Shalimar
The archetype of the Oriental fragrance family. A sharp blast of bergamot melts into a smoldering, resinous base of vanilla, leather, and incense. Wearing Shalimar is wearing history.
Composed by Jacques Guerlain
Check price on AmazonWhat Shalimar smells like
Top notes
bergamot, lemon, mandarin
Heart notes
jasmine, rose, iris
Base notes
vanilla, opoponax, tonka, leather
How to read this
Top notes arrive first and last around fifteen minutes before giving way to the heart. The heart notes carry the true personality of the fragrance for the first one to two hours. The base notes emerge slowly and are what remains on skin and fabric long after the rest has faded. They define the lasting impression and the depth of Shalimar. Read our full guide to fragrance notes.
How it wears
Longevity
10h
Sillage
strong
Season
fall/winter
Occasion
evening/formal
Price tier
$$
Year
1925
Longevity explained
Measured in hours on skin with a standard four-spray application at 20°C. Individual results vary with skin type and conditions.
Sillage explained
Close means it stays on skin. Moderate means people nearby will notice. Strong means it precedes you into a room.
Price tiers
$ is accessible under £60. $ is mid-range at £60 to £120. $$ is premium at £120 to £250. $$ is luxury above £250 for 50ml.
Who is Shalimar best for?
Best for
Best for her
Occasion
Evening and special occasions
Season
Autumn and winter
Office / Work
Apply lightly
Date night
Excellent choice
Gift idea for
Girlfriend, wife or mother
Shalimar is the ideal fragrance for women who want a oriental / amber scent for evening and special occasions. Its strong projection means one or two sprays is enough. Apply with restraint in enclosed spaces and offices. With exceptional longevity of up to 10 hours, it delivers strong value per wear and holds up throughout the day without needing a reapplication.
Shalimar is at its best autumn and winter. It works particularly well for evening and special occasions, and its premium price tier makes it a considered, deliberate addition to a collection. As a gift idea, it lands well for girlfriend, wife or mother, especially those who appreciate oriental / amber fragrances.
If you are still exploring options, browse all oriental / amber fragrances in the Perfume Finder to compare longevity, sillage and price side by side, or add Shalimar to the comparison tool to see it measured directly against alternatives.
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About Shalimar
Shalimar performs best primarily in cooler months when ambient warmth amplifies its character. Its oriental / amber character and strong sillage make it well suited for evening/formal occasions. Because it fills a room and announces itself confidently from across a space, you can calibrate your application to the setting. Starting with two sprays on pulse points and adjusting from there is a reliable approach.