Not long ago, I reviewed Flora by Gucci and fell in love with the generation-spanning, ladylike fragrance that was inspired by Gucci’s iconic, Flora pattern (originally in a silk scarf specifically designed for Princess Grace of Monaco in 1966–still used today).
If you missed my last review, here’s a recap of the fragrance:
When you first spray Gucci Flora, there is an immediate smell of fruit mixed with flowers. In fact, the top notes are citrus and peony. But when these notes are mixed with the heart of rose and osmanthus flower, you get a whiff of something fruity and light, with a hint of rose. Wait just a moment more, and that fruity floral is countered by the velvety, leathery aspects of the osmanthus. The base is a sensual but not heavy blend of sandalwood and patchouli (signatures of the Gucci fragrance world.). The result is a modern, playful floral that has a hint of sensuality. When I smell Flora, I want to dress up in a cashmere sweater, or dress up and go somewhere special.
When you love a fragrance, it’s really nice to be able to layer it. Gucci Flora has a superb Body Milk $45.00 6.7 fl. Oz and a Shower Gel $38.00 6.7 fl. oz. that both are packaged in striking, hexagonal, plastic bottles with hexagonal caps. The Body Milk has a pristine white and black bottle, reminiscent of the flacons created in the art deco style. The Shower Gel is housed in a clear plastic bottle that lets the golden gel, shine through. What I love about the packaging is that it is sophisticated, with minimal adornment. The Gucci labels with gold script type are diminutive, and the bottles don’t need to resort to charms and rhinestones, or anything that would take away from their serene charm. There’s no need for anything Gucci makes, to be gaudy or shout “look at me!” Like Her Serene Highness Princess Grace, the elegance in these products is a cooperation between the designer, and the wearer.
When you first spray Gucci Flora, there is an immediate smell of fruit mixed with flowers. In fact, the top notes are citrus and peony. But when these notes are mixed with the heart of rose and osmanthus flower, you get a whiff of something fruity and light, with a hint of rose. Wait just a moment more, and that fruity floral is countered by the velvety, leathery aspects of the osmanthus. The base is a sensual but not heavy blend of sandalwood and patchouli (signatures of the Gucci fragrance world.). The result is a modern, playful floral that has a hint of sensuality. When I smell Flora, I want to dress up in a cashmere sweater, or dress up and go somewhere special.

You can find Gucci Flora at Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and Gucci Boutiques. Valentine’s Day is coming. If you have the coin, spring for:
Eau de Toilette 1.0 fl. oz. $52.00
Eau de Toilette 1.7 fl. oz. $65.00
Eau de Toilette 2.5 fl. oz. $90.00