Iris by L'Erbolario

I bought this blind because I’m a talcum fan. At first, I was scared off by the sweetness of the violets and iris, but then it softened and let that vintage talcum shine through. It doesn’t leave a strong trail after an hour. If you like powdery fragrances, give it a try 😉

Best-in-class performance, pure violets and iris. I don’t love it, but I don’t want to get rid of it (yet). Use with caution. It seemed particularly relaxing for sleep; one spray is enough. Edit: Summer 2024, I gifted it to my mother-in-law who appreciates it since I never use it. A pleasure and arrivederci.

In my opinion, it’s a purely feminine perfume. At first, it almost overwhelms you, but if you let the notes flow, it envelops you in a cloud, giving you a sense of security as if you were in a padded cocoon. Top notes of citrus and spicy bergamot with sweet flowers like ylang-ylang. Yes, it smells of strong powdery iris, which increases with the musk and vanilla. After a few hours, it turns into a talisman against insomnia, like that cat sleeping at the foot of the bed, ensuring good nights. It’s cathartic and protective, evoking childhood with talcum powder after a shower. At a specific moment, it smells of luxurious body powder. L’Erbolario didn’t create a refined perfume, but one that evokes peace and well-being, although it may seem strong or annoying at first. Over time, it embraces you and creates a charming atmosphere if you like powdery scents.

I bought it blind because they said it was identical to Teint de Neige, but they have nothing to do with each other. I tested it with friends and they all preferred Teint de Neige; the difference is clear. The price of Iris is much lower. Although in dry down they share the powdery touch, Teint de Neige has a more subtle iris. Iris L’Erbolario is like a slap of violet that smells of air freshener or a medieval market. If you love the pure smell of violet, it’s for you: incredible projection and longevity. If you’re looking for something similar to Teint de Neige, try Junoon by Al Haramain or Soavissima by Profumum Roma, which are more refined, with less violet and a soapy touch more faithful to the original.

Reviewing the perfume version, not the cologne: it’s an iris and violet bomb, very powdery and strong for my taste. It becomes too sweet once it settles. The longevity is exaggerated, over eight hours (by 10 o’clock it’s skin-scent and you have to press your nose against it). They say it has the DNA of Lorenzo Villoresi’s Teint de Neige, but it costs nine to ten times more. They say it’s feminine; I see it as totally unisex.

Every time I apply the cream, I mix a little in my hand with a drop of sandalwood essential oil and the scent transforms into a beautiful powdered lipstick!

It has completely won me over: it’s a warm, sweet breath of talc that transports me to bygone eras, with vanity cases and porcelain dolls. A sweet and tender scent that makes me feel wrapped up and clean. It has excellent sillage and projection; it lasts about six hours on my skin, starting with the iris and moving on to vanilla. I bought it blind after reading reviews here: I was looking for Teint de Neige, but seeing this was very similar and cheaper, I tried it and what a hit. It’s now my go-to fragrance.

Reminds me a lot of Lorenzo Villoresi’s Teint de Neige, but with a twist: once it dries down, the iris loses its gourmand touch and becomes slightly astringent. While the original closes sweetly, this leaves a different base. At first, the iris here shines brighter and the comparison is barely noticeable, but after a few minutes, they’re like twin sisters! I love the quality; the trail is potent, lasts hours on the skin, and the price is a bargain.

I have it from a swap on Fragrantica. It’s quite powdery, the iris is very noticeable but I don’t quite like it. I detect a rough note; I suppose it’s the hawthorn or the tobacco that just doesn’t suit my skin.