Portrait d'Une Dame

First Impressions & Dry Down

Aroma West's "Portrait d'Une Dame" imitation opens with a distinct, almost medicinal blast. The advertised pink pepper manifests as a cherry cough syrup accord, battling for dominance with a sharp, synthetic raspberry note. The black currant struggles to surface, buried beneath the initial syrupy onslaught. The heart attempts to salvage the situation with a velvety Turkish rose, but the clove and cinnamon lean heavily into potpourri territory, evoking images of dusty antique shops. The drydown shifts into a gentler incense, a whisper of sandalwood, and a comforting benzoin that pulls the composition back from complete disaster. However, a lingering plasticky undertone remains, a subtle reminder of its synthetic origins. It's a recognizable nod to its inspiration, yet it diverges significantly, particularly in the opening and mid-section where the materials feel less refined.

Conclusion

This fragrance is best suited for fall and winter evenings. It's an intriguing choice for a night out, specifically when one is going for a more assertive, confident aesthetic. This is a scent for the woman who enjoys commanding attention, but perhaps with a touch more calculated mystery than raw power.

Projection Power

Longevity is impressive, clinging to the skin for a solid 7 hours. Projection is moderate, extending about an arm's length for the first two hours before settling closer to the body. I tested this in a variety of situations, from casual outings to a formal dinner. It performed best in cooler environments, as the sweetness amplified unpleasantly in warmer settings.