Modern Muse Chic | Fragrance Review

In 2013 Modern Muse was launched, Estée Lauder’s first fragrance offering since  2003. With Modern Muse, Perfumer Harry Fremont wanted to express the duality of the composition by creating a two accord composition of sparkling jasmine (which symbolizes femininity) and sleek woods (representing strength). Modern Muse introduced  a new concept in fragrance, revealing layers of strength and softness in an appealing creative tension. It was the first fragrance to “break” the base, middle and top note principle by making use of two scent accords. Its innovative “dual impression” structure invites you to connect with the fragrance through two contrasting aspects.

Fast forward to 2014, and Modern Muse Chic is launched. The new scent is inspired by the “bold, daring, more creative side of a Modern Muse”. Staying true to the original, and providing an intriguing dual impression, it retains the bold contrast of vivid florals and sensual ebony woods, a true innovation in fragrance design.

the bottle

The bottle is identical to the original Modern Muse, except that the beautiful navy blue bow has been embellished with gold studs. I love this take on the original as it’s slighlty edgier. Best of all, there’s no cap to get mislaid, a design detail that ensures the bottle is always perfectly dressed.

the scent

Scent-wise, there is a resounding similarity between the two fragrances as they both contain Jasmine, Tuberose, Musk, Patchouli and Vanilla. In spite of the similarity, there is an apparent difference between the two fragrances. Modern Muse Chic contains notes of Davana (an aromatic herb), Juicy plum, Golden honey, Stargazer Lilies, Musk, Cashmere wood, Agar wood and Labdanum (a type of resin). The result? A perfectly balanced vibrant floral fragrance with woody accents.

The fragrance opens fresh, then evolves like the scent of a bouquet of flowers throughout the day, moving from fresh and dewy to heady and voluptuous but always classy. The staying power is incredible. If I spray it on early morning, I can still smell it come evening time.

the campaign

The visual features brand spokesmodel Arizona Muse on the streets of New York City, in a slightly more daring and bold outfit than was worn for the original Modern Muse campaign.

my thoughts

At the risk of sounding cheesy, I do feel like a modern muse when I wear this fragrance. I will never forget just how inspiring Estée Lauder’s senior vice-president of corporate fragrance development, Karyn Khoury, was. Every time I wear Modern Muse I am reminded to be the best I can be! It’s absolutely amazing how a fragrance can make you feel different, but it really is that unique. It is instantly recognizable and you will never mistake it for another fragrance. I prefer it over the original Modern Muse because  I think that it has a more distinctive personality.

I feel like it would suit a woman who is bold, inspirational, magnetic, confident, creative, slightly edgy, classy and who knows how to dress well! If you aspire to those ideals, this is definitely the fragrance for you. It’s the type of feminine fragrance that doesn’t discriminate by age group or inclination.

 Rating: 7/5
Product: 7/5
Packaging: 7/5
Quality: 7/5
Price: R725 for 30ml, R975 for 50ml and R1 325 for 100ml
Would I buy again?: Yes
Where to buy: Any participating retailer, Estée Lauder counter or online here