Vicolo Fiori (1996)
by Etro

Top notes: Tangerine, Bellflower, Lily of Water
Middle notes: Lotus, Jasmine, Cyclamen, Fruity Notes
Base note: Ylang, Musks, Wood, Amber

I just don’t know how to wrap my mind around this floral fragrance. It’s traditionally structured and intentionally old fashioned, yet it’s modernly synthetic: It is a bit surreal and a bit Victorian flower shop. Within the core of its abundant floral structure there is a captivating elemental floral uniqueness that is almost out of place: I believe it is the lotus that takes center stage in this accord, and I find its use enjoyable. The first two pyramid levels last a couple of hours before the fragrance turns to its musky, ambry dry down – which is so very traditional. It’s a pretty fragrance – not beautiful – it’s a bit gaudy, and more than a bit synthetic. It holds my interest with this note or that... but it just feels so interiorly conflicted that I feel rather sorry for it, like for a friend who is obviously going through a period of confusion. It’s either a work of art that I am not understanding or else it’s … well, I’ll just say it’s a pleasant fragrance.

Very different...for my nose I perceive a green, lemony rose. It also smells wet. Strangely, it took a few wearings for me to decide that I like it...but it's just not a frag for me.

This is an extremely pleasant and relaxing floral fragrance without any screechy overtones so many
floral blends have. I wear this quite happily during the day. I don't quite understand quite how it
is perceived as girly a scent. It doesn' t smell exclusively girly on me (or to me) anymore than Habit Rouge , Hammam Bouquet, or Rose d'Homme do--All of which are much stronger, deeper florals.
I already have the small bottle- I'm going to get the largest one when this runs out( which will be soon)!

I have never worn VdF, but I have given it to two women who wear it for me, and it is so charming. It doesn't really break any new ground, but it is balanced and nice. I don't get a synthetic feel, however, it is cooler than most florals I have sniffed and a bit linear. It is classy but simple.

An intriguing "wet" floral that would be charming for a young woman. Yet on my skin Etro once again strikes out with an ominous synthetic note that prevented me from truly enjoying it.