The Sweet Symphony of Kayali Vanilla: A Fragrance Review

In the grand theater of perfumery, where every scent tells a story, Kayali Vanilla | 28 plays the lead role with elegance and charm. But before we dive into the warm embrace of this gourmand delight, let’s set the stage with a bit of history.

The Origins: A Modern Arabian Tale

Kayali, meaning "my imagination" in Arabic, was co-founded by Mona Kattan—a name that resonates with beauty enthusiasts around the globe.

Mona, alongside her sister Huda Kattan (yes, the powerhouse behind Huda Beauty), launched the Kayali brand in 2018.

The brand quickly became the darling of the fragrance world, celebrated for its rich Middle Eastern heritage infused with modern sophistication.

Vanilla | 28 is one of the first four fragrances launched by Kayali,

and it has since become a cult favorite.

Mona Kattan once described her journey into perfumery as “an exploration of the self,” and Vanilla | 28 is a perfect reflection of this philosophy.

It’s a fragrance that’s as introspective as it is indulgent, designed to be layered with other scents or worn solo, allowing its wearer to tell their own story.

The Scent Profile: A Vanilla Lover’s Dream

Let’s be clear—this isn’t your average vanilla. This is vanilla with a PhD in seduction, wrapped in a velvet cloak of sophistication.

Vanilla | 28 opens with a sweet burst of jasmine and creamy orchid, like the first sip of a rich dessert wine.

As it settles, the star of the show—Madagascar vanilla—takes the spotlight, mingling with Brazilian tonka beans, brown sugar, amber woods, and a whisper of musk. The result? A sweet, yet surprisingly sultry scent that dances between the lines of gourmand and oriental.

In the words of the famed perfume critic

Luca Turin, “Vanilla | 28 is a dream in a bottle—a fragrance that feels both familiar and exotic, like returning to a place you’ve never been but somehow know in your soul.”

Why Vanilla | 28 Is More Than Just a Scent

There’s a reason why Vanilla | 28 has captured the hearts of many.

According to Fragrantica (the online bible for perfume lovers), this fragrance has a devoted following that spans the globe.

And it’s not just the everyday wearers who are singing its praises—celebrities and influencers alike have been quick to declare their love for this sultry scent.

As Jeremy Fragrance( popular fragrance influencer), once said,

“If you want a vanilla that’s going to turn heads and make people ask, ‘What are you wearing?’, Kayali Vanilla | 28 is the one to reach for.”

And he's not alone.

Stephanie Let’s Smell This (another fragrance fanatic), raves about its versatility, stating,

“This is the vanilla I didn’t know I needed. It’s perfect for layering but also stands beautifully on its own. It’s sexy, it’s comforting—it’s everything.”

The Verdict: A Vanilla for the Ages

So, what makes Kayali Vanilla | 28 stand out in a sea of vanilla scents? It’s the balance—the way it straddles the line between sweet and sultry, comfort and allure.

It’s the kind of scent that lingers in the memory, much like the lingering taste of a fine dessert long after the last bite.

In a world that’s often fast-paced and overwhelming, Vanilla | 28 is a reminder to slow down, to savor the moment, and to indulge in the simple pleasure of a scent that feels like home, yet promises adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned fragrance collector or a newbie looking for that perfect vanilla, this is one fragrance that deserves a spot on your vanity.

Kayali Vanilla | 28 is more than just a fragrance—it’s an experience.

It’s the scent of a modern-day Arabian princess, wrapped in gold and bathed in the warm glow of a desert sunset.

And trust me, it’s a journey you’ll want to take.