Our take
What does Orchid Soleil smell like?
Tom Ford released Orchid Soleil in 2016 as a sunny take on Black Orchid, its 2006 best seller. The perfumer has not been disclosed. It opens on bigarade, the bitter orange with a sharp peel, backed by pink pepper and a green cypress that adds some air. The heart is white and floral. Creamy tuberose dominates, alongside red spider lily and a stylized orchid. The base is the most debated part. Vanilla, patchouli and a chestnut cream create a floury pastry smell that some people compare to corn tortilla. You'll either love it or hate it. Compared with Black Orchid, dark and earthy with its truffle, Orchid Soleil is brighter and more gourmand. They share the orchid name and little else. The perfume divides opinion, which is usually a good sign.
When to wear it
For a summer dinner or a warm evening out. Two sprays, and the tuberose projects strongly for hours.
It belongs to the Floral, Oriental / Amber family. Orchid Soleil is one of 33 creations by Tom Ford in our encyclopedia.
