by Le Labo
Another 13 from Le Labo is a highly polarizing, minimalist fragrance designed to mimic the scent of the wearer's skin amplified and refined. It is best described as a clean, subtly animalic musk with a faint sweet-woodiness, reminiscent of crisp magazine pages, clean linen, or the warm belly of a groomed kitten. The initial impression upon spraying is often a sharp, sterile alcohol note, which transitions into a complex layered drydown dominated by Iso E Super, ambergris, and a musky-citrus base. For many, the scent develops gradually over several hours, revealing a soft, skin-like layer that feels intimate and modern without being overtly sweet or dramatic. It is frequently described as unisex, with strong sillage close to the skin, moderate projection, and remarkable longevity—often lasting the entire day or even through multiple washes of clothing. Through multiple reviews, the perfumer’s intent is clear: the fragrance is less about perfumery and more about self-discovery and aura. It functions as a scent booster, transforming the wearer’s body chemistry into something uniquely defined—something that may inspire a compliment or a curious glance. The experience is deeply subjective: some find it divine, addictive, and impeccably wearable, while others report no smell at all or find it unpleasantly medicinal, synthetic, or even animalic, reminiscent of hospital bint. The effect is so transformative that some wearers become anosmic to their own scent, experiencing noseblindness after a few hours. Its most consistent pros are its signature, subtle, wearable elegance, outstanding longevity, and ability to command attention—even when stealthily worn. However, its niche appeal is also a key drawback: it can alienate sensitivities to synthesizers like ambroxan or Iso E Super, and high price points are consistently criticized despite widespread praise for its performance and minimalism.