Acte II by Escada c1995

Acte 2 by Escada, introduced circa 1995, is a masterpiece crafted by highly esteemed perfumer Ilias Ermenidis from Firmenich.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a soft marine floral fragrance for women. Described as a sheer and transparent floral.  

• Top notes: wild rose, aldehyde, orange, bergamot, mandarin (tangerine), freesia, ozone
• Middle notes: star anise, mimosa, orris, peony, blackberry, blackcurrant, jasmine, cinnamon
• Base notes: cedar, amber, vanilla, sandalwood, frankincense

Imagine the gentle caress of ocean breeze mingling with the delicate petals of wild roses under the radiant sun. Acte 2 unfolds like a soft marine floral symphony, a whisper of nature's purity. Its essence, sheer and transparent, evokes the ethereal beauty of a blossoming garden by the sea.

At its inception, the fragrance dances with the playful harmony of wild rose, aldehyde, and citrusy notes of orange, bergamot, and mandarin. A floral chorus of freesia and ozone adds a touch of airy lightness, while star anise and mimosa weave a spell of enchantment.

As the heart blooms, the fragrance reveals layers of complexity. Peony and jasmine, adorned with the sweetness of blackberry and blackcurrant, entwine with the subtle spice of cinnamon and the powdery allure of orris. Each note, like a stroke of an artist's brush, adds depth and dimension to the olfactory canvas.

In the tranquil embrace of the base, Acte 2 finds its grounding. Cedar and sandalwood provide a sturdy foundation, while amber and vanilla lend a warm and sensual embrace. Like whispers carried by the wind, frankincense weaves a thread of mystique, leaving an unforgettable trail in its wake.

With Acte 2, the essence of femininity is captured in a bottle, a fragrant ode to the timeless allure of the sea and the delicate beauty of flowers.

Bottle:

Nestled within a captivating vessel, the essence of Acte 2 is contained within a bottle as exquisite as the fragrance it holds. Inspired by the graceful cross of a seated woman's legs, the bottle stands as a testament to elegance and sophistication, a visual symphony of femininity.

Crafted by the visionary Thierry Lecoule, the bottle boasts faceted contours that mirror the delicate curves of the female form. Its graceful lines intertwine in a dance of harmony, reminiscent of crossed limbs in repose. Crowned with a golden frosted cap, adorned with loops that exude opulence, it is a statement of luxury that captivates the eye.

This iconic design transcends the boundaries of time, adapting seamlessly to various Escada fragrances, each one embraced by its unique allure. From its inception, the bottle becomes not just a vessel but a symbol, an embodiment of the essence it contains and the legacy it represents.

Thierry Lecoule is a renowned French designer known for his contributions to the world of fragrance packaging and bottle design. His work is marked by a fusion of elegance, innovation, and functionality, making him a sought-after figure in the industry.

Lecoule has lent his creative touch to numerous iconic perfume bottles across various brands. Some of his notable creations include:

• Chanel Chance - Lecoule collaborated with Chanel to design the distinctive round bottle for the Chance fragrance line, known for its playful yet sophisticated aesthetic.

• Lancôme La Vie Est Belle - He contributed to the design of the elegant and luxurious bottle for Lancôme's La Vie Est Belle, a fragrance celebrated for its optimistic and radiant character.

• Escada Magnetism - Lecoule's creativity shines through in the design of the Magnetism bottle, reflecting the allure and magnetism of the fragrance it contains.

• Kenzo Flower - Lecoule played a pivotal role in the creation of the iconic poppy-shaped bottle for Kenzo Flower, a design that perfectly captures the essence of the fragrance's floral inspiration.

These are just a few examples of Thierry Lecoule's illustrious portfolio, showcasing his ability to translate the essence of a fragrance into captivating and timeless bottle designs.

Fate of the Fragrance:

The discontinuation of a fragrance like Acte 2 by Escada can stem from various factors, often influenced by market dynamics, consumer preferences, and brand strategies. While specific reasons for discontinuation may not always be publicly disclosed, several potential factors could contribute to this decision:

Shift in Consumer Preferences: Over time, consumer tastes and preferences in the fragrance industry can evolve. What was once popular or trendy may no longer align with current consumer preferences. Escada, like many other fragrance houses, may discontinue certain scents to make room for new releases that better resonate with contemporary tastes.

Sales Performance: If a fragrance experiences declining sales or fails to meet revenue expectations, the brand may decide to discontinue it. Despite its initial success, Acte 2 might have faced challenges in maintaining consistent sales figures over the years, prompting Escada to discontinue it in favor of more profitable options.

Brand Refresh or Repositioning: Fragrance brands often undergo periodic rebranding or repositioning efforts to stay relevant in a competitive market. Discontinuing older fragrances allows brands like Escada to make way for new launches that align with their updated brand image or target demographic.

Ingredients Sourcing or Regulatory Changes: Changes in ingredient availability or regulatory requirements can impact the formulation of fragrances. If certain key ingredients become scarce or are restricted due to regulations, it may not be feasible for Escada to continue producing Acte 2 as it was originally formulated.

Limited Edition or Seasonal Release: Some fragrances are released as limited editions or seasonal offerings, intended for a temporary run rather than long-term availability. Acte 2 may have been intended as a limited edition or seasonal release from the outset, leading to its eventual discontinuation once the designated period elapsed.

Ultimately, the decision to discontinue Acte 2 by Escada likely involved a combination of market analysis, brand strategy considerations, and internal assessments by the company.

Acte 2 en Fleurs by Escada:

In the elegant footsteps of its predecessor, Acte 2 en Fleurs by Escada graced the fragrance scene in 1997, enchanting with its delicate bouquet.

It is classified as a fresh floral fragrance for women. It is described as a lighter, "transparent amber' interpretation of Escada Acte 2. The new lighter scent features accords of blackberries, clementines, jasmine, freesia, honeysuckle, peony, vanilla and myrrh."

• Top notes: green notes, bergamot, aldehydes, blackberry, clementine 
• Middle notes: jasmine, honeysuckle, peony, freesia, cyclamen, rose, orris
• Base notes: vanilla, myrrh, amber, cedar, sandalwood, cinnamon

Classified as a fresh floral fragrance for women, it unveils a sublime interpretation of Escada Acte 2, exuding a radiant and airy charm.

At the forefront, verdant notes intertwine with the zest of bergamot, aldehydes, and the succulent allure of blackberry and clementine, crafting a vibrant opening that beckons the senses.

In its heart, a floral symphony unfolds, where jasmine, honeysuckle, and peony dance alongside freesia, cyclamen, rose, and orris, weaving a tapestry of ethereal beauty and feminine allure.

As the fragrance gently settles, a warm embrace of vanilla and amber envelops the senses, mingling with the resinous whispers of myrrh and the woody elegance of cedar and sandalwood, while a hint of cinnamon adds a subtle touch of spice to this enchanting olfactory journey.

It seems Acte 2 en Fleurs by Escada also joined its predecessor on the fragrance shelves of memory. Such a fate often befalls even the most beloved scents, as the winds of change sweep through the fragrance industry. Yet, their essence lingers, cherished by those who once embraced their fragrant embrace.