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Scent of the day with the friendly perfumistas spritzing again - thread 5

985 replies

IDontHateRainbows · 08/10/2025 17:07

Link to previous thread

https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/style_and_beauty/5346931-scent-of-the-day-part-four-the-friendly-perfumistas-still-perfuming?

OP posts:
Thread gallery
33
ElizabethG81 · 11/10/2025 21:51

JoRaRaRa · 11/10/2025 16:01

If any of you like Ysl fragrances, they have 3 codes which stack, I'm not sure how well they do on makeup:
YSLGIFT
YSLGOLD
YSL15
I just bought the 30ml Black Opium Glitter, I'm not even sure I like it 🤣 It's meant to be £72, I paid £35.40.

I’m finding myself tempted by this as I was supposed to get (and was looking forward to) a sample of YSL Black Opium Glitter with a LF order today but it was missing 😔. So somehow I’m now tempted by a full bottle of something I’ve never tried 😂

I like gourmand scents, vanilla (the more sweet, bakery type that a lot of people seem to hate). Would the experts here think Glitter would be a good option or are any of the other YSL perfumes potentially a better bet?

IDontHateRainbows · 12/10/2025 02:00

ElizabethG81 · 11/10/2025 21:51

I’m finding myself tempted by this as I was supposed to get (and was looking forward to) a sample of YSL Black Opium Glitter with a LF order today but it was missing 😔. So somehow I’m now tempted by a full bottle of something I’ve never tried 😂

I like gourmand scents, vanilla (the more sweet, bakery type that a lot of people seem to hate). Would the experts here think Glitter would be a good option or are any of the other YSL perfumes potentially a better bet?

Id check out reviews on a site such as fragrantica or Basenotes before 'blind buying". Or most big boots, john lewis etc would have a bottle to try before committing?

OP posts:
MiaN · 12/10/2025 07:30

Angel's Share was yesterday's scent. It reminds me of so many pumpkin spice candles, I still enjoy it but not love for me.

Crystal Noir Parfum Versace from the advent is little bit of surprise for me. I don't get on with oud at all but I like this one. The 5ml is plenty for life, but I can see myself wearing this on date night. I am just skin testing it, not sure what will I wear later

That's the beauty of advent calendars, you can skin test perfumes on your own time and test things you would not normally be tempted to. Its not a love but it is nice to like something different

I need to try JHAG powder again, I like the initial sniff a lot

MiaN · 12/10/2025 08:53

I am really curious about Soki's perfumes, particularly aphrodite but there is no sample set available, nowhere to try and the set in boots is 117 euro for 4 travel sizes. I would if I know I will like at least few but it's steep for just trying 4 perfumes if you have not - 4*15ml is good deal if you know them.

Any views on them?

ElizabethG81 · 12/10/2025 10:11

IDontHateRainbows · 12/10/2025 02:00

Id check out reviews on a site such as fragrantica or Basenotes before 'blind buying". Or most big boots, john lewis etc would have a bottle to try before committing?

I’ve talked myself down now! I did have a look at the others and think I might really like Black Opium Le Parfum, so will hopefully try that somewhere this week.

Splcam · 12/10/2025 10:18

MiaN · 12/10/2025 08:53

I am really curious about Soki's perfumes, particularly aphrodite but there is no sample set available, nowhere to try and the set in boots is 117 euro for 4 travel sizes. I would if I know I will like at least few but it's steep for just trying 4 perfumes if you have not - 4*15ml is good deal if you know them.

Any views on them?

On the Soki website you can buy 1.5 ml samples for £5 each. They ship samples to Europe. Aphrodite is one of them (there are 4 available).
https://www.shop.sokilondon.com/collections/soki-london-fragrance-samples

SOKI LONDON Fragrance Samples

Purchase any SOKI LONDON fragrance sample and receive a £5 discount code redeemable against any 50ml perfume.

https://www.shop.sokilondon.com/collections/soki-london-fragrance-samples

JoRaRaRa · 12/10/2025 10:44

ElizabethG81 · 11/10/2025 21:51

I’m finding myself tempted by this as I was supposed to get (and was looking forward to) a sample of YSL Black Opium Glitter with a LF order today but it was missing 😔. So somehow I’m now tempted by a full bottle of something I’ve never tried 😂

I like gourmand scents, vanilla (the more sweet, bakery type that a lot of people seem to hate). Would the experts here think Glitter would be a good option or are any of the other YSL perfumes potentially a better bet?

