Contradictory combinations often end up making the most sense. My nose was initially confused by OLO’s Violet/Leather perfume oil. Inspired by the Mark Twain quote, “Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it,” as the company describes the scent, “It smells like violet, it smells like leather.” Indeed, it does. I couldn’t stop sniffing it, trying to understand the bittersweet fragrance, a perfect balance of anger and acceptance. The fashion savvy often talk about how the perfect outfit is a balance of hard and soft. I’ve decided that the same goes for fragrances. [$45, OLO]
