Launched in 2013 by Serge Lutens, La Vierge De Fer is a lily-based fragrance that affects me in a deep and compelling way every time I wear it.

On me, it opens with jasmine, sweet, floral, indolic and softer than I expect from a Lutens fragrance. There’s a note of green here, too, that adds brightness to the opening. A fizziness from aldehydes gives the fragrance a metallic shimmer, complementing the creamy jasmine that slyly weaves in and out, creating a sort of shadow game. After a while, I smell lily, the central character. First, lily of the valley, muguet, its distinctive floral scent, clean and bright, extends the opening with its jasmine-like facets. I also smell hints of pollen and the waxy petals of the calla lily. Over time, it softens and becomes softly spicy, then gently warm and sweet from musk.

La Vierge De Fer has no dark side, no dirtiness, no twists, turns, or surprises. Nor is it loud, heavy or opulent, which doesn’t mean it lacks depth or interest. Instead, it dries down to a clean, clear skin scent without a trace of sadness or bitterness.

I love lilies – they‘re what drew me to try La Vierge De Fer in the first place, and the lilies here reach right into my heart with their quiet, gentle beauty and determined presence that won’t be denied.

Notes: Jasmine, aldehydes, lily of the valley, cala lily and musk.