Capri 19-69 2017

Looking at the song lyrics that include 1969, one might get the impression that it was a long, hot summer (similar to the one that has already begun) - one that encompasses beautiful memories (those were the best days of my life) or one that brought a certain emptiness and confusion, the beginnings of punk (another year with nothing to do). But also Woodstock, the moon landing, freedom, boundlessness, rebellion. For Johan Bergelin, the founder of the brand 19-69, an era of freedom, tolerance, and counterculture.

"Capri" from this rather diverse fragrance journey conveys the image of summer; the accompanying text sheet describes a drive through blooming orange groves, more specifically through the surroundings of Villa Malaparte on Capri, a property on a small, protruding rock in the sea, which is considered the most beautiful house in the world and served as the setting for Jean-Luc Godard's film "Contempt." The small text also refers to the convertible scene from the film, to Brigitte Bardot and the wind in her hair, while out in the sea lies Onassis's yacht, where idleness is indulged and cool drinks are served.

The scent corresponds to this image, although it comes across as light and cheerful, the heaviness that is also shown in the tensions of the couple in the film, as well as the bitterness that is also a trait of this impressive house, is only subtly hinted at in the bitter orange aromas.

A beautiful start with orange blossoms and a hint of almond, well-balanced unisex, in my opinion, and underlaid with dry herbs as I imagine them smelling in such a rocky area by the sea, aromatic and sun-heated. The fragrance radiates lightness, a feeling like a flying scarf in the wind as the convertible rounds the bend, flowing hair, brightness, shimmering sun. A truly beautiful summer scent, light and a bit soothing, connected to the earth and the sky.

The only downside for me is the longevity - at the current temperatures around 30 degrees, it would be ideal, but my skin seems to be thirsty and consumes the beautiful, bright, citrus scents in no time, leaving only a faint trace, and that is too little for me.

I do like the bottle, though; it is beautifully simple and fits well in the hand - the color of the fragrance is wonderfully captured, a deep, rich yellow-orange of ripe oranges and setting sun.

Now I am curious about the other fragrances of this eventful year!