To be honest, I’m not and never was the biggest fan of the Shalimar line (don’t come for me). They’re all a bit too vintage, and not in the best way. I tend to like vintage florals, not really sweet ambers and animalics. They end up smelling very dirty on my skin and the Shalimars are no exception. However, Millesime Iris is a gorgeous take on the original Shalimar with orris root as the lead actress (or so I thought)…
Although the orris is prominent, the caramel note in this is pretty intense and sitting right next to the caramel, is vanilla. Together, they make the scent sweeter than expected, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing but could be annoying for someone who is looking for an iris bomb with this. It’s floral gourmand that leans slightly more gourmand. Although, I love the bright bergamot in the opening. Millesime Iris is a well composed scent that pays homage to the original in a very classy and gentle way.
While I think the fragrance is absolutely gorgeous, I don’t think the scent itself is for me/fits my aesthetic (I’m not crazy about powdery frags) and I don’t know how much I’m actually going to reach for it. The longevity and sillage are moderate.
