Joy by Dior Eau de Parfum

RRP: from £54 for 30ml

--What does the promo say?--
"The new JOY by Dior fragrance is immediate, clear and generous. Joy is finally captured in a scent, marked by both enveloping softness and energy. An ode to pleasure and life. An Eau de Parfum illuminated by the vibrant smile of flowers and citrus fruits, the smooth caress of woods and the serenity of musks. A fragrance with a thousand nuances and facets, yet crystal-clear. "JOY by Dior expresses this remarkable feeling of joy by offering an olfactive interpretation of light. This perfume resembles certain pointillist paintings that are rich with a precise, yet not too obvious, technique. It is constructed with multiple nuances, a myriad of facets that lead to an expression that is clear and self-evident." (François Demachy, Dior Perfumer-Creator)
Zested Bergamot and Mandarin explode in unison with flowers. Grasse Rose, in both Essence and Absolute form, as well as heady Jasmine, blend with these delectable fruits in a vibrant smile. Warm and creamy Sandalwood embraces us in softness. An intimate signature, the clear and powdery whisper of musks creates a tender and sensual skin-on-skin effect. Its bottle is both luminous and precious. Its femininity shines through in the brilliant silver and radiant pink of this instantly attractive juice. A bright shining silver thread wraps around the lid, like a light jewel delicately engraved with its name, which curls around in a perfect O."

--Packaging--

The bottle is ergonomically pleasing and elegant, and the silver touches prove sophisticated and yet modern in their femininity. The spray mechanism is decisive without being wasteful and I always enjoy a completely see-through bottle (so you can always see how much is left while being able to enjoy the fragrance's colour) - though naturally this means you have to keep it away from direct sunlight.

--Application--

The Dior website recommends preceding application with the Dior body milk before spritzing the EDP onto pulse points (on wrists and neck, and behind ears). Even if you only have the fragrance itself, though, this makes for an easy addition to your morning routine and a prolonged enjoyment of the scent.

--Appearance--

The rose-coloured liquid is perfectly evocative of the roses from Grasse that are used in the fragrance, while remaining invisible when sprayed onto skin.

--Scent--

Some will be pleased to know that the rose element is not dominant; indeed, it is one that can be risky to use due to its tendency to be overpowering. It's therefore present as an accentuation rather than the main event. The woodier aspects - i.e., the jasmine and sandalwood - are the most noticeable, while being tempered by the slightly lighter bergamot (again, a scent that tends to divide the crowd). It's a well-balanced fragrance that unfortunately was too heavy, maybe even taking a slightly powdery turn, for my particular taste - I was disappointed to find the mandarin virtually undetectable as I prefer perfumes with sparklier top notes. Nevertheless, a grownup and sophisticated effect is created.

--Longevity--

The headier components of this fragrance are what enable it to deliver in terms of staying power; the fragrance settles down nicely so that you shouldn't have to reapply during the day.

--Value for money--

This has been one of Dior's biggest fragrance launches and I had been looking forward to trying it. If you enjoy the sandalwood and jasmine base notes then this is definitely the perfume for you; the ingredients used are clearly of high quality and despite the slightly eye-watering price tag you can be confident that a bottle will last you a while. Sadly, it's not for me.

perfect partner

Joy by Dior Moisturizing Body Lotion, £42.50 for 200ml

Beuti Beauty Sleep Elixir

RRP: £42 for 30ml

--What does the promo say?--
"With its 14 precious plant oils Beauty Sleep Elixir supports skin barrier function and plays a key role in fighting inflammation. Packed with anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients that counteract irritation and inflammation. Beauty Sleep Elixir can be worn under makeup in the evening and boosts skin tone, acting as an on the spot blemish treatment due to its anti-inflammatory powers and brightens the complexion for no makeup days. During precious beauty sleep, skin renews itself thanks to this product's super boost of vitamins, minerals and a complete omega hit of 3,5,6,7 and 9, letting you wake up to beautiful glowing skin. Softalia, from a sustainable plantation in Australia, counteracts inflammation and has unique activity on the skin due to its ximenynic acid content, helping hydration and reducing fine lines. Caribbean coral neutralizes the enzyme responsible for skin ageing, acne and sunburn and is one of the worlds most potent anti-inflammatory ingredients."

