Some thirty years ago, I searched for a signature fragrance. My mother wore Chanel No. 5. I wanted something more modern, subtle. I tried Ungaro, Issey Miyake, Creed (the scent of Jackie O and Princess Grace). All seemed too strong for me. I smelled something wonderful on a friend and inquired what she wore. Of course, perfume interacts with one’s body chemistry individually, yet I tried her brand.
Carolina Herrera Parfum is described as “lively blends of apricot, orange blossom, Brazilian Rosewood, bergamot and crisp green notes to exude mystery and intrigue; accentuate feminine appeal”…sophistication.
I would feel naked without it.
#RetroFlash; 100 words
Betsy PfauRetired from software sales long ago, two grown children. Theater major in college. Singer still, arts lover, involved in art museums locally (Greater Boston area). Originally from Detroit area.
Characterizations:
right on!, well written
TerrificRetroFlash Betsy. I would have never thought of a perfume in response to this prompt — though I am sure that that is at least partly gender-based. But this is certainly as much a “can’t leave home without it” for you as my prosaic little teddy bear was for me, as you make wonderfully clear in just 100 words. And you also make an incisive point about yourself, and about your own uniqueness, with this story.
A perfect last line, too. Indeed, you should offer to sell it to the Caroline Herrera marketing people as their slogan.
Thanks, John. I decided to go with something less obvious and do wear my perfume all the time, so there you have it.
It was a stroke of genius, Betsy, and do hope you “monetize” your sexy slogan.
Again, thank you. It is a small brand. I don’t think they care about my ramblings, but who knows.
Me too Betsy, I’ve never worn makeup save lipstick, but never leave the house without a spray of # 5!
And yes we all have put own favored scents. For our Fragrant Flashbacks prompt you may remember I wrote a bittersweet story about my aunt Frances who wore White Shoulders. Years after Frances died, I was with my mother in a department store and we chanced to smell it on a stranger as she walked past us. Then I saw my mother was crying.
Yes, scent is very powerful, Dana. I remember those great White Shoulders TV commercials, very sexy!
Love the description, like a fine wine!
I found the description on its website. You’re right, it does resemble the description of a fine wine!
Love this, Betsy. Now I want to go to a department store and check the scent out for myself. Carolina Herrera is (was) one of my favorite designers of gowns–they are so elegant and flattering, sophisticated as well. I bet the scent is like that, too.
I, too, love the sophistication of her clothing line, though I can’t afford any of it Marian. I loved the wedding gown she did for Caroline Kennedy (and Jackie’s dress for the occasion as well). Unfortunately, I can’t find the perfume in any department store any longer. I buy it online. As I mentioned to John, it is a small, niche brand. I recently got a good price on it at perfume.com.
I love this RetroFlash, Betsy. I haven’t worn perfume for ages but this tempts me to try again. Your description was so inviting.
Glad I inspired you, Laurie.
Wonderful RetroFlash, Betsy! I too am tempted to try out Carolina Herrera, although I normally never wear perfume. Maybe if we can manage to get together in May 2022 when I am in MA for my reunion, I can try yours.
Happy to give you a spritz of mine, Suzy.
I had no idea that a perfume blends with a specific body chemistry, but of course it does. I read a fascinating, ominous, and sexy novel by the German author Patrick Suskind. Beyond it’s tingling sensuality, it describes in great detail how perfumes developed over the centuries. I don’t think I made it through the movie adaptation, but I recommend the novel.
Yes indeed, Charles. Perfume smells different on each person, based on the body chemistry. I guess the mantra of the day can still be: follow the science. Several years ago I went to a perfume factory in the south of France, Grasse I believe, – also fascinating.