Our take
What does Vanilla 28 smell like?
Vanilla 28 arrived in November 2018 alongside the launch of Kayali itself, the brand founded by Mona Kattan, and no individual perfumer has ever been credited. The opening is softer and more floral than the name suggests: vanilla orchid and a creamy jasmine, milky rather than heady. Vanilla then settles in layers. First a round infusion, then a denser and more concentrated note. Tonka bean adds its almond-and-hay nuance. The base leans fully into dessert. Brown sugar reads like muscovado melting on custard, musk smooths the edges and a quiet patchouli keeps the whole thing from collapsing into pure confectionery. Amber woods give it staying power without any dryness. This is a pastry chef’s vanilla rather than the smoky, woody vanillas of niche houses, and that is exactly why its fans love it.
When to wear it
Cold weather, evenings and weekends; two sprays on a wool scarf will last for hours. Made for people who like their gourmands properly sweet.
It belongs to the Oriental / Amber family. Vanilla 28 is one of 1 creations by Kayali in our encyclopedia.
