Guerlain Shalimar. Eau de Parfum. For Women. 100 ml 3.4 oz fl.

Guerlain Shalimar Eau de Parfum is one of the most iconic and influential fragrances in the history of perfumery, often celebrated as the first true "oriental" perfume. Created by Jacques Guerlain in 1925, it is renowned for its sensual, opulent character and legendary longevity.

Inspiration & Story

• Inspiration: Shalimar was inspired by the legendary love story of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal, for whom the Taj Mahal and the Shalimar Gardens were built. "Shalimar" means "temple of love" in Sanskrit, reflecting the fragrance’s romantic and exotic origins.

• Launch: Introduced during the vibrant, liberated era of the 1920s in Paris, Shalimar captured the spirit of feminine freedom, allure, and modernity.

Fragrance Profile

Note Type Key Ingredients

• Signature Accord: Shalimar is famous for its plush, powdery vanilla base, enriched by smoky incense, balsamic notes, and the unique “Guerlinade” accord—a secret blend that gives Guerlain fragrances their distinctive character.

• Character: The scent is voluptuous, warm, and complex, opening with a burst of citrus and bergamot, transitioning to a rich floral heart, and settling into a luxurious, creamy, and slightly animalic base dominated by vanilla and balsams.

 Bottle Design

• Design: The bottle, designed by Raymond Guerlain and produced by Baccarat, is instantly recognisable for its elegant curves and deep blue fan-shaped stopper. It has become a symbol of luxury and French perfumery artistry.

Legacy & Significance

• Innovation: Shalimar was revolutionary, using ethylvanillin (a potent synthetic vanilla) and a high concentration of oriental notes, creating a new fragrance family and setting the standard for countless perfumes that followed.

• Cultural Impact: It remains a timeless masterpiece, beloved by generations for its sensuality, sophistication, and enduring mystique. Shalimar is often described as glamorous and comforting, making it a signature scent for many.

Summary

Guerlain Shalimar Eau de Parfum is a legendary oriental fragrance that blends bright citrus, lush florals, and a sumptuous, smoky vanilla base. Inspired by one of history’s greatest love stories, it is a perfume of passion, elegance, and timeless allure—an enduring classic that continues to captivate fragrance lovers worldwide.