Best Perfumes for Women

Mon Paris Lumiere EDT by YSL

by

Mon Paris Lumiere is another entry from the fairly long-running YSL series. This perfume was released in 2022. I got a sample of this a while ago, with another order of fragrances, so I tested it out for a full review. How does Lumiere smell? Does it last long? Is it worth a try?

What does Mon Paris Lumiere Smell Like?

Notes include: Isparta rose, lemon, jasmine, datura, white lotus, patchouli, musk

My Full Review

Here’s how YSL describes it: A chypre floral aquatic, as radiant and vertiginous as being loved under Parisian skies. The hypnotic fragrance of datura flower is embraced by the radiance of the white lotus flower and the elegance of the Isparta rose heart absolute. The scent of ecstatic love, a clash of light for an everlasting trail. 

Lumiere opens up bright, sweet, with an aquatic/ozonic accord underneath. It makes the floral notes seem like they’re floating in water.

Early, it’s notes of lemon, white lotus, and the datura. A few minutes in, I get some jasmine, but that never feels super powerful in this mix. At least on my skin.

It’s a tad odd, when I smell it sometimes, but I think Lumiere works. I do like the fresh and energizing aroma that this has, even if I’m not sold on the early lemon use.

Early, this does have some distinction from Mon Paris Intensment, which has a fruit-chouli aroma to it. That one joins a lighter datura note with black currant and rose in the early stages.

Here, we get the lighter and ozonic style that works better in the heat, but doesn’t have that same substantial feeling in the first half.

The next phase, is more floral and musky. Less of the ozonic aspect and the citrus will start to fade. It becomes more rosy, less lotus, and the jasmine is still involved. Not dominated by any of the floral notes here. Everything seems balanced for the duration.

Basically, Mon Paris Lumiere will end with it’s floral notes, freshness, patchouli, and musk. Not super deep or complex. More like the others in the series, in the second half of the wear.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

This is a lighter and fresher scent, but Mon Paris Lumiere isn’t one that is super airy or non-detectable. Actually, overall between it’s ability to leave a scent trail and just project more generally, is a bit above average. At least, for a couple of hours.

On my skin, this one will stick around for 6-6.5 hours. It’s nothing that’s going to be a beast performer. It’s just pretty much okay, across the board.

I thought that this might have a bit more to it, than what I actually got. I didn’t expect a completely massive scent, but I did think that I’d get more than six or so hours out of Lumiere.

Seasonally, Lumiere is a warm weather perfume that’s built for spring and summer. It’s not as heavy as others in the series, so, this YSL can be a good change of pace for those who like this formula and want a springtime variant.

It’s more of a daytime wear. It’s not very formal, but it’d work for most circumstances and can be worn by any age. There’s nothing here that is going to be off-putting for most people.

Overall Impressions of Lumiere

Overall, do I like Mon Paris Lumiere? It’s pretty good. It’s probably somewhere between the original and Mon Paris Intensement. I liked Intensement more than the first one. Lumiere isn’t doing anything wholly different or better than either, however.

The lemon and white lotus combination, in the early stages is nice enough. There’s nothing here that blows me away, but this is a likeable release from YSL.

It’s freshness and musk can be a nice pick me up on a warmer day. The rose and jasmine back half is fine, it’s been done a million times, we’re not breaking much new ground with this perfume.

Lumiere is pretty much a true flanker fragrance, not really going way off in the other direction versus others from the Mon Paris lineup.

Likeable at full price? Probably not. If another from the Mon Paris series is one of your signature scents, you’ll almost certainly like this one. If you didn’t care for one the others, this one isn’t likely to make you a new fan.

A pretty good perfume, with fairly average performance. Get it for a discount, if you can. Or, just skip it entirely.

Gold Knight by Kilian

by

Gold Knight is a fragrance sample that I’ve had sitting in a box for many months now. I tested it out a few times, but never got around to putting my thoughts about it down. Well, I essentially forgot about it for a while, and rediscovered it more recently. How does it smell? When should it be worn? Is it worth a try? Find out below.

What does Gold Knight Smell Like?

