Our take
What does Hot Couture smell like?
Alberto Morillas and Jacques Cavallier composed Hot Couture for Givenchy in 2000. The opening hits you with raspberry, juicy and a little tart, brightened by bergamot and orange. Pepper comes in quickly. It gives the heart a prickly warmth that was unusual for a floral of its day. Magnolia brings a lemony creaminess. Vetiver, placed in the heart rather than the base, adds an unexpected earthy dryness. That clash between sweet fruit and dry root is what makes it interesting. Sandalwood, amber and musk form the base, warm without being heavy. Despite the name, it behaves like a well-cut evening outfit rather than a loud one. More recent descriptions from Givenchy seem pared back, which suggests the formula has been revised.
When to wear it
Autumn and winter, evenings or dinner for two. Two sprays, as it projects generously.
It belongs to the Floral, Oriental / Amber family. Hot Couture is one of 48 creations by Givenchy in our encyclopedia.
