For as long as I can remember, I have been obsessed with finding a signature scent, that single, elusive fragrance with that magical combination of scent, packaging, marketing, and that indefinable quality that makes it uniquely, unmistakeably suited for me. I have yet to find it, though I’ve come pretty close. Instead, I’ve been something of a serial scent monogamist, drifting from one long term relationship to another, never completely settling on a single fragrance. Over the years, I have worn Obsession, Chanel No. 5., Amarige, Diorissimo, Ma Griffe, Angel, Flowerbomb, and most recently, Lola. Since I became a mother, the pressure to find THE scent has increased, because I have this sentimental notion that my daughers will come to associate it with me, and that it will always remind them of me as they grow older. But, with the recent completion of my gorgeous bottle of Lola, a gift from my dear friend Marcie, I have decided that it’s time to find my next signature scent, or not. Maybe my daughters don’t need me to have a signature scent, and maybe, just maybe, neither do I. And, maybe, just maybe, by taking this whole signature scent thing so seriously, I have neglected to enjoy, celebrate, and indulge in the mood-altering abilities of fragrance. My friend Molly, a true fragrance fanatic, collects scents the way that I collect shoes, and she truly enjoys them. Maybe there’s a lesson to be learned there. For years, I’ve shied away from scents that I adore because they weren’t sophisticated or complex enough to be The One. Now, I am going to wear exactly what suits my mood at the moment, what feels right and lifts my spirits and suits the season. So, in honor of summertime, here are my favorite light, citrus-y summer scents:
1. Lavanila Vanilla Grapefruit: I was recently scent a retro, rollerball vial of this, and I am addicted. It’s so light and bubbly and easy to wear!
2. Fresh Lemon Sugar: I have been a huge fan of Fresh since it’s early days in Boston, back when I lived right down the street from the flagship store. The Sugar collection, from the face products to the lip balm to the candles, and especially the fragrance, have been particular favorites. The combination of tart and sweet just says summer to me.
3. Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo Arancia: I took this along on my honeymoon to St. Barth’s, and the soft, fruity scent and luxurious products (I especially love the Relaxing Body Cream) still take me back to that romantic time.
4. Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Pamplelune: Sunny yet sophisticated, this is the perfect marriage of chic and easy-to-wear.
5. Hermes Un Jardin Sur Le Nil: I just bought a bottle of this in Chicago, and if any scent could win me over right now, this could be it. Besides the fitting name (A Garden on the Nile, in French, and I’m Egyptian – ta da!), the combination of lotus, green mango and grapefruit just speaks to me. I just wish I loved the bottle better.
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