Notes include: anise, vanilla, bergamot, patchouli, honey, amber

My Full Review

The aroma of Gold Knight immediately reminds me of Opium Pour Homme, with that anise note up top. Vanilla, anise, and bergamot are here (in lieu of the black currant); along with a general warm amber thickness.

However, it’s definitely not the same as that YSL. Here, it actually is a sweeter honey/amber combination. The spice of the anise is flatter in Gold Knight and it lacks much of the balsamic and smoky notes of that fragrance.

To me, this Kilian is sort of like taking Opium and blending it with Grand Soir. The amber and vanilla notes are especially prominent, as this dries down and that’s basically what that Kurkdjian perfume is.

So, opening up you get a blend of spice and sweetness, both of which are tempered by that thick amber quality. The anise is nice and paired with a delicious honey note early on. Just a hint of the citrus and the opening act is quite attractive here.

The early stages are sweet with the anise giving things a nice added kick of spice. The bergamot hangs around for a little while, but will fade.

The anise also fades, just not entirely until later. This is when Gold Knight starts to really resemble Grand Soir, which I’m not that big of a fan of. Honeyed amber and vanilla with a touch a patchouli to dirty things up…which separates Gold Knight from that perfume.

That’s pretty much what I get for the rest of the wear.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

The sillage here is good, but not enormous on my skin. It’s pretty steady through most of the wear and I’d call it on the upper end of moderate.

The longevity is very good, even if Gold Knight isn’t entirely beast mode. As I’ve tested it out, Gold has stayed around for at least 9 hours and can venture into double digits. Now, those last hours are basically skin scent level, but very detectable.

Seasonally, this one for the autumn and winter months. It’s warmth, spice, and thicker constitution aren’t going to be great once the heat and humidity kicks in.

Gold Knight is listed as a fragrance for men. But, it’s actually quite unisex. Opium Pour Homme had more intensity and spice, that made it masculine. This is softer and easy to wear for anybody.

During that time frame, it’s safe to wear basically anywhere. It probably won’t lend itself to most high school students, but outside of that, it’s office safe. It can venture into the nightlife and be able to draw complements and not negative attention.

Overall Impressions of Gold Knight

Overall do I like Gold Knight? I do like it, but I also don’t want a full bottle of it. I like the similarities to Opium, which I used to wear a lot, but I still think that the YSL is a better scent. Plus, the back half here isn’t all that exciting.

Pleasant, sure. But, it doesn’t really do all that much for me. If you’re a fan of this kind of vanilla and amber (honey) combination, it could for sure be one to pick up.

The opening with the mix of anise spice and balanced sweet notes is worthwhile, I wish there were more of that or something else going on thereafter to really catch my attention.

The performance is good and it provides plenty of utility, as a versatile unisex perfume.

When I think of Gold Knight, the phrase ‘it’s fine’ comes to mind. Some people will absolutely love this stuff and it is generally highly rated.

To me, it’s a slightly worse version of a scent that I really did love at one point, and another that I never fully ‘got’. Kilian has better fragrances than this, but it’s also not among their worst. For the price, I do want something beyond what Gold Knight provides.

10 Perfumes Similar to Flowerbomb

by

Viktor & Rolf’s Flowerbomb is an almost constant best seller and at some times, feels ubiquitous, as you can smell it around so often. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as it does indeed have a very nice aroma, and it’s clear why it sells so well.

The thing is, there are also plenty of women, who want an alternative option, a cheaper perfume, or what have you. In this post, I want to give ten perfumes, which can compare to Flowerbomb’s smell fairly effectively.

Favorite perfumes that smell like Flowerbomb

viktor rolf review

One Option 

Gourmand White Flowers by Dossier– If you want a cheaper alternative to Flowerbomb, which seeks to come close to the original, Gourmand White Flowers from Dossier will give you the best bang for your buck.

Gourmand White Flowers is nearly identical to what you get with the V&R original. I will say, most of the time, these cheaper ‘inspired fragrances’ nail the opening act. But, the dry down can be slightly different or not as deep.

