Forêt Olo

Olo is a tiny American company whose fragrances are designed, blended, bottled, and shipped almost single-handedly by perfumer Heather Sielaff.

The fragrances are roll-ons that consist of 85% oil. The fragrance component is mostly made up of natural substances. Synthetic fragrance materials are also used, but only very sparingly.

Heather Sielaff once claimed in a blog that she is "not a girly girl" and her fragrances reflect this, which I find very appealing. Regarding "Fôret," she said, "Fôret represents all the forest I have ever taken a walk through."

And "Fôret" is indeed thoroughly forest-like, not just superficially, but from beginning to end, and in the most beautiful way. "Fôret" is earthy, mossy, green (not like delicate green leaves, but dark green like evergreen conifers). Above all, it is very woody; in addition to the mentioned cedarwood, there are likely other types of wood used that together create a dreamy woodiness. There is also a fine spiciness that becomes stronger over time, adding some liveliness or "pep" to the simple and calming, almost meditative, dark green speckled woodiness. I also perceive the peculiar green fruitiness of juniper berries. "A touch of ambergris" is said to be included as well; this hint of amber is likely also - alongside the very present vetiver with its slightly sweet earthiness - responsible for the subtle warmth that never takes center stage and never threatens to overwhelm.

"Fôret" has a certain simplicity, but it is just right as it is, because it is beautiful, quiet, majestic, perhaps a bit dark, but no one needs to fear. I love to walk in this forest; I feel right at home there.

I find the longevity and sillage to be good to very good. The only negative aspect of Olo is clearly, besides the difficulty of even getting hold of the fragrances, the price. £65 for 9 ml is quite a steep price, but ultimately "Fôret" is worth every penny to me.

Olo has some other fragrances that sound very promising; always these temptations…