--Packaging--
The opaque glass bottle is perfect for a product of this type as it enables you to see exactly how much is left at all times, as well as letting the beautiful amber colour of the oil shine through. Equally, the minimalist product information on the bottle and the silvery band and lid contribute to a classy effect. The pump-action mechanism is practical and minimises waste.

--Application--
Massage into face, hands or body for use as a moisturiser. You can also use it to cleanse or remove makeup with by massaging over the face and then removing the oil immediately with a cotton pad.

--Appearance--
A golden orange oil that disappears invisibly into the skin, leaving no residue.

--Scent--
The woodier scents are dominant in this, so I'm guessing the sandalwood is largely at play here. However, a citrus element is also detectable thanks to the sea buckthorn: a hard berry reminiscent of orange and lemon.

--Texture and consistency--
A smooth, non-greasy oil which absorbs quickly into the skin.

--Effects on the skin--
Has deeply moisturising properties which work well on all areas of the body as well as the face. Perfect for these sunnier times of the year when skin may dry out from exposure to the sun, the sea, or chlorinated swimming pools.

--Value for money--
A little goes a very long way and the product is clearly composed of high quality ingredients (which, for what it's worth, are 98% organic and 100% natural). An excellent multi-purpose product for affordable luxury moisturisation.

Noble Isle Lightning Oak Hair and Body Wash

RRP: £20

--What does the promo say?--
"An enduring, handsome fragrance, balancing smoky wood aromas with modern notes of crushed pepper and bergamot, enriched with toning extract of English oak."

--Packaging--
As classy as a plastic pump-action bottle can be thanks to its traditional logo and minimalist text, all embossed with an opaque finish. You also can't go wrong with it being see-through - I personally prize always being able to see how much product I have remaining.

--Application--
Lather up and rub over wet skin, or through wet hair. Rinse off when done.

--Appearance--
A sage green in the bottle, but turns white upon lathering and leaves no visible residue.

--Scent--
The website promises a mixture of bergamot, grapefruit, cardamom, clove, vetiver and sandalwood. Vetiver in particular is a very masculine fragrance, and I don't normally like it. However, in this case it's not overwhelming. None of the other scents are especially detectable; however, this could be considered the mark of a good fragrance, as it means they are all well-balanced.

--Texture and consistency--
Lathers up encouragingly and rinses out well, both from the hair and off the skin.

--Effects on the skin and hair--
Leaves skin feeling smooth and soft, and while I'm often sceptical of these products that claim to be multi-use, effects on the hair are also positive, with volume, luminosity and texture all restored.

--Value for money--
While £20 might seem pricy, this product's luxurious nature, high-quality results and multi-purpose application make it worth the money.

perfect partners
Warm and Woody Trio, £19.50
Bath and Shower Trio, £19.50
Bath and Body Gift Set, £29
Mini Love, £15
Lightning Oak Soap Bar, £15
Lightning Oak Candle and Snuffer, £39
Fragrance Sampler, £12
Deluxe Traveller, £29 

Lush Sandy Santa Sugar Scrub

RRP: £2.95

--What does the promo say?--

"Those great Christmas traditions of sun, surf and Santa! A sunny citrus body scrub with hints of floral, to perk up winter skin or get summer skin swimming-suit ready."

--Packaging--

In traditional Lush style, packaging is limited to a yellow paper sleeve. However, I'd strongly advise the purchase of an additional tin for this product due to reasons stated below.

--Application--

Rub gently over damp skin during a shower. Don't scrub too hard - the sugar particles will do all of the work. Then rinse off.

--Appearance--

Despite the fire-engine red of Santa's hat, this doesn't leave any visible residue on the skin (although it might make your shower look like you've been filming a scene from Psycho for a few minutes). This is one of the reasons why you will need a tin with a lid for this product as the colour does leach out quite a bit on contact with water - a soap dish with no lid just doesn't cut it. The shape of the scrub bar is very definitely a Santa head with a hat on, so perfect for getting you into a festive mood.

--Scent--

The overriding smell is that of peppermint, which along with the product's red and white colours really helps to evoke seasonal images of candy canes. This doesn't last as long on the skin as it could, though, and is strange, as it appears to deliberately contradict the main scents actually featuring in the ingredients list: rosewood, sandalwood and orange!

