Long Weekend (and then some)

Labor Day Weekend is upon us, followed by The Blond's and mine wedding anniversary (11 years!) on Tuesday. I'll be back Wednesday. In the mean time, if you're looking for something to read, check out the Perfume Blog Aggregator and the Beauty Blogging Network.

Stay beautiful!


Yes, the photo is of us on our (very informal) wedding day.

Long Weekend (and then some)

Labor Day Weekend is upon us, followed by The Blond's and mine wedding anniversary (11 years!) on Tuesday. I'll be back Wednesday. In the mean time, if you're looking for something to read, check out the Perfume Blog Aggregator and the Beauty Blogging Network.

Stay beautiful!


Yes, the photo is of us on our (very informal) wedding day.

Long Weekend (and then some)

Labor Day Weekend is upon us, followed by The Blond's and mine wedding anniversary (11 years!) on Tuesday. I'll be back Wednesday. In the mean time, if you're looking for something to read, check out the Perfume Blog Aggregator and the Beauty Blogging Network.

Stay beautiful!


Yes, the photo is of us on our (very informal) wedding day.

A little fashion exercise: Find the Fug

The other day I was going through the latest bunch of email newsletters and promotionals. Some are deleted with no second thought, others get a second of my time and select few have me act like a good little consumer by clicking them and giving them my undivided attention and consideration.

That was how I found myself browsing the modern and contemporary collections on Saks.com. There are quite a few items I really liked, a couple are going to end up in my closet, but the most interesting thing is the way the little photos of these coats and dresses highlight the biggest fashion problem we have at the moment: Some cuts and shapes are bad for you. Unless, of course, you really want everyone to believe that your waist is bigger than your boobs. If that's the case, I see Stacy and Clinton in your future.

I'd go out on a limb and say the models are most likely tall and skinny. You wouldn't know it from looking at some of the pictures. Also, notice the model who wears these three dresses. It's the same woman, and despite the sack she's wearing on the left, she actually has a beautiful figure:
All I can say is: Don't try this at home. Please.

Images are screen shots taken from Saks.com.

A little fashion exercise: Find the Fug

The other day I was going through the latest bunch of email newsletters and promotionals. Some are deleted with no second thought, others get a second of my time and select few have me act like a good little consumer by clicking them and giving them my undivided attention and consideration.

That was how I found myself browsing the modern and contemporary collections on Saks.com. There are quite a few items I really liked, a couple are going to end up in my closet, but the most interesting thing is the way the little photos of these coats and dresses highlight the biggest fashion problem we have at the moment: Some cuts and shapes are bad for you. Unless, of course, you really want everyone to believe that your waist is bigger than your boobs. If that's the case, I see Stacy and Clinton in your future.

I'd go out on a limb and say the models are most likely tall and skinny. You wouldn't know it from looking at some of the pictures. Also, notice the model who wears these three dresses. It's the same woman, and despite the sack she's wearing on the left, she actually has a beautiful figure:
All I can say is: Don't try this at home. Please.

Images are screen shots taken from Saks.com.

A little fashion exercise: Find the Fug

The other day I was going through the latest bunch of email newsletters and promotionals. Some are deleted with no second thought, others get a second of my time and select few have me act like a good little consumer by clicking them and giving them my undivided attention and consideration.

That was how I found myself browsing the modern and contemporary collections on Saks.com. There are quite a few items I really liked, a couple are going to end up in my closet, but the most interesting thing is the way the little photos of these coats and dresses highlight the biggest fashion problem we have at the moment: Some cuts and shapes are bad for you. Unless, of course, you really want everyone to believe that your waist is bigger than your boobs. If that's the case, I see Stacy and Clinton in your future.

I'd go out on a limb and say the models are most likely tall and skinny. You wouldn't know it from looking at some of the pictures. Also, notice the model who wears these three dresses. It's the same woman, and despite the sack she's wearing on the left, she actually has a beautiful figure:
All I can say is: Don't try this at home. Please.

Images are screen shots taken from Saks.com.

Little Bottle of Horrors - Serge Lutens Datura Noir

This isn't a real review of Serge Lutens Datura Noir, because in order to write one I'd have to wear it again for several days, testing it indoors and out, during the day and when going out at night. Believe me, there's no chance I'll be doing that any time soon. Or ever.

I sniffed, sprayed and tried it on a few times over the last couple of years, mostly getting that "It doesn't really work for me" feeling, washed it off and moved on. A few weeks ago I gave it another try, put on a hefty spritz on my wrist and waited. It was bad.

I can't really speak of notes. It started as white flowers and ended with white flowers, only 1000 times bigger, like Audrey II from Little Shop of Horrors, threatening to swallow me whole. I'm not a big fan of these florals to begin with, but this was worse than any other scent I've tried. Instead of turning creamy, buttery, fading into the woods or any of the other tricks tuberose is known to play, here the florals just got bigger, louder, banshee-er. It screamed. Or maybe it was my poor skin begging for mercy.

Little Bottle of Horrors - Serge Lutens Datura Noir

This isn't a real review of Serge Lutens Datura Noir, because in order to write one I'd have to wear it again for several days, testing it indoors and out, during the day and when going out at night. Believe me, there's no chance I'll be doing that any time soon. Or ever.

I sniffed, sprayed and tried it on a few times over the last couple of years, mostly getting that "It doesn't really work for me" feeling, washed it off and moved on. A few weeks ago I gave it another try, put on a hefty spritz on my wrist and waited. It was bad.

