Normally, if someone used the word "spicy" in reference to a Latino designer (such as Venezuelan fashion deity Carolina Herrera), I would roll my eyes in supreme annoyance and exasperation. But, in describing the new CH by Carolina Herrera fragrance, the usage of the words "spicy" and "hot" is far from offensive — after all, at the heart of this oriental floral you'll find such notes as Sri Lankan cinnamon, which gives the scent that much more of a kick.
Created by Firmenich's Olivier Cresp (who has worked on such famed scents as Thierry Mugler Angel and Nina Ricci Nina), Puig's Rosendo Mateu, and Carolina Adriana Herrera (Carolina Herrera's daughter and quite possibly the heir to the former's empire), CH by Carolina Herrera features top notes of Italian bergamot, Sicilian lemon and grapefruit, a heart of Sir Lankan cinnamon, Bulgarian rose, jasmine sambac, and praline notes, and base notes of sandalwood, suede, cashmere and amber. The citrus notes (lemon and grapefruit) are just subdued enough and yet they manage to add a clean, fresh feel to the fragrance which maintains its youthfulness. Bulgarian rose and jasmine exude elegance and status, while the praline notes add a tad of sweetness that is balanced out by the exotic, spicy cinnamon notes (it's the perfect example of "sugar and spice and everything nice"). Finally, the woody and leather-y base notes give the scent its more carnal, sensual quality.
When I wear it, I think of sitting inside a tea house, smelling the fresh brews, enjoying wisps of incense wafting through the air — all the while reading a book inside of which I've tucked a dried, red rose. How is that for an enticing image to accompany the scent?
CH by Carolina Herrera Eau de Toilette, $70 for 1.7 oz. and $90 for 3.4 oz. Available at Nordstrom.com
