Hello again,
I’m back with another review and, given the heat in East Harlem, I thought today would be perfect for an in-depth analysis of Artisan Pure by John Varvatos! I purchased a 2-pack of a 125ml bottle and 17ml travel vaporisateur at TJ Maxx and couldn’t be happier to have done so – it’s a fantastic fragrance and can be had for ~$30/35 depending on packaging!
On its first misting, Artisan Pure doesn’t actually smell very good, to me – it opens with imbalanced and far too strong notes of a marjoram and orris root. Thankfully, the harshness quickly disappears and Artisan Pure reveals its citrus, thyme, and ginger flavors. After only a few minutes, the fragrance fully opens and becomes a perfect powdery summer scent!
I’m a big fan of John Varvatos’ work in the fragrance, and Artisan Pure is a major reason why – following the brief opening period and throughout most of its drydown, one is able to smell strong accords of lemon, thyme, and mandarin orange with a brush of musk, to finish. Unlike similar summer-centric fragrances, Artisan Pure is rather complex, often revealing notes that I thought had long-since disappeared.
And while marketed as a cologne targeted at met, I can easily see this being worn as a feminine scent, as well – the powdery drydown period really allows the fragrance to stay present in hot, humid weather whilst the thyme and citrus notes give it a new life, indoors. Overall, Artisan Pure reminds me of a more versatile and active version of 1-12 by Halston given its bright profile supported by a sensitive muskiness.
- Concentration: Eau de Toilette
- Primary: Bitter Lemon and Orange Peel
- Secondary: Thyme, Citrus, and Ginger
- Tertiary: Powdery Musk and Amber
- Sillage: This is where Artisan Pure shines, I believe – one can instantly detect a hint of lemon, in the room, without being overpowered. After a moment, the lingering ginger and musk give this non-offensive Eau de Toilette a more subdued, yet pleasant presence.
- Longevity: I was genuinely surprised by how long Artisan Pure lasted on my skin – I could still detect its profile 6+ hours later whilst it hung onto my clothing for over 4!
- Versatility: Given the underlying musk and amber, I can see Artisan Pure’s citrus and aromatic accords working from the beginning of spring until the end of fall!
- Originality: I have yet to come across a summer cologne that is as complex as Artisan Pure, especially in an EdT – it lingers, lasts, and leaves a great impression!
- Packaging: As with other fragrances in the Varvatos collection, the attention to detail of the bottle is fantastic – another unique and high-quality addition to his lineup!
- Price: At a discount retailer, this is a steal! If you are shopping at Lord & Taylor, however, it’s MSRP of $90 should cause pause.
- Overall: I am a huge fan of Artisan Pure! For the price, I can’t think of many high-performing hot-weather fragrances that are better.
- Score: 8/10
Thanks so much for reading!
