Keiko Mecheri's Mogador. This fragrance is a highly distinctive rose and Keiko Mecheri is known for her obsession with the power of scent to evoke emotion. This fragrance evokes the sensuality of the majestic rose in one fragrance featuring three types of legendary flower: Turkish, Bulgarian, and Dades.
The new bottle, shown here is now available at Lucky Scent
Creed Fleurs de Bulgarie is a gorgeous and beautiful fragrance made from the rarest Bulgarian rose essences with ambergris and musk to provide depth and tenacity. Currently, Bulgarian Roses cost over a thousand dollars per ounce due to their rarity. Creed Fleurs de Bulgarie is based on a perfume created by Creed in the nineteenth century for Queen Victoria but is definitely not old fashioned. This fragrance always garners mystical compliments, it carries a special and magical aura for me. It's scent is timeless. One of my top ten.
Also available at Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Ave counters.
Guerlain's Rose Barbare.
One word. Stunning.
From the L'Art de Matiere Collection, Rose Barbare has captured my heart. A very contemporary and untamable rose, Rose Barbare is beautiful and rebellious, with heady top notes of ottoman rose amid the spontaneous sensuality of fresh honey and chypree notes. If you have not read Chandler Burr's review in the New York Times, view here.
Valentino Rock 'n Rose. A fragrance inspired by the modern woman, who combines a rock 'n roll attitude with style. Rock 'n Rose strikes the perfect balance between edgy and Valentino's elegance and tradition. Notes of Bergamot, Black Currant, Crunch Green, Orange Blossom, Gardenia, Muguet, Rose, Sandalwood, Orris, Musky Notes, Vanilla, Heliotrope. Two versions, both beautiful.
Stella McCartney Stella
A sensuous, this scent pairs feminine notes of rose and peony with juicy mandarin and intense amber for a scent that's both sexy and unmistakably stylish. A fragrance based on the contrast between the freshness and softness of the rose, and the dark sensuality of amber. Notes:Rose, Peony Flower, Mandarin, Rose Absolute, Amber.
Annick Goutal Rose Absolue. A bouquet of the most beautiful and noblest roses. Roses from May, Turkey, Bulgaria, Damascus, Egypt and Morocco. A deep and powdery fragrance that gives the impression of standing in a rose garden. Annick Goutal chose to create this perfume for her own pleasure. Made in a floral compsoition from six kinds of rose. Seductive scents of rose de Mai, Turkish rose, Bulgarian rose, Damask rose, Egyptian and Moroccan.
Lancome Mille et Une Rose- The rose of "blue juice". Launched by the design house of Lancome, MILLE & UNE ROSES by Lancome is classified as a flowery fragrance. A ‘blue’, ambery rose This feminine scent blends Absolute Damascus Rose with Ambrette and a modern amber note.
E. Coudray Jacinthe et Rose
A very fresh rose that smells like a summer breeze. A light floral fragrance that combines the sharp, green scent of spring hyacinths with the sweetness of the summer rose. Top notes: bigarade, hyacinth, vineyard, peach - Middle notes: rose, peony, orange blossom, jasmine, ylang ylang - Bottom notes: cedarwood, sandalwood, vetiver, vanilla, musk. Hard to find in America now, best bet is Les Senteurs in the UK where shipping is fast. E. Coudray is a gorgeous line of fragrances and definitely worth exploring.
Editions Frédéric Malle Une Rose
Applying the slogan, “Fragrance without compromise”, Frédéric Malle’s collection of highly crafted and exceptional perfumes; each of which bears the name of the creator on the bottle. All of the fragrances have been formulated by those whom Malle considers to be the top ‘noses’ in the world. Edouard Fléchier’s “nose” led him to international acclaim following years of study at Roure Bertrand Dupont's Ecole de Parfumerie. His Une Rose fragrance for Frédéric Malle is his first rose-scented creation. Une Rose is said to have set new grounds, combining the floral burst of the bloom with the more dirty depths of its roots, injected with geranium and wine dregs. The intoxicating notes of Turkish Rose Absolute finish with a sensual and earthy black truffle accord which reminds many of the essence of a rose garden.
Amouage Lyric Woman
Lyric Woman is a new modern classic and is described as a "deliciously dramatic fragrance, inspired by the poetic beauty of that most iconic of fragrance notes – the rose."
Lyric Woman is complex in which deep, smoky rose takes center-stage in the heart, with the addition of rich floral notes of geranium, jasmine and orris. The spiciness of cinnamon, cardamom and ginger in the top notes lifts the fragrance, while the base is made up of Amouage's stunning frankincense and wood notes. Darkly intense and and very unusual.
Yves Saint Laurent Paris.
I recently revisited Paris because of Michael Edwards and the workshop that he conducted in New York City. Smelling Paris again was like visiting an old friend and I learned to let go of my "judgements" of what I considered to be a "big eighties and blowsy fragrance" It is simply a beautiful fragrance. It is said that Yves Saint Laurent was an incurable romantic and that he created Paris in a dedication to the city of inspiration and love. Paris by YSL is a perfect orchestration of 232 notes. This feminine scent possesses notes of Rose, Hawthorn, Mimosa, Violet, Sandalwood, Moss, Iris, Amber and Musk. Most definitely worth a revisit. Thanks to Michael Edwards for opening my eyes to the beauty of the notes.
"When all of the flower ladies want back
what they have lent you
And the smell of their roses does not remain... Won't you come see me,
Queen Jane?"
--Bob Dylan, "Queen Jane Approximately"
Serge Lutens Sa Majeste La Rose. Some describe this a "dirty green rose". This is Serge Lutens’s ode to the Queen of flowers. Sa Majesté La Rose is another stunning rose and ultimate seductress, a rose of fresh dew resting on rose petals. Notes of Moroccan rose absolute, gaiac wood, clove, white honey and musk. Another stunner which blooms on the skin in the heat. One of my favorite reviews of Sa Majesté La Rose was by Theresa Duncan.
