Some fragrances are love at first spritz. Others are more complex, require time to fall in love with, and Tom Ford Noir Extreme Eau De Parfum absolutely falls into that camp.
Key Notes
Neroli Oil North Africa Orpur, Saffron, Indian Kulfi, Rose Absolute, Sandalwood, Vanilla Ember
My Thoughts
I’ll admit, I didn’t warm to it straight away. For something routinely hyped as “the sexy one” in the Tom Ford lineup, I found the opening jarring. It’s spicy and sweet, almost brash, and not at all what I was expecting. I wanted seductive smoothness and instead got something closer to spiced dessert and citrus peel. But as it was a Christmas gift, I persevered (also, I’m constitutionally incapable of letting anything go unused), and I’m so glad I did.
This is, in essence, a manly gourmand with rich, warm notes. It opens with a vivid clash of spices and citrus, almost too intense at first, like walking into a room full of strong cologne-wearing strangers. But give it time. The initial chaos subsides, and what’s left is beautiful. The heart is soft with kulfi (an Indian frozen dessert, slightly nutty and creamy), paired with floral notes of rose absolute, orange blossom, and jasmine making it smell a little opulent.
As it dries down, the real seduction begins. That signature Tom Ford amber comes forward, full of heat and sensuality, anchored by sandalwood and a lick of vanilla that smoulders on the skin long after the drama of the top notes fades. It’s a drydown that clings to jumpers and shirts, which, frankly, I love.
Projection
The projection is strong enough to make a statement in the first few hours without becoming overwhelming. After that, it sits close to the skin, leaving a trail that’s intriguing to those close.
When I would wear it
It’s strictly an autumn/winter scent for me being a little too rich and decadent for anything involving sun or heat. I wouldn’t wear this to the supermarket or for a casual brunch. This is for late dinners, smart coats, and something that involves booze. It’s a fragrance that dresses up, even when you don’t.
Final Thoughts
Do I love Tom Ford Noir Extreme Eau De Parfum as much as Grey Vetiver or Eau d’Ombré Leather? No. But it’s carved out its own niche in my fragrance wardrobe like those occasions when I want to feel a little out of my comfort zone, a little decadent, a little different.
