The Last Spritz

Popular fragrances

Score
90/100

Guerlain

Shalimar EDP

1990

A century of desire distilled into vanilla smoke and amber — opulent, ancient, and utterly seductive.

Shalimar
citrus
amber
woody

The take

What works

  • One of the greatest fragrances ever created
  • Defining oriental DNA
  • Century-spanning cultural relevance

Trade-offs

  • Heavy oriental — challenging for modern minimalist tastes
  • Reformulated from original

Notes

Top

CitrusesCitrusesBergamotBergamotLemonLemonCedarCedarMandarin OrangeMandarin Orange

Mid

IrisIrisPatchouliPatchouliVetiverVetiverJasmineJasmineRoseRose

Base

IncenseIncenseVanillaVanillaLeatherLeatherOpoponaxOpoponaxCivetCivetSandalwoodSandalwoodTonka BeanTonka BeanMuskMusk

Performance

Longevity
8–10 hours
Projection
Across a table
Sillage
Strong trail

When to wear

Spring29%
Summer24%
Fall86%
Winter94%
Day51%
Night100%

Occasions

Date nightSpecial occasion

Gender

Strongly feminine

Smells like

Similar scent DNA — if you own one, you may not need the other

You might also like

Different scent, similar vibe

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Shalimar smell similar to?

Closest matches in our database: Guerlain Habit Rouge Parfum (69%), Chanel Le Lion Eau de Parfum (65%), Guerlain Habit Rouge EDT (58%). Share scent family rather than DNA — not identical, but neighbors.

How long does Shalimar last?

8–10 hours on most skin (excellent longevity at 85/100) with strong projection.

When should you wear Shalimar?

Strongest in winter and fall, evening-leaning. Suited to date night, special occasion.

Is Shalimar worth it?

At $70–$110, yes — and the gap to the next tier up is real. One of the greatest fragrances ever created. Defining oriental DNA.

Details

Perfumer
Jacques Guerlain