It’s been a not so fun couple of sick days. So I’ve been trying a bunch of things including the new ATH and some new decants I have to try more. Since my nose was broke supposedly. Lol Hope all are well.

I want to send a huge shoutout to @Jamal Moore for sending over these decants and samples! I’m not going to have a chance to smell them yet but I’m sure they’re all going to be amazing! Can’t wait to try this Amiel Brown and the Memo Paris Moon Fever for sure! Thanks Jamal! You’re the MAN! Samples & Decants included • Amiel Brown CXLVII • Memo Paris Moon Fever • Pantheon Romo “O” • Issey Miyake Nuit D’Issey • Ferragamo Uomo Signature • L’Eau D’Issey Wood & Wood • House of Dastan Love Flame • Ferragamo Spicy Leather • Mattiere Premier falcon leather

I received my bottle of Liwa today, my third fragrance from the Widian line. I've been drawn to this house since purchasing Aswan. After I got London (recommended by BoS, particularly @Paul Bartnicki) I developed an incredible itch for more. Liwa is highly recommended, and I am anxious to try even more.

SOTD: Aswan by Widian (07/02/2025 Review) I received Aswan yesterday and didn't hesitate to make it my choice today. Widian's Aswan is a fruity-spicy fragrance that blends raspberry, bergamot, and pink pepper in the top notes; cedar and violet leaves in the middle; and leather, tobacco, vanilla, and musk in the base. There's also a realistic leather (not like smooth suede) that's subtly blended and stays constant throughout the experience. While initially fruity, the scent develops into a warmer, more amber and spicy fragrance. Aswan, for me, while having a notable leather note, is rather different than other leather-dominant fragrances like Parfums de Marly's Godolphin and Tom Ford's Tuscan Leather. This is primarily due to the fruity, bright and warm notes playing a relatively more significant role in Aswan. This makes Aswan more versatile, and while masculine leaning is also a great unisex option. The composition is rather unique, but not ground-breaking. While it may not be mass appealing, it is not offensive in my opinion.

---Choose a designer classic over a niche choice.--- What say you, Gents? As my nose developed, I naturally moved away from designers and more toward niche and indie offerings. But that's truly a disservice, there's many designers that are just as good, if not better than many niche out there! Which designer brand are you wearing today? What designer frag is as good as, if not superior than, niche? Post here or in the SOTD. Love to hear from ya'!