Style Icon Linda Dresner Embraces "Dans Tes Bras"

Fashion icon Linda Dresner is known as much for discovering avant garde designers as for the bandana that tames her wild curls. Here, she shares a treasured scent:

Frederic Malle, Dans Tes Bras.

"I've been wearing this scent for about four years. I probably read about the designer in a magazine first of all, and in Paris I went to his little store because I happened to pass by. I went in and sprayed it, and I've been wearing it ever since."

Frederic Malle refers to himself as "an editor of perfumes." He publishes independent olfactory creations by legendary perfumers as "Editions de Parfums Frederic Malle." 

Dan Tes Bras was created by Maurice Roucel, a self-taught perfumer who began his career as a chemist at Chanel's Fragrance Laboratory in 1973. The fragrance is described as a "deep and lasting odor of warm skin, with all its salty hints and rich overtones." It contains cashmeran, sandalwood, musk and patchouli, reinforced with salicylates and incense, softened with heliotrope, and colored with a violet accord. (50 ml. spray, $165).

To read more about Linda Dresner's influential career in fashion, read my article in Birmingham Magazine here.

Find Your Scent Sign for a Fragrant 2013

The new year is a time for new opportunities, new experiences, and, of course, new perfume! As 2013 begins, check out which essential oil best compliments your zodiac sign. 

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 20): You are hard-working, self-disciplined, and practical, but sometimes you may forget to let yourself have a little fun. A bit of grapefruit oil could help lift your mood and revive your mind when you're feeling overwhelmed. 

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19): Your creativity and originality keep friends and family on their toes, and your inventiveness makes life a constant quest. Spearmint oil can keep your ideas flowing and your mind fresh.

PISCES (Feb. 20 - Mar. 20): You are intuitive and impulsive, with a natural curiosity and a tendency to get swept up in romance. In the new year, a dab of cedarwood can tie you down to earth when you need to focus. 

ARIES (Mar. 21 - Apr. 20): Strong-willed, organized, and independent, you are naturally driven to success, but prone to emotional breakdowns. Try a splash of rose to help you unwind after a long day and soften your emotional afflictions.

TAURUS (Apr. 21 - May 20): You are affectionate, loyal, and driven by your emotions, which makes it very easy to break your heart. In times of stress or sadness, jasmine can soothe your nerves, while boosting your confidence and optimism. 

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21): Although you are extremely brilliant, witty, and lively, your dual personalities and mood changes can be perplexing to the people around you. In 2013, a smidgen of patchouli could keep you grounded and balanced, so that others can enjoy the best of both of your sides. 

CANCER (June 22 - July 22): You are sensitive, affectionate, and nurturing, and sometimes you can let your reclusive mind and imagination get away from you. Sandalwood oil can reduce your confusion and promote harmony between your fantasies and reality.

LEO (July 23 - Aug. 23): Optimistic, enthusiastic, and ambitious, you are hungry for purpose and opportunity. When the going gets tough, some thyme oil can keep you concentrated and on top of your game.   

VIRGO (Aug. 24 - Sept. 22): You are very meticulous and detail-oriented, and you strive for perfection, organization and thoroughness. In the new year, try a dot of lavender on each wrist at bedtime to help you relax. 

LIBRA (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22): You are hard-working and fair-minded, but sometimes you can be so busy trying to please others that you forget to take care of your own needs. When the world weighs you down, clary sage can wash away depression, stress, and tension.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 22): Your calm, controlled exterior often shields an intense sea of inner emotions. If this wall is broken down, you may feel naked and defenseless. A splash of peppermint in the morning can cool your spirit, refresh your mind, and prepare you to face the day.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21): Open-minded and innately curious, you have an appetite for knowledge and activity. A dab of basil oil each morning can spare you from mental fatigue and provide clarity during your adventures.