The Story
Why it exists.
The beginning
Ledda launched in November 2022 as a direct-to-consumer fragrance house founded by beauty influencer Stephanie Ledda. After eighteen months of development, the brand debuted with a philosophy rooted in accessibility and ethical formulation. Orris 22 arrived in 2023 as the flagship, conceived as a luxurious yet approachable scent built around the prized orris root. Perfumer Frank Voelkl, known for his work across multiple houses, approached the brief with restraint, treating the orris as the structural anchor rather than an afterthought. The formulation is vegan and cruelty-free, reflecting the brand's broader commitment to clean beauty values.
The note selection reflects a deliberate balance between brightness and warmth. Pear leaf and pink pepper open the composition with an invigorating quality that prevents the florals from feeling heavy. Lily of the valley and jasmine form the emotional heart, chosen for their ability to complement rather than compete with the orris root. The drydown pairs musk with moss and sandalwood to create a warm, skin-close finish that extends longevity without aggressive projection. This structural approach ensures Orris 22 wears closely and intimately, suited for daily use while retaining enough sophistication for special occasions.
The evolution
The fragrance begins with a crisp, green opening courtesy of pear leaf, quickly joined by the faint sparkle of pink pepper and the clean floral whisper of freesia. This phase establishes an immediate sense of lightness and approachability. Within minutes, the heart emerges as lily of the valley and jasmine intertwine around the central orris root, creating a sheer but luxurious floral presence. The orris root carries its characteristic powdery, violet-like depth here, lending an almost buttery richness that distinguishes this from simpler floral fragrances. As the hours pass, the drydown takes over with musk providing intimate softness, moss adding earthy grounding, and sandalwood delivering the creamy woody finish that allows the composition to linger gracefully on skin.
Cultural impact
Community discussions position Orris 22 as a quality alternative to warmer iris scents like Glossier You. The intimate sillage means it doesn't fill rooms, making it well-suited for those who prefer their fragrance to remain personal and unobtrusive. The buttery orris and warm musk create a sophisticated impression without announcing itself, offering a refined approach to scent that appeals to those seeking something more subtle than traditional projection.
