Reviews of Laura Ashley No. 1 (1989)
by Laura Ashley

This was my signature fragrance for years. Romantic and very clean. Almost a hint of soap when first applied and then tons of floral on the skin. Fresh with only a very slightly green sense. The only thing that I have smelled that was somewhat similar is Waterford's Lismore, but Lismore smells much softer, less boldly English garden.

I love Laura Ashley No. 1 and was more than a little disappointed when I found out that it became discontinued. I wore it on my wedding day and was "locked in" to it if you know what I mean. But now I don't have to worry. I found a company called Martecci's Fine Fragrances and they have recreated the scent and now I amTHE HAPPIEST WOMAN in the world! And another good ting came of it, now along with their LAN1, I have several other wonderful perfumes to choose and that means I don't have fo feel as locked in if I don't want to.

This was the first perfume I ever owned. I received this as the "big" gift in my easter basket when I was 9 or 10 from my Grandma. It fits with everything else I associate with her. English gardens, Victorian houses, antique furniture... It makes me feel like Mary from "the secret garden" I have no idea where the bottle is.. It was lovely and possibly more beautiful than the scent inside. fainted floral vines on a clear glass with golden edges and writing, and a little crystal stopper! ::sigh::

(NOTE: The notes listed above and the date of the fragrance's launch are either inaccurate or refer to a different version of this fragrance. The book "Fabulous Fragrances II" also has this same information, so I have to conclude that there was a remake of Laura Ashley No. 1 in 1989. My review is for the mid-1980s version; I purchased my bottle in around 1985. Its notes are included in the review.)

One of my favorite floral chypres. Well blended, very reminiscent of an English garden with its subtle rose. Here's what the leaflet in the perfume box says:

"Laura Ashley No. 1: At the insistence of Bernard Ashley, only the very finest essences of Moroccan rose, Italian iris, and French jasmine are combined to give this fragrance a predominantly floral note--first impressions on spraying the skin are of fresh green jacinthe and delicate orange blossom. Aromatic, herbal tones, such as cedarwood, basil and cinnamon mix with this floral base providing a lasting but subtle perfume. Moss, oak and alpine lichens add a sweeter musky touch to this fresh, light and feminine scent."

This is indeed a slightly green, very fresh floral, not powdery in the least. The oak moss in its base warms it nicely without giving it too much sweetness. A lovely, very English scent. I'm so sorry they discontinued it.