Our take
What does Champs-Élysées smell like?
Guerlain launched Champs-Élysées in 1996, named after the avenue where its historic boutique stands. Who composed it depends on the source: some credit Jean-Paul Guerlain, others Olivier Cresp. Descriptions differ too, and some call it a mimosa floral. The most commonly cited pyramid opens on peach and melon, very much in the fruity spirit of the 1990s. Rose, lily of the valley and lilac make up the heart, with blackcurrant adding a sharp green edge. The base is soft in the Guerlain manner. Benzoin, vanilla and sandalwood form a round, slightly powdery finish. The whole thing stays bright and springlike, without much depth. In 2021 the house presented a new composition under the same name, so recent bottles probably do not smell like those from 1996.
When to wear it
A spring scent for daytime or a smart lunch. Two or three sprays.
It belongs to the Floral family. Champs-Élysées is one of 99 creations by Guerlain in our encyclopedia.
