Faqqua Iris

Truly a lovely cause and perfume. I haven’t had a chance to try many of Rook’s works, I’ve tried two that unfortunately weren’t quite for me. But this perfume is truly inspired. Almost candied violets at the front, balanced by soft, powdery, iris. On a backbone of an almost spicy combination of oakmoss and amber. I’ve tried a few violet and iris based perfumes, to less than great results, so I knew it was a bit of a leap of faith buying this, but I’m happy I did. This is a wonderful fragrance, that lives well up to its noble namesake. Crowe has a unique voice in his perfumes, and I need to try some more when I get the chance! I also think it’s quite a commendable thing for him to put his money where is mouth is, and to potentially risk his footing on social media for being as outspoken as he is. Edit: I have since reviewing this, went back to the two that weren’t as much of my taste at first. And now one is an absolute love, and the other I’d say I appreciate. I’ve also worked my way through the discovery set, and I really would emphasize my last paragraph. He has a very unique voice in perfumery, and I recommend giving work a try. I love quite a few of the ones I’ve tried.

I've been eyeing some full-size Rook Perfumes for a while now, but I put them on hold so that I could contribute to the Faqqua Iris campaign. It was my first blind buy in a while and I wasn't too sure what to expect, but I've always liked how Nadeem does his green notes so I was sure I'd be a fan. Fast forward a few weeks and it's my most reached-for spring fragrance. The violet opening is almost fruity and transitions easily into the powdery iris. The oakmoss and amberwood add balance and a much-needed earthy edge to the sugary florals. I've been enjoying powdery and creamy notes in my green fragrances lately, and this is no exception. Like most of the Rook collection, Faqqua Iris has incredible longevity. I sprayed it once in the morning and it's easily lasted for at least 7-8 hours. It lingers but it's not overwhelming; I can easily wear this to work, on the train, etc. without offending anyone. I'd argue it's one of the more universal Rook scents, a crowd pleaser that still retains its uniqueness and charm. A beautiful tribute and a worthy cause.

One of the first perfumes I ever loved that started me on this journey. I bought it blind because I liked that the proceeds go to Gaza relief, and when I got it I loved it so much I bought a backup bottle. An absolute stunner. Violet, powdery, would like more iris but it’s still lovely. Full-bodied without being heavy. Sweet but the oak moss brings it down a little. I definitely get a petrichor note out of this that isn’t explicitly stated in the description. Like wet stone, or maybe wet grass. To me this is kind of like the coveted Nosferatu from Heretic, but where that one is airy and earthy this is more forward and sweet.

Very beautiful. The violet is more prominent than iris but blended together with the green notes and oakmoss the overall effect is an appeallingly soft sweetness. Oddly, my impression from the tester was that there was a touch of the barbershop about this, but from the bottle there is much more of a cosmetic powder vibe.

This is quite different from any other fragrance I know. The opening is dominated by the iris, and what an individual iris it is too. As that eases down the fragrance becomes deep and complex, and eventually becomes certainly unisex and possibly more masculine. Longevity is well over 8 hours for me.