by Van Cleef & Arpels
Orchid Leather by Van Cleef & Arpels is a rich, opulent gourmand scent that unfolds like a velvety drama in three acts. The opening bursts with a plummy, boozy sweetness, layered with smoky incense and a hint of earthy labdanum, creating a deep, resinous warmth. This transforms into a soft, plush leather note—never harsh or dominant—woven through with warm vanilla and cardamom, giving it a sweet-spicy depth that lingers beautifully. The dry-down is creamy and slightly boozy, like aged plum and vanilla kissed by flame, with a persistent benzoin-like warmth that clings to skin and fabric for hours. It’s a fragrance best suited for cool weather and nighttime wear, projecting with moderate-to-strong sillage that can dominate a room. While the leather note is present, it never arrives in a bold or aggressive way. Instead, it plays as a supporting layer, like soft leather thoughts beneath a sweet incense cloak. The scent wears as a sensual, luxurious statement—one that is unabashedly rich, appealing, and unapologetically bold. It leans slightly feminine due to its rounded sweetness, though its unisex claim is solid. The perfume possesses incredible longevity and diffusion, making it ideal for special occasions, emotional moments, or when you want to leave a powerful, unforgettable impression.