Spiky Muse

8.6

Ex Nihilo

$$$$
Fall, Winter
Evening, Formal

Overview

Spiky Muse by Ex Nihilo stands out with its balance of oriental floral richness and creative flair. Capturing a bold feminine touch through notes of rose, pistachio, and strawberry extracted through innovative upcycling, it blends elegance with sustainability. Deep woody foundations enhance its sophistication, making it perfect for those who seek a luxurious edge in their fragrance collection. The commendable longevity and projection position it as an ideal choice for evening indulgence or formal affairs.

Key Details

Perfumer :
Ex Nihilo
Year :
2025
Family :
Oriental Floral
Origin :
France
Gender :
Unisex
Occasion :
Evening, Formal
Season :
Fall, Winter
Longevity :
Excellent, 10-12 hours
Projection :
Strong
Concentration :
Extrait de Parfum
Sizes :
50ml (1.7 oz), 100ml (3.4 oz)
Price Range:
$295 (£245)
Top Notes:
Bergamot, Pink Pepper, Strawberry
Heart Notes:
Rose, Pistachio
Base Notes:
Akigalawood, Ambrofix™, Cedarwood, Tonka Bean

Rating

8.6
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
9.0
Longevity
8.5
Projection
8.7
Uniqueness
8.8
Value for Money
8.2

Reviews

Public Review Sentiment

Spiky Muse has garnered admiration for its “gorgeous floral heart with a creative twist”, and its “lasting power that doesn’t disappoint”. Fans describe it as a “luxurious blend that feels new and familiar at once”. However, some critics note that it carries a “hefty price point”, cautioning those unfamiliar with niche scent spending. A few also remark that its “projection might be too strong for those who favor subtlety”.
Review Count:
3,870

When to wear

Romantic Evenings

The warm, rich composition of Spiky Muse is ideal for romantic evenings. Its deep and alluring scent adds a touch of elegance to a dinner date or an intimate gathering, enveloping the air with an inviting aura.

Formal Events

Its extravagant and sophisticated profile makes it a perfect choice for formal events such as gala dinners, weddings, or black-tie occasions. The fragrance ensures a lasting impression, complementing elegant attires.

Cultural Soirees

Spiky Muse's artistic blend makes it suitable for cultural outings like theater performances or art exhibitions. The unique rose and pistachio accord adds intrigue and mystery to one's persona.

Evening Gathers

Perfect for evening gatherings, the fragrance's rich profile and fantastic longevity mean you'll remain alluring and sophisticated throughout social events, enhancing nighttime experiences with ease.

Layering Tips

Citrus Freshness: Enhance Spiky Muse with a citrus-forward fragrance to add a fresh lift. This combination works brilliantly for both men and women.
Earthy Depth: Pair with a vetiver-based scent to bring out the woody undertones, suitable for unisex wear.
Sweet Accents: Layer with a gourmand or vanilla fragrance to amplify the pistachio sweetness. Excellent choice for both genders.

The "Deep Dive"

The Dry-Down

Spiky Muse by Ex Nihilo begins its dry down with the floral elegance of rose melding seamlessly with the exotic sweetness of pistachio. As time progresses, the fragrance deepens, making way for sophisticated woody undertones of cedarwood and lush Akigalawood. The presence of Ambrofix™ and Tonka Bean further accentuates the aroma, adding a warm, inviting ambery touch. This blend results in a smooth, harmonious finish that evokes a sense of warmth, making it an unforgettable scent, perfect for evening wear.

Who should wear it?

Spiky Muse by Ex Nihilo appeals to creative and bold individuals who appreciate the exotic twist in their fragrances and favor luxurious, long-lasting scents. Its unisex profile suits both men and women who prefer potent, statement-making perfumes. Ideal for evening wear or special occasions, it thrives in cooler nights, offering a luscious blend of floral and woody notes. Those who value unique compositional elements and nuanced compositions will find Spiky Muse a captivating addition to their fragrance portfolio.

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

The Spiky Muse comes in two elegant sizes, 50ml (1.7 oz) priced at $295 (£245) and 100ml (3.4 oz) at $425 (£360). The higher concentration of luxurious ingredients in each variant translates to a premium pricing but assures an exquisite olfactory experience.

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.

Al Haramain Amber Oud Rouge

A fragrance offering a luxurious feel with notes comparable to prominent niche blends, providing warmth and exotic accents.

Tiziana Terenzi Al Contrario

Known for its rich, woody composition, it presents a cozy but sophisticated scent reminiscent of niche market profiles.

Goldfield & Banks Sunset Hour

Offers a fruity, spicy aromatic profile with unique floral undernotes at a premium market positioning.

FAQs

Is Spiky Muse suitable for office wear?
Spiky Muse's bold projection and rich profile are typically better suited for evening wear or special occasions rather than everyday office settings.
How can I make the scent last longer on dry skin?
Layer it with unscented moisturizer or apply a drop of petroleum jelly to pulse points prior to spraying, enhancing its longevity.
Is this scent similar to any other fragrance?
While unique, it shares a luxurious feel with fragrances like Al Haramain Amber Oud Rouge, though it stands out with its distinctive rose and pistachio notes.
Can Spiky Muse be worn by both genders?
Yes, it's designed as a unisex fragrance with elements that appeal broadly across gender lines.
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