Byredo Eyes Closed: A Warm Embrace for the Soul's Quiet Moments
Unveiling the intimate comfort and introspective beauty of Byredo's captivating creation.
Ah, Byredo. The very name evokes a certain minimalist luxury, a whisper of Scandinavian cool intertwined with narratives that stir the soul. When Eyes Closed first graced the fragrance world in 2022, it wasn't just another launch; it was an invitation to a deeper, more personal experience. In a market often saturated with loud declarations, Eyes Closed emerged as a quiet, profound statement, a testament to the beauty found in introspection and the comforting warmth of human connection.
Byredo, under the visionary guidance of Ben Gorham, has consistently carved out a unique niche, positioning itself as a house that crafts olfactory art rather than mere perfumes. Each scent is a story, a memory, a feeling distilled into liquid form. Eyes Closed fits seamlessly into this philosophy, standing as a beacon of warmth and intimate comfort within their diverse lineup. It doesn't scream for attention; instead, it draws you in with its subtle complexities, a gentle hand reaching out in a bustling crowd.
The inspiration behind Eyes Closed is beautifully poetic: it's about connection, about the feeling of being truly present with another soul, or perhaps with oneself, when the world outside fades away and only the moment exists. It’s the scent of shared secrets, of a comforting touch, of finding solace in the quietude when your eyes are closed to the external world, allowing your inner senses to awaken. This concept resonates deeply in today's fast-paced existence, offering a fragrant anchor to moments of genuine presence and warmth.
Since its release, Eyes Closed has garnered a significant following, praised for its unique blend of spice, warmth, and powdery softness. It’s often discussed as a scent that feels both familiar and utterly distinctive, sparking conversations about its comforting yet intriguing character. In the discerning fragrance community, it quickly earned a reputation as a sophisticated, soulful offering, a scent for those who appreciate nuance and a fragrance that truly feels like a second skin, a personal olfactive comfort blanket.
The Nose Behind the Scent
Jérôme Epinette. A master perfumer known for his distinctive and often minimalist approach, Jérôme Epinette has crafted numerous iconic fragrances for Byredo, including Gypsy Water, Bal d'Afrique, and Mojave Ghost, among others. His ability to translate abstract concepts into wearable art, balancing complexity with elegant simplicity, is a hallmark of his distinguished career.
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
From the very first spritz, Eyes Closed unfurls like a warm, inviting embrace. The top notes of Cinnamon and Cardamom burst forth, not as sharp kitchen spices, but as a velvety, aromatic warmth. It's like sipping a spiced chai latte on a crisp autumn morning – comforting, slightly sweet, and utterly captivating. There's an immediate sense of intimate familiarity, a soft, spicy hum that gently awakens the senses.
As the initial sparkle settles, the heart notes begin to bloom, introducing a surprisingly elegant and intriguing complexity. The Carrot note isn't vegetal or green; instead, it lends a delicate, almost earthy sweetness, a subtle rooty nuance that harmonizes beautifully with the powdery, almost ethereal touch of Orris. Ginger adds a subtle, fresh, and slightly peppery zing, preventing the scent from becoming overly heavy. This phase feels like a comforting cashmere sweater, soft and refined, with hidden depths.
The drydown is where Eyes Closed truly anchors itself, becoming a second skin that lingers beautifully for hours. The base notes of Papyrus and Patchouli emerge, providing a dry, woody, and subtly earthy foundation. The Papyrus offers a unique, almost papery dryness, a sophisticated backdrop that prevents the patchouli from dominating. It's a clean, grounding earthiness, infused with the remnants of the warm spices and powdery iris, creating a serene, almost meditative aura. This final stage is the quiet comfort of a familiar presence, warm and reassuring.
Performance Dashboard
Eyes Closed offers a respectable longevity, typically lasting 7-9 hours on skin. It's a scent that stays with you throughout your day, evolving beautifully without fading too quickly, a true companion.
The projection is moderate, creating a personal scent bubble that's noticeable but never overwhelming. It's intimate enough for close encounters, yet distinctive enough to be perceived by those within arm's length.
The sillage is gentle and elegant, leaving a soft, intriguing trail that whispers rather than shouts. It's a scent that invites curiosity, leaving a delicate impression without demanding attention, much like a lingering, warm memory.
