Nina Ricci Nina

✍️ Our Take

Nina Ricci Nina is the kind of fragrance that feels like a smile in perfume form — playful, pretty and just a little bit mischievous. On first spray, you get a bright hit of lime and lemon, so the opening is crisp, zesty and immediately uplifting. Very quickly, the fruitier side comes forward: juicy apple, soft peony and that airy moonflower touch give it a girlish charm without making it feel childish. The praline adds a sugared almond warmth that sits on skin like a glossy, edible sweetness, while the cedar, musk and white woods in the base keep everything neat and wearable rather than syrupy. What makes it work so well is the way it develops: it starts fresh and sparkling, then melts into a creamy fruity floral with a gentle woody drydown. It’s not a beast in terms of projection, but the moderate sillage and longevity make it easy to live with, especially for office days, brunches, casual dates or a sunny summer braai. And at under R1,000, it offers lovely value if you want something charming, feminine and easy to reach for. You’re best suited for this if you love cheerful, sweet fruity florals that feel polished, approachable and distinctly feminine.