Parfums de Marly Layton is widely considered to be quite the polarizing fragrance. On the one hand, it possesses a lot of mass appeal with its warm spicy composition, blending oriental and floral notes for a distinctively sweet, fresh, and aromatic quality. On the other, its strengths are sometimes also considered weaknesses, with many enthusiasts criticizing its lack of identity. Some also point out that Layton can be a bit overpowering up close.
Regardless of how you feel about it, Parfums de Marly Layton definitely draws strong opinions on both sides of the fence. Read on below a few fragrances to try if you want something like it, or enjoy some of its elements but are looking for something more distinctive:
Breaking down Parfums de Marly Layton
Layton is notable because it arguably is the fragrance that put Parfums de Marly on the map. Just like Santal 33 from Le Labo, it exploded in popularity, reaching levels of renown that so far are only experienced by perfumes from designer brands. That’s a big thing for a scent from a niche fragrance house.
The nose behind Layton is Hamid Merati-Kashani, who also created Oriana, Pegasus, and Sedley for Parfums de Marly. His portfolio also includes Mystic Experience from Initio Parfums Prives, Scandal Gold for Jean Paul Gaultier, and Exquisite Embroidery from Yves Saint Laurent.
According to Parfums de Marly, Layton is the encapsulation of the essence of the debonair. Its top notes include apple, bergamot, and lavender, while its heart is a floral bouquet composed of jasmine, violet, and geranium. Layton’s base notes include vanilla, pepper, resinous guaiac wood, and patchouli.
Try these if you like Parfums de Marly Layton
For the most part, the bulk of the criticism against Layton lies in the fact that it doesn’t stand out. It’s a light and fresh scent that is approachable, pleasant, and inoffensive, and you’ll definitely receive more than your fair share of compliments while wearing it. However, it’s not a fragrance that invokes the question, “What are you wearing?”
If you love Layton and are looking for something like it, or aren’t a fan but looking for something in the same lane–just more distinctive–here are a few fragrances worth trying out:
Homme II - Kajal
If you enjoy Layton but want a scent that says, “I’m not like everyone else”, then check out Homme II from Kajal. It is the follow-up to the hugely successful Homme from the same house: like Layton, lavender is one of its top notes, along with fresh green accords provided by rosemary and clary sage. At the heart of Homme II is a heady mix of spices that includes cinnamon and clove, as well as a distinctive peach accord. Rounding off the scent are its base notes of musk, woody notes, moss, saffron, and patchouli.
Alexandria II - Xerjoff
If you enjoy the sweetness of Layton, then Alexandria II from Xerjoff could be a good choice for you. Like Layton, lavender is one of the top notes of this fragrance, hugged by fresh and fruity apple and rose wood. Also like Layton, there is a distinctly oriental quality to this scent, given to it by a blend of cedar wood, lily of the valley, and Bulgarian rose. Sandalwood, musk, Laotian ouds, amber, and vanilla make up the base.
DesirToxic - M. Micallef
If you really enjoy the scent of Layton but are looking for something more refined, then you may want to consider DesirToxic from M. Micallef. This unisex fragrance has often been compared to Layton, and for good reason. No lavender here, but DesirToxic is a very aromatic warm spicy fragrance that opens with cardamom, bergamot, and lemon off the top before revealing a heart composed of tonka bean, cinnamon, blackcurrant, and cannabis. At its base are oakmoss, benzoin, musk, and patchouli.
Genuine decants of Parfums de Marly Layton, as well as the fragrances listed above, can be found on Scent Split. Decant samples are a great way to try a scent out for yourself before committing to a full bottle. Try them out today!
For more information about Byredo and Decant please visit:- Scent Split
Sign in to leave a comment.