Velvet Desert Oud

“A restrained, stately and sophisticated amber. Very pleasant and calming albeit linear. Part the last dying ember glow of a bedouin campfire, part luxury car dealership showroom from the crushed velvet and suede leather feel. A muted tuscan leather minus the rough saddle-like edges is a fine comparison. Unfortunately the longevity, projection and sillage leave a lot to be desired at this price point.”

“My #1. When you smell something and immediately the stars align. This is that fragrance for me. I smelt it at an airport in Bahrain and couldn't stop thinking about it. One of the only fragrances I've emptied. Sure, longevity isn't the best, and it doesn't have powerhouse projection, but the scent alone is worth it. It smells like money without punching you in the face, delicate but deep, the touch of oud and perfect mix of subtle amber really go well, will always remind me of the luxury of travelling in the middle east.”

“Purchased a few oud fragrances in Jan to explore this note and VDO was one of them. It's smooth, slightly sweet, and less spicy, leathery, or animalic than other ouds I've since tried so I like it very much. Sillage is arm's length and it lasts past lunch. I wouldn't purchase a full-price/size bottle, but I've enjoyed the sample and would buy a mini or a purse spray. If you're looking for a feminine oud with lasting power, I'd check out The Bewitching Yasmine (Penhaligons). So far, its combo of oud and jasmine has equaled big love for me.”