Hologram

Smells like violet candy to me! I felt ambivalent between like and love during the first 15-20, but as per usual with this house, the opening is distinct from the general wear, and I do love this. Not especially strong sillage, but not weak either. The projection is a bit more than arm-length, and the lasting power is there. I put this on probably around 6 o'clock or so last night and technically I can still smell it on my arms at 8:30 this morning, but it's too mild to really count. Solid 8-10 hours of wear at least though. Something I like about this perfume (which has been a bit a trend for me with NM fragrances) is that it takes something I generally don't like-- in this case, seaweed-- and somehow makes it work and actually add to the fragrance in a positive way. I can't do fishy and seaweed smells, used to struggle with even nori in seaweed (occasionally still do!), but I get these hints of nori during the first few hours of wear and it's a weird experience because it actually works. It does, it balances it, and it's nice. After a while, my nose couldn't pick it up anymore, but I still really liked the smell. I'm reminded a bit of those C Howard Violet candies that I love, except this is fruity and nuanced. The citrus really works for it, too. I feel that this is an elegant fragrance that skews a bit traditionally feminine but I could see it as a solid enby scent or something for an especially stylish and dapper gent. I don't know, it's giving classic gothic novel vibes. It wants lace and afternoon tea on an overcast day. Am I in my bedroom, or in a dim parlor that's mildly haunted, but the ghosts are decent, quiet company? That said, it's thankfully a bit sweet and has a lot of depth, especially once it warms up on skin. I haven't tried it on fabric, but I would sooner guess that it would feel flat without warmth and skin oils, due to the temperament of the violet and the inclusion of seaweed. I wouldn't label this as a full bottle blind buy for everyone, but if it's just the seaweed holding you back, I think it's safe to try it anyway. The samples are pretty generous too. Lastly, hm, this is probably best for fall or late summer, which-- I don't think I've encountered and genuinely violet scent that feels summer-friendly before this one. The citrus and the seaweed, the sweetness, they make it work. It doesn't actually feel beachy to me, or smell like sunshine, but it could actually take some heat. I think I like this best for days and late summer through mid-fall, but you could wear it anytime, I think. Nice for bed as well.