by Ne'emah For Fragrance & Oudh
Laya presents a richly layered vanilla-woody gourmand fragrance with a core of sweet agarwood (oud) and warm musky undertones, evoking a luxurious, velvety vanilla cream with subtle incense-like depth. The opening features a pronounced, creamy vanilla note intertwined with cedar, creating a bold yet smooth impression. While some describe a powdery softness, others emphasize the fragrance's strength, with a strong, long-lasting sillage that lingers effectively through the day and into the night. Its composition balances sweetness with dry, woody notes, making it particularly suitable for cooler weather. The scent is perceived as deeply sensual and inviting, inspiring numerous compliments and a sense of mystery—a signature fragrance for those drawn to opulent, intimate scents. Most consistently, it’s praised for its extravagant longevity, which some describe as nearly eternal, especially on skin and clothing. Many note that its generous projection makes it a room-filling presence, while others find it overwhelming under certain conditions. It stands out as a uniquely wearable oud-centered perfume by replacing the typical floral or incense-centric profiles with a rounded, creamy vanilla base. While comparisons are frequent—especially to Roses Vanille by Mancera, Midnight Shimmer by Michael Kors, and Mercedes Club Black—Laya is widely seen as a more refined, less fruity, and more lush interpretation that is particularly appreciated for its lasting effect and unique character.