Robert Piguet Baghari. Aurélien Guichard, a young master perfumer who is part of Givaudan in Paris, undertook the delicate process of adapting Baghari’s original formula and created a modern classic fragrance that is destined to last forever. A bouquet of rose, jasmine, iris and fresh citrus is blended with powdery amber and natural vanilla. Baghari is so enchanting that this has now become a staple of my "Fragrance Library"
Yves Rocher Rose Absolute
The world's most afforable rose fragrance and very beautiful. The Secrets d' Essences rose is a multi-faceted rose born from the union of two rosa damascena absolutes: Bulgarian and Turkish rose absolute, combined with Moroccan rose absolute, sensual and voluptuous. A Floral Oriental Woody wit added notes of Cinnamon, Tonka bean and Patchouli.
Everything in the Les Parfums de Rosine line is extremely appealing. Ecume de Rose is a surprisingly romantic, deep and light perfume, where the fresh note of the rose is delicately mixed with sea spray and sand flowers. A savage, wild rose that is inspired by the dune rose bushes.
I secretly call this my "Mermaid Rose". Olfactory family is Marine, Floral. Notes of Blackcurrant leaf, Sea lily with heart notes of Dune roses, Artemisia, Rose Attar and Rose Absolue with base note of Vetiver, Ambergis, White musk.
Another stunner....
Les Parfums de Rosine Rose d’Eté
Rose d’Eté is the perfect yellow rose in full bloom...just one of my "happy" summer favorites. Les Parfums de Rosine Rose d’Ete belongs to the olfactory family of fresh and floral. Beautiful accord of roses and lime trees flowers, Galbanum, Green apple, Bergamot, Yellow rose, Lime tree flowers, Mimosa, Lotus, Ambrette seeds, and Musk. samples and website
Bond No. 9 West Side. Bond No. 9 is a seduction of floral accords of intoxicating rose along with ylang-ylang and peony, the heart is warm with sandalwood and amber. Soft and warm vanilla and musk form the base. Unisex.
"A melodious full-bodied coloratura perfume, with dark-light, high-low, sweet-sharp floral and woody notes."
Bond. No 9 and Saks
Téo Cabanel Oha
Oha is the enchanting floral chypre. Voluptuous roses from Bulgaria and Morocco, Jasmine and Cardamom. Oha luxuriates in the captivating notes notes of vanilla, iris, tonka bean and exotic woods lifted by a note of white musk, Vanilla and Iris. Henri Bendel USA only, the whole Téo Cabanel line is absolutely stunning and strangely addictive. "Very French"
Creed Fleur de Thé Rose Bulgare
Creed's Fleur de Thé Rose Bulgare is said to be truest rose fragrance ever made. A breathtaking and crisp green rose, of pink Bulgarian rose with notes of green tea with fiery, tempestuous notes of Sicilian mandarin, Sicilian bergamot and Italian lemon. Mint and tangerine notes add vibrancy and freshness.
Many consider this fragrance to be essentially; "the mother of all roses". The rich, the famous, the beautiful, the fabulous, as well as lovers of fragrance; gravitate to and covet the stunning Creed Fleurs de Thé Rose Bulgare.
Fleur de Thé Rose Bulgare was created for screen legend Ava Gardner by the House of Creed and one can see why. This is a crisp and dramatic floral scent that evokes the lush sensuality of the tea rose. My male friends wear this as well. Top ten. Not to be confused with another favorite, Creed Fleur de Rose Bulgarie.
Diva by Ungaro Fragrances
Ungaro Diva perfume was introduced in 1983 and has become a classic. Ungaro Diva perfume consists of forest notes of oakmoss, sandalwood and patchouli, with a hearty middle blend of rose, narcissus, jasmine and iris, with traces of fruity base notes.
Serge Lutens Rose de Nuit
Fleurs Nobles
A chypre fragrance with Turkish rose resting on a gorgeous bed of yellow jasmine, apricot, amber, musk, sandalwood and chypre. Some consider Rose de Nuit to be a "black rose", dark and very sexy.
Maître Parfumeur et Gantier
Rose Muskissime
Rose Muskissime is a blend of Turkish and Morrocan roses associated with exotic fruits, passion, papaya and manto...
on a very dynamic base of musk. This fragrance is for those who want to experience pure luxury in fragrance. Fragrance Notes: Morrocan Roses, Passion Fruit, Mango, Carnation, and Sandalwood. Fragrance Family: Floral-Fruity
BVLGARI Rose Essentielle
Rose Essentielle is a delicate and feminine tribute to the world's most prestigious flower - the rose. The ultimate floral expression of luxury and absolute femininity, it is a rose-floral interpretation of the Pour Femme fragrance. Notes of Rose Prelude, Blackberry, Feuille de Violette, Living Mimosa, Jasminum Sambac, Patchouli & Bois de Gaiac .
Luminious clarity in a gorgeous chic bottle. This scent embodies the spirit of the rose - luxuriously feminine with a hint of mystery.
Armani Privé Rose Alexandrie
Rose Alexandrie invites you to discover the fragile strength of the legendary gardens of Alexandria, Egypt. The gardens’ originality consisted in bringing together plant varieties from far-away lands whose paths had never before crossed. Rose Alexandrie links rose of May, the finest and clearest quality of rose which only grows in the south of France, to the finest Italian citrus.
L’Artisan Parfumeur Voleur de Roses
The name means thief of roses, and this romantic scent is worn by both men and women all across the world. Voleur de Roses ha notes of Fresh Rose, Plum, Patchouli Leaves, Benzoin, Amber and is in the woody oriental flower family. An eau de toilette that evokes the smell of earth after rainfall mixed with the fragrance of fresh roses. A perfume that is both sweet and warm.
ONDE Mystère by Armani
ONDE Mystère by Armani is an Oriental and described as a voluptuous interpretation of the Middle East using the most beautiful raw materials from the perfumer’s palette in order to create an ultra-femine fragrance. ONDE Mystère olfactory signature is of traditional musk-amber, with Moroccan Rose buds, incense and the richness of vanilla absolute with the base of spiced accords of incense and accords of amber. Onde Mystere is inspired by mysterious harem women. The bottle symbolizes waves left in the sand by the wind. Adorned with a vibrant red tassel made of natural silk thread, inspiration is pulled from the oriental fabrics so often used by Giorgio Armani through his fashion collections.
