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Oriental Pearl
by Shanghai Tang
Oriental Pearl by Shanghai Tang is a bold, dry oriental with a complex interplay of amber, patchouli, labdanum, and warm spices. It delivers a dense, resinous character that feels both incense-rich and slightly medicinal, with a dry, almost bitter edge in the dry down. Many note the absence of vanilla despite its sweetly gourmand impression, which some attribute to a lactonic or cooked vanilla effect in the dry down. The scent is notably long-lasting and wears close to the skin, with moderate to strong sillage, making it ideal for evening wear or winter seasons. It evokes strong reactions—some describe it as profound and elegant, while others find it cloying or unbalanced. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy intense patchouli-forward scents with a dry, spiced amber base, especially those familiar with opulent orientals like Coromandel or Serge Lutens. The perfume feels well-crafted and distinctive, but its intense character makes it a challenging choice for sensitive or general audiences.
Pros
- +It has excellent longevity and holds well for hours without fading.
- +Its unique, dry, aromatic profile makes it stand out among heavy patchouli scents.
- +The resinous amber and labdanum balance the patchouli without sweetening it excessively.
Cons
- −It can feel cloying, bitter, or chemically sharp to some, especially on first wear.
- −The scent is intense and close to the skin, which may overwhelm sensitive individuals.
- −It's divisive and not universally appealing, particularly for those seeking subtlety or floral notes.