People often say there’s no such thing as a bad perfume, only those that haven’t yet been tied to someone’s personal story or memory. While that rings true, it still stings a bit! I wish I could approach perfumes as confidently as I do with clothes - needing to touch and try them on before feeling any real connection. Yet, with fragrances, I often fall prey to marketing, box design, and the allure of bottle aesthetics… I’ve been burned more times than I’d like to admit, yet I never learn. Do you feel the same way? The thrill of a “blind buy” perfume is indescribably exhilarating! This summer, I’m on the hunt for a scent that truly stands out.
What comes to mind when you think of summer? Some envision the smell of the ocean, citrus, or mint. For me, summer means scorching afternoons spent at the pool, splashing in cool blue water, occasionally infused with the unmistakable scent of chlorine, and surrounded by the cheerful shouts of children. It’s as if my brain has been programmed to associate that pool scent with long vacations, a break from books, and sneaking out into the blistering midday sun for silly adventures with friends.
No one loves the lingering chemical smell of pool water on their skin, but “VACATION” is a daring fragrance that encapsulates that very essence.
It’s interesting to note that Vacation isn’t a traditional perfume brand; their main product is sunscreen. However, the scent was crafted by Carlos Huber, a renowned perfumer from Arquiste Parfumer. Perhaps that’s why they don’t feel the need to prove themselves - they simply deliver what they promise: a perfume that smells like sunscreen and… the pool.
Yes, you heard that right! This unisex perfume features a retro design and combines familiar sunscreen notes like coconut, banana, and pineapple with the unforgettable scent of pool chlorine and even a hint of plastic from pool floats. It might sound peculiar, but in a surprisingly delightful way!
From the first spritz, the coconut and banana notes burst forth, heavy and intense, perfectly mimicking the feeling of applying sunscreen. Within seconds, you might just glance down to check if you’re wearing swimwear. Then, the pineapple and orange blossom emerge, adding a light fruity touch. The pool, sea salt, and plastic scents follow, but don’t let them deter you; they’re surprisingly sophisticated and pleasant. One reviewer on Fragrantica aptly described “VACATION” as reminiscent of a gentle sunny day, floating in a pool on a plastic float, with a cool Piña Colada in hand, rich with coconut aroma.
“VACATION” boasts decent longevity, lasting around 7-8 hours with moderate sillage. Priced at $60 for a 30ml bottle, it’s reasonably priced for a fragrance from a sunscreen brand. It doesn’t carry the cheap scent often found in supermarket perfumes, yet it’s not luxurious either. It’s a fragrance of joy and amusement - definitely not suitable for the office! If you decide to buy it, save “VACATION” for weekends or outings, just as its name suggests.
Purchase “VACATION” here.
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