A month or so ago, I finished my bottle of Tom Ford Mandarino di Amalfi. And panicked. Slightly. When it comes to selecting a fragrance, I’m a creature of habit. Especially in the summer. A half-full flask of JO LOVES Mandrine continuous to feed my Mediterranean-coastal-citrus obsession but I was becoming too predictable on hot, humid days. So, I branched out! Following are the top three most reached for gems I’ve been borderline overwearing. And, I’m not sorry.
Commodity Nectar
This sharp and sophisticated blend of white florals and citrus notes combines my two favorite raw ingredients from the world of fragrance: Pomelo and Neroli. It opens with a burst of bright effervescence and sharpens as it wears with a mysterious bitter orange blossom. There is nothing creamy about Nectar. Both jasmine and honeysuckle make for a subtle floral backdrop without fighting for the spotlight. The complex scent has an almost woody finish on me and it’s definitely one of the most ‘grown-up’ citrus creations I have worn. It lasts for hours. $105 (50ml) sephora.com
Diptyque Eau Des Sens
For years, I’ve considered diptyque to be the classic home scent brand. Call me basic, but I can’t get enough of Baies candles and yes, I keep an empty jar filled with tweezers, brushes, and what not on my vanity. I’ve only begun wearing diptyque Eau de Toilette earlier this year and this orange grove in a bottle is my new obsession. The initial burst of an almost soapy orange blossom quickly becomes sunny, crisp, and perfectly simple. There is a hint of warmth and maybe some spice, but at its core, it is very clean. It has become my go-to daytime scent of late and routinely triggers a surprising number of compliments. Admittedly, my passion for Neroli borders on a fetish, but until Eau des Sense, it was a challenge finding one that would last on me. This one’s staying power is excellent. $95 (50ml) nordstrom.com
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Celestia Forte
In my fragrance wardrobe, the eau-so-refined Aqua Celestia Forte is the all-time favorite. The opening is loud with mint, lime, and petitgrain. The middle is significantly more floral (Lily of the Valley, Jasmine, Black Currant Blossom, Mimosa) and the graceful bouquet is anchored by a hint of exquisite musk. Alongside Petit Matin, the unique and impressive 2018 launch from Francis Kurkdjian qualifies as my most reached for fragrance by this designer. Ideal on a hot summer day, the fresh green notes linger through the afternoon. I love everything about this Eau de Parfum. $275 (70ml) neimanmarcus.com
*press samples
