Viktor Obelnitskii

Viktor Obelnitskii

Feb. 16, 2026

5/5

5

It's been hard to expect anything outstanding from Tom Ford lately - none of the new fragrances have gained the same popularity as Tobacco Vanille or Tuscan Leather. Although I'm not a fan of the latter, I understand why they are so loved. It seems the designer is either tired or has handed over creative control to someone else. I tried the new release just to write this review and stay informed. But Lavender Extreme surprised me. From the blotter, it diffused a soft creamy-lavender light, bloomed with many ash-violet flowers, and elegantly passed from nose to heart without encountering any obstacles. It's an incredible beauty. The modern Russian consumer's attitude towards this ingredient is changing: lavender is less and less associated with protecting fur coats from moths. Lavender Extreme is the perfect product that can take a worthy place on the pedestal. It's about lavender, about its flowers that smell fresh and sweet. Woody-camphor notes are only audible at the beginning, but they don't spoil the overall impression. Structurally, it's a classic fougère with citruses and coumarin, but I don't remember anything quite so beautiful. The main accord is lavender, vanilla, tonka beans, and mossy-labdanum amber. Labdanum and oakmoss, along with a light violet and cinnamon, give the composition a retro hue, which only enhances its beauty. The vanilla-coumarin sweetness seems to bathe in yellow light, nourishing the fragrance and swaying on the waves. Lavender Extreme has a perfect contrast: between the sexuality of Tom Ford products and an aristocratic old-fashionedness that feels new. The fragrance is relevant and timeless; it could have been in Chanel's boutique line - such refined motifs are not typical for Tom Ford. There is no vulgarity or straightforwardness here, but there is restraint, pedigree, and elegance. The balance of accords is impressive