Pauline Rochas Nocturnal (Yann Vasnier) 2025 + Sleek Seduction Giveaway

Nocturnal Pauline Rochas

Pauline Rochas Nocturnal by J

Nocturnal is the latest perfume from the house Pauline Rochas. Composed by perfumer Yann Vasnier this limited edition Eau de Nuit takes you on a journey into night where anything can happen as the lights go low.

Pauline Rochas and perfumer Yann Vasnier

Pauline Rochas and Yann Vasnier, Fine Fragrance Perfumer at Givaudan.

Nocturnal’s vanilla claws grip you from the moment the perfume hits your skin. Lactonic and creamy, feeling lush and sexy with a soft whisper of a buttery green hinting at stems of an exotic flower. You can sense the luxurious and sophisticated frangipani blossom emerging from the deep richness of the vanilla, enhanced by a warm swirl of tonka bean. This decadent vanilla drips from the dense creamy petals of the frangipani, it’s slightly waxy giving a soft skin like feel with a sultry subliminal purr of those endless summer nights. A gentle sparkle accompanied by a light breadiness whispers of champagne and gives a sense of quiet luxury to Nocturnal. Its overall impression is one of refinement and sleekness, giving elegant tailoring with a flowering creamy cut made from high-end materials. It has this hypotonic feel with heady whispers that feel inviting and fleshy in a sexy yet elegant way. Especially how it melts seamlessly into the rich vanilla; Pauline Rochas exudes refinement.

Pauline Rochas Nocturnal PR images courtesy of the brand and @matojohannik

Saffron weaves around the edges like delicate golden stitching crafted from steam, you can feel a warm, woody booziness with a hint of spiced fruits that enhances the inviting warmth and allure of Nocturnal. It cleverly foreshadows the soft suede and rich leather you’re about to glide over on too, but that’s for later. The vanilla isn’t done with you yet, it’s acts an anchor that pulls you back into focus as you get lost exploring the parfum’s floral facets. The vanilla in Nocturnal possesses a quietly seductive texture, creating an allure that is elusive yet leaves you craving for more.

Perfumer Yann Vasnier has balanced the sweetness beautifully with more savoury materials and woods, allowing a seductive suede to seep in. You can feel the suede’s nap glide lightly across your skin as if it’s as if caressed by a gentle breeze. There’s an almost smoky quality, with saffron’s steamy notes elevating and dispersing luxurious leather aromas around you. It’s here you can feel the perfume grow darker as you step out of the vanilla’s moon light glow and into the darker, more mysterious realm of Nocturnal.

Pauline Rochas Nocturnal PR images courtesy of the brand and @matojohannik

Nocturnal’s vanilla note unveils a softer, more powdery, amber quality, as if it has been caressed against suede, teasing out a fur like texture to the leather’s inner nap. It remains creamy and rich, yet possesses a darker essence that deepens its mystery. Nocturnal drips with that sleek sex kitten allure, can sense the enticing softness laid out on the smooth leather and suede in an irresistibly alluring manner. Think Marilyn Monroe stretched out on fur, but in a contemporary way. Tonka bean brings out more of its warmth soaking up the richness of the vanilla letting purrs of darker resins and woody ambers giving a rich depth with a gentle kiss from warm spices.  Pauline Rochas Nocturnal carries a fresh, clean counterpoint, with musks and amber woods highlighting the elegant framework of the materials, showcasing the sleek contours, while the bodily warmth of the vanilla and frangipani add the fleshy seductive body that slowly writhes on this suede and leather canvas. Nocturnal is “Venus in Purrs”; its gentle seductive vanilla fur and suede give off sexiness but not in an overt way.  It flirts and winks at you, giving you a come-hither look, yet it is not shy about teasing and withholding, fully aware of its desires as Nocturnal knows what it wants.

Notes: Leather suede accord, Vanilla Absolute, Musks, Ambermax, Georgywood, Safran, Tonka Bean, Frangipanier accord.

Disclaimer: A bottle of Pauline Rochas Nocturnal was sent to J, his opinions are his own.

