Shalimar Souffle de Parfum Guerlain for women

Shalimar Souffle de Parfum Guerlain for women

main accords
citrus
white floral
vanilla
musky
powdery
sweet

Perfume rating 4.03 out of 5 with 3,658 votes

Shalimar Souffle de Parfum by Guerlain is a Amber Floral fragrance for women. Shalimar Souffle de Parfum was launched in 2014. The nose behind this fragrance is Thierry Wasser. Top notes are Lemon, Bergamot and Mandarin Orange; middle notes are Orange Blossom and Jasmine Sambac; base notes are Indian Vanilla, Tahitian Vanilla and White Musk.

Guerlain launches Shalimar Souffle de Parfum as a new interpretation of the classic oriental fragrance Shalimar from 1925, or, better to say, its modern version. Perfumer Thierry Wasser gave a new breath to this legendary scent through a sensual, sparkling and precious interpretation Shalimar Souffle de Parfum that comes in a blue bottle.

The scent is a delicate floral oriental. It opens with fresh and light citrus aromas of lemon, bergamot and mandarin. Indian Sambac jasmine and orange blossom water absolute make its sparkling floral heart. Vanilla from Tahiti and from India form the base together with white musk.

The fragrance is available as 30, 50 and 100 ml Eau de Parfum.

Read about this perfume in other languages: Deutsch, Español, Français, Čeština, Italiano, Русский, Polski, Português, Ελληνικά, 汉语, Nederlands, Srpski, Română, العربية, Українська, Монгол, עברית.

Pros

Pros

50
4
Sophisticated and classy
42
1
Fluffy, airy sweetness
32
3
Great for summer and winter
19
6
Gourmandy orange, lime, and lemon notes
16
6
Fresh and clean lemon scent
7
7
More grounded than Shalimar intense version
12
19
Gender-neutral
4
14
Reminiscent of baby powder, love, and memory-making
Cons

Cons

35
7
Not similar to original Shalimar
24
9
Not a true gourmand fragrance
8
31
Lacks depth and richness
1
18
Repulsive initial reaction for some
2
20
Disappointing for fans of original Shalimar
2
24
No connection to the Guerlinade
2
25
Doesn't live up to Guerlain's reputation
2
33
Smells cheap and like laundry detergent

Note: The pros and cons listed on this page have been generated using the artificial intelligence system, which analyzes product reviews submitted by our members. While we strive to provide accurate and helpful information, we cannot guarantee the complete accuracy or reliability of the AI-generated pros and cons. Please read the full reviews and consider your own needs and preferences before making a purchasing decision.

Fragram Photos
Perfume Pyramid

Top Notes

Lemon
Bergamot
Mandarin Orange

Middle Notes

Orange Blossom
Jasmine Sambac

Base Notes

Indian Vanilla
Tahitian Vanilla
White Musk

Fragrantica® Trends is a relative value that shows the interest of Fragrantica members in this fragrance over time.

Shalimar Souffle de Parfum News
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by Sanja Pekić

04/27/18 05:24
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Perfume longevity:3.26 out of5.

Perfume sillage:2.40 out of4.

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All Reviews By Date

The Scentimentalist

I like it but don't yet love it. Surprisingly tenacious for a light perfume. Vanilla is lovely as usual. Overall a sheer and delicate scent profile, fitting for the name souffle (breath). No this is not a lemon custard gourmand leaning perfume; Shalimar Cologne is more like that. The abundance of bergamot and musk at times seems a bit much, and out of place, even. I feel something else needs to be added to temper the bergamot musk duo and bring the composition back into balance.

densire

In my experience the first thing I got was a lot of citrus then it became citrus mixed with some florals. Its kinda is a skin scent but from time to time you can smell it without trying.

DearDalya

I honestly think people who said that has no power or silage are out of this world. Seriously? I Have a bad ph. Perfumes don't last in my not even 40 min. This is a beast! Very strong! Not light at all! Smells like a very good vintage perfume. The lemon ia strong only in the begining then IT becomes sweet floral musky and smokey. It smells so freaking good! Not soapy or detergent like in any way! Truly a masterpiece!

Saveria

This Souffle de Parfum smells very good; white flowers tinged with citrus (lemon, bergamot) and vanilla. Very beautiful and very feminine. But its big problem is that it has very weak staying power and non-existent sillage. It's the kind of perfume you wear for yourself because others won't smell it, what a pity!

If you like ultra discreet perfumes, this will be excellent, if not, it will not suit you. Finally, it lives up to its name, it's just a breath...

P.S: it doesn't smell like the original Shalimar which is much better and more imposing in my opinion.

momo363

Can it be found in Istanbul sephora ?

