New Niche Perfume Review: Neil Morris Fragrances Vision in White + Yin and Yang of A Woman Draw

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Last April, when we took you into Neil Morris' "Vault Within a Vault," it caused quite a stir in the fragrance community. After sharing this little secret, we were flooded with inquiries about this private collection, word-of-mouth exclusives accessible only to those in the know.

Marion Cotillard in dior

Marion Cotillard  for Dior Magazine (F/W 2012/13) by Jean-Baptiste

Among these hidden gems was a fragrance I called "time-honored, yet timeless." It reminded me of "something found among the vintage Guerlains or Chanels; treasures from a by-gone era that are entirely relevant today." This haunting creation was Vision in Black, a mysterious accordance of sex and shadow. Neil told us that he "imagined a lovely, dark haired woman arriving late and alone to a swanky party wearing a simple but perfectly fitting black gown … all eyes are upon her and no one is sure who she is." CaFleureBon Editor-in-Chief Michelyn Camen was equally enthralled by Neil's honeysuckle-drenched Vision in Black, and had a vision of her own…

oscar de la renta

Inspiration of A Vision in White Oscar de La Renta vintage sundress

Michelyn sent Neil this photo of an Oscar De La Renta model "whose face cannot be seen, but whose presence cannot be ignored," she mused. A shutter-snap can halt time. This classic image silently speaks of ageless elegance and dignity without decay. This image would serve as the inspiration for Vision in White.

There was once a time when the only restrictions in perfumery were the limits of the imagination. Some precious raw materials, like oakmoss for instance, are being regulated to the degree that the notion of timelessness may become as elusive as time itself. That's why Michelyn and Neil felt that this perfume should be the shutter-snap. These vulnerable ingredients, which define an era, would be used unabashedly. And no, this would not be a common white floral. Like the black light illumination surrounding Neil's first composition, the whiteness in Vision in White would come from its glow, rather than its core.

 vision in white Photographed by Irving Penn, Vogue, July 2004

Photographed by Irving Penn, Vogue, July 2004

I had an instant emotional connection to Vision in Black which was, and is, indescribable in text. Its soul-stirring, albeit mind-escaping, depth can only be reached at a point below the source of thought. I found Vision in Black to have a ghostly presence; I'd call it a retrospectral. There was, perhaps, a glorious melancholy hiding in the shadow across her face. We were uncertain of her expression, we were uncertain if she was real, we only knew she was heartbreakingly beautiful. I was honored (and delighted) when Michelyn and Neil asked me to explore their new vision, now realized.

vision in white perfume  Organdie by Dior, 1953 by Erwin Blumenfeld

Organdie-by Dior 1953 by Erwin-Blumenfeld

Like its predecessor, Vision in White has a luminous intensity, an aura, which appears only when its ingredients are brought together. A healthy dose of aldehydes open the composition, glowing from the very start. The aldehydic sparkle assures that this will be a polarized interpretation of the first perfume, while simultaneously serving as homage to the classic perfumes of yesteryear. The brightness of the opening is further enhanced by bergamot, mandarin and an unexpected hint of peach. The peach note might serve a nod to Guerlain's 1919 masterpiece, Mitsouko. There is a shared radiance texturally, but Vision in White evolves without the earthiness found in the early formulations of Mitsouko. Plum blossom takes us into a more literal whiteness as we move into the heart, though, like plum blossoms, the whiteness is speckled with drops of red, purple and pink.

vintage 40s perfume  white flowers

Vintage gowns 1940s

Jasmine, orchid and gardenia emerge to get your whites whiter. Honeysuckle (beautiful honeysuckle!) links White to Black, a glance in the mirror as you decide between two different, but equally radiant dresses.To ground the composition and to remind us of simpler times, oak moss appears under the whiteness, now forming a spotlight. This is a concert where the artist is playing the song that made her famous, in what might be her final tour.

Marilyn Monroe with Jackie Wig, 1962 by Bert Stern

Marilyn Monroe with Jackie-Wig 1962 by-Bert-Stern.

The glow surrounding both of these fragrances reminds me of the gauzy lenses often used on cameras to make an aging actor appear ageless. The wrinkles in time softened by a hazy, glimmering, illumination which would be there with or without a special lens. It’s the glow of youth, of love, of life. I have always admired the way Neil Morris creates fragrance by capturing moments in time. With his visions in both black and white, he has given us that shutter-snap, a precious gift from those who have come before. We can see ourselves in these photographs. Torn and aged reflections that will always be relevant and meaningful. Moments forever captured in black and white.

neil morris vision in white and vision in black

Thanks to Neil Morris and Neil Morris Fragrances we have a very special draw for a set of 15mL bottles of both Vision in White and Vision in Black perfumes. This is a worldwide draw. To be eligible leave a comment if you think Neil should sell Vision in Black And White on his website and let us know which would be your favorite. The draw will end on July 11, 2013.