I can't really speak of notes. It started as white flowers and ended with white flowers, only 1000 times bigger, like Audrey II from Little Shop of Horrors, threatening to swallow me whole. I'm not a big fan of these florals to begin with, but this was worse than any other scent I've tried. Instead of turning creamy, buttery, fading into the woods or any of the other tricks tuberose is known to play, here the florals just got bigger, louder, banshee-er. It screamed. Or maybe it was my poor skin begging for mercy.

Little Bottle of Horrors - Serge Lutens Datura Noir

This isn't a real review of Serge Lutens Datura Noir, because in order to write one I'd have to wear it again for several days, testing it indoors and out, during the day and when going out at night. Believe me, there's no chance I'll be doing that any time soon. Or ever.

I sniffed, sprayed and tried it on a few times over the last couple of years, mostly getting that "It doesn't really work for me" feeling, washed it off and moved on. A few weeks ago I gave it another try, put on a hefty spritz on my wrist and waited. It was bad.

I can't really speak of notes. It started as white flowers and ended with white flowers, only 1000 times bigger, like Audrey II from Little Shop of Horrors, threatening to swallow me whole. I'm not a big fan of these florals to begin with, but this was worse than any other scent I've tried. Instead of turning creamy, buttery, fading into the woods or any of the other tricks tuberose is known to play, here the florals just got bigger, louder, banshee-er. It screamed. Or maybe it was my poor skin begging for mercy.

The hazards of too much makeup

Too much, too wrong, too ugly.

The hazards of too much makeup

Too much, too wrong, too ugly.

The hazards of too much makeup

Too much, too wrong, too ugly.

Ask the Non-Blonde: How to do a "naked face"?

Angie is asking: "My skin tone is on the olive side and seems to be similar to yours. I'd love to try a natural look, the kind that appears almost naked, only it isn't, but I'm lost when it comes to the products. All the suggestions I see are for these peachy colors that do nothing for me."

My reply: I know what you mean. Peach-face isn't exactly our best look. Thankfully, there are enough other options for us.

The key to this "natural" look is to do exactly what works for your face, just keep to colors and textures that don't look over-done. It starts with a clear, even skin. My favorite lately is Shiseido Smoothing Veil. It solves the problem of finding the exact match for your skin tone, while still doing the job. Of course, if you need more coverage than this, stick to your regular foundation.

I do touch ups with concealer, mostly the sides of the nose and anywhere else that needs it. My choice is Lorac CoverUp in C2. Use a brush for best results (you end up using less product and looking more natural).

Eyes: I skip the liquid liner and use an eye shadow instead. Bobbi Brown Espresso shadow (the darkest one in the Stonewashed Nudes palette, also sold separately) is great as a liner, because it's very very dark without being a harsh black. I dip a brush in a tiny drop of Paula Dorf's Transformer, swipe a little eye shadow and apply it as close as I can to the lash line, trying to get it in between my lashes. Top only, of course, and without going the Amy Winehouse way.

Eye shadows: One or two colors (this look doesn't call for an elaborate color-by-numbers job) at the most, applied and blended according to your eye shape. Lorac Moonstone under the brow and Cocoa in the crease and on the lid are one option. I also love the two lightest colors from Dior Beige Massai palette, and if you have Bobbi Brown's last year chocolate palette, this would be a good time to use it (I suspect the Stonewashed Nudes are just as good, and would work for most skin tones).

Finish your eyes with a non-extreme black mascara. My favorite is still Clinique High Impact. It makes the lashes stand out without looking fake.

An all-over natural sun kissed color for face is Dallas, Benefit's little miracle. Use it lightly on those spots you want to look a bit tanned, and you're done. If you need powder (highly recommended. It gives a clean, finished look, as long as you're not overdoing it), use whatever pressed one you already have. Save the shimmer for evening.

The last touch is a lip gloss. Go with a color as close to your natural lip as possible, which if you're like me, means not beige, or with a clear gloss with only a hint of color. For the latter look, I adore Besame Cosmetics lip glaze in red berry. It gives that famous "bitten" look (and it feels and smells great). A more opaque option is Alison Rafaelle in Polished or Benefit Silky Finish in Dessert First.

That's it. You're all set.

Ask the Non-Blonde: How to do a "naked face"?

Angie is asking: "My skin tone is on the olive side and seems to be similar to yours. I'd love to try a natural look, the kind that appears almost naked, only it isn't, but I'm lost when it comes to the products. All the suggestions I see are for these peachy colors that do nothing for me."

My reply: I know what you mean. Peach-face isn't exactly our best look. Thankfully, there are enough other options for us.

The key to this "natural" look is to do exactly what works for your face, just keep to colors and textures that don't look over-done. It starts with a clear, even skin. My favorite lately is Shiseido Smoothing Veil. It solves the problem of finding the exact match for your skin tone, while still doing the job. Of course, if you need more coverage than this, stick to your regular foundation.

I do touch ups with concealer, mostly the sides of the nose and anywhere else that needs it. My choice is Lorac CoverUp in C2. Use a brush for best results (you end up using less product and looking more natural).

Eyes: I skip the liquid liner and use an eye shadow instead. Bobbi Brown Espresso shadow (the darkest one in the Stonewashed Nudes palette, also sold separately) is great as a liner, because it's very very dark without being a harsh black. I dip a brush in a tiny drop of Paula Dorf's Transformer, swipe a little eye shadow and apply it as close as I can to the lash line, trying to get it in between my lashes. Top only, of course, and without going the Amy Winehouse way.

