Our take
What does Gardénia Pétale smell like?
Van Cleef & Arpels launched its Collection Extraordinaire in 2009, a more niche line than its department store scents. Gardénia Pétale was there from the start, composed by Nathalie Feisthauer. It opens green and lemony, like a stem just cut with shears. Then the gardenia unfolds. Don't expect the creamy, heady version of this flower. Jasmine and lily of the valley lighten it, so the heart smells like a damp petal rather than a hothouse. The base stays quiet and close to the skin. Soft sandalwood and white musk keep the flower close to the skin. Next to Chanel's Gardénia, which feels more powdery and old-school, this one is fresher and more sheer. It can come across as shy for a line that calls itself extraordinary. On warm skin, though, it picks up a lovely milky softness.
When to wear it
A spring and summer white floral, quiet enough for the office. Use three sprays on wrists and neck, since longevity is only average.
It belongs to the Floral family. Gardénia Pétale is one of 20 creations by Van Cleef & Arpels in our encyclopedia.
