If I were to be giving out awards for the most impressively presented parcel I have received to date, DarkMatterTrinkets would be in the top running as their vintage themed ephemera stole the day and my heart when I opened my boxes containing a trio of lovely darkness that fit my every mood and wardrobe choice. This shop knows how to impress and create a dazzling display. Here's a closer look at my 3 necklaces and one surprise earring set that harkens back to a fascinating and terrifying fashion trend. Mina, eat your heart out. This creation is the one that first caught my eye and initiated the lust for all the sparkly necklaces from this awesome little shop (and idea for a custom future piece; stellar customer service I must mention as well). This necklace is so aptly named as the faceted stones are the shades of drops of blood and the main jewel glows with intensity in the light; out of the 3 I purchased the red stones are the heaviest feeling in the hand but you'll forget you are wearing them when you don them and transform in mood and character. Just as all the other creations they frame the neck very becomingly. Needless to say, I shall return for more! Over the moon and to the stars about this enchanting little shop and my new jewellery pieces! Each one beautifully frames the neck whilst telling a different story and transports me to a treasured era or film genre. The onyx stone piece is the middle weight-wise of the 3 necklaces and has me feeling like I'm starring in a Film Noir feature, just as the rest of my purchases the necklace came lightning fast and was gorgeously presented with little themed extras and hand-painted trinkets. What a find. The pearl necklace is the lightest out of all 3, but still stuns and garners attention. For me, this is the ultimate late Victorian to Edwardian lady's choice from her jewellery casket, it goes with so many various stones and clothing options. It also takes a lovely photo. These "Guillotine Chic" ear drops very closely resemble commemorative jewellery worn in the 18th century during the French Revolution. I love how these earrings out of all my recent jewellery purchases garnered the most compliments and chances to unleash my knowledge of morbid history upon the curious public. You can't go wrong with prettly tinkling trinkets of death, haha. DarkMatterTrinkets It's funny where late night jewellery cravings will lead you and for my next quest I wanted a statement earring set with a distinct vintage flair and I certainly got just that in lightning quick time. These dramatic earrings are stunning, they draw the eye and flatter the neck and asymmetrical face. The backs are cut-out so the only weight is felt toward the detailed lily motif and even that slight pull is easily forgotten as these drops are very comfortable and I love how the winds sing through these earrings when gusts hit them just right. These were my first taste of stepping into my own in 2021 and realizing some new things about myself and my "perfect year/transformation" that was heralded in my birth chart (it has been a wild ride since last summer and my appearance and overall aesthetic has drastically changed) and I couldn't be more pleased with this whole order and experience (NomadicMoonArts' customer service is exceptional as well, don't be afraid to message them with any questions) from this enchanting little shop and I'll definitely be back for more unique designs! Judge me as you will but for some reason this dark little heart was drawn to shades of blush-pink and peach last spring and summer and I was on the hunt for baubles from another era (to be more specific camphor glass jewellery) for an upcoming wedding (sigh, yes I came out of the shadows and attended a wedding; I know right? *hiss* haha). One late night search and I found myself at the door of BoxerLovingLady/SweetVirgil'sVintage (same shop owner) and coveting these etched glass earrings dating back to the 1920s. These were my impressions of this little colourful detour of style. My gorgeous antique earrings arrived ahead of time for the event which was a spot of luck because after promptly opening the parcel an earring fell to the floor and cracked (YES, they are real glass and extremely fragile in that way). I messaged the owner in the hopes I could purchase a new earring in time for the wedding the following week and I was elated that she offered to replace it for free so stellar customer service. When it comes to the design, these blush-pink earrings catch the sun, dance along the neckline and I received several compliments on them that afternoon and since then. They have become a go-to pair of delicate jewellery when I want to step out with just a touch more vintage flair and yes, they go with everything even my tried and true black and dark purple and greens that dominates my wardrobe. They look right at home on my vanity table and I'm officially a collector of camphor glass trinkets now. I would say this detour was amusing and I'm quite content at the end of the night. Highly recommend a look. BoxerLovingLady and SweetVirgil'sVintage FEATURED: Art & Accents (Luke Adams Glass Blowing Studio) Pumpkin, pumpkin La-da-da-da-da-da3/30/2022
Indie Artists will never fail to amaze me with the talents they share with the world, they really can do and create anything. I'm also in awe of how many nifty shops I have found because of social media (I guess a necessary evil) as I became aware of the existence of glass blown pumpkins and Luke Adams Glass Blowing Studio all in one click and off I went into another collection and obsession. I admit I was overwhelmed with all the coloured swirls and tones that caught the light listed on the website, every pumpkin wanted to come home to me but when I saw the black and white design "This is Halloween" started playing in my head and that was it. ORDERED, haha! My (first) pumpkin arrived right in the middle of a particularly nasty mercury retrograde (this was also the week my antique glass earring from another mentioned shop fell and cracked straight from the mail, another parcel from another shop was temporarily lost; not a good week) and was sadly cracked upon unwrapping. I thought it added character to the pumpkin (I wanted this decoration for my work desk) but I was encouraged to email photos to the company to see if I could either fix it with some type of glue or if they could suggest a home solution, unlike box stores, this shop immediately apologized for the crack and offered to send out a new glass pumpkin for no charge! Just blown away by how indie shops handle these types of situations and treat their customers. My new pumpkin arrived less than a week later (I had already taken in my cracked one into work and surrounded it in little twinkling fairy lights for effect, haha) and it held no cracks/damage and had this lovely rosey-mauve hue at the bottom when the light hit it just right and it oddly matched my bedroom walls so that's where that beauty lives on top of my antique wardrobe glowing with the light from the window and somehow playing with two of my favourite seasons in the shaped glass as I stare at it. These pumpkins really are art and I can't help myself to add to this collection, that fairytale pumpkin is currently calling my name and so is the dark purple one and so is...*music starts playing* Pumpkin, pumpkin you're going to kill me, la-la-la. I'm in trouble, haha. Luke Adams Glass Blowing Studio Bongo Poppy Cake (Delicious, lemon poppy seed cake, drowned in an unhealthy dose of lightly spiced cream cheese icing dripping all over it) Akin to cutting out a thick slice of moist lemon cake with a spread of cream cheese icing and taking that first heavenly sniff before devouring all in sight. The lemon is perfectly balanced with the vanilla cake (with a hint of cardamom and additional grated spice) and I get about 5 hours of waltzing about with uninterrupted baking divinity before it fades to a faint lemon peel with sweet cream cheese and a hidden marshmallow scent. I also own Bongo Poppy Cake in the hair detangler and I notice very little in scent difference, they both smell luscious although the hair detangler lasts a full day on me and I enjoy imagining I am swanning about with a tower of lemon cake balanced in my curled bouffant for the night. Lemon Curd and Coconut Cream (Lemon curd and coconut cream with graham crust) Being a recent convert to the taste of toasted coconut in both culinary and fragrance forms, I must say, I completely understand the myriad of positive reviews on this perfume and I want to gnaw my wrists, haha. This is the real deal of realistic dessert fragrances and out of all the oils I show off at work, Lemon Curd and Coconut Cream is a standout winner every time as I watch with amusement as coworkers with twirling eyes desperately seek out a Tupperware Container of lemon