<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><feed xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xml:lang="en"><title>Latest entries from wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com</title><rights>Copyright 2009 wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com</rights><subtitle></subtitle><author><name></name></author><updated>2009-11-14T23:59:00Z</updated><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/"/><link rel="self" type="application/atom+xml" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/index.rss"/><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009:1</id><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-10-14:links.412186232</id><title>FTC Blogging Guidelines</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/ftc_blogging_guidelines_1.htm"><![CDATA[Beginning Dec. 1, bloggers will be required to disclose any "material connections" (i.e. payments or freebies) they receive from companies whose products they review. I want to state right now that I have never received payment or gifts in exchange for my reviews. I have, however, occasionally received free samples (which may have been full-sized products) - can't do a review without the actual product in hand! For the most part, I have paid for or obtained my own samples, and have undertaken product reviews of my own accord.
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Additionally, if I say I like a product, it's because I honestly do, not because anyone asked me to make that claim.
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Starting now, I will tag any future product reviews with an indicator that the sample was given to me by the manufacturer, or if I obtained it myself. And I promise never to take money or in-kind payment in exchange for a positive review. The purpose of this blog is not to mislead readers, but to encourage them to try the products with which I have had a positive experience. It's all about integrity, and apparently the FTC doesn't think bloggers have much of that.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/ftc_blogging_guidelines_1.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-10-14T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-10-14T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-09-19:links.412183224</id><title>Combining Blogs</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/combining_blogs.htm"><![CDATA[Hi All :)
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It has been difficult for me to maintain this blog while continuing to update my four others (<a href='http://minxbeads.blogspot.com'>fashion blog</a>, <a href='http://minxeats.com'>food blog</a>, <a href='http://alltopchef.blogspot.com'>Top Chef blog</a>, <a href='http://bloggingbravo.blogspot.com'>Bravo blog</a>). I rarely get a comment on this blog, so it's hard for me to tell if anyone reads or appreciates my fragrance reviews. For that reason, I am discontinuing this blog. That is not to say that I will stop doing fragrance reviews - I will continue, but they will be found on my fashion blog, which will morph to include beauty. So for those of you who are interested, please change your bookmarks to <a href='http://minxbeads.blogspot.com'>http://minxbeads.blogspot.com</a>.
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This blog will remain up, at least for the time being. (I'm also kinda not fond of having to pay for the site, whereas Blogger, for now, is free.)]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/combining_blogs.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-09-19T00:03:00Z</updated><published>2009-09-19T00:03:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-09-07:links.412181383</id><title>Juliet</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/juliet_1.htm"><![CDATA[<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/juliet_perfume_150.jpg' alt="Juliet" border='0'/ align="right">Makeup artist Juliet Stewart's motto is "Be Unforgettable...Own Your Beauty." With her first fragrance, <em>Juliet</em>, she "seeks to express, in the creative form of a new fragrance, the essence and personal importance of my motto."<BR>
<blockquote>The perfume “Juliet” captures the subtle but real enthusiasm that every woman can feel when she is confident that she is unique and noticed. This fragrance is an original one from me, but it is not limited by me. It is not limited at all; it is open, friendly and filled with warmth. This perfume has a magical edge that captures the attention of others.
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I have a purpose in producing this perfume: to demonstrate that my name stands for meaningful beauty that all of us need so much in our lives. It is the first product I have created but it is only the start of my brand. I give you the opportunity to share this fragrance with me, and I want you to expect more things from me that are of equal quality for use by all of us.
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There is this most clean and pleasurable surprise when you first nuzzle up to its opening accord of the finest, most classic Italian notes of Lemons from Amalfi, Basil, Bergamot and Sicilian Orange coupled with nuances of fresh Mediterranean Herbs that are rendered ultra-feminine with Italian Jasmine and Vanilla from Madagascar on a warm background of Amber and Precious Woods from the Orient that make you feel truly beautiful.</blockquote>

<em>Juliet</em>, the fragrance, is indeed a pleasurable surprise. Opening notes of citrus, predominately lemon and bergamot, coupled with herbal tones, make this a refreshing, almost bracing eau-de-cologne-ish scent. I say almost, because there is, even at the opening, an undertone of warmth. The woods are lightly noticeable, and there’s a touch of vanillaic sweetness. It’s not until the drydown, however, and several hours in, that the bright notes fade sufficiently for one to notice the beautiful soft amber.
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<em>Juliet</em> is right up my alley. I like fragrances that have a combination of citrus and herbs, particularly basil, and I am particularly drawn to woody vanilla and amber scents. <em>Juliet</em> is all of the above. It starts out bright and sunny, then ends up cozy. And it’s a fragrance that both men and women can wear equally well – it smells yummy on my husband too.
