Exit the King by Etat Libre d’Orange – The Reign of Clean
“What remains when the king is gone?” That’s the existential question behind Exit the King, and while I expected something dark, woody, regal almost incensy from the name, what I got was something entirely different—and completely addictive, as in every other ELDO perfume. But this is the exact reason why this is one of my most beloved niche fragrance houses - every aspect and part of a perfume is up for play!
I was on a long search for a nice clean perfume, or rather a clean perfume that will match with me perfectly and my oh my, when my search brought me to this perfume I was so happy. This is the epitome of a clean scent, but not in the sterile or overly soapy sense. It’s fresh, airy, and modern, with a quiet complexity that keeps you coming back for more. I had this on my wishlist for ages, and it was love at first sniff—like stepping into a luxurious, surreal dream of cleanliness.
The opening hits with a distinctive, almost effervescent soapiness. But not the drugstore kind—think high-end, artisanal old-fashioned soap that you’d find in a boutique hotel tucked away in some European city. The soap accord is front and center, but it’s beautifully supported by sparkling florals (I get rose and jasmine most prominently), a gentle citrus lift, and the green earthiness of moss. There’s also a mineralic, slightly salty vibe that makes it feel like freshly laundered linen drying in the sun near the sea.
As it settles, the drydown reveals a soft, skin-hugging blend of musk and moss, but it never loses that “clean bomb” character. What makes Exit the King so special is that it’s a clean scent with actual sillage and character—it doesn’t just disappear into your skin like many others in this genre. It evolves gracefully and lasts all day on me, with moderate projection that makes it feel present but never overpowering.
In terms of gender, it walks the line perfectly. Some might find it slightly more on the masculine side due to the moss and mineral notes, but honestly, it feels completely unisex—almost genderless in that beautifully ELDO way.
If you’re someone who loves clean scents but wants something with depth, artistry, and a hint of drama, Exit the King is a must-try. It’s like a statement about letting go of excess, but done with style and a sly wink. A fresh scent with a story—and one that I’ll be reaching for over and over again.