Review and Giveaway: Leslie Blodgett Bare Skin Perfume CLOSED

I recently confessed my loyalties regarding perfume. I rarely dress up in more than jeans and a tee (or sweater now that fall has arrived) so I tend to stick with my tried-and-true favorite scents. However, I am beginning to branch out and explore different fragrances so neither I nor the hubby will grow too bored with the same 'ole same 'ole.

I had the pleasure of reviewing a sample of a brand new, limited-edition perfume called Bare Skin from none other than Leslie Blodgett, the mastermind behind the sensational Bare Escentuals/Bare Minerals makeup brand. I adore Bare Minerals and actually used several of the products on my wedding day. The mineral powder feels so light and airy but provides full coverage. There is nothing like it. So I had a feeling I would love their new perfume as much as I love the makeup.

Imagine you're on a tropical beach. The warm rays are beating down on you. There is nothing on the agenda for days, save for sunbathing, sipping umbrella drinks and sleeping in. Leslie Blodgett has captured the ultimate vacation through fragrance with this intoxicating blend of creamy sensuality, dreamy florals and sexy musks. Glowing, gorgeous sun-kissed skin that just begs to be touched is at the heart of this limited-edition scent, created exclusively for Sephora.

When I first opened the sample, I have to say I was a bit disappointed. It was quite strong and a bit more musky than I typically like. It almost reminded me of my husband's cologne. I had to double check the package because I thought they had maybe sent me the wrong fragrance! Alas, it was the right one after all. I dabbed just a drop on my wrist, went about my business and held out hope that it would not give me a migraine.

I'm happy to report it did not let me down. While the top notes were rather harsh, the middle and base notes really settled nicely on the dry down. It was still musky but instead of an overpowering turnoff, it transitioned to a sexy, sandalwood scent. I didn't associate this perfume with summer or the beach at all. Instead, I imagined wearing it on a mountain resort getaway, traveling the snowy plains in a cozy sweater and parka, hand in hand with my husband. Or going out on a dinner date in a little black dress. It made me feel powerful and confident, but also a little rebellious. Like a different woman, but not in a bad way. It was definitely mature and womanly - not like the sweet, girly perfumes I tend to go for. My husband also liked it (he prefers muskier fragrances on me) so I'll be sure to keep wearing it. *wink wink*

I should also note it lasted all afternoon long - there was a lingering scent even after I showered that evening!

Bottom line: If you can forget your expectations based on the product description and forgive the initial intensely musky smell, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. It is a great warm scent to combat the chill of the fall/winter season.

BUY IT: Bare Skin is sold exclusively at Sephora, as a eau de parfum spray, solid fragrance or perfumed body cream (ARV $30-$55).

WIN IT: I have another sample of Bare Skin to send to one lucky reader!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): I'm going to switch it up a little for this giveaway. It's a TWITTER CONTEST! The 50th RT of this message will win it:

RT @kris10chumley 50th RT will win a sample of the new limited-edition Leslie Blodgett Bare Skin perfume! U.S. addresses only. Please RT!

I will update once we reach the magic number. Good luck and happy tweeting!

UPDATE: We have our winner! Congratulations, Sheryl @mzcutie90!

Disclaimer: I received two free samples of Bare Skin perfume from Catherine at American Pop Digital. I was in no other way compensated for this post. The opinions expressed in this review are purely mine. You may have a different experience after trying this product.