CLevol

Hi! Can anyone tell me please if this jewel is or will be discontinued soon?

ali9021

I can't lie, because I bought this perfume originally due to the bottle that had a peacock on the front and I was vaguely curious to know what a flanker of the iconic Shalimar would smell like.
Little did I know that this would turn out to be one of my favorites. The more I wear it the better I like it

This is an easy reach expensive smelling lemon pie meets floral musk gorgeous sweet rounded every day perfume.
It is quickly becoming my top 5 for life

Wigu90

My GF got this a month ago and we both noticed that the dry down is VERY similar to my old L'Instant Eau Extreme, with a much sweeter, floral, and feminine opening. But honestly, after 6 hours or so, I'm not sure if I'd be able to tell the two apart -- and just to be clear, I LOVED L'instant Eau Extreme, so I'm not complaining.

EDIT: Well, okay, I WOULD be able to tell them apart, due to the cocoa note in Eau Extreme, but still, the similarity is striking!

missparfums77

If you like Allure sensuelle by Chanel, it is a similar vibe, like a skin scent, with roundness and depth, and i smell, a saline and citrusy note, elegant fragrance , maybe for more for a 35+
nothing to do with shalimar ,not a tiny bit

Joseyfish

I find this perfume to be quite puzzling. I had expected, based on the reviews, for Souffle to be only vaguely like Shalimar, but still have some small connection to the original.

Nope. Souffle, to my nose, has zero identifying markers of the original. Even the citrus smells different. Souffle is a nice but generic light citrus white floral fragrance, but if you go in expecting it to smell like a Shalimar flanker, you’ll be disappointed.

Gabriella.0

I tested it in store. It doesn't remind me at all of the original, but it does smell really nice. While the original is more of a mature scent, this one is perfectly suitable for the younger plople too I'd say. It smells clean, soapy but not in a strong way. I can't say I love it because it didn't smell unique in any way, but it is certainly a nice, well blended scent

Chrisandra

I tested it 2 days ago in Sephora. I was soo disappointed.
On my skin as well as on paper, it smelled quite common (soapy, detergent-like) and it didn't last more than an hour either.
Very expensive, to top it off :(

Dani C.

The only recognizable thing from the OG Shalimar is Guerlain’s vanilla, so freaking good. Here we have a citrus vanilla goodness with a soft jasmin. A must-have for vanilla lovers.

bluejellyfish444

I'm surprised that this doesn't have more "summer" votes! In a good way, the smell is a bit similar to sunscreen, which brings memories of sunny days at the beach or pool. It also performs very well in hot weather!

kikolja

It brings me straight back to my university days. It was my go-to, my signature, my favorite, but oh boy, did it annoy my mother. To her, it wasn’t a delicate “souffle,” it was a “stench.”

This perfume and I had our days of glory, and it felt like wearing a piece of art. But here’s the catch. I had COVID. It messed with my senses, and now, this beloved scent isn’t the same to me anymore. The once magical blend now hits differently, it’s not as harmonious as it used to be, and wearing it is not an option anymore.

Don’t get me wrong, I still appreciate it. I love what it represents, the memories it holds. But my nose, it’s evolved, it’s changed. It doesn’t vibe with Shalimar Souffle de Parfum the way it used to. It’s a shame, really, but that’s life. Things change, we change, and so do our preferences, even for the fragrances we once loved.

LenoreHolly

Truly stunning and one of my few seasonless perfumes, it works all year round. I think I love it most in autumn and spring. I don’t often crave a fragrance like I do Shalimar souffle. Beautiful.

SunShea

October in a bottle!!! Reminiscent of falling leaves on a late, sunny, dreamy October afternoon. So cozy, wraps you in an imaginary cocoon and even better if you take your soft wool sweater or scarf. Magical fragrance!

rosatwo

I love this perfume so much that I started stockpiling this before prices skyrocket. (I loved Shalimar le Parfum Initial too, but I am not willing to pay the outrageous prices on E-Bay or Etsy. I will try L'Initial and I might buy it if it lives up to this flanker.) I do understand that fans of Shalimar are disappointed with Souffle - ( and le Parfum Initial ) but these perfumes deserve to be judged on their own merits.
Souffle is a lovely, light perfume with a touch of citrus and a hint of jasmine, orange flowers and vanilla. In my opinion it is elegant and - yes - ageless too. It has presence but it won't fill the whole room ( for hours....) and it won't leave anyone gasping for air.

perfume_angel

When I first purchased this, I think I was too young to truly appreciate its beauty. 3 years later, I now have grown to love Shalimar souffle de parfum.💛

It is a GORGEOUS citrus fragrance. I am not usually a citrus girl and I never enjoy citrus forward fragrances, but this one is something else. It is fresh, but warm and creamy at the same time. It smells like you baked vanilla cupcakes and decorated them with fresh lemon cream and extra lemon peel grated ontop. It smells very comforting and like a whipped lemon, not a tangy or sour lemon. It’s such a fluffy lemon and vanilla delicacy. 🍦🍋🧁

Also, this smells very high quality, sophisticated and elevated. It’s perfect for all weather because its fresh but still sweet and fluffy and creamy. Once it dries down, I mainly get a deep and warm vanilla.

