SOTD — Creed Iris Debonair I was able to score a tester of the new Creed Iris Debonair pre-release last week at a really good price, so of course I had to give it a proper wearing. This is definitely a different direction for Creed. Right away you get that smooth, powdery iris with a little pepper and lavender around it, but it doesn’t come across overly lipstick-like to me. Once it settles down, the iris gets creamier and the sandalwood and musk start showing up, giving it a much smoother, slightly woody feel. There are going to be Dior Homme comparisons, especially early on, and I understand why. But after it develops, I think Iris Debonair starts separating itself. It feels a little airier, cleaner and more polished rather than being that dense makeup-bag iris style. What I like most is the balance. It has some sweetness, but it isn’t really a sweet fragrance. It is floral without feeling feminine, powdery without becoming dusty, and has enough woods underneath it to keep everything grounded. Projection and sillage have been very good so far without it being obnoxious. This smells more like something I would wear dressed up, dinner, evening out or when I just want something a little more refined. Is Creed reinventing iris here? No. But they did a very good Creed interpretation of it, and I think this is one of their more interesting recent releases. I need a few more full wearings before I decide where it ranks in the Creed lineup, but my first impression is definitely positive. Iris Debonair is one I think people are going to be talking about once it officially hits the shelves.

Good morning gentlemen. Another one from the Crown shaving company. Yesterday was a signature blend today. Another cool cloudy day I went with this. It’s quite unique.

Good morning gentlemen. Nice, easy reach fresh citrus summertime. Perfect for the gym Perfect for Work.

I know this fragrance isn’t for everyone but it’s a powerhouse. The notes blend together nicely and the longevity is nearly endless. The fiery ginger & juicy pineapple notes ignite the senses, while creamy coconut wood deepens the allure. Anchored by sensual ambergris, sandalwood, and tonka bean, this scent is crafted to captivate.

Friday in NY, and today I reached for Balliamo from Bottega Veneta. After a pretty full week, this one just felt right. Balliamo literally means “let’s dance” in Italian, and there is definitely something more relaxed and playful about this fragrance — but still with that polished Bottega Veneta character I’ve really come to enjoy. It opens bright and energetic with pomelo, citron and fresh pepper, giving it a crisp citrusy spice right away. Then the fragrance becomes much more interesting. There is myrtle, lavender and white fig in the heart, which gives it this green, aromatic and slightly creamy quality before it settles into cedar, vetiver and Ambronova. What I like is that it feels fresh without being simple. The fig adds a little richness. The pepper keeps it lively. And the cedar and vetiver give it enough structure that it still feels completely appropriate for an office day. With temperatures a little cooler here on Long Island today, it also feels like a very comfortable way to finish out the workweek. Maybe that is part of Friday for me. Polished enough for the office. Relaxed enough for Friday. And just a little reminder that life should have some fun in it too.