It is not just the unique names that Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab ascribes to their perfumes, but the actual combination of notes that makes them stand out. That, plus the fact their perfumes are pure oils, hand blended to perfection. Bread-and-Butterfly is just one delicious scent in the company’s “The Dodgson Collection”, although “The Lion” and “Brusque Violet” are also worthy of noting. As part of the Victorian concept of Wonderland, the world in which Alice fell into after chasing a white rabbit down a hole one sunny afternoon in England, these scents are appropriately inspired. What makes this collection so special is that a simple dab of any one of these scents will bring upon visions of not just white rabbits, but many odd but delightful characters. These three perfumes appealed to me the most, particularly for the magic they evoke. Unlike other perfume companies, Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab provides context, a story, associated with every scent they produce. For “The Dodgson Collection”, snippets from “Alice in Wonderland” accompany each perfume, including Lewis Carroll’s famous “The Mouse’s Tale”, a perfect example of Victorian experimental poetry.
“The Lion” is a delightfully mild yellow scent, with amber notes that conjure images of the wild jungle. Unlike the Cheshire cat, this lion is wild, no toothy grin or human-like voice to enchant with. Very much a nighttime scent, “The Lion” will transform any woman into being strong and self-assured.
“Bread and Butterfly” is a baked goods scent, with vanilla, butter, with a hint of sugar, cream, and weak tea in the notes. Think freshly baked bread here with homemade butter on top of a slice. No butterflies were used nor harmed in the making of this scent, but in Wonderland, butterflies may as well spring forth flutter once that loaf is cut open. This was the second Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab perfume I purchased after experiencing a sample, and is one of my favorites. “Bread and Butterfly” is perfect for daytime wear.
“Brusque Violet” is one for women who love – and can wear – violet scented perfume. Granted, violets are not for all ladies, but for those who can, this perfume is a literally a field of violets waiting to be danced in. Containing notes of violet, osmanthus, orris, and opoponax, “Brusque Violet” is a heady evening scent, one that goes well with a glass of champagne and a ballroom floor.
Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab perfumes come in 5 ml apothecary bottles and range between $17.00 to $30.00 in price.
http://www.blackphoenixalchemylab.com/alice.html
