Scents of Man Pavlova image via the brand 

Ever since reading J’s introduction to the brand and his review of Ancient Forest, back in November, I knew Scents of Man was a brand that would speak to my soul. Natural perfumery, herbalism, mythology, an apothecary aesthetic, and whimsical art? Oh, but these are a few of my favorite things!

Isle of Man

First, about this unique place –  a destination that has lived on my bucket list ever since my teenage self became quite enchanted by its history… and legendary motorcycle races. The Isle of Man is located in the heart of the Irish Sea, a 33-mile-long self-governing crown dependency, with its own parliament, laws, traditions, and rich lore. It’s the only spot in the British Isles where, on a clear day, you can take in all the surrounding nations – England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland – from the top of Snaefell summit. Yet, in a twist of irony, the island belongs neither to the UK nor the EU. Said to be home to fairies, known locally as ‘the little folk’ or ‘themselves,’ the Isle of Man is also famous for its Fairy Bridge, where it’s believed to bring bad luck if one fails to greet the fairies when passing. So I say my greetings while I tell you more about Scents of Man – an artisanal house dedicated to crafting complex and individual perfumes, and unique skincare potions that draw inspiration from the rugged landscapes and rich mythologies and lore of the place. Founded by perfumer Andrea Byrne in 2014, the brand launched its perfume line one year later, and ever since then, it has been developing a diverse portfolio of fragrances, each telling a unique story inspired by the Isle of Man – from the verdant notes reminiscent of the island’s ancient forests to the marine accords evoking its wild coastlines.

Scents of Man perfumer Andrea Byrne courtesy of the brand

In addition to perfumery, Scents of Man extends its ethos to skincare and haircare products, utilizing indigenous botanical extracts formulated with a modern scientific approach. This holistic touch reflects the brand’s dedication to harnessing the natural resources of the Isle of Man – the brand grows and distills its crops in small batches, without using pesticides, and sources materials only from trusted suppliers –  providing consumers with luxurious products that are rooted in meaning, whilst holding a strong pledge to cruelty-free beauty. For those interested in exploring their full range, Scents of Man categorizes their artisan scents into boxes, making it convenient for customers to find a fragrance that resonates with their personal preferences. The current sample boxes offered by the brand are: Wood & Fougère; Chypre & Fruit/Floral and Gourmand & Fruit and the one that caught my eye and spent the most time with  – the Floral discovery kit. The beauties I discovered in it- Elfin Glen: a wildflower mix that summons a lush and verdant landscape, a dew-filled flower carpet lining the forest floor with bluebells and violets, and the sweet aroma of blackberries lingers in the air. Freesia: an armful of fresh, green, juicy stems cut and placed into vases, near the window to the garden, white curtain flowing in the spring air in this three-dimensional beautiful soliflore. Neroli Nights: a rich orange blossom, brimming with light, sweetened by yuzu and vanilla, just a bit indolic and rounded up by marigold – luxurious, sleek, smooth – a must-try for any Neroli fan. Rosebud: an intense, sweet, hypnotic rose, with vanilla and a whirlwind of powdered sugar from the Turkish delight.

Anna Pavlova in Les Sylphides (1909), fair use

But the one that made my heart stop is a beautiful fresh floral, named for the prima ballerina Anna Pavlova, who loved carnations and roses. And Scents of Man Pavlova dances on the skin as a madeleine opens for the senses, triggering memories. It made me hold my breath – not from overpowering intensity, but from its delicate grace – for there is no alcoholic harshness, no screeching notes – just a veil of perfectly poised, mid-air plié, a natural perfume hovering imponderably above my skin, in perfect harmony with my senses.

Anna Pavlova swan dress detail, fair use

Scents of Man Pavlova unfolds with the elegance of a slow, measured adagio. Soft floral notes bloom effortlessly, with rose and gardenia leading the opening movements. Their gentle sweetness transitions smoothly into the slightly peppery charm of carnation. Neroli pirouettes in with a touch of citrus, lifting the composition, and as the heart develops, vanilla and jasmine add a creamy depth, while labdanum introduces an arabesque of woody warmth that draws out the deeper, more resinous aspects of the florals. Tuberose and sandalwood create layers of complexity, like interweaving threads in a pas de deux, as the florals gracefully fade into the background. Finally, a soft woody-rose dry-down, anchored by ambrette, lingers for hours, balancing the composition between lightness and depth.

Anna Pavlova’s dressing table, fair use

Shining beautifully on a crisp winter morning and, as I imagine, performing with grace through a late summer evening, Scents of Man Pavlova is an elegant, slightly melancholic scent. A rose spiced with carnation, sweetened by vanilla, and deeply feminine – its essence feels timeless and I can’t help but picture Anna smiling while wearing it, in the last-minute preparations before the curtain raises.

Editor note: The perfume is available in 10 ml, 30 ml, or 50 ml sizes – in eau de parfum or pure perfume extrait concentrations.

Michelyn’s note: Approximately 70 percent  percent of their customers are from the USA. We hope a stockist carries this brand soon.

Top: Rose, Gardenia, Neroli, Cyclamen, Heart: Vanilla, Carnation, Sandalwood; Base: Labdanum, Ambrette, Jasmine

Nicoleta Tomsa, Senior Editor

Disclosure: Samples were kindly offered by the brand, opinions are my own.

Also read the reviews for Godred by Sandi and J’s review of Ancient Forest

Contributor Sandi Lundberg awarded Sheehan a Best of 2024

Scents of Man Floral Discovery Kit

Thanks to the generosity of Scents of Man we have a Scents of Man Floral Discovery Kit (a sample box of 5 deluxe samples which includes Elfin Glen, Pavlova, Freesia, Neroli Nights and Rosebud ) for one registered reader  worldwide You must register or your entry will not count. To be eligible, please leave a comment saying what sparks your interest based on Nicoleta’s review and where you live. Draw closes 1/21/2025

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