I’d obviously heard of the Gypsy Water perfume before, I’d seen people rave and rave about it on Youtube, but to be honest, it never really interested me – I always prefer to go against the grain, so if a lot of people are jumping onto a particular product, it kind of puts me off a little… all in the interests of being different, you know. However, on this occasion, I was wrong… oh I was very wrong!! Because this perfume is incredible and I completely get the hype.
I actually discovered it whilst I was having a mooch around Selfridges with my friend, we walked past the Byredo counter, and I thought I’d just have a little whiff to see what all the fuss was about. Initially, I wasn’t that blown away, it was nice, but nothing standout, that is until about 30 minutes later when it began to dry down and I could not stop inhaling it! Aromatic, woody, fresh, intriguing are all words I’d use to describe this scent. Byredo themselves explain that this creation is a glamorisation of the Romany lifestyle based on a fascination with the myth – and when you smell the fragrance itself, that makes complete sense. They state that the scent of fresh soil, deep forests and campfires evoke the dream of a free, colourful lifestyle, close to nature. It has notes of Bergamot, Juniper Berries, Lemon Pepper, Incense, Orris, Pine Needle, Amber, Sandalwood and Vanilla; and all this works in harmony to create one of the most intriguing and unique scents I’ve ever experienced.
I found the longevity and sillage to be really quite good on myself – though I saw quite a few people complain about this. I wouldn’t say it’s as strong as something like an Oud based fragrance – and for the price you pay, I guess a lot of people would expect that; but I don’t think it sitting that heavy would work for the delicate and mystical nature of this fragrance, personally – so I do understand why it isn’t so heavy. The price is however, expensive – really expensive, so I’d advise getting it when there’s an offer on if you can. That being said I’m extremely obsessed with it and would purchase it again, due to how unique the scent is; but I also won’t be wearing it daily – it will be saved for special occasions only. I wish I could wear it daily, as it’s incredible! But until my Auntie in Genovia contacts me and tells me I’m a princess and have inherited a country… it’s special occasions only, I’m afraid.
