I admit, I blind bought this fragrance along with a hair perfume. I actually didn't want to do that anymore... I once saw Ilio in a perfumery, but unfortunately didn't smell it. After that, I researched it and somehow the description stuck with me.
I don't know cactus pear in nature. But the description of its scent sounded heavenly for summer to me. Fresh and lightly fruity, but not sweet. Some here described it as watery. And that's exactly how I perceive it - watery-fresh, lightly fruity, and somehow special. I was a bit skeptical because some had described the scent here as somewhat overpowering over time. Since my skin chemistry usually works well with jasmine, I wasn't deterred by that.
When Ilio finally arrived and I sprayed it for the first time, I thankfully thought right away, "ah, how beautiful it is" and was thrilled. It opens really beautifully for me - fresh, lightly fruity, and just as cactus pear is supposed to smell. Over time, jasmine comes through a bit stronger, and it becomes a little more floral and sweeter. However, it never loses its freshness and lightness for me, and I find that iris balances it perfectly with a slightly cool powderiness. I also keep noticing the lovely cactus pear.
Sprayed on clothes and in combination with the hair perfume, it lasts a good 6-7 hours on me. I find that completely acceptable for a fresh scent.
I am very happy to have Ilio in my collection now. For me, it is a wonderful and special summer fragrance that lifts my spirits and makes me feel elegant in a way. A big recommendation from me!
