by Illuminum
White Gardenia Petals is a refined, feminine floral with a radiant yet restrained character. It opens with a crisp, slightly citrusy freshness from bergamot and cassis, quickly giving way to a bright, airy bouquet of white flowers—gardenia, jasmine, lily-of-the-valley—interwoven with a subtle green accord. The core is a clean, almost crystal-clear rendition of gardenia, enhanced by a delicate, creamy-kissed sandalwood and ambery base. Some note it as subtly sweet or milked by the kohi-like creaminess, but overall the character remains cool, restrained, and elegantly poised. It is noted for its lack of drama—it doesn’t flamboyantly announce itself, but rather unfolds quietly, like a floral veil drifting across warm skin. It shows best on cooler skin, where it remains lively and airy; on warmer skin, it tends to flatten and become less distinct. The scent is discreet but lingers with moderate tenacity, typically fading within a day. Despite its proclaimed sturdiness, longevity is inconsistent across users, and some report it becomes mostly inaudible after a few hours. Overall, it evokes a sense of quiet nobility—like the aura of a prim, sincere woman in 19th-century style, where elegance is worn with grace, not flair. It’s fine for spring and early summer, though unisex appeal is nonexistent. It’s often described as the “aroma of a princess” when someone is looking for poise and reserved beauty, and its nameless allure lies in its soft, noble articulation of white flowers, not boldness or heat.