Sandra‘s Closet

Whenever I receive a press preview from JO MALONE LONDON, I am totally excited. The photos and the stories behind the launches are always dreamlike and so beautiful. This fall, we are invited to enter the ancient Hanging Gardens and indulge in a lost moment in time, reimagined in the present to inspire two new fragrances. Fig & Lotus Flower Cologne, bright and luscious. Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense, smooth and noble. Together they capture the fragrant essence of this majestic scene.

FIG & LOTUS FLOWER COLOGNE

A new light floral Cologne inspired by the luscious figs and lotus flowers of the ancient Hanging Gardens. Honoured in many parts of the world for its loveliness, the lotus flower is an elegant water blossom and the perfect pairing for juicy fig in Jo Malone’s latest Cologne.

Top Note: Fig Leaf
Middle Note: Lotus Flower
Base Note: Vetiver

FIG LOVE

Plump, juicy and luscious, figs are known as the «fruit of the gods» – and with good reason. The fig has long featured in stories, poems and paintings across many civilisations. Said to be the world’s oldests planted tree, the fig tree. The season for the tree’s bounty is, however, fleeting– a moment of perfection, condensed and concentrated. A succulent pearl in nature’s treasure trove that few can resist.

Originally cultivated in Asia Minor around 9400 BC, where they lapped up the dry heat, figs are believed to be the first domesticated crop. A member of the mulberry family, the fig is a flowering tree – but not as one might imagine. The flowers grow secretly within the fruit, known as syconiums. A complex little secret to add to their magic. A tree mysterious enough for the Buddha to have found enlightenment beneath, a branch of which was supposedly taken by the emperor of India’s daughter to Sri Lanka, where it was replanted in 288 BC. Still alive today, it is the oldest planted tree in the world.

Many have been captivated by their siren call. In Greek mythology, it is said Apollo turned a crow’s feathers from pure white to black to punish it for dawdling by a tree or ripening figs while fetching him water. Alexander the Great is believed to have sought refuge from the heat under a huge fig tree when he arrived in India in 326 BC. And then, of course, they are said to have been grown in the legendary Hanging Gardens. A majestic wonder to fathom, a terraced garden adjoining a royal palace, planted with fruit trees complete with shaded walkways and cool streams to admire. Where the bountiful fig trees are believed to have stood water-splashed and abundant with temptingly plump figs alongside it’s the prized lotus flower.

We have paired the vibrant, juicy fig with lotus flower, luscious and crystaline, for a light floral fragrance that is water-splashed and graceful, that embodies the allure of this ancient wonder of the world. A place built by a king for a queen he adored. A timeless love to echo through the ages.

CYPRESS & GRAPEVINE COLOGNE INTENSE

An evergreen woody scent inspired by the statuesque trees of the ancient Hanging Gardens. Discover the story of the cypress, the slender and spellbinding tree that brings its aromatic notes to Jo Malone’s new Cologne Intense.

Top Note: Cypress
Middle Note: Grapevine
Base Note: Moss

THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE

The allure of the grape is not to be underestimated. Depicted dangling over the mouths of adoring Gods, heroes, emperors and kings in art, in pottery, in poems and beyond, they are the symbol of opulence, decadence and the desire for more, as ancient as civilisation itself. Droplets of temptation, easily plucked from the vine that burst with sweetness in one bite.

In Greek mythology, Dionysus, the god of wine, transformed a lost lover into a grapevine. In fact, mythologies, folklore and religions across many cultures all have tales to tell of the grapevine’s prized gift to the world. Symbolising abundance and prosperity, the ancient world could never get their fill of these juicy jewels, the red and black varieties are said to be particularly rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Cultivated since 6,000 BC, grapevines spread their tentacles through Egypt to Asia Minor, flourishing across the Roman Empire and captivating all who whose paths they crossed with all the forms they could take.

The sap from the vines was traditionally used by folk healers in hope of soothing skin ailments and treat eye infections, while the leaves were applied to wounds to stem bleeding. A natural antibacterial, anti-inflammatory ointment of sorts, it was said to bring a radiance to the skin and to detoxify the liver. A veritable jack of all trades.

