Sunday, June 11, 2006

REVIEW: Guerlain, L'Instant D'Un Ete Pour Homme (2006)


Pros: Lighter, fresher, version of the original; not as sweet; added citrus notes; stunning bottle.

Cons: Is this really different enough to warrant purchasing if I already own the original?

Notes: Green Citron, Badiane, Elemi, Neroli, Pepper Rose, Grapefruit, Patchouli, Exotic Woods, Cedar, Sandalwood, Lapsang Tea, Cacao, Hibiscus.

Reminds me of: Surprise, surprise, smells almost exactly like the original.

Development: I've now tried this on 3 occasions, wanting to make sure I gave this fragrance a real chance. It goes on well, but overall has a "washed out" effect that takes me from application straight to the basenotes, with the top and middle staying faint in the background. The base is a light, ambery, almost musky tea and woods aroma.


Longevity: Stays perceivable for about 2 or 3 hours before becoming nothing more than a hint.

Sillage: Minimal - my skin just soaks this stuff up...

Where can I buy it? CHF 68.90 for a 125 ml edt spray at Marionnaud.ch.

Bottleworthy? Save yourself the money and wear less of the original and you'll achieve nearly the same effect.

The Bottom Line: Reminding me of other summer orientals like Pi Fraiche, Guerlain has attempted to create a new scent by adding stronger citrus to the opening and toning everything else down. The effect is pleasant - L'Instant d'un Ete is certainly wearable, and there's no arguing that it does indeed smell great - but in terms of creating something new and unique, this summer version crosses no new territory, and afterall, it IS a summer variation...Try this one before your inner addict forces you to buy it - you'll likely agree that this lime-tinged version of the original is nice, but ultimately unnecessary.

Rating (out of 10): 6

What's your take on the Guerlain summer variations?

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