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<em>Juliet</em> is available at <a href='http://www.julietperfume.com'>http://www.julietperfume.com</a>/, $125 for 50ml.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/juliet_1.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-09-07T16:21:00Z</updated><published>2009-09-07T16:21:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-09-01:links.412179938</id><title>Taking a Vacation</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/taking_a_vacation.htm"><![CDATA[...back in a couple of weeks!]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/taking_a_vacation.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-09-01T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-09-01T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-08-27:links.412179937</id><title>Never Too Early....</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/never_too_early_1.htm"><![CDATA[...to start thinking about Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We should always be aware.
<BR><a href="http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/celebrate_pink_october_sm.jpg"><img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/celebrate_pink_october_sm.jpg' width=400 border='0'/></a>
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A SWEET Way To Celebrate Pink<BR>
LaLicious Supports National Breast Cancer Awareness Month with their Sugar Kiss Scent
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During the month of October, LaLicious will be donating 15% of every Sugar Kiss purchase online at www.lalicious.com  to the Breast Cancer Research Fund.  Sugar Kiss is a blissful combination of citrus, rose, and vanilla aromas.  The Sugar Kiss Sugar Soufflé Scrub and Body Butter are the perfect warm and sugary scents to satisfy body cravings without the calories and help women everywhere fight breast cancer.
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-	Sugar Kiss Sugar Soufflé Scrub: $34.00  (8oz)<BR>
-	Sugar Kiss Body Butter: $24.00 (7.3oz)
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LaLicious maintains its form from creation to application using natural ingredients. The complete line of body products are paraben and sulfate free. LaLicious helps exfoliate condition, moisturize, and smooth your skin to perfection!  
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LaLicious products and treatments are available at www.LaLicious.com and at select retailers and spas across the country.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/never_too_early_1.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-08-27T16:45:00Z</updated><published>2009-08-27T16:45:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-08-25:links.412178256</id><title>ME! Bath Ice Cream</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/me_bath_ice_cream.htm"><![CDATA[<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/bf3mebathicecream.jpg' width=200 align="right" border='0'/>Pamper yourself with ME! Bath Ice Cream®, a flavorful and moisturizing scoop of luxury for your bathtub. Each piece is comprised of a unique six oil blend, purifying minerals, indulgent fragrances and Epsom Salt, and is one hundred percent artisan crafted, taking three days to custom make.<BR><BR>
ME! Bath Ice Cream® fizzes and melts immediately when submerged in water, releasing nourishing minerals and fragrant aromatic oils that will hydrate, moisturize and enrich your skin. Simply fill your tub normally and drop in a Bath Ice Cream®, soak and relax while your skin enjoys this decadent treat!<BR><BR>
I had the "Cleopatra" scent which was almondy and quite pleasant. My skin felt smooth and silky after a bath. The tub also felt a bit smooth - too smooth. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly after using products containing oils so the next person to take a shower doesn't break anything!<BR><BR>
Available in the latest BeautyFix mailing.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/me_bath_ice_cream.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-08-25T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-08-25T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-08-20:links.412174989</id><title>Chanel Beige</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/beige.htm"><![CDATA[<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/beige.jpg' align="right" border='0' width=150>Notes: hawthorne, freesia, frangipani, lily, heliotrope, ylang ylang, honey<BR><BR>
<em>Beige</em> is the latest in the Les Exclusifs line of Chanel fragrance. I heard lots of good things about this scent, even if nobody was particularly impressed by the name. "Beige" sounds sorta dull, and while the scent isn't dull, it's not breaking any ground.<BR><BR>
<em>Beige</em> is a rich white floral fragrance warmed and mellowed with a honey accord. I don't normally care for the scent of honey, but I don't read it as such in this fragrance. It's more like white flowers and tons of white musk, somewhat overpowering if one spritzes more than a bit. It's a scent that, although very floral, is also "clean" and babyish (reminding me a lot of Johnson's Baby Lotion on first application).<BR><BR>
I will admit that I like <em>Beige</em>, but don't find it particularly full-bottle-worthy, particularly the enormous bottle that is standard packaging for the Les Exclusifs line. But a decant is just fine.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/beige.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-08-20T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-08-20T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-08-18:links.412177222</id><title>L&apos;Occitane Iris</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/loccitane_iris.htm"><![CDATA[<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/iris.jpg' align="left" border='0'/>Notes: bergamot, pink pepper, iris, galbanum, violet, tonka bean, papyrus
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I don't know what it is about L'Occitane fragrances, but they all smell the same to me. Well, not identical, but extremely similar. That's not to say I don't like them - I really like <em>Rose 4 Reines</em> (despite it's initial acetone topnote). L'Occitane's <em>Iris</em> is similar, light and bright, but with iris replacing the rose. While the iris note is a bit rooty, the scent isn't because of the light bergamot in the top and the powdery violet that comes in a bit later with a tiny bit of spice from pink peppercorn.<BR><BR>
<em>Iris</em> is a pretty summery scent that's not too sweet and not too dry and something I'd recommend as a good "starter" iris fragrance.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/loccitane_iris.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-08-18T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-08-18T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-08-13:links.412177769</id><title>Degree Body Mist</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/degree_body_mist.htm"><![CDATA[<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/bf3degreewomen.jpg' align="right" border='0'/>Summer's <a href='http://www.beautyfix.com/'>BeautyFix</a> kit contains a sample of the new Degree Women "Fine Fragrance" Collection (quotes mine). While I will admit having smelled many recent fragrance releases that are similar, I am loath to call any of them "fine." Think Bath and Body Works and you'll be close, although the Degree scent I tested, "Classic Romance" (an inoffensive rose-ish fragrance) doesn't have as much longevity as the BBW body sprays I've bought over the years. (I sprayed some on before breakfast, poured myself a bowl of cereal, ate, had a 15-minute conversation with my husband, and poof, it was gone.) Here's the official word on the product. (I'm thinking the underarm deodorant is the one with the long-lasting smell.)
