Renowned for their eco-friendly scented laundry sheets, The Lab Co has dipped its toe into perfumed waters with Violet Riot, their first, and so far, only perfume.

Frankly, it had me at violet. I didn’t need to know any more. “Yes please!” I said to the PR team when they offered me a bottle to sample. Arriving in a smart box with a dark purple violet on the front, this is a perfume I have been wearing on and off for a while so that I can report back to you. I’m not a fan of unboxing videos. Let’s face it- you can’t review a perfume the second you try it. Violet Riot has therefore been with me on dog walks, summer days, evenings out and has even come with me to the office. Here are my conclusions.

Although I was expecting bold violet above and beyond all else, violet is not the disco ball of this particular dance floor. Initially, it has a fresh, medicinal feel, thanks to herbs (clary sage), spice and citrus. This left me waiting patiently for the violet hit, although I was quite happy with my expensive smelling spicy cologne as I bided my time.

When the violet notes start peeking out, they are drenched in roses, and less noticeably, iris. Violet and iris go so well together that sometimes it’s hard to discern them separately. In fact, here, it’s the juicy, dark red, velvety rose petals that steal the show. The roses are dense and rich, borderline boozy, with hints of blackcurrant and juicy red fruits. This gets deeper and more complex with a woody, golden base of amber and woods. A hint of resin adds mystery and exoticism, which sits alongside the roses on your skin, until they gradually fade into a spiced, red rose opulence.

Longevity is very decent at around five hours on my skin. Your mileage may vary. If you’re seeking a storm of violets, this isn’t it. If you aspire to smell like expensive red roses with violet nuances, that have an innovative, niche vibe, then pilgrim, you have arrived.

Where to buy it

You can buy The Lab Co Violet Riot from The Lab Co website. It is priced fairly at £75 for 60ml of eau de parfum. Whilst you’re there, check out their laundry sheets. I am seriously tempted by the lovely scents and the lack of space it will take up in the recycling!

Further Reading

Discover more about The Lab Co and its ethos and USP on the website.

Disclosure

I was kindly sent a bottle of The Lab Co Violet Riot by their PR Team, for which, many thanks. My opinion and my choice to  review, always remain my won.

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