Coquette by Smells Like Lulu

Coquette by Smells Like Lulu: A Delightfully Sweet Floral Gourmand

Coquette, the latest offering from niche perfume house Smells Like Lulu, is a charming surprise for those with a penchant for sweet, edible scents. Launched in 2024, this unisex fragrance was composed by perfumer Alan Humberto Maldonado Navarro, who has crafted a blend that marries sugary notes with a touch of warmth.

The name 'Coquette' hints at flirtation and allure, and the scent certainly delivers. It opens with a lively burst of candy floss and red berries, setting a playful and youthful mood. As it progresses, it unveils a more refined heart of spicy notes and Grasse rose, before settling into a snug base of caramel, amber, and musk.

The top notes are pure treat: candy floss brings that nostalgic fairground sweetness, while red fruits such as raspberry or strawberry add a juicy tartness. This opening is bright and effervescent, making a bold first impression that is both inviting and friendly.

Once the fragrance settles, the heart emerges with a blend of warm spices and the iconic Grasse rose. The rose is not powdery or old-fashioned; instead, it's velvety and slightly jammy, which complements the fruity top. The spices, perhaps cinnamon or clove, add a subtle kick that prevents the scent from becoming too cloying.

The base is where Coquette truly excels. Caramel provides a rich, buttery sweetness, while amber adds a resinous warmth. Musk gives it a soft, skin-like finish that makes it intimate and long-lasting. The overall effect is a gourmand that is both comforting and elegant, with a hint of animalic depth from the musk that keeps it intriguing.

The accords of this fragrance highlight its multifaceted character: sweet, caramel, rose, musky, amber, fruity, warm spicy, and even a touch of animalic. These elements come together in a harmonious blend that is versatile enough for both daytime and evening wear. It projects moderately, leaving a pleasant trail that invites closer inspection.

Coquette is not a shy scent; it demands attention but does so with a playful wink. It works particularly well in cooler weather, when its warmth can wrap around you like a cosy blanket. However, it can also be worn on spring evenings, where the floral and fruity aspects shine through.

The bottle design, if we may add, likely reflects the playful nature of the fragrance, with a feminine yet modern aesthetic. But the true star is the juice inside, which offers a unique take on the gourmand floral genre.

Coquette is perfect for anyone who enjoys sweet, gourmand fragrances but wants something with a bit of edge. It appeals to both men and women who appreciate a unisex scent that is playful yet sophisticated. If you like scents like 'La Vie Est Belle' or 'Prada Candy' but want something more niche, this is for you. It's also great for those who love rose but prefer it in a non-traditional context.

Overall, Coquette by Smells Like Lulu is a charming and well-crafted fragrance that delivers on its promise of flirtatious sweetness. It earns a solid 4 out of 5 from us, as it is original, wearable, and has excellent longevity. The only downside is that it might be too sweet for some, but for its target audience, it's a must-try.