Iris Noir

Exquisitely lovely! While I find this scent overly saccharine for the summer season (my go-to choice for hot weather would be Yardley Iris's fresh and herbal quality), it's both direct and captivating. It's challenging not to appreciate this fragrance on a cold winter day, provided sweet patchouli florals don't clash with your preferences.

This perfume is breathtakingly stunning! Despite its lack of visual appeal, it packs a powerful punch with its intense and rich blend of spices, which creates a dark yet alluring scent. I detect a woody note, although none is mentioned, which adds depth to this captivating fragrance. The iris notes are unlike any I've encountered in real life; I'd love to have a garden filled with that variety! Iris Noir is an exceptional perfume that transcends gender boundaries, making it suitable for both men and women. Yves Rocher's affordable prices don't compromise on quality, as IR rivals high-end French houses like Guerlain and Givenchy. However, the sillage and longevity of Iris Noir are only average, a common trait among YR fragrances. The dry down is enchanting, with subtle smoky undertones. Compared to Rose Absolue, I.R. is significantly more impressive; I'm eager to try the amber fragrance as well.

The bergamot in the opening is overpowering for me, rendering the initial few minutes of this fragrance unpleasantly screechy and sharp, akin to a cheap laundry detergent. I'm fond of the iris and tonka notes, but unfortunately, the dominant patchouli note and jarring quality of the opening detract from its full potential.

This perfume exudes a sophisticated and refined aura, with a subtle sweetness that avoids being overly sugary. The powdery and dark iris notes add to its mystique, making it a truly captivating fragrance. I'm impressed by the exceptional longevity, which lasts well over six hours on my skin. Overall, this scent is absolutely fantastic and I thoroughly enjoy wearing it.

After years of contemplation, I've finally taken the plunge and committed to a full bottle. Although I initially hesitated due to uncertainty about my wearability, I couldn't deny that Iris Noir is among the most stunning iris fragrances out there, in my opinion. So, when I discovered it at an affordable price, I decided to take the leap. This perfume offers a refined, floral, powdery iris experience with a soft touch. In contrast to Guerlain's bold, playful, and sweet approach, Iris Noir presents itself as hauntingly subtle and slightly bitter - a quality that resonates more strongly with me.