There’s nothing quite like getting lost in the hustle and bustle of a vibrant, cosmopolitan city like London, Paris or New York. Whether you’re there for the art, fashion, food or simply to soak up the atmosphere, these stunning metropolises offer a veritable feast for all the senses.
Drink up the incredible sights, set against the hypnotic soundtrack of cities at work and play. Immerse yourself in the history of the people, captured in time through the magnificent architecture. Breathe in those powerfully evocative scents, the exhilarating clash of aromas from bars, cafés, restaurants and street markets, that lie at the heart of what truly makes each city unique.
At Les Senteurs, we love a fragrance that tells a story. This week we’ve focused on fragrances that have been inspired by the complexity, romance and sheer adventure of those urban vistas. Crafted by some of the world’s most talented perfumers, here, we feature some of our favourite city-inspired fragrances that conjure up the vibrant days and electric nightlife of three of the most well-loved capitals.
London
Even by day, London is steeped in a rumbling moody presence that speaks of its many hidden mysteries. Origins of the Collector captures this essence beautifully; resinous olibanum provides an intriguing introduction, while black espresso and patchouli form a captivatingly dark centre. Vanilla and amber show the city’s warmer side; the comforting memory of cosying up with a good book in one of the many boutique coffee shops.
Gradually the whirlwind of busy commuters gives way to the hubbub of crowded restaurants and street vendors that send out the smells of countless spices. A misty drizzle colours the grey cobblestones and tints the air with the earthy scent of rain. These enigmatic hues come alive in Saffron Wood 91 by Parle Moi de Parfum, where saffron and cedar blend elegantly with the timeless and delicate aromas of rose. A metallic leather essence emerges from the base, a nod to London's rich and eclectic nightlife.
Paris
Stylish shoppers walk briskly down the wide avenues amidst the regal buildings. Over their heads, the refreshing and subtle scent of cut flowers drifts over from the famed Marché aux Fleurs, while an ozonic undercurrent floats on the breeze from the River Seine nearby. Suspended above the Seine, the Mirabeau bridge stands firmly, resisting the flow of time. Sous le Pont Mirabeau by Etat Libre d’Orange captures the beauty of this bridge and the romanticism of Paris: releasing fresh and sparkling notes of bergamot alongside the green and fruity accents of fig and violet leaves and the bright and spicy facets of pink berry.
As evening descends, a hedonistic frenzy takes hold, as music and laughter mingle with the smoke in the air at the cabaret bars and basements of infamous jazz clubs. The Purple Bar by Cherigan encapsulates the vibrant Parisian nightlife with its zesty cocktail: spicy notes of cinnamon and clove are lifted by the fruity and caramelised scent of davana. Warm vanilla and deep, dark patchouli evoke the intoxicating spirit of dimly lit bars overspilling with merriment and dancing right into the early hours.
New York
In the city that never sleeps, the relentless hustle and bustle is like a never-ending dance as pedestrians side-step one another on the pavements and taxis dodge traffic in the streets. Sweet warm scents waft from the coffee shops and popcorn vendors, mixing tantalisingly on a breeze that freshens with greener, leafy accords as you get closer to Central Park. The pulsating energy of the Big Apple resonates in the composition of 724 by Maison Francis Kurkdjian: fresh crisp aldehydes and zesty bergamot match the city’s energetic pace, while rich white florals and musks bring the vitality and headstrong dynamism so characteristic of this thriving cosmopolitan hub.
Skyscrapers reach their glass crowns into the clouds, solemnly watching the day darken into a carousel of bright lights, Broadway signs and trendy bars. The sweet tang of cocktails mix with the night air’s bitter smokiness, an almost irresistible invitation to give yourself over to the city’s insatiable appetite for exuberance. Apple Brandy on the Rocks by Kilian bottles this unbridled sense of freedom with a crisp fruity opening that harmonises with brandy upon a structure of cedarwood and ambroxan; an olfactory prelude to thrilling nights ahead.