What does Frangipani smell like?
Frangipani smells like a white flower dipped in cream. Think jasmine, only rounder and fruitier. There is apricot and some peach, over a base that recalls coconut and sun cream. It lacks the indolic, slightly animalic side of tuberose. On skin it stays soft and lasts reasonably well. It feels cheerful, never serious.
Origin and production
Frangipani belongs to the Plumeria genus and comes from Central America and the Caribbean. It spread throughout the tropics, from Southeast Asia to Hawaii, where the flowers are used in leis. An absolute exists but is rare and costly. Most perfumes rebuild the flower with benzyl salicylate, lactones and jasmine notes. The name is said to come from an Italian noble family, the Frangipani.
How perfumers use it
Frangipani pairs with other white flowers, vanilla and sandalwood. It often lends a sunny warmth to a bouquet. Parfums de Marly Cassili pairs it with plum and vanilla. Kenzo Amour turns it into a soft flower over powdery rice. Chanel Beige, from Les Exclusifs, blends it with hawthorn and honey. Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia uses it to soften gardenia.
How to wear it
Frangipani is for summer on tanned skin. Two sprays of Kenzo Amour are enough. Cassili is sweeter and better on autumn evenings.