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Really? I haven't tried it in a while, but I found Grand Soir to be disgustingly sweet and super, super synthetic. That's one of my problems with MFKs: they're all REALLY synthetic smelling to my nose. Like, synthetic isn't necessarily a bad thing, but his fragrances mostly just smell like somewhat-pleasant chemicals to me. I just don't like any of his line and have a really hard time justifying the prices.
I find it sweet, but not tooth-achingly sweet. I posted soon after spraying it, and unfortunately, the synthetic note just got stronger and stronger as the day progressed (as I posted in the scent of the day thread). It put me off wearing other ambers this week.
The unfortunate thing is that most people buy perfumes after smelling them for maybe five minutes, so it's easy for companies to get away with using those terrible aromachemicals.
Yes, you really have to wait until the end of the day, and maybe try it more than once before buying (or even writing a review). I agree that many get taken in by the top notes before purchasing. Also, it helps if people, especially those new to fragrances, can sample across a wider range (niche, indie, etc.,) which will help them detect and recognize the aromachemicals when they come across them in a perfume.
For me, I'm more sensitive to the kind of woody aromachemical(s) used in the base of Portrait of a Lady, which is likely why I notice it more in that perfume. Also, I don't have as much experience with Une Rose as I do with PoaL.
Admittedly, I haven't worn PoaL a whole lot since acquiring it, so I may just need to pay more attention the next time I wear it. Also agree that we all have varying levels of sensitivity to different aromachemicals. I'm particularly sensitive to ISO-e super (or whatever it's called). My sample of Une Rose is a relatively recent one. I was debating buying a bottle, and just decided to get another sample instead, which I am finding is a good strategy when I am undecided about adding another full bottle to my collection.
