Counterplay is a sweet, warm, fruity scent created for Men and Women in 2024 by perfumer Christelle Laprade.
Review
This scent opens with a blast of Melon. Almost in the vein of juicy, candy-like cosmetics, in a way….but quickly warms into something a little more warm and sweet with Guava and Banana. The floral heart tempers the blend from becoming too sweet, developing a gentle depth from the Sandalwood. Pink Pepper adds a hint of a sparkly quality, and Patchouli adds an interesting spicy sharpness that never becomes too intense. It’s like flirting with a crazy beautiful stranger at the bar who’s been downing fruity drinks all night. They have a sweet and spicy aroma to their aura that is both inviting and mysterious, and it pulls you in a little closer with each long stare; with each secret smile. The juiciness of the Guava and Banana eventually fade into the background, with the Melon staying prominent throughout the dry down, continuously changing through the layers. While it does have a fresh and uplifting, Summertime feel to it, this is a scent that can be worn in any season. It borders between casual and elegant, and can be worn most any time, place, or occasion. It has an aroma like if Creed’s Royal Water had Melon and Guava in it.
Inspiration
Counterplay takes inspiration from the juiciness of a Melon and its summertime vibes, as well as the Chess strategy of a counter play, which is essentially playing in the offense.
Notes
When this scent opens, you get the refreshing juiciness of Melon. Very shortly after, Guava comes in adding its warmer juicy essence. Banana joins in alongside the Guava, adding an essence that is Banana-like and just a generic yellow-fruity essence. In the heart, Osmanthus, Ylang-Ylang, and Orange Blossom add a gentle floral component that never becomes too floral. They add to the warm sweetness of the scent and help to temper too much sweetness. Sandalwood helps to add some depth to the scent and Patchouli brings a subtle sharp spiciness, neither being too much. The Pink Pepper comes in at the end, adding a subtle sparkly quality that keeps things fresh.
Top Notes: Melon, Guava, Banana
Heart Notes: Osmanthus, Ylang-Ylang, Orange Blossom
Base Notes: Sandalwood, Patchouli, Pink Pepper
