Very Velvet Noir

Scent Breakdown

Very Velvet Noir opens with a candied plum, lacking the depth and almost fermented quality of a true black plum. The initial impression is reminiscent of plum hard candy, bordering on artificial grape flavoring. The apple in the heart emerges quickly, a tart Granny Smith essence with a noticeable chemical tang that deviates significantly from the intended Very Sexy Night profile. It's a flat, unidimensional apple, lacking the crisp juiciness of the real thing. The base attempts to ground the sweetness with dark woods, but falls short, presenting instead as a generic cedarwood accord with a synthetic amber undertone. The drydown has a plasticky edge, a common issue with cheaper aromachemicals, rendering the woods more akin to wood-scented air freshener than a refined base. The similarity to its inspiration is superficial at best.

Projection Power

Longevity is moderate, projecting for approximately 3 hours with a noticeable sillage that extends about one arm's length. It then settles into a skin scent for an additional 2-3 hours. Testing in humid, warm conditions revealed the scent became cloying and the synthetic notes amplified unpleasantly.

Is it Worth It?

This fragrance is best suited for cooler evenings, perhaps a casual date night, though its synthetic character may become tiresome with prolonged wear. It leans towards a fall or winter fragrance, but its sweetness may be overwhelming in enclosed spaces. The overt sweetness makes it more appropriate for an evening out.