Our Creation of Byredo's Bal d'Afrique

I wanted to like this fragrance, as it has so many notes that usually work for me, especially marigold/targets and vetiver. The first moments, when the citrus still sparkles, are really the only time I don't feel tempted to scrub it off -- though the longevity is impressive.

It's smell like Mediterranean freshie with marigold in the center. Bright, cozy, invigorating and a little bit earthy thanks to vetiver.

Captivating citrus - woody - floral scent. Very addictive and unique smelling. Perfect for warmer weather, not in intense heat though. Longevity is decent. 9/10.

Sweet, very musky, and berries. Smells just like björk&berries White Forest. (Now does the scent remind me of anything remotely african or remotely scandinavian ? Not even the slightest little bit. ). Amazing what marketing does.

Fresh lemon juice and true tagetes/marigold scent are the first note and carry all the way through the drydown for me. When the violet and Jasmin surface, the scent softens and rounds out like a breeze wafting by. The vetiver and cedar are prominent in the base, with a sweetness that's 'familiar' like vanilla (even though that note isn't listed). At the end of the day (6-7hrs), the cedar and lingering lemon give a pink pepper-like sharpness that's really pleasant. I can see why this is a favorite of the house, it has better longevity than the others and doesn't have any notes that are 'wild'. If you don't like tagetes/marigold (or have never smelled them) then this scent could definitely come across as 'older' - not like tuberose or damask rose, but like the lady selling lemon bars and funky jewelry at the flea market.