--Texture and consistency--

Delightfully scrubby without being too abrasive. However, it does have a tendency to fall apart or dissolve on contact with water (another reason why a tin with a lid is needed) and some of the larger crystals don't actually break down, leading to a small amount of wastage.

--Effects on the skin--

The essential oils used, combined with the exfoliating properties of the sugar, lead to super smooth and soft skin. Definitely a must in these cold winter months while trying to dodge dry patches.

--Value for money--

At a mere £2.95 this makes a fun stocking filler and it actually lasts a few weeks too, making it great for making your bathroom look a lot like Christmas. Just make sure you get the tin with it, no matter who you're buying for.

perfect partners

Orange Blossom Perfume, £5.50

Melting Snowman Bath Melt, £1.95

North Pole Soap, £3.25/100g

Father Christmas Bath Bomb, £3.25

Bubblebeard Bubble Bar, £4.95

Fushi Total Repair Herbal Shampoo

RRP: £15.26/250ml

--What does the promo say?--

"A nourishing shampoo for normal to dry, damaged hair types. Generously medicated with the soothing and healing properties of Calendula and the tonifying and rejuvenating action of Frankincense and Neroli, these actions are combined with the nourishing attributes of Sandalwood and Avocado oil and dull hair is lifted and refreshed with orange essential oil."

--Packaging--

The plastic bottle is transparent, so it's easy to see how much you have left at any given time. The black, white and pink label is decorated with flowers, creating a calming Asiatic feel, and writing is kept minimal. The lid is a push-down top, which closes flat and opens at an angle, revealing the aperture through which you squeeze the shampoo. Very secure and easy to use.

--Application--

Lather into wet hair before rinsing. Repeat if necessary and follow with Fushi's Repair and Soothe hair conditioner.

--Appearance--

A translucent dark yellow colour (isn't actually as gross as it sounds, really), which foams into a white lather on contact with water. Leaves no visible residue.

--Scent--

The citric notes from the orange, calendula and neroli are clearly detectable, but are given extra dimension by the musky sandalwood and frankincense. Not too sweet or too masculine, so ideal for all the family. It lingers really nicely in the hair after use, too, without interfering with perfume.

--Texture and consistency--

Strikes the perfect balance between viscous and liquid, and the foam it lathers into is abundant and luxurious. Make sure you rinse well though as you risk weighing your hair down if you don't.

--Effects on the hair--

Hair is left volumised, silky and in control thanks to the shampoo's ace detangling qualities. Once fully brushed through hair is tamed and feels cared for. Definitely palpable and positive results.

--Value for money--

Organic or natural products which work as well as their commercial equivalents can be difficult to find, but Fushi ticks a lot of boxes here. The only thing holding back some people is perhaps the cost, as £15 for a shampoo can seem a high initial outlay. However, with this putting Fushi in the same price bracket as high-end salon brands such as Aveda, Rene Furterer and Bumble and Bumble, I'd say it's wholly reasonable - especially given that one bottle will last you ages. A great everyday organic option and a lovely gift for others.

perfect partners

Repair and Soothe Herbal Conditioner, £18.34

Total Repair Dry Hair Balm, £17.32

Dolce & Gabbana L'Imperatrice Eau de Toilette

RRP: £39/100ml

--What does the promo say?--

"L''Impératrice opens with top notes of rhubarb, red currant and juicy kiwi accord. Fresh watermelon accord in the heart of the fragrance creates a mouth-watering concoction that is then offset by the drama of pink cyclamen for an exhilarating fragrance sensation. The musky notes, sandalwood and grapefruit wood in the base notes are boisterous, brilliant and incredibly addictive."

--Packaging--

I just had a small vial sample of this, so can't comment on the real deal, but the pale pink seems quite ordinary and the outside of the spray bottle almost too minimalistic. However, as a collection the pastel colours harmonise beautifully, with each scent in the Anthology series (which comprises four fragrances for men and four for women) having a different colour, ranging from slate to green, passing through pinks, corals and yellows on the way. In a way, you arguably expect more for the money, but in another sense, if it means the company has spent money on the product rather than on its packaging, then so much the better.

--Application--
Spritz on pressure points and perhaps through hair for all-over impact.

--Appearance--

A clear liquid with no glitter or colourants; no visible residue is therefore left on skin.

