Lost Cause

Lost Cause is one of my favorite Phlur perfumes, and I’m heartbroken it’s being discontinued. From the first spray, it was love at first sniff, bright green, fresh, and citrusy in a way that feels vibrant yet gently damp, like a garden after a soft spring rain. It’s completely unisex, maybe slightly leaning masculine, but truly wearable by anyone. While not overpowering, it has a confident presence that’s noticeable without being offensive. Its real magic, though, is in the dry down: a soft, creamy woodiness that stays green, soothing, and just a little earthy, maybe like milk tea steeped in herbs never sweet but serene. It’s perfect for the office, a quiet spring or summer day, or just feeling at peace in my own skin.

I really like this, mostly because it is a good, solid, easy-to-wear scent. It doesn't have anything about it that's too cloying, and if I'm running late and don't have time to choose something, this is a good default. It's a little green right off the top, but by the time I get to work it dries down to a nice, slightly fruity floral that I would catch little whiffs of over the course of the day. Happy to have it in my collection.

Reminds me of a thrift store where they sell wild-looking outfits. You try one on, and get a whiff of this perfume. For some reason, it says "old clothing" to me. Not necessarily a bad thing. Every week I find different perfumes incredible and wildly disgusting. This week, I'm really feeling Lost Cause. I'm sure in a day or two I'll be repulsed by it.

An amazing aquatic green scent. Not nearly as floral as I would have feared, and super refreshing. It’s like a just-showered scent yet also a just-was-outside-in-the-sun scent.

This is not what I thought it would be. And wow, I like it. Earthy orris is enlivened by bright bergamot, rounded apple and tart rhubarb. Florals dance around juicy citrus notes. Subtly sweet and not at all offensive, vibrant in the most lovely and effortless way. Luminous is the perfect word to describe this happy green fragrance. Without obvious woods, it captures the jive of earthy ground and plants without feeling damp or dirty. And the florals, as obvious as they should be, are supporting players behind the more assertive fruity greens. I barely perceive the florals; either that, or I have no idea what I'm smelling. The grounding orris is assertive. Along with vanilla orchid, it resonates as a warm and cuddly invite. It feels comfortable and relaxing and refreshing. Definitely more intriguing than other PHLUR fragrances I've smelled; though it doesn't strike me as particularly adventurous. Rather, it's safe and reliable. As the brand notes, it does create an airy shimmer. Very tart, sharp and dewy, falling into a whisper of sweet smokiness (hello, orris). Not heavy or cloying. Reminds me vaguely of by/Rosie Jane's Lake; without the spice of lavender or fir needle oil. Instead, woods are traded for orris and sparkling mate. Easily a wear anytime and everywhere fragrance, and less of a cologne or aftershave than I anticipated. It almost perfectly straddles the unisex line.