Come up/out of something smelling of roses
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Positive Outcome
Use when someone retains a good reputation despite challenges. 
After the debate, despite tough questions, the candidate came out smelling of roses.
Pro Tip 2/3Surprising Success
The phrase often implies surprise that someone avoided harm. 
Although the project failed, somehow she came up smelling of roses.
Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Roses
Roses symbolize purity and success; no actual smell or flowers are involved. 
Her investment choices were risky, but she came out of it smelling of roses.