--Texture and consistency--

No irritation was experienced while using this product.

--Scent--

The first thing to hit you is the fruit, but it's not overly sugary and definitely not cheap (as some reviewers have derided it for being); it's completely authentic and nothing about it makes you feel like it's been synthetically put together, which means that someone somewhere has done an excellent job. However, I'd say that all of the fruits mentioned fuse together in such a way that you can only tells that each of them is there if you really think about it; none of them stand out individually over the other, making for a truly harmonious creation. If I were to think really hard and had to choose one, I'd say that the redcurrant notes were the most obvious. The muskier and woodier notes mentioned in the promotional material are barely evident. It's therefore more on the fruity and enthusiastic side rather than being yielding, without (at the same time) being overbearing or lacking in subtlety.

--Longevity--

Definitely not an all-day fragrance; by 4pm it had worn off, so expect to have to reapply at least once or twice during the day.

--Value for money--

I reckon that Dolce and Gabbana have pitched this at a good price point, with brands such as Kenzo, Givenchy, Guerlain and Hermes also selling their 100ml eaux de toilette for this amount of money. It's a small price to pay to buy into a real designer brand and for a high-quality, delightful fragrance that's suitable for all ages of women. It's just a shame there are no companion products (such as shower foam or body lotion) to go with this - but perhaps they're working on that. Either way, I would splash out on the whole bottle in future.

Lush Coalface Cleanser

RRP: from £4.50/100g

--What does the promo say?--
"Designed for oilier skins, this soap is gentle enough for the face, but don’t stop there, what’s good for the face is great for the body too. Coalface includes liquorice infusion for softening and charcoal which absorbs grease and gently exfoliates the skin. The charcoal in here is made by Jim, in the surrounding woodlands of Dorset, who specially bumps and grinds the charcoal to a very fine grade for us to make it suitable for use on the face."

--Packaging--

Lush are very eco-friendly with their packaging as a rule, and Coalface is no exception: it just comes wrapped in a sheet of paper, which of course is fully recyclable. Coalface itself is basically like a soap bar, so it just dissolves down as you use it.

--Application--

Lather up like a soap in your hands, then rub the lather over your face before rinsing off and proceeding with toner, moisturiser, or whatever else you use (if anything).

--Appearance--

The black colour of the soap and grey colour of the lather makes it both unconventional and unisex, but there is also a bit of silver glitter on there to make it fun. Doesn't leave any visible residue on the hands or face after use.

--Scent--

 The charcoal smell is evident without being overpowering, and the other most noticeable scent is liquorice, making for a unique, slightly sweet, yet definitely unisex combination. The other scents, such as sandalwood, are not obvious at all.

--Texture and consistency--

The hard bar turns into a smooth, yet not creamy lather, and there are also a few small exfoliating particles in the bar, which you could rub over your face for a quick scrub. Overall a pleasant sensory experience.

--Effects on the skin--

This definitely reduced oiliness without drying even on hot days; however, I'm not convinced that I saw that much improvement in my skin even after nearly a month of use. Perhaps more time is needed.

--Value for money--

This product is pleasant to use, reduces oiliness, and is affordable (the £4.50 paid for the 100g is bargainous as this size bar lasts an age). You're also not paying over the odds for packaging. Charcoal soap is also no cheaper anywhere else, and I know this product has helped a lot of people, suggesting that Lush are really offering something new and different here.

perfect partners

Love Lettuce, £5.75

Ocean Salt, from £6.75/100g

Enzymion, £13.50

Grease Lightning, £5.65

Breath of Fresh Air, from £3.75/100g

Green People Vita Min Fix

RRP: £14.95/50ml

--What does the promo say?--

"Voted ‘Best Moisturiser for Dry Skin’ by Natural Health & Beauty magazine. A 24 hour solution for normal, dry and tired skin. An explosion of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Regenerates and nourishes your skin. Promotes production of new skin cells. Delicate, natural scent. This natural skin care product is made without Parabens, Lanolin, ethyl alcohol, artificial perfumes, petrochemicals, phthalates and colourants to bring you the purest moisturiser that nature can offer. Certified with the Organic Food Federation. Suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Also available in a 10ml travel/trial size. This product contains Fairly Traded Ingredients."

