Imaginary Authors Fragrance review
Imaginary Authors Mind Games Review: Gourmand Spicy Scent
Christelle Laprade's 2022 extrait de parfum blends dark chocolate, spice, and wood for a bold unisex fragrance.
In this review
Released in 2022, Imaginary Authors Mind Games is a luxury extrait de parfum that challenges conventional scent categories. Crafted by perfumer Christelle Laprade, it presents a complex blend of gourmand, spicy, and woody accords, targeting a unisex audience. This fragrance stands out for its bold use of dark chocolate and exotic spices, offering a sophisticated and memorable olfactory journey. As part of the niche brand Imaginary Authors, Mind Games reflects the house's commitment to narrative-driven perfumery, inviting wearers to engage with scent as an art form.
$115-$375
Accords
Gourmand
Sweet
Spicy
Oriental
Woody
Notes Pyramid
Top
Orange bittersPimentoPink pepper
Heart
AgaveGeraniumMadagascan cinnamon
Base
Dark chocolateBourbon vanillaIndian sandalwoodBourbon vetiver
Performance Dashboard
Longevity
12-14 hours
Projection
Strong initially, projecting arm's length, then softening to a skin scent after 6 hours
Sillage
Moderate to heavy, leaving a noticeable trail for the first 4-6 hours
When to Wear
SpringOK
SummerOK
FallBest
WinterBest
Evening wearDate nightsFormal eventsCool weather outings
Pros & Cons
- Unique and memorable scent profile
- Excellent longevity due to extrait de parfum concentration
- High-quality, natural-smelling ingredients
- May be too intense for hot weather or close quarters
- Premium price point may not suit all budgets
Price & Value
$115-$375
“Premium for an extrait de parfum, but justified by the quality of ingredients and complexity of the blend, offering good value for niche fragrance collectors.”
Reformulation History
No significant batch variations reported
Explore More
Similar Fragrances
Spicebomb by Viktor & Rolf
Clone Alternatives
None widely recognized due to its niche status
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Layering Ideas
- Layer with a fresh citrus scent like Atelier Cologne Orange Sanguine to brighten the top notes
- Combine with a vanilla-focused fragrance such as Maison Francis Kurkdjian Grand Soir for a sweeter dry-down
Final Verdict
Imaginary Authors Mind Games is a masterful blend of gourmand and spicy notes that offers a unique and long-lasting scent experience. While best suited for cooler weather and evening wear, its unisex appeal makes it a versatile addition to any fragrance collection. Recommended for those seeking a bold and sophisticated fragrance with narrative depth.
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gourmandspicyunisexextrait de parfumluxury fragrance2022 release