When it comes to the world of fragrances, each scent tells a unique story, offering a glimpse into the essence of its maker as well as the emotions it seeks to evoke. A Lab on Fire, an intriguing niche perfume house established in 2011, aims to blend artistry with minimalism, focusing on what they call the ""juice"" of the fragrance over elaborate packaging. One of their standout creations is “What We Do In Paris is Secret,” more succinctly known as WWDIP. This light, powdery eau de parfum, crafted by esteemed perfumer Dominique Ropion, has intrigued and divided fragrance enthusiasts since its debut in 2012. In this article, we will explore the fragrance's profile, application, and the wider context of its reception, while also assessing its fit within modern perfumery.
An Overview of the Fragrance
The Composition
What We Do In Paris is classified as a Fruity Floral fragrance. It opens with bright top notes of bergamot and honey, seamlessly blending into the sweetness of lychee, and the floral touch of Turkish rose essence. The heart introduces warm touches of tonka bean and vanilla, accompanied by the delicate powderiness of heliotrope, while the base is rounded off with sandalwood, ambergris, and musks. Such an intricate blend suggests a harmonious olfactory experience, beckoning to captivate wearers with its multilayered composition.The Initial Impression
Upon initial application, WWDIP presents itself with a soft, powdery rose aroma, instantly recognizable yet invitingly gentle. However, this delicate introduction quickly reveals a surprising contrast with notes close to burnt plastic and an underlying medical astringent. This peculiar juxtaposition continues to evolve, making for an unpredictable experience. As the familiar sweet notes of lychee enter the scene, we’re met with an unexpected synthetic quality that some may find off-putting.The Heart of the Fragrance
Within a matter of moments, the fragrance transitions to a beautifully light and airy gourmand cloud, dominated by vanilla and the almond-like qualities of heliotrope. The notes gradually shift to emphasize a full-bodied sweetness, leaving behind faint whispers of rose—a ghost of what once was. This transformation can be seen as a metaphor for youthfulness and innocence, crafting an experience reminiscent of childhood memories filled with fluffy, comforting elements.Longevity and Sillage
One of the vital factors in evaluating a fragrance is longevity—the duration it remains noticeable on the skin. What We Do In Paris showcases an average longevity of around six hours, with a soft sillage that gently lingers in the aura of the wearer. However, despite its ephemeral charm, the scent's limited complexity may lead some to desire a more robust experience.The Evolution Over Time
As the fragrance develops over time, a notable warm creaminess is introduced, marked distinctly by a superficial sense of generic “sandalwood.” The allure of the scent gives way to aromas reminiscent of playful Play-Doh, accompanied by the comforting backdrop of vanilla and sweet powder, culminating in an experience that skews decidedly feminine. This gradual evolution invites the wearer into an enchanting realm but also limits the spectrum of exploration one might expect from a niche fragrance. The elements that many find comforting—sweetness paired with a soft powderiness—may also cause the scent to be perceived as overly simplistic or youthful.User Reception and Market Positioning
As with any fragrance, perceptions will vary widely among users. While some enthusiasts laud WWDIP as a “delicious, sweet nectar,” others express bafflement at its commercial appeal. Largely viewed as a scent suited for a younger audience, the fragrance embodies traits that are akin to phase-shifts in adolescence; it is playful, sweet, and refreshingly uncomplicated. Yet, bubbling beneath the surface lies a sense of banality that some find off-putting, particularly for a product positioned at a price point of $110.Comparative Analysis
With comparisons drawn to notable fragrances such as Kenzo's Amour and Givenchy's Amarige, one could argue that while WWDIP resonates within the gourmand realm, it lacks sufficient depth and complexity to fully stand on its own. Furthermore, fragrance aficionados may feel a disconnect when evaluating the scent’s perceived value against its price tag. This sentiment has generated dialogues around the expectations for niche fragrances; should the cost reflect the elaborate artistry typically associated with such brands? For those whose tastes lean towards more complex or profound scents, WWDIP may feel unnecessary or lacking in artistic integrity. However, it undeniably offers a level of accessibility, as it provides a straightforward exploration of sweetness that caters to those seeking a casual yet enjoyable scent experience.The Broader Implications on the Niche Fragrance Market
Understanding the success and critiques of What We Do In Paris is pivotal in contemplating the narrative of today’s niche fragrance market. By focusing on minimalistic packaging and direct scent lines, brands like A Lab on Fire invite discussions around consumer expectations in luxury perfumery. The dichotomy between artistry and mass-market appeal warrants examination, as fragrance lovers navigate choices influenced by both innovative designs and tried-and-true classics. In a landscape that increasingly welcomes the exploration of unique ingredient compositions, the narrative surrounding What We Do In Paris could serve as an impetus for brands to innovate and elevate their offerings. The dialogue surrounding the perceptions of gender and youth within fragrance marketing also becomes relevant, as scent enthusiasts navigate their identities in relation to fragrance choices.Final Thoughts
Ultimately, What We Do In Paris Is Secret stands as a fragrant portrayal of youthful charm. Despite its apparent simplicity and criticism of shallowness, the fragrance manages to secure a particular niche in the present market. It caters to an audience that enjoys uncomplicated sweetness, inviting discussions around the role of niche brands in an increasingly complex fragrance universe. WWDIP may not appeal universally, but its execution charting the girly realm of powdery gourmand sweetness cannot be entirely dismissed.FAQs
What are the main notes in What We Do In Paris Is Secret?
The main notes include bergamot, honey, lychee, Turkish rose essence, tonka bean, vanilla, heliotrope, sandalwood, ambergris, and musks.
How long does What We Do In Paris last on the skin?
What We Do In Paris typically lasts around six hours on the skin, with a soft sillage.
Who created What We Do In Paris Is Secret?
What We Do In Paris was created by master perfumer Dominique Ropion.
Is What We Do In Paris suitable for young audiences?
Yes, it is often perceived as a youthful and innocent scent, making it highly suitable for younger audiences.