Ormonde Jayne Arabesque: A Fragrance Inspired by Middle Eastern Elegance

There are perfumes that smell good, and then there are perfumes that transport you to another time and place. Ormonde Jayne’s Arabesque Eau De Parfum (P2,700 for 10ml / P13,500 for 88ml from Art of Scent) falls into the latter category. Inspired by the rich, complex beauty of the Middle East, Arabesque is an olfactory journey that weaves together flowers, fruits, and woods in a way that feels both enchanting and serene.

The Scent Experience

Right off the bat, Arabesque greets you with a burst of warmth and spice. The head notes of blackcurrant, Italian bergamot, black pepper, and saffron are sharp yet inviting. The blackcurrant adds a juicy, tangy sweetness, while the bergamot brings a touch of zest. But it’s the saffron and black pepper that steal the show here, creating a spicy warmth that feels comforting.

As the fragrance settles, you move into the heart notes of jasmine and rose absolute. This is where the perfume really blooms. The jasmine is lush, sensual, and almost creamy, while the rose is soft and romantic. Together, they create a perfect balance that evokes a sense of well-being and calm. It’s the kind of scent that makes you feel at peace with the world—perfect for moments when you need to feel grounded and serene.

Finally, the soul notes of musk, moss, patchouli, and Oudh come through. This is where Arabesque takes you deeper into its Middle Eastern inspiration. The Oudh and patchouli add depth and an earthy, slightly smoky richness, while the musk and moss keep it from feeling too heavy. It’s mysterious without being overwhelming, and it lingers beautifully on the skin.

Performance and Wear

Arabesque has impressive longevity, lasting a good 8-10 hours on my skin. The scent evolves slowly throughout the day, from its bright and spicy opening to its warm, woody dry down. It has moderate sillage—not too strong, but enough to leave a lingering trace of mystery wherever you go. It’s the kind of perfume that whispers luxury rather than shouting it, which I personally love.

When to Wear It

I see Arabesque as a more evening-appropriate fragrance. Its rich, exotic notes are perfect for intimate dinners, special occasions, or those moments when you want to feel truly unique. That said, if you love a more dramatic fragrance for everyday wear, Arabesque could easily become your signature scent. It’s bold yet wearable, and the blend of floral and woody notes makes it versatile enough for all seasons.

Packaging

The packaging of Arabesque is as exquisite as the fragrance itself. It arrives in a stunning orange box with a fabric-like texture that feels both elegant and tactile in your hands. Inside, you’ll find a sleek card that details the notes of the fragrance, offering a glimpse into the olfactory journey you’re about to experience. The entire unboxing process feels luxurious, like unwrapping a special gift.

Overall

Ormonde Jayne Arabesque Eau De Parfum is a beautiful, evocative fragrance that is designed to bring you on a sensory journey through the Middle East. Its blend of spices, florals, and woods creates a scent that feels both luxurious and grounding. At P13,500 for 88ml, it’s definitely an investment, but if you’re looking for a fragrance that’s unique and utterly transportive, Arabesque may be worth it.

You can smell Ormonde Jayne fragrances in Art of Scent stores in Manila.