With such a distinguished history, it’s only right that the grapevine takes a starring role in Jo Malone’s new collection. Said to have been grown in the Hanging Gardens where a noble king created a special garden for his beloved queen full of lush greenery. A paradise to escape to, with its glimmering waterfalls and wondrous verdant terraces. Where fruits from the grapevines are said to be enjoyed during social receptions. By pairing the unusual entwined grapevine note, woody with a hint of warm amber and juicy grape notes with the freshness of the Cyprus, it is bringing a twist on the classic fougère. A reimagining of a scented garden, famed throughout the world for its astonishing beauty and created as a gesture of overwhelming love.

FRAGRANCE COMBINING™

Like a true love story, those two new fragrances can be combined with each other, also great in combination with WOOD SAGE & SEA SALT.

Fig & Lotus Flower Cologne 30ml, CHF 72.–
Fig & Lotus Flower Cologne 100ml, CHF 135.–
Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense 50ml, CHF 116.–
Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense 100ml, CHF 165.–
Cypress & Grapevine Exfoliating Shower Gel 200ml, CHF 47.–
Available now at all Jo Malone London counters.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Jo Malone and © Sandra Bauknecht
Follow: @JoMaloneLondon #LOSTINWONDER

Summer, captured in scent. Discover the new limited-edition collection inspired by delicate blossoms, citrus fruits and floating blooms.

NEW SPRING BLOSSOMS
Yuja: A citrus to enliven the senses. The mouthwatering fizziness of this striking fruit is enhanced with woody depths.
Fragrance Combining™ with Wood Sage & Sea Salt for a spicy and fresh scent.
Yuja Cologne 30ml CHF 74.–, 100ml CHF 142.–

Waterlily: Radiant white waterlilies, crown jewels of a secret garden pond. Their pristine petals release a clean floralcy that stirs and enchants.
Fragrance Combining™ with English Pear & Freesia for a blossoming, gourmand scent.
Waterlily Cologne 30ml CHF 74.–, 100ml CHF 142.–

Nectarine Blossom & Honey Cologne Pen: Our playful fruity scent in an innovative new Cologne Pen, designed to take with you. Succulent and sweet.
Nectarine Blossom & Honey Cologne Pen, CHF 37.–

REDISCOVER BELOVED BLOSSOMS
Osmanthus: Delicately exotic, these tiny white blossoms capture the duality of soft, apricot sweetness against contrasting deep, warming notes. Luscious and luminous.
Fragrance Combining™ with Peony & Blush Suede for a flirtatious and juicy scent.
Osmanthus Blossom Cologne 30ml CHF 74.–, 100ml CHF 142.–

Silk Blossom: Nature’s blooms at their most tempting. The sweet scent of silk tree blossom, irresistible to hummingbirds and butterflies. Joyful and apricot-fresh.
Fragrance Combining™ with Wild Bluebell for a fresh floral scent.
Silk Blossom Cologne 30ml, CHF 74.–, 100ml, CHF 142.–

LIMITED EDITION ORANGE BLOSSOM
A shimmering garden oasis, imagined for your home. Scent your space with a special-edition Diffuser or spread this delightful floral fragrance with the new Home Candle. Sparkling and blooming.
Orange Blossom Home Candle 200g, CHF 86.–
Orange Blossom Diffusor, CHF 96.–

In stores now, only for a limited time.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Jo Malone
Follow: @JoMaloneLondon #BrilliantBlossoms

There is one thing I truly dislike about limited edition fragrances, if you end up loving it, you’re doomed to never have it again. But sometimes you get lucky as a brand hears what the customers wish for and brings back an in-demand product.

It’s happened with other fragrance houses before, and now, with Jo Malone London, it’s happening again. In 2018, the brand released the English Fields collection, for the previous post click here please, which had five limited edition colognes that used cereals and grains as the main focus. Part of the collection was Poppy & Barley, a soft, cheerful and inviting floral scent, that was the most well-received. It captures the scent of succulent cereal fields, where fresh flowers grow alongside golden harvest grains. Opening with vibrant poppies, this fragrance is topped with juicy blackcurrants and balanced with a hint of rose. It’s grounded with a woody barley base, evoking an English meadow.

By popular demand, Poppy & Barley will now be part of the brand’s permanent collection as both a cologne and a body and hand wash. And whether you’re already a fan of the fragrance or want to know what the fuss is about, it is available in Switzerland now at Jelmoli Zurich, Globus Zurich, Globus Glatt, Globus Bellevue, Globus Lucerne, Globus Geneva, Globus Lausanne und at Hyazinth in Basel.

