FRAGRANCE | Black Orchid EDP by Tom Ford: A dark, sexy, and confident masterpiece

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The one that started it all for Tom Ford's eponymous fragrance brand, Black Orchid has become a modern classic, a scent adored by many, a scent so beautifully constructed it could have easily been sold under his pricier Private Blend line, considering many of the fragrances released under that label can't hold a candle to this masterpiece. But of course I'm not complaining. It's a fragrance that, although intended for women, has also found favor among the opposite sex—and I can see why. 

The opening is a warm, creamy mix of florals with a citric bite that lasts for several minutes. A floral and fruity sweetness soon develops but eventually melts and gets lost in the blend. Early on, Black Orchid is already establishing itself as a fragrance where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts instead of something with a showcase note or two. I get whiffs of chocolate, patchouli, and nondescript spices but none really stands out to my nose unless I make a conscious effort to focus. Otherwise, it's just this intoxicating, luscious creaminess atop an earthy base that fills the air—although that sounds like an oversimplification. 

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The scent doesn't change a great deal throughout its impressively long life. It doesn't entertain you with multiple pronounced transitions. It just projects this enthralling scent that's all at once dark, sensual, and confident—and quite strongly so. It isn't a scent that's universal in its appeal, though, but its commanding presence cannot be denied. It exudes this power that's comparable to the likes of Dior's Poison and a host of other 80s powerhouses befitting date nights and formal occasions. It's also wise to avoid using it on really hot days.

Because of its underlying earthiness and that it decides against highlighting the natural properties of its floral and fruity notes, Black Orchid sashays without necessarily wearing its femininity on its sleeve. I know fragrances aren't supposed to be defined by gender but Black Orchid makes it a lot easier for many people to accept that. You only see—or smell, rather—dark, sexy confidence in a bottle. It's arguably one of Tom Ford's best, period.

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