GUERLAIN Idylle EdT vs. EdP Review

For a long time I did not pay attention to floral perfumes. As a child and a teenager, I preferred heavy and spicy orientals, while all other types were completely ignored. I think that the root of my disregard of florals lies in the fact that I have somehow managed to develop a dislike towards a certain type of florals – think of the fragrances such as Yves Saint Laurent Paris, Lancome Tresor or Guerlain Champs Elysees. My mother, on the other hand, adores these fragrances, which meant that for my whole life I’ve been surrounded with the scent which doesn’t agree with me. It is no wonder that I have avoided them like a plague.

Fast forward several years. I’ve discovered what niche means and went on a hunt for my first niche treasure. This was Creed’s 2000 Fleurs. I don’t think you can get any more floral than that. I’m still absolutely in love with this scent, which was also my first floral experience that didn’t make me sick.

Now, onto Guerlain Idylle. Guerlain is well renowned in the fragrance domain. I’ve had a chance to test some of the classics, which has at first influenced my opinion on Idylle. At first I was disappointed with such a bland fragrance. It didn’t seem unique and I was far from impressed.

I don’t know about you, but sometimes I think about creating a fragrance. I have always wanted to capture a spring morning in a bottle. I simply cannot believe that it took me several years to realize that Idylle is exactly the fragrance that I would make.

Think of a spring morning in a forest; the sun is slowly rising, its beams catch the drops of dew on a lush green grass and white fragrant spring flowers. Idylle is an ode to spring. The bottle looks like a drop, which hides an essence of spring inside.

As I’ve said, this perfume very far from typical Guerlain. In the EdT Version, lily of the valley dominates in the top notes. Actually, lily of the valley is the dominant note which entwines both with middle notes and drydown. EdT version might be a bit aggressive, sharp – lilly of the valley punches you straight into the nose. I love it, but it might not be for everyone. Rose, white lily, jasmine and peony are blended together in the drydown.

I have tried EdP version as a sample, and this one is much milder, somewhat creamier, compared to EdT. Lilly of the valley is also present in the top notes, but it is much more subdued, more elegant. EdP is more musky and, at the same time sweeter, especially in the drydown

The staying power of both versions is impressive – EdT lasts for over 8 hours, while I had difficulties with washing off EdP after I wore if for 12 hours.

Notes: Lily of the Valley, Peony, Freesia, Lilac, Bulgarian Rose, Patchouli and White Musk

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