by Elie Saab
Girl of Now by Elie Saab is a highly sweet, nutty gourmand fragrance that unfolds in layers of almond, pistachio, and orange blossom. It begins with a bold, creamy burst of almond and pistachio, enhanced by pear and mandarin notes, creating an intensely edible, dessert-like aroma. As it settles, the sweetness deepens with the addition of smooth vanilla, tonka bean, and cashmeran, giving it a warm, velvety core. The dry-down reveals a slightly woody, powdered texture with patchouli adding structure, though some users find this earthy element overwhelming or synthetic in their skin chemistry. It is most appreciated in colder months, offering strong projection and excellent longevity, lasting up to 10 hours on some, especially on clothing. The perfume is universally beloved by gourmand lovers for its comforting, cozy warmth and elegant blend of sweet, floral, and nutty notes. The bottle is praised as beautiful, adding to the allure for fans of visual design. However, the fragrance is not without its detractors. A few users find the initial sweetness too aggressive, describing it as cloying, synthetic, or even headache-inducing due to its heavy notes of almond and sweet fruit. Others note the patchouli dominates in drydown, shifting the scent into a more earthy, mossy profile that some find unappealing or incompatible with their personal chemistry. The fragrance’s popularity is tied to its resemblance to La Vie Est Belle and Black Opium, though many see it as a softer, more refined interpretation with a distinct pistachio accent. Overall, Girl of Now is ideal for those who adore deeply sweet, creamy, nutty perfumes and want a signature scent with strong presence. It excels as a winter or chilly weather fragrance, offering comfort, sophistication, and strong attention. It is less suited for warm climates, sensitive skin, or those averse to heavy sweetness or synthetic notes.