Shalimar Eau de Toilette

In the year 1921 Justin du Pont, a worker at Guerlain, brought to Jacques Guerlain a little bottle of synthetic vanilla. Jaques (third of Guerlain) mixed it with Jicky, added some spices and Shalimar was made. That's what we know, what was told. If I shorten... More accidents than a precise plan. They say. Is that true? We don't know. Good accident then. It's a wonderful perfume and one of my favourite ones. Masterpiece, like many from Guerlaine. I like it so much I can sleep in it. Because it has such majestic Base notes. Guerlain’s Shalimar was heralded as the first “Oriental” perfume, a blend of flowers with essential oils that originated in Asia. I would say that I think this is the first known woody spice fragrance. It's very early, very much like dry soil, mirrored in the zesty citrus top notes. Heady florals flow into a spicy base that is particularly rich in vanilla, incense, and sandalwood. That's how Shalimar is. Earthly love story. It opens with lemon and Bergamotte. In general, I adore Bergamote. I can sniff the peelings forever. In this scent, you can smell it. It's not strong (I would make it stronger) still it's there and it melts, literally melts with vanilla, then floats... This is a perfume that celebrates Bergamote and Vanilla. "Vanillin was first isolated as a relatively pure substance in 1858 by Nicolas-Theodore Gobley, by evaporating a vanilla extract to dryness and recrystallizing the resulting solids. In 1874, German scientists Ferdinand Tiemann and Wilhelm Haarmann found a way to synthesize vanillin from coniferin, a glycoside of isoeugenol found in pine bark (they went on to found a company which now belongs to Symrise and produce it industrially). In 1876, Karl Reimer synthesized vanillin from another source: guaiacol. The laboratories De Laire bought the patent for vanillin and sold the product to Guerlain for their perfumery, first used in Jicky. But, Jicky already contained vanillin along with natural vanilla extract, as well as coumarin and linalool. The secret to the medicinal, smoky yellow vanillin of Jicky, reprised in Shalimar, was the remnants of guiacol and phenols, lending autumnal darkness to what would otherwise be a confectionary sweet cream. This is the reason that Guerlain insisted on ordering the impure grade of vanillin even when the chemical process was improved." Famous perfumer Ernest Beaux (Chanel 5), realized that Shalimar was a great perfume and thus complained: "When I do vanilla I get crème anglaise, when Guerlain does it he gets Shalimar!" Jean-Paul Guerlain has said: “Vanilla is famous as an aphrodisiac and I think that this is true. My grandfather, Jacques Guerlain, taught me how to love vanilla as it adds something wonderfully erotic to a perfume. It turned Shalimar into an evening gown with an outrageously plunging neckline.” Elisabeth Barille said, “‘While examining a sample of vanillin, Jacques Guerlain suddenly poured the entire contents into a nearby bottle of Jicky, just to see what would happen.’ The result: Shalimar.'” Monsieur Guerlain has a different account of Shalimar’s development and composition. He writes that Thierry Wasser, Guerlain’s current nose, is “not an advocate” of the Jicky-vanillin theory because he thinks the development was much more complicated. (I also think that btw). According to Monsieur Guerlain (and presumably Monsieur Wasser), the key ingredient was actually ethylvanillin which is relevant because it is “many times stronger and creamier than vanillin.” Because of its strength, Monsieur Guerlain writes that Jacques Guerlain “sequestered himself in the laboratory and worked methodically to try to offset the intense vanilla odour with resinous, powdery and, not least, citrus notes.” As a result, over “thirty per cent of his composition consisted solely of bergamot oil.” (kafkaesque) Oh yes. If you don't loveeee Bergamote or vanilla, don't buy this. Simple. The wife of Raymond Guerlain made this scent visible. Wearing it everywhere. It was not a popular scent at the beginning. And interestingly, the USA is the place where it became popular first. The most prolific of the Guerlain perfumers, Jacques’ rein lasted for an astonishing 65 years. He took over from his uncle Aimé in 1890 and was responsible for creating the ultimate signature of Guerlain, the ‘Guerlianade’: an accord which blends vanilla, bergamot, balsams, tonka bean, iris, rose and jasmine, and has been at the heart of (almost) every fragrance since the early 1920s. Guerlain provided the blogger and Guerlain expert, Monsieur Guerlain, with the note list for the original Shalimar. According to his wonderfully detailed post on the creation and composition of the scent, it has bergamot, lemon, jasmine, rose, orris, opopanax [sweet myrrh], tonka bean, birch tar, patchouli, incense, vetiver, civet, castoreum, vanilla, musks. As a side note, The Perfume Shrine adds benzoin, Peru Balsam, and sandalwood to the note list. Divine. In these trendy times, they would make 5 scents out of components of this one. Guerlaine's most celebrated creations include L’Heure Bleu, Mitsouko and many others, with Shalimar... ending them with leather. If you have a good nose. It's there. Ahh, the artist he was. Parfumery master. The bottle is eternal beauty. It was more sophisticated at the beginning with living silver inside a blue crystal cover imitating a hand fan. Splendid. Raymond Guerlain designed it. Baccarat made it. The original bottle is Extrait. Of course, I find all this important and I think every perfume should be produced by original méthodes and placed into original bottles. And never allowed to be reinvented or to be a remake or even worse, remake of the remake. At least they could refill it for us. Well, at least the work of Elise Darçy the illustrator was not "remarked." They rather give popular faces, one after another, to this or a row of "reinvented" ones. I assume the parfumé industry is a good mirror to this mental society of clones and zombies. Wonder why they don't remake the Pochet & Du Courval colon water Shalimar bottle? With some green deal Eco recycled plastic cover. Fuj or award? Like the bottle that got the award in Paris at the 1925 Decorative Art Exhibition. Why perfumers love Shalimar: When we interview perfumers, we often ask which classic fragrance they wish they’d created or most admire. One of the most frequent answers? Shalimar, of course. Carlos Benaïm told us, ‘My grandmother used to wear Shalimar. It is magnificent, absolutely wonderful, with that mossiness – not just oakmoss, but the other mosses which we’re restricted from using so much these days...’ And Alberto Morillas – another nose often cited as one of the most talented perfumers working today – explained, ‘If you ask me what is the greatest fragrance ever created, I’d say Guerlain Shalimar. Some might imagine it’s old-fashioned but it’s also very modern. There are all sorts of contrasts inside it – but it works so well.’ (parfumesociety) While Mumtaz was alive, Jahan created a series of gardens for her at Lahore, gardens the like of which had never been seen before. He called them the gardens of Shalimar, the Sanskrit word meaning “abode of love.” From every corner of the Earth, the most fragrant and delicate blossoms were brought. Deep pools were built with crystal fountains and terraces paved in marble. The rarest birds were summoned to sing here and lanterns were hung to rival the stars. In the gardens of Shalimar, the lovers were truly happy, and Mumtaz bore fourteen children to her beloved Jahan. That's Shalimar. Feminine. Not feminist. Jacques Guerlain Perfumer 1890-1955 said once: "A good perfume is one whose scent corresponds to an initial dream."

