Our take
What does Classique smell like?
In 1993 Jacques Cavallier created Jean Paul Gaultier's first perfume, sold at first as JPGaultier Eau de Parfum and renamed Classique in 1995. The corseted bust bottle, packed in a tin can, did as much for its fame as the scent itself. Published pyramids disagree, but a common core keeps coming back. Rose and orange blossom open on a powdery note, pricked with star anise and lit by mandarin. Ginger and ylang-ylang fill the heart, with iris pushing the face-powder effect further. Orchid already leans toward vanilla. The base is a fairly dense amber vanilla, softened by sandalwood and tonka bean, with musks that recall made-up skin. Le Male followed in 1995 with the same torso-in-a-can idea for men.
When to wear it
For autumn and winter evenings, and for anyone who enjoys unapologetic powder. One spray on the neck is enough.
It belongs to the Floral, Oriental / Amber family. Classique is one of 22 creations by Jean Paul Gaultier in our encyclopedia.
