Our take
What does Silences smell like?
Jacomo launched Silences in 1978. Sources credit Gérard Goupy working with Jean-Claude Niel, at a time when green chypres were having their moment. Galbanum strikes without warning, sharp and nearly bitter. Green notes surround it along with bergamot and lemon, plus a little orange blossom. The effect is a stem snapped between your fingers. The flowers in the heart stay cool. Iris and rose join lily of the valley and hyacinth in a slightly metallic bouquet. Jasmine sits further back. The base turns dry and powdery. Moss, cedar and sandalwood suggest lichen, softened by musk. Comparisons with Chanel No. 19, released in 1970, come up constantly. Silences is a bit warmer at the base and less aloof. Some have called it a poor man's No. 19. That's unfair, because it has an austerity of its own.
When to wear it
For the office in spring or a cool autumn day. One spray per wrist, as galbanum carries a long way.
It belongs to the Chypre, Green family. Silences is one of 2 creations by Jacomo in our encyclopedia.