It is hard to write anything new about the bona fide classic that is Shalimar, but it is such an important part of perfume history that I must try. Second only to Chanel No. 5 as the most iconic perfume of all (and that is contentious), Shalimar is the original modern oriental fragrance, and in my opinion, the best. Its groundbreaking use of vanilla paved the way for countless oriental and otherwise vanilla-centric perfumes throughout the twentieth century, and it is still utterly relevant today. It is fittingly housed in a beautiful and truly iconic bottle. I have several vintage miniatures in multiple concentrations, and my EDT dates from the noughties. However, having smelled a recent formulation, Shalimar has not been a victim of reformulation to same extent as other current versions of classic Guerlain scents. Perhaps this is simply due to it not being reliant on now-restricted ingredients (e.g. Mitsouko's oakmoss, Samsara's sandalwood). A thirtysomething French woman I know keeps Shalimar EDT in pride of place on her dressing table, citing it as the ideal concentration for modern use - "light and not too much". As someone who almost exclusively buys EDP where possible, I am inclined to agree - it is a more wearable, less opulent version of the French classic. Given the nature of Shalimar - a vintage-style, rich, spicy vanilla-amber oriental - the EDT performance is still good. However, being a Shalimar fan, I cherish my EDP and parfum concentrations too. Shalimar opens with fresh, juicy citrus notes, perfectly preserved. Tart bergamot and bright lemon give Shalimar its bright opening, before spicy notes and powdery florals creep in. Clean, heady jasmine and powdery rose form the heart, with some powdery iris rounding out the bouquet after a little while. The early presence of vanilla rounds out Shalimar at this stage, forming the famed Guerlinade accord, completed by the emergence of the softly spicy tonka bean note after a little while. Shalimar's use of vanilla is second to none - smooth, rich, giving just the right amount of sweetness, and tying everything together perfectly (standing in stark contrast to modern gourmands that rely heavily on sugary vanillin). The drydown is spicy-sweet and amber-like, but lighter and less ambery than in stronger concentrations, with the smooth vanilla taking centre stage. Sillage and longevity are moderate. I tend to reach for Shalimar in autumn/winter, being a warm, ambery scent. A slightly muted version of a timeless classic without compromising on composition, Shalimar EDT is ideal for daytime use, and is perhaps more palatable for modern tastes. 5/5.

I recently treated myself to a vintage version of Shalimar EdT - a 1978 bottle in the black-and-white zigzag box. Most of my collection consists of modern editions, with a few older bottles I acquired or received as gifts when they were new. But holding this one in my hands was different - it felt like holding a piece of history. After years of reading about vintage perfumes, their bottles, and the subtle changes they underwent over the decades, it was thrilling to finally turn theory into a tangible experience. I was slightly apprehensive about the authenticity of my find, but after carefully checking all the details and experiencing it firsthand, I’m confident it is genuine. The box is flawless, the liquid has retained its clarity, and the bottle and cap are free of scratches or damage. This perfume likely spent decades lying safely in someone’s orderly drawer, untouched. A recent Fragrantica article (https://www.fragrantica.com/news/Shalimar-Guerlain-A-100-Year-Old-Legend-Part-2-23930.html#cc326075) describes the 70s Shalimar, with the author sharing impressions that closely match mine. The main difference for me is that the bergamot isn’t particularly pronounced - there’s citrus, yes, but it comes across as subtle and demure. Naturally, every bottle will vary after nearly 50 years. What captivated me most is the perfume itself. The opening and settling phase reveal a distinct buttery note reminiscent of Millésime Tonka, though without its spiciness. Vanilla and Tonka form a delicate, harmonious synergy - rich and delicious without tipping into gourmand territory. An airy benzoine note floats above, with smoke kept gently in check, unlike some modern versions where it dominates. Orris lends a soft, powdery roundness, never suffocating, just perfectly balanced. The overall effect is uplifting and transparent - light yet undeniably luxurious. It’s ideal for those who find the EdP too heavy. While Shalimar retains its signature sweetness, it is never cloying; Tonka, vanilla, and even the incense create the timeless stage that makes Shalimar, well, Shalimar. Holding this perfume, I felt a connection across time - a fragment of 1978 preserved in pale golden liquid within its glass flacon. The best kind of magic potion, if you ask me!