<blockquote>The new Degree Women Fine Fragrance Collection combines long-lasting, sophisticated scents with Degree Women's 24-hour wetness and odor protection for everyday luxury. Each deodorant is paired with a matching body mist for the ultimate fine fragrance experience for women on the move. With three distinct scents, Delicious Bliss, Sexy Intrigue and Classic Romance, women can choose the fine fragrance that suits them best. Find both in the deodorant aisle!<BR><BR>
World-renowned fragrance expert Ann Gottlieb – "the nose" behind many of the most successful and prestigious fragrances – inspired each scent as a perfume with top notes, middle notes and base notes. In fragrance sniff tests, more women preferred Degree Women Fine Fragrance Collection over a top-selling fine fragrance, based on a sample of 100 participants.
Fragrance ingredients of the highest quality and Degree's top-class protection allow women to have the best of both worlds – all-day protection with the deodorant along with a luxurious body mist that they can take on the go anytime, anywhere.<BR><BR>
Application:  To further enhance the effects of fragrance layering, apply the scent to your pulse points - wrists, the sides of the neck, elbow creases, behind the knees, around the ankles and between the breasts. Reapply the long-lasting body mist anytime, anywhere to freshen up and stimulate your senses....</blockquote>
Anyway, the product exists.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/degree_body_mist.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-08-13T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-08-13T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-08-11:links.412177770</id><title>pur-lisse pur-lip comfort</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/purlisse_purlip_comfort.htm"><![CDATA[<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/bf3purlisse.jpg' align="left" border='0'/><a href='http://www.glow.com/Pur-Lip-Comfort-p26326.htm'>"Pur~Lip Comfort Daily Lip Nourisher</a> from Pur~lisse blends centuries-old Chinese beauty secrets with modern day science to protect and preserve your lips.  Pur~Lip comfort utilizes naturally effective ingredients to relieve dry, chapped, and cracked lips. The highly emollient formula combines Mango Butter, Shea Butter, Vitamin E, and Rice Bran Oil to leave lips soft, moist, supple and youthful-looking.  As with all Pur~lisse products, Pur~Lip comfort is completely free of petrochemicals, parabens, dyes, fragrances, and other harsh ingredients."
<BR><BR>I like moist lips, so I am constantly applying some sort of gloss or other product. Pur~Lip comes in a generously sized 0.5 oz tube, great for heavy users like moi. It glides on smoothly and doesn't feel too greasy. Unfortunately, I don't find that it lasts very long so I have to reapply. But YMMV, so it's worth a try. After using it for a week, I did find my lips to be nice and moist and supple. Kissable, I suppose, but you'd have to ask Mr Minx about that. ;)]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/purlisse_purlip_comfort.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-08-11T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-08-11T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-08-06:links.412178479</id><title>Success is a Job in New York</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/success_is_a_job_in_new_york.htm"><![CDATA[<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/bondnew.jpg' align="left" border='0'/ height=300>Or so they say. The "they" is Bond no. 9, and this is the name of their latest Andy Warhol fragrance. Billed as a "warm and spicy gourmand," I see it more as a spicy tuberose scent. I don't get the bergamot and mandarin in the beginning at all - the scent goes directly to spice, heavy on the cardamom and nutmeg. Beneath that is tuberose, sweetened with plum. In the background is lots of powdery vanilla and a bit of patch for grounding. <BR><BR>
Overall, I find Success to be a somewhat old-fashioned scent, a sweet/spicy oriental with a lot of oomph. Me likey.