Eye shadows: One or two colors (this look doesn't call for an elaborate color-by-numbers job) at the most, applied and blended according to your eye shape. Lorac Moonstone under the brow and Cocoa in the crease and on the lid are one option. I also love the two lightest colors from Dior Beige Massai palette, and if you have Bobbi Brown's last year chocolate palette, this would be a good time to use it (I suspect the Stonewashed Nudes are just as good, and would work for most skin tones).

Finish your eyes with a non-extreme black mascara. My favorite is still Clinique High Impact. It makes the lashes stand out without looking fake.

An all-over natural sun kissed color for face is Dallas, Benefit's little miracle. Use it lightly on those spots you want to look a bit tanned, and you're done. If you need powder (highly recommended. It gives a clean, finished look, as long as you're not overdoing it), use whatever pressed one you already have. Save the shimmer for evening.

The last touch is a lip gloss. Go with a color as close to your natural lip as possible, which if you're like me, means not beige, or with a clear gloss with only a hint of color. For the latter look, I adore Besame Cosmetics lip glaze in red berry. It gives that famous "bitten" look (and it feels and smells great). A more opaque option is Alison Rafaelle in Polished or Benefit Silky Finish in Dessert First.

That's it. You're all set.

Ask the Non-Blonde: How to do a "naked face"?

Angie is asking: "My skin tone is on the olive side and seems to be similar to yours. I'd love to try a natural look, the kind that appears almost naked, only it isn't, but I'm lost when it comes to the products. All the suggestions I see are for these peachy colors that do nothing for me."

My reply: I know what you mean. Peach-face isn't exactly our best look. Thankfully, there are enough other options for us.

The key to this "natural" look is to do exactly what works for your face, just keep to colors and textures that don't look over-done. It starts with a clear, even skin. My favorite lately is Shiseido Smoothing Veil. It solves the problem of finding the exact match for your skin tone, while still doing the job. Of course, if you need more coverage than this, stick to your regular foundation.

I do touch ups with concealer, mostly the sides of the nose and anywhere else that needs it. My choice is Lorac CoverUp in C2. Use a brush for best results (you end up using less product and looking more natural).

Eyes: I skip the liquid liner and use an eye shadow instead. Bobbi Brown Espresso shadow (the darkest one in the Stonewashed Nudes palette, also sold separately) is great as a liner, because it's very very dark without being a harsh black. I dip a brush in a tiny drop of Paula Dorf's Transformer, swipe a little eye shadow and apply it as close as I can to the lash line, trying to get it in between my lashes. Top only, of course, and without going the Amy Winehouse way.

Eye shadows: One or two colors (this look doesn't call for an elaborate color-by-numbers job) at the most, applied and blended according to your eye shape. Lorac Moonstone under the brow and Cocoa in the crease and on the lid are one option. I also love the two lightest colors from Dior Beige Massai palette, and if you have Bobbi Brown's last year chocolate palette, this would be a good time to use it (I suspect the Stonewashed Nudes are just as good, and would work for most skin tones).

Finish your eyes with a non-extreme black mascara. My favorite is still Clinique High Impact. It makes the lashes stand out without looking fake.

An all-over natural sun kissed color for face is Dallas, Benefit's little miracle. Use it lightly on those spots you want to look a bit tanned, and you're done. If you need powder (highly recommended. It gives a clean, finished look, as long as you're not overdoing it), use whatever pressed one you already have. Save the shimmer for evening.

The last touch is a lip gloss. Go with a color as close to your natural lip as possible, which if you're like me, means not beige, or with a clear gloss with only a hint of color. For the latter look, I adore Besame Cosmetics lip glaze in red berry. It gives that famous "bitten" look (and it feels and smells great). A more opaque option is Alison Rafaelle in Polished or Benefit Silky Finish in Dessert First.

That's it. You're all set.

It's not you, it's me: L'Artisan Mure et Musc, Grès Cabaret

Before I've learned about anosmia, I thought either my skin was making certain perfumes evaporate upon contact, or the fragrance makers were playing the Emperor's New Clothes trick on me. Only, it wasn't the emperor who was naked. It's my nose, which has a completely blind spot when it comes to certain musks. Not all of them, mind you. I get a musky drydown in many popular scents (Valentino V Absolu, several of the Bonds and others), and have no problem smelling and enjoying Serge Lutens Clair de Musc, a beautiful, coy gem of a fragrance that I never expected to enjoy as much as I do.

L'Artisan Parfumeur Mure et Musc, both the regular and the extreme versions, are the best examples for my anosmia. The EdT starts sharp, soapy and mildly unpleasant. Even the blackberry isn't recognizable to my nose. I can't say I'm sorry to see it all gone without a trace within 10 minutes. The berries are much more prominent in the EdP (the extreme fragrance). It's sweet but still soapy. I couldn't confirm it, but my nose insists there's a touch of white flowers, possibly lilies somewhere behind the fruit, but that's about it. It's much longer lasting than the original, especially when sprayed, with an almost sickening sweetness. My bottom line is: Berries, lily of the valley and a non-existent base do not bode well for me and my nose.


