Téo Cabanel’s esteemed brand has recently introduced Déjà Vu, a fresh fragrance edition to their Perfumed Expressions line. Crafted by the talented perfumer Patrice Revillard, this mischievous and exuberant scent radiates an aura of joy and delight.
This fresh creation delves into the realm of bubble gum, and I must confess that my personal aversion towards chewing gum has prevented me from deriving any pleasure from it. Thus, the following review stands completely detached from my own preferences. However, I must acknowledge that, from a creative standpoint, the concept has been flawlessly executed. Therefore, all gum enthusiasts should take note!
Reducing Déjà Vu to a mere representation of bubble gum would undermine its true essence. Beneath its tangy facade lies a complexity that surpasses initial impressions, not only in terms of its texture but also in its remarkable evolution.
In order to capture the essence of bubble gum, perfumer Patrice Revillard collaborated with an expert in aromatic compounds to dissect and analyze the accord. Building upon this research, he chose to incorporate the invigorating freshness of citrus fruits in the top notes to recreate the effervescent quality of bubble gum. Subsequently, the fragrance unfolds with a delightful sweet and fruity aspect, reminiscent of both strawberries and raspberries. This fruity blend is further enhanced by the cherry-like facets of benzaldehyde and subtle hints of exotic fruits. To establish a solid foundation within the fruity spectrum, benzyl acetate, a molecule found in jasmine, imparts banana-like nuances.
A floral element is also present, infused with the enchanting essence of jasmine and orange blossom, radiating their sweet aromas throughout the composition. The overall fragrance is elegantly rounded off by the comforting presence of iris and violet notes, contributing to a soft, powdery, and creamy conclusion to the accord.
During the later stages of its development, the floral-fruity accord gradually incorporates hints of leathery and musky undertones. At this point, the perfume showcases intriguing textural interplays, oscillating between the comforting familiarity of white musk and a subtle yet distinctive note resembling “fake leather” or “plastic,” evoking shades of polyurethane in pink or red hues. Patrice Revillard eloquently described this element as a connection to chewed gum and its resilient, elastic texture. However, the intention behind this choice extends beyond the gum analogy, seeking to unveil diverse facets of musk. Cashmeran contributes a velvety touch to the fragrance, while ambroxan fortifies its longevity and enhances its trail without overpowering the overall scent.
Déjà Vu serves as a genuine antidote to melancholy, exuding an effervescent charm. Its vibrant sillage, reminiscent of a bygone pop-art era, is conveyed through a modern composition. Despite its name, this new iteration does not evoke a sense of “déjà vu,” as it ventures into an unexplored theme. While the realm of gourmand fragrances has long dominated perfumery, only a few have dared to delve into the bubble-gum universe with such precision, without compromising the delicacy that defines this esteemed brand.