 --Packaging--

The white and blue bottle (looks like a pump-action bottle; I wouldn't know, as Green People kindly sent me a sample tube that works more like a lip gloss) tells you everything you need to know without overloading you. 

--Application--

Apply onto clean dry skin after cleansing and toning.

--Appearance--

A white, slightly translucent cream which blends invisibly into skin.

--Scent--

Floral and natural without being overpowering. It also seems slightly fruity, although I don't know what ingredient/s could be giving me this impression. Overall very pleasant.

--Texture and consistency--

Light and non-greasy, rather than intensive; sinks into skin quickly.

--Effects on the skin--

Sadly, I think this made my acne worse, but then again it was clearly never made for my skin type. I can see how it would definitely be better for normal or dry skin and will be passing this on to someone else whose skin type is closer to this for a more accurate assessment.

--Value for money--

It is great to see a genuinely ethical company endorsed by genuinely ethical organisations, such as the Organic Food Federation and the Vegan Society, as opposed to all the other companies out there who think sticking a leaping bunny on the tube (which is linked with BUAV - possibly one of the most questionable "ethical" organisations out there) makes it all OK. Despite my negative experience with this cream, I am not put off trying a Green People product again that might be better suited to my skin type - and I don't think £14.95 is a lot to pay for 50ml of genuinely natural and ethically produced cream.

perfect partners

Eye Cream (night), £8.50/10ml

Fruitful Nights, £14.95/50ml

Salcura Skin Therapy Spray

RRP: £2.99 for 15ml travel size; other sizes from £9.99

--What does the promo say?--

"Cooling, soothing and calming solution for individuals with hypersensitive skin or babies, children or infants with skin problems like skin rashes, dry skin or eczema. The safer natural alternative to treating your baby or your sensitive skin.



Gentle Skin Therapy Spray is a 100% safe and natural topical spray that helps to support, soothe and heal hypersensitive skin or baby skin that is prone to eczema, nappy rash, cradle cap, skin rashes and irritations, and dry skin. It is very effective at killing bacteria and fungus and also stops skin itching.

 Intensive is a 100% safe and natural topical spray formulated to provide skin with minerals, oils and vitamins that will repair, strengthen and support skin in its own natural healing process.

Like all Salcura products, it is free from steroids, paraffin, alcohol, parabens, lanolin, anti-biotics and any other harmful chemicals."

--Packaging--

I was sent these tiny sprays from Salcura after participating in one of their Facebook publicity campaigns. The packaging design is similar across the Gentle (intended for baby or sensitive skin) and Intensive versions, but the bold green and blue make differentiation easy. The spray action is effective, targeted and easy to use - if, for instance, you had dry skin or eczema just on your scalp, you would have no problems spraying it directly onto your parting without messing with your hair. The only bad thing was that one of the spray pumps came unscrewed and so leaked into my travel toiletry bag :(  Not that the smell of lavender isn't nice, but yknow. I'd have rather kept and used it.

--Usage--

The Salcura website recommends use of the spray "2 – 3 times a day. Simply shake the bottle and spray onto the skin from about 2 – 3 inches away. You can leave the liquid on the skin and let it absorb or you can gently massage it in. You can apply the spray as many times a day as needed depending on the severity of the eczema, psoriasis, dry or itchy skin." All very easy. If you are using the product on your face, it's easier to spray onto a cotton pad and then to wipe the cotton pad over the skin as you would with an ordinary toner.

--Appearance--

A completely clear liquid that is invisible once sprayed on.

--Scent--

The dominant smell in both sprays is lavender, although perhaps as you would expect, the scent is less strong in the Gentle version.

--Texture and consistency--

Surprisingly, given the amount of different essential oils contained in this product, it is completely non-oily or greasy so shouldn't bother anyone in this regard, even if you are using it directly on the face.

--Effects on the skin--

Even though I don't suffer from eczema or psoriasis (acne is sadly the name of my game), I was amazed by the degree to which the instinct to touch my face reduced. Definitely an anti-itch product! It was also cooling, soothing, and seemed to calm redness significantly - and even though I wasn't using a cleanser at this time (due to wanting to test the sprays and Salcura's moisturiser, Zeoderm, on their own), I was very impressed, too, with the smoothness and cleanliness of my skin, excess oil being blasted into the stratosphere.

