Unexpected encounter or Nina Ricci's Capricci
I'm excited to chat about two topics today: Ninna Ricci's Capricci and optimizing the usage of vintage fragrances. My inspiration comes from the eau de toilette version of Capricci I snagged for just ten pounds. What a steal! But, if I'm being honest, I might not have splurged if it cost more. You see, I've always been keen on Nina Ricci's collection, but my heart was set on the pure perfume concentrations. I wanted to experience these classic scents at their boldest. While this isn’t the case for all brands, to me, Nina Ricci's EDTs felt delicate, like a watercolor rendition of their original charm. They seemed like a distant echo. But hey, for 10 pounds, why not give it a shot?
The initial scent is a touch powdery, or if you prefer, mildly aldehydic. Aldehydes cast a translucent shroud over the rich, heady floral bouquet. It's sweet but not overly so, bold yet restrained. It comes from an era when oversize wasn't the trend. What sets Capricci apart, besides its distinct divergence from other Nina Ricci fragrances, is its upbeat vibe. While many in the Nina Ricci line exude somber tones or an attitude akin to the reserved Farouche, or the sharp bite of L'Air du Temps, or even the layered mystique of Fille d’Eve, Capricci radiates warmth, offering metaphorical smiles and hugs. As it settles, it leaves behind the faintest hint of sun-kissed, slightly salty skin.
This skin-like sensation intrigued me, especially since, to my knowledge, there's no leather in the formula. And truly, it doesn't evoke a leather scent. I suspect the skin-like quality might stem from the Narcissus. I'm fairly certain its presence in the composition transforms the scent into an intimate, human experience.
I believe using Capricci in a splash, especially in this particular bottle that feels both too small and too large to be just right, is a misstep. After growing frustrated and nearly deciding to resell it, I transferred some into a mini spray bottle. I kept just 3ml for myself, thinking I might still part with the rest. But that's when the magic occurred. It's not solely about the fine mist that even the tiniest sprayer can produce; it's also about the quantity dispensed through spraying. It's much easier to manage, allowing for a tailored application that truly revitalizes the fragrance.
Capricci came alive, revealing all its nuances. It's stunning in the summer sun, with no need to wait for cooler, rainy weather. It evokes a sense of refinement while also exuding warmth. It makes you feel like the kindest soul, and trust me, in the bustling streets of London, that's quite an achievement. How about you? Do you prefer spraying or dabbing? Have you experienced the charm of Capricci? In any case, try to decant your vintages into sprays, they might surprise you.