and coconut cream piet throughout the night and ask "Who brought in dessert and is hiding it?" every time they walk past my desk after midnight, haha. Each note is perfectly balanced and hits the nose creating the ultimate compliment of making me want to bake up a storm on a sunny spring morning with a newfound ingredient. For longevity, this goes on to baffle and tantalize the hungry masses for 15 hours with a huge throw reaching across several depts. Peches Melba (Juicy ripe peaches with a teeny squeeze of lemon, and fresh raspberry topped vanilla bean ice cream) One of my favourite novels mentions a Peche Melba dessert and this perfume captures that scene beautifully with exquisite realistic cold peaches, sweet raspberries and an addictive vanilla bean ice cream base served in an crystal dish or rather with every wave of the wrist. It's a special immersive experience that I can enjoy anytime and think of beloved characters with dainty spoon poised to indulge in such a lovely ritzy choice from the menu. Perfect for spring weather and day dreaming. Lilac and Hyacinths (Scent Description: Bloom open your day with this beautiful & fresh scent of Lilacs and Hyacinths) Exactly as it says on the tin, it's like covering yourself in a lavish spread of lilac and hyacinth blooms! The scent is heavier in the perfume and somehow delicate in the dusting powder form but very noticeable and gorgeous. Still one of my top picks for a fresh from the garden lilac and hyacinth marriage in a bottle. I hope it returns this year so I can stock up on well everything I can in this heavenly fragrance. Longevity varies with a heavy workout it fades at 6 hours and if I am just swanning about 10 hours. Free Sample: Lychee Grapefruit and Rose (the complete notes still remain an elusive mystery even a year later) To me, this perfume presents as a stunning seductive enigma to the nose and the senses with an opening of tart sparkling summertime fruits that quickly transitions to a jammy rose nectar with an accompaniment of "dirty" hidden tuberose and a dry down of sandalwood, amber, oud and a drop of honey. It's an olfactory masterpiece that surprises and delights you every time it is worn and allows the wearer to unleash their inner prowl and Summertime Lilith. Lychee Grapefruit and Rose makes me want to dramatically flop back on a leopard print devan wearing nothing but a smile and huff my wrists and curls while being painted. It's THAT type of perfume. This is how I remember the summer of 2021. Brava! *As soon as the full sized was available I purchased a full bottle. MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean/Mooscents Nui Cobalt Designs *Reviews composed in 2021 That snappy Gemini season energy finally kicked in for me today (and my nose is finally healed albeit a bit crooked but functioning after a nasty fall- gotta love the natural grace of a Cancer, haha) and I bring to you long-overdue ramblings from one of my favourite houses of fragrance (Many thanks to Josh and Forest at Nui Cobalt Designs for allowing me to sample and be reunited with the following fragrances). Without further ado... Kazzate: Tiramisu (The beloved Italian classic: golden vanilla lady-fingers infused with espresso and Marsala wine, then layered with sweet mascarpone, and finished with a fine dusting of cocoa. Wear when you need to slow down and restore calm. It’s a uniquely grounding and stabilizing blend.) A textbook rendering of a classic decadent dessert magically smooshed into a vial. One wave of the applicator wand and then huff of the wrist and you immediately recognize the iconic dessert with layers of espresso drenched buttery lady-fingers (along with a hint of booziness of wine; this is an adult indulgence after all), sweet whipped cream mixed with mascarpone and a dusting of cocoa powder for that familiar bitter chocolate finish of a picture-perfect Tiramisu! There is also a drop of Nui's superb honey hiding in the espresso dipped syrup lady-fingers and the dry down reminds me of my beloved Malarkey from last year's lineup with the egg whipped cream. Mmm, one dab and you are in heaven with Kazzate and on me, this perfume lasts well into the next day bringing my nose to my wrist for one more huff and rumble of my stomach throughout the night. Pish-Tosh: Passionfruit Custard Tart (A bright, tropical tang complements smooth vanilla custard cradled in classical shortbread crust. Wear for protection against interpersonal drama and discord. It instantly conjures a sunnier disposition and enchants any room with the spirit of levity.) As it says on the tin, a bright tropical fruit evenly balanced vanilla dessert with a non-soggy bottomed shortbread crust fragrance. Passionfruit and the word Pish-Tosh are such underused stars of ingredients in perfumery and everyday vocabulary, Nui Cobalt is here to correct that! On me, there is another fruit possibly apricot mixed with the beautiful tartness of the passionfruit, plum and vanilla adding just a bit of more grounding element and again I smell a drop of Nui Cobalt's trademark spring honey at the base with the buttery shortbread. Just superb! For longevity, Pish-Tosh (I love saying that) goes on to enchant and brighten my mood for a full 8 to 10 hours and fades down to crumbly shortbread biscuit finish with a hint of lemon zest like in Hogwash from last years menu. Napping in a Flower (As they go about their days, bees are sometimes known to fall asleep inside the blossoms from which they take their nectar. Few things are cuter than a fuzzy little bee booty poking out of the petals with their tiny snoring snoots full of pollen. Tender ripe apricot, Bulgarian lavender, spiced summer honey, plum blossom, daylily, honeysuckle, and ylang. Wear this relaxing scent to unwind and decompress. It’s particularly supportive of deep and rejuvenating sleep.) One of the most endearing names and descriptions of a perfume this fragrance showcases all of Nui Cobalt's strengths from the realistic dreamy lavender in the vial that translates the same on the skin to the gorgeous florals and fruits to the vanilla sweetness of the ylang and of course the legendary honey that is kissed with a dusting of spice. It's surprisingly uplifting and but yet morphs somehow to a pleasant sleep promised scent potion that calls for one more huff as drift off. Like the brightness of sunshine on flowers and pollen before the blessed lull of dreams claims you. Aptly named. Preposterous! Strawberry Shortcake (Sun-ripened strawberries are sliced fresh over soft vanilla cake and topped with a scant teaspoon of whipped cream. Wear to dispel stress and anxiety. It serves to ease the mind and soothe the spirit.) There is always that one dessert or perfume which everyone else around adores but unfortunately doesn't work with your palate or nose for whatever reason and sadly Preposterous! was that one blend for me. I need to finally admit to myself that even though this perfume is phenomenal in the vial capturing the unmistakable aroma of freshly sliced homegrown strawberries (complete with pips!) dipped in cream on my skin this oil oddly morphs to strawberry hair conditioner with vanilla cake and amplifies with intensity for far too long. This one isn't for me and I envy all those who had the same experience in the vial to their skin. Oh well, I still plan to use every last drop in a whipped soap deep hair treatment this summer. *Please remember everyone's skin chemistry is different and what one note does on my skin will not happen on someone else or vice versa. That's the magic of perfume oils. If a blend intrigues you, try it. You never know what you will love unless you sample the unknown. Nephophilia 2.0 : Love of Clouds (The love of clouds.A fluffy melange of pink cotton candy, ivory cashmere, silk tree blossoms, blush suede, and steamed vanilla. Wear this playful scent to turn heads and lift spirits.) It started with a kiss of coconut from Nui Cobalt then banana and now cotton candy; there is no going back nor do I want to. This house of fragrance can make me fall in love with every note I thought I despised and should avoid like the plague. Here we have the epitome of sweet elegance and romance, it indeed smells of what you could only imagine the inside of a cloud lit by the dying rays of the sun would surround you in fragrance wise. The cotton candy is the star of this oil but it is transformed into a crystalline vanilla with a lick of creamy seductive suede that is a million miles from anything resembling a pre-teen noxious fug. This is how you do cotton candy scents and elevate it to the troposphere! For those familiar with Nui Cobalt's masterpiece Starlight & Spidersilk as well as the Hollywood Royalty quality in Ailurophilia, meet their love child. Continuing thoughts: I was fortunate enough to purchase the original variation of Nephophilia and