I unfortunately do not know why Tom Ford has launched a scent that is very similar to Tuscan Leather, why he named it the only fragrance after a collection, and why this scent is supposed to be discontinued by the end of this year (according to the Tom Ford counter lady). I only know that Ombre Leather has its justification for existence. Perhaps I am making it a bit too easy for myself by claiming that those who found Tuscan Leather often too intense, too overwhelming, and too exhausting for everyday wear might find a more everyday version here.
So far, this is how I feel while wearing it! Not that we misunderstand each other, there have been days when I loved Tuscan Leather - mostly in autumn and winter - I always felt extremely elegant "dressed" in it, a bit of nobility, slightly cool distance, with charming arrogance.
Then there were days and weeks when I didn't even want to come close to TL; it was too massive, too dense, too penetrating and consuming was the intoxicating aroma. Tom has quite a few of that sort in his collection. But if one is ready for such a scent, such an aroma complex, it can be quite delightful, both for oneself and for others.
Ombre Leather is indeed the everyday version for me, more the daytime version, even though it is also great to wear in the evening. Raspberry has been thrown out (after 5 comparable scents, I must say "finally"), violet has been included. More Fahrenheit than Steampunk. It has received a minimal floral touch, really just a hint, as well as a mini woody touch.
It could very well be a 2:1 mix of Tuscan Leather and AdP Colonia Leather, with the latter still having a slight edge for me when it comes to leather scents. Everything feels a bit airier and slimmer with Ombre Leather compared to Tuscan Leather, yet I still find it strong and dense enough. Diluted would probably be the wrong term here; the violet simply makes the nose feel less occupied than with the monster raspberry;-)! The leather here is still of the best and softest quality, thickest Walk Nappa without grain, spicy, soft, velvety... wonderful. It definitely appeals to me more, yet I understand the Tuscan fans.
Here, the longevity is really great, easily 7 hours, sillage probably just above office-appropriate... but autumn will ultimately show!
Oh, I just prefer the "Monster Raspberry" :D According to the Ford counter guy in the USA, this one will only disappear from the stores. Good old Tom has made sure there are stock supplies, and the fragrance is still available for order upon request. At least in the States.
I feel the same way; over the last few months, I've been avoiding leather scents, and now - as late summer is gradually coming to an end - I'm craving this type of fragrance again. Right now, I'm actually wearing 3 leather scents at the same time :-) namely Colonia Leather, Tuscan Leather, and Ombré Leather. All three are great, and it would be really hard for me to pick a favorite. However, if someone is looking for a leather scent for the office, I would recommend Colonia Leather.
I have both, and both definitely have their place... I find it a shame that it has to go again, it's so beautiful! Thank goodness I have a decanter of it; I totally fell in love with it back then :)
I finally found my leather scent and now this! :-(((
It was obvious!