Another scent which gives me a hard time is Parfums Grès Cabaret. I can't say for sure if it's my skin swallowing and destroying most of the notes or a nose thing again (the base is supposedly musky), but as far as I'm concerned, the lovely bottle holds nothing but a pale rose soap. Pleasant, harmless, very clean but far from exciting or interesting. I really wanted to love this perfume. It was supposed to be very sexy, as the corset bottle hints. The semantic field of cabaret associations and images are dark, moody, dangerous, glitzy and sexual. I know several people who swear by this fragrance, but once it meets me, other than a pale chyper-like kick at the top, it folds the notes head-to-tail, and leaves me with nothing but a floral and demure disappointment. If what I'm smelling is true, this scent can be worn by a young girl as well as by her schoolmarmish great aunt. Then again, it might just be my nose.

It's not you, it's me: L'Artisan Mure et Musc, Grès Cabaret

Before I've learned about anosmia, I thought either my skin was making certain perfumes evaporate upon contact, or the fragrance makers were playing the Emperor's New Clothes trick on me. Only, it wasn't the emperor who was naked. It's my nose, which has a completely blind spot when it comes to certain musks. Not all of them, mind you. I get a musky drydown in many popular scents (Valentino V Absolu, several of the Bonds and others), and have no problem smelling and enjoying Serge Lutens Clair de Musc, a beautiful, coy gem of a fragrance that I never expected to enjoy as much as I do.

L'Artisan Parfumeur Mure et Musc, both the regular and the extreme versions, are the best examples for my anosmia. The EdT starts sharp, soapy and mildly unpleasant. Even the blackberry isn't recognizable to my nose. I can't say I'm sorry to see it all gone without a trace within 10 minutes. The berries are much more prominent in the EdP (the extreme fragrance). It's sweet but still soapy. I couldn't confirm it, but my nose insists there's a touch of white flowers, possibly lilies somewhere behind the fruit, but that's about it. It's much longer lasting than the original, especially when sprayed, with an almost sickening sweetness. My bottom line is: Berries, lily of the valley and a non-existent base do not bode well for me and my nose.


Another scent which gives me a hard time is Parfums Grès Cabaret. I can't say for sure if it's my skin swallowing and destroying most of the notes or a nose thing again (the base is supposedly musky), but as far as I'm concerned, the lovely bottle holds nothing but a pale rose soap. Pleasant, harmless, very clean but far from exciting or interesting. I really wanted to love this perfume. It was supposed to be very sexy, as the corset bottle hints. The semantic field of cabaret associations and images are dark, moody, dangerous, glitzy and sexual. I know several people who swear by this fragrance, but once it meets me, other than a pale chyper-like kick at the top, it folds the notes head-to-tail, and leaves me with nothing but a floral and demure disappointment. If what I'm smelling is true, this scent can be worn by a young girl as well as by her schoolmarmish great aunt. Then again, it might just be my nose.

It's not you, it's me: L'Artisan Mure et Musc, Grès Cabaret

Before I've learned about anosmia, I thought either my skin was making certain perfumes evaporate upon contact, or the fragrance makers were playing the Emperor's New Clothes trick on me. Only, it wasn't the emperor who was naked. It's my nose, which has a completely blind spot when it comes to certain musks. Not all of them, mind you. I get a musky drydown in many popular scents (Valentino V Absolu, several of the Bonds and others), and have no problem smelling and enjoying Serge Lutens Clair de Musc, a beautiful, coy gem of a fragrance that I never expected to enjoy as much as I do.

L'Artisan Parfumeur Mure et Musc, both the regular and the extreme versions, are the best examples for my anosmia. The EdT starts sharp, soapy and mildly unpleasant. Even the blackberry isn't recognizable to my nose. I can't say I'm sorry to see it all gone without a trace within 10 minutes. The berries are much more prominent in the EdP (the extreme fragrance). It's sweet but still soapy. I couldn't confirm it, but my nose insists there's a touch of white flowers, possibly lilies somewhere behind the fruit, but that's about it. It's much longer lasting than the original, especially when sprayed, with an almost sickening sweetness. My bottom line is: Berries, lily of the valley and a non-existent base do not bode well for me and my nose.


Another scent which gives me a hard time is Parfums Grès Cabaret. I can't say for sure if it's my skin swallowing and destroying most of the notes or a nose thing again (the base is supposedly musky), but as far as I'm concerned, the lovely bottle holds nothing but a pale rose soap. Pleasant, harmless, very clean but far from exciting or interesting. I really wanted to love this perfume. It was supposed to be very sexy, as the corset bottle hints. The semantic field of cabaret associations and images are dark, moody, dangerous, glitzy and sexual. I know several people who swear by this fragrance, but once it meets me, other than a pale chyper-like kick at the top, it folds the notes head-to-tail, and leaves me with nothing but a floral and demure disappointment. If what I'm smelling is true, this scent can be worn by a young girl as well as by her schoolmarmish great aunt. Then again, it might just be my nose.

J Lo doesn't believe in showing her feet

...Or in getting her pants hemmed.


Photo from A Socialite's Life.

J Lo doesn't believe in showing her feet

...Or in getting her pants hemmed.


Photo from A Socialite's Life.

J Lo doesn't believe in showing her feet

...Or in getting her pants hemmed.


Photo from A Socialite's Life.

Soapbox

Nothing to do with beauty, fragrance or fashion, and only marginally so with celebrities. I just wanted to put it in public that I will never, ever watch a Jamie Foxx movie, nor will I endorse any project of which he'd be part.

The reason is here.

