GOLDFIELD & BANKS
PURPLE SUEDE

2022

PERFUMER
Ilias Ermenidis

Lavender
Pink Pepper
Hyssop
Woodleather
Patchouli
Oakmoss
Civet
Amber
Oud

‘An olfactory imagination expressing the scent of aromatic fields of sunburnt lavender, where blossoms are crisped by the fierce heat of the sun. Paired with the scent of rust-coloured saddles, this sensual perfume reveals a distinctively rich and dry sillage. A contemporary and unexpected take on lavender and leather. Purple Suede is a perfume of precious woods, spices, luxurious leather and pure Australian lavender – an ode to the pristine quality of Tasmanian lavender.’ – Goldfield & Banks

I was pleasantly surprised by Purple Suede and I think it has a the perfect name to go with the scent.

I said surprised, because neither lavender or leather are my favorites. What Purple Suede offers however, is something that’s simultaneously a real, powerful and aromatic leather scent, but it’s also sweet, warm, and supple.

The Tasmanian lavender that came with the bottle on it’s own is the sweetest lavender I’ve smelled. It reminds me of a sweetened tea. Maybe even with a hint of fruitiness; I like to picture the purple going further than lavender here and imagine a ‘purple fruity aromatic’ tinge. You get the spiciness from pink pepper and coriander, but it’s not overdone.

As it dries it grows more woody than actual leather and the sweetness lingers on. For a couple of hours it errs on the smoky side. The closest reference that I can make is Mancera Saharian Wind, but the Goldfield & Banks is sweeter and more cozy. Especially as it loses the smokiness (and most of the leather) in the later drydown.