Tom Ford started a quest to find the perfect flower he could use for his signature fragrance. So, the brand searched for the blackest and rarest flower that could create an opulent, mesmerizing, and sensual scent. Although dark orchids are very rare and difficult to obtain, Tom Ford persevere in using them.
In 2006, Tom Ford created Black Orchid. David Apel and Pierre Negrin are the sharp noses behind this masterpiece. It is known as the perfect dark perfume. In fact, many fashion houses used Black Orchid by Tom Ford as an inspiration for creating similar colognes and perfumes. Fans love and adore the irresistible and mysterious appeal of Black Orchid. It comes in an elegant, sleek, black bottle that adds to its overall charm and appeal.
In 2020, Tom Ford released a more potent and amped-up version of the original Black Orchid. It is the creation of the scent experts Yann Vasnier and Pierre Negrin. Black Orchid Parfum or Black Orchid Gold has more notes, making it more alluring and intense. Like the original, it is also presented as an amber floral fragrance. In addition, it comes in an exquisite-looking glitzy gold bottle.
Both perfumes are marketed by the company Givaudan. They have become best sellers and remarkable addition to the perfume world.
Tom Ford Black Orchid vs Gold
The main difference between Black Orchid and Black Orchid Gold is that the Parfum/Gold version is amped-up with essential oils. The original Black Orchid perfume possesses an iconic sensuality and aphrodisiac effect, and the Gold version makes it more potent and seductive. The original version was initially made for ladies, while the Gold version has more masculine notes.
| Parameter | Black Orchid | Black Orchid Gold |
| Brand | Tom Ford | Tom Ford |
| Perfumer | David Apel and Pierre Negrin | Yann Vasnier and Pierre Negrin |
| Type | Eau De Parfum | Parfum |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2020 |
| Discontinued? | Yes | No |
| Gender | Women | Unisex |
| Accords | Amber Floral | Amber Floral |
| Longevity | High | High |
| Occasion | Dinner Dates, Special Occasions, Formal Gathering | Night Outs, Dinner Dates, Formal Events |
| Season | Winter and Fall | Winter and Fall |
Black Orchid vs Gold By Scent
| Notes | Black Orchid | Black Orchid Gold |
| Top | Ylang-Ylang, Amalfi Lemon, Black Currant, Truffle, Gardenia, Jasmine, Mandarin Orange, and Bergamot | Plum and Truffle |
| Middle | Orchid, Fruity Notes, Spices, Lotus, Ylang-Ylang, and Jasmine | Rum, Black Orchid, and Ylang-Ylang |
| Base | White Musk, Sandalwood, Patchouli, Mexican Chocolate, Vanille, Incense, Vetiver, and Amber | Patchouli |
The original Black Orchid has a complex note pyramid. The notes were meticulously chosen and artistically combined to create an irresistible and sexy scent many love and adore. Black Orchid has a unique aroma that is loud and unapologetic. It features a mysterious and powerful combination of spices, incense, florals, earthiness, and dark chocolate. Initially, Patchouli dominates the scent making it sweet and sensual. Then the hints of vanilla become more prominent, turning it into an alluring, seductive, rich, and dark fragrance.
The Gold version is more potent, intense, smooth, bold, and sexy than the original. It playfully combines feminine florals and masculine musks. The Black Orchid is more pronounced in this version. It features the seductive scent of ylang-ylang mixed with golden rum, which complements the pungent aroma of plum, black truffle, and patchouli. Fans of the original Black Orchid also expressed their love for its newest version.
Both perfumes are great amber floral fragrances. They have loads of similarities. Even their bottles complement each other. Seeing them side-by-side can make your perfume collection more elegant and stylish. Both perfumes can make you feel attractive, bold, sexy, and brave.
Black Orchid vs Gold By Gender
The original Black Orchid by Tom Ford was initially designed to appeal to women. However, even gentlemen love its alluring, sexy, and dark vibe. Many people appreciate its complicated composition, versatility, and exciting note pyramid. So, it is now marketed as a unisex fragrance.
On the other hand, the Gold version was intentionally intended for men and women. Its composition is artfully and masterfully blended to create a scent that plays along with the feminine floral notes and the masculine musk scents. It is a scent you can safely share with your significant other, partner, or close friend.
Black Orchid vs Gold By Longevity
The original Black Orchid and Gold versions have exceptional and powerful longevity. Their alluring scents will linger around up to 10 hours. Both are praised for their high-quality and impressive performance. But of course, your skin chemistry can still affect their lasting power.
A few sprays in the morning will surely last until dinnertime. The original and Gold version of Black Orchid can accompany you on a hectic day, long trip, or an eventful party.
Black Orchid vs Gold By Occasion
It may be tempting to wear Black Orchid daily because of its warm, woody, and sweet aroma. However, it is a perfume that you should reserve for special occasions. It can be your to-go scent for a romantic and luxurious dinner date, formal gatherings, or romantic getaways. You can also wear it on a night out, at wild parties, clubbing, or bar hopping. Whenever you want to stand out, or feel sexy and confident, wear Black Orchid.
The same is true with the Gold version. It is elegant, timeless, and modern. You’ll find it suitable for business meetings, formal affairs, dinner dates, and conferences. However, you might want to avoid using both perfumes for outdoor activities like picnics, hiking, or trekking.
Black Orchid vs Gold By Season
The original and gold versions of Black Orchid work best on cold and chilly days. Since they are both warm scents, users love to use them during the winter and fall seasons. Although, you can still use them year-round during the night. And you should avoid using it in crowded places or places with high humidity and poor ventilation. The warmth of these perfumes will not work well with the hot seasons.
Tom Ford Black Orchid vs Gold: Which is Best for You?
The original and Gold versions of Black Orchid are very similar. They work best during the winter and fall seasons. You can use them on the same occasions. They have similar longevity, sillage, and projection. So, the choice between the two boils down to personal preference.
To me, nothing beats the original Black Orchid by Tom Ford. It is the perfect dark perfume with a blend of floral notes and spices. Generally, its composition is hypnotic. It has a sophisticated, timeless, and luxurious vibe that can make you feel extra confident, sexy, and beautiful.
But, if that is not enough for you, and you want more intensity and force, you should try the Gold version.