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Notes: bergamot, cardamom, mandarin, coriander, nutmeg, pimento, tuberose, rose de mai, jasmine, plum, iris, patchouli, benzoin, vanilla
<BR><BR><em>Andy Warhol Success is a Job in New York</em> will be available starting October 1st, 2009 at Bond boutiques in NY and Saks nationwide. Suggested price: $220 for 100ml; $145 for 50ml.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/success_is_a_job_in_new_york.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-08-06T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-08-06T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-08-04:links.412177220</id><title>The Different Company Bois d&apos;Iris</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/tcc_boisdiris.htm"><![CDATA[<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/25300.jpg' title='please give title' border='0'/ align="left">Notes: iris, vetiver, bergamot, cedar wood, narcissus, geranium, musk
<BR><BR>When I requested suggestions for iris scents to test, Jean-Claude Ellena's Bois d'Iris was one of the recommendations. A lovely POLer sent me a generous sample to try (along with a few others).<BR><BR> I like this one very much, but to my nose, iris is a minor player. The cool rootiness is there, especially at first, but it soon becomes wrapped in a warm blanket of sweet powder (a tad violety) seasoned with spicy geranium. Underlying the powder is a soft woodsiness, as if someone mixed a bit of cedar into a bottle of baby lotion. Weirdly, the combination is almost incense-like. It's rather cozy and comforting, something I really don't expect from an iris fragrance.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/tcc_boisdiris.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-08-04T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-08-04T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-07-30:links.412177894</id><title>Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/skindinavia_spray.htm"><![CDATA[<div align="center">
<object width="350" height="200"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/n9m8295VTtk&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/n9m8295VTtk&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="350" height="200"></embed></object></div><BR>
<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/bf3skindinavia.jpg' align="right" border='0'/ height=280><a href='http://skindinavia.com/web/makeup-finishing-spray.html'>Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray</a> bills itself as "the orginal makeup saver," and "the first mist created to extend wear by cooling the makeup surface." It has a "unique color pigment dispersion system that keeps makeup well-blended with no clumping or smudging of foundation, eye shadow, blush, and concealer. Stops makeup from melting, losing color, or drying out. Works with all types of makeup." 
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Just don't spray it immediately after applying mascara. Unless you're going for the "instant raccoon" look. Otherwise, yeah, it does a pretty good job of keeping makeup in place. It feels a little odd going on - wet - but it dries quickly. 
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Featured in the upcoming BeautyFix mailing.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/skindinavia_spray.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-07-30T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-07-30T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-07-28:links.412177764</id><title>Bond No. 9 Harrods</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/bondharrods.htm"><![CDATA[<div align="center"><img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/harrods_newcollections.jpg' title='please give title' border='0'/></div><BR>
Bond No. 9 has stepped out of their New York comfort zone and gone overseas to London, partnering with Harrods department store for three new fragrances.<BR><BR>

<strong><em>Harrods for Her</em></strong><BR> 
Notes: neroli petals, mandarin, wild chamomile, tuberose, clary sage, nutmeg, amber, leather, sandalwood, vetiver<BR><BR>

Tuberose and leather - doesn't that sound promising! After a light citrussy opening with a bit of spice, we head into a pretty tuberose, not too sweet, not cloying, not too va va voom - just right. The scent is mostly citrus and tuberose for a while, but then there's a surprise - leather. At about the same time the leather comes around though, the tuberose goes all wintergreen on me, which is a bit of a turnoff; thankfully, that effect doesn't last long. The sandalwood/vetiver base is subtle, but not as subtle as the leather. I wish there was more of that note.

Overall, a very pretty scent that should please Bond fans on both sides of the pond.

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<strong><em>Harrods for Him</em></strong><BR>
Notes: rhubarb leaf, star anise, chamomile, lavandin, pimento berries, violet leaf, birchwood, musk, sandalwood
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<em>Harrods for Him</em>, a fougere, starts out with a spicy green top with a bit of lavender. I like spicy and green, but this may be a tad harsh for my tastes (as are most typical men's scents) The brightness is almost spiky to my nose.<BR><BR>

The drydown has some softening musk and woods, but it's not quite enough to soften the rather unpleasant sharpness. I like Harrods for Him more than I liked Saks Fifth Avenue for Men, but they're both in the same "meh" category for me.
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Both <em>Harrods for Her</em> and <em>Harrods for Him</em> are available in 50ml for $155 and 100ml for $230.

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<em><strong>Harrods Special Edition</strong></em><BR>
Notes: black pepper, cumin, amber, myrrh, oud, vetiver
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Wait - Bond does oud? Boy, and how! While I can appreciate the often-medicinal smelling oud note, I dislike it in most scents. But it's perfect in <em>Harrods SE</em>, blending seamlessly with amber and myrrh, spiced lightly with pepper, and a bare shadow of cumin. Overall, it has the illusion of rich leather upon which a droplet of rare oudh has been placed. It reminds me of a cousin of <em>10 Corso Como</em>, which I adore.
