Name: Black Gardenia
Brand: Illuminum
Rating: 6.7 (30 reviews)

Tom Ford, a renowned personality in the fashion industry, has been a prominent figure for decades with his creations often gracing the red carpet and the pages of top fashion magazines like "Vogue." His journey into the world of fragrances dates back to the early 1990s.

In 1992, Ford assumed the role of creative director at Gucci, giving him control over the brand's perfume line. He later expanded his influence by taking on a similar role at Yves Saint Laurent in 2000. One of his notable contributions during this time was the creation of "M7," a groundbreaking men's fragrance that popularized the oud note in a more widespread manner.

In 2005, Ford collaborated with Estée Lauder to establish his own brand, Tom Ford Beauty. Under this label, he introduced two fragrance series: the more affordable "Signature" line, starting with the launch of "Black Orchid" in 2006, and the high-end "Private Blend" collection in 2007. The latter has become a favorite among perfume enthusiasts, featuring captivating scents like "Tobacco Vanilla," "Tuscan Leather," and "Oud Wood."

While Ford's fragrance bottles exude simplicity in design, his marketing campaigns are anything but modest. For instance, the debut of "M7" was accompanied by a striking advertisement featuring a fully nude Samuel de Cubber, creating a buzz in the industry.

Tom Ford

Ombré Leather (2018) EDP

Not much elucidation required. A top-notch refined, masculine leather scent with gentle, velvety florals and a captivating aura.

GhostlyGoddess

This perfume brand is known for its distinctive and captivating scents that evoke a sense of luxury and sophistication. Each fragrance is carefully crafted with high-quality ingredients to create a unique and memorable olfactory experience. From floral and fruity to woody and oriental, there is a scent to suit every taste and occasion. Explore the world of this renowned perfume brand and discover a new signature scent that will leave a lasting impression.

Jeroboam

Haŭto

This fragrance is quite artificial and contains a higher proportion of synthetic components rather than natural ones. It exudes a blend of sugary, fruity, flowery, and piquant notes.

BlizzardBlastX

The renowned Spanish fashion label Zara captivates with its modern designs and exceptional customer service. Specializing in fast fashion, Zara offers a wide range of textiles, shoes, and accessories for women, men, and children.

Established in 1975 in A Coruña, Spain, Zara quickly expanded with stores in Portugal, the USA, and later in Germany. Unlike traditional fashion houses, Zara collaborates with researchers to identify global trends and swiftly adapt them to its collections. This swift production process, often taking just a month from design to sale, allows Zara to offer quality products at moderate prices, thanks in part to manufacturing in Europe.

While Zara's success is built on its agility in responding to trends, the brand has faced criticism for labor practices, including reports of poor working conditions and child labor. Additionally, Zara has been accused of unethical practices such as racism, monitoring employees, using carcinogenic materials, and alleged tax evasion.

Zara products are exclusively available in its own stores, department store sections, and online, with over 2,000 outlets in more than 90 countries.

Zara

Morning Sunray in Sevilla

Lush, tangy, golden grass and dried grass, damp from raindrops, with a hint of boozy warmth reminiscent of a blend of fragrant plants. This is the vibrant greeting that beckons me in.

BlitzKrieg

Parfums de Marly is a prestigious French fragrance brand offering a variety of scents that embody unique olfactory experiences and a touch of French sophistication. Founded by Julien Sprecher in 2009, the brand seeks to pay homage to the aromatic 18th century with its exquisite perfumes. During this era, scents played a pivotal role in social interactions, particularly in aristocratic circles and the court of King Louis XV, where only distinctive and natural fragrances were favored. The name "Parfums de Marly" is a nod to the fragrant legacy of the French Château de Marly, symbolizing the essence of the 18th century.

The brand's fragrances are crafted from natural ingredients, resulting in captivating blends such as citrus and pepper in "Galloway", mandarin and wood in "Percival", or fern, vanilla, and almond notes in "Pegasus". 

For women, the Delina series is a popular choice, offering scents like lychee, Turkish rose, rhubarb, lily of the valley, and peony in "Delina" or bergamot, pear, lychee, amber, and bergamot in "Delina Exclusif".

