Detaille Sofia

Detaille is a niche perfume company that was established in Paris in 1905. It offers lovely candles, skin care, powders and beautiful fragrances for men and women. Of the nine fragrances offered on Aus Liebe zum Duft (First-in-Fragrance), Sofia caught my eye with its description as a “powerful and spicy cocktail.”

I have nearly used all of the atomizer sample I purchased in less than one week - a very good sign. Although I do not quite perceive it as powerful, the combination of notes definitely became a winner very quickly on my skin. It has all the feminine, mysterious spiciness of Caron Bellodgia while the variety of notes render it more than a carnation scent. With a fresh, citrus burst, blackcurrant buds, tangerine and ivy leaves open the bouquet. Quite quickly the spicy floral heart makes its appearance with carnation leading the way, softened with heliotrope and enriched by jasmine. The scent remains mysterious, warm and dry through the remainder of the day due to the base of warm tonka bean, rich vanilla and just a speck of dirty patchouli.

Sofia brings forth images of glorious female icons - strong and über feminine women who define sultriness and compromise for no one. Perhaps Ursula Andress, the ultimate Bond girl, would wear Sofia quite well. With her feminine physique and no nonsense attitude, this magnetic, spicy fragrance provides a parallel to her image. I would choose this scent on days when I want to bring forth my “inner goddess” and knock ‘em dead with one bat of my eyes à la Ursula.

Detaille fragrances are difficult to find in the U.S. although Takashimaya in NYC carries the line. Otherwise, Sofia can be found at www.ausliebezumduft.de, a 100mL bottle retails for 75€.

Image sources: www.ausliebezumduft.de, geocities.com.