by Orto Parisi
Megamare by Orto Parisi is a profoundly polarizing aquatic fragrance that operates on a beast mode level of intensity, performance, and presence. It is not a conventional fresh aquatic scent, but rather a dark, salty, and animalic interpretation of the sea—more akin to the depths of a storm-wracked ocean than a sun-dappled beach. It opens with a sharp, chemically briny burst reminiscent of wet salt crusts, seaweed, and metallic mineral notes. Over time, it transforms into a deeply musky, creamy, and slightly sweet marine accord, with hints of ambergris, ambroxan, and dry woody notes that echo like driftwood in a tide pool. The scent is not light or airy; it is massive, dominant, and persistent—projecting with enormous sillage even at a single spray, and clinging to skin and fabrics for well over 24 hours, even after showering. Longevity is legendary: many report it still lingers on clothing days after use, and some describe the scent as being detectable even weeks later on fabric. The experience is immersive and transformative, often described as being like stepping into a storm-tossed sea, an olfactory journey that is both overwhelming and captivating. Many find it repellent due to its synthetic intensity and aggressiveness, while others describe it as deeply profound, sexy, and unique. The fragrance is unapologetically masculine, though the unisex vote reflects some willingness to embrace it as a daring choice. It's not for the faint of heart or those seeking a demure, clean, or wearable-perfectly-well scent. It demands a high tolerance for intensity and is best suited for open-air outdoor occasions, warm weather, and those with bold personal style. While some view it as art or a sensory masterpiece, others see it as excessive and harmful to air quality. Despite its reception, it is not just performance—it is a statement, a presence that refuses to be ignored.