--Value for money--

It's great that Salcura allows you to try these products before you buy at the reasonable price of £2.99 - they should do this for their other spray, Antiac, as well. Once you have decided on the right product for you, I think a starting price of £9.99 is very reasonable, and naturally the value for money increases as you go up in size. I was impressed enough with these two sprays to buy Antiac, Salcura's spray for acne sufferers, and am hoping I haven't just taken yet another punt on a so-called saviour product for nothing.

Clinique Aromatics Elixir Solid Perfume

RRP: £35

--What does the promo say?--
"The solid perfume. A new touch of sensuality with all the magic of Aromatics Elixir. An elegant spinoff from the Aromatics Elixir collection, which can find room in even the smallest pocket, for a small perfumed touch during an evening. Its floral motif makes it an elegant and precious accessory."

--Packaging--
Satisfying and beautiful; impressive right from the start, it arrives in a small velveteen cream bag, and there is a gorgeous, simple yet classic floral design engraved into the lid. Easy to open and close (but only when you want to), the solid perfume itself is a delicate honeycomb colour that turns invisible when applied to the skin. The metal casing is of a delightful weight, reassuring you in itself of the care that has gone into ensuring the high quality of the product.

--Application--
Rub the balm onto your fingers and then transfer onto pulse points (neck, wrists, and behind ears). No problems here.

--Texture/consistency--
Quite a hard balm, but you don't need very much per application. Instantly easy to tell that this compact will last ages.

--Scent--
Initially unappealing; it's more like something that would be worn by my grandmother. However, it's worth giving this scent time to develop: it soon matures into something more interesting and multi-layered, combining tradition with modernity. It's packed so full of lovely fragrances* that you're bound to find a note in it that you like, even if it might take you a little time to do so.

--Longevity--
On the up side, this certainly packs a punch when it comes to staying power. By lunchtime it's still there and has found its harmony with your body, even if you applied it at 7.30. That's not to say it lasts all day, but just one reapplication per day would probably do it; two maximum if you really want to make an impact in the evening.

--Value for money--
Given the little you have to use each time, along with the stunning packaging and complex scent, I'd say £35 is very reasonable indeed. It's a surefire gift for women who love perfume, even if its scent is arguably not instantly lovable. You have to take the time to get to know it - but that, surely, is one of the joys of perfumery.

*for the record, those scents are: rose essence, sandalwood, camomile, oakmoss, jasmine, muguet, ylang ylang, patchouli, vetiver, musk, and amber.

perfect partners
Aromatics Elixir Decorated Bottle Perfume Spray, £60/100ml
Aromatics Elixir Velvet Sheer, £33.40/45ml
Aromatics Elixir Perfume Spray, from £19.50
Aromatics Elixir Eau de Toilette, £30.50/45ml
Aromatics Elixir Body Wash, £19.50/200ml
Aromatics Elixir Body Smoother, £22.50/200ml
Aromatics Elixir Body Cream, £24.50/150ml
Aromatics Elixir Body Powder, £20.50/75g
Aromatics Elixir Anti-Perspirant Deodorant, £12.50/75ml

Yves St Laurent Parisienne Eau de Parfum

RRP: from £34 for 30ml

--What does the promo say?--
"The portrait of a woman incredibly free. Free to think, free to act. She was not born in Paris, but Paris adopts her, because she conveys the joy of living and loving in the moment. A precious flacon, intricately carved like the labyrinth of Parisian streets, as soft as the sheets she has just left behind, as pink as an early morning sky, as couture as the YSL label on black leather. A grand floral with a woody structure, luminous even in its mystery, PARISIENNE is the perfume of ultra femininity, warmed by the touch of the man who embraced her. The top note adds the shine of vinyl, an ultra modern wink to gloss, varnish or the metal of a spike heel, before the tartness of cranberry adds a point of bitter sharpness - the evocation of a certain impertinence softened by sparkling, succulent, fruity blackberry, symbol of an epicurean PARISIENNE. The floral heart beats wildly with the absolute femininity of the Damask rose, which harmonizes perfectly with the powdery violet, sensual and carnal like leather worn by Kate Moss. In contrast, the peony gives a breath of PARISIENNE youth and a hint of morning freshness. The base note brings tumult and intensity in its woody wake. First with patchouli, the ultimate in mystery. And when the masculinity of vetiver flirts with the feminine eroticism of musk and sandalwood, one knows that this PARISIENNE knew a 'night of love'."

