I went on a trip to London recently and swanned around the perfume halls of Liberty's, Harrods, and Selfridges. I only wish I'd grown extra arms for the occasion! There's a limit to how much you can try.
Re-tried Serge Lutens Ambre Sultan and loved it. The first time I tried it (it was one of the first samples I got when first discovering niche perfumery) I didn't like the herbal aspect much. But I think tastes change as you delve deeper and I appreciated it much more this time.
Also tried Serge Lutens Cedre and quite liked that also.
My absolute favourite line is the Frederic Malle's. I just think those perfumes are gorgeous. There's something really luxurious and old-school about them. They smell complex and as though they've been created with real love and passion. I love all of them, even if I wouldn't necessarily wear them.
Another surprising like for me was Tocca's Florence. I'm really not one for girly florals, but if you're going to do girly floral then this really is breathtakingly pretty. Gorgeous packaging as well.
The Byredo and Le Labo perfumes looked interesting but I don't like the really modern, almost medicinal looking packaging, particularly of the Le Labo's. I still want something that's going to look beautiful on my dresser.
Anyway, my biggest love of the day was the Chanels Les Exclusif Sycomore. Oh. My. God. I have never smelled anything like it. It was swoonsomely gorgeous. Deep and smoky and green and woody and I just LOVED it. What's more, it's totally outside of my usual amber comfort zone, so I was pleased to have found something different. I want I want I want a full bottle immediately!