Guerlain Nahema
The classic, mysterious, sumptuous Nahema perfume, was introduced in 1979 by the world renowned fragrance house of Guerlain. Guerlain Nahema perfume is a honey rose rich blend of floral and oriental notes of hyacinth, ylang-ylang, rose, jasmine, lilac, lily of the Valley, peach, tonka bean, Peru balsam, benzoin, vanilla, vetiver and sandalwood.
Jean-Paul Guerlain created Nahéma, which means "daughter of fire." and is based on a character in Scheherazade's Thousand and One Nights -
Catherine Denueuve was also the inspiration for Nahema - "Catherine Deneuve starred in a film where she appeared in a gilded cage scattered with roses," explains Jean-Paul Guerlain. "She was wearing a dress of white silk, and her hair was loose and ruffled like a golden halo — absolutely breathtaking."
Top ten
Creed Fleurissimo
The classic, haunting and gorgeous Creed Fleurissimo is another of my top ten frgarances that contain rose and reaches great heights of classic fairy tale romances. The enduring beauty of Creed Fleurissimo, the ethereal floral fragrance specially commissioned by Prince Rainier of Monaco for his bride, Princess Grace, to wear for the first time on her wedding day. An intoxicating blend of tuberose, Bulgarian rose, violet and Florentine iris, Creed Fleurissimo will bring out the princess in any woman and inspire her dream of royal beauty and romance. This extraordinary fragrance was also a treasured favorite of another American "royal" - Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.
A fragrance that opens like a flower, the feminine composition of rose and tuberose, enhanced with violet leaves and Florentine iris, makes this scent the epitome of classic fragrances. Top ten.
and Parfums Raffy
Les Parfums de Rosine La Rose d’ Rosine
La Rose de Rosine is a beautiful and dramatic scent made with the sumptuous and opulent red rose. Completely different from my other two favorites, (Part one) the intense velvety intriguing La Rose de Rosine has a deeper rich rose scent. Notes of violet and rose mingle with heart notes of iris, jasmine and rare roses from exotic places such as Turkey, Greece, Damascus and Bulgaria and finishes with bottom notes of tonka bean, balsam and soft musk for a sensuous fragrance. Gorgeous. Top ten.
Shu Uemura Fleur de Rose
Fleur de Rose is a fragrance with fresh floral amber note and Turkish rose. It was created by Daniel Maurel and introduces lemon in top notes, Turkish rose, ylang ylang, jasmine and freesia in a heart and sage with sandalwood in base notes.
Christian Lacroix Tumulte
Tumulte by Christian Lacroix is a oriental floral fragrance for women, Notes of mandarin orange, freesia, rose; iris, heliotrope, tonka bean, patchouli and musk. Tumulte is a flamboyant floral and is by French fashion designer Christian Lacroix. A lovely oriental-floral blend for women. Very pretty. Woman also wear the Tumulute Pour Homme-
Maitre Parfumeur et Gantier
Rose Opulente
Rose Opulente is part of the Fleurs Divines Collection of Maitre Parfumeur et Gantier. This, of course, was created as a tribute to the Queen of Flowers as mentioned in Persian poetry and the fresh Rose Opulente was picked in an Eastern garden. This fragrance is a rose with spicy, fruity and green notes to release its heady fragrance. Maitre Parfumeur et Gantier Rose Opulente is a velvety deep red and leafy green fragrance of Ispahan rose - a massive bouquet of Moroccan and Turkish roses. The other notes are jasmine, ylang ylang clove with mush, ambergris and sandalwood. It lives up to its name. The Maitre Parfumeur et Gantier line uses only the rarest and raw materials.
Alexandra
Alexandra de Markoff
Alexandra is a semi-Oriental with
Moroccan rose at its heart. This is a
feminine floral fragrance with sensuous
undertones. I recently revisited this
and fell in love with its sumptuous notes.
This sexy scent feminine scent is a
dazzling blend of florals such as rose
and jasmine and weaves magic with the
blend of amber, musk, sandalwood and
vanilla. I use the oil as perfume as well.
A great "oldie" with classic overtones
from Hollywood.
Balmain La Môme
La Môme created by the house of Balmain, is a perfume inspired by the past, a pure vintage fragrance, revisited with the most precious ingredients. To the image of the light and emotion conveyed by Edith Piaf ‘s voice, the harmony of La Môme unveils words of love. The fragrance was created by Perfumer Guillaume Flavigny and is an Oriental Floral with notes of Rose De Mai, freesia, violet, iris, rose absolute, myrrh, musk, opopanax and amber.
Ombre Rose by Jean-Charles Brosseau
Haven't we all worn Ombre Rose at one time or another? This was my first conscious effort of wearing a "rose based" fragrance. Once I discovered the Creed's, The Caron's, The Guerlain's, the Rosine's, my poor Ombre Rose fell by the wayside, never to return. But...Ombre Rose is an Oriental and is now considered a "retro rose". It is making a big comeback since it is still a lovely fragrance and is very affordable.
Jean-Charles Brosseau was looking for a perfume that would bring back the memories of his grandmother's face powder, his youth, family Sunday gatherings and a perfume that would also suggest hats and furs! He proposed this idea to Americans who immediately saw its potential for success. The fragrance and the perfume bottle were created and what followed was a real infatuation for this perfume which dared to combine gourmet praline and cosmetic notes. This feminine scent possesses a blend of rosewood, geranium, rose, cedarwood, honey, vanilla and musk. Don't forget the matching powder...