then was kindly sent the second on request for this review and I must say I only notice the slightest difference between the two. Both are stunning, however personally I love the steamed vanilla background aroma in Nephophilia 1.0 that wafts over my senses and takes to my skin chemistry. I still adore both and hope Nephophilia becomes a permanent catalogue option. Everyone needs to try this beauty especially if you think you can never love a cotton candy scent! Chionophilia: Love of Snow (The love of snow.A cool blend of cotton flower, marzipan, Nui’s inscrutable Cold accord, coconut flakes, frosted fir, whipped white honey, and copal. Wear for comfort, joy, and to nurture loving connection.) Other noses have commented that Chionophilia is a sister scent to the smash blend known to those in the indie realm as Snow Cat and even Mauna Kea or Arctic Fox and from the applicator wand I must agree with those comments, however, on my skin Chionophilia morphs after a few moments on my skin to an amplified soapy venture I wasn't expecting and I believe the culprit of that transformation is the copal swirling with the cotton flower. Sadly this isn't a love for me and I'll keep my workplace gems Snow Cat and Mauna Kea and find another scented use for Chinophilia. *Please remember everyone's skin chemistry is different and what one note does on my skin will not happen on someone else or vice versa. That's the magic of perfume oils. If a blend intrigues you, try it. You never know what you will love unless you sample the unknown. Arch Nemesis (The formidable foe, reflection of the Shadow Self. A fiery blend of bayberry bark, clove bud, pipe tobacco, ginger root, coriander, pinyon pine, and tart cherry wine. Wear to invoke your primal force and ferocity.) This is a swirling black and red slashed cape with a pine sigil embossed on the breast of a villain of the north exiting a burning dining hall whilst dramatic music pounds in the background. This is the scent of one of the betrayers at the iconic Red Wedding scene from A Song of Ice and Fire and I absolutely adore this perfume. It's charged and is indeed has a primal element to it. There is also a magnetic seductive quality to Arch Nemesis which only makes sense if you stop to think- everyone secretly loves and falls for a villain in the end. Cobalt Druid: Uncrossing (Banish the bad vibes with this time-honored Conjure blend for cleansing and purification. Blue vervain, white sage, and pungent bay leaves are woven into a delicate bouquet of young lavender and fresh, dewy rose.) On application I'm greeted by a vase of green stemmed roses in a vase somehow thriving in sparkling seawater then a dreamy lavender emerges along with sage and bay leaves. It's a beautiful mystical blend that I can't stop huffing. In many ways, Uncrossing reminds me of another of my top favourites from Nui Cobalt called Anthophilia and even my personal custom fragrance made by Forest. I get the same realistic nectar of roses, freshly snipped stems, and aquatic elements from a crystal vase. Uncrossing is more mysterious than those mentioned other scent potions and somehow calls out to all my water placements in my chart at the same time. Cobalt Druid: Seduction (A boldly sensual blend for enticement and attraction. Opulent flowers, piquant cloves, warm scarlet musk and hoodoo roots tangled in a potion of simmering vanilla.) This one is for all those who fell under the spell of Sultry, sadly I only liked Sultry and have the same reaction to this sibling fragrance. Very exotic, powerful and I respect the magic behind this oil but I don't think I could wear this outside the house and prefer Charisma Bonus, Love or Seduced by Spidersilk to get the same effect for myself and attention with the alluring vanilla, musk, and floral aspects. Cobalt Druid: Peace (A gentle blend to instill a sense of calm and tranquility. Bulgarian lavender and honey are tucked into a soft bed of cooling clary sage and meditative sandalwood.) This a lulling sweet lullaby of a fragrance that works wonders whether day or night. I'm always in awe of the mysterious properties of Nui Cobalt's scent potion oils, and Peace is another choice pick for that category. The honey is lovely alongside the realistic lavender buds and I can't recommend enough this shop's creamy sandalwood accord that always elevates every blend it touches. I could bathe in Peace and happily drift far away. Athena Drakaina: The She-Dragon (The She-Dragon.An ebon altar swathed in sacred smoke, dragon’s blood resin, spiced pomegranate, black leather accord, bay laurel leaves, hibiscus flower, nocturnal musk, and agarwood. Wear to invoke Her sacred ferocity and mete out swift justice.) This shop does some amazing things with underappreciated notes and here pomegranate is cast as the main lead and shows off beautifully with the hibiscus and naughty leather. Although named for the goddess of wisdom who has many sides, I can't help but think of Persephone in dark battle armor back from the underworld when I smell this oil, it's an incredible balance of duality of sweetness and darkness. A reminder to never underestimate anyone. Cobalt Druid: Love (Intimacy in a bottle. A blend to enhance your natural magnetism and power to forge passionate connections. The softest sugared rose dances with resplendent vanilla in flickering candlelight.) A Pre-Raphaelite painting in a bottle. Somedays you just need to smell elegant and from a painting or stained glass window and that's exactly what I receive and feel like when I dab on Love. This is a gorgeous blend with soft vintage rose, downy powder and realistic sweet singed creamy beeswax candle wax hiding in the background. Just magnificent! Brava! Malarkey: Bread & Butter Pudding (A comforting scent to ease your mind and sooth your nerves after dealing with dishonest people. Twice-baked slices of soft white bread, salted butter, rich vanilla custard with a modest sprinkle of nutmeg and cinnamon.) When Malarkey melds with my chemistry it morphs to spiced bread pudding with realistic thick vanilla custard and the distinct aroma of freshly prepared french toast but the vanilla custard and light cinnamon stand out the most. Hours later and I get a creamy crumbly nutmeg and a richer vanilla base (and I swear a drop of warm honey). It's something else and a tribute to British culinary traditions and old-fashioned baking secrets. Malarkey is never sharp, overly sweet or spicy, waxy or artificial smelling and just like Poppycock, it's perfectly executed. I always try to envision what the food from one my all-time favourite cinematic treasures would smell like and Malarkey is what I would be drinking if I were invited to attend the lost boys' dinner from HOOK. It's straight out of my dreams as this is happy thoughts and warm hugs. [says with nose to wrist] It's Bangarang. Nui Cobalt Designs There are 2 shops to explore both owned by the same amazing jewellery artist. BijouxPassionParis & PearlManiac Call it a morbid fixation or need to echo the past in some unique way but I went on a determined hunt last year to find replicas of certain jewellery pieces I associate with my favourite misunderstood figures to study from history and that odd venture landed me at the art nouveau and art deco decorated door of BijouxPassionParis on ETSY (they shortly after showing a sneak peek of this specific design opened a second storefront called PearlManiac which I was directed to for ordering). Needless to say I'm over the moon with this little shop's customer service, TAT (they shipped across the way from France) and quality. The owner was very sweet and patient with my MANY enthusiastic questions, the parcel arrived ahead of time and my earrings are everything I have been dreaming of seeing on my vanity table and wearing. The pearls are perfectly sized and even though button shaped they are matched nicely with no cracks or flaws, the design is extremely comfortable to wear (I even forget I have them on at different times of the night and I love the secure backings, dare I say I prefer this flat design versus a simple dangle which the Empress wore) and best of all, these pearl earrings set off any outfit I don with the right amount of little sparkle and glitz from a beloved era of read about. I don't want to take these baubles off and I eagerly add more styles to my basket from both shops with every passing day to join these lovely earrings in my jewellery casket. What do you think? I personally think I couldn't get any closer to the actual design or find a more perfect fit for myself, they are perfect! Marshmallow (Marshmallow) Exactly as it says on the tin, this is comforting sugary pillows that morph to a realistic toasted finish; excellent for sleep and layering with other oils. Longevity is about 4 to 6 hours with a noticeable throw that catches the attention of