Our take
What does L.12.12 Blanc smell like?
L.12.12 is the reference number of the piqué polo shirt designed by René Lacoste. The brand turned it into a fragrance, and L.12.12 Blanc came out in 2011. No reliable source credits a perfumer. The opening is crisp: tart grapefruit and cool cardamom, made herbal by rosemary. The heart is a surprise for this kind of men’s scent. Tuberose and ylang-ylang lend a discreet floral roundness, almost creamy, while incense keeps their glow in check. Then the base heads toward pale leather. Cedar and vetiver give a dry frame, and suede ends on the feeling of soft skin. The whole thing smells of clean cotton and good laundry, with no showing off. Next to 212 Men it feels airier and less soapy. Think white shirt, not night out.
When to wear it
A light scent for spring and summer, fine for the office or the weekend. It fades fast, so keep the bottle close.
It belongs to the Floral, Woody, Musky family. L.12.12 Blanc is one of 11 creations by Lacoste in our encyclopedia.
