Hypnotic Poison

Almond, vanilla and mystery. Inspired by Hypnotic Poison.

Bitter almond in the opening, moving into a thick, almost medicinal vanilla with jasmine running through it. Strange and addictive — one of the most recognisable women's fragrances ever made.

How it develops

Liquorice and almond open together: bitter, liquorice-like and slightly medicinal, as if you were walking into an old pharmacy. The heart makes it floral without making it light — Arabian jasmine (sambac), sultry and full, with orange blossom adding a sweet, honeyed edge. The base is where it earns its nickname: vanilla and tonka bean, thick and creamy, wrapping the almond into something that smells of marzipan and warm skin at once. Bitter on top, sweet underneath, and that contrast holds to the end.

Who it's for, and when

Evenings and winter. Too dominant for the office or warm weather. Love almond and sweetness but want it lighter and with rose, see C-140. Looking for vanilla and white flowers without the bitter edge, A-140 is the sister.

How to wear it

One spray on the neck is enough for most evenings; two for outdoors in the cold. On moisturised skin, don't rub. More is too much for the people around you.