The other day I was celebrating my birthday with a few of my best friends at a wine bar. I was wearing Shalimar as a contrast to my clothing that was all douce corals that day. On my way home I was stopped twice and asked what I was wearing. First time by an older gentleman, wearing a tailored suit and a butterfly adorned with sequins. I complimented his outfit (as he did mine) and he then asked me what perfume I was wearing, since he had smelled it as I sat next to him on the train. I told him it was Shalimar and he lightened up and said that he did think it was familar. His oldest sister, who was long gone, had been wearing Shalimar all her adult life. He loved it and always wanted to buy it for his wife, but eventually didn’t because it was his sister’s signature. Now the wife had passed away too and he regretted not having bought it for her anyways. I asked him if there wasn’t someone else significant, he could perhaps gift it to and once again he lightened up. He would buy it for his daughter, who he knew loved perfumes as well. I told him it sounded like an amazing idea, somehow honouring all three of them - his sister, his wife and his daughter. He thanked me and went in to the evening with a huge smile on his face. Just 15 minutes later a young all denim-clad girl queing right behind me at the grocery store wanted to know what was that fab perfume I was wearing. I told her it was Shalimar and she asked where to buy it. Her birthday was coming up too, so she would put it on her wish list. I wasn’t surprised that the older gentleman both knew and loved it, but a little that the young girl wanted it too. But my faith was restored after a fantastic afternoon with some of my besties and I promised myself to wear my Shalimars more often as they are indeed still stunning.

SHALIMAR EDT (VINTAGE) formula 80s. As I have said on other occasions, Shalimar has a wonderful structure, it is not for nothing that it is an icon of perfumery. This old school beauty smells absolutely beautiful in my opinion. It looks similar to the Edp but of course it differs a lot from the current versions. Here at Shalimar Edt (vintage) we find a lot of wealth in terms of quality of ingredients, this one is denser, more complex, powerful and of great intensity. Also, as expected, the Guerlinade structure is very present. It opens with a slightly fresh, citric and floral smell (citrus, lemon, bergamot, tangerine) but these chords don't scream loudly, they are there, they are noticeable but in a very subtle way. Fusing from the start with the heavier notes. Guerlain's sumptuous vanilla predominates. This vanilla is not too sweet, but rather resinous, balsamic and even somewhat liqueur. (Tonka bean, benjui, opoponax) a vanilla wrapped in a very powdery cloud (Iris) and incensed with animalic notes. (castoreum) The latter, bringing intensity, richness, warmth and sensuality to the fragrance with well-defined leather nuances, all beautifully balanced. Jasmine, rose together with iris absolute (dusty with woody accents) are the opulence in the majestic heart of this Oriental-floral. Little by little it makes way for a background with warm amber accords, submerged in soft incense smoke. Imparting refinement and depth to the composition. An absolutely captivating and elegant perfume. A composition in perfect symphony and beautifully presented. Great masterpiece by Jacques Guerlain. The substantivity on my skin reaches 8/9 hours, although the next day I still perceive the warm and amber smell on my arm. Diffusion is moderate to mild.

I've reviewed a number of Shalimar flankers here on Fragrantica but have yet to review the original - I suppose because all words are superfluous at this level of greatness. One possibly little-known fact is that Benazir Bhutto, late Prime Minister of Pakistan, gave a bottle of this scent to her father Zulfikar Ali Bhutto whilst he was a political prisoner and awaited execution. It was his favourite and he had worn it all his life, and he wanted it to accompany him at the very end. Indeed, there is no occasion for which this scent can't be a faithful companion! Shalimar exemplifies the concept of a fragrance pyramid - it smells strongly of aromatic bergamot in the opening (and even causes a tingle on my skin from the concentrated citrus). This, gradually, yields to a vanillic (ethyl-vanillin) base replete with sweet resin, incense, leather, animalics and powdery iris. Words don't do it justice though, because it is infinitely greater than the sum of its parts, it comes together to create a whole other world of untold possibility. It is a journey, it is a philosophy, it is a weapon of mass destruction. You're lying in the Indian evening heat, with patterned fabrics draped across the ceiling and windows as everything that smells good when lit - burns. Briefly, I'll offer that I prefer the EDT to the EDP - the EDT has a slightly gentler bergamot, and the base is more civet-rich. The EDP (which is also beautiful and an obvious 10/10) is stronger (unsurprisingly) and has a leathery quality to the dry-down, with less prickly civet. Desert winds blow dust about the temple.

Vintage Yet Timeless Citrus-Iris-Amber... Opens with a citrus-amber burst of bergamot, iris & vanilla, and already the Guerlainade is present. Underneath is what smells like opoponax, or seasoned leather-y resins, with something near salt & pepper accents. Alongside there’s a vein of something soapy here, although I'm not sure what it is. The tonka bean in the base isn't what I typically think of as tonka, but it's there, and the vanilla gains momentum the longer it's on the skin, and the longer it's in the bottle. I like this version from the Shalimar range at the moment (although I bounce around as to which one’s my favourite), and I find this works well in spring & fall, although it can be worn year round for vintage yet timeless vibes. Contrast to Shalimar EDP Guerlain: Both have the Shalimar & Guerlain DNA, but the EDP has amber, warm-spicy & animalic touches more forward, while the EDT has bergamot, iris & fresh-spicy touches more forward. The EDP wears best in winter, while the EDT is easier to wear year round. Contrast to Shalimar EDC Guerlain: Again, both have the Shalimar & Guerlain DNA, but the EDC has a lemon-y citrus-vanilla more forward, while the EDT has bergamot, iris & fresh-spicy touches more forward. Both could be worn year round, but I would be most likely to wear the EDT is spring-fall, and the EDC in summer. Overall: gorgeous vintage citrus-amber with a timeless feel, and excellent performance. It's a longtime love for me. 10/10. Enjoy!