those with a discerning sweet tooth. Daffodil (This fragrance accord is designed to smell of Daffodils- reminiscent of jasmine, geranium, and honeysuckle with hints of vanilla and greenery) Close your eyes and picture the perfect spring morning. The robins and starlings are merrily chirping and chortling whilst the rhythmic coos of mourning doves completes a dawn symphony. You can feel the warm sunshine touch your cheeks and the light creates an enveloping impression of bright golds. You are facing a garden of memories and the distinct aroma of little star-shaped jasmine beckon you to come closer and inhale deeply (no muddling associations with soap will disrupt this bucolic scene, I promise) it's such a lovely bouquet orbiting dew-kissed daffodils. Now open your eyes, you are wearing a rarity in the perfume world- a true daffodil fragrance! Bravo, Redwood Alchemy! This is such an uplifting and beautifully intoxicating oil. A White Whale has been found! Labdanum (no notes listed) A single note of dark resins that curiously fizz and bubble on application then dry down to a woody almost boozy amber finish. Another excellent oil for layering and experimenting with other notes. Call Girl (Tobacco, Skin Musk, Roses) Roses can come in many forms from soapy to downright slinky and scandalous and if you are looking for the latter, you have to get ahold of Call Girl because this is an oh so naughty but refined tobacco and rose fragrance. I definitely smell Bulgarian Roses and there is something deeper underneath adding another overlay of the rose variety and true to the description on the website I am getting the unmistakable smudge of expensive lipstick or creamy wax violets (however you wish to interpret them). I know this is supposed to tell the scent story of a night encounter in a seedy motel but I can't help but think of a classy well sought after mistress in the 19th-century Austrian or Russian court. It's a bit exotic in ways with the rose petals and the stately tobacco combined with the kiss of violet and silky skin musk elevates this call girl to dame d'honneur! Bravo Redwood! Redwood Alchemy *Review composed in 2021 The stars decided to shine a little luck my way at the end of November 2020 into February 2021 as I won several giveaways on social media. This was my last and my head is still swimming from these amazing opportunities and generous indie shops. Velvet & Sweetpea's Purrfumery (having quite possibly the most adorable theme and elegantly done aesthetic I have ever encountered and this natural perfumery shop creates lux fragrant products with rare ingredients sourced from all over the world but also gives back to different funds and foundations; their most recent raise awareness project is for the endangered Pangolin). Luminous Lemurs Solid Perfume (Gathered Notes: Blood Orange, Ylang Ylang, Madagascar Vanilla, Egyptian Carnation, Clove, Nutmeg, Sandalwood and Cinnamon) Solid perfumes are a new medium for me to explore and I found myself reapplying several times all over in fascination as every note and application point morphed and I guess I amplify certain notes. Short assessment, Luminous Lemurs smells like a tropical and exotic sister scent of Alkemia's Trick or Treat. The blood orange opens the experience then slowly changes over to a spiced sweet banana-like fragrance coming from the ylang ylang then a distinct creamy carnation heart appears. The woody spices (even with a hint of hidden liquorice) and romantic vanilla finish out the 3 and half hours and I can see why this fragrance won so many awards. *Reviews composed in 2021 Some love a glass of good strong wine, some appreciate a solitary moment of relaxing music and some us love a fine atmospheric perfume (to drift off to restive sleep or read with). I fall into that final class and did I come across an immersive travel journal of scents to recommend from L'AVENTURA Perfumes. *Full disclosure: These fragrances were sent not for a review but as a generous "paying it forward" sweet act. I was not asked to supply any feedback, however, once I tried one vial I knew this little shop in New Mexico with advertised "uncommon fragrances" was one to recommend! All the blends had quite the noticeable throw and exceptional longevity (the longest being The Faraway (with Cotillion at a close second) which lasted 12 hours and Mothlight and Sanctuary at an equally impressive 8 to 9 hours). The perfumes lasted considerably longer in my hair and on my clothes. These were my second experience with Eau de Parfums and for anyone curious as I was- Yes, EdP blends soften with a bit of patient aging similar to perfume dab on oils. Packaging and Presentation: I was sent the Discovery Collection sample pack and the fragrances are in this clever packet that resembles a classier version of a library card stamp list, inside is an array of uncapped spray Eau de Parfum vials and each perfume is announced first with a snazzy mini scent list card and then a matching font style to each vial. I'm a shameless fiend for chic and eye-catching packaging and this little indie ticked that box. Scents (in order of the presented card):
Lions in the Library (Labdanum, bitter orange, old books, cistus, cashmeran, *civet- synthetic) On opening, the bitter orange is noticeable with a sweet-spicy nuance that gently gives way to an exotic scene of ancient leather-bound tomes of knowledge, dried scrolls of a lifetime of collecting the scent of the various beeswaxed polished woods constructing the shelves that hold all these manuscripts and dusty words. I'm not sure if it's the fantastic (well needed) intellectual hangover of speaking to this scent artist about different genres of literature (specifically settling on a wonderful discussion on the A Song of Ice and Fire series; her studio is in Santa Fe, New Mexico after all) swaying this association, but Lions in the Library makes me think of the perfect Citadel note representation and the scent of the home to the order of the maesters (I may be reading the morphing bitter orange and hidden dark honey as polished steel and iron for the fancy but it conjures the idea of forged metal under the old and new wood built to accommodate all the words and knowledge of the Seven Kingdoms). It's meditative and sweeping atmospheric I wasn't expecting. It's marvellous for a sleep scent potion and I'm adding Lions in the Libary (as a Lannister supporter I must say the name is perfect!) to my evocative reading list to wear when The Winds of Winter debuts. Sanctuary (Palo Santo, char, amber, holy bourbon, benzoin, costus) One spritz and I'm attending a ritualistic bonfire and fascinating service deep in an undisclosed location staring up at the sky waiting for mysteries of the universe to open up. I've never been to a true desert climate but this is how I imagine a night scene in the desert to smell like, it's dusty dirty but "cleansing to the mind and spirit" as well. There is something about Palo Santo and smoke that touches some portion of my frazzled brain and forces it to settle and relax and seek out unique trivia when I smell it and Sanctuary is just that, a sanctuary of the self and exploration to new subjects. The Faraway (Desert Sage, juniper, salt cedar, sedge grass, warm sandstone) Now I don't know the exact inspirations for all the available catalogue fragrances but I do know that The Faraway is an ode to Georgia O'Keeffe and her one specific painting. I'm afraid I am deficient in this area of culture and I can't compare the strokes of shading and composition of the notes to the painting (hopefully someone reading could try this fragrance and provide that type of write up someday soon). I can, however, tell everyone The Faraway takes me back to fossil hunting and rock identifying in the hot summer sun as a child with my satchel of cobbled together paleotologist tools borrowed from my grandparents' garage and makeup brushes, and this perfume is another impressive atmospheric with salted dusty earth and lush greenery and also another relaxing blend to receive pleasant dreams with. Cotillion (Orange blossom, jasmin, carnation, spanish moss, tobacco, clipped lawn) Cotillion is a floral citrus spiced venture to the lawns of Gatsby's Mansion, it's a joyous celebration that spares no expense or gives any apologies for the frivolity and supplied atmosphere (if you adore rich florals this one is for you). The dry down is a realistic sophisticated tobacco fougere finishing off this unexpected romantic ode to the "lost generation" and excess of the roaring 1920s. This was my starred favourite. Mothlight (Lemon, pink peppercorn, ambrette seed, snuffed candle, sandalwood, musks) No surprise that a rarely assembled list of notes equals one extraordinary scent experience. Mothlight is the perfect name for this perfume as it smells like a glowing light in a darkened loft and