Men can explore a diverse range of scents from "Parfums de Marly" including "Sedley", "Kalan", "Layton", and "Godolphin", catering to a wide range of preferences from masculine to playful to oriental.

Apart from the captivating fragrances sourced from around the world, the brand's signature glass bottles (available in 75 ml or 125 ml) stand out with a consistent design featuring two horses, a beloved symbol by founder Julien Sprecher. The silver or gold caps add an elegant touch, while variations in bottle colors and materials help preserve the fragrance's essence until its first application.

Parfums de Marly

Hamdani

Incredibly repulsive - a blend of smoked salmon, engine lubricant & rawhide. Slightly medicinal as well. Perhaps the most offensive fragrance I've encountered.

PixelWarrior

Shiny leather boots and disinfectant cream. A technician cleanses their grimy hands with honey and sandalwood cleanser.

ViperVenom

The story behind the exclusive fragrances of the brand "Tiziana Terenzi" is truly unique. It all started with Guglielmo Terenzi founding a wax factory in Catalonia in the 1980s, specializing in crafting candles for various occasions with a focus on unrivaled quality and design. His son Evelino Terenzi took the company to new heights by developing safe, food-grade candle wax for handling candles. Paolo and Tiziana Terenzi continued this legacy, infusing their passion for beauty into the brand, ultimately venturing into the opulent world of fragrances.

Today, Tiziana Terenzi offers a range of fragrances in elegantly designed round or square bottles, predominantly in black and gold hues, creating a cohesive and recognizable collection. The scents themselves are diverse, from floral notes of lilac, vanilla, and peach in "Afrodite" to the rich blend of leather, saffron, honey, and lemon in "Chimaera" and the exotic mix of jasmine, orange, amber, and sandalwood in "Spirito Fiorentino."

A standout quality of "Tiziana Terenzi" is that almost all of their 80+ fragrances are unisex, appealing to both men and women with an array of aromas to suit every preference.

Tiziana Terenzi

Orza

Exciting beginning with crisp apple, succulent plum, vibrant raspberry, and creamy coconut. As it unfolds, a bouquet of rose emerges, followed by benzoin, vanilla, and savory ambergris.

BlazeFury

The Sultanate of Oman, located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, was under the rule of Sultan Qaboos bin Said from 1970 to 2020. During his reign, the country transitioned from nomadic traditions to a more modern society with a focus on trade relations with the West. Oman boasts an impressive healthcare system, a stable social safety net, and a comprehensive education policy.

In the early 1980s, Sultan Qaboos decided to revive the tradition of perfume production in Oman, dating back to the 9th century, and establish a signature fragrance for his Sultanate. Thus, Amouage, meaning "wave" in Arabic, was founded in the capital city of Muscat, generously funded by the state treasury.

Renowned French perfumer Guy Robert was enlisted to create the ultimate Omani scent, incorporating local essences such as myrrh, rosewater, and Omani frankincense. The result was the iconic Amouage Gold fragrance.

Amouage fragrances not only provided a sense of national identity for the people of Oman but also served as esteemed representations of the country. Often exchanged as gifts during state visits or found in hotel rooms, these perfumes earned the moniker "The Gift of Kings."

In recent years, Amouage has expanded its reach to the international market, offering a touch of luxury that brings the opulence of Oriental perfumery and the rich heritage of Arabian nights to European consumers. Through this prestigious brand, the essence of Oriental perfume culture has made its way onto global skin and into the hearts of fragrance enthusiasts worldwide.

Amouage

Reflection Woman EDP

Chilled and tangy like a fruit outdoors on a snowy day. Incredibly vibrant in color.

Stark

Fresher and more verdant than flowery to my senses and on my skin, this fragrance appears to be delectable for both ladies and gents. Charming and serene.

