WHAT I SMELL:  Atacama opens with warmed saline infused earth that feels unmeasured in its vastness.  It’s serene right from the beginning with just the perfect mix of dew and salt.  Slowly, a mix of florals enters to add an additional measure of softness along with just a hint of caramel buttered creaminess.  The perfume retains its salt of the earth feel as it begins to grow with an woodiness that can only be described as remnants left by a hard rain on the ocean mixed with the driftwood that has been swept up on the shore surrounded by flowers glistening in the sun.  In the end, Atacama is soft and beautiful lightly salty and sweetened uniquely personal perfume.

From the Atlaia website:

True love waits: in South America lies Atacama, the highest desert on earth, a majestic extension of salt and sands which changes colour according to the seasons. Rain is scarce but it just takes a few drops to awaken the seeds which abide underground and turn it pink with flowers. A beautiful metaphor for Love patiently awaiting the kiss that kindles it.

Notes:  Salt Grains, Freesia, Jasmine, Clary Sage, Tonka Bean, Cashmere Wood

WHAT IT SMELLS LIKE TO ME:  Sun kissed pink salty sand that’s been touched by the rain.

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ATACAMA:  fresh, personal, infinite

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT ATACAMA:  Colognoisseur

BOTTOM LINE:  Atacama is a hard perfume for me to put into words.  It changes and morphs depending on the heat and humidity of the day.  At times it gravitates towards the sea and the salt and at other times is moves towards the light florals.  But in any shape or form, Atacama is a beautifully executed perfume that is easy to wear.  And as an added bonus, the bottle and packaging are gorgeous.

• Bone Rating: 4 out of possible 5 bones
• Nose: Fabrice Pellegrin
• Classification:  Unisex
• Expense:  $230 for 100 ml eau de parfum at Beautyhabit.

Sample provided by Beautyhabit.