Our take
What does Illicit Flower smell like?
In 2016 Jimmy Choo spun its Illicit into this floral version, lighter and fruitier than the original. Apricot leads. It is ripe and slightly velvety, backed by mandarin and a freesia that smells of fine soap. The heart brings rose, jasmine and grapefruit blossom. That last flower adds a green, faintly bitter edge, which keeps the bouquet from turning into candy. Musk and sandalwood hold the base, with cashmeran adding a felted texture. After an hour you mostly smell clean skin with a hint of fruit. Nothing here is dark or heady. It is a daytime fruity floral with no pretensions. Set it beside Chloé Eau de Parfum, another pale rose that was everywhere in those years, and Illicit Flower comes across sweeter and less powdery. It is not chasing sophistication. Longevity is average at around four hours, and the trail stays close.
When to wear it
Made for spring weekends or a summer day in town. Three sprays on wrists and neck, with a top-up in the afternoon.
It belongs to the Floral, Fruity family. Illicit Flower is one of 7 creations by Jimmy Choo in our encyclopedia.
