Ever since Alessandro Michele was appointed Creative Director of Gucci, I’ve been completely and utterly obsessed with the brand’s new fragrances. Not only do they smell amazing, but I find Gucci’s approach to perfume so unique and disruptive. Mr. Michele’s vision for perfume really transports us into a dreamy, whimsical and imaginative world. It’s both modern and traditional, with an undeniable vintage and retro feel to it. He revisits and redefines traditional ingredients used in perfumery as well as classic compositions such as the fougere and cologne. But most importantly, this new vision breaks free from the conventional rules of perfume marketing.
To support the launch of Gucci Bloom Acqua di Fiori, Gucci collaborated with 15 female artists to explore the themes behind the fragrance. Each artist drew or painted an image that represented the way they perceived or felt about the perfume. This was the brand’s first major instagram-focused beauty campaign.
To my knowledge, Gucci is the first designer brand to really explore the connection between scent and emotions in the most personal way. And, it’s probably the first brand ever to express this concept in the digital space. Gucci really puts forward the idea that everyone experiences fragrance in a different way, as it triggers emotions that are unique to each individual. It’s ok to voice different opinions, and that’s the beauty in experiencing a scent. This approach is truly a breath of fresh air amongst all the clutter and advertising.
Given my interest in the Gucci Bloom Acqua di Fiori’s advertising, I wanted to experience this perfume for myself. Now, that’s telling a lot about the campaign. I loath green notes and in particular galbanum, but I decided to go into store to try this perfume anyway. Let me tell you, if there’s one brand that can make me like green perfumes, it’s Gucci. I was so pleasantly surprised when I smelled this scent for the first time. I was expecting a very earthy and bitter galbanum note, but couldn’t be more wrong. It’s a beautiful light green note that’s mixed with a touch of sweetness and sheer florals. It’s very wearable and is a safe bet if you’re thinking of dipping your toes into the green olfactive territory.
Key Notes
Top: Blackcurrant buds, galbanum
Heart: Jasmine, rangoon creeper, tuberose
Base: Musk, sandalwood
Olfactive Classification: Floral Green
What to Expect
Gucci Bloom Acqua di Fiori opens with a beautiful fresh and dewy green note. It’s reminiscent of water droplets gently resting on a bed of dark green leaves. The galbanum note in this perfume is soft and sheer, and reveals the freshness and purity of springtime. As it shines through, it meets with the sweet tartness of blackcurrant. This unexpected fruity green accord imparts a crushed berry effect mixed with leaves. Your hands are now stained with a deep purple color. A most agreeable encounter between blackcurrant and galbanum.
As the perfume continues to develop, a delicate white floral heart adds a layer of transparency, and smoothes the green tones. It’s like a beam of light shining through the purest of crystals. Finally, a layer of musk wraps around the composition for a soft and luminous finish.
My Olfactive Journey
Each olfactive journey is completely unique and can be experienced in a multitude of ways. So far, the perfumes I’ve reviewed had a clear story with a beginning, middle and end. But sometimes, it’s not that straight forward and clear cut. When you smell a perfume, your mind may wonder off and go in all directions. That’s what happens to me when I smell Gucci Bloom Acqua di Fiori.
Gucci Bloom Acqua di Fiori takes me on a journey of different impressions, effects and feelings rather than drawing me to a specific, tangible place.
The very first impression is being surrounded by all sorts of green vegetation. Dewy dark green leaves, grass and weeds come together to form a watery greenness.
This greenery is delicate, light and fresh. Just like a soft breeze.
The first hints of colour are marked by the entrance of blackcurrant. A naughty little treat that forms a beautiful spectrum of violet.
Sheer florals announce the arrival of spring and new beginnings. The use of the word ‘bloom’ in this fragrance couldn’t be more appropriate. A symphony of white flowers with hints of purple and pink bring on a feeling of blooming femininity.
Gucci Bloom Acqua di Fiori undeniably radiates an impression of light and transparency.
The contrasting green and purple facets in this perfume bring out a certain wildness. It’s enchanting and has a retro feel to it.
The sum of these impressions paint a beautiful and enchanting green portrait with pops of colour, water and light.
Outfits & Accessories
Dresses: Zara, Mango
Jewellery: Wesselton, Eva Krystal, Cartier
Beauty
Face: Lumene Invisible Illumination Instant Glow Fresh Skin Tint in shade Universal Dark, Tom Ford Bronzing Powder in 01 Gold Dust, Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Flawless Concealer in 2C Light Medium, Lumene Invisible Illumination Nordic Glow Palette
Eyes: NYX Love You So Much Mochi Eyeshadow Palette, Benefit Roller Lash Mascara in Black, Estée Lauder Brow Now Brow Defining Pencil in 02 Light Brunette
Lips: Estée Lauder Pure Color Love in 440 Hi-Voltage
Nails: Kiko Milano Smart Fast Dry Nail Lacquer in 160
Disclaimer
Sample, images and views are my own.