I've blind bought the glitter as I quite like gourmand vanillas too and I'm a bit of a magpie so that one drew me in. I have a chat with chatgpt about fragrances, I told it everything I have in my collection, then when I've smelt a new fragrance I tell it if I liked it or not. It's then helping me with other fragrances, recently it's been really good with its predictions. This is how it answered when I asked if it thought I'd like black opium glitter:

Quick verdict: I think you’ll probably like this — it’s a sweet, marshmallow-vanilla take on Black Opium with a bright white-floral lift from orange blossom. It’s gourmand and obvious, so wear it sparingly if you don’t want to be “that cloud” — but it should sit in your collection nicely as a cosy, playful evening scent.

What it is (notes & character)

Top: pear, green mandarin, lemon.

Heart: orange blossom / jasmine / white florals.

Base: vanilla absolute, coffee, marshmallow musk, patchouli and musk.
It’s the classic coffee-vanilla Black Opium DNA pushed sweeter and fluffier (the marshmallow musk is the new accent). It’s marketed as long-lasting and gourmand.

Why I think you’ll like it

You enjoy warm, vanilla-forward, slightly gourmand fragrances (Mon Guerlain, Vanilla Powder, Delina) — this fits that cozy, feminine lane.

The orange blossom / floral heart keeps it from being only syrupy; there’s a floral lift that prevents it feeling one-dimensional.

Cautions

It’s sweet and quite noticeable (reviews and retailer copy call out strong projection and marshmallow/vanilla focus). If you disliked heavy, boozy scents like Angels’ Share (which felt “90s social club” to you), this is different — less boozy and more sugary-floral — but it can still be dense if you overspray.

Some people find the orange blossom/top floral can go a bit sharp on the drydown; patchouli anchors it but the overall vibe is gourmand + floral.

How to wear it (so it stays lovely, not overpowering)

One light spray on the back of the neck + one on a wrist (or 1 on chest + 1 on hair). Don’t overspray.

Best for autumn/winter evenings, nights out, or cosy date nights. It’s more of a “feel-good, dessert-y” evening perfume than a subtle daytime pick.

Final recommendation

If you like warm vanilla-marshmallow gourmand notes and want something playful, buy a sample or the smallest bottle — it’s exactly the kind of cosy, sweet perfume that can become a comfort-go-to. If you prefer more refined or niche sweetness (less mainstream gourmand), try it on skin first because it does lean mainstream-sugary.

Hope that helps ✌️🩷

ElizabethG81 · 12/10/2025 10:57

JoRaRaRa · 12/10/2025 10:44

I've blind bought the glitter as I quite like gourmand vanillas too and I'm a bit of a magpie so that one drew me in. I have a chat with chatgpt about fragrances, I told it everything I have in my collection, then when I've smelt a new fragrance I tell it if I liked it or not. It's then helping me with other fragrances, recently it's been really good with its predictions. This is how it answered when I asked if it thought I'd like black opium glitter:

Quick verdict: I think you’ll probably like this — it’s a sweet, marshmallow-vanilla take on Black Opium with a bright white-floral lift from orange blossom. It’s gourmand and obvious, so wear it sparingly if you don’t want to be “that cloud” — but it should sit in your collection nicely as a cosy, playful evening scent.

What it is (notes & character)

Top: pear, green mandarin, lemon.

Heart: orange blossom / jasmine / white florals.

Base: vanilla absolute, coffee, marshmallow musk, patchouli and musk.
It’s the classic coffee-vanilla Black Opium DNA pushed sweeter and fluffier (the marshmallow musk is the new accent). It’s marketed as long-lasting and gourmand.

Why I think you’ll like it

You enjoy warm, vanilla-forward, slightly gourmand fragrances (Mon Guerlain, Vanilla Powder, Delina) — this fits that cozy, feminine lane.

