Our take
What does Rose 31 smell like?
Composed by Daphné Bugey and released in 2006 among Le Labo’s first references, Rose 31 set out to pull the rose out of its purely feminine register. The flower is present from the opening but is immediately jostled by cumin, slightly sweaty and spiced, and a dry pepper. The heart is woody and resinous: cedar, smoky guaiac wood and amber-tinged cistus wrap the rose in warm shadow. Vetiver, amber and musk in the base extend that impression of skin and wood, almost animalic. The result is a dry, spiced, carnal rose that did much to make the flower desirable for every gender.
When to wear it
Wear it in transitional seasons, day or night. It suits those who want a rose with character rather than a bouquet.
It belongs to the Floral, Woody family. Rose 31 is one of 4 creations by Le Labo in our encyclopedia.