Finally got this iconic perfume in Sydney almost a month ago by accident. Couldn't believe I bought this since here in my country, it's no longer available. I was able to test this one on my skin and what I remembered was the awful opening. Sharp citrus! I didn't wait for it to settle down and I immediately washed it off. BUT! When I went to Sydney, I came across a store and I was surprised that it's available, together with the EDP, Jicky and many other Guerlain perfumes. I bought it right away thinking I should give this one a chance. It's autumn that time and when I finally sprayed it on my skin, the sharp citrus hit my nose as if I was punched. Lol. But this time, since its cold, I noticed that it behaved quietly, slowly evolving into a nice, cozy vanilla scent. Not too sweet which I like very much. Sometimes it smells powdery, sometimes leathery, sometimes the Jasmine edges. I'm amazed by this perfume because for me, it literally evolves on my skin and even on clothes. I'm a man btw so I can say this one can easily be worn by men. For me, it smells like a scented lotion and lotion is genderless so anyone can use it, hence, same with this perfume. Don't be afraid to try this one. With regards to how vintage this is, I can say, yes there is, but still can go along with the modern perfumery if not can still give an edge to the new ones. Hopefully, I can buy the EDP version but for me EDT is the most versatile.

I have waited a long time to enter the gates of Shalimar. It has haunted me through literature and the screen. Today my very first score has arrived in the post. I took my time opening it like it was a precious jewel. I'm savouring my first cloud, in the air and in a whisper as it hits my skin. At once the archway to the casbah invites me in, a beautiful Arab beckoning me to follow him. (of course, he is a Royal Prince in disguise who has escaped the Palace grounds and his minders.) Naturally I follow him, but I feel I am being followed. Followed by my mother whose presence is announced by puffs of Johnson's Baby Powder which she liberally applies after bathing. I think my Aunty Pat must be lurking somewhere as well as Youthdew and Chantilly float by. Mmmm, where will the Prince lead me? I'm not sure, but I am willing to follow him to my conclusion. UPDATE. By the evening I was already in the arms of my Prince, his strong arms holding me in a warm glow. By morning I had become a true addict, my first thoughts on waking being, Oh God, let me sleep like that again. But once awake, nothing could stop me reaching for that bottle (sat on my bedside table so I could look at it as I fell asleep.). I just had to feel that first citrus blast again, only knowing the beauty which would then unfold again. Shalimar should be a class A drug.

I didn't know the sandalwood I've been looking for was right before my eyes. On me, this is mainly sandalwood and incense, enhanced by powder, and balanced by citrus and vanilla, with a faint floral touch. This is a very very pleasant surprise. Recently I got a collection of guerlain classics sample, thought I should at least have this reference. I love sandalwood and have been checking many fragrances. I was surprised to find this reminds me of a recent favorite sandalwood: ambra Nobile by Nobile 1942. The sandalwood Amber patchouli thing going on with citrus and powder in this fragrance, although seemingly far apart from Shalimar, Is in my scent memory reminiscent of Shalimar edt, Only I prefer Shalimar edt. Easier to find, for less, and the scent is deeper and has a sexiness that the rather a-sexual ambra nobile doesn't. (Still love it). I'm not a citrus lover but I Ike the presence of citrus here. It opens with a citrus burst like a classic men's cologne but that fades within minutes, making way to the beautiful creamy incensy cloud. It is familiar, and I find that a plus in this case. My experience with classics was not very encouraging since Chanel no.5, (which I hated when I first tried it way back), but now I'm more open to explore more classics. Next is Shalimar edp.

I blind bought this as I intended to buy Samsara, but the bottle of Shalimar was so appealing I ended up with both! At first I wasn't sure if I liked it - it smelled powdery and sweet and definitely reminded me of something my Nana wore (I think the powdery smell reminds me of old fashioned cosmetics - whereas modern cosmetics try and smell more lightly/ fresh floral). I let the beautiful bottle sit on my counter for a good few months until I visited the Guerlain store on the Champs-Elysees and had to go in. I ended up buying Shalimar Souffle EDP which I simply adore, and which ended up being a sort of gateway drug to the original Shalimar collection. The EDT opens with more citrus than Souffle and is arguably sexier, but a little harder to wear (I still wear it to the office and in general day to day but don't overspray!). It dries down to the most delicious powdery vanilla and I can't stop smelling my wrist. I'm keen to get a bottle of EDP one day and compare - although I live in a very warm area and EDT is already deliciously heavy (even in winter). Edit: I realised I've been adding one(ish) word summaries of all the perfumes I review and neglected Shalimar. I'm actually having a hard time coming up with one, but for now I'll settle on "like an embrace."

I own a few of the older bottles of edt. I would say 60-70's so back then Guerlain said that was basically their EDP. I have to agree as these are way stronger than my current edp of this. The Bergamont in this is still very strong like the old Marley horse extrait. The vanilla so boozy, and the dry down is like the most wonderful incense with a vanilla that is not powdery. The leather note is there but not as strong which I prefer. These bottle I have I can't truly date. I can say its the Zebra box's with silver around the label on one box. Where the other has the edt label like the old big 70's bottles. They have big brown plastic tops that scream 70's but one could be 60's?!? They are not removable and these only come in 1 and 1.7oz. The scent is sooo good I adore Shalimar but I'm a sucker for only the vintage edt. The bergamont, vanilla, tonka, and personally I like that there were no restrictions back then.I get why there are some standards but they should only be to ensure quality and efficacy. We should make our own choices with common sense. I think we're intelligent enough to do so. This though if you can find a bottle get it!! I've been on the hunt ever since and am amassing a lot but is it ever enough with Shalimar? :)

