As the young heir to a family of architects that specialise in the design of arches, Maître de Claude went around the globe in the pursuit of new ideas and motifs to enrich his family’s heritage. Little did he know of what his future encounter with the world of perfume held for him. Inspired by Maître de Claude’s commitment to pursue his passion for unique scents, L’Arc Parfums distinguishes itself by being the first house of perfume dedicated to the seekers of grace and artistry.
I recently discovered Chrysalide, a unique and intriguing fragrance from their Mémoire Collection. This collection is inspired by the memoir written by Maitre de Claude as he travelled homewards from his world voyage of discovery. Chrysalide (Chrysalis in English) is the name of the vessel in which a caterpillar transforms into a butterfly. It also comes from the ancient Greek word ‘khrusallís’ which also means gold because of the golden reflections from chrysalides.
L’Arc’s exquisite craftsmanship is reflected in its scrupulous attention to detail and this is immediately evident in the design of their elegant bottles. Chrysalide is housed in a stunning gold vessel as if to emulate that golden shimmer of the Chrysalis itself. The smooth Iines of the bottle and its refined shape make it a pleasure to hold which in turn makes it a sophisticated addition to the most discerning fragrance collector.
Chrysalide is a complex fragrance and is like nothing that I have experienced before. Due to the name, I automatically thought that the fragrance would be subdued and cocooning. However, after the initial spray the fragrance immediately sung from the skin, projecting and uplifting array of citrus aromas. Albeit enjoyable, it was an energy that both took me by surprise and caught my attention at the same time. Unlike some vivacious citrus notes, these aren’t as effervescent and fleeting as you would expect. The sweet tartness persists whilst gently allowing the other aromas to ensue; flourishing into a green, woody and earthy tone with a phenomenal underlying spicy and piney nature.
Just like a chrysalis itself, the fragrance develops slowly, opening up to reveal its impressive beauty from within. Its heart transforms into a remarkable and very addictive spicy concoction with the inclusion of Black Pepper, Nutmeg and Clove. Laos Oud delicately interlaces its way through the warm spices, releasing a balsamic smokey sweetness that lingers. An injection of sweet florals balances the scent with the inclusion of the delicate sensual notes of Jasmine and a the cool pronounced notes of Rose. Its heart is both audacious and spirited, a spicy floral that truly blossoms into life.
The fragrance projects from the skin for the longest time, continuing to exude that masterly created spicy composition. As its subsides the base ebbs into a deep, rich and intoxicating scent, so much so that I literally couldn’t stop smelling my skin. The fresh green vetiver that you experience at the beginning of the fragrance softens into a more sultry and earthy nature. A deliciously sweet, smokey and woody aroma emerges which carries on throughout the day. Like a chrysalis itself, this fragrance takes you on a transformational journey, growing and developing on your skin to release an array of remarkably composed notes. This compelling fragrance is a head-turner and one that you would wear to be noticed. From its elegant presentation to the complex set of high-quality ingredients, Chrysalide is one that you won’t regret purchasing.
Fragrance Notes
Top:- Bergamot, Grapefruit, Green Vetiver, Frankincense
Heart: Rose, Jasmin, Nutmeg, Black Pepper, Clove, Laos Oud
Base: Amber, Vetiver, Cedarwood, Guaiac Wood, Patchouli, Musk, Tobacco Leaves
Blu Blazer Guy Rating:
Presentation 4.5/5
Sillage 4/5
Projection 4/5
Longevity 4/5
Fragrance Concentration: Eau de Parfum
£169.00 for 100ml Available exclusively in the UK from Jovoy Mayfair
BLU BLAZER GUY 