Our sense of smell can be a fickle friend. Preferences shift with moods, age, and even the weather. The fragrance that once left you cold might one day become a cherished companion. Today’s review revisits Yves Saint Laurent’s Libre Intense, a scent that initially left me unimpressed, but on closer inspection, has revealed its true potential.
Libre Love and Libre Regret
The original YSL Libre holds a special place in my heart. It was the first fragrance I ever reviewed here, and its unique lavender accord captivated me. However, Libre Intense, initially encountered on a whim, left me underwhelmed. The warmth it offered seemed like a heavy-handed attempt to capitalize on the original’s success. Later explorations of the Libre flankers, including the EDT and L’Absolu Platine, didn’t reignite my interest in Intense.
Fast forward to today, and Libre Intense has surprised me. This time around, it feels like a more multifaceted exploration of the Libre concept, with the potential to become a timeless classic.
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Libre Intense: Unveiling the Layers
Launched in 2020, Libre Intense sought to build upon the original’s success by offering a warmer interpretation. At a time saturated with sugary gourmands and sharp florals, Libre Intense dared to be different. Its originality and meticulous craftsmanship resonated with many fragrance enthusiasts.
Here’s a breakdown of Libre Intense’s notes:
Top Notes: Lavender, Mandarin Orange, Bergamot
Heart Notes: Lavender, Tunisian Orange Blossom, Jasmine Sambac, Orchid
Base Notes: Madagascar Vanilla, Tonka Bean, Ambergris, Vetiver
The opening retains a familiar warmth from the original Libre, but with a twist. The tonka bean and vanilla add a noticeable warmth, creating a comforting aura. A soft whisper of lavender and citrus (mandarin orange and bergamot) emerges, although the bergamot feels less prominent compared to the original EDP. The vanilla’s presence is undeniable from the start, gradually unfolding as the fragrance develops.
As the heart takes center stage, delicate orange blossom and jasmine sambac peek through, but find themselves somewhat overpowered by the persistent lavender. This keeps the floral notes from becoming too heavy, allowing them to play a supporting role. The fragrance cools down in the base, revealing a harmonious dance of tonka bean, vanilla, and ambergris.
A Change of Heart: My Final Verdict
My initial dismissal of Libre Intense proved to be a mistake. This revisit allowed me to appreciate its unique take on the Libre DNA. The warmth it offers is pleasant and comforting, particularly for cooler weather. While the lavender might be a bit too assertive for some, it provides a distinctive character.
Ultimately, Libre Intense is a fragrance that deserves a closer look. If you’re a fan of the original Libre and appreciate warmer scents, Libre Intense is definitely worth exploring. However, if you find the original’s lavender challenging, Intense might not be the best fit.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How does Libre Intense compare to Libre Eau de Parfum?
Libre Intense offers a warmer and spicier interpretation of the original. The bergamot is less prominent, and the vanilla and tonka bean play a more significant role.
Is Libre Intense strong?
Libre Intense has moderate to good projection and can last for several hours on the skin.
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