It is a beautiful warm blanket of iris, incensy amber, and extremely delicate citrus. It’s so odd that such fresh notes create such a warming concoction but nonetheless they do! Definitely not a blind buy as it is by no means a modern fragrance, BUT if you do like it yet worry that others might not, the EDT has a rather intimate sillage so you can wear it as more of a personal experience. I would love for this to beam off me so maybe once I’m done with my bottle of EDT i’ll check out the EDP. A beautiful fragrance that smells just as rich as it’s history. Edit: after many, many sprays, I have some more thoughts, as time has gone on I like it more and more alas the EDT has some problems. I had previously restrained from wearing it as anything other than a night scent as I felt it was too feminine and mature for a 19 year old boy ALAS once I started wearing it out I quickly realized just how weak it is. In an air conditioned house you catch whiffs of it for hours, but when you wear it out it only lasts around two hours before it’s completely gone, even from your clothes. My desire to move on to the EDP gives me an excuse to spray massive amounts of my current 3.4 oz bottle so that is always a plus!

I love Shalimar. It is such an iconic fragrance and one I'll never be without. I've worn, love and own Chantilly in both the Houbigant vintage and the New Dana version. Emeraude I also own and love. Each fragrance IMHO are individual scents and stand on their own merits. I don't really think of them in comparison to each other. I love the Shalimar EDT. Everything that some people don't like about the EDT are the things I do like. The bergamot delivers an almost medicinal soothing balm effect to my state of mind when I spray it on. After I've worn it for the day I'm left with this rich warm incense that is altogether elegant and comforting. I wear it mostly in the cooler months and it's always a favorite of mine around the holidays. Cinnabar and Shalimar complete the holiday scent list for me. Edit: I'm not sure if it matters but my Shalimar is from a gift set of lotion, powder and EDT and is over 10 years old. I haven't smelled the one in the newer bottle. I'm getting ready to restock and will probably get another older fluted bottle to replace mine. The powder is luscious. BTW, not a huge fan of the style of the new non-fluted bottles but as long as the scent is the same that's what matters.

Despite already owning a good old EDP, I've decided to get myself an EDT because why not, and that way my greedy little soul can use the EDT version on casual daily basis whilst keeping my nearly 8 years old EDP for more special times. Certainly, there are differences between EDT and EDP. Shalimar EDT smells more sharp, it has a more dusty/powdery start with strong blow of bergamot that sometimes does give the baby powder vibes, which some of other users commented on below. To be fair, the baby powder thing usually lasts a very short amount of time and reminds more of a bit dusty bergamot tea that comes in metallic tins. After a while, the sharp and powdery start is rounded up by vanilla and jasmine. So essentially, this is the same Shalimar, and if you let the EDT mature for a while, it'll be just as great. While I'm very much satisfied with Shalimar EDT, it's super long lasting and I really want to reach for it every single day, I found that the scent sits a bit too close to the skin. May be a bonus for some, a downfall for the rest. Either way, a huge thumbs up for this version. I've always been a huge fan of Shalimar, and I'll always be.

Magnificent. You need a full bottle of it. Don't ask. Gives me a beautiful Middle Eastern vibe. One need some mood for it, def not for "unemotional" days. Juicy. I had quite a story with it. I see now it is a kinda behemoth of a perfume, but in my circle no one ever bear to think about fragrances - as those are far from an essential needs. Now I'm discovering this world and once I got a sample of Kashnoir. It has literally sent me flying the moment I sniffed it, I couldn't part with it and used that 2 ml by a week. I couldn't believe they made it themselves and that no one is talking about it, also I never smelled it on anyone, which was weird for me, as if I found a gem no one knows about. It was too good, so it should've been somewhere I believed, and it was times better what people wear usually for the same price, so I checked Fragrantica for a "reminds me of" section. That's where I've found Shalimar obv and everything took it's places. P.S. Kashnoir is a lighter and "colder" version of it, because of the lavender note I believe. Try it, if Shalimar is too offensive to you.

I am becoming a Shalimar addict. After I bought the most recent Millesime Vanilla Planifolia flanker, sadly impossible to find anymore, I HAD to try more Shalimars. I was not touching the EDP because when I had it years ago I could not tolerate its “gasoline” note. So I blind bought the EDT based on the reviews here. And I am glad I did. I am falling in love with EDT more and more every day and am no longer terrified of running out of MVP. The key difference in EDT, compared to MVP, is the loud and bright bergamot top note and a lot less vanilla in the top and middle. The vanilla that shows up full force in the dry down is very similar to the vanilla in MVP, you just need to wait for it. I also sense some of that “gasoline” from the OG Shalimar, but it is very much subdued and actually makes the EDT special and memorable. I don’t mind it here at all! If Shalimar EDP was too much for you, EDT may be a better place to start your Shalimar journey.

This is one of those classic perfumes that almost as soon as you smell it, you know why it's so famous. This smells like an absolutely lovely but fairly simple vanilla-resin accord from a distance, but the closer you get, the more greatly complex it becomes, as you begin to make out the opoponax and the other florals and spices. In this way it invites people to get closer to you... especially since it is long-lasting and noticeable, but not overpowering. What's also so remarkable is how timeless this is, and how gender-neutral it has become. Although it is for many people the reference vanilla, and has resin behind it, it's not that sweet. Men should feel very able to wear this, and I honestly think every masculine fraghead should try it, just as with Mitsouko and Aromatics Elixir (two other classic feminine fragrances that are so perfectly made that you will instantly realize why they're considered references the first time you smell them).

