Tom Ford Black Orchid Parfum ‘Lalique’ Limited Edition (Click photo to enlarge).
There is always something, a moment in time, that sets us off on a different trajectory in life. That first kiss, first touch, first taste of the luxe… For me, the first whiff that set me on the path towards haute fragrances was Christian Dior Jules. Addicted to this scent, occasionally you come across something new. Up until then I had enjoyed a few good perfumes, but they were mostly ‘mass’ market labels, Then I discovered Tom Ford Black Orchid. And as Tom Ford put it, it was decades of minimalism up until that point.
Tom Ford Black Orchid Parfum ‘Lalique’ Limited Edition (Click photo to enlarge).
For his very first debut fragrance release, Tom Ford envisioned a bold, sultry scent. It starts out with a big bang, seductive patchouli and earthy black truffle shot through with sparkling bergamot, mandarin and citrus. Once you clear your head of the citrus, a heady bouquet of plumy florals shine through. Ylang ylang, French jasmine, black gardenia and that rare “Tom Ford Black Orchid”. The latter was supposedly specially cultivated just for Mr Ford’s olfactory pleasures, although I think it is the idea of a rarefied black orchid rather than actual distillation of juice that has given birth to this outstanding fragrance.
The first few times I tried wearing Black Orchid I noticed it’s longevity of wear. You need to know how to use, and got the dosage right (just a single short spray, from a 30cm distance) so you can enjoy the fragrance. It’s vèry important otherwise you would think that it’s such a heavy fragrance and that you invariably end up with ‘a headache’. It’s made in the old tradition, so use it as in the old tradition!
This is not about an ordinary orchid, it’s about something a little more strange and rare. I wanted the blackest orchid, and those aren’t easy to find
Tom Ford
After the initial burst, Black Orchid settles down into a warmer, slightly less obnoxious scent with some creamy vanilla notes tampered by spicy sandalwood, incense and warm amber. There are some who prefer the initial heady sensation of the scent, but for me, I actually really enjoy the long drydown. It is much less acrid on the nose, yet stays very true to the character of Black Orchid.
Black Orchid is opulent, classically dark; its fragrance is in line with the best creations of the best perfume houses. Luxurious and sensual fragrance with rich dark trace of black orchid and spices, modern and timeless. It remains to be said that Black Orchid is long lasting and with wide spread aura. It is also one off the longest-lasting fragrance I have worn, remaining consistent and only fading gently as the day extends out into the night.
Tom Ford Black Orchid Parfum ‘Lalique’ Limited Edition (Click photo to enlarge).
What a deep scent this beauty is. Dark and mysterious. beautiful & sexy scent. I’m slightly embarrassed to say, but I love it! Embarressed because some of you would say it’s ‘a female’ fragrance, but I regard it as a unisex scent. Longevity and sillage are awesome. It is, it is by no means a new fragrance. Tom Ford Black Orchid has been in existence since 2006 and was created by perfume creators of fragrance company Givaudan. It is as impactful today as it was back then. And as it gets cooler and we head into the party season, I find myself reaching for Black Orchid more and often. For sure, I have no illusions of being able that it does the same thing to me as how Tom Ford wears his clothing, but regardless, Black Orchid has become the scent with which I hope to make an impression (lol). Just like how you all have the red lipstick or the little black dress that you turn to in times of need. Whether you end up falling in love or hating it, Tom Ford Black Orchid forces you to look up and take notice. And whether worn on male or female, it will eventually seduce you and lure you in….
- Topnote: French jasmine, black truffle, ylang-ylang, black currant and effervescent citrus, bergamote, mandarine
- Heartnote: Lotus, Black Orchid, Lotus, Gardenia
- Basenote: Patchouli, sandelwood,dark chocolate, incense, amber, vetiver, vanilla and balsam
I Love Tom Ford. I love Lalique, I love Art Deco and I love black! Can you imagen how happy I am with this handmade limited edition Lalique black crystal bottle…. ?… No, I don’t open it. It’s to precious!
The perfume is luxurious and the product range includes Eau de Parfum in 50ml (at US$90) and 100ml (at US$135) bottles, and limited edition of 5.000, 15ml handmade Lalique bottles of Parfum at US$600. The distribution is vèry limited.
by Jean Amr
Yakymour 