Reflections on Middle Eastern fragrance combinations I gravitated to, in March
1. Fragrance World Shalina Royal Essence + Ajmal Musk Silk Supreme: In this combination, I prioritised three accords- the pink rosiness of peonies, a feeling of clean earthiness from lily of the valley and the combined headiness of white musk. This was not a favourite, but it made do for the very odd bout of warm spring evening.
2. Ahmed al Maghribi Supreme + Ajmal Violet Musc: In this combination, I focused on the rose note (I spent months mulling over the rose note in Supreme before purchasing it, but I am glad I took the risk). A crisp, pink rose with dried red fruits from Supreme and powdery pink roses with violets surrounded by a combined dose of heady musk. A favourite for mixing in close confines with folks who may be leery of strong fragrances.
3. Ahmed al Maghribi Brown + Lattafa Velvet Oud: In this combination, the clary sage and pineapple notes from Brown are heightened. They call to the oakmoss, patchouli and leather in Velvet Oud coming together to form a new fragrance. Perfect for a long day spent in my home office. I tend to apply Brown on skin after moisturising, and then I top-up sprays with Velvet Oud on my clothing throughout the work day.
4. Khadlaj Date Night + Alhambra Philos Opus Noir: Dressed to impress, this combination turns heads. The nutty vanillic projection of Opus Noir suggests it might be a man or woman dressed in something upscale, but not catching. However, the fruity-floral mid and ambery vanillic dry down of Date Night that projects to passersby will tempt the curious to have a peep to match the face of the woman, to the body.
5. Ajmal Sacrifice + Ahmed al Maghribi Rose Noir: Two clones of two well known fragrances. That they are put together and find ways in the mid and dry down to work so well together, is not a mystery. I apply Rose Noir to my skin as the base, and Sacrifice to my clothing.
6. Rasasi La Yuqawam pour femme + Alhambra Black Origami: Two clones of the same fragrance, when put together become a powerhouse that projects all day long in a way that is unisexual, tinging on bitter truffle masculine.
7. Ajmal My Wonder + Al Haramain Junoon: The opulence of the amber of Wonder and powder of Junoon form something quite powerful in this combination. I dare say, it should be treated with a light hand lest it overwhelm you and others fortunate yet made unfortunate to be within close confines of you.
8. Khadlaj Special Occasion + Lattafa Velvet Oud: Perhaps my favourite combination on the list. A green floral blend that took on an oakmoss-patchouli stance without merging or either note being defeated from opening to dry down.
That's all. Any thoughts? Any combinations that work well for you?