Florence Roberto Cavalli 2017 female 73

The Verdict

Roberto Cavalli's Florence represents a maturation of the Italian fashion house's fragrance approach. Launched in December 2017 and created by perfumer Marie Salamagne, this chypre-amber composition draws inspiration from Tuscany and delivers something more refined than the brand's typically provocative offerings. It is a fragrance that walks with confidence, bold and demanding without resorting to the overt sexiness that defines much of Cavalli's fragrance portfolio.

Florence is not a fragrance for the faint of heart. The blackcurrant opening hits with considerable force, and the patchouli base makes its presence known throughout the wear. But for those who appreciate intensity with sophistication, this is one of the better designer releases of 2017, offering exceptional longevity and a scent profile that feels genuinely distinctive.

What It Smells Like

The opening is dominated by blackcurrant, which arrives with a juicy, bold, slightly tart intensity that immediately commands attention. Mandarin orange adds a sparkling citrus brightness that keeps the fruit from feeling too dense. Some reviewers have noted a similarity to Joop in this opening phase, though Florence has a more polished, contemporary quality.

The heart reveals orange blossom and hibiscus seed, which introduce a floral warmth and subtle spice that begins to soften the fruit's intensity. Grapefruit blossom adds an unusual, slightly bitter floral note that prevents the composition from becoming too sweet. This middle stage is where Florence begins to reveal its sophistication, the florals acting as a civilizing influence on the wild fruit.

The base is where Florence settles into its true character: rich amber, enveloping musk, and prominent patchouli create a warm, deep foundation that can last for an entire day on skin. The patchouli is the dominant force here, earthy and slightly chocolate-like, providing the structure around which everything else revolves. Reviewers consistently note that Florence smells best once the initial blackcurrant blast calms down and the base notes take center stage.

When to Wear It

Florence is an evening and cold-weather fragrance. Its density and richness make it overpowering in warm temperatures, but in autumn and winter, it wraps around you like an expensive cashmere scarf. The musky trail it leaves is dramatic and attention-getting, making it ideal for nights out, dinners, and occasions where you want to make an impression.

Some wearers have found success wearing it to formal events and sophisticated social gatherings, where its sweet-yet-sophisticated character reads as mature and confident. However, its intensity may be too much for casual daytime situations or conservative office environments.

Longevity & Projection

Longevity is one of Florence's standout qualities. The fragrance routinely delivers 12 or more hours on skin, with some reviewers reporting it lasting 24 hours or more on hair and clothing. This is exceptional performance for a designer fragrance and puts it in competition with many niche offerings.

Projection is strong, particularly in the first few hours. The fragrance creates what reviewers describe as a musky trail of drama, the intensity of which depends on how generously you apply. After the initial burst, projection settles to a moderate level that remains noticeable to those nearby without filling entire rooms.

The Community Says

Community reception is largely positive, with particular praise for the fragrance's longevity and its departure from typical Roberto Cavalli fare. Reviewers on Fragrantica describe the blend as elegant but heavy, rich and deep, walking with confidence. The blackcurrant is frequently cited as the star note, though opinions differ on whether its boldness is a strength or a flaw.

Comparisons to La Vie est Belle by Lancome come up regularly, with Florence generally positioned as the more mature and sophisticated option. Some community members have drawn parallels to Joop due to shared patchouli-forward characteristics, though Florence executes the concept with considerably more finesse.

Who Should Buy This

Florence is ideal for women who want a fragrance that makes a statement. If you enjoy bold compositions built around patchouli, dark fruits, and amber, and you prioritize longevity above all else, this should be on your radar. It also appeals to those who have outgrown overtly sweet designer fragrances and want something with more depth and character.

Avoid this if you are sensitive to patchouli or prefer lighter, fresher compositions. The intensity of the blackcurrant opening also requires a tolerance for bold top notes, though patience is rewarded as the fragrance develops into its sophisticated base.

The Bottom Line

Roberto Cavalli Florence is a confident, well-crafted chypre-amber that proves the Italian house can do sophisticated elegance as well as it does provocative glamour. The blackcurrant-patchouli combination gives it a distinctive signature, and the exceptional longevity ensures you get genuine value from every application. While its boldness will not suit every taste, those who connect with its dramatic Tuscan spirit will find a reliable, impressive evening fragrance.