What They Say: "The sophisticated world of Acqua di Parma with its impeccable and understated refinement, presents Blu Mediterraneo: a collection of products whose noble ingredients create the link between essences and emotions, awakening pleasant feelings of well-being. Capri, ever glamorous, fashionable and cosmopolitan, is the star of many films. It is the very essence of delightful idleness and relaxed exclusive rituals. The qualities of the (Arancia) - Capri Orange are based on the soothing properties of the perfectly blended essential oils of orange, lemon and tangerine.
Lisa Says: Of the four fragrances comprising the Blu Mediterraneo Collection (Arancia, Cypresso, Mandorlo and Fico) I was given Arancia to review. It is, indeed, cosmopolitan, sparkling yet not over done and a versatile fragrance in this reviewer's opinion. Top notes of Sorrento orange, tangerine and grapefruit are so refreshing and light in the August heat, while base notes of caramel and musk give the citrus some "cling" to the skin without being heavy. Heart notes of Petitgrain, cardamom and mate leaves tie top and base notes together beautifully without being too "woodsy". These lovely core notes marry the brightness of the citrus with the warmth of the caramel and musk creating a light but sensual scent .
I really fell in love with this fragrance and can't seem to find anything similar amongst my growing collection on the vanity. It initially goes on with a citrus that's more tangerine or, perhaps it's the "zest" of the citrus that the nose notices first. It dries down to a soft, powdery lemon fragrance - something akin to lemonade but not overly sweet thanks to the musk and petitgrain. The difference between the two is what makes this such a lovely and versatile fragrance. During the day I felt that Arancia was refreshing and cooling, by dinner it was lovely, romantic and warm. I'm really enjoying it now but I can also imagine this fragrance around late fall. Perhaps it's the blend of orange and spice and caramel when it dries down. My little tester bottle is already long empty but is on the list to be replaced with a larger size.
Retail Price: Eau de Toilette - 60ml/$57 & 120ml/$88 (at neimanmarcus.com and other select retailers and boutiques).
(Remember, DeLush doesn't rate fragrances due to differences in taste and body chemistry. Choose "Perfumes" under Product Type in the dropdown box for more fragrance ideas.)
What They Say: "The iris flower, blossoming joyously or poised on the threshold of bloom, pure in its vibrat and vivid colours, has always been an expression of femininity.
Acqua di Parma echoes this idea with the creation of Iris Nobile Eau Parfum - where the sophistication of a classic floral bouquet is accentuated and given allure with chypre - the most feminine of all treasured age-old harmonies.
In this captivating new perfume from Acqua di Parma, the iris uses the entire fragrance pyramid to convey the vibrant impact of its velvety character. The experience unfolds with a sophisticated harmony of iris petals and star anise enriching the fragrance's fresh crystalline head notes. At the scent's heart, the aristocratic notes of the iris fuse with the intensity of pure ylang-ylang and the warm tones of oakmoss, to add a burst of charm to the fragrance. The deep base tones resonate with the warm scent of iris root woven together with vanilla and amber crystals. A combination of iris with oakmoss and patchouli - dominant notes in the chypre - scent - expresses new emotions, vibrant tones and an incredible longevity.
A fragrance is created where sensuality and sophistication are expressed to the utmost degree in each detail."
Melissa Says: I took this fragrance on vacation with me recently, and it was the only scent I used for the entire week. I was so delighted with it every time I put it on that I kept throwing my wrist near my husband's face saying, "Wow, SMELL that! Isn't it GOOD?" Incredibly womanly yet refreshingly subtle, this pretty scent is an instant winner from the very top notes all the way to the base.
Unlike many scents which take a moment to really be appealing after being applied, with its delicate florals combined with just enough warmth, this one is immediately pleasing. There is no bite or overbearing heaviness. The scent becomes more creamy and enticing as it wears. And staying power was not an issue for me at all, even in ninety-degree heat. I really fell in love with this one.
Retail Price: $95/50 ml, $145/100ml ($80-120 for eau de toilette) (all at neimanmarcus.com, bergdorfgoodman.com, and barneys.com and select boutiques)
(Remember, DeLush doesn't rate fragrances due to differences in taste and body chemistry. Choose "Perfumes" under Product Type in the dropdown box for more fragrance ideas.)