by Elie Saab
Nuit Noor by Elie Saab is a bold, opulent oriental fragrance with a duality in experience—some perceive it as a dark, smoldering incense and patchouli-heavy composition akin to Black Orchid, while others find it overwhelmingly sweet and sunny due to prominent honey, ylang-ylang, and solar notes. The opening features a striking blend of black pepper, incense, and woodsy accords, delivering a powerful, almost aggressive projection that lingers strongly throughout the night. Over time, the honey and floral facets soften the initial intensity, resulting in a warm, ambery drydown with a velvety, spicy depth. It’s widely praised for its exceptional longevity, often lasting through showering and remaining noticeable for hours even after application. The fragrance’s sillage is substantial, projecting strongly in intimate and moderate spaces, making it ideal for evening wear during colder months. While some describe it as unisex, the majority of reviews associate it with evening wear and winter, and it is particularly favored by those who appreciate dark, gourmand oriental scents with a modern twist. Its sweet honey notes are divisive: some find them harmonious and luminous, while others see them as cloying or overwhelming, depending on individual olfactory sensitivity. The overall impression remains that this is a highly personal fragrance—unpredictable in how it unfolds on different skin chemistries, and best experienced by wearing it first before committing to purchase. It’s not for the faint of heart, but for those who embrace drama, mystery, and performance, Nuit Noor feels legendary.