Afternoon Swim

The fragrance opens with gentle and bright top notes of orange and mandarin. The charm of this perfume lies in its fragrance transition, which defies typical citrus perfumes: it accelerates from a gentle softness to an exhilarating freshness. While many perfumes gradually transition from a fresh scent to a more mellow one, this fragrance starts with a gentle, bright scent and gradually shifts to a refreshingly invigorating aroma. The initial sweetness of citrus is followed by a moment of vibrant ginger spiciness, creating a dynamic and exhilarating feeling, much like plunging into a vast, waveless ocean. A hint of grapefruit-based vibrancy is enveloped in the sea breeze of ambergris, allowing you to savor a moment of pure, luxurious elegance. While you might be tempted to use it generously like a shower, remember that this is an eau de parfum, so spray it as you normally would.

Honestly, I still don’t quite understand where all the hype is coming from. It opens with fresh citrus notes, bright, summery, almost holiday like, but also fairly predictable. It feels more like a postcard from a holiday than a real experience, pleasant, but lacking a bit of soul. I can hardly detect any ginger, which is a shame, as it could have brought some sparkle and life to the composition. I don’t pick up on any ambergris either, which leaves the whole thing feeling rather flat and one dimensional. It gives me the impression of being diluted, like a citrus lemonade that looks appealing, but after the first sip turns out watery and quickly loses its flavour. Longevity and projection, especially at this price point, are average at best. To me, it’s a missed opportunity, it could have been something truly beautiful and captivating, but instead it feels fleeting and a little underwhelming.