Gourmand actually gets it almost perfect and really any differences, won’t be noticeable unless you’re already super familiar with Flowerbomb. Even then, minor.

The Second Inspiration

Reborn Lust by Oakcha– Reborn Lust is the inspired interpretation of our Viktor & Rolf target perfume, by Oakcha. Oakcha has been coming out with a lot of inspired takes on the most popular fragrances and seems to have a good track record.

I haven’t tried this one out, as of yet, but came across it and wanted to add it to the list. It should provide a really close comp, based on the reviews, and at a much better price point.

To quote their ad copy: a scent that is both suggestive and irresistible. Whether you’re looking to awaken your senses or add a touch of intrigue to your evening.

Sounds about right, as to what we’re looking for. Leaving it here for those that want to try.

Ruby Orchid Alt

Floral Explosion of Orchids– The Dua Brand makes the list, but not for a direct imitation of the original Flowerbomb. Rather, it’s for their take on the flanker scent, Flowerbomb Ruby Orchid.

I don’t like it quite as much as the original, but it is still among the better releases from V&R. Peach, orchid, vanilla bean, and peach vine make up the perfume itself. Simple yet captivating.

Now, the Dua alternative will mimic what you get from Ruby Orchid pretty closely. Close to the original Flowerbomb, just with a peach note in place of the osmanthus, and it gives the scent a jammy sort of smell.

The vine gives it a slightly green aroma for a time, while the back half is focused more on the ruby orchid and vanilla bean, with the peach taking on a smaller role.

A great option for those who want something close to the original Flowerbomb, while taking things in a new direction.

Exploding Flowers

Petal Explosion by ALT Fragrances– Another Inspiration, this time from ALT Fragrances. I haven’t tried this one out either, but I have experienced a few of this brand’s other inspired takes on designer scents.

Those worked out well and struck a close chord to what they were going for. This one is another extrait de parfum strength and also vegan friendly.

As of writing, a bottle of Petal Explosion is $29.99, roughly on par with the previous two entries on the list. If this one comes close to what you get with Flowerbomb, it should be a good deal.

Similar, Inexpensive, Less Floral Notes

One Direction Between Us Eau de Parfum Spray for Women, 1.7 Ounce– This perfume from One Direction is actually pretty close to the smell of Flowerbomb, maybe with slightly less flowers. Nonetheless, you get a nice blend of spice courtesy of patchouli and nutmeg.

Along with, vanilla and amber. In lieu of orchid, you get jasmine here, with a few other floral notes which aren’t too powerful. But, ultimately its a darn good impression of Flowerbomb, at a fraction of the price.

Update: This one has been discontinued for a while now. Bottles are still floating around, but they might not be as cheap anymore.

Inexpensive and Similar 

Hanae Mori Hanae Eau de Parfum spray, 3.4 Ounce– Shares plenty with Flowerbomb, in terms of floral notes and patchouli. However, Hanae Mori EDP is sweeter than the Viktor & Rolf, with its use of strawberries and other fruits.

Oh, and add a solid amount of vanilla, and you’ve got a Flowerbomb alternative with a fruity/sweet profile. This one sort of splits the difference between Flowerbomb and La Vie Est Belle.

Although, I think it is closer to what we want here. Usually, a bottle can be had in the $30-40 range, so you get a nice bargain.

The Other Similar Designer Option

La Vie Est Belle by Lancome for Women 3.4 oz L’Eau de Parfum Spray– Not really a cheaper option to Flowerbomb, but La Vie Est Belle is quite similar. This has less of the patchouli emphasis, but with a nice black currant note, along with caramel and vanilla.

Still warm, with less spice and earthiness. Fruity and clean, with enough quality and elegance to match our target perfume. I’m not sure that I prefer this one above Flowerbomb, as I definitely like the opening act in that fragrance, more so.

However, La Vie does give you a different take and can often be found for a lower price in comparison. La Vie est Belle Review


High End, In the Same Ballpark

MONTALE Vanilla Extasy Eau de Parfum Spray, 3.3 Fl Oz– Montale’s Vanilla Extasy has a similar style to Flowerbomb, while also being completely distinct from our target.

