If I must have a fragrance that isn’t flawless in its entirety, then I’ll choose one whose weak section is the top notes: at least they fade away fairly rapidly. So I’m willing to ignore the first few minutes of Stecca‘s existence, which feature a sharp, almost overwhelming synthetic assault reminiscent of the glue used in model making.
After the chemical onslaught, proceedings become decidedly more natural-smelling. A mintiness emerges, followed by an edgy, green tartness, a piercing ginger and a deep earthiness. Before you know it, you’re wearing a tomato on your skin, and not just the fruit, but the sap from the vines as well. It’s an odd sensation, mainly because it isn’t at all unpleasant. In fact, it feels much more refreshing and comfortable than spraying oneself with most of the so-called summer scents that invade department stores with depressing regularity every year.
I haven’t been to a fancy dress party for over two decades, but if I do ever go to one again, it shall be as a giant tomato, and I will complete the ensemble by spraying myself with this amusing little number.
[Review based on a sample of eau de parfum provided by Scent & Sensibility in 2011; fragrance tested on skin.]
Persolaise.
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Hey, the glue/paint/nail polish noted can GO!!!, period. everything else in a scent can be good, but those chemical odors tend to ruin things for yt!
I'm a fan of CB I Hate Perfumes "Memory of Kindness", that is also about tomatoes. So with the exception of the intro note I think this one sounds lovely. Thanks for the review 🙂
Linda, strangely enough, the chemical opening is what makes Stecca quite distinctive. Personally, I would prefer it to be toned down, but there's no doubt that it's very bold.
Flavourfanatic, I really need to smell Memory Of Kindness.
Have you tried Sisley Eau de Campagne? I find tomato in there too, and it's very refreshing.
Tania, I can't say that I have. I'll have to seek it out the next time I pass a Marionnaud… which will probably be within the next 30 mins…