The Brief

Launched in 2021, Exalté is the debut fragrance from Funmi Monet, a fragrance connoisseur, mental health advocate, and influencer. Her vision for Exalté is rooted in celebrating confidence, luxury, and individuality. As a self-made entrepreneur with a deep appreciation for fine perfumery, Funmi wanted to create a scent that empowers the wearer, exuding elegance and poise.

The fragrance was designed to evoke feelings of being “exalted” or uplifted—hence the name. It is targeted toward those who seek to balance refinement with charisma, making a bold impression without being overpowering. Funmi also drew inspiration from the multifaceted experiences of Black women, aiming to bottle a narrative of strength and beauty.

The Artist aka ‘Nose’

Image Source: Teen Vogue

Exalté is a collaborative creation between Funmi Monet and a professional perfumer whose identity hasn’t been widely publicized, further highlighting Funmi’s own meticulous involvement. The fragrance speaks to Funmi’s curated taste, combining modern perfumery techniques with luxurious raw materials. Funmi’s passion for storytelling is evident in the composition’s thoughtful structure, which unfolds in layers, revealing complexity and intentionality.

The Scent

Exalté is a floral-woody-musky fragrance that carries an air of sensuality and warmth, seamlessly transitioning from day to evening wear. Let’s break it down by its structure:

Top Notes

The opening bursts with bright and radiant citrus, paired with an effervescent sweetness. This introduction is uplifting and inviting, creating an immediate impression of optimism and charm.

Heart Notes

At its heart lies a bouquet of white florals, jasmine and orange blossom, blending with creamy elements. The florals are luminous and elegant, capturing a timeless femininity that feels both classic and contemporary.

Base Notes

The base is where Exalté truly shines, grounding the composition with smooth woods, velvety musk, and perhaps a touch of amber. This layer adds depth and sensuality, leaving a trail that is intimate yet commanding.

Performance

Exalté offers great sillage and longevity, making it suitable for both close encounters and public settings. It has an alluring but not aggressive presence – perfect for those who appreciate understated sophistication.

Who Is It For?

Exalté is ideal for individuals who value a versatile yet distinctive fragrance. Its balanced composition makes it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from professional settings to romantic evenings. It’s a scent that quietly demands attention, celebrating confidence without ostentation.

Expanding on Exalté’s Versatility

• Work Settings: Exalté is polished yet understated, making it appropriate for professional environments. For a more minimalist approach, wear it solo or add a soft, powdery scent like Narciso Rodriguez For Her.

• Evening Glamour: For nights out, layer Exalté with a bold oud fragrance like Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Satin Mood. This will create an intoxicating, attention-grabbing aura.

• Romantic Moments: Enhance the creamy musk and woods by layering with a vanilla-centric scent like Jovoy’s Remember Me . The result is alluringly soft, sweet, and unforgettable.

Layering Tips

1. Test First: Before committing to a combination, test the fragrances together on your skin. Some notes might clash depending on their strength and concentration.

2. Start Light: Begin with a single spray of each scent. You can always add more but can’t take away!

3. Common Ground: Choose complementary notes to ensure harmony (e.g., woods with woods, florals with florals).

Exalté is a chameleon in the best sense, its well-balanced structure makes it adaptable to a variety of moods and settings. Whether worn solo for its innate sophistication or layered to enhance different facets, Exalté remains an olfactory gem that uplifts and celebrates individuality.

Exalté is more than just a fragrance, it’s an olfactory statement of empowerment and grace. From the beautifully blended notes to the narrative it encapsulates, Exalté reflects Funmi’s intention to celebrate individuality and uplift those who wear it. If you’re searching for a scent that exudes modern elegance and tells a story of resilience and beauty, Exalté deserves a place on your vanity.