Tudor: A Timeless Scent Worth Reviving
I'll be the first to admit it: Tudor by Avon is a scent that's deeply rooted in my past. Released almost 20 years ago, it's become a classic and a signature scent for the brand.
Growing up in the post-Soviet space, I remember Tudor being a familiar name to almost every woman - it was either her scent, or her mom's, or her school teacher's, or even her colleague's.
With so much said about Tudor, I wanted to share my own thoughts on it, with the perspective of someone who's experienced the rise and fall of this scent's popularity.
So, let's get started.
Tudor was released in 2004, and I've got a mini-bottle of the scent from 2018, so it's at least 6 years old. Some people complain about new releases being watered down, but I'm curious to see if that's true.
The perfumer behind Tudor is Olivier Cresp, who created dozens of hit fragrances in the early 2000s, including Black Opium, Light Blue, Angel, and Nina Ricci Nina.
As for where to buy it, new versions are available everywhere, while older ones can be found on the secondary market. My mini-bottle came from my mom, who became allergic to fragrances and can no longer use them.
The price is around 380 rubles for a 10ml bottle, which is a pretty standard concentration of Eau De Parfume. I've got a 10ml bottle, but there are also 30ml, 50ml, and 100ml versions available.
A quick look at the packaging: my mini-bottle has the old design, with the phrase 'Today Tomorrow Always Forever' written horizontally in one line. There's a sticker at the bottom with the words 'Made in Poland'. The liquid has turned a rich golden-yellow color - I know the new versions are lighter. The cap is gold, unlike the black one on my Tomorrow mini-bottle.
Now, let's talk about the scent itself.
Tudor is a floral scent, and it's one of those classic, carefree fragrances that's perfect for everyday wear. It's not too overpowering, but it's definitely noticeable.
The top notes are Freesia, Cactus, and Stephanotis, but to be honest, I'm not really sure what half of these components smell like. Instead, I'll describe how I feel when I wear it.
When I first tried the new version of Tudor, it came across as a bit of a letdown – it smelled like some kind of glass cleaner. But my old version sounds way more strict and rich.
There are definitely retro vibes to Tudor, but it's not bad, not outdated. It's like Elizabeth Arden 5th Avenue in terms of mood.
The composition is so cohesive that I can't pick out any individual notes. It's just super bright and floral, even a bit honey-like. Maybe it's the tuberose, maybe it's the jasmine, maybe it's the lily of the valley – probably all three.
Tudor is super recognizable, and I think its dry down is unique – you can't mistake it for another scent. It's a good, sunny scent.
I remember the ad campaign with Salma Hayek – that's 100% my vision of the brand. A woman in her 40s, calm and confident, focused on herself without all the drama, classic style – pedal pushers, beige coat, handbag (not a backpack). She's either a teacher or an office worker. Not a workaholic, knows how to relax.
I think Olivier Cresp had that concept in mind when creating the composition. As the scent fell out of favor over time, it's no surprise that some people have mixed feelings about it.
I have to admit, I don't feel comfortable wearing this. To me, it just doesn't feel right for today's fast-paced life, and other factors. Maybe I'll appreciate it in 15 years, but for now, it feels like something from a different era.
For me, it's a symbol of a bygone era, one that's not too distant, but already in the past. Still, I'm not sure if the scent will get a second wind and regain popularity, although anything's possible.
What about the technical specs?
I'm not sure how well a six-year-old scent will hold up, and I don't know about the longevity of new releases. My bottle, however, is surprisingly long-lasting and diffusive – it really sinks into your skin.
Who's it for?
Women who love classic floral scents and aren't put off by a familiar signature.
Seasonal or not?
It's a year-round scent.
Would I recommend it?
I have a lot of respect for the Tudor scent, but I think women in post-Soviet countries have already been traumatized by it (that's a joke). People used to douse themselves in it, especially on hot days in crowded public transportation. As a result, the scent's reputation has been skewed, and it's hard to separate the facts from the fiction.
Objectively, it's a good scent, but it feels like something from the past.
Tudor is a scent that's worth trying, especially if you're a fan of classic florals. It's not perfect, but it's a great representation of the 2000s perfume scene. If you're looking for a scent that's both recognizable and unique, Tudor might be the perfect choice for you.
However, if you're looking for something modern and trendy, you might want to look elsewhere. Tudor is a scent that's deeply rooted in the past, and it shows.
So, if you're feeling nostalgic or just want to try something different, Tudor is definitely worth a try. Just be prepared for the fact that it might not be the most modern or trendy scent out there.
Unique dry down
Recognizable and classic
Perfect for everyday wear
Long-lasting and diffusive
Year-round scent
May not be suitable for modern tastes
Reputation has been skewed by overuse
Not perfect, but a great representation of the 2000s perfume scene
May not be the best choice for those looking for something trendy
Rating: 3.5/5
Overall, Tudor is a scent that's worth trying, especially if you're a fan of classic florals. It's not perfect, but it's a great representation of the 2000s perfume scene. If you're looking for a scent that's both recognizable and unique, Tudor might be the perfect choice for you.
However, if you're looking for something modern and trendy, you might want to look elsewhere. Tudor is a scent that's deeply rooted in the past, and it shows.
So, if you're feeling nostalgic or just want to try something different, Tudor is definitely worth a try. Just be prepared for the fact that it might not be the most modern or trendy scent out there.
Thanks for reading, everyone!