Once Upon A Garden.

Once Upon A Garden was born from La Perla's desire to bottle the feeling of a secret summer hideaway. In 2021, perfumer Caroline Dumur set out to translate a youthful garden stroll into scent, drawing on bright mandarin, peppery spice and a minty breeze that whisper of early evenings among blooming flowers. The name evokes that private, almost cinematic moment when petals and sunlight collide, a nod to the brand's heritage of intimate, body‑centric luxury.

What makes the composition stand out is the daring trio of mandarin orange, pink pepper and mint at the top, an uncommon fresh‑spicy combo that instantly awakens the senses. The heart leans into a sweet pea and rose duet, softened by raspberry leaf, giving the fragrance a green‑sweet duality. Finally, the earthy base of moss, patchouli and Ambertonic® anchors the airy opening, creating a lingering warmth that feels both natural and slightly synthetic, a hallmark of modern gourmand‑green blends.

The scent begins with a burst of mandarin orange and pink pepper that awakens the senses, then unfolds into a cool mint heart intertwined with sweet pea and raspberry leaf, finally settling into an earthy foundation of patchouli, moss, and Ambertonic® that lingers gracefully throughout the day, creating a narrative of garden freshness evolving into subtle depth.

Since its 2021 debut, Once Upon A Garden has been noted for its fresh‑green take on the modern floral niche, often compared to Acqua di Giò’s aquatic vibe and Florabotanica’s botanical richness. Wearers cite it as a summer‑evening staple, a scent that feels both youthful and refined, fitting casual brunches as well as intimate rooftop gatherings.