Glowing Jennifer Lopez 2012

From the range of fragrances by Jennifer Lopez, I only know the classic Glow. I have read that Glowing is the evolution of this debut. However, I find Glowing to be completely different. In an interview with Ms. Lopez, she mentions that she likes soapy, clean scents. Glow definitely fits that description: very clean, very bright. And a bit soapy, which I don’t like, so Glow had no chance with me. Glowing is said to be darker; she calls it "new-yorky." Hmm. Well, I can confirm the darker aspect, but being unfamiliar with the metropolis on the Atlantic, I have to pass on the latter adjective.

Right from the start, Glowing is warm, friendly, and spicy. The opening features fruity notes that have an orangey touch; I’m guessing mainly mandarin. It then moves into floral territory with orange blossom and a cinnamon note. The spiciness comes from the cassia flower, which is also known as cinnamon flower due to its scent. This gives the whole fragrance a delicious, spicy-gourmand quality. At times, a slight coconut-like note emerges, making Glowing remind me a bit of Estée Lauder's Sensuous Nude. This phase in the scent's progression lasts for quite a while, after which Glowing transforms into a truly beautiful woodiness that I only know from L'Heure bleue! Glowing never becomes soapy at any point.

In the USA, the fragrance was launched in spring. Now I’m trying to imagine the scent in warmer temperatures and must say that I actually find our current late autumn-winter season more fitting. Whether and when I will wear the fragrance in spring and summer remains to be seen…

Glowing has good longevity and develops a subtle but noticeable sillage. I’m currently wearing it in the reading room and at the office because the scent definitely allows for a friendly coexistence with colleagues and fellow humans. And I can easily imagine it as a unisex model for men who also enjoy gourmand and spicy scents.

I find the name "Glowing" beautiful, but not necessarily very accurate: I don’t really think of something glowing, even though the fragrance definitely radiates something warm.

Regarding the packaging, it should be noted that the 50ml and 75ml bottles briefly light up blue when the spray head is activated (see above). In the perfume store, I held the 50ml bottle in my hand. I find the glowing effect a bit silly, but younger people might like this effect. On the other hand, it might also be practical: during power outages, on camping trips, or even in the stadium at the next concert, one could do without the silly lighter and not burn their fingers. Or it could help guide rescue helicopters in difficult terrain during emergencies.

But let’s set the packaging aside: I definitely like the content of the bottle!