Anima

Anima by the British house Memoize London, released in 2022, is a dark fruity floral built on oud. Everyone who describes it calls it floral; about two thirds also find it woody, and a minority notice a gourmand side.

Cherry gives the opening a dark, slightly almondy sweetness rather than a bright one. Jasmine and ylang-ylang form the floral heart, creamy and heady, with violet adding a cool, powdery softness that balances their richness. Agarwood sits underneath with a deep, resinous wood, and patchouli adds an earthy, slightly chocolatey depth that suits the cherry.

Anima is worn by anyone. Its dark-fruit and oud character suits autumn and winter and evening wear, and it will appeal to someone who likes white florals but wants them in a moodier setting than usual. The cherry-and-violet pairing gives it a slightly gothic sweetness that sets it apart from brighter jasmine scents.

Anima — unisex fragrance by Memoize London (released 2022). Notes: Agarwood (Oud), Cherry, Jasmine, Patchouli, Violet, Ylang-Ylang. — Parfica open fragrance database