NeonNebulaK

Discover the essence of luxury with a captivating fragrance collection that embodies elegance and sophistication. Unveil a world of scents that exude charm and allure, crafted with the finest ingredients in exquisite bottles. Experience the art of perfumery like never before, as each fragrance tells a unique story and leaves a lasting impression. Indulge in the opulence of our signature scents and elevate your senses to a whole new level of refinement. Choose a scent that resonates with your personality and embrace the transformative power of fragrance. Elevate your daily routine with a touch of elegance and let your scent speak volumes about your style and individuality.

Maison Tahité

Cacao²

Yummy! I'm not a huge foodie fan, but I couldn't resist grabbing this right away, especially considering the cost! ($120 USD) Unique gourmet treat that will satisfy a wide range of tastes!

MidnightMage

Experience the essence of luxury with our exquisite line of fragrances. Our perfumes are crafted with the finest ingredients to evoke emotions and memories with every spritz. Elevate your senses and indulge in the art of scent with our captivating collection.

N.C.P.

Olfactive Facet 301 - Jasmine & Sandalwood

Stunning hyperrealistic jasmine blossom fragrance. Intoxicating, vibrant, and clean. Ideal for blending with other scents.

MetalMarauder

Discover a luxurious fragrance line that captivates the senses and embodies elegance and sophistication. Explore a unique collection of scents that evoke charm and allure, crafted with the finest ingredients to create an experience that is truly unforgettable. Experience the essence of luxury and style with our exceptional perfume brand.

Francesca Dell'Oro

Vanille 12:00

Perfect fusion of luscious fruity and indulgent gourmand scents. Light and luscious, not cloying, but vibrant and delectable. Authentically natural, dispelling my initial synthetic concerns.

NeonVortex

Experience the essence of luxury and elegance with our refined collection of fragrances. Indulge in the unique blend of scents crafted to captivate your senses and leave a lasting impression. Embrace the sophistication and allure of our perfume brand, where each bottle holds a masterpiece waiting to be discovered. Elevate your everyday moments with the touch of luxury that only our perfumes can provide.

Sucreabeille

Cersei EDP

Not my cup of tea. Overabundance of thyme.

DuskDragon

Discover the essence of luxury and elegance with our exquisite line of fragrances. Experience the captivating aromas and indulgent scents that will transport you to a world of sophistication and glamour. Elevate your senses with our carefully crafted perfumes that are designed to leave a lasting impression. Embrace the allure of our brand and immerse yourself in a world of beauty and prestige.

Christian Provenzano

Iris d'Orient

A fascinating fragrance that transforms four times as it lingers on the skin. Truly enchanting!

Nabeel Perfumes, a prestigious fragrance house in the United Arab Emirates, has been creating exquisite scents since 1969. Originally established in Yemen and later moving its operations to the UAE in 1990, Nabeel Perfumes has become one of the top perfume manufacturers in the region. Specializing in both oriental and western fragrances, Nabeel offers a wide range of captivating scents that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Experience the essence of luxury and elegance with Nabeel Perfumes.

Nabeel

Dubai - Oud

A softly suede and arid, eastern zesty-woody fragrance, with a hint of fruity and sharp, fiery zesty/wild beginning. Provocative!

StarkStriker

In the world of perfumes and cosmetics, where big brands dominate, Jo Malone stands out as a beacon of exclusivity and excellence. Founded by the entrepreneur Jo Malone, the brand offers a range of luxurious fragrances, shower gels, bath oils, and skincare products that are primarily available in select stores in the USA and the UK, giving them an air of sophistication and rarity.

The brand's journey began with Jo Malone's boutique facial care clinic in Chelsea, which quickly gained a loyal following for its personalized approach to skincare. Inspired by her success, Jo ventured into the world of fragrances, creating unique scents with the help of perfumers in Grasse, France. Her first creation, the "Nutmeg & Ginger" bath oil, marked the beginning of her foray into the world of perfumery.

A pivotal moment came in 1991 with the launch of the iconic "Lime Basil & Mandarin" fragrance, which catapulted Jo Malone to fame and fortune. Known for her innovative concept of "Fragrance Combining," Jo encouraged customers to mix and match scents to create their own personalized perfumes, revolutionizing the industry.

