Vilhelm Parfumerie 125th & Bloom Review: A Floral Tribute to New York

Vilhelm Parfumerie is known for crafting olfactory stories that transport you to specific times and places. Their latest release, 125th & Bloom, is a floral tribute to New York City—specifically the vibrant energy of Harlem's 125th Street and the blooming beauty of its community gardens. This review explores the scent's composition, performance, and how it fits into the Vilhelm Parfumerie collection.

As a floral perfume with a distinctly urban edge, 125th & Bloom promises to capture the juxtaposition of concrete and petals. I tested it over several days to evaluate its longevity, sillage, and overall appeal. Let's dive into the notes and experience.

Fragrance Notes and Composition

125th & Bloom opens with a burst of fresh bergamot and pink pepper, creating a sparkling, slightly spicy introduction. The heart is a lush bouquet of magnolia, jasmine, and lily of the valley—floral notes that feel both classic and modern. The base settles into a warm, creamy blend of sandalwood, musk, and a touch of vanilla, grounding the fragrance with a soft, comforting finish.

This composition is well-balanced, with the florals never becoming overpowering. The pepper adds an unexpected twist that keeps the scent interesting. It's a floral perfume that feels sophisticated yet approachable, perfect for daytime wear in spring or summer.

• Top notes: Bergamot, Pink Pepper
• Heart notes: Magnolia, Jasmine, Lily of the Valley
• Base notes: Sandalwood, Musk, Vanilla

Longevity and Sillage

In terms of longevity, 125th & Bloom performs moderately well. On my skin, it lasted around 5 to 6 hours, with the floral heart lingering for the first few hours before fading into a soft musky base. The sillage is moderate—close to the skin after the initial hour, but noticeable enough to draw compliments. It's not a beast mode fragrance, but it's perfect for office or casual outings.

For those who prefer a stronger projection, layering with a complementary scent or applying to pulse points can help extend its presence. Compared to other Vilhelm Parfumerie florals like Dear Polly, this one is more airy and less sweet.

• Longevity: 5-6 hours on skin
• Sillage: Moderate, intimate after 1 hour

Comparison with Other Vilhelm Scents

Vilhelm Parfumerie has a diverse portfolio, from the citrusy Black Citrus to the gourmand Mango Skin. 125th & Bloom stands out as a pure floral, but it shares a certain New York sensibility with Chicago High, which captures the spirit of Chicago. If you enjoy the storytelling aspect of Vilhelm, this fragrance will resonate.

For fans of floral perfumes, 125th & Bloom is a must-try. It's less fruity than Mango Skin and less woody than The Oud Affair, making it a unique addition to any collection.

125th & Bloom is a beautiful floral perfume that captures the essence of New York City's vibrant energy and natural beauty. With its well-crafted notes and moderate performance, it's a versatile scent for daily wear. If you're looking to add a floral with character to your rotation, explore the Vilhelm Parfumerie collection and discover this tribute to the city that never sleeps.