Just some thoughts about Caron's Pour un Homme
9 years ago
Pour un Homme de Caron is a real classic gents' cologne.
Launched in 1938, it seems to have become a role model for gents' and unisex lavender colognes. The main idea behind it is the combination of lavender with vanilla.
While lavender could be described as herbal and fougère-style, vanilla is smooth, broad and oriental. IMHO, Caron's Pour und Homme should be regarded as a semi-oriental.
For some reason, this combination must be very tempting for perfumers. From budget to niche - it is hard to find lavender perfumes without Caron's vanilla touch.
Opposites attract - but in case of lavender vs. vanilla I have a different opnion. I think those two notes are too far apart, and I don't feel at home with that accord.
There are supposedly at least two reasons for this combination. First, of course, it has proved commercially successful. And second, lavender itself seems to be a rather fleeting note that calls for a fixing agent. I suppose vanilla can provide just that.
So, I have been looking for Pour und Homme alternatives without vanilla, and I would like to point out two:
"Utopian" by social creatures: A very discreet lavender perfume. Also semi-oriental but with tonka and cognac instead of vanilla. Great and undeservedly unknown niche lavender.
"Oxford & Cambridge" by Czech & Speake. Dry, herbal and smoky. They abandoned the idea that lavender needs something to soften it. Gorgeous!
Besides that, it is always good to have a simple lavender water at home that is just that. I prefer unperfumed washing powder and fabric softener, and sprinkle a dash of lavender water on the fresh laundry.