Elea, which means "bright, radiant light" and is meant to evoke the northern lights that one can admire in the sky during a trip to the Lofoten in Norway, is by far my favorite from the five-fragrance collection of the Dutch brand Atelier Vesper.
With lightning speed and its very own "soft power" (borrowed from colleague Ergoproxy ;)), Elea has carved its way into my consciousness and spread comfortably within it.
"This light, composed of the key notes of bergamot, sandalwood, and musk, is said to smell fresh, woody, enveloping, and dreamy," and I can only affirm this.
Throughout the fragrance's development, bergamot, my favorite citrus fruit, and grapefruit impart a noble, tart freshness. Sage contributes a delicate bitterness, but never a harsh green spiciness, while the early detectable geranium adds a gentle, soft creaminess.
Next, the woods (guaiac wood, sandalwood, cedar, patchouli) beautifully line up. Especially my beloved cedar creates the incredible feeling of well-being that I experience when wearing Elea. Together with the included pepper, it provides sensual aspects that smell of warm, spicy skin, which I find absolutely enchanting and that give me a sense of being at home and secure. The other woods harmoniously interlock and provide additional aromatic warmth.
In addition to the mentioned geranium, Elea also contains floral notes of magnolia and jasmine. These are of a quieter nature, intricately woven in, and allow the fragrance to shimmer and float without ever becoming dominant or (for me) contributing unnecessary sweetness.
Gentle musk enhances the creamy, sensual, tender facet and perfects Elea. Overall, the character of the fragrance remains consistently loving, soothing, and approachable to my nose.
Elea feels to me like a light-filled cocoon of flexible woods, refreshing and grounding at the same time, or like the firm, warm, soul-brightening embrace of a dearly cherished person. Especially now, at the end of winter, when the longing for light and warmth is particularly strong, this fragrance has the ability to touch me deeply.
Thank you so much! :)) I still like it the best by far among the first 5 scents from the brand. (The two newest ones are still unknown to me) Regarding H/S: scents generally last well on me, and I can smell it for a long time. I'll make sure to pay close attention the next time I wear it.
That sounds so wonderful and cozy. You've really painted beautiful scent pictures, making it feel like you can sense the light and smell the fragrance..
When you let your heart and feelings speak, you get reviews like this... grand and also informative. I can practically smell the fragrance... Thank you for that...
You've written that very charmingly and with feeling, and painted some lovely scent images! The woody facets, in particular, are very inviting to me and make Elea interesting for me as well! A very fine contribution from you!
Well written!
So beautifully entertaining and informative at the same time.
I could almost feel the cozy warmth that this scent brings you.
Great!
Bergamot is also exciting for me.
Regarding H/S: scents generally last well on me, and I can smell it for a long time. I'll make sure to pay close attention the next time I wear it.
(As you describe the interplay of the woods, I can vividly picture the picket fence... ;-)).
A lovely warm
"Weekend hug"
For you
So beautifully entertaining and informative at the same time.
I could almost feel the cozy warmth that this scent brings you.
Great!
Bergamot is also exciting for me.