<
Versace Crystal Noir’s top note is lively: a combination of cardamom, pepper and ginger. You will most likely smell these as soon as you spray it on. Once it’s dried a little, you’ll be greeted with a floral follower – the scent of gardenia, peony and orange blossom. After an evening out, you’ll find that the scent has softened to soft amber and sandalwood aromas – taking the whole experience from spicy and sexy to pretty and calming.
How I tested it
I wore Versace Crystal Noir to a couple of evening events – drinks with friends and some Christmas parties. The scent felt like it would pair best with a flattering black slip, heels, and a deep red lipstick (and I did as she said). The compliments were plentiful, but even without turning around I felt confident wearing the scent.
With a squirt between both wrists and another on the décolleté, it stayed in its peppery, attention-grabbing form for several hours – before evaporating into a delicate and warm floral aroma.
After taking it with me on several city walks at night, I spotted a TikTok that recommended pairing it with Tom Ford Soleil Blanc. I happened to have this in my collection so I gave it a try and was blown away by how transformative the combination was. It instantly transported that sexy nighttime scent into a summery day, adding hints of vanilla and coconut to the rich floral notes of Crystal Noir.
my honest thoughts
Versace Crystal Noir is no wallflower. She’s a movie star: elegant, rich and frankly a little intimidating. She’d never start anything, but she’d absolutely quit, reapply her lipstick, and be on her way (to the next paparazzi-laden party, no doubt). The epitome of a strong woman in stilettos – Sophia Loren or Gina Lollabrigida.
Given the serious confidence boost, Versace Crystal Noir is my new favorite all-night scent. I love how sexy it feels without veering into musky mature territory (which is often present when we talk about femme fatale scents). It kind of walks the line between dark and soft – probably thanks to the delicate floral notes that become more pronounced the longer you wear it.
I wish I could bottle the complex combination of Versace Crystal Noir and Tom Ford Soleil Blanc. It’s more playful and suitable for everyday wear, although unfortunately buying both and layering them on a daily basis isn’t an inexpensive way to live.
Where can you buy it
Versace Crystal Noir is available at your favorite beauty stores — both Sephora and Ulta — as well as several high-end department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom.