GeorgeReid
Spray and Pray
Article recommended by Parfumo
3 years ago - 03/24/2022
10 13

Spray and Pray Experiment #0001: Encre Noir + Voyage

Let's talk about the fragrances used in this combination! However, I have to explain how I handled the experiment variables: 

  • I sprayed the fragrances in the order listed. Fragrance #1 goes first, followed by the spray of Fragrance #2.
       
      
  • I sprayed each scent once on two pieces of paper. One is placed in a fridge at 40° F / 4.4°to simulate a cooler environment. The other remains in a heated and humid bathroom temperature of approximately 86° F/ 30° C to simulate a warmer or tropical environment.
     
  • I also sprayed each scent once on a pulse point where the skin is clean and unscented to see how it works on me.  
     

Fragrance #1: Encre Noire

(Image from Parfumo.net)

Encre Noire from Lalique is a fragrance with a primary and powerful vetiver note supported with woody notes that make it earthy. 

On the great side, it is a relaxing and meditative fragrance reminiscent of a forest that has lasting power. 

On the downside, it does not work in some social situations, such as anything with high physical activity, or in the summer heat.

Fragrance #2: Voyage

(Image from Parfumo.net)

Voyage from Nautica has a fantastic opening that is crisp with apple and leaves, then calms down with floral and earthy notes that keep the fragrance fresh through the duration. 

On the great side, Voyage is a universal fragrance usable in any situation. 

The only downside is some movies last longer than a spritz of Voyage and the fragrance notes are borderline undetectable in a colder environment.

The Hypothesis

  1. Encre Noire should blend well with Voyage, as the dominant notes from both fragrances form a trine on the fragrance wheel, which harmonizes with each other.
       
  2. This should create a more interesting fragrance where the vetiver from Encre Noire enhances the properties of Voyage, creating a stronger fresh and aquatic smell.
      
  3. Both fragrances should become usable throughout the year, with the elements of the combination assisting each other to improve performance issues, but I expect it will work the best during the moderate weather of the spring.
     

The Result

  • The vetiver from Encre Noire enhanced the notes from Voyage, but exceeded expectations; the opening is an aquatic and fresh scent that lasted for over an hour.
     
  • Afterward, the fragrances blend fresh and earthy undertones, keeping the relaxing effects of Encre Noire’s vetiver while maintaining a masculine vibe. 
     
  • The fragrance combination lasted about seven hours. The longevity for Voyage doubled, while remnant notes for Encre Noire linger afterward.
     
     
  • The sillage and projection remain within walking distance. It will not get attention as you enter a room. That said, it can turn heads, and your date or significant other will love the scent if he/she/they are into aquatic or earthy notes.
     
  • The layering also negated each fragrance’s glaring weakness.
     
    • Encre Noire gains versatility as a fragrance (although I still do not recommend it as a gym fragrance) while maintaining the calming effect in a warmer climate that does not become cloying. 
       
    • Nautica Voyage lasts for a longer duration and performs significantly better in cooler weather.
       
  • The scent may stand out in the crowd as a new fragrance, but it is describable as a flanker instead of anything original. A name like Encre Noire Océan, or Nautica Voyage: Waterfall could fit.
     

Overall: Success! 😁

The fragrance is an excellent fusion! I will recommend here on Parfumo to use this combination if both fragrances are in your possession.

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Edited on 03/26/2022 to add fragrance links.  
Edited again on 03/29/2022 for minor improvements.

Last updated 03/29/2022 - 05:07 AM
10 Comments
GeorgeReidGeorgeReid 3 years ago
@Mtg15 -- Never bought or tried Encre Noire Sport, but it would not surprise me if the scent was comparable.
Mtg15Mtg15 3 years ago
I really enjoyed this format i hope you do more. Out of curiosity have you tried encre noir sport if so was this layering comparable in anyway.
GeorgeReidGeorgeReid 3 years ago
Everyone, thank you for the kind words! More combinations and stories are coming soon!
JnsnJnsn 3 years ago
brilliant! who would've thought. great insightful read. those 2 frags are nothing alike, yet you found success layering. you know we all want more reads like this from now on though, right?
Topfpflanze3Topfpflanze3 3 years ago
I am very sceptical regarding layering... but damn this fits just so nicely who would have thought!
ExUserExUser 3 years ago
Hi George.
I usually don't have much success with layering, and hardly recommend it.
I would never think about mixing 2 fragrances so dissimilar as those two you have used.
Congrats for your initiative, congrats on your success and, above all, congrats for the inventive and charming way you shared it with us.
ElysiumElysium 3 years ago
Hi there GeorgeReid, what a great experiment you dared! I've got both, so I will definitely try it. FYI, I used Encre Noir on a June evening, and it was a success, a compliment grabber. I've got the three of them, The Extreme for cold weather, the OG for the middle seasons, and the Sport for hot weather. Unfortunately, the recent formulation of the OG is diluted and it lasts shorter, still, the smell remained the same. I am looking forward to reading your next layering. Keep in touch,
Elysium
P.S. I suggest you put a # in front of mentioned colognes, that way Parfumo will replace them with a link to the related page, e.g. #encre noir (well, it does not work comment, but I swear it works in review, statement, and blog!)
StaticStatic 3 years ago
Enjoyed your experience !! Thank you.
My “layer” perfume has always been Montale White musk.
Looking forward to your next journey 🙏🏾
OrandaveOrandave 3 years ago
Sounds good... I'm looking forward to your next experiment! 👏😃
ExUserExUser 3 years ago
Layering is a great tool. I always thought Voyage would be so better with bit of darkness, glad you tried it. Thanks for sharing with the community.
Cheers!