Our take
What does Nuit de Cellophane smell like?
Nuit de Cellophane joined the Serge Lutens export collection in early 2009. Christopher Sheldrake built it around osmanthus, the Chinese flower that smells of dried apricot and tea. Almond and a spicy carnation give the opening a small warmth, close to cinnamon. Osmanthus follows, fruity and honeyed. On skin, the apricot facet is what lingers longest. Jasmine and lily then make the heart creamy, like a white bouquet set next to a fruit bowl. You won't find any night here, or any crinkled cellophane. The name promised something else, which is a little frustrating. The base is pale musk with a sheer sandalwood. It's well made and very wearable. Still, it lacks depth, and that's the most common complaint. For a high-end osmanthus, Ormonde Jayne's Osmanthus stays brighter and more elegant. The Lutens version is rounder and easier.
When to wear it
A spring or autumn floral that suits the office. You'll need three sprays, since longevity is only average.
It belongs to the Floral family. Nuit de Cellophane is one of 31 creations by Serge Lutens in our encyclopedia.
