Leonie

The Verdict

The ideal wearer is someone unbothered by a prominent, slightly shrill, initial impression and who prefers a simple, powdery vanilla drydown. Someone who frequents casual settings, perhaps a relaxed brunch or a quick coffee run. It might suit an individual who favors a bolder, less nuanced fragrance profile.

How it Smells

Leonie opens with an aggressively bright Mandarin Orange, almost candied. The Lavender here presents as a cleaning product accord, a sharp herbaceous note reminiscent of industrial soap. The Black Currant adds a syrupy sweetness, veering into artificial grape territory, not fresh or tart. The heart attempts a more delicate floral balance with Orange Blossom and Jasmine, but the Lavender persists, creating a jarring clash between the sweet and the astringent. It lacks the creamy smoothness. In the drydown, the Madagascar Vanilla is prominent, but also synthetic. It melds with the Musk to create a powdery effect, overshadowing the Cedar, which is barely detectable. The Cedar is more of a suggestion than a clear note. Where the inspiration possesses sophisticated blending, this iteration displays a rougher, more linear trajectory with some discordancy.

The Performance Stats

Longevity is moderate, lasting approximately 5 hours on skin. Projection is initially strong, extending about one arm length, before quickly settling closer to the body after the first hour. Tested in a climate-controlled office setting. Respraying does little to recapture the initial burst; it amplifies the synthetic vanilla.