Despite being acquired by Estée Lauder in 1999, Jo Malone remains at the helm of creativity, continuing to innovate and inspire. With a wide range of fragrance lines and products to choose from, customers can customize their scent experience to reflect their individual tastes and preferences.

From the exquisite packaging to the long-lasting formulations, Jo Malone's products exude luxury and sophistication, making each purchase a special and delightful experience. As a pioneer in the world of perfumery, Jo Malone continues to redefine luxury with her timeless creations, ensuring that each customer feels unique and cherished.

Jo Malone London

Pomegranate Noir (Cologne)

The strong scent of "masculine fragrance" overwhelms my senses. A subtle tangy undertone is the only hint of pomegranate I can detect.

ShadowSoulX

Discover a luxurious fragrance collection from a sophisticated perfume brand that exudes elegance and style. Experience the exquisite blend of aromatic notes that evoke memories and emotions, and create a lasting impression wherever you go. Elevate your senses with this captivating range of scents that are designed to make you feel confident and alluring. Unleash the power of fragrance to enhance your mood and leave a lasting impact on those around you.

Malin + Goetz

Dark Rum (Perfume Oil)

The fragrance of milk and plum combines to exude a scent reminiscent of cherimoya, though regrettably, there is a scarcity of rum notes in this blend.

CrimsonClaw

For many years, Montblanc has stood as a symbol of excellence in the luxury market as a leading creator of premium writing instruments. While the brand also offers meticulously crafted wristwatches, leather goods, and jewelry, its primary focus remains on producing exquisite ballpoint pens and fountain pens bearing the iconic Montblanc emblem.

Established in Berlin at the dawn of the 20th century, Montblanc's origins trace back to the visionary August Eberstein, who drew inspiration from fountain pen production in the US and sought to bring this expertise to Germany in 1906. With the support of investors and a series of patented innovations, the foundation was laid for the "Simplo Filler Pen Co. Max Koch," founded in 1907. Initially replicating American designs, the company's exceptional fountain pens quickly gained recognition, leading to collaborations with renowned brands like "Faber-Castell" and "Staedler," eventually paving the way for Montblanc's own distinctive models featuring the iconic star logo, established as a registered trademark in 1913.

Today, Montblanc offers a diverse range of prestigious writing instruments such as the "Meisterstück," the "UNICEF Editions," the "Diva Line," and "Bohème," each showcasing subtle variations in materials, design, and functionality while consistently upholding the brand's renowned standards of quality and durability that endure for generations.

Employing a workforce of over 3,000 individuals, with approximately 30% based at the brand's Hamburg headquarters, Montblanc has been under the ownership of "Alfred Dunhill, Ltd." since 1977, becoming part of the esteemed "Compagnie Financière Richemont SA" family, alongside its esteemed range of writing instruments, timepieces, jewelry, and leather accessories.

Montblanc

Legend EDT

An elegantly unisex fragrance. Bright citrus and herbaceous lavender notes lead the way, eventually giving way to a warm tonka bean aroma after a few hours. Perfect for wearing in a professional setting.

StarStruck

Experience the essence of luxury with fragrances by this renowned perfume house. Indulge in a symphony of exquisite scents crafted with precision and passion. Elevate your senses and embrace the allure of these exceptional perfumes.

Lorenzo Pazzaglia

Extreme Passion

Following a delightfully ripe and luscious tropical fruit-sweet introduction, this aromatic fruity-floral scent for Summer transitions into a velvety resinous-woody foundation.

Experience the essence of luxury with our exquisite collection of fragrances. Immerse yourself in a world of sophisticated scents that captivate the senses. Discover the artistry and elegance of our perfume brand as you indulge in a sensory journey like no other. Elevate your style and make a lasting impression with our signature scents that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Welcome to a realm of impeccable craftsmanship and unparalleled beauty.

Xinú

Copāla | Xinú (no. 2)

Enchanting resin backed by oak and sweet vanilla. There's an air of mystique, enchantment, and intrigue surrounding it. Gratitude to Xinú for gifting us with this precious gem.