Soapbox

Nothing to do with beauty, fragrance or fashion, and only marginally so with celebrities. I just wanted to put it in public that I will never, ever watch a Jamie Foxx movie, nor will I endorse any project of which he'd be part.

The reason is here.

Soapbox

Nothing to do with beauty, fragrance or fashion, and only marginally so with celebrities. I just wanted to put it in public that I will never, ever watch a Jamie Foxx movie, nor will I endorse any project of which he'd be part.

The reason is here.

Here's something to tide us over while waiting for Bobbi Brown's Metallics: Cargo has several new eye palettes. What I like about them is the combinations of pretty neutrals with one or two high octane colors which, if used just right, can take your look into the realms of "wow!".

My method, which I use for all va-va-voom colors, is to use the boldest color just as an eye liner, adding a hint of brightness to an otherwise tame look. I draw a medium width line with a thin, stiff-bristled angled brush and blend it into the neutral color I use on the crease.

Out of this bunch, my favorite is Mozambique. Cargo are always making beautiful teal shadows. The aquamarine one here would blend beautifully with the more delicate quartz and sand.

Here's something to tide us over while waiting for Bobbi Brown's Metallics: Cargo has several new eye palettes. What I like about them is the combinations of pretty neutrals with one or two high octane colors which, if used just right, can take your look into the realms of "wow!".

My method, which I use for all va-va-voom colors, is to use the boldest color just as an eye liner, adding a hint of brightness to an otherwise tame look. I draw a medium width line with a thin, stiff-bristled angled brush and blend it into the neutral color I use on the crease.

Out of this bunch, my favorite is Mozambique. Cargo are always making beautiful teal shadows. The aquamarine one here would blend beautifully with the more delicate quartz and sand.

Here's something to tide us over while waiting for Bobbi Brown's Metallics: Cargo has several new eye palettes. What I like about them is the combinations of pretty neutrals with one or two high octane colors which, if used just right, can take your look into the realms of "wow!".

My method, which I use for all va-va-voom colors, is to use the boldest color just as an eye liner, adding a hint of brightness to an otherwise tame look. I draw a medium width line with a thin, stiff-bristled angled brush and blend it into the neutral color I use on the crease.

Out of this bunch, my favorite is Mozambique. Cargo are always making beautiful teal shadows. The aquamarine one here would blend beautifully with the more delicate quartz and sand.

Bobbi Goes Metallic!

The title reminds me of the promos for Ninotchka: "Garbo Laughs!" Sounds equally surprising, isn't it?

The queen of natural looking (well, except of that horrible violet face palette) makeup is taking a bold step with four limited edition eye shadow palette, described as "velvety shimmering". Judging by the above photo (from an email sneak peek), there's a good chance they'd be lovely and very wearable.

*August 28th Update: This collection is now available from Nordstrom and Bobbi's web site. I'm leaning towards the plum one.

Bobbi Goes Metallic!

The title reminds me of the promos for Ninotchka: "Garbo Laughs!" Sounds equally surprising, isn't it?

The queen of natural looking (well, except of that horrible violet face palette) makeup is taking a bold step with four limited edition eye shadow palette, described as "velvety shimmering". Judging by the above photo (from an email sneak peek), there's a good chance they'd be lovely and very wearable.

*August 28th Update: This collection is now available from Nordstrom and Bobbi's web site. I'm leaning towards the plum one.

Bobbi Goes Metallic!

The title reminds me of the promos for Ninotchka: "Garbo Laughs!" Sounds equally surprising, isn't it?

The queen of natural looking (well, except of that horrible violet face palette) makeup is taking a bold step with four limited edition eye shadow palette, described as "velvety shimmering". Judging by the above photo (from an email sneak peek), there's a good chance they'd be lovely and very wearable.

*August 28th Update: This collection is now available from Nordstrom and Bobbi's web site. I'm leaning towards the plum one.

Ask the Non-Blonde

Among the emails I got lately (personal replies have been sent, as always), there were several questions that might be of interest to others, for more reasons than one. Here goes:

• Q: I can't find most perfumes you write about. Where do you get samples now that eBay is not allowing them?
  A: When it comes to niche perfume, most online stores sell samples. Both Aedes and Luckyscent let you order them online. Both stores are quite generous with free samples when you buy a full bottle. Also, if you can get to a L'Artisan store, you'll never leave empty handed (they have a limited selection of samples online). And, last, The Perfume Court has the most amazing selection of perfume: new, rare and vintage. You can buy samples, decants and in some cases also full bottles.
  
  
• Q: I read your comment on Faking Good Breeding 's blog regarding beauty/fashion blog recommending expensive creams and shoes, and I don't buy it. Are you too snobby to write about stuff people can buy from WalMart?
  A: As I said in my comment to Meg, this is a personal blog. I write about what I know and I have a specific point of view. There's no Wal-Mart in my county, so I wouldn't know what's sold there.
  
  
• Q: Can every woman wear red lipstick?
  A: There's probably a right shade of red for everyone. At least for special occasions. Despite what Mary-Kate Olsen might think, not everyone can pull it off when wearing grungy clothes and going on a Starbucks run.
  
  
• Q: Why do you bother writing about people like Mary-Kate Olsen?
  A: Sadly, MK is a high-profile celeb whose style is being photographed and emulated by women around the world (including some who have no business even considering it). She wears and inspires fashion, I say what I think of her.
  
