Our take
What does White Suede smell like?
Tom Ford released White Suede in 2009 as part of the Private Blend line. It came out in a small white musk collection alongside Jasmine Musk and Urban Musk. The house has never named the perfumer. The opening is a little unexpected. Dry thyme and a tea note make it more herbal than floral at first. Lily of the valley follows with a quiet rose, and saffron runs underneath to give the heart a faint leathery tint. The base is where the interest lies. Suede, musk and sandalwood build a soft skin with a touch of amber, while a line of incense keeps it dry. Think of a supple leather glove you have just slipped off. Compared with Narciso Rodriguez For Her, another musk landmark, White Suede is less sweet and feels more like fabric. It stays reserved to the end, which some will love and others will find dull.
When to wear it
A skin scent for the office or a quiet dinner, best in autumn, winter and early spring. Three sprays on the chest and neck are enough since it sits close.
It belongs to the Floral, Musky family. White Suede is one of 33 creations by Tom Ford in our encyclopedia.