SonicFrost

"Simone Andreoli" transcends ordinary perfumery by crafting fragrance creations that evoke scents and tastes from diverse corners of the globe.

In the essence of their brand, their collection serves as a passport to various destinations - from bustling cities to serene landscapes, each scent is a chapter in a captivating travel diary. Through expert curation, these scents transform into narratives that transport wearers on an olfactory journey worldwide.

Distinguished as a niche label, "Simone Andreoli" distinguishes itself by diverging from conventional paths in perfumery. Encouraging customers to explore both the world and their inner selves, their intense and exotic fragrances seduce and captivate.

By combining premium essences with meticulous research, the brand ensures a luxurious and expanding assortment of scents. The exclusive fragrances are accessible on esteemed online platforms and their official website, offering clientele superior quality and a continually evolving palette of fragrances.

Simone Andreoli

L'Or du Sillage

Superb forest-inspired fragrance with bergamot and petitgrain notes taking center stage, excellent projection and remarkable lasting power. Bold, distinctive cologne, strongly endorsed.

BlizzardBoulder

Illuminum

A special edition fragrance created by Illuminum designed for both men and women, launched in 2016. This perfume boasts a blend of woody and spicy notes. Unfortunately, it seems that production of this enchanting aroma has been halted.

White On White

Cardamom is a warm and spicy fragrance note with a unique blend of sweet, citrusy, and aromatic aromas. It adds a sophisticated and exotic touch to perfumes, creating a sense of depth and intrigue in the fragrance.

Cardamom

Dried leaves with a woody, earthy, powerful scent

Patchouli

Cinnamon

Dry woody scent reminiscent of undergrowth

Oakmoss

Clove

Balsamic-scented resin with leathery, tar and slightly floral facets 

Styrax

Coumarin is a sweet, vanilla-like scent with hints of hay and almond. It is often used in perfumery to add warmth and depth to fragrances, providing a comforting and cozy aroma.

Coumarin

An exclusive fragrance from Illuminum designed for both men and women, launched in 2016. Regrettably, production of this perfume has been discontinued.

95 Percent - Yuki

Vetiver

Tangerine

Green tea is a refreshing and invigorating note commonly found in perfumes. It exudes a clean, crisp aroma with hints of herbaceous and citrusy nuances, creating a sense of calm and vitality.

Green tea

Asian flower with fruity hints of apricot

Osmanthus

A rare fragrance created by Illuminum for both men and women, launched in 2016. The scent is no longer in production, making it a coveted item for perfume enthusiasts.

95 Percent - Brunswick House

A resin with a warm scent of amber and leather

Labdanum

Woody scent reminiscent of sharpened pencils

Cedarwood

Gaiac wood is a rich, warm, and slightly smoky note commonly used in perfumery. It adds depth and complexity to fragrances, creating a unique and luxurious scent experience.

Gaiac wood

Variety of fruits with a sparkling fragrance such as lemon, orange and grapefruit

Citrus

A wood much appreciated in the Middle East, with a powerful, slightly leathery scent

An exquisite scent from Illuminum crafted for individuals of all genders, introduced to the market in 2016. Regrettably, it appears that the production of this perfume has been halted.

95 Percent - Tom Wolfe #234

Name of the orange blossom essential oil. Floral scent with citrus accents.

Neroli

Citrus fruit with aromatic and slightly floral facets

Bergamot

Rose-like note with aromatic and citrusy facets

Geranium

A rich combination of vanilla, spices and resins

Amber

Aromatic, woody and resinous odour reminiscent of the forest

Pine

Aniseed and aromatic essence obtained from the seeds of the plant

Fennel

A scarce fragrance crafted by Illuminum for gentlemen, launched in the year 2013. The aroma is described as having smoky and animalic notes. Excellent sillage and lasting power make it standout. Regrettably, it seems that this scent has been discontinued.

Black Amber

Sandalwood

Rich floral scent with jasmine and spicy accents

Ylang-ylang

Powerful spicy note with a slightly animalic facet

Cumin

Gurjum balsam is a resinous, woody note with a sweet, balsamic aroma. It adds depth and warmth to fragrances, often used in oriental and woody compositions.