We announce the winners only on site and on our Facebook page, so Like Cafleurebon and use our RSS option…or your dream prize will be just spilled perfume.

Michael Devine, Senior Contributor

Art Direction Michelyn Camen, Editor in Chief

Editor's Note: Vision in White and Vision in Black are available now, but as noted, only available to those, like you, who are in the know. Simply go to neilmorrisfragrances.com and order any fragrance in the "vault" section, but — in the comments section upon checkout, indicate that you actually wish to purchase Vision in White or Black, which is the same price as any vault fragrance.

Each perfume is $70.00 per 1 oz. Parfum

$48 per 1 oz. Eau De Parfum

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65 comments

  • These sound lovely – I love anything vintage or anything that tries to capture it.

    Thanks for the drawing!

  • Yes I think it would be wonderful to offer these on Neil’s site
    I am drawn to the light and the reference to mitsouko sealed the deal
    Vision in White edges out Vision in Black but I want both
    Beautiful review but the photos used blew my mind especially
    Marilyn Monroe in the Jackie O wig so much meaning now knowing of her affair with JFK

  • FearsMice says:

    Being one of the few “in the know” definitely has a certain seductive charm — but in the interests of spreading both beauty and democracy, I suppose Neil should offer these on his website… I think Vision in White would be my favorite. Thanks for the draw.

  • Monica H. says:

    I’m torn… part of me wants to stay in the group of “in the know” but the perfumista in me screams “share, share, share” =) so I vote “yay”! Neil should totally offer this on his website so more folks can be exposed to his creations!

    With that I think I’m more of a Vision in Black… muhahah

  • Why, yes, of course Vision In Black and Vision in White should be offered in the Vault! I’d actually like to visit the vault when I next visit my family in New Hampshire.
    I would probably prefer Vision in White, although both sound tempting.

  • I am thinking, no, the fragrances should only be offered in person or by mail, a vintage concept! Thinking in black and white, like an old photo. I would like Vision inBlack since shadow defines light. Thanks for the draw.

  • For the sake of expanding the perfume community, I think the perfumes should be sold on the website. I would love to try the Vision in Black. Thank you for the draw.

  • Dear Mike,

    I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the wonderful words you conjured for Vision In White! You certainly do the perfume justice! And I also want to say hello and thank you to all who comment and will comment. But a special thanks goes to Michelyn for her inspiration. When I was creating VIW I imagined her spraying it on, donning a white sundress and heading out to a late afternoon garden party.
    I am seriously considering putting them both on my website and thanks to all who encouraged me to do so! I am very proud of both these perfumes and hope you who wear them do so in joy and good health!
    Much appreciation, Mike!!!

    Neil

  • They sound beautiful, of course Neil should offer these on his website. Neils creations should be available for perfume lovers alike to try. Neil has some incredible fragrances on his site and both of these sound gorgeous. I would love to try Vision in White. Thank you.

  • I agree. It would be sad to think that someone not “in the know” might miss out on these fragrances (although, assuming they are perusing the website Neil Morris website they will probably strike gold anyway). Vision in White appeals to me slightly more than Vision in Black but I would love to try both. Thanks.

  • My favorite would be White because of the honeysuckle link to Black. The White version would be the one I would select because of the vision of yards of silk and satin it brings to mind. Please enter me in this wonderful give away!

  • What a beautiful review! They both sound lovely as is the whole concept. Of course they should be offered, it would be a shame to keep them hidden.
    I think White would be my pick.

  • Are you kidding me? OF COURSE Mr. Morris should sell both Visions in White and Visions in Black on his website; limited edition only, though. Both of these fragrances sound so special, and while I personally am drawn more to Vision in Black (linden blossom, honeysuckle, black pepper, amber and musks: such a unique combination of bright and mysterious), I’m so glad the draw is for samples of BOTH. Having read the different compositions, and the different visions inspired by each, I think a woman should have both fragrances in her arsenal! Visions in White for daylight, spring, summertime, parties, flirting, dazzling and “accidentally” beguiling; Visions in Black, worn with anticipation of an opportunity to captivate.

    The same woman can be both White and Black — and probably should be. While I’d like to imagine myself to be someone who could wear Visions in Black as a convincing signature scent, I’d still alternate wearing it with Visions in White, so as not to dilute the impact of my signature. What’s so exciting about the two perfumes though, is that they both sound like they’d leave a mesmerizing, unique calling card.