Eau Rosee by Mariella Burani
Mariella Burani Eau Rosee by Mariella Burani is a floral (citrus and roses )fruity fragrance for women. Eau Rosee notes are orange, mandarin orange, bergamot and lemon; middle notes are iris, coconut, violet, peach, ylang-ylang, lily-of-the-valley and rose; base notes are tonka bean, amber, coconut, vanilla and oakmoss. It is from the Italian design house of Mariella Burani
Introduced in 1997, Mariella Burani Eau Rosee like a newly-blossomed rose in a field of sunflowers. Fresh and delicate, Eau Rosee is a natural concentrate of different yet unique nuances, combining sparkling aldehydic top notes, delicate and sweetly spiced heart notes, and a base warmed by accents of amber, wood and face powder.
Mariella Burani by Mariella Burani is a oriental fragrance for women. Mariella Burani was launched in 1993. Notes are tarragon, bergamot, brazilian rosewood and lemon; iris, jasmine, ylang-ylang, lily-of-the-valley,rose, amber, sandalwood, tonka bean, patchouli, musk, benzoin, vanilla and vetiver. This is classified as a flowery fragrance.
Lorenzo Villoresi Alamut
Alamut is a journey to the Orient, a fragrant arabesque. A spellbinding perfect fragarance that is warm and comforting yet very glamorous and sexy. Staring at the ruby red bottle, I imagine that a ruby gem would smell like this fragrance. Notes of Osmanthus, Rose, Jasmin, Rosewood and exotic flowers, Narcissus, Tuberose, Ylang Ylang, Orange Blossom, Labdanum, Amber, Musk, Amyris, Sandalwood, Patchouli, Benzoin, leather. Blooms in the summer and is also perfect for fall and winter. Top ten.
“The rich, opulent and velvety flowers of a Thousand and one night, dreams of secret gardens in the moonlight of the fresh oriental night."
Lafco NY and Aedes
Le Maroc pour elle
Andy Tauer Perfumes
Our dear friend Perfumer Andy Tauer has become a world-wide cult classic favorite; Le Maroc pour elle is one of his earlier fragrances. Le Maroc pour elle is a sunny oriental perfume for women and is called "a fragrant dream built on Maghreb roses and Moroccan jasmine. A truly unique and passionate perfume, shining golden in its flacon."
Le Maroc pour elle is the perfume of the Moroccan rose at dawn, combined with the seductive evening scent of jasmine. The flower fragrances melt into the enchantment of cedar wood from the High Atlas, forming a truly sensual oriental perfume. The head note is composed of fresh citrus and hints of lavender. Cedar wood forms the perfume body, gently combined with the balm of oriental woods.
Andy Tauer's vision was "Le Maroc pour elle, eau de parfum, is the sunny scent of the Maghreb rose and jasmine. It was my dream to create a truly feminine perfume that is oriental and natural in its appearance. You will find in this perfume absolutes of rose and jasmin absolute combined with the essential oil from cedarwood of the High Atlas. With these natural treasures I painted a fragrant picture of the Maghreb that will transform you into a land of enchantment and erotic dance"
Red Roses Jo Malone
Red Roses Jo Malone is composed of seven types of roses from around the world, Red Roses is a surprisingly clean, voluptuous scent. With a heart of crushed violet leaves and hints of lemon, it unfolds like a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers.
Enticing top notes of lemon and spearmint tease the senses, while hints of crushed violet leaves add a fresh yet sensual sparkle. The fragrance lingers delicately on the skin, with sandalwood, sensual musk and clove lending a lasting allure.
Jo Malone fragrances have become an international hit since first appearing on the Oprah show.
Review by Victoria Austin
Le Maroc Pour Elle is one of those exquisitely crafted scents with a lot of presence...opening the vial of Le Maroc Pour Elle, I felt I had loosed a genie from the bottle, and one whiff of this wickedly delicious juice sent me on a sensory magic carpet ride. The combination sent me spinning with warmth until I reached the heights of release to awaken on my beautiful carpet ride overlooking dawn in Casablanca, deeply spent and sighing upon landing to a heavenly, rich ambry/woodsy drydown that lingers from morning to evening on my skin. Le Maroc Pour Elle is a fragrance ancient and dramatic, soulful and earthy. All that and a bag of jewels and silk saris while being chased around the Kasbah by Rudolph Valentino
Le Maroc Pour Elle is not a fragrance for ingénues. It should be worn with a disclaimer. I immediately spritzed and wore this jewel to work. I was nearly trampled at the elevator with people wanting to know what I was wearing. I feel exotic and bejeweled and every bit the beguiling woman with every spritz from the bottle of this masterpiece from Andy Tauer, a fragrance genie!
-Victoria Austin
Santa Maria Novella Rose Rosa Cologne
Symbolizing, love, honor and nobility, these flowers grow wild in the hills of Tuscany where they get their special scent. This fragrance is dedicated to the delicate aroma of the cabbage rose, a flower with millions of years of history. A very feminine, flowery scent with fresh undertones.
SMN Rose Water. This exquisite water infused with rose petals from the Florentine hills is an original recipe known from Dante's time. It is famous for its antiseptic, purifying and anti-oxidant properties, reduces puffiness under the eyes, protects the skin against aggressive environmental elements and relieves tired, aching muscles in the bath.
The Santa Maria Novella Rosewater can also be used as a linen rinse. In the wash, it leaves its incredible rose scent and disinfecting properties on all your washables. Simply add a capful to the rinse cycle, or a tablespoon to the ironing water.
I also use this to spritz in my hair- available Lafco NY
For a comprehensive list of rose fragrances, if you have not yet seen it, please visit Roses and More Roses.
If YOU have a rose fragrance you would love to see here, please email me with your request.
Le Maroc pour elle features the sweet rose of Morocco with Moroccan Petitgrain (bitter orange), French Lavender, red Mandarin, Moroccan Rose absolute, Moroccan Jasmin absolute, Moroccan Cedarwood from the High Atlas, Sandalwood and Patchouli. Le Maroc pour Elle is an exotic feminine scent that evokes the pleasure of passion. His other "rose" fragrance is Incense Rose.