  
• Q: What's your favorite perfume?
  A: While I love many fragrances and would always like to have a large and varied collection, if I'm pressed against the wall and can only have one scent, it would be L'Air du Desert Marocain from Tauer Perfumes. It's deeply satisfying for me.
  

Ask the Non-Blonde

Among the emails I got lately (personal replies have been sent, as always), there were several questions that might be of interest to others, for more reasons than one. Here goes:

• Q: I can't find most perfumes you write about. Where do you get samples now that eBay is not allowing them?
  A: When it comes to niche perfume, most online stores sell samples. Both Aedes and Luckyscent let you order them online. Both stores are quite generous with free samples when you buy a full bottle. Also, if you can get to a L'Artisan store, you'll never leave empty handed (they have a limited selection of samples online). And, last, The Perfume Court has the most amazing selection of perfume: new, rare and vintage. You can buy samples, decants and in some cases also full bottles.
  
  
• Q: I read your comment on Faking Good Breeding 's blog regarding beauty/fashion blog recommending expensive creams and shoes, and I don't buy it. Are you too snobby to write about stuff people can buy from WalMart?
  A: As I said in my comment to Meg, this is a personal blog. I write about what I know and I have a specific point of view. There's no Wal-Mart in my county, so I wouldn't know what's sold there.
  
  
• Q: Can every woman wear red lipstick?
  A: There's probably a right shade of red for everyone. At least for special occasions. Despite what Mary-Kate Olsen might think, not everyone can pull it off when wearing grungy clothes and going on a Starbucks run.
  
  
• Q: Why do you bother writing about people like Mary-Kate Olsen?
  A: Sadly, MK is a high-profile celeb whose style is being photographed and emulated by women around the world (including some who have no business even considering it). She wears and inspires fashion, I say what I think of her.
  
  
• Q: What's your favorite perfume?
  A: While I love many fragrances and would always like to have a large and varied collection, if I'm pressed against the wall and can only have one scent, it would be L'Air du Desert Marocain from Tauer Perfumes. It's deeply satisfying for me.
  

Ask the Non-Blonde

Among the emails I got lately (personal replies have been sent, as always), there were several questions that might be of interest to others, for more reasons than one. Here goes:

• Q: I can't find most perfumes you write about. Where do you get samples now that eBay is not allowing them?
  A: When it comes to niche perfume, most online stores sell samples. Both Aedes and Luckyscent let you order them online. Both stores are quite generous with free samples when you buy a full bottle. Also, if you can get to a L'Artisan store, you'll never leave empty handed (they have a limited selection of samples online). And, last, The Perfume Court has the most amazing selection of perfume: new, rare and vintage. You can buy samples, decants and in some cases also full bottles.
  
  
• Q: I read your comment on Faking Good Breeding 's blog regarding beauty/fashion blog recommending expensive creams and shoes, and I don't buy it. Are you too snobby to write about stuff people can buy from WalMart?
  A: As I said in my comment to Meg, this is a personal blog. I write about what I know and I have a specific point of view. There's no Wal-Mart in my county, so I wouldn't know what's sold there.
  
  
• Q: Can every woman wear red lipstick?
  A: There's probably a right shade of red for everyone. At least for special occasions. Despite what Mary-Kate Olsen might think, not everyone can pull it off when wearing grungy clothes and going on a Starbucks run.
  
  
• Q: Why do you bother writing about people like Mary-Kate Olsen?
  A: Sadly, MK is a high-profile celeb whose style is being photographed and emulated by women around the world (including some who have no business even considering it). She wears and inspires fashion, I say what I think of her.
  
  
• Q: What's your favorite perfume?
  A: While I love many fragrances and would always like to have a large and varied collection, if I'm pressed against the wall and can only have one scent, it would be L'Air du Desert Marocain from Tauer Perfumes. It's deeply satisfying for me.
  

The tube of Korres Yoghurt Cooling Gel has been taking up space in my big box o'lotions for a while now. It's supposedly an after-sun product, but I've been extremely good about avoiding exposure and haven't even gotten my nose red, not to mention any other body part. Come to think of it, I'm quite proud of myself. The down side (other than the gallons of self-tanners I've been using) is that I didn't get a chance to try this gel for soothing UV-irritated skin.

However, irritation comes in all shapes and forms, and I managed to find a great use for this Korres. My post-workout skin has started to get a bit itchy and more sensitive than usual, and it doesn't completely go away after showering. I dug out the tube and started using it daily (body only) with impressive results. The itchiness is gone right away, my skin feels calm, moisturized and softer that it's been in a long time. The gel goes on a bit sticky but absorbs fast while my skin stays supple for hours. I'm impressed and intend to also give it a try on my winter skin.

This gel is unscented. It has a faint but distinct smell, which isn't unpleasant. It might be the yogurt or any of the extracts or seed oils used in it, because the product smells "natural" and maybe a bit musky. As long as it's on my legs and arms, it doesn't interfere with my perfume, but I'd be careful about mixing the two.

The tube of Korres Yoghurt Cooling Gel has been taking up space in my big box o'lotions for a while now. It's supposedly an after-sun product, but I've been extremely good about avoiding exposure and haven't even gotten my nose red, not to mention any other body part. Come to think of it, I'm quite proud of myself. The down side (other than the gallons of self-tanners I've been using) is that I didn't get a chance to try this gel for soothing UV-irritated skin.

