Astor Place

The Verdict

Bond No. 9 Astor Place was created by Laurent Le Guernec of IFF in 2009, inspired by Tony Rosenthal's iconic Cube sculpture at the Manhattan plaza where Lafayette Street meets the Bowery. It went on to win the Fragrance Foundation's Women's Luxury Fragrance of the Year award in 2010, lending it credentials that set expectations high. But community reception tells a more complicated story.

Devoters call it one of the best Bond fragrances for women, praising its warm character and woodsy drydown. Critics, however, consistently compare it to Dior J'Adore and question whether the niche pricing is justified for what some describe as a middle-of-the-road floral. The fragrance has become a litmus test for how one views Bond No. 9 as a house -- fans see charm and NYC character, while skeptics see overpriced mass-market formulas in distinctive bottles.

What It Smells Like

The opening delivers citrus-green freshness through mandarin and violet leaf, creating an inviting first impression that is neither challenging nor groundbreaking. Several Basenotes reviewers found the initial spray easy to dismiss, with one noting a cheap fake strawberry quality mixed with watery lilac and rose, though this impression shifted over the wearing.

The heart is where Astor Place finds its character. Freesia contributes a clean, slightly peppery floral sweetness, while red poppy buds add an ephemeral, papery quality. Orris root provides a powdery, violet-like sophistication that elevates the composition beyond simple florality. Multiple Fragrantica reviewers noted the freesia combined with orris as the fragrance's most distinctive element, lending it a delicate, almost iris-like quality.

The drydown settles into warm territory. Teak wood adds an exotic, slightly spiced woody quality, while musk and amber provide a soft, skin-like warmth. This final phase is where even initially skeptical reviewers found something to appreciate. One Basenotes contributor who initially disliked the fragrance admitted to developing a begrudging respect as the clean, woody base emerged.

When to Wear It

Astor Place is a quintessential daily wear fragrance. Its moderate projection and inoffensive character make it suitable for office environments, brunches, and casual outings throughout spring, summer, and fall. The warm floral-woody character becomes less appropriate in deep winter, where it may feel too light.

This is not a fragrance designed for impact or statement-making. It excels when you want to smell pleasant and put-together without demanding attention.

Longevity & Projection

Performance is adequate but unexceptional for a niche-priced fragrance. Multiple reviewers across Fragrantica and Basenotes report 5 to 6 hours of longevity, with moderate sillage that stays relatively close to the skin. One male wearer described awesome sillage that mixed well with body chemistry, suggesting that individual experience may vary significantly. The fragrance is not a projection beast, but it provides enough presence to be noticed in close conversation.

The Community Says

The community is genuinely split. Enthusiasts on Fragrantica call Astor Place one of the best Bond fragrances they have tried, praising it as a warm floral with an ever so slight powdery vibe and a really good woodsy drydown. Male wearers have reported that it functions well as a playful, flirty unisex option. On the critical side, Basenotes reviewers described it as a soft, slightly fresh, but ultimately boring middle-of-the-road floral with nothing to stand out or distinguish it in any way. The J'Adore comparison recurs frequently, with some reviewers noting that Astor Place was nearly identical to the less expensive Dior alternative. PurseForum discussions among Bond No. 9 collectors placed it among the more likeable offerings but not among the house's essential purchases.

Who Should Buy This

Astor Place suits Bond No. 9 fans who want an easy-wearing floral that performs reliably for daily use. If you enjoy warm, powdery floral-woody compositions and find value in the brand's distinctive bottle design and NYC-inspired identity, Astor Place delivers a pleasant, sophisticated experience.

Fragrance enthusiasts who prioritize originality, longevity, or value for money would be better served exploring alternatives. The combination of niche pricing and mainstream-comparable scent profile is difficult to justify for those who approach fragrance purchase decisions analytically.

The Bottom Line

Bond No. 9 Astor Place is a competent, award-winning warm floral that does exactly what it sets out to do -- provide an easy, pleasant daily wear experience with some woody depth. Its strength lies in its approachability and versatility, not in breaking new ground. Whether the Bond No. 9 presentation and brand identity justify the premium over similar department store florals depends entirely on how much those elements matter to you personally.