Longevity and sillage is also good!

lyka

Tombée amoureuse de ce parfum, je n'aime pas le shalimar de base mais celui là est classe , passe partout, ne dure pas longtemps et pas de sillage sur ma peau mais si classe et si discret, convient par temps chaud. notes citronnées mais pas envahissantes, ceci est un véritable chef d oeuvre, dommage pout la tenue

thecellophaneflower

Absolutely stunning. It smells like May in the Mediterranean when the lemon blossoms and star jasmine blossoms mix and perfume the air. I usually hate vanilla on me but this is a delicate vanilla that is used to make the citrus notes feel more creamy. A creamy citrus fragrance is extremely hard to find, making this scent unique while still being wearable as an everyday or signature scent.
The only criticism I have is that the dark blue bottle does not match the scent at all. I would have never tried this delicate scent if someone hadn't recommended it to me.

winonahb

This scent struck me as gourmand, exactly like a lemon pastry containing vanilla, the first time I wore it. I waited until now to review it so I could examine some of the notes that develop. The opening still strikes me as positively edible. After a little while, maybe 20 minutes, I started to think it has some light green notes. I think that's the bergamot and orange flower combining. I just got a whiff of Souffle mixing with espresso, and that was surprisingly delicious. The musk is so nicely balanced with the other notes that I forget it's separate from them. I'm also delighted with how the vanilla blends with the citrus; when I try to do that with essential oils or perfume oils, it always smells like an Creamcicle. This is much more refined. I find it far more feminine than unisex, but I'd want to smell it on a few men before declaring it inappropriate for them. The lightly bitter notes that come through, plus the richness of the vanilla and the musk, could work very well for the right men. I originally thought this would not be strong enough to stand up to cold weather, but now I think I'll try it all year. I'd wear it day or night, too. It's also a scent that I might wear, in small amounts, at cafes and restaurants, because it interfered in the best way possible with the smell of coffee. It's gourmand enough to be nice in a variety of settings.

saho93

This is definitely easier to wear than Shalimar EDP. And I agree with many that it is only a shell of the original. I like Souffle and Shalimar EDP but for different reasons.

The OG is hard at first with a burst of sharp citrus, then the burning leather scent with soft floral in the background quickly takes over. This phase lasts a while. It is complex, unique with a dry down that is gorgeous with soft vanilla with character—because of incense.

Souffle is light from beginning to finish with lighter citrus that carries forward some freshness that is absent from the dense OG. The vanilla is also more of a whisper in Souffle. There is a definite powderiness that floats quite a long time—soufflé. I think floating silky powder is a better description than fluffiness. I would not characterize this as a sweet perfume.

I think this would go better in the spring, summer and daytime.

Bonus: the blue bottle looks exquisite.

suzanne_ronald

FLUFFY SOUFFLE of Tahitian Vanilla, Jasmine-Sambac & White-Musk. With only a faint trace of the original, this beauty opens with a citrus burst of lemon supported by multi-faceted bergamot, that deepens into a white floral heart of orange-blossom & jasmine sambac with powdery, sweet & soft-spicy nuances, all resting on a rich vanilla-musk base. Overall I get a bergamot opening for a jasmine-sambac & vanilla scent with faint nods to the original Shalimar. The jasmine here is unbelievably good with a lightweight feel. This was love at first scent for me.

Contrast to Shalimar EDP Guerlain:
These are very different, and there is only a faint trace of the Shalimar DNA in Shalimar Souffle de Parfum. Shalimar EDP is a much richer & heavier citrus-amber with a leather-y note not present in Shalimar Souffle de Parfum 2014. Shalimar EDP outperforms.

Contrast to Shalimar EDT Guerlain:
These are very different. Shalimar EDT is a much bolder citrus-amber with more forward iris & bergamot. Shalimar EDT outperforms.

Contrast to Shalimar Parfum Initial L'Eau:
These are very different, and Shalimar Parfum Initial L'Eau is closer to the original than Shalimar Souffle de Parfum. Shalimar Parfum Initial L'Eau is a sparkly version of the OG, with forward bergamot & iris, while Shalimar Souffle is a fluffy, vanillic version. Roughly equivalent performance.

