The Kohdo Wood Collection

Posted by Stacey

on May 1, 2008

I’ve been slightly obsessed with Jo Malone since I first discovered all of their fantastic fragrances. In fact, I once spent six hours running around London trying to find the Jo Malone store on Sloane Street (you’ll be happy to know I did accomplish my mission and left poorer, but very, very happy). Anytime they release a new scent I get excited, so imagine how happy I was to find out that this May, they’re adding two new fragrances to their line. The Kohdo Wood Collection was “created as a modern appreciation of Kohdo, the ancient Japanese art of incense appreciation” and consists of two limited edition fragrances: Lotus Blossom & Water Lily and Dark Amber & Ginger Lily.

Lotus Blosson & Water Lily is meant to be worn during the day, with a blend of mandarin, sacred lotus blossom, bamboo and aloeswood that encourages energy and gives you a clear mind to face whatever the day may bring. It’s my favorite of the two fragrances – it smells fresh and clean, but the top notes of grapefruit, bergamot and mandarin really stand out without being overpowering. It’s not strictly a citrus or floral fragrance, but the most intoxicating blend of both elements. I’d spritz this on before an important meeting or a day shopping with friends (so they can all be jealous of how good I smell!)

Dark Amber & Ginger Lily is a mix of cardamon, orchid and kyara wood that’s meant to clear your senses and give you a sense of relaxation, calmness and positive thought. It’s an evening fragrance, rich and smoky, with a sexy, lingering scent that clearly shows off its notes of pink pepper, ginger, orchid, patchouli and sandalwood. (I know a lot of people associate patchouli with the hippie lifestyle, but I promise, this smells nothing like the parking lot at a Grateful Dead concert). I’d layer this with the Lotus Blossom & Water Lily fragrance and wear it on a dinner date or to a Broadway show.

Both of these scents are available in a 1 fl ounce bottle ($50), a 3.4 fl ounce bottle ($95), a Bath Oil ($100) and a Home Candle ($65). For more information, visit jomalone.com.