Magnetic Blend 1

The Verdict

Initio Parfums Prives Magnetic Blend 1 occupies a peculiar and fascinating niche in the fragrance world. Built around a molecular recreation of ambergris developed by a German chemist, this 2015 release is less a traditional fragrance and more a fragrance tool, a primal amber concentrate designed to be layered beneath other scents to amplify their warmth, depth, and sensuality.

Community opinion is sharply divided along a predictable fault line: those who appreciate animalic, dirty amber compositions find Magnetic Blend 1 intoxicating and addictive, while those who are sensitive to such notes find it challenging or outright unpleasant. This polarization is by design, as Initio positions the fragrance as harnessing the primal power of ambergris to stir instincts.

What emerges from the collective discussion is that Magnetic Blend 1 is best understood not as a standalone perfume but as a powerful layering ingredient that transforms other fragrances. In this role, it excels, earning genuine devotion from the layering community.

What It Smells Like

Magnetic Blend 1 opens with a scratchy, pungent quality that is immediately recognizable as animalic. There is something salty and marine about the initial impression, which community members describe variously as effervescent ginger soda, smoky church incense mixed with ocean vibes, and earthy, watery beet-like notes.

As the fragrance develops, the raw edges soften into a warm, resinous amber accord that is the true heart of the composition. The ambergris note, whether genuine or synthetic, lends an unmistakable animal warmth that is simultaneously dirty and refined. Reviewers who enjoy this territory describe it as animalic and dirty, in a sensual yet sparkly sort of way.

The drydown settles into a soft, powdery amber that can persist on skin and clothing for extraordinary lengths of time. The overall trajectory moves from challenging to comforting, from bold provocation to intimate warmth.

When to Wear It

Magnetic Blend 1 is primarily a cool-weather fragrance, suited for fall and winter evenings when its warmth and depth can shine. Its animalic character makes it inappropriate for conservative settings but ideal for intimate occasions where its primal appeal can work its intended magic.

Its greatest utility, however, is as a layering base. Community members recommend applying it first and then spraying a lighter fragrance on top, where Magnetic Blend 1 acts as what one reviewer memorably called a low-pass filter for perfume, smoothing out harsh edges, warming floral hearts, and extending the longevity of more fleeting compositions.

Longevity & Projection

Performance is one area where Magnetic Blend 1 earns universal praise. Multiple reviewers report longevity exceeding 24 hours, with one claiming 36 hours of detectable scent. Another noted that four or five washes were needed to reduce the smell by even 80 percent.

Projection starts moderate to strong in the opening hours before settling into a persistent skin scent that continues to radiate warmth for extended periods. This extraordinary staying power is one of the primary reasons it works so well as a layering base, providing a long-lasting foundation for fragrances that might otherwise fade quickly.

The Community Says

Community discussion of Magnetic Blend 1 consistently returns to two themes: its divisive scent profile and its remarkable utility as a layering tool. Negative reviewers report encountering a fecal stench or overwhelming animalic character that they find unwearable. Positive reviewers describe it as not too sweet, mildly warm, complicated in texture, and enjoyable to wear.

The layering conversation is where genuine enthusiasm emerges. Bellini's, a Portland-based perfumery, published a detailed guide to layering with Magnetic Blend 1, recommending it beneath florals to emphasize jasmine and add warmth, under gourmands to create sensual depth, and combined with woody scents for oceanic or winter air qualities. This perspective has been echoed across fragrance communities, where users share their favorite combinations.

Who Should Buy This

Magnetic Blend 1 is for the adventurous fragrance enthusiast who either appreciates animalic amber compositions or wants a powerful layering tool to transform their existing collection. If you enjoy fragrances that provoke a reaction and push boundaries, this delivers. Layering enthusiasts will find it an indispensable addition to their arsenal.

Avoid this fragrance if you are sensitive to animalic or musky notes, or if you prefer clean, fresh, or sweet compositions. Sampling before purchasing is essential, as the polarizing nature of Magnetic Blend 1 means it is as likely to repel as to attract. Those seeking a traditional, well-rounded standalone fragrance should also look elsewhere.

The Bottom Line

Magnetic Blend 1 is a boldly unconventional fragrance that functions best as a layering amplifier, adding animalic warmth and extraordinary longevity to other compositions. Worn solo, it is a love-or-hate proposition that rewards those who embrace its primal character.