Libertine kindly sent me a sample of Queen of Silk in a recent order and, on first wear, I wasn’t a fan. But over the next few wears, I experienced a beautiful oriental floral that evolves from a bold, slightly unexpected opening to a smooth, luxurious dry-down.
It makes a strong first impression, with what seems like a spiced patchouli and tuberose-dominant start (carrying a slightly masculine edge) with a subtle petrol-like note in the opening — perhaps from saffron — adding a slightly medicinal touch, before softening as it develops. As it transitions, Queen of Silk leans more feminine, with a warm, spicy incense and an opulent floral heart. It becomes a softer, more refined floral composition, where the silky texture truly emerges. The sweetness in the mid-to-full dry-down is balanced and never overpowering, making the scent feel smooth, silky and refined, true to its regal name.
This fragrance is lovely and a perfect reminder that snap judgments don’t always do justice to a perfume’s full story.