Had to abandon my last bottle, and all my other treasures, when I fled the Battle of Khartoum. Maybe some RSF Janjaweed is enjoying it now. Before then, I'd always had it in my collection. With sometimes crippling synesthesia, it was the one fragrance I could wear with for any mood or color, even a black dress or deep in the blues. It's costly and scarce in Egypt, so I do without. But I dream about finding a bottle in a Cairo antique den, literally: it is a recurring image that appears in my head when I sleep. If anyone knows the shop, do point me there. I seems vain even to try to parse the notes when it's a creation of alchemy and genius. Bergamot, rose, jasmine, iris and vanilla, of course. But it's like asking what I'm tasting in an authentic vindaloo. Jacques Guerlain vanilla is the only vanilla I want outside the kitchen because, in Shalimar, it's self-actualized and knows its place. It would be my last meal on death row.

A love to hate to love again? I got my bottle of Shalimar EDT in the fall/winter of 2021, and it was the only thing I wore for months. Got me through -20oC with no issues. I used up like half the bottle until spring came around and I moved on to other fragrances. Fall 2022, I tried it and I smelled a strong bergamot followed by a strong leather??? It smelled nothing like it did the year before. No vanilla, no tonka, no florals whatsoever. I tried it over and over again for months but nothing changed. I legit had a tiny existential crisis, and I put it away. I reached for it again earlier this month, and it's back to what I remember from 2021? What is going on?? As for my review (for now), very subtle citrus opening almost immediately followed by a warm, powdery vanilla. Smells like soap in the best way possible. Definitely not for people who don't love older, more-mature leaning scents.Pretty strong and long lasting for an EDT.

This is one of my all time favourite fragrances. It takes the intensity and sexiness of the EDP and the beautiful citrus treated leather aspects of the EDC and turns out something magical. This was my first introduction to the magic of Shalimar and I've owned three bottles of it in total. I've heard this compared to Dettol, which is an (I think) Australian antiseptic cleaner scented with orange rind oil. I do understand this. I, personally, only get a powdery leather and vanilla with a strong bergamot opening. I truly can't even begin to describe how beautiful this is to me. I just purchased another bottle because I wasn't finding the EDP to be as comforting to me and needed some o' that beautiful Guerlainade that Jicky wasn't giving me. This is truly individual from anything else from the house and anything from any other house

I was so lucky I scored a vintage bottle from 1991 from a older lady who needed money and I got my $23 worth and so much more. The bottle is so neat it looks like something that would have see sitting on Mom's dresser in the seventies when I was growing up. It has a lovely spicy opening with a floral background where the vanilla creeps in and gives it a seemly powdery scent which is so lovely. I can smell the jasmine and Iris not the rose that dries down into a light vanilla, leathery scent. The scent is alluring, delicious and just beautiful, Provides a good projection for a toilette but remember this is a vintage bottle where I personally feel the notes are stronger in scent and is quite long lasting. Working good in this cooler weather both during the day and at night! Wearing this makes me feel more like a lady.

If there is one fragrance that really doesn’t need another review it is Shalimar. If you are a fragrance enthusiast you already know that you need to try this one — it is the reference scent in the ‘oriental’ genre and therefore totally iconic. You’ll also know that having tried it there is a very good chance that you’ll fall totally in love with it. You really don’t have to make any effort — if she wants to captivate you she will. Deep and dark, rich and smoky— if you have ever loved an ‘oriental’ fragrance (eg., Black Opium) you will almost certainly love Shalimar. And if you love vanilla it’s all over. She’s been captivating people for nigh on 100 years and no signs of slowing down. Anyway you know you have to try it. Just be aware there is a potential life-long obsession ahead of you :)

In defense of Grand Dame Shalimar. The first real classic perfume I ever wore was Shalimar. I was about 15 and was in the city, went to the department store and tried some on my fuzzy sweater. I went outside into the cold winter air and was enveloped in the warmest creamiest yet bold vanilla I’d ever experienced. Walked right back in and spent all my after school job money on my own bottle. My love affair with Shalimar had waned over the years since and my old bottle of EDP sat gathering dust and started to smell of pencil shavings if I’m honest. Until, my partner travelled to Abu Dhabi and brought me back a big bottle of the EDT. Again it worked its creamy dreamy but big bitch energy on me. Wearing it every day of this Melbourne winter, with fuzzy sweaters and boots she’s a perfect match.

Shalimar Eau de Toilette works better on my skin than the Eau de Parfum: the citrus notes in the EdT are more prominent and longer lasting, which I find work really well with the vanilla and tonka, and stop them becoming too sweet. Though I like the smokier, incense notes in the EdP, they are quite fleeting on my skin, and it quickly becomes little more than plain vanilla (I get very lttle smoke or woody notes in the EdT). The Eau de Parfum doesn't have any more longevity or strength on my skin than the EdT; just a different balance of notes - though both are unmistakably Shalimar. The extrait is richer and deeper than either, but, unfortunately also tends to quickly become little more than plain vanilla on my skin; only in the coldest days in winter do darker, smoky notes develop.

Like a careering carousel of all Guerlain's 'greatest hits' on your wrist..a first sniff..Jicky is there and then in creeps Habit Rouge and then -wait a minute- there's L'Heure Bleue and isn't that even Mitsouko waving at the back? When I was a child, at Christmas we used to buy the Radio Times Christmas special. I would feel a strange emotion with this television and radio guide. It always paraded the most familiar faces on the front covers and more within that even as a child I had the smug joy of believing these famous celebrities were my friends and my friends only and here they were -- in my living room. Revel in the smug joy of knowing all these Guerlain celebrities and having them all performing at the same time : a private showing, an ensemble theatre just for you.

