Lavender Thorne
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Pleasures
by Estée Lauder
Pleasures by Estée Lauder is a classic, fresh floral with green and melodic white notes that evoke a dewy spring garden. It features a crisp opening with green notes and a hint of pink pepper that quickly softens into a luscious bouquet of lily-of-the-valley, peony, lilac, violet, rose, and jasmine. The composition is light and transparent, with structure derived from musk, cedar, and sandalwood, creating an airy, clean, and soothing effect. The scent becomes more subtly powdery and faintly musky in the dry-down, offering moderate longevity and a not overly projecting sillage. It's best worn in spring and summer for daytime use, aligning with its airy blue-green floral tone, and is especially effective when the wearer desires a fresh, classy, and timeless feeling. The fragrance appeals to those drawn to honest, non-sensational floral perfumes and those nostalgic for the clean elegance of 1990s fashion, though some find its intensity overwhelming, so it's best approached with caution. Despite its reputation as an old-fashioned, maternal scent, its appeal to a wide audience stems from its simple, refined elegance that feels timeless, even if it requires a bit of patience to appreciate fully. Many describe it as a personal signature or an emotional anchor, unlike many others that are more declarative in their scent language.
Pros
- +A fresh, clean floral middle note gives it a timeless elegance, making it suitable for a wide age range and ideal for daytime wear in spring and summer.
- +Compares favorably to other classics like White Linen and Miracle, with a notable balance of natural and airy elements that make it stand out from conventional florals.
- +A strong personal connection for many, often tied to youth, memories, or simple aesthetic beauty, making it a beloved staple for fans of classic, unwavering elegance.
Cons
- −Can be overwhelming or irritating to sensitive noses due to its sharp green and soapy opening, especially in high doses.
- −Contains a bitter green note (including pepper and geranium) that may be aversive to those who dislike sharp or herbal complexity.
- −Some users note significant individual variation, with the scent becoming less appealing or even unpleasant over time, especially in colder weather or on certain skin chemistries.