It’s not that I’m over the summer or ready for layers. Close though. The last few weeks have been brutal heat wise. There is something comforting, however, about a go to Fall fragrance. For years, my scarves, hoodies and jacket collars permeated with Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir because I’m classy like that.
In the mood for a change, I’ve expanded my scent repertoire and put the brakes on the familiar. This Fall, I’m exploring gender specific and other options to complement the crisp air, earlier sundowns and more substantial wardrobe.
L’ENVOL de Cartier
Unquestionably masculine, this designer launch is one of the most reached for additions to my fragrance library. The first oriental from Cartier, it opens with an intense honey note, which lingers for a few minutes, after which patchouli takes over. Subtle and far from sweet, the woodsy, warm and sophisticated blend also combines musk, iris and guaiac wood. While inspired by the golden nectar of the gods, Ambrosia, L’ENVOL de Cartier dries down with a touch of smoke or incense on me and I love it. One of the most exciting creations from the brand – definitely check it out. The stylish light bulb like bottle allows for the refillable element to pop out, making it a great travel option. Nordstrom even has a L’ENVOL Grooming Oil ($61), you guys! $132 (refillable 3.3 oz.) or $115 (2.7 oz.) nordstrom.com
Commodity Goods Wool
Beyond clever, the noses behind Commodity Goods elevate familiar simplicity to new heights of fragrant innovation. While the range is studded with scents I truly adore, Wool is the one I find particularly enticing. Part of the darker, more intense part of the line, this blend of fresh Citrus, vibrant Basil with warm Vetiver and Lavender is both cozy and sophisticated. Completely unisex, Wool is comfortable, mysterious and very clean. Incredible solo, it also plays very well with Tea or Rain from the lighter side of ‘the goods’ for those wanting a crispier finish. One of the sharpest and unassuming scents I own. Love it. $105 (100ml) Sephora.com
Robert Graham Valour
One of the most intriguing launches of 2016 this designer scent feels very much niche. With warmth from coffee, sage and amber notes, Valour is extremely unique and my favorite evening scent during cooler weather. With just a hint of spice, this Robert Graham creation is an oriental woodsy blend that remains light as it wears for hours. Completely ucommon in the sea of designer fragrances, I’ve been picking up my bottle A LOT lately. Bold and modern, this well-dressed fragrance is attention grabbing without being aggressive. $125 (100ml) robertgraham.us or bloomingdales.com
Van Cleef & Arpels BOIS D’IRIS
This fancy white floral is low key, clean and very handsome. Slightly gourmand yet far from creamy or powdery in spite of its very present vanilla note, it will wear great on men and women. The truly refined bouquet of iris, amber and vetiver is very compelling but it’s the dry down of cozier cedar and paper notes that gives this mature yet cool fragrance its edge. It has a reminiscent quality of a luxurious after shave but the powdery element is hugged by sweet, salty and spicy, making it one of the most unique and approachable couture fragrances. Mysterious and confident, Bois d’Iris from Van Cleef & Arpels is a stunning addition to your Fall line up. $185 (2.5 oz.) neimanmarcus.com, bergdorfgoodman.com
John Varvatos Artisan Blu
A complete sucker for citrus, I gravitated to this John Varvatos release earlier this year. Inspired by the sun drenched Mediterranean coast, the airy aquatic notes are complemented by aromatic bergamot, bitter orange and geranium. With pine, cedar and patchouli in its base, it settles in a richer woodsy manner with a lingering zesty brightness. Great for either day or in the evening, it is masculine without being too mass. $89 (4.2 oz.) Sephora.com or barneys.com
*press samples
