The story of Kayali
Mona Kattan first made her name alongside her sisters, with whom she co-founded the makeup brand Huda Beauty. In November 2018 she launched Kayali, a brand devoted entirely to fragrance. Vanilla 28 was among the first releases. The core idea comes from Gulf habits, where people happily stack oils, musks and sprays to build a personal scent. Kayali took that gesture and sold it to Western buyers as layering. The faceted bottles and numbered names quickly became recognisable on social media. The brand is sold through selective retail, Sephora included. Vanilla 28 is still its anchor: a pastry-chef vanilla that has little in common with the smoky vanillas of niche houses. That choice is deliberate, and it found its audience.
An olfactory signature
Vanilla 28 sums up the Kayali look: a gourmand vanilla that makes no apology for being sweet. The opening is surprisingly floral, with vanilla orchid and creamy jasmine. Then the vanilla settles in, backed by tonka and its almond facet. The base melts brown sugar over musk, with a quiet patchouli that keeps it from becoming pure dessert. Amber woods add staying power without any dryness. It is miles from the woody vanillas of niche perfumery, and that is the point.
Which Kayali perfume to choose?
In our database Kayali is represented by Vanilla 28, a vanilla oriental in eau de parfum. It will please fans of sweet gourmands, especially in cold weather. Two sprays are enough, and on a wool scarf it lasts for hours. The brand encourages layering. A light musk on top makes it feel airier. For a less sugary, more resinous amber, try Serge Lutens Ambre Sultan. For a cocoa gourmand in the same sweet vein, Billie Eilish Eilish is a useful comparison.