by Issey Miyake
L'Eau d'Issey pour Homme Shade of Lagoon is a transparent, modern take on the classic Issey Miyake L'Eau d'Issey, designed for warm weather and daytime wear. It opens with a vibrant blend of citrus—grapefruit, lime, and cardamom—giving a zesty, slightly tart premise, soon followed by crisp, marine-tinged green notes and a woody cypress backbone. The heart reveals a balanced aquatic accord with a subtle geranium and galbanum presence, evoking a sea breeze without being overly melon or cucumber-scented. The base is dominated by a gentle, natural-feeling ambroxan that adds warmth and cohesion without dominating, alongside light cedar, vetiver, and a soft musk, creating a refined, slightly salty-sweet finish. It's fresher and more linear than most flankers, with a delicate but persistent presence throughout its wear. While not transformative or revolutionary, it successfully reimagines the original DNA with a more minimal, aquatic twist and performs well enough for a summer cologne with modest sillage and decent longevity for its type. The scent feels both familiar and updated—a clean, airy, and quietly engaging fragrance that appeals to those who appreciate the original Issey Miyake but seek something slightly lighter and more modern for seasonal wear.