Essence (2009)
by Narciso Rodriguez

I'm not usually one for soapy, clean fragrances, however Essence by Narciso Rodriguez is more than just pleasant, it's lovely.

One reviewer termed this fragrance the 'laundry queen'. While the scent does remind me of crisp, white linen, this scent is not overly sharp, laundry detergent or anything like nose-burning soap.

The floral notes are what balances out this fragrance. The rose and iris notes take on an almost powdery quality which compliments the rich, soapy scent well. Essence is very pure in a way. Innocent, delicate and refreshing.

There is a tiny touch of sweetness towards the drydown which reminds me that Essence is more than just clean sheets swaying in the breeze. This fragrance although not overly complex, is enough to capture me with its musky charm.

The lasting power is very good and the sillage rather average, but certainly not soft, it has a presence. I find this fragrance far more superior than Narciso Rodriguez for Her, which I found disappointing to say the least.

4th September, 2011.

Nice musk scent but the longevity is ridiculous...

It must have been designed for babies, toddlers, children and teenagers with a very acute sense of smell.

Neutral thumbs...!

1st April, 2011.

Disappeared almost immediately, even with a double spray to the wrist. However, I enjoyed what I did smell... juicy but unobtrusive citrus opening, dries down to a good musk. The lack of lasting power means there's no way I'd buy a bottle though.

21st March, 2011.

I don't know why, but this fragrance is very relaxing.

This smell like a ultra watery version of Paris by Yves saint Laurent without the green notes.

Essence is a delicate powdery breeze very feminine with beautiful Rose notes. I really think it takes some time to really appreciate this scent.

26th January, 2011.

I don´t like all NRfH-scents, just For Her EdP and now also the Essence EdP Intense musc collection. These two are very different, but both suits me very well. No one of the others comes out well on my skin... Odd... Usually one likes many of a particular perfume-huse´s scents, or one doas not like them. Well, I am happy to be able to wear at least two of Rodriguse perfumes! Essense EdP Intese musc collection is very gentle, and very, very elegant! It is probably coming out the best during summer!

10th April, 2011: Now Essence eau de musk is released, and it is possible to get in a small bottle, 40 ml I guess! All the other NR-perfumes are in big bottles! Essence eau de musk is also for my skin, and the small bottle is for my handbag, so now this one is also mine!

1st January, 2011. (Last Edited: 10th April, 2011.)

I was given this for Christmas and upon opening I was overwhelmed by such a strong masculine fragrance. I do like and often wear mens fragrance but this perfume to my nose really did smell like a nasty supermarket budget toiletry.
To be polite I sprayed it once and once was all I needed for this to linger on my skin and clothing for quite a long time. Even after laundering my clothes still smelt.

Oh dear.

8th May, 2010.