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<em>Special Edition</em> comes in a limited edition Swarovski bottle for $625. Available August 2.
<BR><BR>
<strong>All Bond <em>Harrod</em> scents will be available exclusively at Harrods, at Bond No. 9's four NY stores, harrods.com, and bondno9.com.</strong>]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/bondharrods.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-07-28T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-07-28T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-07-23:links.412176776</id><title>Crazy for Iris - or Just Crazy</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/crazy_for_iris.htm"><![CDATA[Time and time again I've insisted I don't like iris fragrances. Their cold rootiness really turns me off. And now suddenly I find myself craving them. I purchased Hermes <em>Hiris</em> in NY last month and am currently soliciting suggestions for other "must-try" iris scents.
<BR><BR>
Favorites so far: <em>Hiris</em>, <em>Citta di Kyoto</em>, YR <em>Iris Noir</em>, Heeley <em>Iris Nuit</em>, and Odori <em>Iris</em>. I also like the iris in By Kilian <em>Prelude to Love Invitation</em>.
<BR><BR>
I'm eagerly awaiting some samples; I'll give my thoughts on each at some point on this blog. What are your suggestions, dear reader?]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/crazy_for_iris.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-07-23T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-07-23T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-07-21:links.412175597</id><title>Summer Scents</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/summer_scents_1.htm"><![CDATA[I usually find myself reaching for the same scents over and over again during Baltimore's hot, humid summers. We've been so far blessed with fairly pleasant weather - lots of rain, but not a lot of suffocating heat. Still, I have my summertime favorites:<BR><BR>
<strong>Hermes <em>Eau de Merveilles</em></strong> - wonderfully dry and almost salty, this light citrus and ambergris is perfect for hot sticky weather.<BR><BR>
<strong>Estee Lauder <em>Azurée Soleil</em> </strong>or <strong><em>Bronze Goddess</strong></em> - yummy coconutty white floral, like suntan lotion, but better.<BR><BR>
<strong>Parfums 06130 <em>Yuzu Rouge</em</strong>> - crisp, bracing, and refreshing.<BR><BR>
<strong>Hermes <em>Un Jardin Sur Le Nil</strong></em> - crisp again, with lots of citrus over a pleasantly woodsy base.<BR><BR>
<strong>Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo <em>Mirto di Panarea</strong></em> - like a blast of  Mediterranean sea and sunshine.<BR><BR>
<strong>Bond No. 9 <em>Brooklyn</em></strong> - I love the dry herbaceousness, like a gin and tonic that doesn't make me sick. :)
<BR><BR>
What do you find yourself reaching for in hot weather?]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/summer_scents_1.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-07-21T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-07-21T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-07-16:links.412176950</id><title>Meet the Creators of sj&#xe4;l Skincare This Weekend</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/sjal.htm"><![CDATA[<div align="center"><img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/sjal.jpg' title='please give title' border='0'/></div> 
själ is the skincare choice of a new generation of consumers drawn to its groundbreaking blend of luxury, cosmeceuticals and spirituality, all in a simple, fast, and effective regimen.  It has won numerous best of beauty awards in the US and around the world for its pioneering concept, modern design, exceptional quality and dramatic, beautiful results for all skin types for women.<BR><BR>
Please Join Kristin Petrovich, Co-owner & Creator of själ skincare for a complimentary consultation & deluxe samples of the själ skincare collection
<BR><BR>
White's Chemist and Perfumers<BR>
81 Main St. <BR>
East Hampton, NY <BR>
631-324-0082<BR> 
Saturday, July 18th
11-4pm<BR>
<BR>
and...
<BR><BR>
Please Join Karen Petrovich, Co-Owner & Creator of själ skincare for a complimentary consultation & deluxe samples of the själ skincare collection, as well as a gift with purchase
 <BR><BR>
Crush Cosmetics<BR>
4 South Water Street<BR>
Nantucket, MA  <BR>
508-228-0170<BR> 
Friday, July 17th 1-4pm <BR>
Saturday, July 18th 10-4pm]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/sjal.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-07-16T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-07-16T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-07-14:links.412175366</id><title>Six Scents No. 4</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/sixscents4.htm"><![CDATA[Notes: dill, black pepper, nutmeg, palisander, black tea, amyris, white amber, musk <BR><BR>

I'm fascinated by English designer Gareth Pugh. Why? Because he designs stuff like this:<BR>

<div align="center"><img src="http://www.theminx.com/opalescent/garethpugh3.jpg"></div>
Yes, that cape is made from rats.
