Ishraq

Scent Breakdown

Ishraq opens with a tart burst; the kumquat is prominent, like biting into the candied peel, alongside a spritz of lime zest. It's less bright, less effervescent than the Xerjoff it emulates, but still pleasant. The heart leans heavily into the powdery iris, but it carries a synthetic dustiness, like old makeup left too long in a drawer. The lilac and violet are timid, almost ghosts. The drydown is where it deviates most; a malt note emerges, clashing slightly with the vanilla, creating a Play-Doh accord. The ambrette is present but weak, adding a faint, musky sweetness. It lacks the creamy, almost lactonic quality of Dama Bianca.

Final Thoughts

If Ishraq were a movie character, it would be the well-meaning but slightly awkward best friend in a rom-com. It tries hard to be sophisticated but ends up a bit clumsy and endearing.

Projection Power

On my skin, Ishraq lasts a solid six hours. The projection is moderate for the first hour, extending about an arm's length. After that, it settles closer to the skin, becoming a more intimate scent. I wore this to a casual brunch and found it appropriate, but its sweetness might be overwhelming in warmer weather.