Neon Garden.

Neon Garden emerged in 2022 from the mind of perfumer Fanny Bal, who translated Dries Van Noten’s private garden into a scent. The collection’s Art of Contrast concept inspired a fragrance that captures the electric glow of neon against the organic hush of foliage. By visiting the designer’s 19th‑century estate garden, Bal harvested the raw green energy that fuels the opening, then sculpted it with the house’s signature powdery elegance.

The pairing of spearmint and peppermint creates a sharp, cooling burst that feels like a sudden flash of light on a leaf. Layered with iris, the composition gains a soft, almost tactile powder that softens the mint’s edge, while French carrot seed adds an earthy, slightly sweet undertone. This contrast mirrors the garden’s duality, wild, vibrant growth tempered by cultivated, refined design.

The first thirty seconds explode with a crisp mint duo, spearmint and peppermint, that clears the air like a cold breeze through neon‑lit hedges. As the chill settles, the heart unfurls, iris spreads a velvety, powdery cloud, reminiscent of freshly pressed petals, while carrot seed injects a subtle, earthy sweetness that grounds the composition. Midway, the synthetic amber of ambroxan emerges, adding a luminous, almost metallic warmth that bridges the green freshness with the skin‑hugging base. Finally, musk settles in, soft and intimate, leaving a lingering trail that feels like the faint afterglow of neon reflected on wet pavement. The drydown persists for six to eight hours, staying close to the skin without overwhelming, allowing the garden’s neon pulse to echo throughout the day.

Since its 2022 debut, Neon Garden has been noted for its unconventional mint‑iris duet, a combination that sets it apart from typical citrus‑green offerings. Reviewers often compare its synthetic amber drydown to the modern aesthetic of 1979 New Wave, while its powdery heart recalls the elegance of Dior Homme Intense. The fragrance has found a niche among those who appreciate a garden‑inspired scent that feels both fresh and slightly futuristic, earning a modest cult following in boutique circles.