I must applaud when L'AVENTURA lists a note such as "snuffed candle" this isn't a poetic interpretation, there is an actual realistic snuffed candle aroma serving as the backdrop with a creamy sandalwood. When I let my mind wander, I think of painting studios of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood with shadows and soft cloth draping a figure standing still for hours with only the sounds of a slick brush touching across a canvas and the gentle plinking of a spirit-message carrying moth breaking the silence. Now that's scent art! L'AVENTURA *Reviews composed in 2021 Like many others, I consider the brilliant scent artist of MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean/Mooscents to be the Willy Wonka of the Indie realm and forgive me if I make the comparison to feeling like little Charlie Bucket stepping behind the gates of a world of scent whimsy and imaginative confections as I was offered to explore perfumes from different releases. This was a dream opportunity as MoonaLisa was my introduction to heavenly gourmand fragrances with The Rumpkin! years ago and as I unwrapped every decorated vial I sampled this past month, I discovered new fantastic facets of different fruits, lush florals, seasonal specials and complex olfactory ingredients that continue to tantalize and mystify every time I wave my wrist. These oils were pure magic and I couldn't think of a better place that would be curious to follow along and relive a bit of childhood and captured olfactory alchemy. Let's step behind the gates and visit a real music-maker... *Full Disclosure: These vials were sent for honest reviews 🍰🥧🍭The Cake and Pie Room On entry, we are greeted by a vast sprawling landscape of whipped delights ranging from the traditional to the fanciful. Buttercream mountains reach the ceilings and moist sponge cake and piecrusts serve as the foundations we dance across and let our noses guide us to nuanced fruits and new candied obsessions with a bewitching quality... Bongo Poppy Cake (Delicious, lemon poppy seed cake, drowned in an unhealthy dose of lightly spiced cream cheese icing dripping all over it) Akin to cutting out a thick slice of moist lemon cake with a spread of cream cheese icing and taking that first heavenly sniff before devouring all in sight. The lemon is perfectly balanced with the vanilla cake (with a hint of cardamom and additional grated spice) and I get about 5 hours of waltzing about with uninterrupted baking divinity before it fades to a faint lemon peel with sweet cream cheese and a hidden marshmallow scent. I also own Bongo Poppy Cake in the hair detangler and I notice very little in scent difference, they both smell luscious although the hair detangler lasts a full day on me and I enjoy imagining I am swanning about with a tower of lemon cake balanced in my curled bouffant for the night. Where's My Pie (Scented over the top with everything but the kitchen sink! Buttery, flaky pie crust, cinnamon, pumpkin, carrot, caramel, clove, nutmeg, whipped cream and pecan just to name a few) Everyone may be running in the direction of the spring and summer treats but my nose could happily stay in the gooey spiced corner that is set up with Where's My Pie. As an avid baker, I can attest this smells like a spread of several pies and nutty delicacies with even a crusty buttery bread pudding rolled on the side. It may all sound tooth-achingly sweet but it's a brilliantly balanced blend and is a comforting mashup of autumnal, winter and even early spring pastries with a slice of cream cheese topped carrot cake peeking out. I'm marking Where's My Pie down for everything this upcoming fall. Lemon Curd and Coconut Cream (Lemon curd and coconut cream with graham crust) Being a recent convert to the taste of toasted coconut in both culinary and fragrance forms, I must say, I completely understand the myriad of positive reviews on this perfume and I want to gnaw on my wrists. This is the real deal of realistic dessert fragrances and out of all the oils I showed off at work, Lemon Curd and Coconut Cream was the winner with my coworkers as I had a most entertaining night sitting back and watching others with twirling eyes looking for a Tupperware container of lemon and coconut cream pie throughout the night when they walked past my desk and hearing "Who brought in dessert and is hiding it?" several times after midnight. Each note is perfectly balanced and hits the nose creating the ultimate compliment of making me want to bake up a storm on a sunny spring morning with a newfound ingredient. For longevity, this one went on to baffle and tantalize those around me (this oil has a huge throw) for 15 hours. I will be going after this blend this upcoming release in choice products for home and of course at work (hehe). Rosewater & Angel Food Cake (Fluffy white sponge cake with signature Almond extract and rich fragrant coconut with an added addition of a rose water syrup note.) Angel Food Cake is a special scent in my household as my late grandparents whipped up a specific recipe every sunday family gathering and this is indeed a slice of traditional fluffy Angel Food Cake with a shaved coconut and rosewater syrup, it bouncy and light and surprisingly stays close to the skin. Out of all the vials, I tried Rosewater & Angel Food Cake was the softest even with the almond extract and coconut coming in contact with my skin chemistry that loves to amp those two notes. This would be a nice layering option with possibly something from "the strawberry waterfall" that we will visit in a bit. Chocolate Covered Cherries (aka Cherry Cordial: Just like the candy! Chocolate covered cherry candy with liquor in it) Speaking of nostalgic scents, here's a box of Queen Anne Chocolate Cordial Cherries bottled up to sweep me away to my great-grandmother's house! This is Moona's signature milk chocolate coating a candied cherry, it's delicious and comforting at the same time. For longevity, Chocolate Covered Cherries taps out at 8 hours and stays somewhat close but still manages to cast about a low noticeable throw. The inside of the candy with the cherry stands out to my nose hours later with the amazing chocolate fading to that distinct aroma of the bottom of an empty candy box sans the waxiness, it's the sweet ghostly kiss of cocoa! Befana (Warm crusty baked bread, doused with butter and dripping with honey and traditional spices of cinnamon and clove.) This ode to the benevolent old woman of Italian folklore who visits children with gifts and is said to have housed the three wise men is full of surprises as instead of listed bread, I smell the unmistakable aroma of lemon and orange peel madeleine cookies! The outside holds that slight buttery crispy crunch of waiting fruit then that fluffy inside shell wafts about, it's lovely and lasts several hours which is impressive with anything citrus on my skin. I always associate madeleine cookies with springtime tea-parties or mini pastel draped soirées and Befana is invited for those events. Sugar Rum Cherry (Sugared Vanilla Bourbon rummed Cherries) Mmm this is a marriage of Snow Ice to the inside of Chocolate Covered Cherries, it's warm fruit and buttery thick cream with a surprise boozy finish. This is elevated somehow from simply candy sweet to an elegant (even a bit naughty as it morphs on the skin) olfactory confection and I'm pleased to jot down, Sugar Rum Cherry loves my skin. I bet this one would be incredible in the hair conditioner as you dance and sing out of key to "Pour Some Sugar On Me" in the shower. Caramel Cardamon Affogato (Indulge in a deep Vanilla Bourbon Musk with hot, steamy cocoa, and Cafe Macchiato, drizzled in rich caramel, and Vanilla sugared milk, spiced perfectly with cardamon and nutmeg.) Just like the ultra-soothing and blanking effect Where's My Pie has upon my senses, Carmel Cardamom Affogato is one blend I could wrap myself in and forget the cold world with. This is a rich inviting vanilla and foamy macchiato and spiced cake aroma that beguiles the nose and amplifies the cosy factor of autumnal or winter selections then leaves you with an unexpected honeyed steamed milk note 6 hours later that then lasts an additional 8 hours and sees you off to dreamland. Mmm, I'm a shameless spice fiend and I don't care who knows it. Absolutely sublime! I must grab this fragrance in a bath option this next winter. 