Apricot and the flower blossom are prevalent up top giving this one a fruity/vanilla aroma. This one is less floral, more vanilla, and resinous than the V&R perfume. Yet, there is still plenty of floral influence in this fragrance and it isn’t just another warm vanilla scent.

The opening act, is where it is closest to being like that of Flowerbomb. As it dries down, Vanilla Extasy starts to bring out more of its woody/resinous aromas to go along with the signature vanilla. Not the same as Flowerbomb, but is kind of like a flanker edition of it.

More Vanilla and a Sheer Fragrance

KORRES Vanilla Freesia Lychee Women’s Eau de Toilette, 1 fl. oz.– This one starts off with lychee and patchouli, and then later, moves more into the freesia and vanilla. Another example, with a weaker patchouli versus Flowerbomb, and probably a lighter perfume overall.

However, this Korres scent, does give you a nice vanilla sweetness to go along with the floral aroma of freesia. Strikes a closely related chord to the Viktor & Rolf.

Cheaper but Sweeter

Katy Perry Killer Queen Eau de Parfum Spray for Women, 3.4 Ounce– You get a sweet gourmet top, with praline and fruits, mostly its berries. However, there is a light citrus aroma at the start, from bergamot.

The opening act is very berry heavy, though, not as good as the opening of our target. It does get more floral and has powdery quality along with the praline note in the base. Not an exact match, but for like $20, it’s not a bad rendition.

While this is another sweet scent, Killer Queen, adds in a solid bit of patchouli to rough things up a bit. It’s still sweet and girly, but the patchouli and jasmine, bring this Katy Perry perfume closer to Flowerbomb. Like, a more youthful and fruity sweet, version.

Coco Mademoiselle vs Mademoiselle Intense Comparison

by

Chanel’s Coco Mademoiselle line is insanely popular and the original EDP is still going strong after two decades. One of the flanker fragrances, that the brand released over the years is Coco Mademoiselle Intense. When in the market for one of these fragrances, the decision can often come down to which one of these you prefer. But, which one is actually better? Lasts longer? Is the one to buy?

Tale of the Tape: Coco Mademoiselle EDP vs. EDP Intense

Coco Mademoiselle

Notes include: orange, neroli, may rose, patchouli, vetiver, jasmine

Click here to try: Coco Mademoiselle

Read my full review: Coco Mademoiselle EDP

Coco Mademoiselle EDP Intense

Notes include: patchouli, amber, tonka bean, vanilla, orange, jasmine, rose, musk

Click here to try: Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Intense Eau De Parfum Spray, 1.7 Oz 

Read my review: Coco Mademoiselle Intense

Opening

Mademoiselle EDP starts off with a strong blend of its orange citrus note, neroli, and patchouli. The opening stage is heavy on that orange, before ceding some ground to the floral heart, made up of jasmine and a bit of rose.

It’s bold and have a somewhat gourmand feeling, thanks to the pretty prevalent patchouli. 

Mademoiselle Intense also features the citrus opening, but it is toned down quite a bit. What is amped up in the composition is the patchouli and amber note coming from the base. It is a more powerful opening than even the strength of the original. 

You will also get some of the vanilla, jasmine, and tonka bean. Though, they aren’t that strong early on.

Which is better? I prefer the citrus blend of orange and neroli, in the original Mademoiselle. You still get the patchouli note, but it is a bit more balanced in comparison.

Edge: Mademoiselle

Projection

Yes, Intense does open even stronger than the original EDP version. However, it doesn’t maintain that large of a distinction for the entirety of the wear.

Both of these are perfumes with a heavier sillage than your average popular perfume. They do each mellow out some over the first few hours, but keep up the ability to project or leave a scent trail quite well.

Intense does have the edge in this category, but it’s a lot closer than you’d expect from that opening.

Edge: Intense

Longevity

Both fragrances last on my skin for over 10 hours. I don’t really notice much, if any distinction, in this category. Perhaps, Intense will get you an extra bit of time, but I haven’t really experienced that.

