F.reschissime: the superlative is a must when it comes to colonies, the perfumed waters which, once vaporized, give a sense of well-being and lightness that is typically holidaymakers. Rich in refreshing ingredients (citrus fruits in the first place), here’s how and why they are perfect for summer.
Colonies: the lightest fragrances for the summer
The eau de cologne, especially in the warmer months, becomes an excellent alternative to the classic eau de parfum or eau de toilette. Fresh and almost evanescent, poorly concentrated and often alcohol-freeare now in big trend.
The colonies or fresh waters for the summer (from left Clarisn, Guerlain, Acqua di Parma, Hermés)
Behind the colony there is a history spanning centuries. It was, in fact, introduced to the French court by Caterina de ‘Medici in 1533, on the occasion of his wedding with the future Henry II. At the time, this very light blend of essences of neroli, lavender and rosemary had been formulated by the Officina Profumo Farmaceutica of Santa Maria Novellawhich still produces it today under the name of Queen’s water.
The ancient cologne recipe
But the first real cologne dates back to some time later. In 1725 Gian Paolo Feminis, who moved from the province of Novara to Cologne, began to produce aWaterfall – as he himself called it – based on essences of Italian lime, bergamot, neroli, oranges, lemons and cedars.
Subsequently, its formula was slightly revised by his nephew Johann Maria Farina who renamed it Cologne. Over the centuries it has been appreciated by many illustrious personalities such as Louis XV, Napoleon and Voltaire.
The colony refresh effect
Today the cologne maintains its essential characteristics intact: the citrus heart, the absence of alcoholthe low concentration of perfumed oils (which is between 4% and 6%) and, in addition, it is also genderless.
However, cologne is not very persistent due to its extremely volatile ingredients. Their volatility, colonies can be vaporized in abundance. Ideal for a refresh effect, they do not stain the fabrics.
New, more contemporary interpretations
Today there are many reinterpretations of this great classic of perfumery. Often, for example, citrus fruits are emphasized by others longer lasting olfactory notes, such as musk, vanilla, vetiver, in some cases even patchouli.
And I’m also changed the concentrations of essential oils, increased up to 20% for more persistent but still fresh fragrances. And super summer.
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