I love a fragrance to smell like something rather than a blend of notes that I’m supposed to cleverly detect roots of dandelion and angel wings. Penhaligon’s Ostara smells of daffodils, simple as.
That’s not to say that it isn’t a complex fragrance, because in many ways it is. But it’s managed to grab that slightly green and peppery note that daffodils have as well as the discernable floral note. There are SO many ingredients in this, from hyacinth, white woods and violet leaf to wisteria, clementine and spearmint, but it’s got to make you wonder if that’s really what’s required to make a thing smell of daffs. Actually, it’s more of a fragrance concept – that of the life cycle of a daffodil – and unusually for me, I can get that. The peppery, wood-shed smell is definitely bulby.
The dry down is gentle, woody and green – I’d say it’s not a strong fragrance but more a scent that sits well on the skin without intruding.
Personally, I prefer the opening on this one – it’s spring time in a bottle at that stage and instantly reminds you of spring walks in the woods on a sunny day. As a colour, Ostara would be a watery yellow. It’s £56 and launches in the spring.
Transparency Disclosure
All products are sent to me as samples from brands and agencies unless otherwise stated. Affiliate links may be used. Posts are not affiliate driven.
