The Story
Why it exists.
The beginning
Bella Freud built her label around culturally resonant knitted mantras, phrases stitched into cashmere as quiet acts of self-expression. The sweater slogan Close To My Heart became one of her most recognizable, a phrase that needed no explanation. When translating it into scent in 2016, Azzi Glasser chose to center tuberose absolute, the perfumer's signature material, wrapping it in bright neroli to first capture attention before softening into something more personal.
Glasser selected tuberose as the psychological anchor because of its ability to evoke memory and emotional weight simultaneously. Neroli amplifies this effect by lending clarity and brightness, preventing the tuberose from becoming heavy. The choice of jasmine and rose in the heart creates a classic floral architecture, but the oud and patchouli in the base ensure the fragrance does not remain purely in the floral realm, but extends in a warmer, more woody direction.
The evolution
The opening unfolds in bright neroli and full-bodied tuberose absolute, a blend that jolts before it caresses. Jasmine absolute and rose absolute follow within thirty minutes, deepening the floral heart into something richer and more complex, with jasmine bringing indolic heat and rose adding romantic softness. As the composition enters its drydown, patchouli and moss arrive with an earthy, slightly animalic character. Oud and sandalwood provide the warm woody structure beneath the florals, while musk acts as a tether, keeping the entire composition close to the skin for hours.
Cultural impact
Wearers often remark that Close To My Heart announces itself with a striking tube rose‑neroli flash, then settles into a moss‑laden, oud‑rich drydown that lingers long after the wearer leaves the room. Its strong sillage and eight‑plus hour longevity have made it a favorite for evening events where a memorable, confident scent is desired.
