NOTTING HILL by Hugh Parsons

When we talk about fragrance notes in a perfume, our thoughts can often go straight to the ingredients rather than considering the texture. However, it’s often the latter that resonates more with a customer. These sensory references play on our emotions, and help us to “feel” the scent in action rather than merely rely on the smell. The idea of texture obviously links perfectly with the world of fashion, and so it’s no surprise that many of these clothing companies have explored the world of fragrances. Hugh Parsons is one of the most recent “reboots” to re-enter the market, and so how would you like a trip to Notting Hill?

The Hugh Parsons name stretches back a staggering 100 years, and is famous for a range of bestselling men’s tie and accessories. Founded in 1925, Hugh Edward Lancelot Parsons launched his eponymous company with the support of his wife, and his success was truly worldwide. Such was the demand for a Hugh Parsons accessory that he earned a place on the renowned Regent Street in London, at number 99 to be precise, but as is often the way, the name unfortunately fell out of public consciousness. However, there was a plan “stitched together” with the aim to revitalise and relaunch this historic brand.

The company took the bold decision to dip their toes into the fragrance industry in 1998, and their first release captured the imagination. Named Traditional, this citrus aromatic cologne appealed to the suited gent, and the name of Hugh Parsons was back. Over the following years there would be another ten fragrances launched, which took London locations as their inspiration, before the range was condensed down to a core eight fragrances - Traditional, 99 Regent Street, King’s Road, Oxford Circus, Whitehall, Bond Street, Saville Row and Notting Hill. It’s an enviable collection, but it’s time we took a trip to W11.

Notting Hill is probably most famous now for the 1999 film starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, but there is so much more to this area. Whether you’re looking at the pastel-painted houses, revelling in the Notting Hill Carnival, or browsing for antiques and curiosities in the Portobello Road Market, the bohemian lives on display famously rub comfortably against the more wealthy neighbours. It’s this melting pot that Hugh Parsons wanted to create in their Notting Hill fragrance, and that promise has most definitely been achieved. Embodying “energy, vivacity and a touch of madness”, are you ready to head West?

Notting Hill opens with a vibrant, need-sharp citrus blend of bergamot and lemon along with a touch of ginger, and that spice links beautifully with the whisper of incense that also starts to come through. This bohemian opening then welcomes a watery lavender that’s accented by pink pepper, so the aromatic aspect is given that promised energy hit that’s so associated with the area. You have a floral note in here with the jasmine and waxy magnolia, but very much as a background support to the scent, but the arrival of an earthy vetiver and pine-tinged musk heralds the open spaces that are found scattered throughout the postcode. So, whether you’re suited and booted or relaxed and ready, Notting Hill is a great addition to your collection.

Notting Hill is available from the Hugh Parsons website at hughparsons.com, and also The Perfume Shop, priced at £95 for 100ml. [Sample provided by Agence de Parfumerie]