I have a late 80s bottle of the edt and a 1960s, maybe even 1950s bottle of the parfum extrait...its absolutely insane how modern this smells yet how extremely high quality and natural it is at the same time. I dont know about new bottles but the older ones have one of the best bergamot notes ive ever smelled...in anything. And me personally, i dont think its quite as "powdery" as alot of people say but it certainly has a powdery aspect (that relents as it dries down). Not only the bergamot, the vanilla is absolutely incredible. I believe those two notes in the forefront together is what makes shalimar shalimar, even after all these decades. It nears literal perfection. This is all coming from a vintage super macho type fragrance fan, and i love wearing it.

Shalimar edt opens citrussy and a bit herbal. After a little while I get a small smoky whiff of wet ashtray together with the bergamot – but it only lasts for a few minutes. After about fifteen minutes it starts to mellow out and the vanilla arrives at the scene together with the iris. The vanilla is a bit smoky without feeling heavy. It is not girly sweet or dessert-like. It dries down soft, powdery vanilla, very beautiful - and I’m surprised to say very wearable. The sillage is moderate. I was a bit intimidated to try this and afraid it would be too much for me. Too vintage, too heavy, too dark/smoky/animalic. But it is neither. I am testing from a freshly opened, around 20 year old mini and I think I need to get my hands on a full bottle soon.

....100 years (in 2025) and still going strong. Seems like it was created yesterday. When they did this, some state of bliss must have pervaded the creator, because he guessed a certain taste, pinpointed a successful likeability that lasted 100 years and overcame fashions, decades, eras, trends .. you name it. A timeless masterpiece, very modern, very wearable. Feminine but not overtly so, for sure elegant, seductive, and cozy. I have both formulations (edp and edt) and love both; i wear the edt when i am surrounded by other people and don't want to be too present with my scent, or in Summer; the edp is always noticed and complimented, it's stronger more leathery and more pronounced spicy vanilla.

This was actually my second Guerlain blind buy (risky, I know!) that I've tried and absolutely adored after Champs Elysees. I was lucky enough to find a 3oz bottle for $15 on Ebay :). In the initial spray, you're consumed by light vanilla notes and powder. In the dry down, there's just a hint of amber-ish notes on my skin. It's romantic. Dreamy. Lovely. This is probably the most beautiful and complex perfume I've ever tried...and this is just the EDT version! I imagine the EDP would be more suitable for evening wear. The projection is moderate but it has this comforting, closeness, and sensual quality, like a big warm hug from your lover, that you will appreciate throughout the day.

I own about 20 bottles of Shalimar in various concentrations and vintages, not including flankers. Each bottle has it's own personality. My favorite is an eau de toilette in a flat, rectangular bottle from the late 70's. It has such a gorgeous, bright, beautiful bergamot opening. This fresh and intense note is missing from every other bottle of Shalimar I own. In more modern formulations, that bright and sparkling bergamot note is fleeting or barely detectable or smells a bit (dare I say it) odd. It seems each decade of Shalimar has it's own distinct twist. If you've tried one you have not yet tried them all.

I've been collecting pretty hard for about 7 years now. This is a classic that I finally got my nose on. I have a vintage, not very old. I heard men enjoy wearing this. It is a little powdery from the iris I guess. Yeah it is very nice and enjoyable, not very feminine. A nice woodiness in the base. Not as much vanilla as I imagined. A little spicy, floral. Just perfectly blended. Guerlain. Not much citrus in my vintage. Maybe it's faded. The vanilla did get more dominant towards the dry down. This is not a linier fragrance. It changes quite nicely. Beautiful dry down. Rating: 9/10 God bless. John 3:16

Wow! just got a sample of this and it's hard to describe. Starts off very powdery and nostalgic. Smells like something a rich older woman would wear (doesn't smell "old" imo, just the vintage/nostalgic vibe it gives). It fades into a more vanilla, powdery, borderline leather-y smell. It settles into something that I would consider sexy and high end. If you don't like powdery scents, I would avoid this. It is unique and even though I don't believe I've ever smelled it IRL, it is very nostalgic. I would wear this for a fancy night out, I think it is too formal for everyday. Definitely give this a try!

I absolutely adore the scent. Its a textbook make-up powder fragrance which still manages to be unique. It’s a pity it has weak sillage, and performance is I guess what you would expect from an EDT. It’s a non-offensive scent which I’m sure will get you many compliments, mainly because it’s delicate and soft. Despite the vintage vibe and how long it’s been around, it smells modern and chic. A young gal can pull it off just as well as a 60 year old. I’m not mad at Guerlain for modernizing this one, it’s a job well done. I happen to find this one to be suitable for daytime as well as night time.

Finally tried Shalimar tonight. It is so warm and cozy, just a tad sweet with a little spice and such a comforting vanilla. It is like a warm hug and a fragrance of love. I thought this before I even read Heathermarie’s review and I so agree with her. I went on eBay and bought another bottle immediately after sampling, for the first time ever. So simple yet so beautiful. Thank you, Guerlain. I want my future husband to wear this while we cuddle before a warm fireplace. Such a finely crafted unisex scent. No wonder it is one of the most famous perfumes ever. It’s a love.

I've been in love with this fragrance since last December. It was first recommended to me by my Grandmother who recalled the fragrance as I mentioned to her that I was searching for a new scent to try. She told me that it reminded her of Italy, and when she went to the opera with my Grandfather. A part of me was a bit skeptical at first, but as soon as I tried it, I was in love. It was a big hit with my Grandfather as well, who recognized the scent as well. I very much recommend Shalimar. Its scent lasts throughout the day- and its memory lasts generations.

