Mixed Emotions
An olfactory sketch of a changing world, this fragrance embraces the philosophy that it's okay not to be okay. The sharp tartness of blackcurrant collides with the comforting scent of smoky black tea, inviting you to a quiet moment of introspection.
#277 · 2026-02-20
The Essence of Mixed Emotions
*Mixed Emotions*, launched by Byredo in 2021, is an evocative woody-aromatic fragrance that serves as a sensory time capsule. Created during a period of global introspection and uncertainty, it carries a profound philosophical message: "It’s okay to not be okay." This scent captures the beautiful contradiction of human feelings, acting as an olfactory portrait of our inner struggles and acceptances.
The Perfumer and The Vision
Masterfully crafted by perfumer Jérôme Epinette—a frequent collaborator and the olfactive architect behind many of Byredo’s creations—this fragrance perfectly translates the abstract vision of founder Ben Gorham. Epinette utilized the striking contrast between blackcurrant and birch wood to simulate an emotional clash. The promotional campaign famously featured shattered perfume bottles, symbolizing a rebellion against traditional, flawless beauty and embracing the broken, realistic state of the human heart.
Unpacking the Scent Profile
The fragrance opens with an intense, almost jarring burst of blackcurrant, whose sharp, fruity tartness collides with the green bitterness of mate. This creates a deeply stimulating top note that immediately awakens the senses. As the scent evolves, the heart reveals the comforting warmth of Ceylon tea disrupted by the metallic, ink-like nuances of violet leaf. The resulting aroma is reminiscent of a smoky Lapsang Souchong tea steeped over an open campfire. Finally, the dry down offers a quiet, grounding base of birch wood and papyrus. Unlike heavy tar notes, the birch here is clean and dry, resembling burnt-out firewood and the pages of an old book, maintaining its beautifully bizarre balance with the lingering sweetness of the berries.
How to Wear It
Because of its unique profile and strong projection in its early stages, *Mixed Emotions* is best worn moderately. It thrives in the crisp, cold air of late autumn and early spring, and surprisingly, its metallic edge perfectly complements the melancholic mood of a rainy afternoon. It is an ideal companion for introspective activities like late-night writing or wandering through a quiet art gallery.
