The magical world of fragrances! Puredistance Papilio – the journey of a butterfly

 The art of perfumery never ceases to amaze me. Invisible to the eye, yet capable of awakening the deepest emotions within us. When a new fragrance is born, I feel so much joy and excitement. The anticipation, imagining how it would smell on my skin… 

Earlier this year, when I found out that Puredistance will release a Papilio I was very happy, and the concept intrigued me. I hid in a cocoon for many, many years but recently found my way out. I am now free!

 

In the tapestry of life, each of us is born with a unique essence, a core eager to be discovered and embraced. Just like a butterfly emerges from its cocoon, I too had the innate ability to transform, to shed the layers that no longer served me and to reveal my authentic self to the world. The journey of self-discovery, much like that of a butterfly, is a beautiful process that requires patience, a lot of courage, and a deep sense of acceptance. 

 

“Human beings are not born once and for all on the day their mothers give birth to them, but life obliges them over and over again to give birth to themselves” - Gabriel García Márquez

 

A butterfly's journey begins in the safety of a cocoon, a protective shell that shelters it from the world as it undergoes remarkable metamorphosis. Similarly, I often found myself encapsulated by societal expectations, self-doubt, and fear of judgment. I often conformed to the expectations of others, suppressing my true desires, talents, and dreams. However, the cocoon is not meant to be a permanent abode; it is merely a temporary stage in our evolution.

 

“And now here is my secret, a very simple secret: It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.” - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

 

Within the confines of the cocoon, a profound transformation occurs. The caterpillar's body disassembles and reconstructs itself, forming wings and a new identity. Similarly, my journey towards self-discovery required for me to embrace vulnerability and let go of the familiar. I’ve had to be willing to dismantle the walls I have built around myself and confront my fears, doubts, and insecurities. 

 

”This life is mine alone. So I have stopped asking people for directions to places they've never been” - Glennon Doyle

 

As the butterfly emerges from its chrysalis, it unfolds its delicate wings, revealing vibrant colors and intricate patterns. The once earthbound caterpillar now possesses the ability to explore new heights and horizons. In the same way, when I embraced my authentic self, I was able to unlock my true potential. I understood that my unique gifts, passions, and perspectives were released, allowing me to express my creativity and contribute meaningfully to the world around me. 

 

”When you make the finding yourself - even if you're the last person on Earth to see the light - you'll never forget it” - Carl Sagan

 

Butterflies navigate their way through a world of uncertainty, their wings carrying them through various seasons and landscapes. They exemplify resilience and adaptability as they face the winds of change. Likewise, my journey of self-discovery is not devoid of challenges. I constantly encounter obstacles, setbacks, and periods of uncertainty. However, I must persevere and develop the resilience to overcome adversity and adapt to life's ever-changing circumstances. Just as the butterfly relies on the strength of its wings, I discovered the power within me to face the unknown.

 

When a butterfly takes flight, its beauty captivates those who behold it. Its transformative journey becomes an inspiration for all who witness its graceful dance. I hope that by embracing my true self, I became a beacon of authenticity, radiating a light that encourages others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery. By sharing my story, I aspire to create a ripple effect, encouraging others to shed their cocoons.

 

In the magnificent journey of a butterfly, we find the beautiful metaphor for embracing our true selves. Just as the butterfly emerges from its cocoon, we too possess the inherent ability to transform, grow, and unleash our full potential. We not only discover our true selves but also contribute to a more vibrant and compassionate world. 

 

“I am who I am and I have the need to be.” - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

 

Papilio, the latest fragrance by Puredistance Master Perfumes, made its debut on September 15, 2023, taking the place of Antonia within the Magnificent XII Collection. 

 

The inspiration for Papilio's exquisite fragrance stemmed from Nathalie Feisthauer's creative vision, initiated back in 2020. The inception of this project occurred when Jan Ewoud Vos, immersed in the tranquil confines of his home in Ameland, was captivated by the graceful dance of butterflies amid nature's embrace. This serene observation sparked a contemplation on the journey of metamorphosis – from the delicate egg to the resilient caterpillar, cocooned in a chrysalis, and finally emerging as a beautiful butterfly. It was in this moment that the idea of Papilio (Latin for butterfly) was born, envisioned as a new olfactory masterpiece for Puredistance Master Perfumes.

 

True to the House's uncompromising standards, Papilio is crafted in the distinguished Pure Parfum Extrait concentration, boasting a 25% extract. Its olfactory composition showcases bergamot at the pinnacle, a harmonious blend of magnolia, neroli, carrot seeds, iris, lily of the valley, hedione, and heliotrope at its heart, and a rich base featuring cedar, vetiver, amyris, ambroxan, opoponax, benzoin, vanilla, peach, ambrette seeds, cashmere, and muscenone.

 

I find Papilio to be a very intriguing scent. Not entirely feminine, nor masculine, the fragrance plays an elaborate game of hide and seek with my senses. Both comforting and elevating, Papilio is the kind of perfume that becomes a safe place for the one who wears it. 

 

To my nose, Papilio openes up with a delicate bouquet of flowers. Picturesque magnolias, colorful heliotrope, luminous neroli and lily of the valley step into the light, like a warm hug. ”What a diaphanous scent!”, I said to myself. Then, something changed. A new facet of Papilio was revealed. 

A harmoniously crafted fusion of woody notes intertwined with supple leather and a rather fruity-floral accord emerged. Luscious, juicy peaches, soft suede and cedarwood create an elegant and kind of a masculine effect on my skin. Papilio becomes an infusion of power, whispering at my ear: ”You can do it! The world is your oyster!” and what an amazing feeling that is, to feel confident, to know both your weak points and your strength and own them both gracefully! 

 

As time goes by, Papilio blends perfectly into my skin. I get whiffs of perfume with every move I make. We are one. The longevity is exceptional, with an arm length sillage. 

 

Papilio is true to the Puredistance spirit and vision – a timeless scent, not following the trends. A fragrance that was born in one’s heart before materializing. Perfect for a signature scent and just as amazing as a comfort scent. Just like a butterfly, Papilio spreads its wings and leaves nothing but beauty and elegance behind.