Holy, Mother! Part IV: Cartier Must pour Femme (1981)

#2) Not sure how Mom stumbled onto this one, but it became her signature scent for a while. She loved the powdery vanilla finish and bright floral topnotes. More than likely, I had bought it for myself, she commented on how great it was, and once again, I gave her my bottle.

MUSTde Cartier pour Femme

Notes: Galbanum, Mandarin, Neroli, Rose, Jasmine, Daffodil, Amber, Vetiver, Patchouli, Vanilla, and Tonka bean.

Pros: A beautiful green oriental with an almost grassy tone to the topnotes, and sweet amber-vanilla basenotes.

Cons: None


Reminds me of: In the style of Safari (green oriental) and L'Instant (ambery oriental).

Where can I buy it? $35.95 for a 50 ml edt spray at FragranceShop.com.

The Bottom Line: The current rendition of Must is truly a must-try for those who love vanilla and amber orientals. Having always dismissed it, a sales associate at Neimans sneaked a bottle over to the counter where I was sniffing and it was love at first encounter. Long before the men's counterpart launched, I myself wore Must and still do - the pure perfume is magnificent. On Mom's skin, the green topnotes are subdued and the powdery basenotes take centerstage. Definitely one of the classics of the last 25 years.

Rating (out of 10): 9

Is there a scent that both you and Mom enjoy wearing?