Fragrance: Guerlain ‘Shalimar’

Guerlain Shalimar

Four centuries ago, in India, Emperor Shah Jahan fell hopelessly in love with Princess Mumtaz Mahal. He had the enchanting Gardens of Shalimar built for her and dedicated the Taj Mahal to her as well, one of the seven new wonders of the world. This incredible tale sparked the imagination of Jacques Guerlain, who created Shalimar, the first oriental fragrance in history, in 1925.

Notes

Top Notes: Florals, Bergamot

Heart Notes: Iris, Jasmine, Rose

Base Notes: Vanilla, Tonka Bean

Perfumer: Jacques Guerlain

My Thoughts

Some of my favourite perfumes fall into the ‘Florential’ fragrance family, so it’s amazing to think that Guerlain’s Shalimar was the first ever florential perfume created. It opens with a heavy hit of zesty bergamot and heavy aldehydes florals. The heart is rich with a garland of heady rose, sweet iris and addictive jasmine. The base is made up of rich, sweet vanilla and woody tonka bean. It’s a heady combination of aldehydes, florals, fresh citrus and rich vanilla. It has that feel of a classic fragrance, the kind which you can imagine the likes of Marilyn, Greta, Judy or Ingrid wearing. It’s true glamour and it’s oh-so-fabulous. This perfume isn’t for everyone, but the best things in life are not appreciated by all. Personally, I have fallen head over heels in love with it. In fact, I have fallen for Guerlain in general, I have also been loving Aqua Allegoria Limon Verde which is a fresh citrus fragrance and to be honest, I’m desperate to explore the full collection!

Guerlain Shalimar is available from John Lewis, House of Fraser and Selfridges.