bond no 9

Bond No. 9 Launches I Love NY Collection

Known for their fragrances inspired by the unique neighborhoods of New York, Bond No. 9 just launched an I Love New York collection.  To be honest, I'm surprised they didn't do this sooner! My first Bond No. 9 fragrance was their Nuits de Noho candle.  I'll never forget receiving it and coveting it for months as it sat displayed out on my book shelf after the candle burnt down just because it resembled NYC and I loved what it stood for – the upbeat edginess of downtown.

The I Love NY collection has a perfume, cologne and a unisex scent.  The perfume is blended with fruit and floral notes such as mandarin zest, spicy nutmeg and blueberry accord layered with roses, pink peonies, patchouli and grounded by musk, vanilla, sandalwood and leather accord.

If you like it when your man wears musky colognes, you may like this one. It contains notes such as patchouli, leather, sandalwood, musk and amber topped by ginger, juniper berry and lavender.

The unisex scent is my favorite (I'm not a fruity floral lover) as it's full of more grounded notes.  Bergamot, muguet and pepper are layered over cocoa, coffee beans and creamy chestnut.  Patchouli, vanilla, leatherwood and sandalwood finish it off.

*Available Sept. 18th

Uplifting Spring Scents

The sense of smell is so powerful it can alter and enhance your mood.  Scent alone can trigger emotion, bliss and memory.  Surround yourself this spring by fragrances that are instantly uplifting. Here are some of my top finds: Suave Naturals Mango Mandarin Refreshing Body Wash, $3.49 at drugstores

Start in the shower.  "When you wake up in the morning, your mind is at its most free to be emotionally transported by scent," remarked Dr. Rachel Hertz.

Bond No. 9 High Line, $220 at Bond No. 9 Boutiques

Spritz on a floral.  With notes of purple love grass, bergamot, red-leaf rose, Lady Jane tulips and musk, this light fragrance is a spring go-to.  Named after the NYC High Line that runs from the Meat Packing District to 34th Street and allows NYers to escape from the hustle and bustle, it'll make you feel like you've escaped your busy day.

Crabtree and Evelyn India Hicks Island Living Casuarina Scented Candle, $35 at Crabtree-evelyn.com

Create your own paradise.  This tropical candle brings the scent of the islands to you.  Create the atmosphere you desire no matter where you are.  Burn time: 45 hours.