 J Wearescentient – Senior Editor, artist and olfactive writer.

Nocturnal by Pauline Rochas

Pauline Rochas Nocturnal courtesy of the brand.

 

Thanks to the generosity of Pauline Rochas, we have a bottle of Nocturnal to giveaway in the US or EU. You must register or your entry will not count. To be eligible, please leave a comment saying what sparks your interest based on J’s review and where you live. Draw closes 6/28/2025

Please read Yann Vasnier’s Young Perfumer essay here

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48 comments

  • Ramses Perez says:

    There’s nothing sexier than a smoky leathery vanilla. Add saffron to it and you got a winner. Perhaps people will think this gives a hint at something like Tuxedo by YSL but that’s where this one it’s distinct with the addition of the Georgywood and frangipani. I’d love to try this one as vanilla happens to be my favorite note and with the addition of the leather and saffron this one gives a sophisticated and masculine touch to the note. I’m located in the US.

  • DAISY PEREZ says:

    I am absolutely intrigued by this fragrance. The description of this perfume in this article makes me want to blind buy this. its going on top of my wish list.

  • Scentofme says:

    Nocturnal is a limited edition journey into the night with rich leather, creamy vanilla and warm saffron. I live in EU.

  • sherin thomas says:

    Lovely composition. I’d love to try this one as vanilla happens to be my favorite note and with the addition of the leather and saffron this one gives a sophisticated and masculine touch to the note. From PA,USA

  • samozain1 says:

    I like this. It sounds like a nighttime sexy partially-smokey saffronish vanilla! I never heard about this house before but I am glad I did now.as J explained: “Nocturnal is “Venus in Purrs”; its gentle seductive vanilla fur and suede give off sexiness but not in an overt way. It flirts and winks at you, giving you a come-hither look, yet it is not shy about teasing and withholding, fully aware of its desires as Nocturnal knows what it wants.”

    USA

  • Sorohan Adriana says:

    Besides the vanilla notes, I hope you can also feel the frangipani notes. I like frangipani notes. I am from EU

  • EPTrail says:

    I always avoided vanilla and lactonic notes until I crossed paths with Blanche Bete. I always thought those notes were too feminine for my taste until discovering Liquide Imaginaire. I’m now more opening minded and curious to sample Nocturnal.

  • jennapark says:

    Nocturnal sounds like a sexy vanilla fragrance.What first caught my attention is the fragrance name Nocturnal which makes it sound dark and mysterious. Then the notes really pull me in and make me want to experience this for myself. I am enticed by a smoky vanilla with suede, amber, saffron to keep it interesting. If the name and notes weren’t enough to keep me interested the author stated “think Marilyn Monroe stretched out on fur”. That just screams elegance beauty with a little mystery thrown in.. I am very excited to try this masterpiece. Hello from Pennsylvania USA

  • Steven A says:

    My interest was sparked when learning of this new vanilla/suede perfume I have yet to experience. US

  • Laurentiu says:

    Thanks, once more, for introducing us to new creations from houses we never heard of before (at least me). Nocturnal is another one to add to my never-ending list of ‘to try’. I really like the notes – vanilla, suede and tonka sound good, but with that frangipani thrown in in the mix, things can get really different! I am curious about this one! EU

  • Melissa K says:

    I imagine the leather and vanilla notes in NOCTURNAL to be deep and sultry, warm and soothing. Kentucky USA

  • VP says:

    Based on how Nocturnal is described, what really grabs me is its reimagining of vanilla as a rich, alluring anchor, evolving through creamy florals, soft suede, and smoky saffron. The concept of a scent that glides from moonlit sensuality into deeper, more mysterious territory, hinting without fully revealing, makes it lavishly dangerous, wearing like a second skin, yet keeping its secrets. – VP Texas

  • Sngash says:

    Thank you J. Nocturnal sounds epically, deliciously naughty. The imagery reminds me of Rake and Ruin by Beaufort London but this sounds like a much more refined and delicate naughty 🙂 I’m in USA

  • Courtnee says:

    When J described the allure of Nocturnal as “Marilyn stretched out on fur” I immediately thought of “Venus in Furs.” It was so clever to call the fragrance “Venus in Purrs.” It truly sounds flirty and fun. I’d love to smell it. I’m in Virginia where I’d have to wait several months before I could comfortably wear it, though.

