Project #29: CoSTUME NATIONAL Paperplane

Published on 4 May 2025 at 10:57

Close-up of CoSTUME NATIONAL Paperplane Eau de Parfum resting on glowing silk.

About the perfume / My Review:

Paperplane by CoSTUME NATIONAL: A Bold Flight Through Minimalist Sensuality

A Fragrance That Flies High and Lands Smooth

In the world of niche perfumery, CoSTUME NATIONAL has always embraced a sleek, architectural elegance—scented minimalism with a rock ‘n’ roll soul. With Paperplane Eau de Parfum, the brand takes us on a conceptual olfactory journey that’s anything but ordinary. Despite its name evoking childlike whimsy, Paperplane is a seriously grown-up fragrance: refined, subtly provocative, and undeniably modern.

Fragrance Profile: What Does Paperplane Smell Like?

Top Notes: pepper, paper, incense, cotton flower

Heart Notes: vetiver, sage, cypriol oil

Base Notes: musk, amber, oakmoss

Performance and Longevity

One of Paperplane’s most impressive features is its longevity. For a scent that feels so weightless, it clings to skin for 7–9 hours and leaves a subtle trail that’s noticeable without ever being loud. Sillage is moderate—enough to get compliments, but intimate enough to wear in close quarters.

When and Where to Wear It

Paperplane is certainly super versatile, but it shines in cooler months or crisp spring days. It’s ideal for office settings, casual dates, or anytime you want to smell clean and put-together with an artistic edge. Think: "I’m not trying too hard, I just always smell like this."

Unisex, but slightly leaning toward the masculine-clean side of the spectrum. Anyone who enjoys scents like Molecule 01, Narciso Rodriguez for Him Bleu Noir, or Juliette Has a Gun Not a Perfume will find something familiar, yet elevated here.

Design and Packaging

Minimalist lovers, rejoice: the frosted glass bottle, sleek typeface, and understated color gradient all reflect the brand’s signature aesthetic—clean lines, no frills, but tons of style. It’s the olfactory equivalent of a perfectly tailored white shirt.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy Paperplane by CoSTUME NATIONAL?

If you’re looking for a clean, musky, woody fragrance with just the right amount of freshness and florals, Paperplane is absolutely worth a test flight. It balances comfort and character with elegant restraint. It won’t shout—but it will speak clearly to those who appreciate a well-designed scent with a story to tell.

If you like super photogenic perfume bottles, take a look at this post, about a fantastic Prada fragrance I have in my collection (here).