Times Square stands as an iconic emblem of New York City, a bustling hub with a rich tapestry of experiences and aromas that both fascinate and bewilder. Capturing the essence of this vibrant locale, fragrance house Masque Milano launched its eau de parfum "Times Square," inviting enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the chaotic and colorful world of pre-1990s New York. This article explores the complex olfactory narrative that Times Square embodies, its inspirations, and how it manages to transport wearers back to the city’s lively atmosphere of yesteryear.
The Essence of Times Square
A Fragrant Journey to Yesteryear
Upon its debut in June 2017, Times Square by Masque Milano aimed to evoke a nostalgic experience that pays homage to the unfiltered vibrancy of the Big Apple. The fragrance celebrates the chaotic beauty of the streets, filled with a cacophony of sounds and scents, highlighting elements often overlooked in today’s sanitized version of the city. This audacious approach is both unexpected and humorous, inviting an exploration of the contrasts that define New York life.Fragrance Composition
The official note list for Times Square includes hazelnut accord, glossy lipstick accord, tuberose, osmanthus, sandalwood, gaiacwood, and styrax. Interestingly, the perfume's complexity suggests that certain significant notes remain unlisted, hinting at a more intricate structure nestled within its facade. The initial impression comes through a green and slightly sour tuberose, quickly enveloped by a harmonious blend of sweet nuttiness and apricot-infused osmanthus, crafting a unique entry that sets the stage for the sensory odyssey.Flavorful Facets: A Fruity Opening
The fragrance opens with an invigorating burst of tart and tangy fruitiness, encompassing notes reminiscent of sour cherry candies, luscious red berries, and even hints of green apple. This playful interlude acts as a prelude to the main event, reminiscent of childhood treats and vibrant street life, capturing some of the very soul of Times Square. A waxy element pervades as well, evoking the allure of lip products that further intertwine with the fruity notes to create an almost edible sensation.Makeup and Glamour
Masque's fragrance description skillfully intertwines the vivid imagery of lipstick and glamour with the rawness of the city. The waxy, fatty undertone, akin to vintage lipsticks enriched with orris fixatives, plays a prominent role in shaping the fragrance's identity. This connection to makeup underscores a thematic exploration of femininity and urbanity, invoking images of bachelorettes and nightlife amidst the fragrance's kaleidoscope of scents.Transitioning Textures: The Evolution of Times Square
Shifting Dynamics: From Fruity Floral to Woody Depths
As Times Square unfolds, it engages in a graceful transformation that gradually delineates its character. Approximately 1.25 hours into its journey, unexpected elements such as smoky guaiac and styrax begin to emerge. These add a darker, more profound personality to the composition, casting aside the exuberance of opening notes in favor of a more somber and contemplative vibe.Contrasting Elements
The ensuing battle between the smoky woods and floral makeup notes keeps the experience dynamic. The waxy and floral essences drift to the background, while the deep, charred woods take center stage. This juxtaposition evokes a feeling that mirrors the city where chaos and beauty coexist, albeit not always harmoniously. It’s a reflection of Times Square itself, an arena of contradictions.Finding Balance
At this stage, wearers may find themselves questioning how well the elements marry. Does the smoky depth blend seamlessly with the vibrant makeup accord, or do these aspects struggle for attention? Each individual’s skin chemistry plays a crucial role in the outcome, leading to a variety of experiences that may oscillate between cohesive and discordant.Return of the Fruity Notes
Approaching the 3.75-hour mark, Times Square undergoes another revival, where it resurrects the fruity and floral tones. Elements of sweet makeup powder and juicy fruit sensations emerge, leading to a bouquet reminiscent of cherry-flavored lip gloss and softened woods. This return is not merely nostalgic; it serves as a reminder of the vibrant experiences tied deeply to the cityscape.The Lasting Impression of Times Square
Scent Progression and Longevity
The remarkable journey of Times Square culminates in a drydown that can be summed up as a harmonious blend of cherry-scented tonka powder. It’s not merely a linear experience, as multiple layers of flavor coalesce into a lasting impression—a sweet and powdery sensation that lingers on the skin for hours. The fragrance embraces the wearer, ensuring they carry a piece of Times Square with them throughout the day.Key Performance Metrics
In terms of projection, Times Square begins powerfully, enveloping its wearer in a cloud of scent. However, as the hours tick by, the projection diminishes, eventually settling into a skin scent by the fifth hour while retaining sufficient allure to keep one intrigued. With an impressive longevity lasting over twelve hours, this fragrance manages to maintain presence without overwhelming the senses.Final Thoughts on Times Square by Masque Milano
Masque Milano's Times Square is undoubtedly a creative and thought-provoking interpretation of New York City captured in a bottle. It dives into the heart of bustling streets with an innovative approach that pushes the boundaries of what a fragrance can encapsulate. While this explorative composition may not resonate universally, it is a worthy endeavor that invites adventurers to sample the essence of the city—vibrant yet gritty, glamorous yet raw. This perfume demonstrates that true artistry in fragrance lies in its ability to elicit emotion and memories, creating a multi-layered narrative that facilitates exploration of the olfactory landscape. Before committing to a purchase, it is essential to sample Times Square, as each person will experience its dualities in unique ways.What are the main notes in Times Square by Masque Milano?
The main notes of Times Square include hazelnut accord, glossy lipstick accord, tuberose, osmanthus, sandalwood, gaiacwood, and styrax.
How does Times Square evolve over time?
Times Square undergoes several transformations, initially displaying fruity and floral elements, moving into smoky woody accords, and finally culminating in a sweet, cherry-powdered drydown.