30ml Cologne 30ml / CHF 72.00 – 100ml / CHF 135.- CHF 250ml
Body & Hand Wash 250ml / CHF 47.00

Fragrance Combining™
Poppy & Barley with Honeysuckle & Davana  – vivid and floral
Poppy & Barley with Wood Sage & Sea Salt – for a mineral freshness
Poppy & Barley with Myrrhe & Tonka – warm, gourmand and opulent (my favorite)

TO SHOP POPPY & BARLEY ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: @JoMaloneLondon #PoppyAndBarley
(The fragrance was sent to me as a press sample).

Here is your anti-gloom remedy, a cheerful interpretation to be creative. Meet the fun universe of SOLINOTES and their eaux de parfum that were specifically developed to be worn alone, or layered to create a unique signature scent. With a collection of 15 unique fragrances, a multitude of scented combinations can be created to suit your personality, style and mood. A simple concept which, like a fashion accessory, gives each woman the freedom to flaunt her own identity and express her femininity!

My favorite combination for summer: Tiare and Vanilla

How does it work?

1. Pick up two fragrances you would like to mix
2. Spray on your skin to associate the fragrances together
3. Enjoy your unique perfume

The Essentials: Orange Blossom, Vanilla, Tiare, Cherry Blossom
Floral Scents: Frangipani Flower, Jasmin Blossom, Iris Blossom, Fig Tree Blossom
Novelties: Pink Grafruit, Yuzu, White Tea, Pomegranate
Timeless Perfumes: Musk, Rose, Blackberry

To get off to a faultless start, I recommend to spice up a floral bouquet with citrus, or to mix a fruit note with vanilla.

In Switzerland, the collection is exclusively available at Manor for CHF 15.90 (50ml) and CHF 9.90 (15ml) each. Create your own perfume book and write a new chapter each day depending on your mood!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Solinotes, © Sandra Bauknecht

Every year, Jo Malone launches a limited edition blossom based fragrance for the summer months. So let me introduce you to the new Nashi Blossom Cologne. First of all, before virtually smelling it, how fun is the polka-dot adorned glass bottle and the flash of green bottle cap.

What is nashi blossom?
It is the fruit of a pear tree. Traditionally in East Asia the tree’s flowers are a popular symbol of early spring, and it is a common sight in gardens and the countryside. It is also called «Chinese pear».

How does the new fragrance smell?
The fragrance created by Fabrice Pellegrin is extremely yummy with a fresh citrusy opening, followed by a trail of pear, apple, nashi blossom and rose, all intermingled with a creamy musk base.

NASHI BLOSSOM
Citrusy Floral

Top Notes: Lemon
Middle Notes: Nashi Blossom
Base Notes: White Musk

Fragrance Combining™
Nashi Blossom works best in combination with Nectarine Blossom & Honey for a fruity-floral mixture and with Dark Amber & Ginger Lily for a more sensual but light creation.

This limited edition will be available in Switzerland from May 2, 2016 as Cologne 30ml (CHF 72.00) and 100ml (CHF 136.00) at Globus Geneva, Globus Lucerne and Jelmoli Zurich.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Jo Malone

«This scent is about framing the orris to bring out its unique duality; it is both woody and powdery, floral and deep.» Pierre Négrin, Master Perfumer

Jo Malone is adding a new fragrance to their Cologne Intense collection: ORRIS & SANDALWOOD, a beautiful warm and sensual scent, reminiscent of aromatic Tuscan hills.

Top notes: Violet
Middle notes: Orris
Base notes: Sandalwood

Fragrance Combining™
For added warmth, combine it with Mimosa & Cardamom. For a more floral depth, it works best with Dark Amber & Ginger Lily.

The new Cologne Intense will be available from January 4, 2016 for CHF 165.00 (100ml).
In Switzerland at Globus Geneva and Jelmoli Zurich.

