Black Orchid Voile de Fleur Tom Ford 2007 female 119

The Verdict

Black Orchid Voile de Fleur represents Tom Ford's attempt to create a lighter, more approachable version of his iconic 2006 debut fragrance. Launched in 2007 as an eau de toilette, it trades the original's dark, dense sensuality for a sparkling, floral interpretation that aims for romantic prettiness rather than seductive power. The result is a fragrance that divides the community even more than its predecessor.

The flanker was discontinued around 2010, just a few years after release, which suggests it did not find the audience Tom Ford hoped for. Today it exists as a curious footnote in the Black Orchid story, with vintage bottles commanding premium prices on the secondary market more for their rarity than universal acclaim.

What It Smells Like

Voile de Fleur opens with ylang-ylang and blackcurrant, though the latter note has drawn criticism from some reviewers who detect a sour, almost ammonia-like quality in the first twenty minutes. The opening is brighter and more sparkling than the original Black Orchid, with a floral effervescence that feels feminine and light.

The heart is dominated by gardenia, joined by plum, orchid, lily, pepper, and honeysuckle. White flowers take center stage here, creating what reviewers describe as a prettily romantic character. The original's dark truffle-chocolate backbone is still present but much further in the background, occasionally peeking through the floral veil. Some detect a green violet quality alongside the more prominent florals.

The base brings milk, vanilla, patchouli, sandalwood, and cinnamon, but these notes feel comparatively pale next to the original's rich, oriental warmth. The drydown is a soft, clean floral rather than the dark, enveloping experience of Black Orchid proper.

When to Wear It

Voile de Fleur works best as a daytime fragrance for spring and summer. Its lighter, more floral character is well-suited to office settings and casual outings where the original Black Orchid would be overwhelming. Romantic daytime dates and garden gatherings are ideal occasions.

Unlike its darker sibling, this is not an evening fragrance. The airy, sparkling quality that is its main virtue loses its impact in nighttime settings where something bolder would be more appropriate.

Longevity & Projection

Performance is perhaps the most consistent criticism of Voile de Fleur. Some reviewers report the fragrance becoming a skin scent within two and a half hours and fading completely after three and a half hours. While initial projection is substantial in typical Tom Ford fashion, it recedes significantly after the first hour.

This short lifespan is particularly notable given Tom Ford's general reputation for powerful, long-lasting fragrances. The eau de toilette concentration plays a role, but even accounting for that, the performance falls below expectations.

The Community Says

Community opinion is sharply divided. Supporters describe Voile de Fleur as a beautiful reward for those who enjoy floral fragrances, praising its more wearable character and romantic sparkle. The lighter interpretation appeals to those who found the original Black Orchid too heavy or too dark for regular wear.

Detractors are more vocal, with some reviewers finding the fragrance boring, linear, and overwhelmed by gardenia. The disconnect between what people expected, a gentler Black Orchid, and what they received, a straightforward white floral with minimal connection to the original, is a frequent complaint. The short longevity further undermines the value proposition.

Who Should Buy This

Voile de Fleur is best suited for women who specifically enjoy gardenia-forward white floral fragrances and want a touch of the Tom Ford aesthetic in their daytime wardrobe. If you have tried the original Black Orchid and found it too intense, this lighter version may appeal, though be aware that the two fragrances are more different than similar.

Given its discontinued status and premium secondary market prices, buyers should consider whether the relatively modest composition justifies the investment. Sampling before purchasing is strongly recommended.

The Bottom Line

Tom Ford Black Orchid Voile de Fleur is a pleasant enough white floral that suffers from unfavorable comparisons to its iconic predecessor. While it offers greater wearability and a romantic, sparkling quality, its short longevity and linear development leave many reviewers wishing for more. Its quick discontinuation suggests the market agreed.