I adore rose fragrances. The Rose is the sacred incarnation of femininity and has an incredible metaphysical, historical, spiritual and ancient medical background that is full of symbolic history. Each of my roses has it's own special siren song that calls to me...For a comprehensive list of rose fragrances, please visit Roses and More Roses. If you have a rose based fragrance that you would like to see here, please email me.
According to Greek mythology, the rose is the flower of love. The rose is one of the planet's oldest living relics making the rose over 35 million years old. Persian Muslim doctor and chemist Ibn Sina or Avicenna first experimented with the rose in the early 11th century and he invented the process of extracting oils from flowers by means of distillation. Until his discovery, liquid perfumes were mixtures of oil and crushed herbs, or petals which made a strong blend. He invented it for the purpose of extracting essential oils, which is used in aromatherapy and perfumes and this procedure is still most commonly used today. Because of this, we have; just the begining of the start of the long history of perfume. The actual cultivation of roses is believed to have begun about 5,000 years ago. Since then they have been used as perfumes, medicinals, and confetti by the ancient Chinese, Romans, Egyptians. During the political struggle for control of England in the 15th century, the white rose was chosen to represent York and the red for Lancaster in what is now know as the "War of the Roses.". In Crete, there are Frescoes which date to c. 1700BC illustrating a rose with five-petalled pink blooms. Discoveries of tombs in Egypt have revealed wreaths made with flowers, with roses among them. The wreath in the tomb of Hawara dates to about AD 170, and represents the oldest preserved record of a rose species still living. During the Roman Empire, peasants were reduced to growing roses instead of food crops in order to satisfy the demands of their rulers. The emperors filled their swimming baths and fountains with rose-water and sat on carpets of rose petals for their feasts and orgies. Roses were used as confetti at celebrations, for medicinal purposes, and as a source of perfume. Heliogabalus used to enjoy showering his guests with rose petals which tumbled down from the ceiling during the festivities. In the seventeenth century roses were in such high demand that roses and rose water were considered as legal tender. In this capacity they were used as barter in the markets as well as for any payments the common people had to make to royalty.
Aromatics Elixir Sheer Velvet Philtre Sensuel by Clinique
Chamomile opens this fragrance with Bulgarian rose. The heart reveals a bouquet of white flowers: ylang-ylang and lily-of-the-valley with jasmine. Patchouli, the original scent’s signature note, is tied to ‘shimmering ribbons’ of vetiver and amber.
Notes:
Chamomile, Bulgarian Rose, Lily-of-the-Valley, Ylang-Ylang, Jasmine, Patchouli, Vetiver, Amber
Tubereuse Indiana by Creed
Tubereuse Indiana created by the revered House of Creed is a beautiful floral blend that revolves around a main note of Indian tuberose touched by a hint of sensual vanilla. It comes in the house’s distinctive bottle, this time topped with a deep onyx cap. A feminine floral fragrance with Indian tuberose, Bulgarian rose, ylang ylang, vanilla and ambergris. This fragrance is very sexy and luscious. One of my top ten.
Notes: Indian Tuberose, Ambergris, Vanilla, Bulgarian Rose and Ylang-Ylang
Fantasia de Fleurs by Creed
Fantasia De Fleurs Perfume is a timeless and elegant perfume based on rose, iris and ambergris fragrances. Fantasia De Fleurs is by no means an old fashioned scent, in fact, it is one of my "top ten" and is very modern to me. You can't get any better with a mixture of Bulgarian rose and ambergris. Top Ten.
It is a rich and regal floral bouquet that features Bulgarian rose, Florentine iris, and an infusion of ambergris. Created in 1862 for Empress Elizabeth of Austria, Fantasia De Fleurs perfume by the revered house of Creed is a timeless scent — one that has had an immense following for more that 140 years. Notes: Florals, Bulgarian Rose, Florentine Iris and Ambergris.
Amouage Homage Attar
This is a huge multifaceted fragrance, filling a room even and this is still one of my top fragrances to own, not because of the five star rating from Luca Turin but because I am fascinated and enthralled as this may be one of the most stunning attars of all time. Amouage introduced the new limited release attar Amouage Homage last winter.
The attar is a heady floral, dominated by Rose Taifi, the finest quality oil extracted from the petals of a rose. Complementing this, the finest Silver Frankincense, Tayyiba, a beautiful blend of Jasmine and Sweet Amber, Silver Oud and Al Andalus, a subtle blend of Citrus and Sandalwood.
A small drop is applied to the pulse points and the extraordinary, fragrance will develop over many hours. This fragrance is anything but subtle, it is a sacred perfume made for Gods and Goddesses.
Parfums de Nicolaï Juste un Reve
Juste un Reve was one of my first niche fragrances and is still a summer favorite.
This is a lush and ambrosial tropical rose which sings of rose, jasmine with a coconut-scented twist. Notes of jasmine, rose, iris, hyacinth and monoi.
A little sweet but not overly so. I prefer this over any of the highly commercial "tropical" fragrances out there-this is a work of art by a master perfumer.
Bond No 9 Broadway Nite
Bond No. 9 is also one of my favorite perfume houses and I have the highest respect and admiration for Laurice Rahme. Considering that I own six Bond No. 9 fragrances speaks a great deal about this company.
"Broadway Night" is named after the NYC Theater District. This is a fantasy floral bouquet that is perfect for a night out on the town.
This heady, sexy and dramatic scent combines Rose, Iris, Honeysuckle, Amber, Vanilla Bean, and Musk.
Montale Oud Queen Roses
The Montale line has many fragrances that have a rose theme and all of them are stunning. This is another magnificent rose fragrance from the Montale oud line, which has several compositions with oud and rose blended together. There are so many Montale fragrances, I have a hard time keeping up with all of them
Aoud Rose Petals is an unusual and complex composition of flowers and woods, in which voluptuos red rose foregoes deep and noble notes of precious woods (oud, Teak, cedar and Guaiac) with spicy nuances (saffron). The perfumer behind this fragrance is Pierre Montale.
Montale also produces these rose based fragrances, all stunning: Aoud Damascus, Aoud Flowers, Attar, (Sandalwood and rose), Roses Musk.
