Armani Code Cashmere by Giorgio Armani

Strong opening; on my skin, the incense and leather dominate. It’s nocturnal and sensual; when it dries down, the jasmine shines and the soul of the Code emerges. The patchouli adds class… Although it’s feminine, I feel it’s more unisex than the original. The trail is strong for the first 2 hours and lasts 8 hours on my skin. I have a decant, and although I liked it, it’s not worth paying for a discontinued flanker just to replace the sky and earth. I’ll stick with the original Code Donna.

I like powerful perfumes, but this one is extreme: super loud. In summer, the notes aren’t distinguished; in winter, they are, but it’s very intense. It doesn’t remind me of the original Armani Code, which I consider a distinct and elegant powerhouse, but rather Ralph Hot (Violet) by Ralph Lauren. If I hadn’t read the notes, I’d say it smells like super sweet black grape. Maybe if I were between 20 and 30 and going to the club, it could work. But for anything else, no.

I went crazy! It’s as if the texture of cashmere had turned into perfume: soft, exquisite, with a musk that lasts 24 hours on the skin and weeks on clothes. The trail is brutal and the projection is top! It has nothing to do with Satin. Ideal for fresh spring nights or all day in autumn/winter. It’s super versatile, rich, and has great presence. It’s a vibrant jasmine with an almond and creamy touch, like a box of chocolates, mixed with cosy cashmere. I love the dry down: a subtle incense and an enigmatic perfect patchouli. Created by Benaim and Ropion in 2017, it reminds me a bit of D&G Pour Femme Intense for that orange blossom note. It stays in my collection! I give it an 11 out of 10: it’s feminine, sophisticated, and magnificent.

Finally, this limited edition arrived at my perfumerie. As I’d never tried Armani Code before, I thought of Satin based on reviews, but when this flanker, Cashmere, arrived, I decided to try it even though it was discontinued. It’s lovely: not super original, but I’d never smelled anything like it. It feels very powdery, floral, and sweet. Notes of jasmine and orange blossom wrap around a dark, deep, and sweet base with almond and other mysteries. It’s seductive and elegant at the same time; upon application, you feel sexy. The trail is powerful and doesn’t go unnoticed, perfect for a club or important dinner. I don’t know if it surpasses Satin, but I’m curious. I bought it instantly and I’m very satisfied.