Lily in perfumery
In This Article
The Lily: A Refined and Delicate Scent
The lily conceals within its heart a long pistil, responsible for its enchanting fragrance. Mysterious and delicate, the lily emits a soft and suave scent of white flowers. This flower can also offer slightly spicy notes. It is primarily found in middle notes and feminine fragrances, such as Rochas' "Absolu" perfume, where the lily is accompanied by orange blossom and pepper. The base is woody, owing to labdanum, Tolu balm, and benzoin. "Absolu" is a sensual oriental fragrance, showcasing the spirit of femininity.
Lily's Combinations with Other Fragrances
While the lily is less commonly used in fine perfumery, its suave notes of white flowers make it a fitting addition to floral and oriental women's perfumes. A famous floral fragrance featuring lily alongside lily of the valley, rose, and ylang-ylang is Cacharel's "Anaïs Anaïs." This classic, romantic perfume is ideal for sweet and sensual young women. The lily can also be discovered in woody scents, such as Azzaro for Elle by Azzaro. In this fragrance, the lily is placed in the middle note, paired with rose. Cardamom in the top note and cashmere wood in the base note create a warm, woody accord. Azzaro pays tribute to seductive and sensual women with this fragrance. Another feminine scent featuring lily combined with woody notes is Chanel's "Beige." Here, the lily, still in the top note, is blended with jasmine, ylang-ylang, and the novel addition of honey, resulting in a beautiful floral bouquet with honeyed and powdery notes.
The lily, a bulbous plant, is a prevalent sight in many gardens and parks. It is a highly fragrant flower with vibrant and diverse colors. In perfumery, the lily is reproduced synthetically, offering very floral, suave, and sweet notes. It is essential to remember that the lily symbolizes not only purity but also French royalty.
Fun Facts About the Lily
- The lily has been a symbol of purity, innocence, and fertility throughout history.
- There are more than 100 species of lilies, with a wide variety of colors and shapes.
- In Greek mythology, the lily is associated with the goddess Hera, representing motherhood and purity.
- Historically, lilies have been used for medicinal purposes, such as treating skin conditions and soothing burns.
- The lily is the traditional 30th wedding anniversary flower, symbolizing devotion, humility, and everlasting love.