A fresh, woody aromatic that balances citrus brightness with earthy depth.
By Vivir·
In this review
In the crowded world of niche perfumery, Ex Nihilo has carved a niche for itself with fragrances that blend Parisian elegance with a modern, global sensibility. Founded in 2013, the house has quickly become a favorite among fragrance enthusiasts who appreciate luxurious compositions with a contemporary twist. Their Speed Legends collection, launched in 2023, pays homage to the thrill of speed and the allure of the open road. Living on the Edge, crafted by perfumer Jordi Fernández, is a unisex woody aromatic that captures the essence of a daring yet refined lifestyle. It's a scent that doesn't shout; it whispers with confidence, making it a perfect companion for the contemporary professional who values subtlety over ostentation.
Living on the Edge opens with a burst of citrus and spice, a nod to the adrenaline of a fast-paced life. As it settles, it reveals a heart of aromatic herbs and dark fruit, before grounding itself in a warm, woody base. This is a fragrance that transitions effortlessly from the boardroom to a casual evening out, embodying the versatility that modern consumers crave. In an era where gender boundaries in fragrance are increasingly blurred, Living on the Edge stands as a testament to the power of a well-crafted unisex scent.
The fragrance is more than just a pretty scent; it's a statement. It speaks to those who live life on their own terms, who appreciate the finer things but don't need to flaunt them. It's the olfactory equivalent of a well-tailored suit or a vintage watch—understated, elegant, and timeless.
Longevity
4.0
Projection
3.0
Sillage
3.0
$280-$385
SpringSummerFallWinter
Accords
CitrusAromaticWoodySoft SpicyFruitySweetEarthy
Notes Pyramid
Top
Pink PepperBergamotMandarin
Heart
Clary SageBlackcurrant
Base
VetiverTonka BeanAmbery Wood
Scent Journey
1
Opening0-30 min
A vibrant burst of citrus and pink pepper. The bergamot and mandarin are juicy and bright, while the pink pepper adds a gentle spice. It's energetic and uplifting, like a shot of espresso for the senses.
2
Heart1-2 hrs
The citrus recedes, making way for the aromatic heart. Clary sage brings a herbal, slightly medicinal quality, while blackcurrant adds a fruity tartness. The composition feels smooth and well-blended, with a subtle sweetness emerging.
3
Drydown4+ hrs
The base notes emerge, with vetiver taking center stage. The earthy, woody aroma of vetiver is softened by the sweetness of tonka bean and the warmth of ambery wood. The scent becomes a skin-like, comforting aura that lasts for several hours. It's the kind of drydown that makes you want to bury your nose in your wrist.
Performance Dashboard
Longevity4.0/5
5-8 hours estimated on skin
Projection3.0/5
Projects about arm's length, not overpowering
Sillage3.0/5
Moderate, leaves a subtle scent trail
When to Wear
SpringBest
SummerOK
FallBest
WinterOK
OfficeCasual outingsDaytime eventsEvening dinners
Pros & Cons
+Versatile for many occasions
+Well-blended and smooth
+Fresh yet warm
+Good for office and casual wear
−Pricey
−Moderate longevity
−Not a powerhouse projector
Price & Value
$280-$385
High-end niche pricing, but the quality and versatility justify the cost for enthusiasts.
“Worth it if you appreciate refined fresh woody scents and don't mind moderate performance.”
Reformulation History
No significant batch variations reported.
Who It's For
Ideal For
Those who enjoy fresh woody aromatic scents
Professionals seeking a versatile signature
Fans of vetiver and citrus blends
Not Recommended For
Those who prefer heavy sweet or gourmand fragrances
Layer with a citrus cologne to boost freshness for daytime.
Combine with a vetiver fragrance to enhance the earthy base for evening wear.
Final Verdict
Ex Nihilo Speed Legends Living on the Edge is a sophisticated, versatile fragrance that masterfully blends fresh citrus and aromatic herbs with a warm, woody base. While it may not be a powerhouse, its refined character and impeccable blending make it a worthy addition to any collection, especially for those who appreciate understated elegance.