Salvatore Ferragamo Acqua Essenziale

Spring has sprung meaning one thing: it's time for a new fresh fragrance like Acqua Essenziale by Salvatore Ferragamo.

You might recall how much I love a good rich smokey scent, but the new equinox calls for many changes to my grooming routine (including a light-weight toner and moisturizer). Besides, smelling like an Old Boys clubroom doesn't exactly scream I'm-on-a-yacht-in-Capri, does it?

For Spring there are a few 'rules' regarding fragrance. Firstly go light and stay seasonal. There really is nothing worse than overpowering a room with your 'Eau de Whatever'. Ferragamo's Acqua Essenziale is perfect in that it boasts aromatic notes of geranium, rosemary and lavender - all of which are currently in season. Essentially it's like eating seasonally (think Gwyneth), so why not smell like what's in season too? It makes sense.

Ferragamo's perfumer Alberto Morillas included top notes of mint and lemon-tree leaf in Acqua Essenziale to enhance the casual vibe of the fragrance (I'm definitely thinking shorts). The dry notes (including patchouli, vetiver and cistus) add an ultra-refined yet musky quality, reflective of the Ferragamo gentleman. While that all sounds great, let's be honest, they had me at the name. I am Mr Essentialist after all...

Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Hydrator

There's been a re-shuffle on my bathroom shelf, and Aesop's Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Hydrator has emerged as king.

While this may come as a surprise (especially considering my past declarations of moisturizer-loyalty), people (and their skin) change. And change is good. Besides, a new season is upon us, so really there isn't a better time than the present to mix it-up (you know, carpe diem and all). Even if we're just talking moisturizers.

I recently discovered Aesop (via their newly launched mouthwash) and have been captivated ever since. For me it was all about their streamlined packaging, quirky quotes and recommended reading tips - all of which undoubtedly add a cool factor to my bathroom shelf. And while we all know never to judge a book by its cover, beneath Aesop's packaging lies a wealth of promise. That being said, let's get down to business.

Essentially Aesop's Parsley Seed range is nothing short of botanical bliss. The Anti-Oxidant Hydrator is the latest release in a string of Parsley Seed-centric products (which also includes a fantastic toner, fyi). Packed with a whole bunch of botanicals, essential oils and vitamins (including Provitamin B), the lightweight moisturizer leaves skin feeling supple, dewy and refreshed. Besides the signature extract, the hydrator features an array of core ingredients like white tea and willowherb - both of which serve to sooth and comfort (and we all need a little soothing and comforting from time-to-time, non?). 

And in semi-related news Henry David Thoreau once said, "it is only when we forget all our learning that we begin to know". Perhaps there's a subliminal mix-up-your-grooming-routine message in there somewhere.

Happy almost-Friday.

*The Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Hydrator is available online and in key stores on March 18th, and will retail for $65.