Kayali has announced a major shake-up for fragrance fans: the original Vanilla 28 is being discontinued, and its replacement — Vanilla 29 — is not a reformulation but a completely new scent. Founder Mona Kattan confirmed the shift, citing customer feedback and growing confusion around the product as the driving forces behind the decision.
A Personal Goodbye to Vanilla 28
Vanilla 28 holds a unique place in Kayali's history. It was part of the brand's very first collection at launch, making it deeply personal for Mona Kattan. Described as "really special," the fragrance carried strong emotional value tied to early milestones and memories. Despite its significance, the brand has decided to move forward in a new direction.
Why Kayali Is Discontinuing Vanilla 28
The decision to discontinue Vanilla 28 was influenced by ongoing confusion and market behaviour around the product — particularly regarding its colour.
According to the brand:
- Variations in fragrance colour (lighter vs. darker) led to widespread misconceptions - Some buyers believed darker bottles were more valuable or more potent - Resale activity began pricing darker versions significantly higher - Customers reported disappointment when receiving lighter-toned bottles
The brand was clear: fragrance colour does not affect scent quality. However, the growing controversy around this issue ultimately led to the decision to pull the product entirely.
Introducing Vanilla 29: A Completely New Fragrance
Vanilla 29 is not a reformulation — it is a completely new fragrance. Kayali has confirmed that Vanilla 28 and Vanilla 29 smell nothing alike, marking a clear shift in scent profile and creative direction.
Key Notes of Vanilla 29
- Brown sugar - Tonka - Jasmine - Dark chocolate - Arabian dates - Cola
The result is described as a darker, already-macerated fragrance with a richer and more intense profile — a significant departure from the warm, sweet character of Vanilla 28.
Built on Customer Feedback
One of the most notable aspects of Vanilla 29 is that it was shaped directly by audience feedback. The brand acknowledged that customer comments influenced the change, that community input helped refine the scent direction, and that the new release reflects what fans were asking for. This makes Vanilla 29 not just a new product, but a direct response to its community.
Why This Matters for Fragrance Fans
In today's fragrance market, transparency and community engagement are increasingly important. Kayali's decision highlights how brands are now actively adapting based on consumer behaviour — even when it means discontinuing a signature product. For collectors eyeing the Kayali Vanilla 28 vs Vanilla 29 comparison, the bottom line is simple: these are two entirely different fragrances built for two different moods.
Final Take
The end of Vanilla 28 marks the close of an important chapter for Kayali, but it also signals a bold step forward. With Vanilla 29, the brand is moving away from confusion and controversy, introducing a completely new scent identity, and listening closely to its audience. For fans, it's both a farewell and a fresh start — one that could redefine the brand's next phase.