🍓🌠🌈The Strawberry WaterfallAs your eyes scan the horizon you notice a wonder of a crystal-faceted jar that catches the light ever so brilliantly be tilted on its side and pipped bright pink and red sweet jam spreads thickly across a bed of powdered fried dough, fluffy marshmallow and spangled rainbow spectrums of light bounce off to beckon you closer. I promise you no artificial aromas will offend, only pure homemade goodness... Jingle Jelly Donuts (The irresistible scent of sugary fried dough, sweet vanilla, and gobs of oozing strawberry jam) 2021 is shaping up to be the year of the scrumdiddlyumptious strawberry hunt for myself as when I first spritzed my locks with the hair detangler in Jingle Jelly Donuts, the insatiable pursuit was on and when asked what I would love to try from this enchanting house of fragrance, I wanted ALL the strawberries. This one is homemade strawberry jam inside a shell of dough and drizzled in warm vanilla glaze with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. No guilt, no calories just an addictive series of ingredients that is hard to stop spritzing and slathering. Between the hair detangler and the perfume oil, the vanilla glaze is more prominent in my curls with the dark strawberry jam while my skin amps the powdered sugared dough with the photo-realistic jam as a middle note. No matter where I huff, I'm in love. Strawberry Marshmallow (Bursting fruity strawberry goodness married with ooey marshmallow cream, a match made in heaven) And now we come to admittedly one of my favourite vials from the whole tour, as this is exactly like holding a fresh strawberry by the green stem and dipping it into a bowl of marshmallow cream, taking a bite letting the juice run down your chin with childish glee then going directly back for a more full dunk. As with Jingle Jelly Donuts, Strawberry Marshmallow has changed everything I thought about strawberry perfumes. No artificial candy here or recollections of cupcake dolls, just pure indulgence and temptation that lasts into the next day and a new fragrance to hoard away at the next release. *flops back and inhales wrists and hair* I wish to reside by the delicious Strawberry Waterfall feature all day, however, there is still so much to see... but wait a second I see a few kicking their heels and hear grumbles in the back that they don't like gourmands, ah no worries, you may love the next collection of scents, come along... 🍷🌹🎨As much as I love comparing Moona to Willy Wonka she can also transform and transport the senses to different eras and scenes from novels, legends and treasured memories with a palette of rich florals, warm resins and nifty atmospheric effects. Here's a gallery that may interest you. Hygge (The Danish word, pronounced "hoo-ga", is usually translated into English as "coziness". Picture sitting by a fireplace, wearing your softest cozy slipper-socks, surrounded by the warm glow of candles, soft music playing, drinking mulled wine and hot coffees, while eating hot Danish pastries! That is definitely Hygge! Notes include: Gently spiced wine and coffees, wafting of warm Beeswax with subtle smokiness with a background of Danish pastry!) This is the scent that started the atmospheric gallery for me as I was able to try the Potion Lotion (thank you so much, Samantha!) in Hygge last year and with one thick lotion application I was in awe and love and I knew if given the chance I must sample the oil. What a difference between the two formats! The lotion is all heavenly vanilla cheese danish on me with a backing of equally realistic beeswax candles and the perfume is a whole storybook scene of warmth, peace and security with familiar black coffee opening then gently giving way to the barest aroma of a freshly trimmed Christmas tree all aglow and then the delectable vanilla drizzled cheese danish dessert is sliced and the textbook buttery flakiness and the barest sprinkle of homey spice and mulled fruit fully catches my attention and a swirl of holiday memories dances about in the glow of a traditional Christmas Eve candle that I fondly remember lighting and then blowing out to predict the future with my pappy as the first visible star of the night twinkled above such a lovely scene. Isn't it wonderful how indie perfumes can sweep us back to happier times? I know it's a splendid blessing for me and I have Hygge down for everything next Yule. Amber Rose (A beautifully rich and inciting Amber blended with real Bulgarian Rose essential oil makes for a heavenly blend.) Amber Rose is an ostentatious deep rose scent with a warm amber base and hints of hidden violet and frankincense (perhaps even a drop of spikenard?) I have been looking for a perfume that brings to mind Empress Elisabeth of Austria and by gum, I believe I have found it with Amber Rose. Legend has it that Empress Sisi would splash Bulgarian Rose oil in her infamous locks and that's what I plan to do when it returns. For those that missed out on Moona's The Coven, here is that blend's sister-scent with a vintage edge and missing the romantic vanilla from The Coven. Peches Melba (Juicy ripe peaches with a teeny squeeze of lemon, and fresh raspberry topped vanilla bean ice cream) Absolute scent sorcery, the peaches stay true and fresh without morphing into cat urine on my skin and I swear I smell COLD vanilla ice cream. The raspberries are crushed and cold as well. This blend has more throw with the gentle lemon raspberries and peach catching the attention first drawing the nose in then the creamy vanilla ice cream swirls around. This paints one passage from a treasured novel (The House of Mirth) and I will dab then slather and let Peches Melba take me away to the classy restaurant of Old New York and indulge in a bit of extravagance with the lovely Lily Bart in attendance (but I outshine her of course). Georgina (Creamy white Chocolate, fresh juicy Strawberries and Rose *created by Moona's young son) This is a creamy dreamy mélange of rose petals, fresh strawberries and distinct white chocolate that intensifies as the hours tick by. On application, the roses shower over the strawberries and the white chocolate serves as a nice sweet buttery afternote and some Easter basket memories. Mmm, it's been a long time since I found a pure white chocolate note without a distracting woody finish and Georgina is simply ace. I'm marking this delectable fruity-floral-gourmand for a hair conditioner option. A Discovery of Witches (Moona's rendition of the romantic description of Matthew de Clermont to his beloved Diana as to the scent of her skin~ Willow Sap, Chamomile, Golden Honey, Frankincense, Lady's Mantle, and *ancient things I thought I'd forgotten. * which includes in Moona's interpretation as Sacred Spikenard, Labdanum and Frankincense, among other beautiful components. Hmmm, sigh.....) A hodgepodge of morphing notes from nature and fantasy that all equals a mysterious vanilla-honey cream scent on the skin with a sprinkling of ritual spring herbs on top that hold some coolness and yet warmth somehow at the same inhale. A Discovery of Witches is one of those "your skin but better" romantic collages I adore that has some unexpected twists. I never read the books but I can easily imagine this character's personality, her hidden powers and understand why she is so irresistible to all those she encounters. Poetry (Romance is in the air with this balance of scent between floral, citrus, spice, and resin. Orange blossom cream with an English Toffee swirl and a touch of Frankincense and Ginger) This is a stunning work of scent art with an uplifting orange blossom opening, a creamy toffee swirl with a hint of resins and spicy ending*.* It contains elegant depth and morphing elements and has joined Nui Cobalt's LOVE (and Ambre Doré- to be rambled about shortly) as fragrances that transport me into a Pre-Raphaelite painting or a stained glass window. Poetry is perfectly named and there are subtle differences noticed between the hair detangler and perfume oil, if anything my curls amp the romantic orange blossoms with buttery toffee while my skin slightly amplifies the frankincense and ginger spice. Both exceedingly lovely and a starred favourite. Haunted Home (Haunt your halls with this bewitching blend of woods, herbs, resins and a touch of spice. Even an Addams would be envious of this brew! Reminiscent of the feeling and aroma of Moona's FAVORITE ride in the whole wide world, Haunted Mansion!) I dabbed and slathered and sniffed and huffed dozens of times and I honestly can't completely unravel this blend, it's just one of those rare atmospherics that you truly just go along the ride with and changes every time you try it! I know I smell Moona's trademark dulcet and dreamy lavender, various soft spices with dusty wood and I think some hidden gingerbread and a sprinkle of refined pipe tobacco; it's mysterious and somehow sweetly comforting. I love to wear Haunted Home to bed and let the notes drift me off to pleasant restive dreams. I need Haunted Home for my bath and in a dusting powder this year. Krampus Night! (Out of the German Black Forest to punish and drag away the naughty and not nice comes Krampus! Various dry woods including birch, blended with a touch of silken white wool and suede, sweet smoldering resinous embers, with a touch of wet blackened