Parfums de Marly Herod – A Refined Ode to Tobacco and Spice Herod was my second PDM purchase; the first was, of course, Layton. This was bought on a whim. I was in a meeting scrolling on my phone when the ad popped up on Fragrancebuy.ca. The ask was $125 for a 2.5-oz bottle. I quickly checked online reviews and ordered it. I really have no criticisms, it offered way more than I was expecting and solidified my decision to make PDM a very important house at the start of the collecting process. Overview: Herod is widely regarded as one of the crown jewels in Parfums de Marly’s collection—a fragrance that embodies sophistication and warmth. Designed for cooler weather, this Eau de Parfum offers a luxurious woody-spicy profile that feels both opulent and comforting. Opening – A Spicy Invitation The journey begins with an assertive yet elegant burst of cinnamon and peppercorns, immediately setting a warm and inviting tone. This spicy introduction is not harsh; rather, it feels smooth and refined, drawing you in with a sense of anticipation. Heart – Tobacco Elegance with an Exotic Twist As the top notes settle, Herod unveils its true character: a rich, aromatic heart dominated by tobacco leaf, complemented by incense, ciste resin, and osmanthus. The tobacco note is particularly noteworthy—it carries a subtle sweetness reminiscent of cherry or shisha, adding depth and sensuality. The interplay of incense and resin creates a smoky, slightly mysterious aura, while osmanthus lends a delicate floral nuance that keeps the composition balanced. Dry-Down – Comforting Warmth and Longevity The base is where Herod truly shines. A creamy blend of vanilla pods, musk, cedarwood, vetiver, and patchouli forms a long-lasting, gourmand foundation. The vanilla is smooth and indulgent, softening the smoky edges of tobacco and spice, while cedar and vetiver provide structure and earthiness. This combination results in a musky, cozy finish that feels like a warm cashmere blanket on a crisp evening.

Dua Fragrances is dropping a highly diverse collection of new inspirations this Friday, December 5th, at 6 PM PST! They've included some deep niche cuts, rare exclusives, and DDL line bargains. MASSIVE URGENCY: The 38% sitewide discount (Dua's largest of the year) is still active for ALL fragrances, but it can stop at any moment. 💎 Niche & Rare Inspirations ($55 USD, Limited Units!): - All Hail The Queen: Inspired by God Save The Queen (Sense of Scent). Only 80 units! - Cup of Kawa: Inspired by Kawa Karda (Atelier des Ors). A sophisticated Coffee & Cardamom blend. Only 80 units! - Imperial Wood: Inspired by Bois Impérial (Essential Parfums). A sharp, modern woody masterpiece (Quentin Bisch DNA). 160 units. - Moroccan Royalty: Inspired by Tamima (Moresque). Oriental and woody profile. 160 units. - Floral Love 214: Inspired by Krigler Moment 214. Fresh & sweet floral blend. - Forever A Lady!: Inspired by Ladylike (M. Micallef). Fruity, Musky Gourmand (Cherry Liqueur, Lychee). ✨ DDL (Dua Designer Line/Gourmand Line) & Hybrids ($33 USD, Bargain Prices!): These DDLs are at an entry-level price, even before the 38% discount (if they keep it)! - DDL Luxurious Spa Day (Original): A fluffy, rich, Cotton Candy/Vanilla Frosting Gourmand! - DDL Echoes Between Pages: Inspired by Whispers in the Library (Maison Margiela) — Notes of Vanilla, Waxed Wood, and Paper. 160 units. - DDL Sunrise Glow: Inspired by Shaouq (Anfas). Exotic, Oriental, and Spicy! Only 80 units. - DDL Coconut Sugar Fig: Inspired by Brown Sugar Fig (BBW). - DDL Poisoned Leather: Inspired by Cuir Venenum 03 (Pierre Guillamane). A deep leather inspiration. - Another 46 Shades of Santal: A fantastic Hybrid of Another 13 x Santal 33 (Le Labo). Which rare inspiration are you setting your alarm for this Friday at 6 PM PST?

Although i wanted my new frags to sit on the shelves for a bit, I have to say I was tempted to wear this one today. Same magic but slightly weaker than the discontinued version. But i wanted to know, would the performance of a fragrance improve the longer the bottle sits?

Floral (gardenia, jasmine), spicy, bit sweet opening Very mild caramel and coffee notes almost negligible A bit synthetic but not offensive For me it is more feminine leaning Great projection and sillage Can be used in the office with few sprays and great for semi formal gatherings Best for Fall and Winter Powdery, creamy, woody, still floral on dry down Great longevity Very discernible for 3-4 hours and stays as a skin scent for 6-8 more hours Traditional star-shaped bottle, high-shine royal blue color, good atomizer Great overall performance I would recommend BN9 New York Nights ⭐⭐⭐ This fragrance is very linear and nothing extraordinary If you are expecting a caramel/coffee forward scent, you will be disappointed A supposed clone is Emper Night Party edp which is a very watered-down version, rating it 7/10 similarity.. Another clone is Jo Milano's GoS Moon which I might do a separate review..

Today I'm wearing DARING SAFFIANO from the COLLECTION HUGO BOSS. AN EDP. Released in 2021. A leathery floral olfative family fragrance. THE nose behind This fragrance Is Dominique Ropion. It opens with energetic davana note, in the middle I found a deligthful geranium and OSMANTHUS notes and finished with with Patchouli and fine Leather notes. A masculine elegant classy and Easy wear fragrance for all days and all ocations a safe Office for all seasons. A deligthful drydown with geranium/ oshmanthus/ Patchouli/ leather notes. Projection 4-5hrs Sillage 2mts Stay on skin 7-9hrs.