The orange blossom / floral heart keeps it from being only syrupy; there’s a floral lift that prevents it feeling one-dimensional.

Cautions

It’s sweet and quite noticeable (reviews and retailer copy call out strong projection and marshmallow/vanilla focus). If you disliked heavy, boozy scents like Angels’ Share (which felt “90s social club” to you), this is different — less boozy and more sugary-floral — but it can still be dense if you overspray.

Some people find the orange blossom/top floral can go a bit sharp on the drydown; patchouli anchors it but the overall vibe is gourmand + floral.

How to wear it (so it stays lovely, not overpowering)

One light spray on the back of the neck + one on a wrist (or 1 on chest + 1 on hair). Don’t overspray.

Best for autumn/winter evenings, nights out, or cosy date nights. It’s more of a “feel-good, dessert-y” evening perfume than a subtle daytime pick.

Final recommendation

If you like warm vanilla-marshmallow gourmand notes and want something playful, buy a sample or the smallest bottle — it’s exactly the kind of cosy, sweet perfume that can become a comfort-go-to. If you prefer more refined or niche sweetness (less mainstream gourmand), try it on skin first because it does lean mainstream-sugary.

Hope that helps ✌️🩷

Thank you! I’m going to go in somewhere and try Glitter and Le Parfum.

Magpiecomplex · 12/10/2025 11:18

What a good idea to use AI for this! I've been looking for a carnation soliflore, but keep finding ones which have been discontinued. Gemini still recommended one that's no longer available but it did turn up one I hadn't seen before, and reassured me that I haven't missed something obvious. Lush's Potion was amazing, I wish they'd bring it back as a perfume.

MiaN · 12/10/2025 13:11

Sniff report -Queens Caramel Ellis Brooklyn, the name is spot on.

Rare Beauty is so much like burberry goddess. Its strange why release so similar perfume

Miu miu miutine - very early 2000 vibes to my nose

JHAG Powder love - I may need travel, I like it

IDontHateRainbows · 12/10/2025 13:13

Continuing with fleur narcotique today on onr hand, sirene on the other

OP posts:
JoRaRaRa · 12/10/2025 14:53

I received the Roja Elysium that I ordered from vinted today, I think it's lovely, but I'm full of cold so it could smell crap for all I know 🤣 Anyway, it's my SOTD 😊

lokijet · 12/10/2025 15:37

Xejroff - more than words - had a sample and fell in love

OvaHere · 12/10/2025 15:41

JHAG Magnolia Bliss. Not at all suitable for this time of year but I found a travel size of it that I'd forgotten I had and have never tried.

It's quite nice, fruity and summery. Nothing amazing.

MiaN · 12/10/2025 15:46

Few more I sniffed today

Acqua di Parma Buongiorno - this will end up as a bottle at some point, I really enjoy the scent

Cashmere & Palo Santo Donna Karan - I found very interesting but also intense, the type of scent I usually find hard to be around or more then 10 minutes.

Cashmere & Tunisian Neroli Donna Karan - I really like it but not enough to be interested in having travel.

I probably wouldn't buy JHAG Powder Love but it's really nice - just not something I am interested enough right now.

Le Labo The Macha - I liked, would love to get it in advent or set but wouldn't by it

Le labo Ylang 49 - run in the other direction type of scent

Miu Miu Fleur de Lait Miu Miu nice summer scent, not great projection or longevity

Good sniff session, I only tried two on skin - JHAG and Miu Miu Fleur de Lait Miu Miu

SOTD Devotion intense. I am not sure how much I like it, I am glad I don't have more then 30ml.

BakeOffRewatch · 12/10/2025 19:21

Hi has anyone tried BORNTOSTANDOUT Dirty Milk or know how to obtain a sample? Had a Cult Beauty promo email about it and the name and notes description sounds like chai tea which I’d love. I’m a scent novice so if anyone has a view on it, I’d appreciate the learning. CB link: www.cultbeauty.co.uk/p/borntostandout-dirty-milk-eau-de-parfum-50ml/17399236 Fragrantica link: https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/BORNTOSTANDOUT/Dirty-Milk-115452.html £173 for 50ml, so won’t chance it, though I often receive Cb 20% and 25% off offers.

