Tom Ford Rose de Russie

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.

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Francesca Bianchi Tyger Tyger

In Tyger TygerFrancesca Bianchi Perfumes seeks to contrast but also balance a post-apocalyptic darkness with refined, sophisticated brightness and seductive floralcy. The whitest of flowers are juxtaposed, in theory, with oud, animalics, and the darkest and smokiest of leathers. But as writers going back to Sophocles have made clear, there is a chasm between theory (appearance to be specific) and reality. Skin chemistry made my reality quite different from the intended objective. 

Source: shutterstock.com

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Maitre Parfumeur et Gantier Patchouli 1969

My brothers and sisters, my fellow addicted Patch Heads, sit up and heed my words: Maitre Parfumeur et Gantier‘s Patchouli 1969 is a hidden gem. I loved it so much that I bought the full 4 oz bottle for myself just a few hours into my second testing of it. Fans of Guerlain’s LIDGE (L’Instant de Guerlain Eau Extreme) may want to pay attention, too.

Source: wallpaperswa.com

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Dior Tobacolor (La Collection Privée)

The last in my series of Dior reviews will be for Tobacolor, the ambered fruited tobacco entry in Dior’s exclusive, high-end, and quasi-niche Privée Collection (now sometimes referred to as the “Maison Christian Dior” Collection).

Dior Tobacolor. Photo: Dior.

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