicate sensation to the skin, and lead to a harmonious composition.

Flower By Kenzo Summer 2008 features the splashes of fresh spicy nuances and soft floral accords accentuated by woody and musky base notes. I do find the powdery notes featured in the floral scents don't really appeal to me. Overall, Flower By Kenzo Summer 2008 is a well-rounded and unique fragrance for me. The scents are reminiscent of feminine, elegant yet modern and independent characteristics. The woody, musky and floral scents of this fragrance are more of a fragrance I would wear in the cool and crisp weather like fall or spring. For people who like floral fragrances with woody or musky base notes, this fragrance is worth a try!


*This sample is provided by Kenzo. However, this review is solely based on my personal opinions after using this product.*

Related posts:

Les Exclusifs Perfume Collection from Chanel
(a collection of 11 precious fragrances made by rare ingredients)

Kelly Calèche by Hermès
(leathery floral fragrance)

Kenzo 2008 Ryoko Collection: FlowerbyKenzo Eau de Parfum Nomad Spray

Les Exclusifs Perfume Collection

Les Exclusifs perfume collection [Photo credit: New York Times]

Last year, Chanel released Les Exclusifs collection comprised of ten perfumes. Each perfume characterizes the life and stories of French fashion designer "Coco" Chanel (1883-1971). Four of the ten fragrances were created by Coco Chanel and perfumer Ernest Beaux in the 1920s. Chanel perfumer Jacques Polge restored those four existing fragrances, and created six new perfumes. In 2008, Mr. Polge has added the 11th fragrance, Sycomore, in Les Exclusifs line for Chanel.

Sycomore, the latest fragrance in Les Exclusifs collection
[Photo credit:www.vogue.com.tw]

Inspired by her heritage from the places she lived to the objects she loved, all the eleven masterpieces in Les Exclusifs collection are the epitome of Coco Chanel's flamboyant life, memories, and world. Jacques Polge wondered how these objects represented in her perfumes, and wanted to make the precious scents alive by using rare ingredients.

It is worth noting that Chanel has decided not to execute any marketing or advertisement campaigns for Les Exclusifs collection. The collection is only available in Chanel boutiques and at Bergdorf Goodman. The collection comprises of:

No. 22 (Originally created by Chanel perfumer predecessor Ernest Beaux in 1922) Top notes of aldehydes, white roses, jasmine, tuberose, lily of the valley, lilac, and orange flower. Middle notes of orchid and ylang-ylang. Base notes of vanilla, incense, and vetiver. No.22 is floral,feminine, and sensual.

Cuir de Russie (Originally created by Ernest Beaux in 1924)
Top notes of orange blossom, bergamot, mandarin, and clary sage. Middle notes of iris, jasmine, rose, ylang-ylang, cedarwood, and vetiver. Base notes of styrax, leather, amber, and vanilla. Cuir de Russie is a woody, floral, and leathery fragrance.

Gardénia (Originally created by Ernest Beaux in 1925)
Top notes of absolutes of jasmine, gardenia, orange blossom, and tuberose. Heart notes of clove, sage, and pimiento. Base notes of musk, patchouli, sandalwood, and vetiver. Gardénia features floral and fresh green notes.

Bois des Îles (Originally created by Ernest Beaux in 1926)
Top notes of aldehydes, bergamot, coriander, and petitgrain. Heart notes of jasmine, rose, ylang-ylang, orris, and almond. Base notes of vetiver, sandalwood, opoponax, musk, tonka bean, and vanilla. Bois des Îles is woody, exotic, and masculine.

31, Rue Cambon (named after the address of Chanel's couture atelier)
31, Rue Cambon features notes of iris, rose, jasmine, and sandalwood, bergamot, black pepper, patchouli, cistus labdanum and iris. It has a soft floral chypre nature with hints of rose and jasmine.

No 18 (named after Coco Chanel's address number of flagship jewelry boutique)
The composition of No 18 is based on ambrette seed. It features floral notes of rose and hibiscus, and ambrette seeds. The fragrance has musky and ambery nuances.

Bel Respiro (named after Coco Chanel's retreat in Garches)
Bel Respiro features a blend of crushed leaves, rosemary, thyme, rose, lilac, myrrh, leather, hyacinth, green tea, and grass. It is a delicate, clean, fresh green fragrance.

Coromandel (named after Coco Chanel's Chinese antique lacquered screens)
Coromandel features notes of pine, jasmine, patchouli, amber and frankincense. It is ambery, woody, and oriental.

Eau de Cologne features notes of citrus, peppered rose, lemon, musk, bergamot, neroli, vetiver and vanilla. It is clean, vibrant, and crisp.

28 La Pausa (named after Coco Chanel's resort residence on the French Riviera) 28 La Pausa is a powdery iris scent that captures the essence from iris pallida.

Sycomore
Top notes of bergamot, neroli. Heart notes of ylang-ylang, rose, jasmine, honeysuckle. Bottom notes of cedar, violet, tobacco, sandalwood, and musk. Sycomore has a woody violet note.

The packaging has retained Chanel's classic style without any elaborate details. Unlike most of the fragrances on the market now, Les Exclusifs collection is full of character, nuances and refinement.

