fragrance, Personal

Women in Perfumery & A Story of My First Indie/Niche Perfumes

Recently Allure published an article in their July 2017 Diversity/”American Beauty” Issue, “The American Perfumers Modern Approach to Fragrance” by Liana Schaffner that briefly covers the rebellious spirit of American niche perfumery. I’m always delighted to see my interest introduced to a broader audience; however, there was something so curious about this article. Out of all the brands and perfumers interviewed¹, none were female. There was a total erasure of women in perfumery. Which is so unfortunate because I feel like there would have been no niche or indie perfumery in the US if it weren’t for women!… Continue reading | 19 Comments

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Annick Goutal Nuit Etoilee EDP Perfume Review

Annick Goutal Nuit Etoilee

From the name to the copy,  Annick Goutal Nuit Étoilée brings to mind van Gogh’s “The Starry Night”. I’m always surprised when brands commit to such boldness. This is an iconic painting easily recognized that often pops up in our popular culture. It’s been discussed in every Art History 101 class. People have spent years researching and interpreting it. When one chooses such an inspiration, it comes with a lot of expectations. And in the world of perfume, expectations do you no favors.

Nuit Étoilée opens with cool mint leaves and this unusual gummy, rubber… Continue reading | 9 Comments

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Annick Goutal Vetiver EDT Cologne Review

Annick Goutal Vetiver

It may surprise some people because not many perfume lovers declare this, but I love aquatics. Now before you start judging me, give me a chance. I don’t love melon/cucumbers that verge into household cleaner territory. I love salty, mineral scents that remind me of the sea. Unfortunately, the 90’s ruined this “ocean” genre of perfume for most people. But, I promise, there are some really great ocean inspired perfumes out there and Annick Goutal Vetiver is one of them.

Vetiver is well, vetiver with brine… Continue reading | 7 Comments

fragrance

Annick Goutal Grand Amour EDP Perfume Review

Annick Goutal Grand Amour EDP review

Spring is in the air…and it if isn’t in your neck of the woods, spray some Annick Goutal Grand Amour.

Grand Amour opens with huge amounts of pollen from lilies mixed with delicate forest lilies like lily of the valley. All the flowers grow larger and “grander”, reminding me a bit of Guerlain Chamade. Spring hyacinths enter the mix The dry-down of Grand Amour hangs on to the green rose and mixes it with sweet, powdery resins.