Acquired

Ex Nihilo 2025 EDP

U ££££

Spiky Muse

by Louise Turner

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Ex Nihilo Spiky Muse is an Eau de Parfum launched in 2025, created by Louise Turner. Spiky Muse opens with Bergamot, Pink Pepper, and Strawberry, settles into a heart of Rose and Pistachio, and dries down to a base of Akigalawood, Ambrofix, Cedar, and Tonka Bean. Ex Nihilo's Spiky Muse carries an Acquired verdict, a rose-led wear.

Spiky Muse is a divisive but daring take on a rose scent. It's a bright, tenacious fruity-floral for those who like their roses with a bit of a kick, though some find its sharp, modern edge a bit much.
  • Bold
  • Fresh
  • Energetic
  • Elegant
  • Modern
Spiky Muse Eau de Parfum bottle

Profile

Composition

Timeline

Showing: Overall Blend

Accords

Rose
100%
Woody
93%
Citrus
78%
Oud
73%
Sweet
65%
Fruity
63%

Performance

Longevity
Long (6-10h)
Projection
Strong
Intensity
Strong

Mood

Mood Energising
Calming
Character Playful
Serious
Sentiment Uplifting
Brooding

When To Wear

Best Seasons

Best For:
Spring Summer

A warm-weather pick - at its best in spring and summer.

Best Occasions

Best For:
Date Casual Sport

Its bright, energetic character with good projection and longevity makes it suitable for casual and sport settings, as noted by community reviews wearing it to the gym. The bold rose and fruit profile feels too assertive for formal events and might be a bit much for a conservative office, though a light hand could make it work for a date.

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Layer

Wear two at once. See what layers well with Spiky Muse Eau de Parfum - the blends worth trying, and how each one scores.

Complement

Round out the rotation. See what complements Spiky Muse Eau de Parfum - fragrances that pair with it, worn side by side.

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About

Spiky Muse opens with a zesty burst of bergamot and a juicy, almost photorealistic strawberry, sharpened by a hint of pink pepper. This vibrant start quickly leads to a fresh, green rose heart, underscored by a whisper of earthy pistachio. The journey concludes on a warm, woody base of cedar and ambrofix, softened by sweet tonka, giving it a modern, long-lasting trail. Expect a bright and energetic rose, not a dusty, traditional one.