Olfactive Studio is a line of perfumes inspired by photography. Still Life is inspired by a disco ball photograph by Frédéric Lebain. With the name, one would expect a rather mellow fragrance. However, Still Life is an energetic cocktail with citrus and spice.

Still Life opens with a spicy, bitter and bright citrus. The fragrance hits your nose with its energy. It reminds of limoncello…with an addition fruity pink pepper and spicy black pepper…which doesn’t sound like a bad cocktail, does it?  The feel of this fragrance is a modern citrus. The heart is boozy and spicy…it is reminding me of a cocktail. Rum has been added to the limoncello and spices. And there’s possibly a sprig of mint. The base is warm, ambery woods that smell clean and never really get rid of the scent’s “fresh” character.

I mean this in a nice way, Still Life reminds me of a good “sport” fragrance for men (and women too!) because of the fresh, effortless character of the fragrance. Apparently, the world wants something “sporty” and “easy to wear”. I’m 100% fine with that, but if you want something like that get something good. Still Life is good.

Notes listed include yuzu, elemi, pink pepper, black pepper, Sichuan pepper, star anise, galbanum, dark rum, cedar and ambrox. Launch date 2011. PERFUMER – Dora Arnaud

Give Still Life a try if you like citrus fragrances. Or if you like perfumes like Penhaligon’s Opus, Cartier eau de Cartier, D&G Light Blue, Chanel Allure Homme Sport, Issey Miyake L’eau d’Issey Pour Homme, Atelier Cologne Bois Blonds, and/or Kenzo Toyko. Still Life is unisex. I think it’s a really good replacement for “casual” mainstream fragrances.

Still Life has average projection and above average longevity for a citrus perfume. I get about 5-6 hours of wear on warm days, even longer on cooler days.

Still Life comes in 2 sizes with prices ranging from $145-$195 at Beautyhabit. Samples are available for purchase. 

Victoria’s Final EauPINION – A modern spicy citrus: spiced limoncello. I am not a “citrus person” but I do like this one because it lingers and because it’s boozy.

Want more reviews? Try…

Olfactoria’s Travels

Fragrantica – Member reviews

Ça Fleure Bon

Now Smell This

Scentrist

Guerengoeroe Blog – In Danish but Google translates. We love Google.

*Disclaimer – Sample provided by Olfactive Studio. I am not financially compensated for this review. My opinions are my own. Product pic from Fragrantica. Post contains an affiliate link. Thanks!