Our take
What does Emporio Armani Lui smell like?
Emporio Armani Lui came out in 1998 as part of Giorgio Armani's younger, more urban line. Some markets sell the same bottle as He. Perfumer credits differ from one source to the next, so we won't pick one. The opening is crisp. Yuzu and bergamot lead, joined by a slightly soapy sage and a touch of cardamom, while a pale apple softens the start. The heart turns to dry spice. Nutmeg is in charge, with orris root adding a powdery, almost cosmetic texture. Rose and jasmine stay in the background. Sandalwood and cedar settle the base, helped by a little oakmoss and a quiet tonka bean. Musk closes things without fuss. Put it next to Acqua di Giò, launched by the same designer two years earlier, and Lui comes across as less marine and more woody. It smells more like a pressed shirt than like wet skin.
When to wear it
An unpretentious office scent for spring or a mild autumn day. Use three sprays on the chest, since longevity is only average.
It belongs to the Woody, Aromatic family. Emporio Armani Lui is one of 46 creations by Giorgio Armani in our encyclopedia.