--Packaging--
With echoes of Viktor and Rolf, it's unusual while still being romantic as the lilac liquid shines through the glass bottle. This is set off by a high-shine gold top that you simply pull off, and with the trademark YSL label stuck to the front in black and gold.

--Application--
Spritz onto pulse points, and go.

--Appearance--
While the liquid appears purplish in the bottle, nothing is visible on the skin.

--Scent--
The overriding smell is of violets, so this definitely takes some getting used to. Some of the scents described in the brief are virtually undetectable (cranberry, for instance), while some of the others emerge later on (such as patchouli). I personally don't hate it, but this is definitely a personal thing: many people will find it too sweet and I certainly wouldn't call it a classic fragrance that will live forever.

--Longevity--
About average, I'm afraid. Expect to reapply at least once or twice a day.

--Value for money--
A nice enough fragrance (absolutely not down there with the horror of Sisley's fragrances) but for the money I'd expect something more timeless and something that lasted longer on your skin. As an English girl living in Paris, the concept of the perfume definitely appeals to me, but it's debatable as to whether the quality of the fragrance truly lives up to the vision. Go for Viktor and Rolf's Flowerbomb instead.

perfect partners
Parisienne Eau de Toilette, from £32 for 30ml
Parisienne Body Lotion, £28 for 200ml
Parisienne Shower Gel, £27 for 200ml

Caudalie Gentle Buffing Cream

RRP: £17 for 60ml

--What does the promo say?--
"This rich scrub eliminates impurities, dead skin cells and excess oil while stimulating cellular renewal. Your complexion’s radiance is gently restored and your skin is soft and clean. For all skin types, even the most sensitive. Contains grape-seed oil, jojoba microbeads, honey, plant cellulose, liquorice, essential oils of sweet lime and sandal wood, and extracts of coriander, limette, lemon, guaiac wood, sweet orange, vetiver, sandalwood and lavandin."

--Packaging--
A very sweet-looking white tube with the custom Caudalie silver grapes logo. Plastic, with stand-alone screw-top lid.

--Application--
The Caudalie website advises use "on cleansed face, neck and décolleté once or twice a week using gentle circular movements. Rinse with warm water."

--Scent--
A very incense-heavy scent, with the sandalwood and coriander coming through most strongly. Lovely, though, and very unusual.

--Appearance--
A slightly yellowish, off-white cream, with the exfoliating particles visible only as tiny lumps.

--Texture/consistency--
Very creamy and rich, as promised by the brief. The exfoliating particles are very gentle (again, as promised) and feel good when the exfoliator is applied to the skin and massaged in.

--Effects on skin over time--
Short-term, skin does feel smoother, but I didn't feel that this effect lasted. Equally, I also noticed no difference in my skin condition over time: the recurrence of spots was in no way improved and dry patches kept returning, indicating that even if the buffing cream can get rid of these in the immediate period during and after use, there is no element of prevention or of long-term cure.

--Value for money--
This seems to me to be quite expensive for what it is. This is a shame, as it smells divine and I so wanted it to be effective. It seems this is just another case where you shouldn't trust anything claiming to be 'for all skin types' (where, yet again, it seems that this product would be best for normal or sensitive skin). Instead, I would recommend exfoliators by either Liz Earle (hers is cheaper too at £12 for 70ml) or Lush's Ocean Salt (£11 for 250g) for keeping things natural (at least Caudalie's products are chock-full of natural stuff, right down to the exfoliating beads themselves - can never understand why companies insist on using artificial exfoliating elements or beads when there are plenty of natural ingredients that do the job just as well). However, sucker that I am, I haven't given up on Caudalie yet. Their 'get your beauty prescription' tool on their website seems accurate and informative and I can't wait to try the products that the widget recommends - the Gentle Cleanser, the Beauty Elixir (toner), the Matte Finish Fluid (moisturiser) and the Purifying Concentrate (balancing complexion serum). Maybe there's hope yet...

perfect partners
Vinopure Purifying Mask, £17.50 for 50ml
Gentle Cleanser, £14 for 200ml

Bath and Body Works Black Amethyst Eau de Toilette

RRP: $26.50 for 2.5 fl.oz.