earth) Ah, Krampus Night! I first fell hard for this fragrance when a cleverly designed soap sample was included in my Yule order a few years back and I'm excited to note that the highly anticipated perfume carries the same intoxicating lump of coal-shaped soap's scent and my skin amps the seductive factors of Krampus Night!. In the soap, it was a collage of sweet nostalgic resins with a drop of suede and patchouli while with the oil format my skin unleashes the gentle spices with orange peel, suede, Moona's signature fir note and dark patchouli. In many ways, Krampus Night! reminds me of Kris Kringle but there are more clove, cinnamon and a naughty thack of birch and suede, which all makes sense as Krampus is said to be the opposite of Kris Kringle in the legends. Very clever interpretation. Marking another down for a bath option when the icy winds begin to howl. Ambre Doré (An Amber years in the making! Tenacious & rich with a sweet bourbon vanilla & resinous balsam base. The dry down is slightly woody with a touch of leather & a creamy hay like sensuous subtly) In the vial, I get inspiring vanilla extract with a kick and once it touches my skin it morphs completely to this stunning cold crystalline non-gourmand vanilla that I recognize from one point in A Discovery of Witches. It's romantic, boozy and meditative but also holds some seductive properties to the nose. It brings to mind Waterhouse's The Lady of Shalott classic painting and as a water sign and hopeless romantic I'm here for it all! For longevity, this one goes on for 14 hours and I do believe I need Ambre Doré in a dusting powder and argan oil option if funds permit. Halloween Hayride (Harvest hay, bonfires and dried leaves mix with amber, smoky sandalwood, and musk. In the distance, you are anxious to get to back to the circle with the promise of roasted marshmallows, and other sugary seasonal treats) Another realistic atmospheric to recommend as this is indeed a bouncing ride behind a puttering tractor with the vibrant blaze of autumnal leaves swishing in the chilled winds. There are apple orchards off in the near distance and someone is waving a blackened gooey marshmallow up at you as you pass a cosy bonfire. Halloween Hayride conjures the idyllic tableau that I would love to escape into at the moment. I'll just tuck this vial away when summer begins or bring it out when I'm fed up with any sticky humid days. Abigail (Sweet Vanilla Sugared Violets in Marshmallow cream, on a bed of golden sandalwood and a peak of tantalizing dark cocoa) The listed notes say strictly gourmand but Abigail is another surprise atmospheric taking those to the 18th and 19th centuries with ribbons and frothy lace and delicacies in gold caskets. Out of all the perfumes I sampled on this tour, this one carries the most "perfume" identity with the violets and sandalwood but it somehow works creating a rich scene of ladies of leisure with lace fans and perfumed love letters under candied violets and the last remnants of dark coco-dusted truffles. Sweet Smoke & Wood (Sweet smoldering Yule bonfires of Sandalwood and sweet aromas of the season) If you love relaxing meditative fragrances, come closer, no not that close. Stand back about 6 feet and tell me what you smell because Sweet Smoke & Wood has one impressive throw. I get the inside of a lush fir tree then creamy sandalwood amplifies along with a touch of spiced woodsmoke. It's one of those medleys you inhale and go back for another then flop back and let the winter musings aroma surround you and ease tension and negative thoughts blocking a better outlook for the day. For longevity, this blend was one of the longest-lasting out of the bunch clocking in at 18 hours and then still noticeable after a bath (thank goodness I love this Sweet Smoke & Wood and don't mind it lingering). ____________________________________ The Perfect 10: Strawberry Marshmallow, Jingle Jelly Donuts, Hygge, Lemon Curd & Coconut Cream, Ambre Doré, Bongo Poppy Cake, Poetry, Peches Melba, Where's My Pie and Haunted Home Thank you for reading and allowing me to share one of the greatest scent experiences I have ever had. *Reviews composed in 2021 2020 into 2021 truly shaped up to be a time of transformation for myself and I treated myself to some special trinkets to celebrate, starting with these lovely finds from Grandmother's Buttons. Where to start with this nifty little shop? Their designs are stunning and original (many of the buttons shown are one of a kind and cannot be reproduced), the jewellery may appear delicate but they are quality, flattering and of course, eye-catching. Their customer service is phenomenal and I adore they send you coupons for future purchases and seem so down to earth and care about preserving and sharing history with their customers. These trinkets are the very definition of heirloom pieces and I'm so happy I discovered this storefront. Moon Cresent Bracelet- the little tag that came with each bracelet says this button is from the late 19th century and I can't stop musing on its particular history and story as I watch the little flashes of the cut steel moons and faceted centre in the light and relax further listening to the delightful tinkling sounds the dainty links make. Everything about it is enchanting and this little magpie found her signature bracelet. Antoinette Bracelet- this beauty hails from the 1930s according to the introduction tag and came from an era dress. I initially purchased this design because I thought it looked like a crystal pumpkin and it indeed does resemble a bedazzled mini pumpkin on my wrist and goes with practically everything I own just like the Moon Cresent Bracelet. Grandmother's Buttons *Review composed in 2021 As promised here is my first experience with ILNP and the start of a whole new little obsession. Dear Santa (I've been calling it 'Santa Baby' as that song plays non-stop in my head when I look at my nails and let the light play against the morphing tones, haha) Description of the shade- "Dear Santa is a delightfully deep burgundy duochrome full of elegance. Inundated with subtly shifting red-to-gold shimmer, Dear Santa showcases a minimal and refined duochrome finish reminiscent of smooth and cozy cashmere." My impression- This shade may have Christmas tidings on the label but when applied my mind immediately travels to vibrant fall and feathered boas. There is a subtle shift of deep satiny cranberry to copper and gold depending on how the polish catches the light and complete opacity is about 3 coats. Longevity is an impressive 5 to 7 days with no top coat before a severe chip occurs (and that is with heavy hand washing, surgical glove wearing and even home chores). Dear Santa is one magnetic shade that says one fabulous night is in store and ILNP polishes are definitely worth the hype on social media; they have one impressive formula there. ILNP New House of Fragrance on the Horizon/FEATURED: Jorum Studio (Scented love letters from Scotland)3/29/2022
*Reviews composed in 2021 I dream of visiting Scotland one day... Until then I have a trove of poetic scent ventures to sweep me away with a wave of the wrist. 🦄The following perfumes were won from a giveaway by Jorum Studio on social media. They were my first experience with Edp forms of fragrances and introduction to niche perfume as well as natural perfumery. I will be visiting this house of fragrance again. Carduus (Chamomile, Bengal Pepper, Honey, Clary Sage, Sea-holly, Marjoram Tea, Myrtle, Rose Absolute, Vetch, Clove Bud, Hart’s Tongue, Tuberose, Musk-thistle, Heliotrope, Tormentil, Mahogany, Cocoa Absolute, Tobacco, Meum, Deertongue, Cherrywood) 'Nemo me impune lacessit' – the Order of the Thistle. The defiant motto of Scotland, an ancestral virtue. This olfactory ode to the thistle opens with a drop of honeyed cocoa that quickly disappears then this captivating unlisted creamy liquorice and herbaceous combination comes forth and completely sweeps me away as the liquorice deepens with a slick green earthy smokiness akin to incense that I was not expecting. For oil comparison, Carduus reminds me in ways of Trimerous with the addition of seductive anise, so it is no wonder my skin and nose adore this. When it comes to longevity, this perfume holds the crown as the longest-lasting of the six blends in the Progressive Botany Vol. I collection clocking in at an impressive 18 hours. Mysterious romantic liquorice and inspiring earthy incense, take me away! Trimerous (Carrot Seed, Bergamot, Nectarine, Thyme, Cicely, Pink Pepper, Juniper, Cloudberry, Angelica Root, Orris Butter, Kombucha, Centaury, Suede, Oud, Musk*, Ambergris, Styrax, Vanilla, Incense) "There is eerie silence after the Harvest. From the small square window we await the autumnal shift. Dusting across fields of Hare-eared crowns, we pray the rare roots make it through the hoar."
