Earlier this year, Masque Milano added to its Le Donne di Masque collection with a trio of new releases (Diana, Vaiana, and Catherine). Vaiana’s solar-themed structure smells of tropical fruits and tuberose. Diana, built around neroli, geranium, and spicy citrus, smells aromatic and masculine. My favourite from the line is Catherine, characterised by a trio of white florals set against a backdrop of lush green notes.
It seems an apt time to discuss Catherine as we enter into spring in my part of the world. My jasmine flowers are blooming, and nature is flourishing. Catherine’s initial impression in the air leaves one in no doubt that this is a white floral. If you don’t get along with white florals, you won’t make friends with Catherine. The pyramid lists tuberose and jasmine as heart notes. But they’re apparent from the opening with their slightly animalic and prickly traits. Above all, though, Catherine runs green and fresh.
Gardenia isn’t listed, but I get the sense of it here. The combination of notes creates a scent similar to the lush gardenia I had in my garden last spring. The slightly damp soil-like quality evident after 30 minutes or so gives the impression you’re smelling the flowers after a rain shower, their heady scent amplified by humid air. The green grass notes and violet leaf no doubt perpetuate this natural, ozonic theme.
After about 45 minutes, I pick up an interesting tart fruity aspect when rhubarb comes into play. Even in the base, the vetiver note carries through the green concept. Musk and light woods anchor the scent to its conclusion. Indeed, it’s a nice piece of work by Caroline Dumar, in a similar ballpark to Do Son Diptyque and Honour Woman from Amouage but much greener and less mothball-ridden. I’ll also draw comparisons with Malle’s Synthetic Jungle and its crunchy green, vegetal mossy character.
Note: Sample purchased by me. Images are my own.
Here are a few additional photos of white flowers from my garden that typify this Masque Milano.
Catherine is also my favorite! I’ve wore it a lot during the warm days! Great overview and beautiful pictures!
Ah brilliant, Tetê. I’m glad you like it too! It’s perfect for the warmer days. And thank you! Was it just me, or did you pick up any gardenia in it too?
White florals and I don’t usually hang out that much, but this sounds worth a try especially with the rhubarb and green overtones. Great flower photos as always.
Thanks very much, Nose Prose. Yes, it may be worth a sample, but the white floral component is prominent.
Like Nose Prose, white floral for me can be a challenge. I have a few favorites. I will add this one to the list to sample.
Yes, this one isn’t too challenging, and the green notes make it something I enjoy, Flaconneur.