Our take
What does Ysatis smell like?
Givenchy launched Ysatis in 1984. It was one of Dominique Ropion's earliest perfumes, years before Amarige and Alien. Nothing about it is shy. Aldehydes and mandarin open with a soapy sparkle, pricked by bergamot and green galbanum. The heart is a big white floral. Tuberose dominates, creamy and dense, with rose giving it body. Clove slips in a warm spice. Vintage versions also show a clear animalic, honeyed side. The base brings together oakmoss, patchouli, sandalwood and vanilla in an ambery chypre register. Reformulation has shifted the balance. The current version is fresher at the top, and its base reads less animalic and less mossy. Longevity and projection are still huge. Wear it lightly or it will walk into the room before you do.
When to wear it
Winter evenings, or any occasion where you are happy to be noticed. One spray is enough, and skip it at the office.
It belongs to the Floral, Chypre family. Ysatis is one of 48 creations by Givenchy in our encyclopedia.