On my skin the rose is the predominant note followed by a background of the cocoa butter and custard. I don't detect much of the carnation. As it dries down the rose takes a backseat to the custard, but still lingers in the background. Normally I'm not a huge fan of rose based scents, but the added sweetness and creaminess of this perfume has changed my mind. I prefer this to Sugared Roses, which to me is more of a "green" fresh-cut rose scent. All in all, this is a beautiful perfume.