L'Eau d'Issey Shades of Kolam
Fragrance notes
Character
L'Eau d'Issey Shades of Kolam leans heavily on its savory and lactonic facets, which can feel unusual for those expecting a purely bright floral. The rice basmati note gives the opening a creamy, almost starchy texture that sits oddly against the sharp grapefruit and spicy cardamom. Freesia adds a crisp edge, but the initial impression is more kitchen than garden, with a warmth that feels out of place before the composition settles.
As the heart develops, jasmine sambac and may rose bring a classic white floral sweetness that softens the cereal-like opening. The rice note remains present, creating a milky backdrop that makes the flowers feel rounded and heavy rather than airy. This is where the fragrance finds its balance, moving from that strange start into a fuller, more cohesive floral arrangement that carries a distinct amber warmth.
Composed by Marie Salamagne, this release suits a bright morning in a sunlit room where the air feels fresh and clean. The cedar base anchors the blend with a dry, woody finish that prevents the florals from becoming too sugary. It carries a subtle animalic trace from the ambergris, adding a slightly raw depth to the smooth petals and citrus, leaving a trail that feels both aromatic and
Smells similar
We matched these by the notes each one lists, giving more weight to the unusual ones they share. Sharing materials does not make one a copy of the other.
