by John Varvatos
XX Artisan Teal is a light, refreshing fragrance with a clean citrus and aquatic character. It opens with bright lemon and rosemary, offering a crisp, herbal freshness that evokes summer days by the sea. Midnotes of pink pepper and water lily add a subtle spicy sweetness, while the base notes of driftwood, musk, and sea salt create a soft, airy continuation that feels both grounded and ephemeral. The scent carries a subtle sweetness, reminiscent of elegant body wash or shampoo, with a watery, salty clarity that feels modern and casual. It's among the most unisex in the line, especially appealing in spring and summer, with moderate sillage and a gentle presence that lingers on skin and clothing. Many reviewers note it closely resembles classic aquatic fragrances like YSL Y EDP or Nautica from the 1990s, though some find its profile more nuanced and less similar to YSL than others suggest. The fragrance is praised for its elegant design and wearable character, but consistently suffers from low longevity and modest projection, often requiring application to clothing to extend wear. It's ideal for warm weather, office settings, or casual outings, where a subtle, airy scent is preferred over something bold or long-lasting.