THAMEEN
Diadem

2018

cardamom
lavender
frankincense

rose
saffron

amber
patchouli
vanilla absolute

Diadem is bit of a tough one to wear for me if I’m honest.

Mostly compared to Penhaligon’s Halfeti and viewed as a warm, ambery scent, but I can’t let go of this fresher, retro aftershave in Diadem. An interesting mix, but not my favorite.

Warm and sweet, mixed with herbal and earthy. The opening in particular is spicy, sharp, earthy with that cooling touch. Maybe it’s the herbal, eucalyptus-esque tinge that reminds me of a spa or just some types of shower gel. Now mostly, this style is an instant no for me (looking at you Micallef DesirToxic L’Intense). In the case of Diadem, I find it bordering on being pleasant, as it leans into the sweetness, spices and earthiness hard. This aspect lasts, but gets a tad boring, linear and demanding for me as time goes on. It’s not as interesting and dynamic as a Gallivant Accra.

Not something that I would consider adding to my collection, but an okay sampling experience and one of the masculine-leaning ones from Thameen (I would vastly prefer Regent Leather or Royal Sapphire myself).