I could talk about perfume for hours. In fact, I could probably write a whole essay on the stuff. Whenever I am chatting to friends and family, I love to ask them what their go-to fragrances are, and I'm constantly searching TikTok for other people's recommendations. As a beauty editor, there really isn't anything better than finding out all about people's most-complimented scents and sharing them with you all (alongside my own recommendations, of course).
So, when I saw one particular perfume popping up on social media again and again, I immediately messaged the work group chat to get people's thoughts. As it turns out, it's also my editor's go-to fragrance. If you're wondering what scent I am talking about, it's none other than YSL Libre. This perfume is adored by influencers, TikTokers, beauty editors and celebrities (Dua Lipa has been the face of the fragrance since 2019), and it's not hard to see why. Not only does the branded YSL bottle look stunning on display, but the expensive-smelling perfume features a concoction of sensual notes.
Intrigued to know more? Keep on scrolling for my in-depth review...
YSL Libre Perfume Review
The Notes
So, let's talk about the notes. What's interesting about this fragrance is that it combines typically masculine and feminine notes for a truly striking finish. Sensual orange blossom and rich, bold lavender are at the heart of the scent, with hints of vanilla and musk adding a slightly sweet, warm edge, It's a beautifully balanced, sophisticated fragrance that smells uber luxurious.
In fact, this perfume is so popular that there are now five different fragrances within the Libre collection. If you prefer a light, fresh scent, then I would recommend going for Libre Eau De Toilette, whereas those who prefer a more statement fragrance should opt for Libre Eau De Parfum Intense. Who What Wear UK's deputy editor, Maxine Eggenberger, is a big fan of the Libre Eau De Parfum Intense.
"I very seldom treat myself to a new perfume. When I say 'new perfume' I mean one I haven't worn before. And yet one day, when I arrived in town early to meet a friend, I took myself off to my local perfume counter to give myself a fresh tester spritz. By chance, I picked up YSL Libre and applied it to my wrists. Upon smelling it, I turned around, grabbed a boxed-up bottle and went straight to the check out.
“I don't know anyone who would describe me as a spontaneous person, so this was definitely uncharacteristic behaviour, but I was immediately hooked. I have the Intense blend, and its notes of vanilla, tonka bean, amber, vetiver and mandarin, among others, give it a warm, sultry payoff. When I smell it, I’m transported to an after-dark Parisian jazz club that’s only lit by candlelight and where the scent of Old Fashioned cocktails permeates the air. It’s fabulous, with a sweetness that isn’t too saccharine but enough to feel decadent.
“The first week I wore it, I received so many compliments on it—it’s definitely a people pleaser. My mum ordered it straight after stealing a spritz of mine in the bathroom of our favourite restaurant.”
The Longevity
If you're investing in a perfume, you want to make sure that it lasts. When it comes to this fragrance, you can be sure that people will be complimenting you all day long. In fact, when I was doing some research into the scent and reading customer reviews, I couldn't believe how many people commented on its impressive lasting powers.
One customer wrote, "Loved it so much that it was one of my wedding perfumes so had to restock! Would describe it as a very sexy, evening, and ultra-long wearing scent," while another added, "My clothes smell great for days and I get many compliments."
The Packaging
I couldn't talk about this fragrance and not mention the packaging. Housed in a clear bottle with a chic black lid, this perfume features the brand's iconic gold logo which means that you'll always want to have this scent on display. The bottle is also refillable which is a major plus.
To me, everything about this perfume exudes luxury, which is why I'll happily invest in the scent again and again.
Shop YSL Libre
The OG fragrance.
A more intense version of the signature scent, this fragrance features a spicy saffron accord.
A beautifully light take on the Libre scent.
With notes of white lavender accord, this fragrance is bound to turn heads.
I've seen Libre Intense all over TikTok, with people praising the warm, sensual fragrance.
The fragrance comes in a handy refill.
Yep, you can even get the fragrance in a hair mist.
And a body oil!
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