Påtch

This is actually pretty bright and fizzy (the way many of the And and Lush scents are). The patchouli, which is green and humid rather than dark and earthy, works its way forward as the scent progresses but the wear remains pretty light. Uplifting, yet grounded. I see this working well on warmer autumn or cooler spring days.

First whiff: lemon and verbena. Very fresh and green scent, but in a herbal, rather than fruity way. I was worried it's too much like an air refresher, but that feeling goes away after a couple of minutes. Then I noticed the patchouli, with works nicely with the top notes. It's more sophisticated patchouli, and not an overpowering one either. Patch has a slightly powdery, smooth quality underneath all that freshness. I'm shocked to see that neither lemon nor verbena are listed as ingredients! Definitely a very unisex scent. I could smell it on my wrist 6h hours after application, so the longevity is not bad. Excited to see how this plays out over time.

This is a very well done patchouli, and the fact I don't hate it is saying something (it is NOT my thing). There is a fruitiness to it that makes is more 'fragrance' than the good old leather jacket oil face punch. Lots of love for this house! Super strong ethics, and OK, I'm not overly a fan of patchouli, the supersweet 'cake', or the big bitter woody that is 'bark', but the rest of them are REALLY good! The sample set is a brilliant way in too!

The brand: I ordered the whole collection (9 fragrances) in the sample set. I bought this brand because I love LUSH perfume - can't get any closer than the nose behind LUSH perfumes for a decade. I typically go for unusual perfumes that tell a story. I love that you can try before you buy, unlike other retailers. I'm not sure why perfume retailers don't offer this... I'm much more likely to indulge in a new perfume if I can test samples at home. I also love the company identity - it's refreshing and authentic. Plus the fact it's ethically and organically sourced. Disclaimer: I tested all perfumes and think this brand is currently more geared towards a male/unisex audience. I personally prefer feminine perfumes so was quite disappointed, but I *completely* appreciated every fragrance - they are all very unusual, interesting, potent, complex, and tell a story. There's no 'synthetic' smell - you can tell quality ingredients have been used. Using this product feels meaningful and authentic because you're helping indigenous communities to survive and rebuild their land lost to deforestation - such a beautiful motive. So I'd definitely recommend buying the sample pack - also makes a cute present, and a bargain for just £25! The perfume: Apparently, the vibe is meant to be about 1980 at a metal festival, full of rockers in leather, smoking some funky things... First spray - a blast of spiced peppercorn that lingers. This dries down with a musky hint of sweat? It's very earthy and way too masculine for me. I didn't know patchouli could be so strong and made so bitter :(. I've given this one to my other half!

The initial blast is a strong, sweet patchouli, reminiscent of the opening of Midnight Poison the patchouli is that strong. The name is certainly reflected in the fragrance, that’s for sure! This is sweet yet sharp, and a bit sour too. I wouldn’t say I can smell any of the other ingredients in particular, and definitely no barnyardy oud at all! The overall effect is sharp and tangy, rich and earthy. If you’re looking for a strong patchouli then give this a go!