Again, it’s another category that you might expect some massive or at least a substantial difference, but every time with either of these Coco Mademoiselle offerings it’s basically equal.

Edge: Push

 

Versatility

Again, I don’t see a distinction between these two Chanel scents, in this category. Neither is going to be something to wear in the heat, but are fine elsewhere.

Also, that can pretty much be worn whenever…maybe not the most formal settings, but otherwise they can work.

Mostly, autumn through springtime, as a daily wear. You can wear it to school, office, casually, or even for an evening out. Very versatile perfume, which is a part of the popularity of both Mademoiselle and Intense.

Edge: Push

Overall Scent

This is actually a close call, as both of these perfumes are great. Coco Mademoiselle Intense has more emphasis on the patchouli and amber aspects of the formula, with even a hint of extra rose. Though, the citrus is toned down.

It’s a bit stronger and has the same great performance as the original. However, I don’t think that it smells any better, and doesn’t bring all that much new to the table. 

Between them, I have a slight preference for the original EDP. It has the strong orange note which I enjoy and less of the patchouli which I have a lower preference for.

It’s not a huge win, and for those who want less citrus, you might consider the Intense or EDT versions versus the original. 

Or again, if you’re a bigger fan of that patchouli note. Other than that, there is a ton of overlap between these two fragrances. Most of the difference comes down to preference about how each note is weighted in the composition.

Winner: Mademoiselle

9 Perfumes Similar to Gucci Bloom

by

Gucci Bloom has become a very popular fragrance since its release in 2017. Bloom has in a short period of time spawned a number of flanker perfumes bearing its name. When something achieves this sort of status in the fragrance world, people will no doubt be looking for similar smells, styles, or just cheaper alternatives to the best seller.

In this post, I want to present nine perfume options that can serve as alternative scents to Gucci Bloom.  Some will be inspired by Bloom, while others are just going to have similarities in style.

Fragrances Like Gucci Bloom

Inexpensive Option

Floral Honeysuckle by Dossier– So far this is the only ‘inspired’ aroma of Bloom that I’ve found (update: the one below, too) and it runs $39 per bottle (as of publishing). It is a cheaper cost versus a bottle of the real thing from Gucci.

Now, I haven’t tried this one in particular out yet. Dossier usually has some very good renditions of popular scents and it shouldn’t be too difficult to match the aroma of Gucci Bloom, since it’s not overly complicated. Plus, the reviews seem to be overwhelming positive. 

Second Inspiration

Jasmine Blossom by Oakcha– Here’s the second ‘inspired by’ perfume that I’ve found of Bloom. This one is by the brand Oakcha which describes it thusly, “It’s like a breath of fresh springtime. As you walk among the blooming flowers, you can’t help but feel uplifted.”

The notes are the same as the Gucci and the formula is an Extrait de Parfum strength, which hopefully gives it some extra staying power. Also, an affordable price, with sample sets available, if you’d want to try some of the other fragrances that they have.

Appears to be a good value and I’ve read positive things about the brand. So, maybe worth a try if you want an attempt at matching the Gucci formula, as close as possible.

Best Cheap Alternative

Kim Kardashian for Women By Kardashian Edp Spray, 3.4 Ounce– This is a fragrance for floral loves, as it is highlighted by gardenia and tuberose. Kim Kardashian for Women, is a very pretty, upbeat, and feminine fragrance. It mostly the white floral notes with a creamy and slightly woody undertone.

The main difference with between Kim Kardashian for Women and Gucci Bloom is the gardenia. In the KKW fragrance, it is the most prevalent ingredient. Nonetheless, you do get a full white floral array. 

At times, you will experience a creamy sandalwood or a bit of musk, but mostly you will get a great floral-based fragrance for really cheap. Beyond the gardenia and tuberose, there is orange blossom, and a good deal of jasmine.

This fragrance is very well done and super attractive. The end of the wear, has more of the wood note and musk, but the main draw of gardenia still reigns supreme. One of the better performing scents of the line, in terms of staying power.

