Once Upon a Time in America - The Roaring Twenties (But what does Leo DiCaprio have to do with it?)
AMERICA 1920, the First World War is over, the economy is booming, and the American population is more eager to spend than ever before. The automotive sector is growing, hardly anyone is without a job, which naturally increases spending on consumer goods. The "American Dream" - from rags to riches - is for many people not just a dream, but an emerging reality.
GRAVEL has captured this America of the 1920s, preserved in a perfection that is unmatched. It should be noted that the perfume does not smell like a dishwasher, but clearly embodies the pinnacle of success up the career ladder. It smells of success, glamour, and glory, hot cars, easy women, cigar rooms, and stacks of dollars. I would like to pull a cinematic comparison from my pocket: no one could wear this scent better than Leonardo DiCaprio in "Wolf of Wall Street"!
BUT about the scent itself. I find it to be the American counterpart to the fragrances from Penhaligon's, particularly "The Tragedy of Lord George" comes to mind. While they do not smell identical, they share that typical barbershop note - as has already been mentioned! This one, however, is definitely finer, rounder, and more flattering. Although I must say that I cannot align myself with the aforementioned fragrance direction. I hardly perceive it as floral-citrusy at any point. For me, it leans more towards a woody-creamy/bummy-creamy direction. Those expecting citrus will be disappointed. Consequently, it comes across quite creamy and soapy and lays gently on the skin. The development is relatively straightforward, only towards the end does it become softer and gentler. Lavender and vetiver form a wonderful scent pair and are well-balanced in composition. The longevity of American Dream is about 6-8 hours, and the sillage is perceptible for about 3 hours before it gradually fades. The bottle is top-notch, as it actually contains small stones that make it appear valuable and elegant. Overall, it somewhat resembles hotel hand soap from the early 20th century.
SO, anyone looking for a great autumn fragrance and who has enjoyed Penhaligon's will find this one. You get a soapy-creamy scent composition of the highest class with solid performance. Moreover, it is suitable for those who like to wear a shirt; it does not quite fit the casual look. I would also envision it on a man aged 40+, even though I am rather young myself. But that is for everyone to decide. Lastly, a word about the price: at 150 euros for 100ml, it is perfectly reasonable, especially considering its English brother ;)
Norleans 5 years ago