There are many ways to celebrate a birthday – throw a party, take a holiday or, if you're anything like Kate Moss, host a four-day extravaganza in the Cotswolds. Those residing in the realm of luxury have other ideas. To mark Harrods's 175th anniversary, Maison Francis Kurkdjian (MFK), a long-standing friend of the prestigious London landmark, presents its latest olfactive 'gift', Reflets d’ambre, £230, which is exclusively available at Harrods from today until the end of December 2024.
The collaboration between the pair makes perfect sense – both houses are steeped in heritage and luxury. A quick glance at Harrods's busy and decadent fragrance hall sees MFK take pride of place, with many customers constantly circling its counter to refill their favourite scent. And Reflets d’ambre is sure to draw even more crowds.
What does Maison Francis Kurkdjian's new scent smell like?
In short: sophistication. On first spritz, there is a familiarity to it, like something the older, more established women in our lives would douse themselves in, leaving a trail of their signature scent imprinted on our memory. But once settled into the skin, a powdery softness takes hold, which is very comforting.
Its expensive and sultry, full-bodied character stems from its central note: a reinterpretation of warm amber accord, which namesake perfumer and artistic director of the brand Francis Kurkdjian says, 'is a mythical and founding accord in perfumery that speaks to both women and men. I have always been fascinated by its spellbinding power, its undeniable sensuality, and the emotions it induces.'
Spellbinding is certainly one way to put it. Its balanced yet multifaceted lure will likely leave you wanting another whiff, no thanks to the delicate blending of spicy pink pepper, musky jasmine, creamy vanilla and sweet patchouli.
How does Maison Francis Kurkdjian's new scent compare to Baccarat Rouge 540?
While both perfumes were crafted to commemorate a leading industry emporium's anniversary (MFK created Baccarat Rouge 540 to celebrate the French crystal manufacturer Baccarat's 250th birthday), they are worlds apart.
They share some notes of similarity – namely jasmine and amber – but together they prove how a slight variation in notes and their balance can steer fragrance into a totally different direction. Baccarat Rouge 540 is heady and sensual. Reflets d’ambre, on the other hand, screams old money and is a welcome, new rich aunty to Baccarat Rouge's legacy.
In any case, MFK has proven perhaps this is the only way to to wish your bestie a HBD.
Shop: Maison Francis Kurkdjian Reflets d’ambre
www.harrods.com
A grown up iteration of master perfumer Francis Kurkdjian's classic scent palette, boasting jasmine, amber, pink pepper and vanilla for an ultra-sophisticated, sultry and expensive-smelling olfactive experience.
Sameeha Shaikh is Grazia UK's Beauty Writer, working across all categories to bring you insights on the latest trends, industry news and the products you need to know about, viral or not (most probably viral).