House of Matriarch 2012 Parfum

F ££££ Statement

Forbidden

by Christi Meshell

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House of Matriarch Forbidden is a Parfum launched in 2012, created by Christi Meshell. Forbidden opens with Absinth, Cannabis, Lantana, and Wormwood, settles into a heart of Papyrus, Cypriol Oil or Nagarmotha, Tuberose, and Pepper, and dries down to a base of Soil Tincture, Woody Notes, and Leather. House of Matriarch's Forbidden carries a Statement verdict, a woody-led wear.

Divisive, intriguing, and utterly unique, Forbidden is a 'love it or hate it' scent that leans into its 'witchy', earthy tuberose. It's not for everyone, but those who get it, REALLY get it.
What our verdicts mean →
  • Mysterious
  • Edgy
  • Earthy
  • Bold
  • Sensual
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Forbidden Parfum bottle

Scent Profile

Composition

Timeline

Showing: Overall Blend

Top, heart and base are the brand's own listing, not a timing claim - the industry classifies a note by its character as much as by how fast it fades. Each curve here is modelled from that material's own volatility, so groups can overlap when a house lists long-lasting materials in its heart.

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Performance & Mood

Performance

Longevity
Moderate (4-6h)
Projection
Moderate
Intensity
Moderate

Mood

Mood Energising
Calming
Character Playful
Serious
Sentiment Uplifting
Brooding

When To Wear

Best Seasons

Best For:
Spring Fall
Also Works:
Winter

A cold-weather scent - best worn in autumn and spring.

Best Occasions

Best For:
Date
Also Works:
Casual

With intimate sillage and moderate longevity, Forbidden isn't overwhelming for close encounters but its highly unusual profile makes it less suited for professional environments. It's perfect for dates or creative casual outings where its unique character can shine without being intrusive.

About

Forbidden opens with an arresting, almost medicinal greenness from absinthe and cannabis, swiftly joined by a damp, earthy mushroom accord and the exotic floral whisper of lantana. As it settles, a tamed tuberose emerges, interwoven with the dry, papery touch of cypriol and a hint of spice. The drydown deepens into a rich, dark earthiness, with prominent soil tincture and subtle leathery and woody notes, evoking a mysterious forest floor.

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Layer

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Complement

Two people, two scents: what sits well beside it when you each wear your own See what pairs well

Where to buy

Prices for the United States ·

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Drawn from community reviews and editor-reviewed before publishing on . See our methodology and disclosure policy.