Monsieur

Monsieur is calm, but deliberate, studied in appearance, well-groomed. The verbena radiance that opens this affair seems almost too simple, but as it sustains its chord, it stuns me with its naturalistic beauty, lemony and leafy, beaming off my skin. The green-rosy herbal underline of geranium pulls the verbena in and dances with it, and it feels like filtered afternoon sunlight and garden party cheer. A legible nutmeg is a warm texture that smooths out the crispness. A powdery vetiver and cedar are its coda. I imagine wearing a straw boater and a striped summer suit while Monsieur graces my skin. I am in fact part of a barbershop quartet, which seems so appropriate, as this feels so smart, so dapper, and full of harmony. Now that I find myself humming Sweet Adeline, I will warn you that this is not meant for the performance bros, it is not built for bombast. There is no "smellmaxxing" potential here, my young 'broccoloids,' as this is intended as a dignified enhancement, reflecting a time when sweatpants were strictly for the gymnasium.

You're initially hit with a huge bright burst of Lemon Verbena and Bergamot which is soon taken over by a rich Geranium note. Beautiful juice, unquestionably top-quality ingredients, but it's not particularly complex. For what a 75ml costs, I'd either opt for Diptyque's Geranium Odorata or Creed's Vetiver Geranium, although the latter would have to be a Black Friday purchase (which happens to be today) to justify the cost. Packaging for Monsieur couldn't be beat though. Everything about the presentation is 100% top notch.

This stuff is worth its weight in gold. This is a gorgeous, spicy Lemon-ginger tea smell made richer and brighter by the concentration of natural oils. The cedar, vetiver, and verbena keep that initial feeling alive hours into the fragrance. This is a fantastic composition. Two thumbs up for this one. There is a beautiful powder that comes through on the far dry-down, which easily reaches past 12 hours. Beautiful artistry in this bottle. This reminds me of Creed’s style of composition, but lighter and more elegant!

Bought a bottle yesterday at the British Box in Milan. The shop in itself is worth the detour. The fragrance is charming with a fresh start and a sophisticated drydown, if it makes sense without naming smells. Impeccable taste.

Calm, fresh,smooth. I love it!