When the Alexander McQueen fragrance hit stores earlier this year, we collectively cooed at the beautiful bottle and incredible description of the juice, but then collectively winced at the price point. There aren't many people in this world that can justify spending £285.00 on a scent without a second thought, proving the fragrance was created with a definite customer in mind. The moody and exquisitely crafted bottle hid a rich, sensual and timeless fragrance that was the pure embodiment of the McQueen brand - but it certainly wasn't for everyone, thanks to the old-school notes and incredibly musky undertones. (Read my original review on the Alexander McQueen Parfum here.) Building on the brand they've already created, the fashion powerhouse have now concocted a lighter, fresher and (most importantly) more affordable version that's not only more justifyable - but more wearable too.
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Inspired by the eternal freshness of night flowers once the day has passed, the McQueen scent is described as "marrying a vintage spirit with Alexander McQueen's modern architecture. The artistry of its craftsmanship is centred around the precious essence of three night-blooming flowers; the power of Sambac Jasmine is met with the erotic embrace of the Tuberose, as both are wrapped in the exotic spiciness of Ylang Ylang." Excitingly, the concept and main ingredients are the same in this as they were in the £285.00 version, meaning you still get to experience what the scent is all about. I can only make the assumption that the concentration is weaker and the ingredients less perfect in quality, which together makes the fragrance cheaper and lighter to wear. (The main difference between a Parfum and Eau De Parfum is the concentration and longevity.) This is carried through to the delicate bottle design and tint of the juice inside, making it a more feminine and universal perfume without taking anything away from the McQueen brand.
Personally I prefer this to the Parfum and think it's much more wearable (I did find the first incarnation a little overwhelming,) and have no doubt that this will sell incredibly well once fans of the brand get a sniff. In true fragrance house style, there's also a corresponding scented body lotion that's the perfect accompaniment. Enriched with the same fragrance to boost the notes and ensure it lasts throughout the day, the lightweight cream is utterly gorgeous and a complete pleasure to apply. I can't actually find it anywhere online, so we can only assume it's a GWP or a free addition as part of a special offer - so look out for that! I'm really pleased McQueen have identified the need for a more affordable addition to their fragrance portfolio, and here's hoping for many more scents from the brand.
Are you excited about the McQueen Eau De Parfum launch? Were you excited about the original Parfum?
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The Alexander McQueen Eau De Parfum is available from Selfridges, priced £75.00 for 50ml.
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Inspired by the eternal freshness of night flowers once the day has passed, the McQueen scent is described as "marrying a vintage spirit with Alexander McQueen's modern architecture. The artistry of its craftsmanship is centred around the precious essence of three night-blooming flowers; the power of Sambac Jasmine is met with the erotic embrace of the Tuberose, as both are wrapped in the exotic spiciness of Ylang Ylang." Excitingly, the concept and main ingredients are the same in this as they were in the £285.00 version, meaning you still get to experience what the scent is all about. I can only make the assumption that the concentration is weaker and the ingredients less perfect in quality, which together makes the fragrance cheaper and lighter to wear. (The main difference between a Parfum and Eau De Parfum is the concentration and longevity.) This is carried through to the delicate bottle design and tint of the juice inside, making it a more feminine and universal perfume without taking anything away from the McQueen brand.
Personally I prefer this to the Parfum and think it's much more wearable (I did find the first incarnation a little overwhelming,) and have no doubt that this will sell incredibly well once fans of the brand get a sniff. In true fragrance house style, there's also a corresponding scented body lotion that's the perfect accompaniment. Enriched with the same fragrance to boost the notes and ensure it lasts throughout the day, the lightweight cream is utterly gorgeous and a complete pleasure to apply. I can't actually find it anywhere online, so we can only assume it's a GWP or a free addition as part of a special offer - so look out for that! I'm really pleased McQueen have identified the need for a more affordable addition to their fragrance portfolio, and here's hoping for many more scents from the brand.
Are you excited about the McQueen Eau De Parfum launch? Were you excited about the original Parfum?
The Alexander McQueen Eau De Parfum is available from Selfridges, priced £75.00 for 50ml.
Features PR samples unless otherwise stated. To read my full disclaimer, click here.