  • psebi101 says:

    Nocturnal’s opening vanilla, described as both creamy and alluring, immediately captivated me with its promise of a luxurious, sexy, and subtly floral experience. The way it transitions into a darker, suede-infused realm, with a touch of warm spices, sounds irresistibly seductive and elegant. I’m drawn to Nocturnal’s promise of a “Venus in Purrs” experience, with its blend of creamy vanilla, suede, and subtle spices. The review’s description of a scent that’s both elegant and subtly seductive, with a touch of mystery, has completely piqued my interest. Nocturnal’s description, with its “sex kitten allure” and creamy vanilla, immediately grabbed my attention. The promise of a fragrance that balances sweetness with savory notes and a touch of suede sounds like a truly captivating and sophisticated scent.
    I’m in the EU.

  • Salem says:

    This seductive, but mysterious blend of vanilla, frangipani and saffron sounds fantastic – for when you’re in the mood to attract and be pursued, not pursue. The “bready sparkle” of champagne also piqued my interest. It sounds like it brings some fresh fizziness to the composition, and it’s quite a special, elegant touch.
    I live in the EU.

  • opalbear says:

    Lots of vanilla! I’m game to try. I love to see ways vanilla and Tonka bean etc can be woven in perfumes. Especially when it’s a ambery leathery and not a candy cake one. I am in the U.S.

  • Jos says:

    The luxurious interplay between creamy vanilla and smoky leather suede absolutely captivates me – it sounds like the perfect balance of elegance and sensuality. I’m particularly drawn to how Yann Vasnier has crafted the vanilla to evolve from that initial “lactonic grip” into something darker and more mysterious with the saffron and tonka bean. The “Venus in Purrs” description is incredibly enticing – a fragrance that’s seductive but refined, flirty yet sophisticated. As someone who loves complex vanilla compositions, Nocturnal sounds like it would be perfect for those special evening moments when you want to feel both powerful and alluring.

    I’m located in the EU

  • wonderscent.mari says:

    I haven’t heard of this house or fragrance before, but it certainly sounds interesting. I mean, who doesn’t love a good vanilla, especially when its a hypnotic one, feels elegant sexy and inviting! I am loving the description of the notes here creamy frangipani, soft suede, smoky saffron and soft musks, all woven together in a beautiful seductive dance. It sounding a unique vanilla scent. I am sure it’s an absolutely gorgeous, intellectual, sensual experience. I’m looking forward to this one for sure!
    Thanks for the draw!
    Germany

  • n4tkaa says:

    I’m truly captivated by the unique competition of Nocturnal to “elegant tailoring with a flowering creamy cut made from high-end materials”. This vision of perfume as a beautifully crafted garment, complemented by a “breadiness whispers of champagne” adding a sense of quiet luxury, deeply resonates with my imagination. It sounds like a fragrance designed for someone who appreciates discreet elegance with a hint of bubbly sophistication. These seem like the perfect evening perfume, simultaneously seductive and exuding pure class. (Poland, EU)

  • Bran J says:

    This seems like a cat and mouse sensual and seductive fragrance. Tantalizing the senses with vanilla suede and resins. “Marilyn Monroe stretches out on leather” was enough to sell me on this one. Not sure if this would lean unisex but regardless this seems like a fragrance to lose oneself in.

  • Andrii says:

    Nocturnal by Pauline Rochas instantly drew me in with its lush, creamy vanilla and refined floral warmth. The frangipani and tonka swirl beautifully, creating a sensual yet elegant scent that feels like quiet luxury. It’s one of those perfumes that lingers with a soft, hypnotic presence—truly captivating.