 
So when I read that he had a hand in designing a scent, I had to smell it. I imagined it to be bizarre, metallic, rubbery. (Or smelling like rats.) Here's what <a href="http://luckyscent.com">LuckyScent</a> has to say about it:

<blockquote>We will tell you right up front – this is a very unusual scent. Dill and black pepper and strong black tea and majestic palissander and something we can’t properly identify that reminds us of rubber. This is a startling bundle of contradictions – dark and light, harsh and smooth, sour and spicy, natural and synthetic. It is an exploration of contrast. The drydown is mostly wood, but with a hint of unsettling bitterness. It’s not for everyone – which is perfectly appropriate for Gareth Pugh, whose idiosyncratic fashions and exaggerated silhouettes bring to mind expressionist harlequin robots. Fabulous and bizarre, Gareth Pugh’s fashion is for those with a gothic sense of high drama. And this fragrance is for those who are looking for something unique. Endlessly intriguing. 
<BR><BR>
<em>“Contrast, ambiguity, duality. Gareth Pugh said about his style: “it’s a struggle between lightness and darkness;” this is what I tried to translate in this perfume. The contrast between different raw materials, masculine and feminine, rough and smooth, dark and light, fresh and sensual.”</em> – Emilie Coppermann, Perfumer</blockquote>
Well, I don't buy any of it. No. 4 is a light, woodsy scent. There may be some tea and amber and musk in the drydown, but I don't get any dill or nutmeg. It's like something that Comme des Garcons would put out - unusual, but not freaky. Different, but not really weird. And it doesn't smell like rats.<BR><BR>I love it.
<div align="center">
<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/pugh.jpg'border='0'/></div>]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/sixscents4.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-07-14T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-07-14T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-07-09:links.412176390</id><title>Bond No. 9</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/bond_no_9.htm"><![CDATA[<div align="center"><img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/bondnew3.jpg' title='please give title' border='0'/> <BR>“Think rich, look poor.” Andy Warhol  </div><BR>
At last … Bond No. 9 is dropping all pretenses and selling MONEY! (Sort of.) 
Introducing our latest eau de parfum, 
<strong><em>Andy Warhol Success is a Job in New York</strong></em>, 
with a $cent as $eductively $weet as a dollar $ign. 
        <BR><BR>                                                 
             Perfumes have always trafficked in the elusive and the taboo.  And since nothing could be more elusive than money, particularly in our current economic downturn, we’ve made cash the inspiration and focus for the latest in the Bond No. 9 series of collectible Andy Warhol eaux de parfum.  Appearing on both sides of the bottle is an image of one of Warhol’s iconic subjects, the almighty dollar sign created by Warhol in 1981, while inside is a fittingly rich and beckoning scent we’ve named <em>Andy Warhol Success is a Job in New York</em>. Prophetically, Warhol’s first assignment in the ‘50s as an illustrator was for a Glamour magazine article entitled “Success is a Job in New York.” The title was later used for a book about Warhol’s early career. Through hard work and leveraging his immense talent as a draftsman, Andy Warhol would become one of the most successful commercial artists in New York City thus laying the foundation to become one of the most important fine artists of the 20th century. Wearing it will bring untold wealth.  (Just kidding, but in this economic downturn we all need a sense of humor.)  
<BR><BR>  
            So here is the world’s first money-oriented perfume.  <em>Success</em> breaks the rules of romantic perfume subjects, but it suits the Warholian consumer sensibility.  Throughout his career, Warhol was fascinated with the connections between art and money.  In the ‘60s, he painted Pop Art canvases with grids of banknotes, and he stuffed dollar bills into soup cans.  Then in the early ‘80s, just as Reaganomics and Dynasty got under way and paintings became consumer items, he isolated the image of the dollar sign­sinuous yet with that ominous slash down the center­in a series of silk-screened “portraits.” 
 <BR><BR><div align="center"><img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/bondnew.jpg' title='please give title' border='0'/></div><BR>
<strong>
The Bottle</strong> <BR>
            The Warhol image we chose for the <em>Success</em> bottle is not your typical banker’s dollar sign.  Instead, this one has an in-your-face, trembling quality, dripping with paint and with seemingly tentative border outlines revealed­as if uncovering the connection between art and money.  The colors we selected from the Warhol series of Dollar Signs in 1981, tongue-in-cheek neons (in fashion this fall), are unorthodox too:  coral for the front of the bottle, bright blue for the back. 
