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Do fragrances have a gender? Or should perfumes really be assigned one? Why can’t a man wear a perfume that consists of flowery and fruity notes, and why can’t a woman don a fragrance that’s bold and woody, defying the conventional ‘masculine’ scent stereotype?

In essence, why propagate this bias when even the core ingredients in making all fragrances and scents are fundamentally the same? I have, at times, thought about all these things, and it simply seems like a misconception manufactured by the gods of capitalism to manipulate our preferences and maximise their profits.

As a woman, I’ve always been drawn to what are commonly labelled as strong and sharp ‘masculine’ fragrances, the very scents I admire when worn by men. Yet, I find it baffling when I don’t find such smells in the women’s section of the store.

Perhaps this is why I discovered Zaviha’s Mystic Blaze unisex perfume to be the perfect fit for my preferences. A rendition of the much pricier Baccarat Rouge 540, Mystic Blaze offers a long-lasting, bold aroma that exudes power and exhilaration in just the right measure.

A smell that radiates boss-like energy and a distinct aura that certainly can make anyone feel like the confident one in any boardroom meeting. Moreover, it is fairly empowering in the evening time as well, when its soft notes — which are more floral — take control. Honestly, the whole transition feels like the day in the life of a successful leader, regardless of their gender.

My only critique is about the packaging of the product. The glass bottle carrying the 30 ml liquid has room for improvement, including the cap and the sprayer, to enhance the overall customer experience. Since the brand is still in its early stages, it’s understandable that there may be some initial oversights; however, the packaging is a significant consideration, particularly for introducing a unisex perfume in Pakistan — a rarity as many leading brands neglect this market.

Currently priced at Rs2,240 after a discount, I find the Mystic Blaze to be affordable and definitely worth it because of its long-lasting scent (it lingers even after you wash your clothes!). It is a definite choice for today — when all genders are breaking free from stereotypical norms and embracing scents that resonate with them personally.

So go ahead and embrace the fragrances that truly speak to you!

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.