    I hesitate to add this, but I think the names for these perfumes are a bit cliched and romance-novel-sounding. They don’t really suit their namesakes!

  • I would love to try both but slightly prefer the notes in Vision in White, jasmine and gardenia. They most definitely should be sold on the website! Thank you for the draw.

  • I would love to have either or both. I have several Neil Morris fragrances and they never disappoint. I definitely think they should be sold on the website. Thank you for draw opportunity.

  • Chapeau Clack says:

    Thank you for a brilliant review and for the draw.
    Both Visions sound so very gorgeous and unique. Being more than partial to old Guerlains, I absolutely love the idea of vintage references in these fragrances. I lean slightly to Vision in Black, based on its notes, but certainly would be thrilled to try both.
    The aesthetic of black and white, the idea of shutter-snap captured image conveyed through fragrance, the simplistic yet deeply evocative names – as a photographer, I can only begin to say how these fragrances appeal to me on so much more than just olfactory level.
    I think they should be available on the website.

  • You surely cannot deprive the ‘rest of the world’ these perfumes? Website availability would be a must! Vision in Black sounds divine-Michelyn where do you find those photos?

  • I don’t know which to pick, I think I would love both! And most definitely they both should be sold on the website! I know I will be ordering one shortly when I place an order….now to decide which to start with! 🙂 I love Neil’s fragrances, am sampling some right now (loving Rose of Kali).

  • I also vote YES! These both sound so heavenly and a perfect pairing. How visionary of Michelyn. Her perfume and fashion mind certainly work together, then to share this vision with one of the greatest . So perfect. I also would be torn as to which I would choose but I will go with VIW. Micheal such a great descriptive once again.

  • I think these creations should be shared, so, yes, I would love to see them presented on the site
    I’m drawn to “vision in black”
    thanks a lot for the draw

  • I think they should be shared too.
    I like the way Vision in White came about, the inspiration for it,
    but for me I think Black would be a better fit,
    ty

  • francescabelanger says:

    These both sound so fantastic–such a beautiful, evocative review. Hard to choose between the two.

  • Laurentiu says:

    Vision in Black sounds absolutely amazing! It’s description really got me! I would love to try that one!

    Thanks for the giveaway!

  • They both sound amazing, especially Vision in Black. Of course they should be available through the website. It would be sad not to share them.

  • Vision in Black sounds lovely.
    I think Neil Morris should offer both scents on his brand’s website so they get more attention.

  • Timeless elegance….I can’t say I can use those two words when describing most fragrances being churned out today. That is why talented. artisan perfumers like Neil Morris are so invaluable to perfumery. Between the amazing review, the brilliant inspiration and those snapshots of timeless fashion and faces I am almost breathless
    While I am sure both are beautiful , I love that Vision in White is a collaboration. I was reading the original post and there are green tea notes which sound delightful
    Please out these two beauties on your website with your other vault fragrances Mr Morris

  • Fazal Cheema says:

    i think Neil should sell both as a set which could be 15 ml each for parfum or EDP….i am torn between vision in black and vision in white so i will be fine with either of them

  • I think art and beauty should be accessible to all, so Neil, please offer these on your website! They both sound wonderful, but Vision in Black is surely my first choice. Thank you for this amazing draw!

  • Although I like the idea of things being available only to some choice people, I think these fragrances should be sold on the website, art is meant to be shared. I think I would most enjoy Vision in Black.

  • leathermountain says:

    I’ve just begun to appreciate large doses of aldehydes — e.g. Chanel No. 22 — so I’m guessing that White would be particularly intriguing at the moment.

    I am skeptical of limited editions, secret offerings, and the like. It always makes me think: maybe the marketing is more creative than the perfume? So I would support selling stuff wherever you can, and not just online!

  • ringthing says:

    These both sound even more gorgeous than the images that inspired them. And as a believer in democracy in scent, I would love to see them available on the website, just because I feel such beauty should be there for all to share. I think Vision in Black would suit me best, but that’s a very hard choice. Thanks for the draw!

  • Neil should MOST DEFINITELY sell both of these beauties regularly on the site. These both sound like true homages to vintage scent and that radiant aura early 20th century women had in black and white movies. Also being a BIG moss-head I think it is superlative that NM has used not only vintage perfume structure for his inspiration but actually used ingredients like aldehydes and real oak moss (evernia prunasti)!! *SIGH*

    WHICH ONE would I like better? *scratches head* Geez…um-even though I am a more “noir” guy (in general) and VIB sounds amazing-I would probably have to say VIW (by a nose) would most likely be my fave!!

    US reader…thanks so much to NM Cafleurebon and Michael for this most excellent review!! 🙂

  • Call me a sucker for a good white floral–and Vision in White sounds like a great one!–so White would be my go-to. Love hearing the story behind how this fragrance came about!

