Perfume Review: Stoned by Solange Azagury-Partridge
Stoned is the name of a perfume created by Lynn Harris (the nose behind Miller Harris scents) for a London based jewelry designer Solange Azagury-Partridge. The name very much reflects the general concept and aesthetic approach of this jewelry line that’s been described as “iconoclastic, irreverent and phenomenal” in reference to the precious materials. After browsing the Solange Azagury-Partridge collection online, I couldn’t help but conclude that the pieces are indeed eclectic and unconventional, yet done with the utmost taste and craftsmanship. Likewise, Stoned strikes me as beautiful in an unusual way. “This is the most fun one can have being stoned without breaking the law” - such is the main statement, and I can’t help but agree.
Before I dwell on the scent, I’d like to mention one peculiar fact about Stoned: it’s said to contain diamond dust. I’m not sure exactly what that means and how it affects the fragrance or why it’s even necessary in perfume. To be honest, I’m puzzled. Nevertheless, I choose to blindly follow my nose which declares over and over again its unconditional love affair with Stoned. It’s amusing at times to observe where your nose takes you. With Stoned, it took me to the paths well-traveled, so to speak, for I kept finding more and more similarities with some of my other favorite perfumes. This chameleon of a scent first resembled Voilette de Madame by Guerlain. Later it was Orchidee Blanche by L’Artisan. Then all of a sudden the drydown became almost a dead ringer for L’Air de Rien by Miller Harris. Upon further sniffs, I got Bois d’Armenie by Guerlain and Cashmere for Men by Cristiano Fissore. At this point you might say, “Forget it! It’s hardly worth it”, and you’ll be much mistaken for, despite its kindred spirit, Stoned is a scent of its own merit. Moreover, it’s multifaceted and multidimensional. The initial sweet, powdery notes of heliotrope and rose create a baby-powder-like effect but it doesn’t end there. The real transformation happens when labdanum and musk enter the scene - we get some animalic action. The drydown has a slightly dirty, mossy undertone which gives it a soft vintage effect. All that combined with the excellent staying power, truly funky bottle, and a hefty price tag makes Stoned unbelievably irresistible: you’re stoned indeed.
Stoned is available at Beautyhabit and Luckyscent (that currently has a free shipping promo with the code “stoned”). For more information on availability elsewhere, consult Solange Azagury-Partridge online.
Image source: luckyscent.com
21 comments March 21st, 2007