This week I have plunged into an olfactory discovery tour and committed myself to road testing new fragrances that are outside of my normal, go to signature scents. I wanted to see what (if any) reactions I would get from my husband, friends and strangers and to see first hand how fragrance can transform mood and the way I project myself.
by Bahar Etminan, Rescu. Founder and Editor
Stella McCartney L.I.L.Y – the latest launch from the style maker that can seemingly do no wrong, L.I.L.Y stands for Linda I love you in homage to Paul McCartney’s nickname for Stella’s late mother, Linda McCartney. For me, LILY was always going to be a winner (my daughter’s name is Lilly) and the gorgeous, optimistic sophisticated floral does not disappoint. I wore this both day and night and loved the it’s exuberance and sparkle. Quite simply, this fragrance made me happy. A quirky inclusion of truffle in the top note, Lilly of the valley heart and a woodsy oak moss base give this fragrance the perfect blend of modern and traditional. The bottle also reflects this with a blend of crystal and metal. OK, so I am a massive fan of Stella McCartney and was predisposed to loving this new fragrance but the juice itself has also won me over.
RRP: $85 / $110 / $135 30mL / 50mL / 75mL available at David Jones, Myer
Chanel Coco Noir – Ooo La La! Mademoiselle herself would surely have worn this rich, seductive and definitely Adults Only fragrance. Prepare to be followed and commented on. Quite simply this is HOT. Don’t be fooled by the citrus top notes of grapefruit and bergamot. The middle notes are rose, narcissus and jasmine and settle down to a heady base of the dream team that is tonka bean, sandalwood, vanilla, patchouli and white musk frankincense. Wear it with a little black dress, Laboutin pumps and La Perla lingere and remember why women rule the world. I defy any man or woman who doesn’t appreciate this latest offering from Chanel. Destined to be a modern classic.
RRP: 50ml $169, 100ml $248 available from Myer and David Jones nationally
On the complete other end of the spectrum, Apothecary brand Kheils has launched a most delightful ‘Aromatic Blends’ range inspired from travels around the world. These fragrances, body milks and body washes are perfect for those who are exhausted from the sheer range of perfume being launched month after month and want to have a small flirtation with something light, casual yet still beautiful. The collection features some unusual but perfectly complimentary blends of floral, herbaceous and fruity notes and when layered with the matching body products, leaves an all over trail of happiness. I received a tonne of compliments wearing Fig and Sage and would say that if you were committed to a single fragrance as your signature, this could be your off duty weekend flirtation. The reasonable price points are also attractive and make this a great fragrance to use liberally!
Fig Leaf & Sage, Orange Flower & Lychee, Vanilla & Cedarwood, Nashi Blossom & Pink Grapefruit
RRP: $30-$75 available from selected Myer and David Jones stores and Kiehl’s boutique.
