As a fragrance collector, I am always on the lookout for unusual and unique brands. Whether through their presentation or their fragrances, if it immediately catches my eye then I know I have to experience it. This is exactly what 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 from 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 world 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. From their Classic Collection I recently tried Dahab meaning “Gold” which was launched in 2015. Created in collaboration with perfumers Christian Carbonnel and Rosendo Maateu, this fruity fragrance is sure to impress a multitude of wearers.
As with each of the Kajal fragrances, the bottles are always interesting and demand immediate attention. Dahab’s black and gold box opens up to reveal a square glass bottle filled to the brim with a precious amber hued nectar. The bottle is embellished with an intricate gold geometric star cap harking back to those Arabic influences. Its bold yet delicate design exudes refinement and elegance whilst remaining contemporary at the same time . As soon as the fragrance is spritzed on to the skin those fruity elements are immediately evident. Crisp granny smith apple provide a fresh and uplifting opening especially combined with zesty bergamot. I can almost sense my teeth sinking into the firm green exterior of the apple, its cloudy white juices ejecting from within as its scent expels into to air.
Although this was not included in the notes of the fragrance, I begin to sense the tantalising aroma of freshly cut peach and imagine its flesh glistening in the sunlight whilst droplets of sweet secretions cascade over its fuzz like skin. As its intensity ensues it is almost as if it has been left to bake in the sun, transforming into a rich pulp of sweet glistening preserve. Before it develops into a sticky or cloying aroma the prominent fruit note begins to reveal itself in all of its tropical glory. Passionfruit, with its tangy, sweet and juicy overtones envelopes the skin, exuding a unique and mouthwatering aspect to the heart of the fragrance. The addition of coriander and cedar allows the fragrance to delicately flirt between warm and cool tones that delicately wafts in the air.
As the intense fruitiness drifts away the base of the fragrance transcends into a powdery sensual veil that subtly flutters from the skin. Subdued woody and musky aromas combine, whimsically caressing the senses with their impressive and addictive qualities. At this point I could barely resist the temptation to keep smelling my wrists, the fragrance luring me in and casting a continuous spell. At first I wondered why the fragrance was named after gold, but on reflection I can see how its warm coloured elixir and rich notes exudes the qualities of this precious metal. I have never really gravitated towards fruity fragrances, usually because they are always so fleeting and do not make a lasting impression. However, Dahab may have just changed my mind with their perfect blend of stunning notes and impressive longevity.
Fragrance Notes:
Top – Bergamot, Granny Smith Apple
Heart – Passionfruit, Cedar, Corriander
Base – Patchouli, Musk, Amber
Blu Blazer Guy Rating:
Presentation 4.5/5
Sillage 4/5
Projection 4/5
Longevity 4/5
Fragrance Concentration: Eau de Parfum
100ml from Kajalperfumes.com
(PR Sample)
BLU BLAZER GUY 