It’s not often that a fragrance launch garners the attention of multiple beauty editors. With so many perfume brands out there, new launches can feel a little overwhelming. But there have been whispers of excitement across the industry lately, as many of us gear up for the biggest fragrance launches of the year. I was lucky enough to get my hands on this product a few weeks ago and I have no doubt that this is worth the hype.
If you don’t know which perfume I’m wearing, I’ll let you know. I’m sure you’ve all heard of the cult makeup brand Merit. The brand has become a beauty editor staple thanks to its quick, easy, natural-looking formulas and clean, minimal packaging. From its hot flash balm to its makeup collaboration with fashion brand Tove, this is definitely the brand you need to know about this season.
So you can imagine my excitement when I heard that Merit was launching its first-ever fragrance. This perfume is just as stylish as you would expect and gives me all the cool, clean, expensive-looking vibes I’m trying to channel this fall. If you’re looking for a new signature scent, we highly recommend you keep scrolling.
Merit Retrospect Perfume Review
Key notes: bergamot, pear, ambrette, aldehyde, jasmine, rose, rosemary, violet, orris, vanilla, musk, moss
Pros: More affordable than most luxury perfumes, chic packaging, expensive scents, great for everyday wear
Cons: Requires replenishment throughout the day for lasting effects
Customer Review: In true Merritt fashion, the packaging of this perfume is amazing. As for the scent, it has a sophisticated, elegant, and clean scent. It’s not overpowering and I found myself liking the scent even more if I wore it all day. This note is especially perfect for fall/winter and is a nice everyday perfume.
What does Merit Retrospect smell like?
The question on everyone’s mind is, what does this perfume actually smell like? Created by leading perfumer Fanny Ball (who is responsible for the scents of multiple fragrances including Frédéric Malle, Givenchy, and YSL), this scent is multi-layered to express a variety of scent profiles, from woody to fresh to floral. We are taking a practical approach.
The first spritz welcomes juicy pear and fresh bergamot, before rich jasmine and rose take center stage. Notes of moss lend an earthy feel, while vanilla and musk add a warm, sensual edge.
If I were to describe it in three words, I would say it’s clean, soft, and luxurious. It definitely smells like skin, with a delicate beginning, then dries down to a musky, heady base. I like to think of it as an alternative scent to my favorite cashmere jumper. It’s certainly an expensive scent, but there’s a pleasant sweetness underlying it that makes you want to wear it again and again.
How long does a benefit retrospective last?
Another question I often get asked is whether this perfume lasts. Interestingly, this concentrated formula is made up of almost 30% fragrance oil and has a lower alcohol content, which allows the scent to linger on your skin much longer than regular perfumes.
That being said, it is softer and has a more delicate scent, so I found myself replenishing it a little throughout the day. You don’t have to do this, but if you want your perfume to have a little more impact, we recommend keeping it in your handbag and sprinkling it here and there from time to time.
Is there value in reviewing benefits?
Overall, I can see why this fragrance has so much hype. We knew it was going to be good, and the brand exceeded all expectations with this launch. Not only is the bottle itself a work of art, but its scent is also a great example of how delicate, skin-like scents can have just as much impact as punchier options on the market. If you are looking for a new perfume this fall/winter, please give it a try.
Review of shop benefits
Key notes: bergamot, pear, ambrette, aldehyde, jasmine, rose, rosemary, violet, orris, vanilla, musk, moss
Be sure to get your hands on this popular scent before it’s sold out.
Shop More Benefits Favorites
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memoir
This limited edition book was created in collaboration with The Gentlewoman and explores the art of fragrance. This is a great addition to your coffee table if you ask me.
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minimalist
The only base product you need in your makeup bag.
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excellent skin moisturizer
Merit recently launched a moisturizer. Light creams are perfect for preparing your skin before makeup.
merit beauty
mini flash balm trio
The Flash Balm is one of the best blushes I’ve tried. This set will be the first thing on my Christmas list.
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dress code set
Also check out this set that includes three of the brand’s popular lipsticks.
If you want a dewy glow without any shine, this is the highlighter for you.
The perfect mascara for every day.