Nectary (Bramble, Cranberry, Peach, Rose Absolute, Oud, Ambergris, Roseroot, Olibanum, Selfheal, Castoreum*, Civet*, Labdanum Absolute, Musk)* *of synthetic origin. "Born of a daydream to create a garden for the skin. Equal parts flower, leaf and soil." Not your average or tamed rose scent, this floral-fruit wine medley has a bite and naughty side that takes a little bit of patient aging to fully meld together, but once it does, you're under its seductive animallic spell and there is no turning back or putting this bottle down. The vivid wild picture Nectary paints is one you can't wait to escape to. Arborist (Quince, Honey, Saffron, Osmanthus Absolute, Magnolia, Burdock, Papyrus, Mugwort, Rose Absolute, Tuberose, Myrrh Absolute, Spruce Resin, Douglas Fir, Labdanum, Jatamansi, Malt, Lichen) "The Green Man - a study of humanity’s visceral and tempestuous relationship with nature." Speaking of vivid scenes you can't wait to escape back to, could the primal god who embodies this fragrance (and Carduus) please step forward and claim me already? What isn't to love about Arborist, it's realistic sun-dappled forest greenery, smoky shadows, salty skin and sweet nothings whispered by a bubbling stream. It's fantastic for an unexpected sleep-time fragrance and a solid recommendation for any earth signs. Medullary-Ray (Fig-leaf, Cardamom, Olive, Juniper, Frankincense, Orris Butter, Rose Absolute, Pomegranate, Myrrh, Vetiver, Guaicwood, Papyrus, Hay, Birch, Cedarwood, Castoreum*, Valerian, Sandalwood Oil) *of synthetic origin. "Rays of Tuscan springtime glint between the strokes of the woodworker’s plane. The midday air fills heavy with the scent of blushed fruit and waxen-leaf."
Phloem (Passion Fruit, Rhubarb, Mulberry, Nasturtium, Honeysuckle, Blaeberry, Camellia, Oysterplant, Meadowsweet, Gorse, Ambrette, Sesame, Amyris, Tonka Bean Absolute) "Like a neon trident, vascular blooms rip through mercurial waters. Candied rosé sky floods the costal cottage provoking lucid dreams of obsessive Selkie skin-love, lips smack with saline dab."
I just had to finish out the collection by purchasing a sample of Athenaeum from Indigo Perfumery when I went on to explore the sister shop to Jorum (but I'll share those another day). Athenaeum (Scottish Lavender, Beeswax*, Fennel, Apple, Honey, Neroli oil, Hyacinth, Flouve, Patchouli, Morocco Leather*, Gurjun Balsam, Oak, Ink. *of synthetic origin.)
"Athenaeum is the distillation of a once forgotten yet fond olfactory memory, awakened upon a chance encounter at the local athenaeum. It is the fragmented and hazy reminiscence of a rural childhood found once more in the urban landscape" This is only how I would finish out the perfect venture or adventure to a dream locale- a trip in springtime to an ancient stone building steeped in history and towering with priceless books. One wave of my wrist and I'm walking in the countryside with nodding hyacinths and rustling apple trees greeting me as I find a path strewn with lush heather to an ancient stone church nestled in the foggy hills. I can smell the waxed wood of the kneeling pews as I walk in to these hollowed walls and the buttery leather and tang of the gall ink of the books lining shelves, ancient and mysterious manuscripts beckon for a peek. I could stay here forever. I hope this place exists Atheneum creates in my mind. Jorum Studio *Review composed in 2021 I fully admit I've had my eye on ROXX Polish for months and pounced immediately when they had a sale at the end of December. Each bottle has either crushed crystals added to the formula or actual mini stones floating at the bottom of the bottle which I have never seen before. Every crystal has a meaning that is meant to serve you, and even if that isn't something that resonates with you, you can't deny the shades are stunning. For me, Rose Quartz & Selenite was the first colour that "called" to me as I love those crystals and I hold a special association for myself. I also needed a quality top coat, so I added the Clear Quartz top coat to my basket as well. Rose Quartz & Selenite Crystal Infused Polish ("Optimism) I'm just tickled pink with my first Roxx Nail Polish order. It shipped lightning fast (ordered at 8pm and shipped within hours then arrived only few days later), was presented in a charming eye-catching way in little organza bags (along with tea and stickers) and the polish far exceeded my expectations with the colour and wear time. The Rose Quartz and Selenite is the perfect balance of pale petal pink with a silver moonlit flash in the bottle and transforms into this lovely pearlescent ballet pink on the nails that catches the light, elongates my fingers and gets attention! This is the perfect shade for January into February for Valentine's Day. I feel like a blushing Ice Queen and can't recommend this polish and little shop enough. *pictured is one coat of polish, if you desire full opacity, two coats will suffice. Clear Quartz Crystal Infused Base And Top Coat ("Intuition") Shine baby shine with this clear crystal polish! This is one impressive formula that works on bare nails or as a top coat, I have not experienced one chip even with vigorous dishwashing and it is a very forgiving polish that covers user imperfections (great if you have shaky hands or RA). I also love rocking the bottle back and forth to make the crystals inside move around, so not only does this polish work wonders it holds a bit of additional sparkly amusement. What a find! Roxx Polish *pokes blog with stick*
Yes, I'm here albeit trying to crawl out of my head space and desperately seeking a distraction SO let's get back to writing about smellies, books and shiny things, shall we? In all seriousness I do apologize for the neglect of this page, some Tower moments are happening in my life testing everything I have and forgive me for not going into specifics, it's just not a happy year. Writing is one thing giving me any semblance of control right now so I will be returning to reviewing and catching up on ramblings and stepping away from major social media (mainly Instagram). I had such plans for this April regarding the conclusion of my Edith Wharton and Titanic historic floral themed posts but those will have to wait for a few months while I rebuild and work through etc. Anyways in the words of one of my favourite guilty pleasure films "the show must go on" so keep an eye out here and on ScentedTrinkets on Reddit. Thank you for reading and checking in, -Elspeth |
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In accordance with FTC Guidelines, I disclose how I obtained every title for review at As The Final Page Turns (whether that be by ARC, purchased (on nook, kindle or specially ordered hardbacks) Audible version or simply borrowed at my local library). Please note: titles reviewed that are ARCS (Advanced Reader Copies) are free review copies of books that are given by publishers (these ARCS can be found at NetGalley or Edelweiss). Categories
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28th of January 2023) NOTES/COMBINATIONS and Stones CURRENTLY ON THE HUNT FOR: Naughty Licorice/Star Anise Cardamom Cardamom Cake with Roses Smoky Honey & Leather Leather and Florals Pomegranate Colder Tuberose scents Smoked Florals with Cinnamon and Honey Graham Cracker and Incense Double strand of Rose Quartz or Moonstones or Black Tourmaline Chainmaille Jewellery Houses of Fragrance and Interest on the Horizon (shops that contain such temptations): LurkerAndStrange Good Spirit Wolf Rapt In Maille ToadStoolSoaps DSH Perfume Baphomet&Co Harvest Moon Haven Granny Hootenanny's Shop
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