As a fragrance collector, I am always on the lookout for unusual and unique brands, therefore if it catches my eye, I have to immediately experience it. This is what recently happened when I came across Kajal Perfumes Paris. Founded by Moe Khalaf in 2014, the brand has grown from strength to strength and is now available in over 38 countries around the world. The brand’s inspiration comes from the beauty world; Kajal meaning kohl in Indian Culture. Kajal also draws inspiration from the Arabic word Khajal (the shy modesty of a person) and this Arabic influence is evident throughout the collection.
There are currently three collections in the range including: The Classic collection, The Fiddah Collection and The Warde Collection. The Classic collection was the first to be released, The Fiddah (Silver) Collection features five scents embodying different moods and personas and The Warde Collection is composed of four different flower-themed fragrances. A new edition of their original Kajal Homme was recently released in the form of Kajal Homme II, and I was lucky enough to get my hands on it.
Created in collaboration with Spanish master perfumer Rosendo Mateu, an intricate weave of Spanish influences runs through the fragrances DNA. Kajal Homme II takes its inspiration from the stunning Alhambra Palace which towers over the beautiful city of Granada in Spain. I have visited this site on many times and I can honestly say that it’s one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture I have set eyes on. The medieval palace built by the Nasrid Dynasty is embellished with Arabic influences, including intricate geometric designs.
The palace is also known as the Red Fort due to the copper-like hue it exudes, this alongside Islamic inspired geometric design is a huge influence on the presentation of Kajal Homme II. The bottle (and I a not embarrassed to say it) was the first thing that attracted me to this fragrance. It’s bold yet delicate design exudes refinement and elegance whilst remaining contemporary. Housed in an impressive copper vessel with a geometric design and star-shaped lid, it’s most definitely a bottle that you won’t forget.
It was what was in the bottle which surprised me as it was quite different to anything that I have smelt before. From the outset, you are greeted with an impressive combination of uplifting aromas that are vibrant but not too overpowering. The hesperidic notes of Bergamot, Mandarin and Lemon provide fresh and citrusy energy, grounded with the introduction of the green notes and orange blossom. This combination still maintains a crisp fresh background whilst a subtle soapiness ensues. The amber manages to encapsulate this sprightly beginning and turn it into the most pleasant and elegant opening.
The fragrance transforms, taking on an exquisite aromatic fougère nuance, one which is contemporary and doesn’t exude those typical old fashioned and overbearing herbal qualities. What impresses me here is the inclusion of Peach along with Cinnamon and Clove spices, it takes me back to the spiced peach cobbler that my grandmother used to bake. The fruity undertone emanates such a refined quality, well-balanced with the gentle warming spices that seep through its sweet juicy flesh. This all rests on a soft and slightly balsamic layer of the most remarkable Virginia Cedarwood which only adds to the elegance that this fragrance so abundantly exudes.
Kajal Homme II continues to surprise with a subtle yet noticeable juxtaposition between freshness and warmth. It maintains those green notes throughout, their crisp and clean nuances proceeding to make an appearance, even as the fragrance welcomes more soft and warm notes. The scent begins to mellow into the most well-rounded woody base of Sandalwood, Oakmoss and Patchouly, all lifted by an understated sweetness that isn’t cloying or overbearing. Musk adds a distinctively rich masculinity that not only permeates the air but allows this sophisticated elixir to cling to the skin for the longest time.
I’ve never been so happy to come across a fragrance which I would have perhaps overlooked in ordinary circumstances. Thanks to the power of social media, the image of its bronzed vessel immediately captivated me and it has now turned into being one of my favourite scents of 2021 so far. The brand states that this new fragrance was created to complement a person’s charm, charisma and uniqueness and I couldn’t agree more. It is such a distinctive fragrance that complements rather than overpowers but is still sure to turn heads.
Top Notes: Green Notes, Bergamot, Lemon, Mandarin & Orange Blossom
Heart Notes: Peach, Cinnamon, Cedar, Cloves, Lavender, Rosemary, Clary Sage
Base Notes: Musk, Woody Notes, Patchouly, Sweet Notes, Sandalwood, Oakmoss.
Blu Blazer Guy Rating:
Presentation 4.5/5
Sillage 4/5
Projection 4/5
Longevity 4/5
Fragrance Concentration: Eau de Parfum
100ml £152.69 – Available from Kajal Perfumes Paris.
BLU BLAZER GUY 