There has been a lot of press coverage over the last few weeks of Jo Malone's new fragrance, Velvet Rose and Oud. It caught my eye for two reasons. Firstly, I adore the scent of Rose, and wear Jo Malone Red Roses a lot. Secondly, I was curious as to what Oud was, and what is smelt like....
So, as it's my birthday in a few days, I decided to treat myself to a bottle of the Cologne, so I could review it for you guys! In short, it is gorgeous. A headier rose perfume, with dep floral tones, with a spicy hint, a bit clovey almost. It turn out the Oud is the resin from a tree (also known as Agar wood), which is very aromatic and traditionally used in incense. It also happens to be one the most expensive substances on earth, which may go towards explaining the huge price tag of this perfume (£95 for 100ml).
Despite the eye watering price (Mr. G saw the receipt, words were spoken, we don't mention Oud in our house anymore), it is an incredible perfume. A deeper version of Red Roses, almost more grown up. It has a similar depth to Pomegranite Noir, if you are familiar, and is delicious on a summer's evening. Whereas Red Roses has an innocence to it, this is deeper, darker and a bit more flirtatious.
However, I am well aware that this is way out of most people's price range (mine included according to Mr. G), and there are some fab alternatives out there. Dolce and Gabbana have a Rose perfume, which although I have never tried, a good friend of mine adores, and she always smells delicious. L'Occitaine also make a soft rose perfume, called Rose 4 Reines, which has a delicious muskiness to it, and is much more reasonable.
Jo Malone, Velvet Rose and Oud Cologne Intense, £95 for 100ml (a very big bottle to be fair!), available online and in Jo Malone stores
Dolce and Gabbana, Rose The One, from £54, available online and at all big perfume counters
L'Occitane, Rose Des 4 Reines, from £33, available online and from L'Occitane stores and counters.
I wear Rose by Paul Smith which is also lovely.
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