Our take
What does Bonbon Pastel smell like?
Viktor & Rolf launched Bonbon Pastel in June 2019. It spins off Bonbon, the caramel gourmand from 2014. Cécile Matton and Serge Majoullier composed this eau de toilette, pitched as the lightest in the series. The opening is fresh. Bergamot and mandarin fizz while cardamom adds an aromatic kick. A marine accord called Aqual brings a breath of salty air. It is the most curious detail in the formula. The heart moves to orange blossom, backed by Neroliwood, a woody material that stretches the neroli. The base keeps the caramel from the original Bonbon, but turned down low. Amber, musk and sandalwood make it soft rather than sugary. Compared with Bonbon, which is very creamy and sticky, Pastel feels almost sheer. Anyone who found the original cloying will see it as an easy way in. Everyone else may find it too timid.
When to wear it
A spring and summer eau de toilette for daytime. Four sprays, since the freshness fades quickly.
It belongs to the Floral, Gourmand family. Bonbon Pastel is one of 12 creations by Viktor & Rolf in our encyclopedia.