Fantasia Mermaid

Fantasia Mermaid by Anna Sui is a bold, summery fragrance that leans into a bright, paradoxical blend of sweet, salty, and slightly synthetic notes. It opens with a sharp burst of citrus—blood orange and mandarin—woven with cardamom’s spiciness, creating an intense, almost volatile top. The scent quickly evolves into a complex, skin-hugging floral and woody composition with honey, vanilla, and white wood adding warmth and depth. Despite sparse aquatic notes, many describe it as evoking sea air, salt-stained skin, or a tropical beach after a swim, suggesting a watery, slightly musky core that many find unusual or polarizing. While it lacks a clear 'aquatic' identity, its performance is notably strong—lasting several hours with a moderate to strong sillage—and it resonates more for those drawn to whimsical, quirky, or unexpectedly beachy scents rather than traditional perfumes. It’s not for everyone, and some find its sharpness, metallic or soapy undertones, and persistent synthetic quality overwhelming or unpleasant. Others, however, praise its uniqueness, likening it to a fresh, fizzy take on a mermaid’s skin or a coral reef breeze, and appreciate its affordability, novelty, and refreshing wearability during warm weather.