Yves Saint Laurent’s Rive Gauche incarnates the fragrance of a resolutely independent and free-spirited woman . According to the company, RIVE GAUCHE is a state of mind, an attitude, a lifestyle. The bravado of Parisian chic! Free, sexy and unpredictable, Rive Gauche expresses the quintessence of Yves Saint Laurent’s eternal modernity. It is named after the famed street where YSL’s boutique is located. It starts with sparkling aldehyde notes that gradually blend into a luxurious, floral heart.
The popular and much loved fragrance of floral aldehydes has clear woody and aromatic accords. The aldehyde note is surrounded with pelargonium and rose absolute, ending with a combination of oak moss, vetiver, musk and balsamic notes. "Very French'
Clarins Par Amour
This popular fragrance is floral, fruity and woody notes blooming together composed by perfumer Raphael Haury. The top notes are pink pepper and black currant, the heart is composed of Turkish rose and vanilla and the base includes sandalwood and benzoin.
Parfums Gres Cabaret
Seduction was the inspiration for Cabaret by Parfums Gres. This woody floral fragrance is comprised of vibrant floral accords such as rose, lily of the valley, peony, and pink bay layered over middle notes of incense and blue orris, and finished with sensual sandalwood, amber, and musk.
Notes include Rose, Lily of the Valley, Peony, Pink Bay, Blue Orris, Woody/Amber Notes, Violet, Incense Wood, Patchouli, Indian Sandalwood, Amber, Musk.
Editions Frédéric Malle Lipstick Rose
Glamorous, and softly feminine, this fragrance's rose note is enhanced by violet with musk, vanilla, and a hint of vetiver and amber.
Frédéric Malle – whose reputation as a French fragrance connoisseur precedes his boutique UK debut – brings Editions de Parfums to the heralded department. Applying the slogan, “Fragrance without compromise” to his brand ethos, Frédéric Malle’s collection of seventeen exceptional perfumes – each of which bears the name of the creator on the bottle – have been formulated by those whom Malle considers to be the top nine ‘noses’ in the world.
Ce Soir ou Jamais Annick Goutal
Ce Soir Ou Jamais (Tonight or Never...Maybe Forever) was created by Annick Goutal. An infinitely secret whisper, a tender and irresistible proposition. Notes of Turkish rose are enhanced by various flowers and plants for a fresh, intoxicating scent on the skin. Just a hint of sensuality to spice up the season...A combination of 160 notes, among them rose, wild flower, pear and peach, it took Annick Goutal 10 years to create this complex and heady fragrance.
Becoming a perfumer was a natural for Annick Goutal. Born in Aix-en-Provence in 1945, she studied piano until the age of 21, when she met a perfumer from Grasse. She learned that both perfume and music blend a variety of notes to create a pleasing, harmonious composition. When creating her now-legendary fragrances, Goutal artfully wove notes into bouquets of emotion inspired by childhood memories, dreams, and travels. French for "tonight or never," Ce Soir ou Jamais strikes a sensual tone, both in its name and its notes. Legendary perfumer Annick Goutal blended 160 essences, intertwining Turkish rose gardens, cassis, pears, and wild flowers, to create the scent. Notes: Turkish Rose, Wild Flower, Peach, Ambrette Seed
Paul Smith Roses
This fragrance is exceptional fresh & sensual, created by living flower technology and no blooms are harvested nor distilled. Smith was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2001, after nearly three decades as a menswear icon. His collections of clothing and accessories for both men and women are usually identified by the presence of Smith's signature multi-coloured pinstripe motif somewhere on each item.
Pauline Paul Smith's wife gave him a rose for his birthday, which gave him the inspiration to create Rose Fragrance. Paul Smith Rose is the new Paul Smith fragrance for women.A fresh, modern, airy fragrance, introducing an unmistakable note of edgy elegance.A rose fragrance for a new generation. The rose at the heart of this fragrance is one that bears Paul Smith's name and proved to be an inspiration for the fragrance.
Top Notes Paul Smith Rose, Green Tea
Heart Notes; Violet Flowers, Magnolia, Turkish Rose Oil
Base Notes; Soft Musky Base, Cedar Wood
This fragrance is available at numerous locations on the Internet.
Parfums d' Empire Eau Suave was inspired by Empress Josephine, Napoleon's one true love, and her affection for roses. Sophisticated and warm, Eau Suave is the scent of dark-red flowers basking in the golden glow of spices, sweetened by honeyed apricots, peaches and raspberries. Sensual and decadent Eau Suave is a gorgeous rose scent. Complex and multi-faceted, this noble beauty is not your average rose soliflore.
I originally gave this fragrance away, because I did not understand it. My nose was not as experienced as it is today. Recently a new friend at Sniffapalooza urged me to re-sniff this again at Aedes and I literally swooned. Of course, Eau Suave is on my "to purchase" list again.
Eau Suave Notes: pepper, coriander, saffron, Rose de Malmaison, apricot, raspberry, peach, vanilla and musk
Lierre Rose by Parfums 06130
Lierre Rose is a luminous green rose that unfolds into a compositon that combines the honeyed allure of roses with crisp ivy leaves. The floral melange of tuberose, rose and ylang ylang is lit up by the warmth of cardamon. The neroli lifts up the richness of roses.
Lierre Rose is a bouquet masterpiece of fragrant flowers, and when I first tried this, I fell in love.
This creation by perfumer Jacques Chabert.
Lierre Rose Notes
Rose, Cypress, Cardamon, Ylang-Ylang, Grasse Violet, Neroli, Tuberose, Jasmin Petals, Grasse Violet Absolute, Haitian Vetiver Oil, Sandalwood
Very Irrésistible Givenchy
An homage to Givenchy's early days when fashion and cinema were intertwined, Very Irrésistible Givenchy, unites the elegant tradition of French style with the energy and pop-culture pizzazz of American film. Bursting with roses and infused with star anise, and verbena leaf, Very Irrésistible Givenchy is a fresh departure from the traditional floral fragrance. Liv Tyler is the new icon of the 20 and 30-somethings. As impertinent as Audrey, she incarnates the freshness and originality of a perfume composed essentially from roses, the eternally fashionable flower.