LoL, Sandra

Photo: Courtesy of Jo Malone

Jo Malone will launch Incense & Cedrat in February. The new fragrance was inspired by Omani incense and joins the Cologne Intense Collection. Celine Roux, Fragrance Director, says: “It’s the most historic and precious incense in the world. We loved the way it’s so intrinsic to Omani culture, often layered with other scents. This made complete sense to us as the philosophy of Fragrance Combining™ is an intrinsic part of our DNA.“

Omani incense has never before been captured in perfumery before. Marie Salamagne, Master Perfumer, explains the technique behind: “The really special thing about this project is that we used NaturePrint™. We spent months scouring Oman for the finest incense before bringing it back to the laboratory. When I smelt the NaturePrint™ note it was instantly inspiring. It was so close to nature. The traditional smokiness was there but there was also a freshness, something illuminating.“

The Omani incense, which is harvested from the Bowsellia sacra tree, is found in Dhofar, Oman. Incense is extracted by incising the bark. At certain times of year the trees are cut with special knives releasing tears of fresh resin which are left to dry in the sun. At the beginning of April, as soon as the temperatures start to rise, the incense gatherers cut the frankincense trees in many places. The first ‘cut’ consists of paring off the outer bark of the branches and trunk. Then three more follow. The process requires great skill and the same families work on the harvest for centuries.

Incense & Cedrat features a headspace note from the Boswellia sacra (frankincense) tree. Additional notes include lemon, pepper, elemi, labdanum and benzoin. Jo Malone Incense & Cedrat will be available as 100 ml Cologne Intense for CHF 165.00 from February 2, 2015 in Switzerland at Jelmoli Zurich and Globus Geneva.

A great tip regarding Fragrance Combining™ comes from Marie Salamagne: “In combination with another Cologne Intense, Oud & Bergamot, it develops a sophisticated woody note that’s hypnotic and masculine. And for a completely different mood, try layering Incense & Cedrat with Red Roses. It creates a multi-faceted rose fragrance, spicy and sensual with incense.”

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Jo Malone

Recently, Jo Malone invited me to discover the house’s newest fragrance Wood Sage & Sea Salt, which is inspired by the English coast during a lunch at the Zurich lake.

“For me this fragrance is different. The sea air mixes with salty spray and the mineral texture of sand and rock. Like the scent of driftwood, it has a natural and fresh sophistication. A complex combination of wood and the sea is at its core. The feeling is of free-spirited liberty and joy.” says master perfumer Christine Nagel, the nose behind this new beautiful scent.

Unlike other beach scents that smell of coconut and suncream oil, Wood Sage & Sea Salt truly surprises you. It is reminiscent of English beaches and the harsh surroundings, such as wind, rain, sand in your mouth and salt in your hair, but still without loosing its sensuality and lightness.

AROMATIC
Top note: Ambrette seeds
Middle note: Sea salt
Base note: Sage

Fragrance Combining: Lime Basil & Mandarin for a fresh, woody scent.
Nectarine Blossom & Honey for a fruity, rich scent.

Wood Sage & Sea Salt is available from September 1, 2014 as 30ml (CHF 68.00) and 100ml (CHF 130.00) Cologne, Body Cream 175ml (CHF 99.00), Body & Hand Wash 250ml (CHF 64.00) and Home Candle 200gr (CHF 82.00).In Switzerland at Globus Geneva and Jelmoli Zurich.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Jo Malone

Just as there’s a tea to suit every taste and disposition, there is a Tea Cologne for every style and mood. Jo Malone unveils a limited edition collection, inspired by the most quintessential of British traditions: the Art of Tea. 

The Tea Collection, in five modern and unexpected fragrances, encapsulates Jo Malone’s hallmark simplicity and elegant restraint: Assam & Grapefruit, Earl Grey & Cucumber, Fresh Mint Leaf, Sweet Lemon and Sweet Milk.

And of course the Tea Collection lends itself to being personalised with Jo Malone’s unique philosophy of Fragrance Combining™. In true British style, the collection allows you to combine your Tea Fragrance Blend, with a dash of Sweet Lemon or a splash of Sweet Milk. 

You are invited to visit your nearest Jo Malone counter to test those lovely scents now.
Available in 30ml for CHF 68.

Assam and Grapefruit is a refreshing and energetic aroma, invigorating like the first morning cup of tea. It opens with notes of grapefruit, violet and rhubarb. The heart includes Assam Indian black tea and rose, spiced with cardamom and placed on the base of patchouli, almond and musk.

Top notes: grapefruit, violet, rhubarb
Heart: Assam tea, rose, cardamom
Base: patchouli, musk, almond

Earl Grey and Cucumber is a playful interpretation of the most famous English tea brand, made from black tea, bergamot and citruses. The composition opens with apple, bergamot, jasmine and aquatic notes, with cucumber, angelica and davana in the heart, on the base of vanilla, bees wax, cedar and musk.