 <BR><BR>
<strong>The Perfume</strong> <BR>
            Just like money, the scent is genderless­a warm and spicy gourmand.  And just like money, it lures and intoxicates all who give it a sniff.  Its spicy-citrussy top- notes­coriander, cardamom, mandarin, bergamot­lead into a throbbing heart of jasmine, tuberose, rose, plum and pimento (of all things) that eventually segues into an oriental base of vanilla, patchouli, and amber.    <BR><BR> 
            Bond No. 9 <em>Andy Warhol Success is a Job in New York</em>, available at all four Bond No. 9 stores in New York and at select branches of Saks Fifth Avenue.<BR><BR><div align="center">Launch date:  October 1st, 2009 <BR>
Suggested Retail Price:  $220 for 100ml; $145 for 50ml </div>]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/bond_no_9.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-07-09T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-07-09T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-07-07:links.412171314</id><title>Kerstin Florian Neroli Water</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/neroli_water.htm"><![CDATA[<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/bf2_kerstinflorian.jpg' align='right' border='0'/><blockquote>
Kerstin Florian has dedicated her life to bringing the spa experience into people’s everyday lives, and she does just that with her Aromatherapy Neroli Water.  Neroli is a pure floral water derived from the bitter orange blossom, which is known for its ability to relieve tension and anxiety, and to have an overall soothing effect on the nervous system.  The Neroli Water can be used as a facial toner after cleansing - but skip the cotton pad – a fine mist is the perfect way to apply.  You can also use it as a body spray after bathing, to keep hydrated during flights, or as a freshener throughout the day.  We recommend keeping it on-hand for stressful moments – we have been known to obsessively mist ourselves before tight deadlines.  It helps us relax, while keeping our skin hydrated and smooth</blockquote>

I hate the summer. After taking public transportation back and forth to work every day and dealing with stress at the office, lord knows I need a little pick-me-up when I get home. And that's when I give myself a little blast of something tonic to cool myself off. Neroli Water is just perfect; it's refreshing and lightly scented with orange blossom. In addition to easing tension, orange blossom is also believed to increase creativity and inspiration, and as an artist, I need as much of that as I can get!
<BR><BR>Included in this quarters's BeautyFix collection.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/neroli_water.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-07-07T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-07-07T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-07-02:links.412171312</id><title>Exuviance Rejuvenating Treatment Mask</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/exuviance.htm"><![CDATA[<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/bf2_exuviance.jpg' align="left" border='0'/><Blockquote>
Don’t have time to head to the spa for a facial to soothe your tired face? Neither do we. But we do make time for this exclusive, pore-cleansing blend of alpha and polyhydroxy acids. Slather the refreshing gel mask on your clean face, and don’t be shy - an extra-thick layer renders the best results. Give yourself twenty minutes of sheer relaxation (we insist), then peel to reveal firmer skin, energized pores and vanished fine lines. We love that this product is the real deal: the company behind it was formed by the two doctors who made the groundbreaking discovery that alpha hydroxy acids (AHA’s) have a unique ability to stimulate prematurely aged or damaged skin to rejuvenate itself. Use the Exuviance mask once a week, or more for stressed skin. Your face will thank you, and you’ll look like you’ve actually been getting those crucial eight hours of deep sleep.</blockquote>
I don't know about looking like I got more sleep, but the Exuviance mask does make my skin look firmer and smoother, at least temporarily. And I kinda like the smell - it reminds me a bit of fresh plums. And do slather it on thickly - it peels off better that way.<BR><BR>
Available in this quarter's BeautyFix package.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/exuviance.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-07-02T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-07-02T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-06-30:links.412171311</id><title>Lisa Hoffman Vitamin A &amp; C Serum</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/lisa_hoffman.htm"><![CDATA[<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/bf2lisahoffman.jpg' align="right" border="0"><blockquote>
Straight from Lisa Hoffman’s dreams (literally - the brand was sparked by a dream she had) to your beauty routine, the Vitamin A & C Serum will smooth and firm your skin, revealing a youthful glow.  Regularly traveling the globe with her husband, actor Dustin Hoffman, Lisa gathers beauty secrets along the way and incorporates them into her cutting-edge products.  This serum is her personal fave (she fondly refers to it as “liquid gold”) and after one application, you’ll discover why.  Apply this powerful potion to your skin before bedtime and awake to a more radiant you. The silky texture glides on beautifully, the Vitamin A reduces the visible signs of aging, and the Vitamin C repairs damage inflicted by environmental aggressors.  This panelist favorite will quickly become a staple in your beauty arsenal.  </blockquote>

Lisa Hoffman's Vitamin A & C Serum does have a lovely texture that glides on beautifully - it immediately makes skin feel more supple and moist. I have combination skin, so I apply it to the drier areas of my face (cheeks, around the eyes) that seems to need the most help. I love it, and my skin really does look better in the morning. I've been using it for about 2 weeks now and know I'll see even more improvement after longer use.<BR><BR>


