Fashion’s favourite shade has become the biggest trend in fragrance this season with black being referenced in everything from ingredients and packaging (a major selling point for scent) to the colour of the ‘jus’ itself.
Inspiration comes in many guises – Coco Chanel’s love of Venice (she’s pictured holidaying there in 1936) was the starting point in the third scent in the Coco fragrance line. Noir is a darkly sophisticated melange of sensory florals, musks and patchouli. €92
A new twist on the classic Bulgari scent, Mon Jasmin Noir L’Elixir is a light feminine scent with pomelo and almond complimenting the jasmine base . The atomiser spray flacon brings a touch of retro glamour to the dressing table. €90
Serge Lutens Datura Noir €93.50 Rich and aromatic, this blend from cult perfumier Lutens mixes notes of myrrh, bitter almond and tuberose with a heart of ‘Angel Trumpet’ flowers. Mysteriously glamourous but not for the fainthearted. At House of Fraser
The fourth fragrance in a collection evoking exotic locations, Armani’s Cuir Noir is a heady scent inspired by the romance of Arabian nights and the smooth velvety softness of leather. Distinctive and decadent. €208.50 at Brown Thomas
Celebrity fragrances are 10 a penny and usually forgettable but trust Lady Gaga to buck the trend with Fame, a black inky fluid which turns transparent when sprayed, and is not half as gaga as you might imagine. €69
On the lighter side of black, Jo Malone’s Blackberry and Bay is a green mossy cologne with fresh vetiver and cedarwood. €46
If you’re looking for something different, Tom Ford’s Noir might fit the bill. Although marketed as a men’s fragrance, I’ve noted fellow beauty writers (myself included) have not been able to share it with their better halves and are wearing it themselves. Like all of Ford’s fragrances, it makes a strong statement with a complex list of ingredients and a bit of animal magic in the base notes. €72
Feminine florals and sparkling top notes characterise Boss Nuit Pour Femme, a soft and elegant scent with a creamy sandalwood base. Prices from €40
Givenchy’s Dahlia Noir is a modern woody floral with rose, iris and mimosa tempered with patchouli and tonka bean with a warm powdery finish. €58
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