When to Wear
Community Verdict
Eyes Closed often garners compliments for its unique warmth and comforting aura. People are drawn to its inviting nature, often describing it as 'cozy,' 'elegant,' or 'smells like a warm hug.' It's not a 'loud' compliment-getter, but rather a subtle charmer that leaves a lasting positive impression.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Unique and sophisticated scent profile, truly distinctive
- ✅ Exceptional warmth and comforting aura, perfect for introspection
- ✅ Versatile for cooler seasons and intimate occasions
- ✅ Good longevity for an Eau de Parfum
- ✅ Elegant and refined, embodies the Byredo aesthetic
- ✅ Blends spicy, powdery, and woody notes seamlessly
- ❌ Premium price point may be a barrier for some
- ❌ Projection and sillage are moderate, not for those seeking a 'beast mode' scent
- ❌ The carrot and papyrus notes might be polarizing for a small segment of users
- ❌ Not ideal for very hot weather
Price & Value
“While undoubtedly a luxury investment, the unique artistry, quality of ingredients, and emotional depth of Byredo Eyes Closed make it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a truly special and comforting fragrance experience.”
Who It's For
✅ Ideal For
- Individuals seeking warmth and comfort in their fragrance
- Those who appreciate unique spicy-powdery-woody blends
- Unisex wearers who enjoy nuanced, sophisticated scents
- Anyone looking for a signature scent that feels like a comforting embrace
- Ages 25 and up, though its timeless appeal transcends strict age brackets
⚠️ Not Recommended For
- Those who prefer overtly fresh, aquatic, or overtly sweet gourmand fragrances
- Individuals sensitive to prominent spicy or earthy notes
- People looking for a 'beast mode' projector for clubbing or loud environments
The Family
The original composition in a smaller, travel-friendly size.
The original composition in the classic, larger bottle for extended enjoyment.
Explore More
🔍 Similar Fragrances
Shares a prominent cardamom note with a creamy, woody, and slightly powdery profile.
Evokes a similar cozy, woody, and resinous forest-like warmth, though with a different spice profile.
While much bolder, it shares a certain warm, animalic spice and comforting depth, appealing to those who love rich, enveloping scents.
Offers a dry, spicy, and woody warmth with an evocative, atmospheric quality, similar to Eyes Closed's introspective vibe.
💡 Clone Alternatives
Offers a similar warm, spicy cardamom and woody core, though with less complexity and longevity.
While much sweeter and more tobacco-heavy, it shares a very warm, spicy, and comforting quality, appealing to a similar audience for cold weather.
A very potent, warm, spicy, and slightly gourmand scent with a similar enveloping feel, though bolder and sweeter.
❤️ You May Also Enjoy
For those who appreciate unique, woody, and slightly savory profiles with a distinctive character.
If you love deep, warm, spicy, and comforting scents with excellent performance.
For lovers of elegant, warm amber and rose combinations that exude sophistication and coziness.
A sophisticated warm, spicy, and slightly gourmand scent with a creamy depth, perfect for intimate evenings.
More from Byredo
🧪 Layering Ideas
- A light vanilla fragrance to enhance its creamy sweetness
- A clean musk to amplify its soft, skin-like quality
- A subtle cedarwood oil for added woody depth and grounding
- A hint of sandalwood to lean into its creamy, warm facets
🏆 Final Verdict
Byredo Eyes Closed is more than just a fragrance; it's an experience, a fragrant sanctuary for the soul. It invites you to pause, to breathe, and to connect with the warmth within and around you. In a world clamoring for attention, this scent offers a quiet, profound embrace, a gentle whisper of comfort that lingers beautifully.
If you're searching for a fragrance that feels like a second skin, a comforting presence during moments of introspection, or a sophisticated signature scent for the cooler months, Eyes Closed is an absolute must-try. Its unique blend of warm spices, powdery iris, and grounding woods creates an aura of refined intimacy that is truly captivating. It's an investment in emotional well-being, a daily dose of comforting luxury that will undoubtedly enrich your personal fragrance journey. Close your eyes, inhale deeply, and let Eyes Closed envelop you in its beautiful, soulful embrace.