Everyone deserves nice perfume. At least one bottle.

Some people can find what they love at Sephora or a department store, but others want something different, and if that’s you, then your starting point needs to be Diptyque, arguably the very first niche perfume house ever. Unfortunately, the person at my local Diptyque counter is useless, and insists on selling me Eau Rose, which is the best-seller but definitely not for everyone. It’s the one that’s an easy sell but that doesn’t mean it’s the best.

You need to start with Tam Dao if you want Sandalwood, or Do Son, which is what I put on today after a hot hot day outside.

Do Son came out in 2005 and is a white floral perfume but don’t let that turn you off. It’s actually so much more than that.

Inspired by a vacation resort in Indochina, this scent feels like an upscale resort. The tuberose has coconut with it and a bit of warm green. There’s a slightly aquatic feel not unlike a seabreeze. It’s absolutely perfect for spring or summer, and it really worked today.

I went to the Calgary Stampede today (the greatest outdoor show on Earth?, rides, cotton candy, horses), where the grounds are hot and unforgiving under a July sun, and I kept dousing myself in sunscreen. I needed to change the air when I got home, and reached for Do Son. Probably because it’s been on my mind. Do Son wears quite sheer, and has the rounded corners that are the hallmark of Diptyque. This would be a safe and discreet scent, especially for close quarters. It’s very chill. I have the EDT, but it also comes in an EDP. I find the toilette to be softer, fresher, and I enjoy that.

People say that Do Son is Diptyque’s version of Carnal Flower but they’re totally different. Carnal Flower feels damp, Do Son is watery. Serge Lutens Tubereuse Criminelle is minty, Datura Noir is sweeter.