Included in this quarter's BeautyFix collection.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/lisa_hoffman.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-06-30T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-06-30T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-06-25:links.412171315</id><title>Glowelle 7-Day Powder Sticks</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/glowelle_7day_powder_sticks.htm"><![CDATA[<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/bf2_glowelle.jpg' align="left" border='0'/ width=200><blockquote>Glowelle is a dietary supplement in the form of a beauty drink that packs a powerful punch.  Fighting back against aging from the inside out only requires one drink per day. Each powder packet contains a beauty-inducing concoction of antioxidants—including Vitamins A, C and E—that your skin needs to stay hydrated and glowing. Both the tangy-sweet Pomegranate Lychee and the refreshing Raspberry Jasmine flavor packets contain as much Vitamin E as found in 108 almonds, as much selenium as found in nearly two servings of salmon, and as much lutein as found in eight cups of romaine lettuce. You can mix the powder packet with water or with your favorite juice, but we recommend making a Glowelle smoothie. Drink up, and bring your inner beauty to the surface.</blockquote>
Ok - while full of antioxidants and all that good stuff, the Glowelle sticks is probably my least favorite thing from the BeautyFix pack this quarter. I got Raspberry Jasmine, which smells like a dead ringer for powdered raspberry Jell-o and doesn't taste much better; it has the rather pronounced bitterness of artificial sweetener. And the powder is gritty and doesn't quite dissolve all the way - there's always a thick residue left at the bottom of my glass, no matter how much water I add, or whether I shake or stir.<BR><BR>Personally, I'll stick to my multivitamin pills.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/glowelle_7day_powder_sticks.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-06-25T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-06-25T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-06-23:links.412171316</id><title>Global Goddess iDivine Eyeshadow</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/idivine_eyeshadow.htm"><![CDATA[<img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/bf2_globalgoddess.jpg' align='right' border='0'/ width=160><blockquote>Celebrity makeup artist Shalini Vadhera has always been fascinated by the beauty secrets of women from different cultures around the world. So fascinated, in fact, that she wrote a best selling book Passport to Beauty and created Global Goddess Beauty – a line of cosmetics inspired by international beauty techniques that features exotic ingredients. Developed with your inner seductress in mind, i-Divine Eyeshadows are formulated with highly pigmented color in a velvety texture that glides over lids effortlessly. All of the shadows are infused with powerful antioxidants from white tea, which means you get a satiny eye shadow that does double duty, working tirelessly to reverse the effects of aging free radicals.</blockquote><BR><BR>I hate that some eyeshadows - even some high-end ones - feel rough on the lids and while they deliver pigment, it falls right off. iDivine is indeed velvety and goes on wonderfully smoothly, and the color lasts for quite a while. I have oily lids, so nothing lasts forever on me, but this was pretty good. And if the effects of free radicals are being reversed in the process...hmmm...I should stock up!<BR><BR>In this quarter's BeautyFix mailing.]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/idivine_eyeshadow.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-06-23T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-06-23T05:00:00Z</published></entry><entry><id>tag:wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com,2009-06-18:links.412174338</id><title>Cinquieme Sens</title><content type="html" xml:lang="en" xml:base="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/cinquieme_sens.htm"><![CDATA[I found this in my mailbox the other day. Sounds like fun!
<blockquote><div align="center"><img src='http://files.blog-city.com/files/J07/59573109/p/f/logo.png' border='0'/></div><BR>
Dear Perfume Lovers<BR><BR> 
Have you ever heard about Cinquième Sens (Fifth Sense in French)? Any self-respecting fragrance fanatic should know that Cinquième Sens is a well-known perfumery school, based in Paris just near the Eiffel Tower. Our New York training center is located Midtown East, near to the Grand Central Station and we propose small group workshops for anyone who wants to learn about fragrances. Our method of work is interactive and we carry a particular attention to the quality of our trainings and the interactions between participants.<BR><BR> 
Would you like to test your sense of smell? Identify the different raw materials? Understand the vocabulary of fragrance? Gain knowledge about the perfumer’s work?<BR><BR> 
If so our trainings are designed for you! You’ll have the opportunity to work with our Olfactorium® which is a compact version of a Perfumer’s Palette and contains 48 raw materials and fragrances.<BR><BR> 
We currently propose 2 trainings depending on your needs and interests:<BR><BR>
-          The Perfumer Palette (3 hours): an introductory session to measure your olfactory abilities and acquire methods for memorizing odors.
<BR><BR>-          Introduction to Technique and Language of Perfumery (2days): an introduction to the universe of perfume from raw materials to fragrance classification.
 <BR><BR>
Please feel free to contact me for more information. I’ll give you with pleasure the next sessions’ dates and I can send you detailed information. 
 <BR><BR>
My name is Laura, you can reach me at (212) 686-4135 or <a href='mailto:laura@cinquiemesens.com'>laura@cinquiemesens.com</a>.
 <BR><BR>
I hope to share with you a nice perfumed experience!
 <BR><BR>
Kind regards.
 <BR><BR>
Laura</blockquote>]]></content><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://wouldsmellassweet.blog-city.com/cinquieme_sens.htm"/><dc:creator>Kathy</dc:creator><author><name>Kathy</name></author><updated>2009-06-18T05:00:00Z</updated><published>2009-06-18T05:00:00Z</published></entry></feed>