Empressa

7.4

Penhaligon's

$$$
•
Spring, Fall
•
Formal, Evening
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Overview

Empressa by Penhaligon's marries vibrant florals with a rich, oriental base, offering an olfactory journey from juicy blood orange and mandarin to a warm finish of patchouli and amber. Launched in 2014, this fragrance is both seductive and elegant, making it a captivating choice for evening and formal occasions. Its blend of luscious fruits and decadent base notes creates a sensual aura, leaving a lasting impression long after you've made your entrance.

Key Details

Perfumer :
Penhaligon's
Year :
2014
Family :
Oriental Floral
Origin :
United Kingdom
Gender :
Women
Occasion :
Formal, Evening
Season :
Spring, Fall
Longevity :
Excellent, 10-12 hours
Projection :
Moderate
Concentration :
Eau de Parfum
Sizes :
3.4 oz (100ml), 1.7 oz (50ml)
Price Range:
$215 (£190)
Top Notes:
Blood Orange, Peach, Bergamot, Mandarin Orange, Pink Pepper
Heart Notes:
Rose, Dewberry, Cassis, Neroli, Geranium
Base Notes:
Patchouli, Brown Sugar, Musk, Vanilla, Sandalwood, Olibanum, Cacao, Amber

Rating

7.4
We use a weighted 10-point scoring system to evaluate the best fragrances in the world. Our ratings are designed for everyday perfume enthusiasts and are based on the factors that matter most to you:

‍Scent Profile: Appeal and versatility.
‍Longevity: How long the fragrance lasts.
‍Projection: The fragrance’s ability to fill the space around the wearer.
‍Uniqueness: How distinctive and memorable it is.
‍Value for Money: The balance between cost and quality.

Ratings are carefully calculated based on expert assessments, global reviews, and user feedback.
‍
Scent Profile
7.9
Longevity
8.0
Projection
6.0
Uniqueness
7.2
Value for Money
8.0

Reviews

Public Review Sentiment

Empressa has gained admirers for its "beautiful blend of fruits and flowers", offering a "luxurious yet approachable" scent that many find perfect for both personal and professional settings. However, some users mention its "moderate projection" and express that they wished it was "more unique" compared to other fruity florals. With 1,466 votes, Empressa consistently garners positive feedback for its quality and elegance.
Review Count:

When to wear

Evening Elegance

Empressa's rich composition makes it an elegant choice for evening occasions, creating an aura of refined sophistication at dinner parties or upscale social gatherings.

Special Occasions

The striking blend of florals and sweet notes is perfect for any special event where you seek to make a memorable impression.

Romantic Encounters

Its enchanting aroma adds mystery and allure, making it an excellent choice for romantic settings.

Art and Culture Events

The sophisticated trail of Empressa complements the ambiance of gallery exhibitions, theater performances, or cultural soirees.

Layering Tips

Floral Boost: Layer with a pure rose fragrance to enhance the floral notes. Suitable for women.
Vanilla Touch: Combine with a vanilla scent for added sweetness and dimension. Suitable for women.
Earthy Depth: Pair with a woody fragrance for a deeper, more intense profile. Suitable for women.

The "Deep Dive"

The Dry-Down

As Empressa settles, the vibrant fruity and floral notes gradually give way to a creamy, warm base dominated by patchouli, vanilla, and amber. This blend lingers, enveloping the wearer in a subtly sweet yet earthy embrace. The interplay of cacao and sandalwood adds depth, creating a fragrance that's both soothing and intriguing, striking a perfect balance between warmth and sweetness without becoming cloying.

Who should wear it?

Empressa by Penhaligon's speaks to the confident, sophisticated woman who appreciates luxurious oriental florals. Ideal for evening wear, its warm base of patchouli, vanilla, and sandalwood makes it perfect for cooler seasons or formal events. With a delicate balance of floral and sweet notes, it suits those who embrace classic elegance and subtle strength. Empressa is not for the faint-hearted; it seduces with its intriguing blend, offering a timeless yet contemporary aura.

Celebrity Picks

None. You're in an elite class of fragrance lovers—this is a hidden gem you've discovered before it goes mainstream.

Pricing

Empressa is available in two sizes: 3.4 oz (100ml) priced at $215 (£190) and 1.7 oz (50ml) at $135 (£120). The larger bottle offers better value for frequent wear due to its generous volume, while the smaller option allows for a more accessible entry point for those wishing to experience its luxurious scent.

Simlar Scents

Love this scent? Discover three similar fragrances at varying price points — whether you're after a budget-friendly dupe or a premium alternative.

Tom Ford Velvet Orchid

A luxurious fragrance with a rich floral and oriental profile, offering an alluring and seductive presence.

Dolce & Gabbana The One

Features a warm blend of fruity notes with a smooth, amber base, perfect for evening wear.

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle

A classic with a fresh, elegant citrus and floral opening, developing into a warm, sophisticated base.

FAQs

Does Empressa perform well in warm weather?
While Empressa is versatile, its rich, warm base makes it optimal for spring and fall. In warmer weather, it may feel a bit heavy.
How many sprays are recommended for formal events?
For formal events, 2-3 sprays should suffice to leave an elegant and lasting impression without overpowering.
Is this fragrance suitable for layering with others?
Yes, Empressa can be beautifully layered with vanilla or woody scents to deepen its profile and add longevity.
Does this fragrance last long on dry skin?
Its longevity ranges from 10-12 hours, but for dry skin, moisturizing before application can enhance its staying power.
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