Woodier and Earthy

Michael Kors By Michael Kors For Women. Eau De Parfum Spray 3.4 Ounces
A fresh and somewhat heavier than usual, white floral fragrance, that features some musk/woodsy spice.

Tuberose, peony, musk, cashmere woods, and freesia are some of the featured notes. Daytime, casual wear. The tuberose dominates the composition, with light musk, and a noticeable freesia note.

It gives off a semi-sweet and creamy sort of aroma, that is none too complex, but quite well done. During the dry down, more lily emerges from the floral accord. Michael Kors for Women, is delightful, and a good daily wear for any age group.

This scent has a woodier and earthier presence, than does Bloom. It shares that same tuberose note, but with the woods, and musk creating a slight distinction. 

White Floral with Fruity Touches

TOCCA Eau de Parfum Florence 1.7 oz– Florence is an entry for those who love gardenia dominated perfumes. It’s got a clean, crisp, and watery background thanks to the fruity additions of apple and mostly pear.

Beyond that, you do get the usual gardenia pairing with tuberose, but the latter isn’t that strong. A very nice white floral perfume. The apple and pear notes, change up the feeling versus Bloom.

While this is in the same overall family, this Tocca scent is like a lighter fruitier version of the Michael Kors perfume above. 

Lighter on the Tuberose

Bond No. 9 Central Park South Eau de Parfum Spray for Women, 3.3 Fl Oz– Central Park South is a very bold white floral fragrance. Jasmine, lily of the valley, and grapefruit blossom lead the way.

Seriously, the sillage here is huge, and it’s the type of fragrance that can fill up a room.

This one is dominated by jasmine throughout the wear and the rest of the notes in the composition, have a green garden-like aroma to it.

The projection is not only huge, Central Park South also lasts for a long tie. This doesn’t have the same tuberose strength, as Gucci Bloom, but has a greener aroma that our target scent lacks. 

 

 

More Tuberose and Muskier 

Diptyque Do Son Eau de Parfum Spray for Women, 2.5 Ounce– A scent for the floral lovers out there. Do Son features notes such as tuberose, iris, rose, and orange flower. More of a fresh and natural kind of fragrance.

There are two versions of Do Son, the EDP (linked above) and the EDT. Slightly different from one another, however. The EDT has some powdery elements (iris), like Bloom, while the EDP doesn’t really. It is also less of a musk based scent than is the EDT.

Specifically, Do Son, is for those who are looking for a tuberose perfume. That is the most dominant of the floral notes inside of this one. It’s a very realistic rendition of tuberose, with some nice pink pepper, and greenish notes flanking this scent.

Later, it becomes creamier, and there is a healthy dose of musk in the base of this perfume.

A More Tropical Floral Take

Beyond Paradise By Estee Lauder For Women. Eau De Parfum Spray 1.7 Ounces– Beyond Paradise isn’t a one to one comparison with the Bloom line. However, the floral notes, greenish aroma, and semi-aquatic feeling at times is very similar.

White floral notes with some fruity influence throughout and a bit of underlying spice. As it moves along, the flowers such as lily, honeysuckle, and gardenia dominate and the fruits fade to the background.

It has berry and citrus notes on top, which separates it from our target, but this is much more of a floral/fruit perfume first. It can be an interesting change of pace for the warmer weather, with its more exotic and tropical floral profile.

Similar to Bloom Gocce 

TOCCA Eau de Parfum Florence 1.7 oz– Tocca’s Florence is sort of a mix of a few Bloom scents and Crystal Gardenia by Kim Kardashian. Not a clone of any, but this hits in the same ballpark.

To me, it smells closest to Gocce di Fiori from the Bloom line. That one is a jasmine and tuberose blend, lighter and fresher than others from the Gucci line.

Florence is a fragrance for those who enjoy gardenia dominated perfumes. It’s got a clean, crisp, and watery background thanks to the fruity additions of apple and mostly pear.

The gardenia takes the role of the jasmine and it mixed with tuberose, giving you a very wearable white floral scent. The pear in the opening creates a sparkling aroma, but that will give way to more of a pure floral.