Sensory exploration for this season is actually pretty incredible, particularly in London where a multi-sensory exhibition called PERFUME just launched in the East Wing of Somerset House. The exhibition, sponsored by COTY features ten extraordinary perfumes and their pioneering creators, who have radically changed our perceptions of fragrance over the last 20 years. I had the chance to experience PERFUME privately earlier in the week courtesy of COTY; for me the most intriguing part of the immersive journey is the mystery of not knowing who the fragrance is designed by as you experience the curator’s immersive creation inspired by the scent. The olfactory journey through the rooms is a pretty great adventure, from a magnetic gun metal ball pit to the Moroccan desert, a Catholic confessional and a water theme park, it’s a really enjoyable visit. A personal highlight was being able to experience the L’Origan Coty from 1905 – a scent that sadly no longer exists due to ingredients legalities. The exhibit is open until 23 September.
July also saw the release of a duo scent from Emporia Armani – Because Of You and Stronger With You. I mean, duality as a theme is pretty timeless and current (what’s up NEO 10Y), so it’s not surprising that I was really into this as a concept and experience. Don’t let the super heteronormative narrative fool you, both scents work for both sexes and mixing the two also creates a really unique blend especially with the top notes of cardamom, pink pepper, violet leaves with a base of vanilla and musk.
Last but never least, Tom Ford just unveiled Mandarino Di Amalfi Acqua private blend, with the mandarin and blackcurrant top notes, combined with musk and amber base notes, it truly creates a vision of the serene Amalfi cliffside at night, with their citrus fruits with an almost nocturnal floral element.
Header image created with Diangular.