Modern Muse Le Rouge Gloss by Estée Lauder

I’ve been fighting with this perfume for three years. At first, it was horrifying—it smelled like burnt plastic. But I took it as a challenge and didn’t let go. Then the day came: today, it smells completely new to me. It’s a smoky cherry on top soaked in honey, dark and sexy, with that leather and metallic saffron note I finally understand. Arabic perfumery has trained my nose so much; before, I only tolerated sweet, generic scents… it takes years to train your nose, and I think I’m on the right track.

If I have to say something, this perfume is SWEET, gourmand, powerful, and intense. If you want to be kissed and hugged, wear it. It signals that you’re a ‘youthful,’ cheerful person with a strong character. Personally, I love it; I’ve worn it on other women and adore it. Others love it too—it lingers on skin and clothes for hours. The Modern Muse line has class; nothing smells so casual or random. They keep their style but show what they want, and they do it well. This one specifically is elegant, though maybe not for a super-formal occasion; it feels a bit more playful. For summer, watch out for over-applying or getting on the person next to you.

I was passing through Buenos Aires for a week. This afternoon, walking down Florida pedestrian street, someone handed me a card with this fragrance. Distracted by the thousands of shop windows and the hustle, I took the sample, said thank you, and put it in my bag. A few blocks away, I sat down for coffee at a cute confitería. When I paid, I opened my bag and a delicious, unique aroma invaded me. What a wonder! I went back to the perfumerie immediately to try it on my skin. I love it: it’s refined, elegant, sweet but not overpowering. I don’t notice the fruity notes much… well, if I think hard, maybe the cherries; but I do notice the florals, especially red roses. It’s very original because the leather and vinyl are very noticeable (interesting), giving it a special, dry, slightly talc-like touch. Without a doubt and to my surprise (I’m a classic type), it’s already one of my favorites.

I still haven’t seen it available in my country. Personally, I love the vinyl note; I really liked it in YSL’s Parissienne, so I’m dying to try this fragrance.