Symbole

Symbole has two different versions; a 1940’s and a 1960’s version. I have the 60’s although I believe it could very well fit in the 40’s. I also believe firmly that the nose is either Jean Carles or Paul Vacher. There is an uncanny similarity to Miss Dior and Ma Griffe. Symbole, the perfume that stays even if you have a hectic lifestyle. Light but tenacious. That’s what the ads say, and I believe it was part of a larger collection encompassing the same theme as Patou did with his Amour Amour, Adieu Sagesse and Que sais Je, but I can’t be sure as there is practically 0 information available. Symbole greets me with a very prim and proper Miss Dior feel. Aldehydes, a floral core rich in ylang, rose and jasmine. Powdery but at the same time serious. Fatty even. And from the get go, green and spicy! But Symbole smells like a green fiery chypre. Not far behind are rich oakmoss, leather, slight animal notes... it becomes leather prominent in the mid drydown akin to Bandit and Cabochard. Smoky, spicy, leathery but also cosmetic powder. It feels as if the flowers become richer with some gardenia nuances... Long lasting, good sillage, and in its day a more affordable perfume like Dana was back then. Serious quality without the hefty price tag. While Tabu never really clicked, Symbole and the 50’s to 70’s releases always felt more me. An excellent green and spicy chypre! Thank you to Elena V for adding this to the database 🤗

I didn't find this to be heavy on the leather. Reminds me of Madame Rochas. The early Dana perfumes are beautiful.