After a lengthy sabbatical, Sali Hughes is ready to let fig fragrances back into her life. For years, Diptyque's Philosykos was a favorite, but a wave of sugary, inferior dupes sullied the category. Now, a new crop of figs is emerging to restore its reputation.
Tom Ford Figue Erotique
Tom Ford's Figue Erotique takes fig at various stages of its life cycle: sharp, nutty, green and unripe; rich, juicy, warm and sun-drenched; and finally sugary, creamy and ready to burst. Bigger and bolder than most, it has a sultry, musky sexiness. For a lighter option, Chloé's Plage du Figuier is recommended for heatwaves.
Prada Infusion de Figue
Prada's Infusion de Figue is described as the just-poured Guinness of fragrances – you have to wait to get the best of it. It deals with unripened figs – woody, sappy and fresh – with gentle sweetness and a touch of mandarin zest. It's decent on first spray and delightful an hour later.
Roger&Gallet Fleur de Figuier
Roger&Gallet's fig is pulpy, bright and cheerful, with stacks of vibrant citrus fruits. Green notes keep it grownup, and cumin appears warm and woody without weighing down the scent. Imagine fig as a Starburst sweet.
The Undisputed Classic
Hughes still believes Diptyque's Philosykos cannot be beaten. It remains a perfect fragrance and the reference point for all other fig scents, now ripe for a comeback.
