BalMan (for men)

weegee

To leave this for men only would be such a shame as it so lovely. I must insist that BalMan, despite the name, is unisex.

First the disclaimer: I haven't yet found a Balmain scent I don't enjoy, with Jolie Madame (a favorite since 1971) and their new Ambre Gris being my "go to" scents when I want to be enveloped in sheer warmth, luxury and seduction. And most of the time I prefer chypres or orientals. That being said, Balman is a hidden treasure!

Oriental fougere - dare I call this a "light incense"? The eucalyptus is so well blended as to be indistinct, so you need not fear of smelling of sore-muscle linament! Nor is the lavendar truly evident - a treat for me since I don't care for lavender, but a possible disappointment if you do like it. The mandarin orange seems to transform both the eucalyptus and the lavendar into an understated seductive sweetness that neither creates on its own. I get the cardomom early on, its spice tempered and lightened by the freesia. Basenotes of vanilla, sandalwood, tonka bean and musk create a warmth that's hinted at in the first spray but not really evident until the dry down, which lasts a full 12 hours on me. I cannot stop sniffing my wrists when I wear it.

The sillage is enough to be noticed but it's slight and not at all overwhelming. I've worn it in 90 degree heat and felt cooled by the green image it creates.

I was ordering my summer fragrance wardrobe and added this, untested, to add the few dollars I needed to qualify for free shipping... such serendipity! Just $14.99 for 100 ml.

Women: don't let the name or category keep you from at least trying this fragrance if you enjoy orientals and chypres and enjoy a bit of green in the mix. You will not be disappointed.

Men: you must be both confident and bold to wear BalMan as you WILL receive compliments. I would turn to follow a man wearing this.

desmondorama

I purchased this online, untested, and am delighted to report that it is a new favourite of mine.

Sweet and unusual because of the eucalyptus, but the mix has all my favourite ingredients in it.

Great for office or even romantic wear. Unusual bottle and packaging.

Lasting sillage and quite masculine.

I love it and will definitely be buying some more online.