08/03/2013
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Soliflore Mates are Forever
This is the truest match to the deliciously spicy and fresh perfection of Roger & Gallet's Carnation Soap. I have tried Comme Des Garcons Carnation and found it was too big, flaming red and ostentatious. I've also tested Serge Lutens' Vitriol d’oeillet, which is beautiful in its own right but its not a match for this particular type of carnation essence that soothes my soul, reminds me of my mother, long luxurious hot baths in Winter and the glorious year we lived in Paris when I was a child. Finally I tested Santa Maria Novella's Carnation which I found initially invigorating and after about 20 minutes I found it was so overwhelming that I had to drive home, two hours, with all the car windows rolled down just to keep the single dab on my wrist from disintegrating my vehicle. Where did the beautiful sultry yet subtle carnation in Roger& Gallet's formulation go...hidden in a vault in the Palace, no doubt. In researching why this incredible living lush spicy soliflore is no longer available, I discovered that apparently, the Queen of England is also a big fan of this scent. As a courtesy to her Royal Highness, Roger & Gallet took it off the market to prevent the commoners from having access to it. Well, fiddle sticks! Blue Carnation is that one true match for the Roger & Gallet carnation soap and I haven't come across any other fragrances that even get close. It's a fresh uplifting bouquet of these flowers on a backdrop of clove with a touch of cinnamon, vanilla and a little soapiness I keep a bar of this marvelous soap in my bag just for aromatherapy and I'm just thankful that the Queen didn't request to have the soap taken off the market as well. Perhaps one day, they will see fit to release a commemorative version of the Blue Carnation Fragrance (it would have been perfect for the Jubilee- but they've blown that opportunity, because they didn't have me on staff to make it happen (way to go). Moving forward, I know there are many who yearn for Blue Carnation's return and would pay big money to lay hands on this beauty once again.