When it comes to niche perfumes, By Kilian stands out with its luxurious offerings. Among its fragrance collections, L’Oeuvre Noire has gained both acclaim and criticism. This article delves into the mixed experiences surrounding two fragrances from this line: Straight to Heaven (White Cristal) and Love (Don’t Be Shy). By analyzing the ingredients, scent profiles, and overall user responses, we aim to provide a clearer understanding of these polarizing perfumes.
Straight to Heaven (White Cristal): A Controversial Release
Overview of the Fragrance
Released in 2007, Straight to Heaven is part of By Kilian’s L’Oeuvre Noire collection. Crafted by perfumer Sidonie Lancesseur, the fragrance features a complex blend of notes including Martinican rum absolute, dried fruits accord, Javanese nutmeg oil, hedione, cedarwood, Indonesian patchouli oil, ambergris, vanilla absolute, and white musk.
First Impressions: A Heavy Metal Experience
The opening notes of Straight to Heaven can be jarring. Initial impressions often reveal a strikingly metallic and antiseptic scent reminiscent of a hospital environment. Many wearers describe it as featuring a potent combination of rubbing alcohol and a synthetic powdered vanilla, leading to confusion about its intended character.
Development Over Time
As the scent evolves, some of the initial harshness fades. However, users report that the fragrance struggles to escape a persistent medicinal undertone. Hours later, after the rum notes appear, the fragrance transforms into an odd concoction of cedar, menthol, and a synthetic musk that overshadows the other notes.
User Feedback
The reception of Straight to Heaven has been divisive. While some users appreciate its complexity, others liken it to an unpleasant experience akin to an alcohol-soaked clinical environment. The fragrance holds a mixed rating on sites like Makeupalley, highlighting the divide between enthusiasts and detractors. One user humorously characterized the fragrance as Straight to AA due to its strong alcohol notes.
Love (Don’t Be Shy): A Sugar Bomb?
Understanding the Fragrance Profile
Love (Don’t Be Shy), also launched in 2007, was born from the expertise of perfumer Calice Becker. This fragrance categorizes itself as oriental, but many users argue it leans heavily into gourmand territory. With notes like bergamot oil, Tunisian neroli oil, pink pepper, honeysuckle, and caramelized sugar, the fragrance promises a sweet experience.
A Sweet Start
Upon first application, the fragrance aggressively announces itself with a burst of neroli and caramelized sugar. The sweetness can be overwhelming, reminiscent of candy, which may appeal to some but nauseate others. As it develops, users often detect cloying vanillas and sugary florals that can become excessively sweet over time.
Longevity and Aftermath
One of the stark characteristics of Love (Don’t Be Shy) is its longevity. Reviews frequently mention traces of the fragrance lingering long after it has been scrubbed off. This prompts discussions among users about the chemical nature of the scent and its overwhelming sweetness.
Community Reactions
The community response to Love (Don’t Be Shy) is equally polarized. While some praise it for its sweet nostalgia and unique character, others criticize it for being too synthetic and cloying. Descriptions such as diabetes in a bottle convey the vivid sentiments of frustrated wearers.
Conclusion: A Love-Hate Relationship with By Kilian
By Kilian’s L’Oeuvre Noire collection embodies a unique artistic vision that resonates profoundly with some while completely alienating others. Fragrances like Straight to Heaven polarize users, pulling from medicinal notes that evoke strong reactions. On the other hand, Love (Don’t Be Shy) leans into sugary nostalgia that some adore, but others find unbearable.
Ultimately, the response to these fragrances underscores the subjective nature of scent. What could be a revolting experience for one might evoke cherished memories for another. It's a testament to the complexity of olfactory pleasures and personal preferences.
FAQ
Q: Are By Kilian fragrances worth the price?
A: By Kilian fragrances are known for their luxurious packaging and high-quality ingredients, but whether they're worth the price depends on individual taste and budget.
Q: How should I test these fragrances before purchasing?
A: It’s advisable to test fragrances in-store if possible, or to request samples online to see how they interact with your skin chemistry before committing to a purchase.
Q: Do By Kilian fragrances have good longevity?
A: Many users report that By Kilian fragrances, including Straight to Heaven and Love (Don’t Be Shy), have significant longevity, often lasting for hours on the skin.