Orchid in perfumery is a fantasy note, since most orchids have little scent, but the fantasy is gorgeous, exotic, velvety and slightly sweet with dark floral mystery. Perfumers interpret orchid as they wish, usually as a rich, opulent floral with vanilla, spice and woody undertones. Tom Ford's Black Orchid made it synonymous with dark, sexy luxury. In Indian weather, orchid-type scents are evening and winter territory, their rich darkness would suffocate in daytime heat but becomes magnetic after dark. The fantasy nature means quality varies enormously, from cheap sweetness to genuine opulence. Look for versions with real depth, spice and wood rather than just sugary darkness. An invitation to the exotic.