Since Jacques Guerlain created the first Shalimar perfume in 1925, the growing collection continues to enchant and seduce, transcending even time itself.
The first Shalimar perfume was inspired by the legendary romance between an Emperor and his wife, with the magnificent Taj Mahal built to celebrate their eternal love.
This oriental masterpiece, with its harmonious blend of citrus notes, luxurious vanilla, and exotic flowers, now has several Shalimar additions that share the same DNA.
Best Shalimar Perfumes
With exotic citrus, florals and vanilla aromas, I’ve selected 5 of the best Shalimar perfumes that are evocative, luxurious and feminine.
1. Shalimar Eau de Toilette
Review
Launched in 1925, Shalimar Eau de Toilette is a powdery ode to the timeless romance of the Gardens of Shalimar.
Opening with the bright zest of bergamot and flowers, it soon unveils a heart of mostly powdery iris. The delicious vanilla-heavy base adds feminine sweetness.
Top Notes:
Bergamot, Fresh Floral Notes
Mid Notes:
Iris, Jasmine, Rose
Base Notes:
Vanilla, Tonka Bean, Opoponax
Seasons & Longevity
I recommend this scent for autumn, winter, and spring; it is ideal for dressy evenings. It lasts 6+ hours with moderate projection.
2. Shalimar Eau de Parfum
Review
Richer and more opulent, the Eau de Parfum version of Shalimar brings seductive incense and resin aromas to the classic fragrance.
The journey begins with bright citrus, leading to a luxurious powdery heart of iris. Vanilla soon emerges, supported by seductive aromas of incense, leather and resin.
Top Notes:
Bergamot, Lemon, Mandarin Orange
Mid Notes:
Iris, Jasmine, Rose, Patchouli
Base Notes:
Vanilla, Sandalwood, Opoponax, Incense, Leather
Seasons & Longevity
This is my winter go-to, perfect for those cosy nights in or lavish winter gatherings. Its warmth and sophistication will last you 8+ hours.
3. Shalimar Souffle de Parfum Eau de Parfum
Review
A modern twist on the classic, Shalimar Souffle is lighter and more airy, offering a fresh perspective on the legendary Shalimar essence.
A fresh, lemony opening is soon followed by a floral heart of orange blossom and Indian jasmine sambac. Vanilla and musk add plenty of depth.
Top Notes:
Lemon, Bergamot, Mandarin
Mid Notes:
Orange Blossom, Indian Jasmine Sambac
Base Notes:
Vanilla, White Musk
Seasons & Longevity
Ideal for spring, summer and fall, it’s my go-to for daytime wear, especially for outdoor events or a casual brunch lasting 5+ hours.
4. Shalimar Millesime Iris Eau De Parfum
Review
This 2023 Millesime Iris edition celebrates the noble flower of Iris, offering a more gourmand interpretation of the classic Shalimar fragrance.
It opens with a subtle bergamot note, quickly giving way to a heart of iris and a touch of rose. The elegant vanilla base gives a sweet, creamy caramel finish.
Top Notes:
Bergamot
Mid Notes:
Iris, Rose
Base Notes:
White Musk, Vanilla
Seasons & Longevity
I’d wear this elegant fragrance for autumn, winter and spring. It’s incredibly versatile and suitable for both day and evening occasions. Lasts 7+ hours.
5. Shalimar Extract Parfum
Review
Shalimar Extract is the quintessence of the Shalimar experience, offering an intense and luxurious take on the iconic scent.
Starting with bergamot and pretty flowers, it evolves into a floral heart of rose and iris before settling into a rich base of seductively spiced, leathery vanilla.
Top Notes:
Bergamot, Fresh Flowers
Mid Notes:
Rose, Iris, Jasmine
Base Notes:
Vanilla, Tonka Bean, Oppoponax
Seasons & Longevity
This is my recommendation for special occasions, regardless of the season. It’s the ultimate Shalimar statement of elegance, offering 8+ hours of captivating performance.
Conclusion
The Shalimar collection remains a timeless Guerlain classic, embodying love, sensuality, and the exotic mystique of the East.
I feel that each version offers its own unique take on the original scent, allowing you to find the perfect Shalimar to match your mood, season, or occasion.
Whether you’re drawn to the airy Souffle de Parfum or the luxurious depth of the Extract, there’s a Shalimar for every moment of your life.
Bonus: History Of Guerlain Shalimar
The Guerlain Shalimar perfume collection is a legendary fragrance that has captivated the world since its inception in 1925.
Created by Jacques Guerlain, it was inspired by the love story of Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal, for whom the Taj Mahal was built.
Shalimar, which means “temple of love” in Sanskrit, was one of the first perfumes to incorporate synthetic vanillin, combined with natural ingredients like citrus, jasmine, and rose, creating its signature oriental scent.
Over the years, Shalimar has seen various interpretations, each respecting its rich heritage and fragrance DNA while adding a contemporary twist.
Its iconic bottle, designed by Raymond Guerlain, is a tribute to the gardens of Shalimar, and the bottle’s blue cap represents the flowing water of the fountains.
