Kar-Wai by Carine Roitfeld Reviews & Perfume Facts

Kar-Wai features a complex and layered scent profile that opens with bright top notes of bergamot and tea, setting a fresh and aromatic tone. The heart reveals a floral bouquet of jasmine, osmanthus, and rose, adding sensuality and depth. The fragrance closes with a warm and slightly earthy base of cardamom, leather, musk, and vetiver, creating a rich and sophisticated finish that lingers on the skin.

The longevity of Kar-Wai is quite impressive, often lasting six to eight hours on the skin, depending on individual body chemistry and application method. The rich base notes, especially the leather and musk, help the scent to persist well beyond the initial application, making it suitable for all-day wear.

Kar-Wai is versatile enough to be worn on special occasions as well as for everyday life. Its luxurious and sensual scent makes it ideal for evening outings, romantic dates, or formal gatherings. However, the inviting freshness of the top and heart notes also allows it to be easily worn during the day, making it a great signature scent.

Kar-Wai stands out among unisex fragrances due to its unique blend of floral and warm spicy notes, alongside a hint of leather. While many unisex scents lean heavily towards either fresh or woody profiles, Kar-Wai balances delicate floral elements with a sultry, sophisticated base. This multilayered complexity sets it apart, making it appealing to both those who enjoy floral scents and those who prefer richer, deeper fragrances.

Kar-Wai is inspired by the evocative imagery of urban romance, encapsulating moments of intimacy and connections formed in vibrant cityscapes. The fragrance embodies nostalgia and passion, as reflected in its description—“Your ardor outweighed my reason”—and is designed to evoke memories of shared experiences under the glow of city neons, enhanced by the delicate beauty of the osmanthus flower.