Friday, I took what I like to call an 'aromatic interlude' in my day. This means that what was supposed to be a little stroll in the sunshine turned into a mini sniff-a-thon at Nordstrom and Sephora.
Balenciaga perfumes have always been hit and miss for me, but I quite enjoy the 2010 release, Paris, and wanted to try the line's two new releases, Florabotanica and Paris L'Eau Rose. Of course, with Kristen Stewart as the face of Florabotanica, I expected a fruity floral blend targeted at young women fantasizing about their vampire lovers.
Not that there's anything wrong with that.
On a scent strip, Florabotanica had an herbal vibe that piqued my interest. I asked for a sample so I could try it later on my skin while enjoying a glass of wine on Big Red. Same with Paris L'Eau Rose.
Honestly, I don't even remember the last time I scrubbed off a perfume, but Florabotanica drove me to it. Usually, I can wait for the drydown first, but not this time. Screechy and sharp, Florabotanica fails miserably on my skin. With a top note strong as ammonia, I cannot imagine an occasion for which this perfume is appropriate. A huge outdoor wedding would have everyone sniffing the air and asking, 'what stinks?'
Paris L'Eau Rose is less awful, but mind-numbingly dull. Imagine all of the Escada summer fragrances layered on top of one another. Next to L'Eau Rose, even Juicy Couture La La is a perfume of substance, a thought that keeps me up at night.
At this point, I simply hope that some time will pass before Balenciaga releases any more perfumes. At least long enough for the memory of scrubbing to fade.
images from theentertainmentlifestyle.com and mimifroufrou.com