    EU

  • mossgreen says:

    i really want to understand suede and leather more, and it seems like an easy pairing with the rest of the notes. i loved the line “Saffron weaves around the edges like delicate golden stitching crafted from steam” – it sounds like this fragrance will take you on a journey and i love that in a perfume.
    thanks, from in the US.

  • Angelika1 says:

    J Wearescentient review from Pauline Rochas’s “Nocturnal”, seems to described as a expensive sexy scent, with a creamy vanilla base that is a dark, addictive, and unforgettable smell with smoky leather and amber, creating a decadent and elegant fragrance. Giving a sense of darkness and mystery, making it a perfect scent for a night out or a special occasion.
    Always loved this type of fragrances. I am very excited to try out this sensual scent. From USA.

  • freyja says:

    Suede and vanilla is the most stable and basic, yet the sexiest combination for a night out scent. Would love to win this thrilling composition.
    I am from the EU.

  • Danniel says:

    This sounds like it lives in the realm of the Babycat DNA which I am a fan of although it’s missing the incense note so I’m quite curious to smell this being a fan of Yann’s work on Toy Boy and Bad Boy Extreme, which seem to be two of his more divisive works in the community. Very interested to see how the frangipani plays in this otherwise dark sounding fragrance but I always love a smoky vanilla note, especially paired with saffron. I’m in the USA

  • mdellaroc says:

    Vanilla suede is very seductive yet approachable made from fine ingredients, offering a taste of luxury. Of course I want some. In maryland.

  • LindenNoir says:

    I’m intrigued by how the vanilla is described not just as sweet, but almost animalic — like it has claws. That kind of textured vanilla, especially when paired with suede and leather, sounds really complex. I’m usually cautious around heavy vanillas, but the idea of it being creamy, yet shadowy and laced with saffron and tonka, is compelling. It sounds less like a dessert and more like a mood.

    EU, Germany

  • R2D2 says:

    The way the frangipani is woven into the scent caught my attention. Floral notes can often feel either too soapy or overly tropical, but J’s description gives this one a quiet, luxurious tone — more skin than blossom. I’m curious to smell how the waxy, creamy petals melt into suede and musks. It feels like it could strike that rare balance between sensuality and elegance.
    EU

  • FragranceFrenzyS says:

    What stands out to me is the image of this perfume shifting from something glowing and lush into something darker and moodier that transition from moonlit vanilla into leather and shadow. I really appreciate a fragrance that evolves like that over time. The narrative of warmth being gently pulled into something more enigmatic is exactly what I look for in a scent.

    I am from the EU

  • Lastochka says:

    I’m drawn to how the review talks about textures fur, suede, creamy petals, skin. There’s something tactile about the way it’s written that makes me want to experience the scent with more than just my nose. Also, the idea of a “clean counterpoint” anchoring all the richness is appealing. It sounds like it avoids the trap of becoming too heavy or cloying.
    Greetings from the EU, Germany

  • AromaAdventurer says:

    This sounds like one of those rare fragrances that plays with contradiction warmth and restraint, richness and transparency. The part about saffron weaving through like steam and the perfume growing darker over time really speaks to me. I like perfumes that unfold slowly and leave room for discovery, and it sounds like Nocturnal might do just that.
    EU based

  • foreverscents says:

    As a person who states up late (often with insomnia), Nocturnal truly appeals to me. I have always liked a seductive fragrance, especially one that is not overtly so. The suede accord along with the vanilla and tonka notes, sound creamy and rich. just a bit shy of sex kitten territory. I love the purring seductiveness of Nocturnal.
    I live in the USA.

  • Maestro says:

    Nocturnal immediately evokes a sense of allure; its name alone conjures images of something dark, seductive, and deeply mysterious. What first drew me in was exactly that: Nocturnal, a name that feels like twilight captured in a bottle. But as I read through the note pyramid, my intrigue deepened. I’m completely enticed by the idea of a smoky vanilla base, elevated by supple suede, glowing amber, and that touch of saffron to keep the warmth smoldering rather than sweet. This isn’t your typical vanilla… It’s sensual, confident, and textured. And just when I thought I couldn’t be more captivated, the description “Think Marilyn Monroe stretched out on fur” sealed it for me. That imagery speaks volumes—timeless glamour, softness laced with mystery, and undeniable charisma. This fragrance feels like an olfactory portrait of nightfall elegance. I’m genuinely thrilled to experience this masterpiece in person. Warm greetings from Paris.

