Imagine stepping into the vibrant world of a bustling Middle Eastern souk, where the air is infused with the aromas of spices, dried fruits, and exotic ingredients. Today, we explore the fragrance Arabie by Serge Lutens, a captivating scent that invites you to wander through these aromatic landscapes, reflected through its intricate blend of notes.
The Concept Behind Arabie
Launched in 2000, Arabie was created in collaboration with renowned perfumer Christopher Sheldrake. The fragrance evokes the lavish experience of exploring an ancient market, capturing the essence of living spices, rich fruits, and sensual resins. Its official descriptor quotes Lutens himself: “Arabia, immense within us, embraces all fragrances.”
Notes That Tell a Story
Arabie is a gourmand-oriental fragrance, presenting a tapestry of notes that unfolds on the skin. The primary notes include:
- Cedar
- Sandalwood
- Candied Mandarin Peel
- Dried Figs
- Medjool Dates
- Cumin
- Nutmeg
- Clove
- Balsamic Resins
- Tonka Bean
- Siamese Benzoin
- Myrrh
- Labdanum Amber
While some sources include additional notes like bay leaf and immortelle, each ingredient represents the diverse flavors and scents of the kitchens and marketplaces of the Middle East.
An Olfactory Experience
The Opening Notes
Upon application, Arabie opens with a sweet yet sticky flourish, reminiscent of luscious dates and rich figs. The immortelle, often compared to maple syrup, melds with spicy herbs classically found in a Middle Eastern pantry, such as basil and oregano. This nourishing blend sets a uniquely inviting stage.
The Heart of the Fragrance
As the fragrance evolves, a floral aspect emerges alongside the rich spices. The candied orange adds a sweet, citrusy contrast to the bitterness of the bay leaf, giving the scent an intricate complexity. Middle Eastern spices like cumin and nutmeg add depth, reminiscent of a vibrant market scene bustling with life.
Expanding into the Base
Midway through the journey, the fragrance transitions from its culinary beginnings into a warmer, resinous base. The dominate notes of labdanum and tonka bean harmonize with the sweetness of myrrh and benzoin, resulting in an amber structure that adds depth and longevity. Dried fruit notes linger as faint echoes in this plush backdrop.
Longevity and Sillage
Despite its light, airy quality upon initial application, Arabie does not skimp on longevity. Users have reported impressive staying power of up to 24 hours, effectively transitioning from a strong sillage to a subtle skin scent over time. This makes it not only a beautifully complex fragrance but also a practical choice for everyday wear.
Conclusion: Why You Should Explore Arabie
If you have a penchant for gourmand or oriental fragrances, this captivating scent is essential for your perfume wardrobe. Arabie offers a unique take, steering away from overly sweet profiles while embracing the rich and savory aromas from distant cuisines. Its complex evolution from sweet fruits to warming spices and rich, resinous bases serves as both a sophisticated fragrance and a journey through scent.
Where to Buy Arabie
Arabie is available at several retail locations and online stores. Its price often ranges between $58.49 and $135 for a 50ml bottle, with discount sites frequently offering the best deals. Major retailers like FragranceNet, Luckyscent, and Serge Lutens' official website carry this fragrance, ensuring accessibility for all scent enthusiasts.
FAQ about Serge Lutens Arabie
1. What kind of scent is Arabie?
Arabie is classified as a gourmand-oriental fragrance, blending sweet and savory notes inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine.
2. What are the main notes in Arabie?
The key notes include dried figs, Medjool dates, cedar, sandalwood, cumin, nutmeg, and various resins like labdanum and benzoin.
3. How long does Arabie last on the skin?
Arabie is known for its longevity, with many users experiencing wear for up to 24 hours after application.
4. Is Arabie suitable for everyday wear?
Yes, its complex yet balanced profile makes it versatile for daily use, depending on your personal taste in fragrances.
5. Where can I purchase Arabie?
Arabie can be purchased at various online retailers including FragranceNet, Luckyscent, and directly from Serge Lutens' website.