  • Superb review! Neil does create fragrances that are extremely touching and “spot on” … Obviously both Vision in White and Vision in Black should be added to his gorgeous existing lineup…
    I am an international reader and thank you for this draw!

  • blessedta says:

    I think he should sell it on his website.

    I like to try both but prefer Vision in White.

  • After just a small amount of time has passed, during which those “in the know” have been able to sample and purchase something that feels really special and exclusive, I do think they should be available on the website. Both sound fabulous, and I think would choose white. Thank you for the drawing!

  • I love Neil Morris and his fragrances!!! I haven’t smelled one I haven’t liked yet!! He should DEFINATELY sell those as well on his site and I really can’t choose one of the two to be my favorite, I like them both!!
    Thank you so much for the draw!!

  • I think he should sell it on his website.

    I would love either one, but I’m leaning a little more towards Vision in White.

  • oh lord, what kind of a question is *that* 🙂
    if course he should sell them on his website.
    and it’d be vision in black for me.

  • PatriciaC says:

    Hard to choose both Vision in white and black sound so wonderful-Vision in black i think suits me more. Yes i think he should sell them so many can enjoy.

  • Anything that could be described as retrospectral must be wonderful – so Vision in Black would be my choice!

  • They both sound wonderful, but my preference would be the Vision in White. I absolutely think these should be sold on his website – hope to hear that’s so in the near future!

  • Both fragrances sound incredible, but you hooked me with honeysuckle in Vision In Black. I love that we have the private scoop on Neil Morris’s website!

  • Yes, I agree with most people that the scents should be sold on his website and that they both sound wonderful. If I had to pick, I would slightly edge out Vision in Black because I am usually drawn more to dark scents.

  • Vision in Black would be would be my pick. I love that these can only be ordered by “people in the know”.
    Thanks!!!

  • Both fragrances sound enthralling, but the woman in the black dress making her entrance really captured me. I definitely think the fragrances should be for sale on Neil’s website. If someone reads a review or hears about the fragrance by word of mouth, they may very well want to make a purchase. Thanks for the draw!

  • Of course Neil should sell them online! Theybsound wonderful. For me, Black sounds more enticing than White, but both are intersting. I may have to visit this vault…

  • Vision in Black speaks to me most, but happy to win a set of both! Yes, he should sell them! I love the artwork on this post.

  • Online? And why not, pray tell? They both sound magnificent … but even with a nod to Mitsouko, the Vision in Black sounds like the one I’d buy first…of course, the price is so affordable, why not get both?

  • Someotherspring says:

    Of course these should online: we all WANT them! Did someone say ‘aldehydes’ AND ‘gardenia’? I’d be SO in love with the White…

  • Rebecca Morgan says:

    Yes, they should certainly be sold on the website, since more exposure equals more sales equals more beautiful perfumes being released. But…I do rather like the idea that they are only available to those in the know, like a world wide treasure hunt. Keep it as it is 🙂 I think Vision in White appeals the most to me.

  • Yes, of course ! They should be sold in the website!! For me, the most appealing is Vision in Black.

  • Iphigenia says:

    Undoubtedly, he should sell online because perfumes of this kind should be shared globally by those who are true connoisseurs !
    As for me Vision in black is part of my psycho-synthesis mysterious, dark, sensual … however there is always a part of me that escapes even my very own self …. a very well hidden part … innocent yet playful like a juvenile who seeks pleasure through game ….

  • Vision in Black is the one for me, it sounds both mysterious and sensual. I need to try this one. Neil, you should definitely sell these on your website!

  • Michelle U says:

    Neil Morris should definitely sell Vision in White and Vision in Black on his site. A favorite for me could be Vision in Black!

    Thank you for the draw! ^_^

  • These should ABSOLUTELY be available on his site!(Share the love, Mr. Morris!) I think that Vision in Black sounds very me, although I definitely want to try both at some point.

    Thanks for the draw!

  • They should definitely be available on his site. They both seem like amazing fragrances! Vision in White seems more like my taste.

  • I agree with most saying that they should be available. They sound like beautiful scents. I’d prefer Vision in White, but both seem great.

    Thanks for the draw!

  • They both sound wonderful but i think I’d pick Vision in Black. Of course Neil should sell them online! I can’t wait to try both of these.

  • Hi Mr. Morris! Thank you for responding to my comment. After I wrote it, I saw that you had just posted your message to Mark about the reviews, and I cringed at my having critiqued the names of your fragrances. I’m sorry! They fragrances themselves sound gorgeous, and I look forward to a chance to experience them.