Island Rose

When I talk about Lili Bermuda's fragrances, I often find myself spending a lot of time talking about the decisions the perfumer made in omitting certain materials or accords, which in my opinion, is what makes her fragrances so exceptional. Everything feels well-balanced, intentional, even her gourmands are judiciously proportioned. Her Island Rose is a perfect example of this sensibility- it is masterfully calibrated and uncluttered. Rose can go sharp/green/acidic/astringent/soapy on me, but this one does not. It accomplishes this without feeling like it has been macerated into obsolescence by jammy fruits or woody aroma chemical fixatives. No, the rose here is unquestionably the focus- a natural smelling rose, and a hint of fruitiness or woodiness are all in service of highlighting the rose's authentic qualities. I would call it sparkling but not sheer like peony, more velvety or medium-weight. It's fresh with a hint of sweetness, but I wouldn't call it a fruity floral, more of a true floral. The sandalwood base remains rosy and feels soft and natural. There is no Chloe-like soapiness or sharpness- Island Rose is smooth and elegant, never heavy. Not a mature-smelling scent but it is refined in personality. It smells expensive. It is no wonder that it's the official fragrance of one of the most famous luxury resorts on Bermuda: the Hamilton Princess.