Sakura

"Sakura" comes into bloom on my skin with the rose-almond note, and a glimpse of an amaretto, preventing the scent from being too infantile or cloyingly sweet. I suppose this is what Francois Demachy envisaged as a Japanese cherry blossom. The green note comes later (there you have my nose doing a number on me again) with a LOTV-like facet. I do not complain as LOTV (lily-of-the-valley) is one of my all time favourite flowers and an avatar of the youthful spring. The heart becomes creamy and white floral, with fresh accords, and rose almost invisible, drowned in the tree blossoms' petals. The fragrance is light and indulgent, with skin close projection and beautiful undertones, glistening through the composition. Despite its sweet aroma, it is neither heavy nor suffocating, and the sugary note supplied by the rose is airy and unimposing. Mimosa is very nicely done, very realistic and not confined to its usual powdery-only facet. It is yellow, and fuzzy, and cute, blending and contrasting very well with delicate violet. Musk creates a light and fresh base, holding the florals together, like a white ribbon around the bouquet. "Sakura" should applied in several layers, if one wants a stronger projection and sillage, but even then it will not be overpowering or selfish. It is a most versatile fragrance for any time of the day, year and occasion, and can be tuned up or down at one's whim and pleasure. This is why I always have it in my travel bag - it never disappoints or feels out of place. This is not a fragrance of particular complexity, revolutionary or requiring astuteness to particular notes and styles. It is exceptionally easy, democratic even, transcending all ages and trends, feminine and joyous, and pretty. "Sakura" is not about geishas or femme fatale, but she is about the spring time in Japan (or any other country), with blooming flowers and trees, golden sun in azure skies, joy of life and purity of spirit. It makes one's step lighter, eyes shinier and smile happier. It isa bout that moment in time when everything is perfect.