Centifolia Rose, Peony Rose, Fantasia Rose, Passion Rose, Emotion Rose, Verbena Leaf, Star Anise.
Téo Cabanel Alahine
I am completely in love with the full line of fragrances of Téo Cabanel, a house of fine French unisex fragrances. I adore all four fragrances. Each fragrance is very unique and "very French" .
Alahine: a captivating soft amber. The has been described as a patchouli and rose combination. Alahine is a distinguished and alluring perfume which will invite you to the warmth mysterious scents of luxurious oriental palaces. To create this captivating sensual fragrance, we use only the finest natural ingredients. The perfumer is Jean-Francois Latty. Alahine takes off with a citrusy top note of bergamot and ylang-ylang. The flowery scents of jasmine and rose are in perfect harmony with spices such as orange tree and pepper plant. Spellbinding and unforgettable, the honeyed rose of Morocco perfectly illustrates the Orient. The sensuous accent gives way to the way to the sweetness and warmth of iris, cistus, patchouli, benjoin, vanilla, sandalwood and musk. Base Notes: Iris concrete, Cistus, Patchouli, Benzoin, Vanilla, Sandalwood, Musk, Middle Notes, Bulgarain Rose, Morrocan, Orange Tree, Jasmine, Pepper Plant, Top Notes Bergamot, Ylang Ylang
Henri Bendel also carries the solids.
Natural Perfume
Jewelry of Heaven
Velvet and Sweet Pea’s Purrfumery
Laurie Stern, another very talented natural perfumer, is the natural perfumer and artist behind Velvet and Sweet Pea’s Purrfumery. Laurie uses her gift for capturing the essence of things and making them change and grow in ways that are beautiful and fun. She now merges all her talents and interests in her true calling as an alchemist for natural perfumery.
This is another gorgeous natural perfume with one of my favorite notes, the Rose. Jewelry of Heaven is a gorgeous homage to the classic 19th century jasmine-rose fond opens the heart with perfumery’s most timeless, most beautiful scents. Organic jasmine grandiflorum and Turkish and Himalayan roses intertwine in a deep, meditative perfume - as languorously sensual as it is serene. This unabashedly beautiful blend is created in a base of Queen Nefertiti and Red Rose infused alcohols.
This fragrance has some of the most expensive ingredients in the world and Laurie Stern is an incredible perfumer who deserves more recognition for her high art of natural perfumery.
"Jewelry of Heaven is my homage to 19th- and early 20th-century perfumes based on the classic jasmine-rose fond. This is a very timeless, serene scent based on rose, jasmine, vetiver, and sandalwood. The perfume has a very pretty, inviting sillage, and dries down to a soft, powdery finish. It’s calming, rich, and floral and gives me a sense of peace whenever I wear it." - Laurie Stern
Histoires de Parfums 1876 Mata Hari Rose épicée
Rose épicée
The fragrance of a femme fatale! 1876 is a full-bodied deep Oriental fragrance and now is on my "to-own" list. After testing at the last Sniffapalooza, I could not get my mind off this one and wondered why I never paid attention to it before.
"Histoires de Parfums 1876 is inspired by Mata Hari, a courtesan and spy. A woman who followed her destiny whenever it led. Mysterious contradictions culminate in this enticing, alluring scent, thus 1876 is a powerful weapon in the war of seduction. Immediately intriguing, this Eau de Parfum is built upon a woman's natural capacity to captivate. 1876 opens with a sparkling fruity nuance derived from French cassis, peach and a hint of black pepper combined with ivy for a green, effervescent scent. At the heart are a bouquet of rich flowers, including Moroccan rose, broom, Indian jasmine and ylang-ylang. Finally, sandalwood, patchouli, vanilla and musk provide a lusty, long-lasting memory.
Gérald Ghislain, Founder of Histoires de Parfums said of 1876: "There is not one rose but many roses: but the one I wanted for 1876 is not the fragile and juvenile rose that is often found in classic perfumery, but the bewitched, spicy one, like the fascinating Mata Hari, whose date of birth named this fragrance. I chose for 1876 the rose of Moldave, woodier, quite somber; I accentuated these notes with vetiver, cumin and sandalwood, and use sweet notes like bergamot, lichee and cinnamon to reveal this rose’s sensuality and transform it into a new rose, a real Oriental flower. " - from article A Dozen Roses Unlike Any Others By Michelyn Camen A MUST read!
Les Parfums de Rosine Rose Praline
The two main passions of Marie-Hélène Rogeon are perfumes and… roses. They are all so different; shy or proud, voluptuous or tender, with multiple shapes and colours, and the infinite variety of perfumes. For her, as a perfumer, Rose Essence and Rose Absolue are the quintessence of all the great perfumes. Marie-Hélène Rogeon built a collection of rose perfumes, all different, from the fresher Un Zest de Rose to the more sensuous Une Folie de Rose.
Created in 2008 by François Robert, on a Marie-Hélène Rogeon’s idea, this is called "an old languid rose". I burst out laughing when
I read this copy off the Les Parfumes de Rosie site, only because it is so far from the truth. Rose Praline was a hot item recently at Aedes and it flew off the shelf within an hour, selling out completely. I was one of those that purchased it. Yes, it is "languid" but far from "old". Old, to me, is withering and dusty, Rose Praline is in fact a gourmand floral and is very feminine and delicious.
As my friends know, I am a huge fan of the Les Parfums de Rosine line.
Top note : Cardamom, Italian bergamot, Rose oil
Heart note : Géranium, Chocolate powder, Rose absolue, Lapsang Souchong tea Base note : Ambre, Sandal wood, Cacao, White musk
Natural Perfume
Roxana Illuminated Perfume Rosa
Rosa
Rosa is a gorgeous natural perfume and an instant hit with those that sniff this natural perfume. Many of us were fortunate to receive samples of Rosa at a Sniffapalooza event where Roxana Villa was a featured guest speaker. Roxana continues to amaze with her naturals perfumes and is garnering quite the reputation as a top natural perfumer. This is a fragrance that truly blooms. I consider this my top "metaphysical perfume" along side Amouage Attar.
