Part of the La Collection Privée edition by Dior, La Colle Noire is a fragrance I’ve had on my wish list for a long, long time. The set compromises of twelve exquisite fragrances made for both men and women, that have been created using carefully selected exceptional raw materials. They’re very special, very unique fragrances and each one brings something completely different to the collection.
Inspired by the Château de La Colle Noire, which was purchased by Dior himself – a serene home where he grew the inspirations behind many of the Dior fragrances, his flowers. The château was located not too far from the French town of Grasse – a place which plays homage to the rose… this being the signature note within the La Collection Noire fragrance.
Now, although predominantly a rose fragrance – I don’t find this to be a “floral” scent as such; it’s not at all powdery, and instead has lots of depth and mystery about it. Think fresh rose, with a musky, warm spice combination. In my opinion, it’s an extremely clever, extremely special fusion of ingredients, that work together to produce something wonderfully complex and rare. The Dior website actually lists just three smelling notes – Rose de Mai absolute, Sri Lankan sandalwood, and white musk – hence my comment about this being a very clever combination.
Size wise, the fragrance is available in 125ml, 250ml and 450ml bottles. Unless you plan to absolutely drown yourself in this every day for the foreseeable future, 125ml will suffice. You only need to spray this once or twice, and it lingers beautifully on the skin all day. Do you need this in your collection? Honestly, due to the price point I’d say it’s not a necessity… but would it make an extremely well received gift, or a personal investment for that special occasion fragrance? Absolutely.
