Jo Malone CBE is the woman behind some of the world's most distinct, powerful perfumes. While she sold her eponymous company back in 1999, she has since established the hugely successful Jo Loves, proving that she truly has the magic touch when it comes to creating beautiful fragrances that people return to again and again. Now, she has collaborated with high street behemoth Zara to produce a collection of perfumes every bit as lovely as some of her previous work – and all for a very accessible price.
The Zara Emotions Collection consists of eight fragrances in total, each relating back to a specific style or item of clothing that has particular resonance. Vetiver Pamplemousse (made up of grapefruit, mandarin and vetiver), for example, is described by Malone as 'A crisp white cotton shirt layered with citrus cologne, an everyday accessory for me,' while she refers to Tuberose Noir (ylang ylang, tuberose and sandalwood) as the 'tuxedo' of perfumes, stating that 'The single note of Tubereuse is more commanding than diamonds.'
There truly is a scent for everyone in this collection, too. If you're a fan of musky, woody fragrances, Ebony Wood is the one for you, while those who tend to prefer lighter, sunnier scents will love Amalfi Sunray. They're commanding, too. Malone has not shied away from bold ingredients, blending the very punchy patchouli with guaiac wood for Fleur De Patchouli – softened by the presence of peony.
Interestingly, she has also managed to incorporate lavender into one of the perfumes – Bohemian Bluebells – which is no mean feat. As Malone herself said at the launch of the collection, lavender can often feel too overpowering, too much like aromatherapy on skin. The idea for Bohemian Bluebells, she said, came to her in the middle of the night after months of wondering how she could make use of lavender. Combining it with sandalwood and musk, Malone has created a truly unique fragrance that's as musky as it is floral, as fresh as it is lingering.
The collaboration was first proposed around 18 months ago, with Malone creating the eight perfumes in just a year. “I am delighted to join Zara on this amazing adventure of creativity and collaboration,' Malone said. 'Our first collection is drawn on the global heritage of both brands, Zara and Jo Loves; using ingredients I have loved for many years. Every fragrance has been crafted with personality and a voice to tell its story in a unique fashion. I hope you enjoy this first collection – it is full of imagination and artistry.'
There are three different sizes available. The 90ml bottles are £25.99, 40ml costs £15.99 and a very travel-friendly 10ml is just £5.99. Given that the fragrances all feel every bit as lovely as some of Malone's other scents, this is genuinely incredible value for money. Just in time for Christmas, too.