Aerin Lauder
Aerin Tangier Vanille
Aerin Lauder, Instagram lover and granddaughter of cosmetics industry leader Estee Lauder, launched her own lifestyle brand in 2012 and has produced several best-selling fragrances since then. My favorite is Waterlily Sun which has bright, dewy and fresh notes of bergamot and jasmine and I was excited about sampling her newest creation, Tangier Vanille. I don’t generally gravitate towards vanilla fragrances, preferring my vanilla in cupcakes, but this one had generated some buzz and so I figured a whiff was in order.
According to the Aerin website, this fragrance was inspired by the mystery and splendor of Tangier in Morocco. A crossroads of many cultures, the scents of spices like vanilla and saffron are everywhere from the palaces and gardens to the legendary bazaars.
Aerin sums up the fragrance story: “Tangier Vanille is a unique combination of notes that remind me of Morocco, especially vanilla and bergamot. The heart of the fragrance showcases Madagascar Vanilla, one of the finest and most expensive vanillas in the world. Its unique and distinct impression offer a twist on the traditional sweet aroma with added floral undertones. It creates a delicate yet full aroma.”
My verdict: I definitely caught rich vanilla, bergamot, and Bulgarian rose at the opening and middle, which slowly developed into a sensual sandalwood, amber and musk at the dry down. This is a vaguely exotic yet sweet fragrance, not overpowering at all.
It’s an interesting, unique fragrance. It reminds me a lot of Lancome’s Hypnose but seems to last longer on the skin. It’ll be loved by those who prefer oriental scents with vanilla such as Boucheron Jaipur Saphir. It’s kind of an every day, scaled down version of big orientals like Shalimar or Calvin Klein Obsession.
If she’s looking down from above, I’m imagining proud grandma Estee with a big smile on her face:)
Mmm… I love vanilla fragrances! They remind me of warmth and something homey and beautiful. Adding a somewhat exotic floral twist would make it interesting… I think I might have to check this one out.
I’ve never heard of bergamot though – what does it smell like? (Sorry, may be a hard question.)
Marlaine,
You are not alone in asking this question, trust me:) Bergamot is an oily substance that comes from the rind from the fruit of a Seville orange tree. The first time anyone smells bergamot they always seem to think “Earl Grey” due to its citrusy yet peppery aroma. It is actually one of the most common notes used in perfume.
Thanks for dropping by!