The Verdict

Scent Profile: A lush, green chypre with floral, herbal, and earthy nuances.
Seasonality: Best suited for spring and summer, evoking fresh greenery.
Sillage: Moderate, projection up to 6 feet.
Longevity: 8+ hours.

Introduction

Papillon Artisan Perfumes, a British niche fragrance house founded by Liz Moores, is celebrated for its artisanal creations inspired by nature and personal experiences. Papillon Dryad EDP, launched in 2015, is a modern take on the classic green chypre, blending herbal, floral, and earthy elements to evoke the enchanting essence of forest nymphs. This review delves into the fragrance’s composition, profile, and performance, offering insights for those seeking a sophisticated and unique green scent.

Fragrance Notes

Top Notes: Galbanum, Clary Sage, Tarragon, Thyme, Citron, Bitter Orange, Bergamot.
Middle Notes: Narcissus, Orris Root, Costus, Orange Blossom, Apricot, Lavender.
Base Notes: Oakmoss, Vetiver, Benzoin, Styrax, Peru Balsam.

Fragrance Profile

Papillon Dryad EDP opens with a bold, green explosion of galbanum, complemented by the herbal complexity of clary sage, tarragon, and thyme. The citrusy brightness of citron, bitter orange, and bergamot adds a zesty freshness to the opening. As the fragrance evolves, the heart reveals a delicate floral bouquet of narcissus, orange blossom, and lavender, balanced by the powdery texture of orris root and the fruity sweetness of apricot. The base is deeply earthy and resinous, with oakmoss, vetiver, benzoin, styrax, and Peru balsam creating a warm, grounding finish. The result is a complex, multi-faceted fragrance that is both green and elegant.

Occasion

Papillon Dryad EDP is perfect for daytime wear, particularly for casual outings, nature walks, or garden-inspired gatherings. Its refined yet earthy character makes it suitable for professional settings or daytime events where a sophisticated yet approachable scent is desired.

Season

This fragrance thrives in spring and early summer, when its green, herbal, and floral notes resonate with the season’s fresh, blooming landscapes. The earthy base ensures it remains grounded, making it a versatile choice for transitioning weather.

Performance

Papillon Dryad EDP offers a balanced performance, with its layered composition unfolding gracefully over time. It strikes a pleasing middle ground between being noticeable enough to make an impression and subtle enough to remain wearable.

Longevity

8+ hours.

Sillage

Moderate, projecting up to 6 feet.

Conclusion

Papillon Dryad EDP is a masterful interpretation of the green chypre genre, blending herbal, floral, and earthy notes into a harmonious and sophisticated composition. Its versatility makes it ideal for daytime wear, particularly in spring and summer. With moderate sillage and impressive longevity, it is a standout offering from Papillon Artisan Perfumes, perfect for fragrance enthusiasts seeking a unique, nature-inspired scent.