The top notes of Versace Crystal Noir are lively: a combo of cardamom, pepper and ginger. You are mostly likely to smell these as soon as you spray it on. Once it dries down a bit, you’re greeted with a floral chaser — the smell of gardenia, peony, and orange blossom. After an evening out, you’ll find that the fragrance has mellowed down to a gentle amber and sandalwood aroma — bringing the entire experience from spicy and sexy to pretty and soothing.
How I Tested It
I wore Versace Crystal Noir to a few evening events — drinks with friends and some holiday parties. The scent felt like it paired best with a slinky black slip dress, heels, and a deep burgundy lipstick (and I did as she commanded). The compliments were bountiful, but even without turning heads, I felt confident wearing the fragrance.
With one spritz shared between both wrists and another on the décolleté, it lasted several hours at its peppery, attention-stealing best — before mellowing out to a delicate and warm floral aroma.
After taking it on several tours of the city at night, I spotted a TikTok that recommended layering it with Tom Ford Soleil Blanc. I happened to have that in my collection so I gave it a shot and was blown away at how transformative the combination was. It instantly transported this sexy night time fragrance into a summery day — adding a touch of vanilla and coconut on top of the rich floral notes from Crystal Noir.
My Honest Thoughts
Versace Crystal Noir is not a wallflower. She’s a movie star: Elegant, rich, and honestly, a little intimidating. She’d never start something but she would absolutely finish it, reapply her lipstick, and be on her way (to the next paparazzi-laden party, no doubt). The epitome of a strong woman in stilettos — Sophia Loren or Gina Lollabrigida.
Given the serious confidence boost, Versace Crystal Noir is my new go-to fragrance for all things evening. I love how sexy it feels without veering into musky, mature territory (which is often present when we talk about femme fatale scents). It somehow toes the line between dark and gentle — probably thanks to the delicate floral notes that become more pronounced the longer you wear it.
I wish I could bottle the layered combination of Versace Crystal Noir and Tom Ford Soleil Blanc. It’s more playful and suitable for everyday wear, though buying both and layering them daily is not a cost-effective way to live, unfortunately.
Where to Buy It
Versace Crystal Noir is widely available at your favorite beauty stores — both Sephora and Ulta — as well as several high-end department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom.
