Fleur du Mal Dries Van Noten 2022
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A Floral Masterpiece with an Edge
Dries Van Noten’s Fleur du Mal, crafted by perfumer Quentin Bisch, is a striking example of how contrasts can come together in perfect harmony. Released as part of Van Noten’s understated fragrance collection, this scent highlights the Belgian designer's renowned flair for blending the unexpected, combining soft floral elements with more daring, sensual undertones.
From the moment it touches the skin, Fleur du Mal captivates with its lush, fruity top note of peach, evoking the image of sun-warmed fruit dripping with nectar. The fragrance doesn’t linger long in sweetness, though—it swiftly introduces the star note of osmanthus, a flower known for its duality, with nuances of apricot and leather. This delicate yet almost animalic quality of osmanthus is complemented by creamy jasmine, lending the fragrance a floral elegance that is both soft and sensual.
As the scent evolves, it deepens with a base of suede and amber, grounding the floral heart in something more shadowy and intimate. The juxtaposition of these light and dark notes gives the fragrance a velvety texture, balancing the brightness of the florals with a rich, almost smoky allure. This careful balance between the fresh and the sultry is what makes Fleur du Mal so compelling, providing a sense of mystery and depth often missing in more straightforward floral compositions.
What sets Fleur du Mal apart is its subtlety—despite the opulent ingredients, it remains elegant, never overwhelming. The dry down, which settles into a luxurious floral-leather blend, feels almost vintage in its refinement, yet modern in its execution. It is a scent that commands attention without shouting, sophisticated and undeniably sensual.
Van Noten’s approach to this fragrance collection mirrors his philosophy in fashion: it’s a celebration of contrast and texture, where nothing feels forced. Bisch’s execution is flawless, pushing the boundaries of floral perfumery in a way that feels timeless, yet distinctly forward-thinking.
While Fleur du Mal may not have the immediate blockbuster appeal of some contemporary perfumes, it offers a more intimate experience—an olfactory treasure waiting to be discovered. This understated launch, with limited physical distribution, reinforces its status as a hidden gem within the niche fragrance world. For those who appreciate a well-constructed, multi-layered scent, Fleur du Mal is a rare find, a perfume for the discerning wearer who enjoys subtle opulence.
We can say that Fleur du Mal is a work of olfactory art that seduces quietly but leaves a lasting impression, blending bold contrasts with impeccable grace. A true testament to both Van Noten’s vision and Bisch’s talent, this fragrance proves that the art of perfumery is alive and well in unexpected places.
From the moment it touches the skin, Fleur du Mal captivates with its lush, fruity top note of peach, evoking the image of sun-warmed fruit dripping with nectar. The fragrance doesn’t linger long in sweetness, though—it swiftly introduces the star note of osmanthus, a flower known for its duality, with nuances of apricot and leather. This delicate yet almost animalic quality of osmanthus is complemented by creamy jasmine, lending the fragrance a floral elegance that is both soft and sensual.
As the scent evolves, it deepens with a base of suede and amber, grounding the floral heart in something more shadowy and intimate. The juxtaposition of these light and dark notes gives the fragrance a velvety texture, balancing the brightness of the florals with a rich, almost smoky allure. This careful balance between the fresh and the sultry is what makes Fleur du Mal so compelling, providing a sense of mystery and depth often missing in more straightforward floral compositions.
What sets Fleur du Mal apart is its subtlety—despite the opulent ingredients, it remains elegant, never overwhelming. The dry down, which settles into a luxurious floral-leather blend, feels almost vintage in its refinement, yet modern in its execution. It is a scent that commands attention without shouting, sophisticated and undeniably sensual.
Van Noten’s approach to this fragrance collection mirrors his philosophy in fashion: it’s a celebration of contrast and texture, where nothing feels forced. Bisch’s execution is flawless, pushing the boundaries of floral perfumery in a way that feels timeless, yet distinctly forward-thinking.
While Fleur du Mal may not have the immediate blockbuster appeal of some contemporary perfumes, it offers a more intimate experience—an olfactory treasure waiting to be discovered. This understated launch, with limited physical distribution, reinforces its status as a hidden gem within the niche fragrance world. For those who appreciate a well-constructed, multi-layered scent, Fleur du Mal is a rare find, a perfume for the discerning wearer who enjoys subtle opulence.
We can say that Fleur du Mal is a work of olfactory art that seduces quietly but leaves a lasting impression, blending bold contrasts with impeccable grace. A true testament to both Van Noten’s vision and Bisch’s talent, this fragrance proves that the art of perfumery is alive and well in unexpected places.
Zavy
