Z Straight 1

Stunning unisex fragrance. (My absolutely favorite of the 4 in the Pride Discovery Set which also includes B*ussy Power, Kissa Kitty...) I do not detect some of the listed notes (e.g. clay or florals). This opens up as a very photorealistic luscious fruit nectar accord - which James the perfumer did confirm to me is a fruit tincture. It smells like green muscat grapes to me. The drydown is slightly herbal from the ginseng while being fresh and clean and a bit soapy with a slight soapy aldehydic metallic edge (similar to the one found in Penhaligon's Sartorial, or Atelier 14 by Sentire). This is squarely a unisex scent both my husband and I love wearing. Also, a bit about the concept this fragrance was based on. The Hwarang being a group of poet-warrior nobility from the Silla Dynasty my own male ancestors from my dad's side in South Korea are descended from, I find this fragrance truly special. I wear it in the summer months and feel empowered. Although I am female, I think that in the true spirit of pride month it is wonderful to lean into unique but versatile scents that can be worn by any gender. I really appreciate how James put such a lot of time and effort, as well as care into researching the materials he used for this fragrance. It's a beautiful piece olfactorily, as well as boldly authentic and wonderful in its conceptual artistry. Bravo to the team! ✨

I completely under estimated the power of this scent. I might need to check my other reviews as well, for when I smelled my wrist it was faint, but my partner could tell I was wearing it from a few feet away. It's beautiful, floral, with a hint of sweetness. I was hoping for more marine notes, but the Camelia and Lotus notes are strongest. I do get the hinoki, amber and ginseng, however I don't get any of the metalic, clay, or incense (which is fine by me). Personally, I'm not someone who is big on florals, but given how strong and pretty it is, I would say it's well worth the try.

A softly masculine and oceanic fragrance with dewy florals and a crisp metallic edge. The clay note is a nice touch of something powdery, earthy, and grounding. Does have that typical aftershavey men’s cologne feel to it but this is far more elevated with the unique set of notes. A nice take on soft masculinity as a fragrance.