However, irritation comes in all shapes and forms, and I managed to find a great use for this Korres. My post-workout skin has started to get a bit itchy and more sensitive than usual, and it doesn't completely go away after showering. I dug out the tube and started using it daily (body only) with impressive results. The itchiness is gone right away, my skin feels calm, moisturized and softer that it's been in a long time. The gel goes on a bit sticky but absorbs fast while my skin stays supple for hours. I'm impressed and intend to also give it a try on my winter skin.

This gel is unscented. It has a faint but distinct smell, which isn't unpleasant. It might be the yogurt or any of the extracts or seed oils used in it, because the product smells "natural" and maybe a bit musky. As long as it's on my legs and arms, it doesn't interfere with my perfume, but I'd be careful about mixing the two.

The tube of Korres Yoghurt Cooling Gel has been taking up space in my big box o'lotions for a while now. It's supposedly an after-sun product, but I've been extremely good about avoiding exposure and haven't even gotten my nose red, not to mention any other body part. Come to think of it, I'm quite proud of myself. The down side (other than the gallons of self-tanners I've been using) is that I didn't get a chance to try this gel for soothing UV-irritated skin.

However, irritation comes in all shapes and forms, and I managed to find a great use for this Korres. My post-workout skin has started to get a bit itchy and more sensitive than usual, and it doesn't completely go away after showering. I dug out the tube and started using it daily (body only) with impressive results. The itchiness is gone right away, my skin feels calm, moisturized and softer that it's been in a long time. The gel goes on a bit sticky but absorbs fast while my skin stays supple for hours. I'm impressed and intend to also give it a try on my winter skin.

This gel is unscented. It has a faint but distinct smell, which isn't unpleasant. It might be the yogurt or any of the extracts or seed oils used in it, because the product smells "natural" and maybe a bit musky. As long as it's on my legs and arms, it doesn't interfere with my perfume, but I'd be careful about mixing the two.

Watered Down - Jil Sander Pure

Once upon a time there was a Jil Sander fragrance named Pure. It was created in 1979 (not a great year for perfumery, if you look at this list), and boasted an impressive list of notes:

Top: Aldehyde, Galbanum, Coriander, Bergamot, Leaves

Heart: Rose, Jasmin, Carnation, Ylang-Ylang, Gardenia, Muguet, Tuberose

Base: Oakmoss, Styrax, Leather, Benzoin, Vetiver, Cedar

This was, of course, too good to be true (I'm guessing, since I've never actually sniffed it), and this perfume was discontinued and forgotten, until 2003 when a new fragrance was launched under this very same name.

I found two descriptions of this scent. FragranceNet simply calls it "a crisp, watery scent", while according to Neiman Marcus, it's "A blow of freshness: pure air molecule, cyclamen flower, fresh petal jasmine, lush sap."

I happened upon a bottle of the shower gel and gave it a try. The good news is that it doesn't make me itch like crazy. Seriously, I'm allergic to many a soap, so not wishing for someone to come and flay me is a very good thing. The bad news is that those descriptions of air and water are quite accurate. Pure smells like nothing. It makes me think of those HR memos to employees about not wearing perfume to work so they wouldn't offend their sensitive coworkers. This is the most politically correct fragrance. It makes me want to marinate myself in Miel de Bois.

Watered Down - Jil Sander Pure

Once upon a time there was a Jil Sander fragrance named Pure. It was created in 1979 (not a great year for perfumery, if you look at this list), and boasted an impressive list of notes:

Top: Aldehyde, Galbanum, Coriander, Bergamot, Leaves

Heart: Rose, Jasmin, Carnation, Ylang-Ylang, Gardenia, Muguet, Tuberose

Base: Oakmoss, Styrax, Leather, Benzoin, Vetiver, Cedar

This was, of course, too good to be true (I'm guessing, since I've never actually sniffed it), and this perfume was discontinued and forgotten, until 2003 when a new fragrance was launched under this very same name.

I found two descriptions of this scent. FragranceNet simply calls it "a crisp, watery scent", while according to Neiman Marcus, it's "A blow of freshness: pure air molecule, cyclamen flower, fresh petal jasmine, lush sap."

I happened upon a bottle of the shower gel and gave it a try. The good news is that it doesn't make me itch like crazy. Seriously, I'm allergic to many a soap, so not wishing for someone to come and flay me is a very good thing. The bad news is that those descriptions of air and water are quite accurate. Pure smells like nothing. It makes me think of those HR memos to employees about not wearing perfume to work so they wouldn't offend their sensitive coworkers. This is the most politically correct fragrance. It makes me want to marinate myself in Miel de Bois.

Watered Down - Jil Sander Pure

Once upon a time there was a Jil Sander fragrance named Pure. It was created in 1979 (not a great year for perfumery, if you look at this list), and boasted an impressive list of notes:

Top: Aldehyde, Galbanum, Coriander, Bergamot, Leaves

Heart: Rose, Jasmin, Carnation, Ylang-Ylang, Gardenia, Muguet, Tuberose

Base: Oakmoss, Styrax, Leather, Benzoin, Vetiver, Cedar

This was, of course, too good to be true (I'm guessing, since I've never actually sniffed it), and this perfume was discontinued and forgotten, until 2003 when a new fragrance was launched under this very same name.

I found two descriptions of this scent. FragranceNet simply calls it "a crisp, watery scent", while according to Neiman Marcus, it's "A blow of freshness: pure air molecule, cyclamen flower, fresh petal jasmine, lush sap."

