by Rance 1795
Josephine is a highly intricate, vintage-inspired floral chypre with a complex interplay of green, powdery, woody, and ambery notes. It opens with a sharp, bitter-green burst dominated by galbanum, violet leaf, and hawthorn, which some find sour or medicinal, particularly on sensitive skin. Over time, it evolves into a soft, powdery floral heart with hyacinth, iris, and jasmine, balanced by a subtle vanillic amber and coconut musk base. The scent is extremely feminine, elegant, and deeply atmospheric—reminiscent of Lancôme Miracle or Guerlain’s L'Instant—yet it leans into chypre territory with mossy, leather-like undertones. Its performance is moderate to long-lasting, though perceived longevity varies widely, with some finding it fleeting, while others describe it as silky and tenacious, especially in cooler weather. The sillage is moderate to strong, often following close to skin, but some report it fading quickly or suffering from chemical skin tones on certain individuals. The fragrance’s true character often reveals itself only after several hours, when the green bitterness mellows into a warm, ambery, powdery cloud with a soft, radiant dry down. It’s best enjoyed in spring and autumn, especially on cooler days or at night.