Dolce & Gabbana have launched the Velvet Collection, a series of six haute parfumerie scents, each inspired by various parts of Italy.

The scents are a masterful mix of amber, citrus, floral, woody and spiced essences which recreate the Mediterranean mood.

The names of the fragrances are: Velvet Vetiver, Velvet Patchouli, Velvet Wood, Velvet Desire, Velvet Sublime and Velvet Love.

There is no clear gender distinction between the scents, though Wood and Patchouli are more masculine, while Desire, Love and Sublime are suited to women.

The velvet presentation box with its clean lines and gold plaque bearing the name of the scent make a Velvet Collection perfume a stand out Christmas gift.

The Velvet Collection fragrances are available at selected boutiques worldwide. Price: €170 ($195) for a 50 ml bottle.