Massimo Dutti Massimo Dutti 1988 Eau de Toilette

Thanks to a fortunate turn of events, I received a fairly full 200 ml bottle of Massimo Dutti Eau de Toilette a few days ago. My first encounters with the brand were back in 2007 during a trip to Portugal. In Lisbon, I discovered a huge Massimo Dutti store with textiles and fragrances. Although I didn’t buy anything, the label has somehow been likable to me ever since. A few years ago, a Massimo Dutti boutique even opened in my hometown - a reason to engage more with the brand and especially its fragrances. I submitted a few of them quite dutifully to Parfumo.

But only now, with the Massimo Dutti EdT in my possession, am I able to conduct an extensive test, and I am essentially delighted.

The scent starts off with a restrained citrus-spicy note, featuring a slightly lavender-like sharpness. This is essentially nothing special, but it comes across quite naturally. The nutmeg adds a welcome warmth, while the hint of cinnamon brings a touch of refinement. Oakmoss and patchouli crown the Eau de Toilette with a pleasant, somewhat fougère finish. However, not much more happens. One could also say that what does happen quickly becomes passé.

This is extremely unfortunate, as Massimo Dutti EdT is excellently crafted, quite classic, and ideally suited for the office environment. Not too overpowering to annoy colleagues or to draw unpleasant attention from the boss, but subtly sensual enough to charm female coworkers. And perhaps the flirt factor would be even greater if the scent didn’t present itself as so short-lived and close to the skin.

Regardless - Massimo Dutti EdT is a fine fragrance for many occasions. And in a stronger concentration, it would be a hit!