Sniff Test
Sniff Test
A scent's name, ad, or bottle can influence its effect on us. Allure editors placed eight new perfumes in unmarked vessels and asked Givaudan perfumer Calice Becker and scent expert Jan Moran to describe them.
Excerpts from a fragrance editorial by Angelique Serrano, Sniff Test.
Christian Dior Cologne Royale, with bergamot, mint, and lemon.
"A total refreshment, with citrus and mint. It can be unisex." --Calice
"Very clean." --Jan
Elizabeth Arden Pretty Hot, with red currant, red peony, and freesia.
"Easy to wear - young, petal-y, and well-mannered." --Calice
"The sheer florals have an innocence, a lightness of heart." --Jan
Jimmy Choo, with tiger orchid, toffee, and patchouli.
"Something to wear with smoky eyes." --Calice
"Oh, pretty. It's a soft floral bouquet, feminine and romantic." --Jan
Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau So Fresh, with violet, rose, and apple blossom.
"It has a strong personality, but in a good way." --Calice
"Rose and violet jump out; a green tone gives it freshness." --Jan
Banana Republic Wildbloom, with guava, pink grapefruit, and hydrangea.
"Sassy and fruity." --Calice
"A brilliant bouquet of white flowers tinged with tropical fruit." --Jan
Versace Vanita, with tiare flower, freesia, lime, and tonka bean.
"This chic, cool young lady might fly in from Paris for a walk down Sunset Boulevard." --Calice
"For a woman who likes to be the center of attention." --Jan
Issey Miyake L'eau d'Issey Florale, with rosebud, ginger lily, and mandarin.
"A nice splash after tennis, and before a cocktail party." --Calice
"English roses - it makes me think of garden parties." --Jan
Vera Wang Preppy Princess, with tangerine, jasmine, and coconut water.
"A boho-chic quality." --Calice
"It has joie de vivre." --Jan
(Serrano, Angelique. "Sniff Test." Allure Feb. 2011: 107.)