“And I will make thee beds of roses
And a thousand fragrant posies.”
- Christopher Marlowe
"The fifth perfume in our series celebrating the aromatic landscape of the State of California is Rosa. Inspiration for this fragrance came when my friend introduced me to the native rose of California. The botanical name for this wild rose is Rosa californica, a five petaled deciduous shrub important to local wildlife. The main notes in this dark and luxurious floral perfume features a heart of Turkish Rose otto, Indian Rose absolute and a complex accord of Rose. Her top note accessories are mainly in the citrus family anchored by musky Agarwood and earthy Vetiver. Our grain and grape alcohol, as well as many of our essences are organic. This earthbound, woody rose botanical perfume has been created by hand utilizing pure, plant essences. 7 grams of pure botanical perfume extrait arrives in a French glass flacon, contained in a Dusty Rose hand crocheted pouch and packaged in a silk lined purple box. Rosa develops into a rich rosy bouquet over time, literally blossoming on the skin of the wearer." - Roxana Villa
The 7 gram flacon and samples are available at http://www.illuminatedperfume.etsy.com/
Read more about this fragrance at the Illuminated Journal: http://journal.illuminatedperfume.com/2008/10/rosa-perfume.html
All rights reserved 2006-2010. All content belongs to Sniffapalooza Magazine. All articles by individual writers and contributors, understand and agree that each article that is accepted by the Editor for publication; becomes the property of Sniffapalooza Magazine for the sole purpose of publication for Sniffapalooza Magazine. Articles may be archived for permanent use on the web site for Sniffapalooza Magazine and for future issues.
All articles remain the property of Sniffapalooza Magazine for display purposes only. Sniffapalooza Magazine is independently owned and operated by Raphaella Barkley.
Sniffapalooza Magazine is independently owned and operated by Raphaella Barkley.
The long awaited Part Four is finally here! Part Four Raphaella’s Roses below features over 110 old and new scents. While most are “straight up” rose scents, others have enough rose in them to add to the list. Surprisingly, during my research, I learned that both a “perfume scientist” and a “fragrance expert” classified certain fragrances as “rose” scents. I had so much fun gathering, what might possibly be, the largest listing of rose fragrances in the world (outside of the work of expert Michael Edwards) There were many roses that I did not include because they were either discontinued or too hard to find to purchase. I do hope you enjoy Part Four of Raphaella's Roses, a huge collection of rose fragrances.
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A Rose Fragrance Collection in Four Parts
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A Rose Fragrance Collection in Four Parts
Part Four continued here on link below...
FORWARD BY BETH GEHRING: I adore roses! I grow many different varieties but my father taught me to especially love the oldest ones, the less pretentious looking ones. In my father’s garden grew old fashioned Rosa Rugosas and lovely blowsy English climbers and at a young age I learned to appreciate how different each variety smelled. Some were sweet and some were spicy and many were musky and heavily reminiscent of a rich sexuality. Roses have been considered sacred throughout all of recorded history and their profoundly simple beauty speaks to the human imagination in a way that almost no other flower does. The fragrance of a rose garden becomes a total symphony at dusk on a warm summer’s eve and it’s almost impossible to choose a favorite variety! One Bourbon rose is exquisite but bourbon mixed with damask.....the combinations of scent is endless and almost impossible to fathom.
So it is with Raphaella’s Rose’s. Created by Raphaella Barkley, you will find a rose fragrance here for absolutely everyone. With the same commitment that she pours into everything that she does, Raphaella has created the most concise compendium of rose fragrances that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Her devotion to her topic is absolute and the information is delivered in a way that is both fun, passionate and without pretension. I’ve never met anyone who loves rose fragrances as much as Raphaella and her complete and obvious adoration for the subject matter is infectious. With her trademark wit and almost encyclopedic knowledge of the subject she’s given us a gift that I know that I’ll return to time and again. My wallet might not be thanking her but my heart definitely is. There is no flower on earth that has the ability to transform and transport my imagination as much as the perfume of one heavenly rose and the perfume of the rose can heal my spirit while delighting all of my senses. Even if you think that you don’t like rose perfumes come and immerse yourself in Raphaella’s world for awhile. You’ll be glad that you did because there is a luscious rose perfume just waiting for you here. I promise!
FORWARD BY CHRISTINE LEWANDOWSKI: Raphaella's Roses have, from the very beginning been a labor of love. It began as an idea to list rose scents because our Editor in chief loves them. Over the life of the magazine, Raphaella’s Roses took on a life of its own, as more and more people responded to this particular section of the magazine. It is little wonder, considering the lengthy and varied history of roses. Indeed, fossil records indicate roses have existed as long as 35 million years ago. Fossilized rose flowers and hips are found in the western United States and in Europe: along with petrified rose wreaths in Egyptian tombs. Most of us are familiar with the many ways in which the rose is used as a symbol. Be it by color, to represent emotions or flower to represent nations. The rose has been used to represent everything from English factions in the War of the Roses, the Rosicrucians, Christian martyrs, the divine feminine, New York City and The Alchemy Guild. A sixteenth century lexicon states that the rose is a symbol that has many very profound meanings in all branches of the Hermetic mystery. The Rosicrucian esoteric fraternity adopted the rose on a cross as their symbol. The cross chosen was one of equal lengths and not the crucifixion cross. Sir Francis Bacon is purported to have been a Rosicrucian and went so far as to wear roses on the toes of his shoes."
The rose has been used in literature from ancient Buddhist and Confucianism, the Old Testament, Shakespeare and Alice in Wonderland. Is it any wonder that the rose and rose fragrances continue to fascinate us? We hope you enjoy this Four Part Series of Raphaella’s Roses.
