By Livia Scarcella
Now that the Christmas/New Year season has come and gone, it’s time for all of us to get back to work. But do you find your mind drifts to thoughts of a week in a tropical paradise or a cruise around the Mediterranean? Well, put away your passport, because Rescu. has a few fragrance suggestions that will transport you to these destinations – without leaving the country!
Inspired by the garden on top of Hermes’ headquarters at 24, Faubourg in Paris (hence the name: literally meaning ‘a garden on the roof’), the latest in the ‘Jardin’ series of scents is a refreshing blend of apple, pear, basil, rose, magnolia, grass and (surprisingly) compost! A great daytime fragrance for any occasion – and you don’t need to be in Paris to enjoy it!
Available at Hermes boutiques, selected David Jones and Myer and at the Hermes’ Australian website (50ml EDT – $115, $100ml EDT – $160; also available as body lotion).
Another fantastic day scent is the new fragrance by Yves Saint Laurent, which they named after their iconic Saharienne safari jacket. Featuring notes of lemon, bergamot, mandarin, white petals, orange leaves, galbanum, blackberry buds, pink pepper berries and ginger, Saharienne is as refreshing as an oasis spring!
Available at Myer and David Jones (50ml EDT – $90, 75ml EDT – $120, 125ml EDT – $165).
Corsica is known for being the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte and for its stunning scenery, and L’Occitane capture essence of the island in ‘Myrte’, part of the company’s ‘Notre Flore’ series of scents. Myrtle is surrounded by berry and citrus notes and a base of patchouli. Green and floral, light with a hint of sweetness, Myrte will transport you to the Mediterranean in no time!
Available at L’Occitane boutiques, the L’Occitane website and at selected independents – check the website for locations (75ml EDP – $89.95).
Love the Pacific islands, but don’t want to hop on a plane? Estee Lauder’s Pleasures Exotic is a good alternative: pink grapefruit, “mango passion fruit cocktail” (sounds good, doesn’t it?), lychee, hibiscus, sandalwood and amber all contribute to this stunning summer scent. A tropical paradise in a bottle!
Available at Myer, David Jones and from the EsteeLauder website (30ml EDP – $80, 50ml EDP – $100, 100ml EDP – $145).
As one of the most romantic cities in the world, second only to Paris, the ‘City of Canals’ has been an important part of Italian history since the Renaissance. Italian company Eau d’Italie has created a modern interpretation of the city’s rich history in fragrance form, featuring notes of cinnamon, cardamom, orange, saffron, myrrh, frankincense, vetiver, benzoin and vanilla. A gorgeous oriental to add to your fragrance wardrobe!
Available at Mecca Cosmetica stores and at the Mecca Cosmetica website (100ml EDT – $169).
If you’re looking for a fragrance that represents the essence of the Middle East, we recommend Tom Ford’s Arabian Wood: top notes of lavender, bergamot, orange blossom and galbanum blend with rose, jasmine, honey and orris, followed by a base of cedarwood, sandalwood, patchouli and amber. Rich and luxurious, Arabian Wood is a stunningly deep scent; great for when the weather turns cool!
Available exclusively at David Jones city stores (50ml EDP – $290, 250ml EDP – $750).
Inspired by the mountains of Nova Scotia, Canada, this unisex fragrance includes notes of juniper berries, elemi (a tree resin with a pine & citrus scent), angelica, maple syrup, fir balsam and gaiac wood. The closest thing to hitting the slopes… without strapping on some skis!
Available at the Molton Brown Emporium store, Queen Victoria Building Sydney, and at selected David Jones (50ml EDT – $140).
The continent of Asia may contain many different ethnic groups, cultures and religions, but there is one smell that links most parts of it – incense. Featuring notes of incense, teak, coffee, cypress oil, ‘everlasting flower’, amber, patchouli, cedar and vetiver, Comme des Garcons’ Kyoto captures the deep and alluring incense smell perfectly.
Available at Mecca Cosmetica stores and at the Mecca Cosmetica website (50ml EDT – $140).
