Versense

"Versense perfectly represents the Versace woman. I created a fragrance to make her feel incredibly lighter. There’s something very optimistic and confident about being free, and it was that feeling that I tried to capture for Versense." Donatella Versace elaborated on the theme.

If lighter and fresher is what you’re after, Versense might just fit the bill. Like yesterday’s Essence by Narciso Rodriguez, Versense was developed by perfumer Alberto Morillas.

Opens whistling-clean, the early stages are crisp, green, lemon-lime-y and fresh, with the emphasis on the fresh — it’s distinctly Glade-ish in the opening (the notes: bergamot, green mandarin, citrus, prickly pear, fig, sea daffodil, cardamom, jasmine, cedar, sandalwood, olive wood and musk). The big fresh note fades somewhat on the dry down, but Versense stays light, fresh and crisp for the duration. The heart is a blended floral over woody musk, with vaguely fruity undertones lending some roundness. The cardamom, while subtle, adds some liveliness.

Versace Versense is available in 50 and 100 ml Eau de Toilette and in matching body lotion. The lasting power is pretty good.