Source:New York Times

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Product Review: Roxy Fragrance and Delicate Shower Gel

Roxy is a women’s sportswear brand from California since 1990. Its clothings are designed especially for outdoor fun while keeping a fit, flexible and feminine style. Today, the brand has expanded to offer every aspect from sportswear, everyday outfit, tide watch, handbag and Roxy fragrance. I am not an outdoor person in any way. But when I was asked to test out a package of Roxy fragrance, I sure would love to take this opportunity to sample the scent of Roxy spirit - "daring, confident, naturally beautiful, fun and alive."

The sample package includes a Roxy Eau de Toilette (100ml for $58) and a Delicate Shower Gel (150ml for $20.) Roxy fragrance is created by the perfumer at Givaudan (the world's leading company in the industry of flavors and fragrances), Antoine Maisondieu. The fragrance is inspired by the spirit and lifestyle of Roxy. Following is Antoine's brief olfactory translation:

"In order to give the scent a unique signature, to create a dynamic olfactory rhythm and sublime all the facets of the Roxy attitude, I first of all punctuated it with a zest of citrus fruits and velvety berries to illustrate its energetic, playful character. Then, I added Magnolia, Lily of the Valley and Violet: joyful flowers with luminous essences. Lastly, I chose Musk and a magnificent "organic" Ylang which - when married with the tropical richness of the Frangipani flower - illuminate the ensemble in a Salted Amber harmony." [Source: roxy.com]

To me, the fragrance of Roxy is quite feminine, joyful, and fresh. As the first and second spritzes burst into air around me, I can sense citrus and red berries immediately. My first impression of it (or first impression of the "top notes" ) is fruity and overly sweet. But it disappears quickly within minutes. Within half hour or so, the middle notes starts to emerge. I enjoy Roxy's middle notes very much. The combination of lily of the valley, violet, magnolia, organic ylang-ylang is subtle and feminine. I especially like the clean floral scent of Lily of the Valley quietly along in the ride. Musk and amber in the base notes harmonize the floral middle notes and hold the fragrance together.

Overall, I enjoy Roxy fragrance a lot. It is a delicately floral fragrance, but not overpowering. It is suitable for everyday use at daytime or preferably in the spring and summer time. The Delicate Shower Gel is also delightful. It contains pearl extract, and is easy to lather up. It leaves my skin a light fruity scent, and enhances the application of the Roxy fragrance.

Roxy fragrance features:

• Top notes: Citrus, red berries
• Middle notes: Lily of the valley, violet, magnolia, organic ylang-ylang
• Base notes: Musk, frangipani blossom, amber

*The samples are provided by Roxy. However, this review is solely based on my personal opinions after using this product.*

Holiday Gift Idea 2007: for Beauty Lovers

Christmas is coming in just two weeks. Many of you might be trying to find the best deal and best gift for the loved one or just to pamper yourself for a working hard this year. Here are few gift idea, particularly for beauty lovers.

1. Estée Lauder Evening Elegance Powder Compact

The Evening Elegance Powder Com is inspired by Art Deco designs of the 1930s. I like its simplicity, yet stunningly elegant. The compact is patterned with golden wave lines. The closure is adorned with Baguette crystals. It is a refined limited edition collectible gift.

2. Shu Uemura Simple Drama Set

The Simple Drama Set includes a mini makeup palette and a compact brush set. The Compact Mini Palette has: Pressed Eye shadow Matte Powder Blue, Pressed Eyeshadow Iridescent Starry Midnight Black, and Glow On Blush in Pearlized Peach. The Holiday Compact Brush Set has: Blush Brush, Eye Shadow Brush, Lip/Eye Liner Brush, Concealer/ Foundation Brush. This is a Limited-edition set.

3. Laura Mercier Diamond Duster

Laura Mercier Diamond Duster is made of Marabou feathers. It is kind of an old-fashioned way to dust powder on face and body. To apply with shimmery cbody powder, it could creates a subtle glow. Isn't it like a magic duster that works beauty wonders in the holiday season?

4. Jill Stuart Mix Blush Compact

The packaging of Jill Stuart Mix Blush Compact is absolutely adorable and princessy. The quad pressed powder comes with a retractable brush to create a glowing cheek shade. The powder is refined and a little shimmery. The Mix Blush Compact comes with four different shades in four sets of colors (01:baby blush, 02:rose bloom, 03:coral glow and 04:hot cherry). It has a hint of floral fragrance in a very light way.

5. L'Occitane Ultimate Shea Butter Gift Box

This Ultimate Shea Butter Gift Box includes: Shea Butter Extra Gentle Soap - Milk, Shea Butter Ultra Rich Body Cream, Shea Butter Hand Cream. Made from the fruit of the African shea tree, both the hand cream and the body cream are enriched with 20 % shea butter. The texture is rich and creamy. Other than all the goodness that nourishes my hands quickly, one thing I cannot live without is the pleasant fragrance of L'Occitane Shea Butter line. The smell is soft and clean. This is one of my all-time favorite hand creams. I like to pamper my hands with the lovely hand cream before hitting the sack.

6. Dior J'adore Pouch Set

The Dior J'adore Pouch Set includes Eau de Parfum Spray 1.7 oz, Perfumed Body Lotion 1.7 oz, Perfumed Bath and Shower Gel 1.7 oz and a couture design pouch. Notes: Mandarin, Champaca Flowers, Ivy, African Orchid, Rose, Violet, Damascus Plum, Amaranth Wood, Blackberry Musk. The fragrance is definitely feminine, floral and sensual, but not overwhelmingly sweet. ( The information of The J'adore notes is sourced: Sephora website.)

Related post: Holiday Gift Idea 2007: Lip Gloss Set