Introduction to Shay & Blue London
Shay & Blue London has recently made its way to the American fragrance market, bringing with it a unique selection of scents that have already begun to create a stir among perfume enthusiasts. Founded in Britain, this brand is known for its artisanal approach to perfumery, offering fragrances that blend classic elements with modern twists. Among the notable offerings are Salt Caramel, Blood Oranges, and Blacks Club Leather.
Salt Caramel: The Gourmand Delight
Salt Caramel is described as a gourmand fragrance that teases the senses with its indulgent layering of sweet notes. Created by Julie Massé in collaboration with Dom De Vetta, this fragrance was launched in 2014 and has quickly garnered attention for its unique composition.
Fragrance Profile
Salt Caramel opens with a burst of delectable liquid caramel, expertly balanced by a splash of tangy sea salt. The heart reveals a smooth tonka bean, while the base notes introduce a rich bourbon vanilla, supported by the earthiness of sandalwood. Together, these elements create an aroma that evokes the richness of English confectionery, particularly reminiscent of Charbonnel et Walker’s Sea Salt Caramel Truffles.
Personal Experience
Upon application, the fragrance unfolds deliciously, enveloping the wearer in warm, buttery caramel notes. However, as the scent develops, the initial sweetness begins to mellow, transforming into a lighter rendition of crème brûlée, punctuated by a hint of burnt sugar. Despite these intriguing transitions, it also introduces a somewhat sharp synthetic musk that can overshadow the beautiful gourmand elements. As the hours pass, the fragrance begins to lose its complexity, leaning into a familiar soft sweetness that might not captivate everyone.
Longevity and Sillage
Salt Caramel boasts a commendable longevity of up to nine hours, although its sillage diminishes after the first couple of hours, becoming more subdued. It appeals to fans of sweeter fragrances but may feel linear to those seeking more depth and nuance. This fragrance is perfect for lovers of creamy, sweet, and uncomplicated scents, akin to the likes of Pink Sugar.
Blood Oranges: Fresh and Zesty
Next, we explore Blood Oranges, another noteworthy creation from Shay & Blue. Released in 2012, this scent is built around the vibrant juiciness of blood oranges, drawing a different crowd altogether.
Fragrance Profile
Blood Oranges begins with an immediate burst of citrus, offering a refreshing opening that is enchanting and uplifting. The top notes of blood orange are soon complemented by heart notes of intense Napa leather, adding depth and adding a touch of sensuality. The fragrance mellows into a base of musk, charred woods, and amber as it dries down.
Personal Experience
When applied, the fragrance brings to mind the zesty, tangy aroma of freshly squeezed citrus. Yet, as it develops, it reveals a more masculine character, often moving towards aromatic woodiness and clean musk that might lack the complexity expected from a fragrance grounded in such vibrant notes.
Longevity and Sillage
Approaching its second hour, Blood Oranges transitions into an ostensibly straightforward, woodsy scent. While it retains decent longevity, lasting nearly nine hours, it becomes more subdued and less distinctive as the day progresses. This may suit those who appreciate a fresh, crisp scent that is easy to wear, though its daily appeal may not cater to all.
Blacks Club Leather: A Tribute to London
Blacks Club Leather is perhaps the most avant-garde of the three, designed to echo the essence of a chic London members-only club. Also released in 2014, it aims to capture the olfactory experiences tied to antique leather, warm woods, and a cozy setting.
Fragrance Profile
This fragrance presents an intriguing mix of English leather at the top, closely followed by notes of warming cognac and beeswax—a truly luxurious concoction. The blend ultimately settles into a warm embrace of wood notes and incense that evoke a sense of sophistication.
Personal Experience
Blacks Club Leather opens with a striking, bold presence of leather mixed with a slightly bitter tobacco note, alongside a backdrop of dusty antiques. The initial impression, though complex, veers into somewhat challenging territory with its boldness. It’s not until around the two-hour mark that sweeter nuances appear, creating a more enchanting scent profile that ultimately softens into a velvety suede, intriguing yet subtle.
Longevity and Sillage
The longevity of Blacks Club Leather extends past ten hours, with moderate sillage. This fragrance may resonate more with those who appreciate mineral-like, earthy scents and find charm in the emotional weight leather signifies.
Conclusion: Where to Find Shay & Blue Fragrances
Shay & Blue offers a valuable selection of distinctive fragrances that cater to various preferences, from soft gourmands to mature leather notes. In the U.S., their fragrances are primarily available through Indigo Perfumery, which provides a good selection of samples for those looking to explore before committing to a full bottle. Additionally, international buyers can directly access the Shay & Blue website for shipping options.
FAQ
What are the price points for Shay & Blue fragrances?
Shay & Blue typically offers fragrances in two sizes: a 30 ml bottle generally costs around $50, and a 100 ml bottle is priced at approximately $90, with some variations based on specific scents.
Are Shay & Blue fragrances suitable for all seasons?
Yes, the versatility of Shay & Blue scents makes them suitable for year-round wear. Lighter fragrances such as Blood Oranges are perfect for warmer climates, while richer options like Blacks Club Leather can be ideal for cooler weather.
How should I apply these fragrances for the best effect?
For optimal wear, apply fragrances to pulse points such as wrists and behind the ears, and consider layering with unscented moisturizers to help hold the fragrance longer.
Can I get samples before buying a full bottle?
Yes, Shay & Blue offers samples for purchase, and they can often be found at retailers like Indigo Perfumery in the U.S., allowing you to experience the fragrance before making a commitment.