Guerlain Shalimar Eau de Toilette (EDT) for women, launched in 1925, is a lighter and more refreshing interpretation of the original Shalimar Eau de Parfum (EDP). While maintaining the iconic, sensual, and oriental character of the original, Shalimar EDT is more delicate and crisp, with a brighter, airier opening and a subtle sweetness that makes it more wearable during the day or in warmer weather. It is an elegant, timeless fragrance with citrusy and floral notes, underpinned by a warm, sensual base.
Guerlain Shalimar EDT Notes Breakdown:
Top Notes:
Bergamot: A fresh, citrusy note that adds an uplifting, bright start to the fragrance. The bergamot is crisp and zesty, giving the fragrance an invigorating opening.
Lemon: A sharp, tangy citrus note that enhances the freshness of the top. The lemon adds a burst of brightness that lightens the fragrance, making it feel more refreshing and lively.
Mandarin Orange: A sweet, juicy citrus note that complements the bergamot and lemon, giving the fragrance a bright and sunny character. It adds a fresh and tangy sweetness to the opening.
Heart Notes:
Jasmine: A creamy, sweet floral note that is rich and intoxicating, adding depth and sensuality to the heart. The jasmine in Shalimar EDT is still prominent, offering an elegant and feminine floral presence that is balanced by the lighter EDT formulation.
Rose: A soft and romantic floral note that adds a touch of sweetness and grace to the heart of the fragrance. The rose is subtle but enhances the floral bouquet, making it more nuanced and sophisticated.
Iris: A powdery, woody floral note that adds a refined and elegant touch to the heart. The iris in Shalimar EDT contributes a sense of sophistication and elegance, making the floral composition more complex and multi-dimensional.
Base Notes:
Vanilla: A rich, creamy, and warm note that gives the fragrance its signature depth and sensuality. The vanilla adds a comforting, gourmand sweetness to the base, creating a soft, enveloping finish.
Tonka Bean: Adds a sweet, nutty, and slightly spicy dimension to the base, enhancing the warmth of the vanilla and toning down the richer elements of the fragrance.
Opoponax (Sweet Myrrh): A balsamic, resinous note that adds an exotic, warm, and slightly smoky quality to the base. It gives Shalimar EDT a deep, mysterious, and oriental touch without overwhelming the lighter structure of the fragrance.
Civet: A musky, animalic note that is subtle yet adds a sensual, animalic undertone to the base. The civet enhances the warmth and depth of the fragrance, making it more complex and alluring.
Overall Impression:
Guerlain Shalimar EDT is a lighter, fresher version of the classic Shalimar EDP, retaining the oriental character but with a brighter, more citrusy opening. The top notes are refreshing and sparkling, with bergamot, lemon, and mandarin orange creating an invigorating and lively start. The heart remains rich and floral, with jasmine, rose, and iris providing a sophisticated and feminine bouquet. The base is warm and sensual, with vanilla, tonka bean, and opoponax adding depth and a soft, comforting sweetness, while the civet brings a sensual, animalic touch.
Shalimar EDT is ideal for those who love the original Shalimar but prefer a lighter, more everyday version. It is perfect for daywear, warmer weather, or when you want to wear something elegant and timeless without the heaviness of the EDP. The EDT is slightly more airy and bright, making it a versatile and wearable fragrance that can be enjoyed in more casual settings while still maintaining the signature luxury and sensuality of the Shalimar line.
If you're looking for a fragrance that has classic appeal with a modern twist, Guerlain Shalimar EDT is a perfect choice. It captures the essence of the original while offering a fresher, more approachable option that can be worn anytime.