Shalimar EDT is possibly the most classic, elegant, magical perfume I have ever had the pleasure to smell. It really is a masterpiece. Its so comforting and sensual. The powdery floral, smoky incensey vanilla and sparkling bergamot is a symphony for the olfactive senses. I'm glad I chose this over the EDP as I feel it may have been too animalic and intense for me. This is still intense and has a presence but its still soft and envelopes you in its beautiful vintage powdery aura. Its remarkable. I have a 50ml bottle and already want a bigger backup bottle.

Shalimar edt wow!! I like also the edp because I love the powdery perfumes, but this.. is a huge surprise! It opens up powdery but I can also smell the bergamont. It is a little bit sweet with the powderiness and at the dry down comes the vanilla and make it more special! For me the edt is feminine and classy and clean and cosy at the same time! Perfume for life! It is a guerlain perfume for years and years and I can really understand why ❤ huge respect for this perfume and even if you don't like the edp try this one and maybe you will love this!

Let's be clear, even if this stuff was the world's no.1 man repellant, I would still love it and spritz it about my person with gay abandon. As it is, my boyfriend loves it so much that every time he smells something nice on me - something vanilla sweet and darkly smoky - he inhales deeply and says, "Mmm... is that Shalimar?". This is such unusual behaviour for him. I can only conclude that his first olfactory experience with this was so powerfully positive that, now, every good scent is 'Shalimar'. Not a bad response; not bad at all.

I’m so very blessed to own a fab 3.3 bottle of Irissime by Jacques Fath as well as Shalimar EDT. Today while wearing Shalimar EDT (Iris forward) I had an epiphany, I refreshed my Shalimar, then sprayed two small spritzes of Irissime on my chest and blouse. Oh, My, Gorgeousness! What an amazing experience! I call it “Velours d’Iris” It’s velvety cool Iris from both fragrances with the rich warmth from the (vanilla-Tonka in Shalimar). Absolutely heavenly! I think I’ve at long last, found my signature scent!

The vanilla is phenomenal, extremely deep like when vanilla ice cream has actual vanilla bean flakes rather than just being white-colored. Guerlain's marketing talks a lot about their vanilla and while I recommend being skeptical of marketing, this lives up to all the hype. Really only the vanilla and tonka make an impact, I barely notice the florals at all and the bergamot is pretty much gone after a couple minutes. But the vanilla-heavy base that endures smells great and that's what matters most

Starts off intimidating; almost amber-like in its aged sharpness and depth. Then, it becomes a refined blend of spicy vanilla with oriental flourishes. In my experience, Shalimar has the reputation it deserves. It stands tall with an aura of intrigue, mystique, and great exaltation. That said – the more I smell it, I actually can't decide if I love it for its complexity and depth, or hate it for being so headache-inducing. But who am I kidding? I'll be back for more...

I was surprised when i tried this for the first time. I really thought it was going to be a more typical vintage perfume. Don't get me wrong, i love vintage scents, but a lot of them smell a bit similar. This started of very fresh citrusy and then the leather and incense just attacked me and that's when i fell in love with it. Those notes made it so much more modern and interesting. The perfume got darker in a way. Drydown is very sweet vanilla cozy amber.

Když jsem ho 18ti poprvé zkoušela, vůbec mi nevoněl. Přišlo mi to, jako vůně pro "starou bábu". Bylo na něm ale něco, co mě přitahovalo zkoušet ho čas od času pořád dokola. A dneska jsem se do něj naprosto zamilovala. Ostrý, begamotový úvod se rozvoní do naprosto božské kombinace kosatce, zakouřené vanilky a tonky. Miluju to a jsem ráda, že ho konečně mám na poličce, protože flakon je nádherný. K Shalimaru musíte dozrát. Mně to trvalo 14 let.

Please, please, do yourself a favor and hold judgement on this classic until this has been on your skin for a few hours. It totally transforms through the wear, and when a perfume lasts like this, it is worth the wait (not that I dislike the powder). The first couple hours will be powdery, but just wait for the vanilla, because that is what will stick with you and remain on your clothes for days after application- dirty, earthy, vanilla.

I prefer the EDP personally. This does smell like a lighter version of the EDP without the punchy leather, civet, incense, and dried oranges. Now, it's still Beautiful. Very dominant iris note. It's relaxing rather than the shock of the EDP. The EDT is much more crowd pleasing and safer. I'd wear this one to church or dinner with the girls. It's lightly vintage, so it's not sexy to the modern nose. Very proper, sophisticated, classy.

This is powdery with a light sweetness. A very feminine and grown up fragrance. It opens with a beautiful citrus note and flowers, but doesn’t take long to develop like the EDP does. It gets straight to the point without being overbearing. It’s amazing any time of the year or day. I tend to wear this to bed, because it’s comforting. This is for anyone who has a hard time with the EDP. This one maybe more your speed.

Wearing this fragrance is like holding a seance with my beloved late grandmother. She used to wear it on special occasions, like taking me to the ballet when I was a child. Like her, it’s strong, unapologetically glamorous and utterly unique. A bewitching oriental fragrance of citrus, amber and vanillic smoke, creamy yet powdery. Now I’m in my forties I love it just as she did. True beauty is timeless.

I got lucky and got the 100ml vintage version in a old gorgeous bottle and what can I say : it’s heavenly ! It reminds me a lot of « eau de shalimar » which I have also , it’s like a creamy vanilla citrusy meringue pie with hints of spices I can’t believe how good it smells , i only hope the last version is as good as the old one for the future but I will cherish every drop of it

After not wearing it for a few months, I felt like wearing Shalimar today. I kid you not, I’ve received at least half a dozen compliments in just a few hours. Crazy! It usually smells good, but something about how it’s wearing today is different. There’s a reason why the Shalimar line is still alive and well. She keeps mesmerizing people. Don’t give up on her too soon.