  • Annika says:

    I always appreciate a good vanilla for adults scent. Pauline Rochas Nocturnal seems to eschew the bakery sweet vanilla for something more sensual and sophisticated. The musk and amber woods base is enhanced by the smooth leather and suede with the vanilla and frangipane offering the playful seductiveness. This sounds like an exceptionally well blended and elegant perfume. MD, USA

  • zibbyz says:

    What a wonderful combination, leather/ suede, vanilla and some tonka and frangipani? Just lovely review really captured my imagination and desire to experience this lovely sounding scent. Thank you for the gorgeous review and generous draw. I’m in the US

  • goldenswan says:

    J’s description of the suede and vanilla slowly turning smoky really stood out to me. It sounds: warm, textured, and a little mysterious. I also like the idea of the frangipani adding a soft floral touch without being too sweet. I’m in the USA.

  • absurdnose says:

    Vanilla, saffron and suede are undeniably cozy and delicious. The addition of frangipani sounds like a fantastic combination of scents. I would love to try this. It sounds perfect for a night out. Please enter me in the draw I’m in the USA.

  • Daisy Bow says:

    Such a big fan of Pauline Rochas! She has exquisite taste and I’ve been wanting to smell this since I read vanilla and suede. Great review, J Wearescentient and thanks to all for the giveaway. I’m in the US!

  • carrie_earle says:

    I’ve never heard of this house or fragrance before. J’s review has me interested. Looking this up elsewhere I was wondering if this would be a little too masculine for me. J’s description has this sounding like an alluring leather/wood/vanilla that I would love to get my nose on. I live in the US.

  • ElenaChiss says:

    This really sounds like a seductive blend! Vanilla, leather suede and musks is a mix right up my alley! I would love to give Nocturnal a try! Thank you! EU reader here.

  • Christos GX says:

    This perticular fragrances seems to me that is going to be a vanilla different than the others, smoky with the many different accords, like the saffron. From the article i was really intrigued with the description of a seductive, “teasing” fragrance. I live in Greece, EU.

  • mmerline says:

    “Nocturnal is “Venus in Purrs”; its gentle seductive vanilla fur and suede give off sexiness but not in an overt way.” Great line! If you’re into vanilla and leather, Nocturnal seems like a must-try, and the way it’s balanced with the frangipani is really thoughtful. Evening statement fragrance.

    I’m in the USA.

  • Eris.can.swatch.kaos says:

    I’ve no doubt that this fragrance, though thoroughly unique, reminds me of another vanilla and suede perfume. I’m going to be surprised, aren’t I? I cannot wait to get my nose on this Nocturnal vanilla. Everything in it’s structure has the potential to purr at me in a primal way. Count me in. I live in Oregon.

  • Pancake says:

    Suede, Vanilla and Florals sound like this is an extremely seductive fragrance. I tend to gravitate toward the heavier fragrances in my collection because I live in a place that tends to be cooler. This sounds right up my alley. USA.

  • David F says:

    All the elements of smooth trapped in a sleek bottle. This is serious just that probably punches above its weight and all of its unique facets shine in harmony. Can’t hardly go wrong with a strong vanilla, tonka base but here with the vanilla absolute they one how’s the competition and introduced something with a smooth twist of light and dark to come up with a beautiful creation. Would love to own, from Jacksonville, NC.

  • aditu says:

    I have recently been exploring frangipani as a note, and the description of the fleshy frangipani layered with creamy vanilla, and the soft furry suede, sounds enchanting! I am in USA.

  • wallygator88 says:

    Thanks for the lovely review! I find this fragrance interesting because of the use of suede leather and saffron. Safrron has a leathery characteristic that would be so interesting in this fragrance. The smokiness is a lovely touch as well

    Cheers from WI. USA