The word intense is a flexible term in the fragrance world, while elixir is clear. It’s a magical potion guaranteed to induce love. Editor Trudi Brewer shares why fragrance elixirs are on the rise.
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If you have spritzed on the latest elixirs from Jean Paul Gaultier, Loewe, Gucci, and Elie Saab, or have been lucky enough to drink in the scent of Dior's Sauvage Elixir or Boss Bottled Elixir on warm skin, you will know how hypnotic they are. Enter the world of a rich, complex, and often indulgent elixir perfume. First, this complex fragrance is made differently from most perfumes or colognes.
Elixirs feature luxurious ingredients, often referred to as refined gourmands or rich Orientals. These contain delicious fruits, precious woods, exotic resins, and the finest floral absolutes. Elixirs contain delicious fruits, precious woods, exotic resins, and the finest floral absolutes. Each drop has a higher concentration of fragrance oils than traditional perfumes. Typically ranging from 20 to 40 per cent, compared to the 15 to 20 per cent found in EDP (eau de parfum) or intense perfume. More and more designer brands are offering elixir options to cater to those who crave a bold, luxurious scent that makes them feel exclusive. According to Jenine Guerriero, Givaudan's head of marketing and consumer insights, in North America, consumers are looking for heightened emotional and physical experiences. “There is a deep craving for products that engage multiple senses simultaneously, fragrance, texture, colour, intensity, and immersive storytelling. The need for feel-good moments and true joy is closely tied to the power of play and escapism. This is very relevant with younger consumers who are incredibly curious and adventurous and want fragrance experiences with maximum impact.” However, if you prefer a fresh eau de toilette with a floral or an airy, citrusy scent, an elixir may not be for you. They are intense with mysterious fragrance notes that evoke a sense of warmth and intrigue. It’s worth noting they do come with a hefty price tag, but you could call an elixir an investment in how to smell amazing. Read on to discover an elixir to suit every fragrance taste.
Elie Saab Elixir Love EDP, from 30ml, $142
It’s not surprising that a bridal couture designer knows how to craft a luxurious, lasting fragrance. This elixir is both opulent and remarkably feminine. Featuring Damask rose essence and a mouth-watering impression of cherries, stacks of heady Jasmine absolute, and neroli. But it’s after a few hours that the warmth of oak moss and patchouli emerges. It’s a sweet, warm, spicy, floral scent that was made to be intensely sensual.
Kayali Oudgasm Rose Oud 16 Eau De Parfum Intense, 50ml $283
An ode to what the brand calls the queen of blooms, this scent was created to evoke pleasure. Luxurious ingredients combined with the art and rituals from Middle Eastern traditions of fragrance layering, it’s an exotic blend. First is a fruity burst of pear, lemon, and herby geranium, then the rich Bulgarian rose and peony give it a floral heart. As a warm, creamy, woody floral, you will also find vanilla cashmere wood in this scent.
A unisex masterpiece that will make a memorable impact thanks to its unique sensual quality.
Gucci Guilty Elixir de Parfum for Women, 60ml, $289
Fresh yet full-bodied from the first spritz, thanks to the blend of bergamot and mandora, which smells like zesty blood orange and fresh mandarin together, as well as elegant violet. Then, after a few minutes, you will notice its floral assets, including wisteria (slightly watery, like the scent of sweet pea), rose, and Osmanthus, which brings nuances of summer fruits like peach, plum and apricot. Finally, the earthy patchouli, vanilla and tonka bean leave a trail of ambery warmth that, in true Gucci style, will be admired by anyone who crosses your path.
Boss Hugo Boss Bottled Elixir Parfum Spray, 50ml, $168
This spicy Oriental scent is offset with citrus-y vetiver and cedar. Created by fragrance royalty Annick Menardo and Suzy Le Helley, it’s a potent scent that has also been layered with spices, including frankincense and cardamom. While it was made with a man in mind, we love wearing it too. It leaves a warming and lasting aroma on the skin for hours. This is one elixir with a potent addictive quality.
Jean Paul Gaultier Le Male Elixir Absolu,75ML $200
It’s been coined an aromatic spicy fragrance thanks to the exotic ingredients. First, you get the crisp note of lavender, which transitions to the juicy heart of plum. The addition of spice, namely a cinnamon and cardamom blend, which is exquisitely offset by zesty bergamot. But it lives up to its elixir title thanks to the rich base of tonka bean, ambrette (Musk Mallow), and patchouli offering depth and refined texture. It would be remiss not to mention the bottle; it’s every bit as luxurious as it is sexy.
Carolina Herrera Bad Boy Elixir Parfum, 50ml, $185
It's hard to miss this lightning bolt bottle when you see it in stores. A tribute to the craftsmanship of the House of Herrera, it has an abundance of aromatic sage and mandarin, as well as a nod to the House of Herrera's premium leatherwork, the scent of refined leather with cedarwood. Finally, creamy cocoa adds a dimension of intense warmth and potent longevity. It too was made for men, but our style director, Louise Hilsz, is obsessed.
A new era for this luxury accessory brand.