Agar Aura‘s Malayaku is a paradoxically simple yet complex shapeshifter – something which I’m starting to suspect may be a characteristic of many of Taha Syed‘s opulently rich creations. I think it will appeal to fans of high-quality vetiver, leather, frankincense, tobacco, oud, and sexy dark musks. So let’s take a detailed look at the scent.
Source: wallpapers.com
Tom Ford Rose de Russie. Photo: Tom Ford.
Tom Ford‘s Rose de Russie is described as an “opulent, darkly dramatic rose” that evokes “the extravagant allure of night.” Symbolically, I suppose the “dark” part of his hyperbole may have some basis in fact. On an olfactory level, however, I have to say “Hmph.” I would – and will – describe the fragrance quite differently.
Rose de Russie is an eau de parfum that is part of the Private Blend collection. It was released in February 2022 as part of a trio of rose scents anticipating Valentine’s Day. I’m unclear as to whether the trio are limited edition releases or if they’re permanent. At the time of this review, I’ve read both that it’s limited and that it will remain as part of the line.
Areej Le Doré (“ALD” or Areej“) is as, some of you know, my favourite artisanal brand. Today, a look at Antiquity (which I went gaga for), War & Peace, a stellar fragrance, and the bright, easy, sunlit Siberian Summer. All three Series 5 fragrances are excellent but, alas, now out of stock due to being limited-edition releases. Still, I thought my old 2019 reviews might be of some value for those who ordered samples or bottles and who might like a detailed analysis thereof.
Areej Le Doré Antiquity. Phooto: my own
Vintage Miss Dior by Christian Dior is a fragrance loved by men and women alike. I finally understood why when I went back in time to try a 1950s/60s eau de toilette version. It was extremely different than the Miss Dior eau de toilettes that I’d tried in passing during the 1980s and 1990s. What an absolute stunner! It was a highly sophisticated, unisex, floral, smoky cuir de russie leather on me as much as a floral chypre
Oddly, however, when doing a comparative review with the same era cologne concentration, I had a dramatically different experience.
Vintage Miss Dior EDC, left, and Vintage Miss Dior EDT, right. Both from the same era.