Carolina Herrera 212 (pronounced like 2-1-2, an area code in NYC) is one of those “modern urban” fragrances that followed in the wake of perfumes like Calvin Klein CK1.
212 is a musky floral that isn’t overly feminine. I can smell “flowers” but they aren’t that strong or really identifiable. If I had to chose a flower, I’d say it resembles something like a lily. When I sniff this fragrance I pick up the squeaky clean notes of bergamot and lots and lots of musk. There is a faint hint of sandalwood. Overall, it’s a cool modern scent with tons of white musk.
I’m actually really surprised to see that this hasn’t been marketed as unisex. It’s so neutral, so soapy that it could work for anyone.
The fragrance has average projection and longevity (which is probably above average for an EDT). It’s never really overwhelming. Side note – I really do like the industrial-ish bottle. Each end is a bottle with a sprayer.
Notes listed include: gardenia, mandarin, rosette, bergamot, camellia, white lily, satinwood, sandalwood, and musk. Launched in 1997. PERFUMER – Alberto Morillas
I would say to give this is a try if you are a gal that isn’t too wild about florals or sweet fragrances but still want something “modern” and “young”, if you like “clean” musk fragrances,if you like CK One, CK Be, CK Eternity, Philosophy Pure Grace, Issey Miyake, Bvlgari Blu, Sarah Horowitz Peace Comes From Within Mind, and maybe even D & G Light Blue.
The 2 oz bottle retails for $78 at Sephora and Macy’s. It can also be found at discounters like Perfume.com.
I’ve never tried this perfume but I’ve always thought the bottle was really cool.
I like the bottle too.