--What does the promo say?--
"Master perfumers have seductively layered a sophisticated blend of Italian bergamot and rare camellias with exotic sandalwood and a surprising twist of vetiver in this hypnotic fine fragrance, inspired by chic, sensual and confident women.

* Fragrance Top Notes: Bergamot Italian Oprur, Juicy Mandarin, Sparkling Tangerine, Zesty Orange, Waterfruits, Crisp Melon
* Fragrance Mid Notes: Lily of the Valley, Magnolia Blossom, Sheer Gardenia, Tuberose, Freesia, Peony Petals, Camellia
* Fragrance Base Notes: Patchouli, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Vanilla, Musk"

--Packaging--
A substantial-looking and sophisticated clear square bottle revealing the purple liquid within, without being so heavy as to put you off taking it on holiday with you. Spray-top with matte silver lid. Easy to use, and looks nice on your dressing table too.

--Application--
Spritz wherever desired.

--Scent--
Really very sexy: it's got so much depth, from the lighter floral scents, to the deeper, muskier sandalwood and patchouli. It's not overpowering, however, and it's not trying too hard to be clever or unusual: it all fuses together so naturally, and yet is somehow still unique. It's feminine, but not girly or babyish, and not too 'old' in the way that some fragrances are guilty of.

--Longevity--
Unfortunately, not as long as I'd like (needs reapplying by lunchtime), but seeing as it is an eau de toilette (rather than an eau de parfum), I think I can forgive them for this.

--Value for money--
It's a very reasonable price for such a high-quality, pleasant scent. I just wish it lasted for longer on the skin and didn't need to be reapplied as often.

perfect partners
Shower Gel, Bubble Bath, Body Lotion, Body Cream, Body Splash, Body Wash, Body Butter, Hand Cream, Antibacterial Soap, Home Fragrance, Home Fragrance Oil, Room Spray, and Scented Candle, ranging from $4.50 to $17

Anais Anais by Cacharel

RRP: £21.00/30ml of eau de toilette; £25.00/30ml of eau de parfum

--What does the promo say?--
"Since her birth 25 years ago, Anais Anais has expressed the spirit of youth and femininity. She has captured the hearts of millions of young girls and women with her unique fresh floral blend. Inspired by the lily, Anais Anais is a true modern classic. It combines a fresh burst of hyacinth, orange blossom and jasmine with the intense scent of Virginia cedarwood, Bourbon vetiver and musky sandalwood."

--Packaging--
The bottle is small, squat, and somewhat quaint with its white and silver colour combination. The flowers are shown in pink and the Cacharel logo is shown in white or black. The lid is a screw top lid and comes in silver. It's quite sweet and feminine, but in this modern age may not appeal to all women and girls. However, of those it does appeal to, it should appeal to all ages. The bottle is small enough to comply with new hand baggage regulations, though I'd say it's probably better to have the spray from a travel point of view. I've never taken my screw top Anais Anais on holiday with me and I'd be wary of doing so.

--Application--
Depends on the one you have. Either undo the screw top and dab a little directly onto your wrist, or pull off the lid and spray onto the desired area.

--Scent--
As I've said in one of my other reviews here, I don't know enough about botany to know whether it really does smell of all the things they say. However, I do know that the scent is just lovely. It's very light, not at all overbearing, and (so I've been told) very seductive...

--Longevity--
I haven't formally tested this one for longevity at the time of writing, but will edit when I have. I know for sure that it lasts for at least a whole morning without having to reapply, meaning you should only have to reapply once a day if at all.

--Value for money--
I didn't actually buy mine, so I feel pretty impartial on this, but as far as perfume prices go, I'd say this is a pretty reasonable price - especially for a classic that's sustained the public interest for at least 25 years. It seems to go about as far and last about as long as most other perfumes I own. However, I wouldn't pay as much as they ask for the deodorant equivalent.

--Other comments--
I actually have a lot of respect for the company for not capitalising on the public's clear love for this product by jacking up the price. There are many perfumes out there that are twice as expensive without being half as loved. The scent is inexplicably pretty and sexy. I will be buying this again.

perfect partners
Anais Anais Body Lotion, £19.50/200ml
Anais Anais Bath and Shower Gel, £17.00/200ml
Anais Anais Deodorant Body Spray, £14.50/150ml