Okarina

What right do I actually have to write anything about Mitsouko? Is there a perfume blog or book where everything (and more) has not already been said? And probably by more educated noses, better writers, and more intellectual thinkers. And yet, I want to express my love for this fragrance and add my words to the many.

Mitsouko was the first classic fragrance that I consciously discovered for myself. And it was almost forced: after hearing and reading a lot about it, I decided one sunny day to acquire a bottle. I was determined to add this classic to my collection. It was somewhat banal - I had many Payback points and was just at Kaufhof with the voucher. In order to treat myself to two treasures, I chose the EDT, as it was a bit cheaper. I had also sprayed it on a test strip and was skeptical. But it was, so to speak, a gift.

The fragrance did not reveal itself to me immediately. It was not love at first, second, or even third sniff. But I kept returning to Mitsouko. There was something about it that fascinated and captivated me. Some things in life need to be looked at more closely in order to be understood. Engaging with the matter deepens understanding, sharpens perception, and offers new perspectives that accompany you on your life journey. That was how it was for me with Mitsouko.

The scent embodies summer - and I think the label captures it quite well. Still, it's not for me.

After the beautiful opening, a sweetness takes over that doesn't find any balance. It smells elegant and probably of that prickly pear. I recognize the contribution that iris makes here, without (unfortunately - because I love iris) ever stepping into the foreground. After a while, you get this fragrant impression of warm skin in the sun, perhaps after swimming in a freshwater lake. It becomes creamy and sweet and even sweeter. But something is missing that counters the sticky sweetness. I would have wished for something green or bitter to go along with it. Just as I would wish for shade and cool water on a hot summer day.

The name had put me off: Fougères are not for me! But this Fougere is different. The wonderfully creamy tuberose is present from the very start. It is well controlled by the spicy and herbaceous notes that surround it. As the fragrance develops, the tuberose becomes more prominent. The herbaceous accents make way for the creamy tuberose without ever completely disappearing.

Uncomplicated, very fresh upon spraying and then it becomes soapy. I like soapy - so no problem there. The mint and green freshness are very well done here. The concept of the cologne without citrus works. Great for hot days when I long for coolness, freshness, and the feeling of just coming out of the water or shower. Of the many scents from this house, the three colonias (basilico, hoterla, and tomilho) have impressed me the most so far and are used on mild summer evenings.

Smells like jasmine blossoms in a pot standing in the blazing sun after a tropical summer rain. I smell the flower, the green of the branches and leaves, the wet earth, and the warmth radiating from the clay pot. The indoles do not hide, but they are also not intrusive - just like in nature. As soon as they bloom, they start to fade. That’s why the scent is very photorealistic and linear. I find it beautiful!

But like all soliflore jasmine scents, it’s simply not for my skin. However, anyone who loves jasmine should definitely try it. I also find the mimosa and lavender scents from the same line equally recommendable. (The rose in the line didn’t appeal to me).