A deep dive into the rose-woody composition by Jordi Fernández
By Vivir·
In this review
In the realm of niche-inspired fragrances, John Richmond's Unknown Pleasures Lost Rose stands as a testament to the art of modern perfumery. Launched in 2022, this unisex Eau de Parfum is the creation of Spanish perfumer Jordi Fernández, known for his work with brands like Antonio Banderas and Women'Secret. Lost Rose is a flanker to the original Unknown Pleasures, but it carves its own identity with a rich, rose-centric composition that balances woody, spicy, and earthy facets. John Richmond, the British fashion house founded in the 1980s, has a reputation for edgy, rock-chic aesthetics. Its foray into fragrance has produced a line of scents that reflect this bold spirit, and Lost Rose is no exception. The fragrance is housed in a sleek, dark bottle with a rose motif, hinting at the olfactory journey within. As a unisex scent, it challenges traditional gender boundaries, offering a composition that is both assertive and tender. In this review, we will dissect the composition, explore its evolution on the skin, evaluate its performance, and assess its place in the contemporary fragrance landscape. Drawing on verified data from Fragrantica and our own olfactory analysis, we aim to provide a comprehensive portrait of this intriguing release.
The opening is a burst of saffron and bergamot, with a touch of cinnamon adding warmth. The saffron lends a leathery, almost metallic edge, while bergamot provides a fresh, citrusy lift. Cinnamon adds a spicy sweetness that hints at the rose to come. This stage lasts about 30 minutes and sets the stage for a complex heart.
2
Heart1-2 hrs
As the heart emerges, Turkish rose takes center stage, its rich, velvety petals supported by the earthy, woody nuances of cypriol oil (nagarmotha) and oak. Geranium adds a green, rosy facet that enhances the floralcy. The combination is deep and intoxicating, with the rose feeling both lush and grounded by the woody elements. This phase lasts 1-2 hours.
3
Drydown4+ hrs
The base reveals a warm, balsamic blend of woody notes, patchouli, and musk. The patchouli adds an earthy, slightly camphoraceous quality, while the balsamic notes provide a sweet, resinous warmth. Floral notes linger softly, and musk lends a skin-like sensuality. The drydown is smooth and lasting, evolving over 4+ hours into a comforting, woody-rose scent.
Performance Dashboard
Longevity4.0/5
6-8 hours
Projection3.0/5
moderate, denser in the first 1-2 hours
Sillage3.0/5
moderate
When to Wear
SpringOK
SummerAvoid
FallBest
WinterBest
evening weardate nightoffice (light application)
Pros & Cons
+Beautiful rose-woody composition
+Good longevity for an EDP
+Affordable price point
+Versatile for cool weather
−May be too rose-heavy for some
−Moderate projection might disappoint
−Not unique enough for experienced collectors
Price & Value
$35-$85
Excellent value for a 100ml EDP with niche-like quality
Layer with a vanilla-based fragrance to add sweetness
Pair with an oud or woody scent to enhance depth
Final Verdict
John Richmond Unknown Pleasures Lost Rose is a well-crafted rose-woody fragrance that offers impressive quality for its price. While it may not break new ground, it is a solid choice for those seeking a sophisticated, unisex scent for cooler months. Its moderate performance and affordable price make it a worthy addition to any collection.