Black Iris Women Shanghai Tang

Fragrance Story

Black Iris Women by Shanghai Tang is a Oriental Floral fragrance for women. The nose behind this fragrance is Carlos Benaïm. Top notes are Green Tea, Lemon and Mandarin Orange; middle notes are Tuberose, Jasmine and Orange Blossom; base notes are Black Iris, Musk and Vanilla.

Composition Profile

white floral 100%
citrus 85%
tuberose 70%
green 60%
powdery 50%
iris 40%
musky 35%
animalic 30%
fresh 25%

About the Perfumer

Painting That Reflects Black Iris Women Shanghai Tang

The Demon Seated by Mikhail Vrubel

The Demon Seated by Mikhail Vrubel, 1890

This evocative painting captures the complex, mysterious aura of the fragrance. The rich textures and contemplative mood mirror the fragrance's depth and striking presence, while the bold use of color reflects its distinctive character.

Classic Song That Matches Black Iris Women Shanghai Tang

Song album cover

"Rhapsody in Blue" by George Gershwin, 1924

Like Black Iris Women Shanghai Tang, Gershwin's masterpiece seamlessly blends contrasting elements into a harmonious whole. The composition's elegant transitions between dynamic and serene passages mirror the fragrance's evolution on skin. Just as this scent brings together traditional and modern elements, "Rhapsody in Blue" merges classical structure with jazz improvisation, creating something sophisticated yet accessible—an auditory parallel to this fragrance's olfactory journey.

Fragrance Notes

Top Notes

The first impression, lasting 15-30 minutes

Green Tea
Lemon
Mandarin Orange

Heart Notes

The core character, lasting 2-4 hours

Tuberose
Jasmine
Orange Blossom

Base Notes

The lasting impression, 4+ hours

Black Iris
Musk
Vanilla
Unique Character

Black Iris Women Shanghai Tang by Shanghai Tang offers a distinctive olfactory experience that stands out from other fragrances in its category.

Artisanal Creation

Crafted with the finest ingredients and a blend of traditional and modern perfumery techniques, this fragrance represents the pinnacle of the perfumer's art.

Signature Style

Black Iris Women Shanghai Tang embodies the distinctive style of Shanghai Tang while adding a unique chapter to their fragrance portfolio.

Character Profile

Black Iris Women Shanghai Tang is Ideal For

The Enigmatic Muse: A Portrait of the Black Iris Woman

Archetype: The Sage

The woman who adorns herself with Black Iris by Shanghai Tang is not merely drawn to its dark floral elegance—she embodies the essence of The Sage, an archetype defined by wisdom, introspection, and a quiet command of the unseen. Like the iris flower, she is rooted in depth, thriving in the interplay of shadow and light. Her fragrance—mysterious, refined, slightly melancholic—mirrors her soul: a blend of intellect and intuition, of restraint and passion.

She does not seek to dominate the room; instead, she observes, analyzes, and understands. The Sage is drawn to knowledge not for power, but for the sake of truth. She is the keeper of secrets, the one who listens more than she speaks, the woman whose presence lingers in the mind long after she has left.

A Life of Contemplation and Refinement

Her tastes are deliberate, never accidental. She prefers the understated luxury of Shanghai Tang’s aesthetic—where East meets West in quiet harmony—over gaudy displays of wealth. Her wardrobe is a study in contrasts: structured silk blouses paired with flowing skirts, dark hues punctuated by the occasional jade or amethyst. She favors art that provokes thought—a Rothko painting, a Tarkovsky film, a Mahler symphony—where meaning is layered, never obvious.

Her philosophy is one of measured depth. She does not believe in simple answers, nor does she indulge in blind optimism. Life, to her, is a series of questions, and wisdom lies in the asking rather than the answering. She values independence of mind, often resisting dogma in favor of her own reasoned conclusions.

In relationships, she is selective but fiercely loyal. She does not suffer fools, yet those who earn her trust find her a steadfast confidante. Romance, for her, is not about grand gestures but about shared understanding—a meeting of minds as much as hearts. She may be accused of emotional reserve, but this is not coldness; it is the result of a mind that weighs words before speaking them.

The Shadow of the Sage: Isolation and Over-Intellectualization

Yet, like all archetypes, hers has its shadow. The Sage risks detachment, retreating so deeply into thought that she forgets to live. She may become overly critical, dissecting emotions until they lose their vitality. There is a danger, too, in her love of solitude—she may mistake loneliness for independence, pushing away those who seek to know her fully.

At her worst, she can be haughty, dismissing those who do not meet her intellectual standards. She may also fall into paralysis by analysis, endlessly contemplating decisions without acting. The very wisdom she prizes can become a cage if she forgets that life is not only to be understood but also to be felt.

The Balance of Light and Shadow

Still, when she harmonizes her strengths and weaknesses, she becomes something extraordinary: a woman who sees clearly but loves deeply, who values knowledge but does not let it eclipse experience. Her life is not one of grand conquests but of quiet revelations—each day a step closer to understanding herself and the world.

She is the woman who wears Black Iris not to be noticed, but because it is an extension of who she is: complex, enigmatic, and unforgettable.

Pros

  • Exceptional longevity that lasts throughout the day
  • Complex evolution offers a rewarding sensory journey
  • Versatile enough for various occasions and seasons
  • Unique composition stands out from mainstream fragrances
  • High-quality ingredients ensure a premium experience

Cons

  • May be too intense for casual everyday wear
  • Higher price point reflects premium positioning
  • Bold projection might be overwhelming in close quarters
  • Certain notes may polarize some noses
  • Not ideal for those who prefer subtle, skin-close scents

Fictional Characters Who Would Wear This

👔

Harvey Specter

from "Suits"

Confident, polished, and always in control – this scent matches his sophisticated persona.

🕶️

James Bond

from "007 Series"

Elegant yet dangerous, with a complex character that unfolds over time, just like the fragrance.

👑

Daenerys Targaryen

from "Game of Thrones"

Commands attention with a powerful presence that balances fiery intensity and regal grace.

🧠

Sherlock Holmes

from "Sherlock Holmes"

Appreciates complexity and nuance, with a distinctive signature that's easily recognized.

💼

Miranda Priestly

from "The Devil Wears Prada"

Exudes authority and refined taste, with an unapologetic boldness that demands respect.