Lipstick Accord

I’ve had a few requests for this accord in particular—and naturally, I spent weeks vetting and researching. Lipstick was an intriguing challenge. At its heart, it’s a mosaic of iris (orris), rose, powder, and raspberry. But capturing that cosmetic character? That’s where the real artistry came in. Ionones and musks became the stars, layered with care, each bringing its own nuance to the composition. Lipstick has a nostalgic magic for many—not in the color or the shine, but in the scent. Why is it so instantly recognizable compared to other cosmetics? Waxes, oils, and the faintest trace of fragrance give lipstick its signature aroma—one that, to me, feels like the soft warmth of an unlit candle. The obvious players are here—powdery musks, ionones for that earthy-floral softness, and raspberry ketone for a burst of fruit. But it’s the modifiers that make it real. Carrot seed lends a fresh, powdery earthiness; costus adds that unmistakable vintage-animalic undertone—human, lived-in, and strangely comforting. This is why I love perfumery—it’s not just scent, it’s storytelling. 💄 Have you ever worn or smelled a fragrance with a lipstick accord? Which one instantly takes you back?