The season of intense scents

When it comes to bestselling iconic fragrances, you're probably already familiar with these, says editor Trudi Brewer. Who shares the intense version of what will be a long-lasting scented gift this Christmas.

Image BeautyEQ

Image BeautyEQ

The ultimate gift of love is fragrance, and this summer these classics have upped the level of intensity. From well-loved original formulas to new complex florals, editor Trudi Brewer visited Life Pharmacy to discover this season’s scent is all about substance.

 

Givenchy l'interdit Intense EDP, from $125.

Steeped in luxury, this was the scent made for Hollywood movie star Audrey Hepburn, by fashion guru Hubert de Givenchy. Once forbidden, it’s now available for every woman to wear if you like a woody, floral aroma. The brand calls this reinterpreted version of the classic, "An intense Oriental floral of uncompromising elegance.” All thanks to sweet orange blossom, fresh green vetiver, tuberose, patchouli and vanilla, and a dash of salty, roasted sesame.


Givenchy l'interdit Intense EDP, from $125.

Givenchy l'interdit Intense EDP, from $125.

YSL Libre eau de parfume Intense, 30ml, $135.

YSL Libre eau de parfume Intense, 30ml, $135.

 

YSL Libre eau de parfume Intense, 30ml, $135.

If you like the original, this intense version is a concentrated blend of aromatic lavender, heady orange blossom and flamboyant orchid. It’s creamy and smoky all at once thanks to the modern woody-ambery base of vanilla and vetiver - this is the fragrance to wear on those humid summer nights.

 

Lancôme la vie est belle Intensèment, 30ml, $135.

According to Lancôme, “Happiness is a vibration that lives within all of us.” One sniff of this potent, yet sensual blend with bergamot oil, pink pepper, raspberry, spicy Sambac jasmine, orange flower, patchouli, iris and vanilla, will remind you why you love it so much. Be quick; this is one of the top-selling scents this Christmas.

Lancôme la vie est belle Intensèment, 30ml, $135.

Lancôme la vie est belle Intensèment, 30ml, $135.

 

Armani Si Passione Eau De Parfum Intense, $199.

In Giorgio Armani's words, "Intensity doesn't need to be dark.” This sweet woody scent embodies that. A vibrant floral, thanks to blackcurrant nectar, fresh jasmine, patchouli and creamy vanilla, once blended and packaged in the dramatic lacquer red bottle, it is the ideal gift this festive season.

 

Dior J'adore eau de parfum Infinissime, 50ml, $203.

Expect the compliments to flow, when you wear this bouquet of blossoms, from Dior. It features Centifolia rose, and the blend of exotic white summer flowers including jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, tuberose and Lily-of-the-Valley. But what gives it the creamy, woody longevity is the addition of exotic sandalwood.

Dior J'adore eau de parfum Infinissime, 50ml, $203.

Dior J'adore eau de parfum Infinissime, 50ml, $203.