The world of fragrance is a vast and often overwhelming landscape, populated with fleeting trends and ubiquitous scents. Yet, amidst this constant churn, certain fragrances rise above the noise, achieving cult status and becoming synonymous with discerning taste. Le Labo's ANOTHER 13 is undoubtedly one such fragrance. Often found gracing the shelves of Sephora, or talked about in hushed tones amongst fragrance enthusiasts, ANOTHER 13 is more than just a perfume; it's an experience, a statement, and a testament to the power of minimalist composition.
This article delves deep into the captivating world of ANOTHER 13, exploring its unique composition, its alluring scent profile, its various available sizes and price points, and its overall appeal that keeps fragrance lovers coming back for more. We’ll also address common questions and misconceptions surrounding this iconic fragrance, helping you understand why ANOTHER 13 has secured its place as a modern classic.
The Genesis of ANOTHER 13: A Collaboration with Colette
The story of ANOTHER 13 begins with a collaboration. Le Labo, known for its artisanal approach to fragrance creation, teamed up with the now-defunct Parisian concept store, Colette. Colette, a haven for avant-garde fashion, art, and design, was the perfect partner for Le Labo, a brand that similarly valued innovation and individuality. The result of this partnership was ANOTHER 13, a fragrance initially conceived as a limited-edition exclusive for Colette. However, its overwhelming popularity led to its permanent inclusion in the Le Labo collection.
The fragrance was created by Nathalie Lorson, a renowned perfumer known for her elegant and sophisticated compositions. Lorson's brief was to create something unique, something that captured the essence of Colette's eclectic and forward-thinking spirit. The result is a fragrance that is both familiar and utterly unconventional, a testament to Lorson's skill and Le Labo's commitment to pushing the boundaries of perfumery.
Unpacking the Scent: A Hypnotic and Addictive Potion
ANOTHER 13 is often described as a "skin scent," meaning it blends seamlessly with the wearer's natural chemistry, creating a unique and personal fragrance experience. It's not a loud, overpowering scent; instead, it's subtle, intriguing, and undeniably addictive.
The key ingredient that defines ANOTHER 13 is ambroxan, a synthetic version of ambroxide. Ambroxide is derived from ambergris, a naturally occurring substance produced by sperm whales. Ambergris is highly prized in perfumery for its musky, salty, and slightly sweet aroma, but due to its rarity and ethical concerns, synthetic alternatives like ambroxan are commonly used.another 13 perfume sephora
Ambroxan provides ANOTHER 13 with its signature animalic muskiness, giving it a sensual and almost pheromonal quality. It's the backbone of the fragrance, providing depth, warmth, and longevity. However, ambroxan alone doesn't make ANOTHER 13 so special. It's the careful blending of other meticulously chosen ingredients that elevates the fragrance to its iconic status.
These other ingredients include:
* Pear: A crisp and juicy pear note adds a touch of sweetness and freshness to the fragrance. It prevents the ambroxan from becoming too heavy or overwhelming, creating a more balanced and approachable scent.
* Apple: Similar to pear, the apple note contributes to the overall freshness and brightness of the fragrance. It adds a touch of tartness that complements the sweetness of the pear.
* Citrus Notes: Subtle hints of citrus, such as lemon or bergamot, provide a zesty and uplifting element. They help to brighten the fragrance and add a touch of sparkle.
* Iso E Super: This synthetic molecule is a woody, cedar-like aroma that adds depth and complexity to the fragrance. It's often described as having a velvety texture and a subtle, almost imperceptible scent that enhances the other ingredients.
* Ambrette Seeds: These seeds from the hibiscus plant provide a delicate, musky, and slightly floral aroma. They add a touch of sophistication and elegance to the fragrance.
* Moss: A touch of moss adds a grounding, earthy element to the fragrance. It provides a subtle green note that balances the sweetness and muskiness.
The interplay of these ingredients creates a fragrance that is both complex and surprisingly simple. It's a scent that evolves on the skin, revealing different facets over time. It’s a scent that makes you want to keep smelling your wrist, trying to decipher its captivating allure.
ANOTHER 13: The Scent Profile in Detail
To truly understand ANOTHER 13, let's break down its scent profile into three distinct phases: