No. 28

This is a very difficult fragrance to review, as it creatively utilizes a number of ingredients one does not usually associate with perfume. Putting all that aside, if one is to open up their mind and senses to this olfactory journey I believe most will be pleasantly surprised. Using Greek goddess Athena for inspiration, Cecile Hua has attempted to conjure up a scent which balances the gentle traits of a woman, alongside the inner strength and endurance all women encompass. Pear and iris notes blend nicely in the opening. This combined with a lactonic milk note create the "feminine" side of the fragrance, imbuing a soft gentleness which is quite comforting. The other half of this fragrance dichotomy are the "masculine" notes. Here gunpowder is utilized, which is initially a little strange. It bears a metallic and flinty vibe, almost mineral like. I must admit at first it was a little off putting. Leather and incense smoke are blended in as well, helping to suggest a warrior of types. Subtle fleur de sel note reminded me of the smell of salty sweat which is left on ones skin in the heat of summer. Although a departure from the norm when it comes to what one expects perfumes or colognes to smell like, No. 28 is a definite original creation on behalf of Le Cherche Midi. (134)

Slightly sour milk and salty skin vibe... This is a brilliant one. Unique.

No. 28 is like a trip to the seashore. It has a very marine-like quality without seeming like every other "aquatic" you've ever smelled. The gunpowder note adds a little acridity, but not unpleasantly so. I don't get the milk note and the leather is barely perceptible but it really makes this unique. It would be equally fetching on a man or woman. Try this if you love the sea!