Discover the captivating world beyond mainstream fragrances with Rome, creator of "He Smells Like Rome" and a passionate fragrance reviewer with over 12 years of experience. This episode opens doors to scents you've never heard of but won't be able to live without.
Rome takes us on a sensory journey through his evolution from collecting designer fragrances to discovering the extraordinary realm of niche perfumery. "I want to try to give people that stand out fragrance," he explains, revealing his mission to spotlight black-owned businesses and independent perfumers creating remarkable scents that fly beneath the radar.
The conversation delves into fragrance maturity – how our noses develop over time to appreciate notes we once rejected. Remember when you couldn't stand oud or tuberose? Rome breaks down this transformation with refreshing honesty and clarity. We explore the surprising truth about synthetic ingredients, challenging the notion that "natural" always means "better" in perfumery.
We sample exceptional fragrances including Rich As Croesus from black-owned J’Elle Bulan Parfums, with its unique stone bottle tops; travel-sized luxury from Boadicea the Victorious; the otherworldly "Space" from Nicheend; and the regal Xerjoff Louis XV 1722. Each bottle reveals not just magnificent scents but stories of craftsmanship and artistic vision.
Perhaps most valuable is Rome's insight into fragrance authenticity and ethics – navigating discounters, avoiding counterfeits, and supporting genuine artisans. His perspective challenges the "influencer" model, advocating instead for substance, integrity, and the true appreciation of olfactory art.
Whether you're a seasoned fragrance collector or simply curious about expanding your scent horizons, this episode provides an authentic, knowledgeable guide to discovering fragrances that truly stand apart from the crowd. Your signature scent is waiting – and it might be one that only 1% of people know about.
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Fragrance shirts worn by some of the guests can be found here: https://etsy.com/shop/CanWeBeFragrant
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