I happened upon a bottle of the shower gel and gave it a try. The good news is that it doesn't make me itch like crazy. Seriously, I'm allergic to many a soap, so not wishing for someone to come and flay me is a very good thing. The bad news is that those descriptions of air and water are quite accurate. Pure smells like nothing. It makes me think of those HR memos to employees about not wearing perfume to work so they wouldn't offend their sensitive coworkers. This is the most politically correct fragrance. It makes me want to marinate myself in Miel de Bois.

D is for Discontinued (and for online Discounters)

Slowly but surly, with a scary determination, classic and mainstream perfume houses are discontinuing older fragrances. Some are gone forever, others are reformulated beyond recognition. The reasons are many, but they all come to the bottom line of sales and revenues. The executed bottles are many of your old favorites. It seems that every day another one is gone to the eternal oakmoss fields.

If you've been getting a strange feeling that the new bottle of your signature scent doesn't smell the way it was supposed to, you're most likely right. You can either adjust, switch or go vintage. Just beware of fakes and con artists on eBay.

If you wear the older Fendis, this is the time to stock up on the classic Fendi. Asja is already very hard to find as is the wonderful Theorema. Gucci L'Arte is gone, most Oscar de la Renta scents are disappearing quickly, Roberto Cavalli was just discontinued, but there are still many bottles around. Kenzo Jungle L'Elephant and L'Tiger are mostly gone, but a few online stores still have a few bottles. The gorgeous incense fragrance from Barbara Bui is becoming hard to find, but still possible.

The classic Cartier scents Must, Must II and the original So Pretty are becoming the center of bid wars on eBay. Nothing has yet reached the legendary hysteria of Donna Karan Chaos (google it for a good laugh at the prices it gets), but we can take guesses at the next underground hit.

While I admit I no longer buy mainstream mass market fragrances created after 1999 (with the exception of Barbara Bui, though I'm not sure it really qualifies as such, Cartier Le Baiser du Dragon and Alexander McQueen Kingdom, another goner), I'm sad to see this trend. I've been stocking up on my 80s and 90s favorites and must admit I'm worried for some of my other favorites, like Black Cashmere and Jil Sander #4.

D is for Discontinued (and for online Discounters)

Slowly but surly, with a scary determination, classic and mainstream perfume houses are discontinuing older fragrances. Some are gone forever, others are reformulated beyond recognition. The reasons are many, but they all come to the bottom line of sales and revenues. The executed bottles are many of your old favorites. It seems that every day another one is gone to the eternal oakmoss fields.

If you've been getting a strange feeling that the new bottle of your signature scent doesn't smell the way it was supposed to, you're most likely right. You can either adjust, switch or go vintage. Just beware of fakes and con artists on eBay.

If you wear the older Fendis, this is the time to stock up on the classic Fendi. Asja is already very hard to find as is the wonderful Theorema. Gucci L'Arte is gone, most Oscar de la Renta scents are disappearing quickly, Roberto Cavalli was just discontinued, but there are still many bottles around. Kenzo Jungle L'Elephant and L'Tiger are mostly gone, but a few online stores still have a few bottles. The gorgeous incense fragrance from Barbara Bui is becoming hard to find, but still possible.

The classic Cartier scents Must, Must II and the original So Pretty are becoming the center of bid wars on eBay. Nothing has yet reached the legendary hysteria of Donna Karan Chaos (google it for a good laugh at the prices it gets), but we can take guesses at the next underground hit.

While I admit I no longer buy mainstream mass market fragrances created after 1999 (with the exception of Barbara Bui, though I'm not sure it really qualifies as such, Cartier Le Baiser du Dragon and Alexander McQueen Kingdom, another goner), I'm sad to see this trend. I've been stocking up on my 80s and 90s favorites and must admit I'm worried for some of my other favorites, like Black Cashmere and Jil Sander #4.

D is for Discontinued (and for online Discounters)

Slowly but surly, with a scary determination, classic and mainstream perfume houses are discontinuing older fragrances. Some are gone forever, others are reformulated beyond recognition. The reasons are many, but they all come to the bottom line of sales and revenues. The executed bottles are many of your old favorites. It seems that every day another one is gone to the eternal oakmoss fields.

If you've been getting a strange feeling that the new bottle of your signature scent doesn't smell the way it was supposed to, you're most likely right. You can either adjust, switch or go vintage. Just beware of fakes and con artists on eBay.

If you wear the older Fendis, this is the time to stock up on the classic Fendi. Asja is already very hard to find as is the wonderful Theorema. Gucci L'Arte is gone, most Oscar de la Renta scents are disappearing quickly, Roberto Cavalli was just discontinued, but there are still many bottles around. Kenzo Jungle L'Elephant and L'Tiger are mostly gone, but a few online stores still have a few bottles. The gorgeous incense fragrance from Barbara Bui is becoming hard to find, but still possible.

The classic Cartier scents Must, Must II and the original So Pretty are becoming the center of bid wars on eBay. Nothing has yet reached the legendary hysteria of Donna Karan Chaos (google it for a good laugh at the prices it gets), but we can take guesses at the next underground hit.

While I admit I no longer buy mainstream mass market fragrances created after 1999 (with the exception of Barbara Bui, though I'm not sure it really qualifies as such, Cartier Le Baiser du Dragon and Alexander McQueen Kingdom, another goner), I'm sad to see this trend. I've been stocking up on my 80s and 90s favorites and must admit I'm worried for some of my other favorites, like Black Cashmere and Jil Sander #4.