Symmetry by Sarah Baker Perfumes

Symmetry, a part of the new Eau de Parfum collection (2020) is a light and refreshing yet deep blend of citrus and oud.

Symmetry is a perfectly chosen name:
The composition Chris Maurice created focuses on the balance and dynamic interplay of what we usually perceive as top and bottom notes. Still, the overall effect is closer to symmetrical complementing than contrast.

The sparkling, citrusy, and light yet intensely woody composition introduces oud, which doesn’t seem massive at all; it’s not animalic – just distinctive and pleasantly dark.

What particularly delighted me is that the oud is lifted to the top of the composition and intertwines with the sparkling citruses almost immediately upon the opening. Illuminated by the sharper petitgrain and bergamot, it feels smooth and provides an airy depth.

I sensed an aromatic, greenish cypriol that mimics oud, and provides aromatic, greenish facets in the middle phase of development, as if the citruses had “handed off the baton” so the oud note could remain illuminated and dark-smooth.

I initially associated the first phases of development with the concept of eau de cologne. Still, that reference quickly faded: this is not a perfume that refreshes, lifts, and then disappears, but one that envelops and stays present.

Closer to the skin and towards the drydown, Symmetry oud lends a bit of darkness to the also smooth and clean musk, which then smells more human, still fresh, but not sterile.

I wore Symmetry on a hot summer day, and its base, when exposed to warm weather, smelled amazing: clean, fresh, yet dark and full of character.