You can’t always judge a fragrance’s popularity and quality from Instagram. But in the case of Kajal Lamar EDP, you certainly can. This 2020 release epitomises what the Paris-based niche brand is all about: rich compositions often with an oriental vibe.
In the two years since its launch, this addition to the company’s Classic Collection has developed a devoted following. I take a closer look at this cult favourite and what makes it such a worthwhile purchase.
ABOUT THE PERFUMER
Mark Buxton is one of the most creative contemporary perfumers. The British perfumer made his debut in 1979 with Alain Delon Pour Homme EDT.
IMAGE: Mark Buxton Perfumes.
He created several classics for Comme des Garçons, including the Japanese brand’s fantastic eponymous debut (1994), Comme des Garçons 2 EDP (1999) and Comme des Garçons 2 Man EDT (2004).
IMAGE: Comme des Garçons.
While best known for his work for niche houses (House of Sillage, Le Labo, Linari, Parfums d’Elmar, Folie à Plusieurs, among others), he’s also given his bold touch to designer scents such as Chopard Mira-Bai EDT (1998), Cartier Pasha de Cartier Fraîcheur Menthe EDT (1999), Versace V/S Homme EDT (2000), Paco Rabanne Black XS for Her EDT (2007), Karl Lagerfeld Kapsule Light EDT (2008) and Van Cleef & Arpels Cologne Noire EDP (2009).
He launched his own eponymous perfume company in 2008.
SO WHAT DOES KAJAL LAMAR EDP SMELL LIKE?
It makes a statement from the get-go. The brand lists the more generic fruity notes, but I get big and juicy pineapple from the mix. It creates a warm and vibrant tropical tone, with notes of bergamot, orange, coriander and cardamom adding a fresh and spicy dimension.
The intense fruitiness of the intro continues with the floral notes of jasmine and rose, which also have a honeyed feel. Most intriguingly, Buxton makes the most of the marigold note with its characteristic herbal muskiness that won’t be to everyone’s liking.
The enchantment continues through to the drydown with a good dose of the synthetic Ambroxan taking the lead with its smooth muskiness. The moss note is also worth mentioning, as it brings a hint of bitter earthiness to what is otherwise an uncompromisingly sweet composition.
“While undeniably sugary, Kajal is so well put together and not in the least cloying.”
While undeniably sugary, Kajal is so well put together and not in the least cloying. No wonder it’s been known to temporarily lure converts, including this reviewer, to the sweet side.
Anyone looking for a standout fruity fragrance will appreciate this beauty. Even those with an aversion to overly sweet scents could find themselves succumbing to the charms of Kajal Lamar EDP.
It’s ideal for special occasions or when you want to feel special. Mostly, though, wear it when you want a window on a world of colour.
Oh, must mention that Kajal has some of the most striking bottles on the market (the ornate octagram tops have become synonymous with it).
Lamar reflects its light inspiration through the gold hues of the beautifully designed bottle. I wouldn’t blame you for wanting to display this one prominently among your collection.
Kajal Lamar is available in South Africa at Galeries de Parfums.
Love Mark Buxton’s work and your work, Rich. Fabulous overview and photos as always. I think these bottles are made for Instagram.
Ah, thank you, dear Daniel. Love what you do too. You might have a point there. Ha! Ha!