Stories No. 01

I came across this new fragrance brand when researching Irish-based perfumes, and ordered samples of both 01 and 02. The citrusy opening of 01 is fresh and mossy, with earthy bergamot as the dominant note. There is a subtle hint of radiant grapefruit, which lifts the bergamot nicely. Thanks to my teenage perfume of choice, Tommy Girl, I love a tea note, and here it serves as a radiant, clean counterpart to the moody bergamot. Vetiver adds a mossy quality, complementing the bergamot nicely. There is a hint of fig in the opening too, not too sweet and very natural. After the initial burst of citrus, white floral accords come to the fore – notably orange blossom and a hint of jasmine. I can almost smell pollen. The florals smell natural, almost tangible – I am transported to the Irish countryside in early summer. The drydown is woody and powdery with a hint of amber. Seemingly lighter than an EDP, the longevity is weak-to-moderate, barely detectable after three hours. Sillage is moderate. Despite the floral accords, this is a unisex scent. Overall, this is a pleasant, multifaceted daytime scent, ideal for summer. Sophisticated and subtle, well-crafted with high quality ingredients. Bonus points for living up to its “Stories” name and evoking memories for me. 3.5/5.

I'm forever on the search for new fragrance and bought a tester set of the Stories by Eliza Grace fragrances (No1 and No2). No1 was the one that made my husband instantly declare that I smelled really good! The initial hit is quite strong bergamot with weaker citrus notes and I confess I was not instantly taken with it. However, it dries down fairly quickly to a warm cream amber and vetiver (I confess I have a weakness for vetiver so this is a plus for me). Overall, however, I'm not sure it is particularly distinctive or different enough for me to be completely sold on it.

I still prefer No.2 over this. This one is faint and aquatic as the citrus intro fades out quickly and leaves a subtle metallic base of a reflection in water.

Citrusy and sharp, but nothing extraordinary. Definitely suitable as a casual, unisex wear. I found the longevity disappointingly poor, as it only lasted 15 mins on my skin...

Horrible. Not much more to say. I ordered a sample of the No1 and No2 and both are awful. They smell very alcoholic and strong but not in a nice way.