Gurjum balsam

Cambodian oud is a luxurious and exotic scent derived from agarwood trees native to Cambodia. It is highly valued for its rich, woody aroma with smoky and earthy undertones, adding depth and sophistication to fragrances.

Cambodian oud

Dried fig is a luscious and sweet note that adds a warm and unique character to fragrances. It brings a rich, fruity aroma with subtle hints of earthiness, creating a warm and inviting scent that is both exotic and comforting.

Dried fig

An exclusive fragrance created by Illuminum for gentlemen, launched in 2012. Fusing oriental and woody notes, this alluring scent continues to be crafted and made available to date.

Rosewood

A family of soft sensual and tenacious scents, generally synthetic, slightly reminiscent of animal musk

Musk

Rosa centifolia absolute is a luxurious floral note extracted from the hundred-petal rose, known for its rich, sweet, and elegant aroma in perfumery.

Rosa centifolia absolute

A fragrance created by Illuminum suitable for both women and men, unveiled in 2012. Offering a blend featuring spicy and earthy notes, this perfume is currently available on the market.

White Oud

Coriander

Java vetiver is a unique and earthy fragrance note that comes from the roots of the vetiver grass grown in Indonesia. It has a smoky, woody, and green scent with hints of spice and sweetness, adding depth and complexity to perfumes.

Java vetiver

Laotian oud is a rare and luxurious perfume note with rich and woody tones, offering a deep and exotic scent profile, evoking a sense of mystery and sophistication.

Laotian oud

Illuminum's exclusive fragrance for men, launched in 2011, embodies a captivating blend of spicy and oriental notes. Known for its enduring staying power, this limited-edition scent continues to be a sought-after choice among connoisseurs.

Majestic Oud

White flower with an opulent fragrance that can be fresher thanks to the synthesis

Jasmine

The emblematic flower of perfumes, with more or less powdery, fresh or fruity facets

Rose

Rose absolute is a rich and opulent floral note extracted from rose petals. It exudes a sensual and romantic scent with sweet, velvety undertones that evoke feelings of love and beauty.

Rose absolute

A more or less green or pulpy fruity note 

Indonesian oud is a rich and complex note known for its warm, woody, and spicy scent with hints of smokiness and a touch of sweetness. It adds depth and intensity to a fragrance, creating an exotic and luxurious aroma.

Indonesian oud

A sophisticated scent from Illuminum, suitable for all genders, launched in 2011. This perfume combines spicy and leather accords to create an alluring aroma that remains popular and can still be bought today.

Piper Leather

A more or less animal, soft or smoky scent reminiscent of leather goods

Leather

Black pepper is a spicy and aromatic note often used in perfumery to add warmth and depth to fragrances. It adds a touch of sophistication and zing to any composition, creating a bold and sensual experience.

Black pepper

Frankincense is a warm and resinous scent with balsamic and woody undertones. Often described as exotic and spiritual, it adds depth and complexity to perfumes, creating a sense of calm and reverence.

Frankincense

Pepper

Aromatic scent reminiscent of anise, fennel, liquorice…

Aniseed

Animal ingredient with a feline, dirty scent

Civet

Powdery floral note with fruity and woody facets

Carrot seed

A resinous, spicy, balsamic and smoky smell appreciated for its spiritual virtues

Incense

An alluring scent from Illuminum, suitable for both genders, was introduced in the year 2011. The fragrance combines luscious fruits with soft floral notes, resulting in a mesmerizing aroma. Recent indications suggest that production of this perfume has ceased.

Wild Berry Blossom

Gentle floral note slightly reminiscent of rose

Peony

Blackcurrant

Cyclamen

Virginia cedar is a warm and aromatic note known for its woody, earthy scent. It adds a rich and smooth quality to fragrances, often evoking feelings of strength and sophistication.

Black Gardenia Illuminum

Main Accords

Fragrance Pyramid

Top Notes

Middle Notes

Base Notes

Classification

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