Have just finished up the Ex Nihilo Spiky Muse sample, so that might be a repurchase. £180 for 50ml but might repurchase during Liberty 10% off. https://www.libertylondon.com/uk/spiky-muse-eau-de-parfum-50ml-R633895006.html Fragrantica link: https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Ex-Nihilo/Spiky-Muse-102005.html It says it is rose and strawberry but it smells like lychee to me and anyone who has smelled it in real life with me.

JoRaRaRa · 12/10/2025 19:38

@BakeOffRewatch I've not tried that one, but I did receive a discovery set for BTSO from the hbeauty last week and like them all 😁

Harvey nicks sell Ex Nihilo and currently have 15% off. But, spiky muse is in the Harvey Nicks fragrance advent calendar so there might be quite a few on vinted if you fancy 10ml of it? 😊

OvaHere · 12/10/2025 19:45

@BakeOffRewatch not tried I'm afraid. They are on my list of a brand I'd like to sample. They have an extrait one called Black Creme at Selfridges made by Quentin Bisch. I like a lot of his perfumes but unfortunately it's £255 so def not an impulse buy.

BakeOffRewatch · 12/10/2025 19:55

Thank you for letting me know. It’s just 7.5ml in the HN calendar and it seems a bit overpriced on Vinted - plus would rather have a big bottle. I don’t think it’s one I’d take the risk with on Vinted, the Ex Nihilo 7.5ml bottles are SO fragile https://www.harveynichols.com/harvey-nichols/harvey-nichols-12-days-of-fragrance-advent-calendar-2025-42957-232486/

I’ve gone down a rabbit hole of reading reviews of the BORNTOSTANDOUT fragrances. It’s a Korean brand and looks like Harrods is their first UK store presence. On a Reddit thread about Dirty Rice, there was a comment saying a perfume marketed as bread smelled exactly like rice to them and they thought it was because they were Asian. Wonder if similar reason that’s why strawberry and rose smell like lychee to me? Lychees were in my house as a kid all the time, we lived in the UK. So interesting how smell works!

Funnily enough, they’ve released Black Karak this week - an actual chai smell! I love the sound of Black Crème too https://www.instagram.com/p/DPtOvccD3h

How much were the discovery sets @JoRaRaRa ? I can’t find online

IDontHateRainbows · 12/10/2025 20:00

Liberty 1875 today. This has really grown on me, tobacco and tuberose scent, perfect for autumn.
Also: paradoxe radical essence. This is a deep yummy scent heavy on pistachio and somewhat moreish.

In the mood for smoky, spicy, oudy and gourmandy scents to match the season.

OP posts:
BakeOffRewatch · 12/10/2025 20:01

That sounds lovely @IDontHateRainbows . Is that their most recent release?

JoRaRaRa · 12/10/2025 20:03

@BakeOffRewatch there is one on vinted for £12 😈

I got the discovery set as a freebie at the hbeauty event last weekend. Try messaging them on insta and see if they can send you a sample, it's worth a shot 😊

Scent of the day with the friendly perfumistas spritzing again - thread 5
Scent of the day with the friendly perfumistas spritzing again - thread 5
Scent of the day with the friendly perfumistas spritzing again - thread 5
IDontHateRainbows · 12/10/2025 21:20

BakeOffRewatch · 12/10/2025 20:01

That sounds lovely @IDontHateRainbows . Is that their most recent release?

It is. I happened to be in London last week when it had just released and made my way to liberty.

Bedtime scent is Herrera very good girl. Its a fruity cherry, more zingy than the elixir.

OP posts:
paristotokyo · 13/10/2025 01:24

@JoRaRaRawow durian as a note in that golden juice sample 🙈 please share what you think of that one! I’m so intrigued as durian smells revolting lol

MiaN · 13/10/2025 06:50

Testing good girl today, its way too pretty for me but it really is nice perfume. I

I will be wearing Angel's Share later add my top smells like it. Good way to make sample last