Top notes: bergamot, apple, jasmine, water notes
Heart: angelica, cucumber, davana
Base: beeswax, vanilla, cedar and musk

Fresh Mint Leaf is a refreshing aroma based on green mint. It starts with notes of basil, mint, and bergamot. The heart is composed of water jasmine and rhubarb, laid on the base of mate tea, cedar and musk.

Top notes: basil, mint, bergamot
Heart: water jasmine, rhubarb
Base: mate, musk, cedar

Sweet Lemon is a fruity mixture that you can combine with any of the previous fragrances from this collection. The composition starts off with sparkling lemon, bergamot and rhubarb. Middle notes include pineapple, freesia and peach, placed on cypress, cedar and musk nuances.

Top notes: lemon, bergamot, rhubarb
Heart: pineapple, freesia, peach
Base: cypress, musk, cedar

Sweet Milk, as well as the previous fragrance, serves as an “additional tea flavor” and can be combined with the other fragrances of the collection. Its gourmand composition begins with star anise, heliotrope and bergamot. Milk and caramel are in the center, rounded by almond, vanilla and musk.

Top notes: star anise, heliotrope, bergamot
Heart: milk, caramel
Base: vanilla, almond, musk

Jo Malone will launch a new, limited-edition perfume from May 2011 called Sakura Cherry Blossom destined to celebrate the beauty and transiency of blossoming cherry trees in the springtime. The composition was created by perfumer Christine Nagel working in tandem with the Jo Malone Creative Studio in London.

“A symbol of beauty and new beginnings, cherry blossom trees grow throughout Japan and for centuries have been celebrated in every medium, from poetry to painting. No flower captures the Japanese aesthetic as powerfully as the cherry blossom.”

Top Notes: bergamot, mandarin, cardamom
Heart: rose, mimosa
Base: musk, woods

Sakura Cherry Blossom works very well in combination with French Lime Blossom or Orange Blossom.
Available in 30ml (CHF 68) or 100ml (CHF 130).

My personal favourite combinations are at the moment: Earl Grey & Cucumber with Sweet Milk and Cherry Blossom with French Lime Blossom.

Definitely my cup of tea!

LoL, Sandra

No wonder there is traditionally a queue around the block from her shops at Christmas. The name Jo Malone sends most women into a reverie of pristine cream boxes with black edging and grosgrain ribbons filled with original fresh scents.

The products are wonderful gifts. Even the tissue paper is misted with fragrance so that the Jo Malone experience starts already when lifting the lit.

As a child, Jo Malone would make her own perfumes with flowers from the garden and grated Camay soap. Her mother was a beautician and her father an artist.
She worked as a florist and gave facials in her kitchen at night. Soon she became one of London’s most sought-after skin care therapist. It was when she met her husband Gary at the age of 19, that their business, featuring handmade scents and products, took off. She gave her Nutmeg and Ginger Bath Oil as a thank you to her clients and the orders began to flood in.

Jo Malone opened her first store at 154 Walton Street in London in 1994. By 1999, she launched her flagship store in London’s Sloane Street. That same year her company was purchased by Estée Lauder with Jo Malone still at its UK helm as chairwoman and creative director. Then in 2006, she sold it to them in its entirety.

For deeper, richer dimension to your home, it’s decorating with scent that makes the difference. Shouldn’t the fragrance ambience of your home be as inviting as the fragrance on your skin?

For her, perfume and stories go hand in hand, each cologne has been inspired by a real moment. Think of fragrances as your little black dress. You can create your bespoke scent by mixing, matching and layering with other Jo Malone colognes for endless effects. Accessorize it extravagantly or pair it down, just follow your mood and make each day another statement.
This is the philosophy behind Jo Malone’s Fragrance Combining. In case you are worried that a cologne doesn’t last enough, you will be astonished how long the fragrances stay on. Especially in combination with the Jo Malone body products.

You can choose from all sorts of fragrance families such as floral, spicy or woody. For more details, please enjoy the collages below:

As I am a big fan of oriental, opulent fragrances, I am truly happy about Jo Malone’s new addition: The 4 new Colognes Intenses. Ingredients like rose water, amber, patchouli, vanilla, musk and oud give in combination a wonderful deepness to your bespoke scent. They were supposed to be limited but seem to stay in the collection due to their high demand.

To the left, you can see a photo of my very own bathroom and its little Jo Malone display.
For a store locator, please click here. For my Zurich based readers, I have good news. There is a Jo Malone corner now at Jelmoli.

LoL, Sandra