Overall: Performance is average or slightly below average, but improves to above average with dark storage after first sprays. This is the perfect scent for just a faint hint of a vintage favourite, recognized only by those who know the original well. It's a love for me. Enjoy!

bittersweetpoison

A real beauty- this is my go to perfume when I’m in the office these days. It’s vanilla lemony sweet, but airy and creamy too. A nicely blended one with the always so sophisticated Guerlain DNA.

lady_ireth264

Apparently I put my review in the intense version hahaha so fixing it now, and put it here.

Oooh finally a Shalimar that works for me. It smells better on my skin than on the paper! The strong lemon punch of the original is dialed down. I smell lemony fresh citrus first, not sharp but juicy. Then after 2 minutes, it's rounded by sweet floral notes. Vanilla is still in the background, the sweet floral stays prominent for now. Enjoying this middle phase.
It's ethereal and pretty but great sillage. I can smell myself in this pretty cloud of lemony sweet flowers with a touch of spice.
This is not oriental gourmand, but definitely oriental floral.
So beautiful!
Happy to find this in a duty free!

PS: this is so devastatingly mesmerising! I love it so much and going to buy a backup bottle immediately. It's rainy season where I am right now, and Souffle is just perfect for the season! Curious to try this in the heat.

I think this is an absolute masterpiece! I'm swooning in ecstasy everytime I catch a whiff of it. I'd really like to try L'Initial and if possible other flankers. Standing ovation to Guerlain!!

b.a.denney

I just got this and I'm giving it a test run today. I have one spritz on each wrist and I have a noticeable scent bubble around me. If I had to sum it up in two words like Dossier does it's fragrances this would be: Woody Lemon. I find it to be a lot more woody than lemon. I see people think it's like dryer sheets smell or like lemon cleaner, which had me worried when the perfume was on it's way to me. I'm glad thats not the vibe I'm getting from this.

I've never been able to wear OG Shalimar much as I'd like to. This definitely has some of the DNA, but it's much more wearable. I was hoping to get more vanilla or musk in this, but as of now it's just a woody, powdery, very light lemon and I think the lemon is wearing off. It's nice and I would wear this any time of year.

Update: After wearing this for a few hours it becomes a skin scent after a couple hours and it dries down to a nice woody lemony vanilla. Ironically, no wood notes are listed so I think my nose is interpreting the musk notes as "woody". I can still smell it after nine hours when I move my arms around. I finally get some musk. The longevity is great which isn't usually the case for me.

inkhorus

I don't know why but I strongly prefer this to the original Shalimar. Please feel free to throw vegetables at me anytime.

Jmalone84

Sort of brown sugar with a little touch of citrus freshness, bit woodsy. Subtle, I kinda like it.

LanaDelSlay

It’s like citrus brown sugar on me

VMonster

Beautiful, luxurious, lemon souffle. No trace of the original Shalimar here, this is a lot more feminine and delicate. I sampled this but can definitely see myself enjoying a full bottle of this. I have found my favorite lemon scent in Noteworthy No. 144 but this is also gorgeous and signature scent worthy.

Unchat123

@Enrium it's "souffle" (breath), not "soufflé" (the dish).

Enrium

Soufflé is a much softer, airier version of Shalimar that retains the DNA of the original with emphasis on its dry vanilla note. A citrus-led vanilla-floral scent, it is a chic alternative to current sweet florals with a nod to the classic grande dame of perfumery. Where the heavy, old-fashioned oriental that is Shalimar might alienate younger perfume fans, Soufflé is a nice alternative, particularly for lovers of subtle scents. The beautiful dry vanilla note is at the forefront of this scent without being too sweet. It is a cosy, sensual, intimate iteration of Shalimar.

Soufflé opens with bright citrus notes, paving the way nicely to sweet orange blossom. The lemon of the original doesn't feature as prominently here - Soufflé's opening is more orange-forward. The citrus freshness quickly subsides. The classic Guerlinade twist of dry, powdery vanilla is present from the early stages, adding soft, warm sweetness. Clean jasmine rounds out the florals, marrying nicely with the vanilla.

It becomes more powdery as it develops, with the dusty vanilla giving a slight amber effect to the drydown. A hint of clean white musk blurs the edges nicely as it fades, with the restrained vanilla remaining until final fade. Sillage is intimate and longevity is moderate.

A nice modern update of a classic, Soufflé is a soft, sensual Shalimar flanker that is less sweet than Parfum Initial for example. It pays homage to its roots while catering to current tastes. Vanilla-focused Shalimar with the volume turned right down. 4/5.

Bouquet Bleu

Bland and boring, nothing in common with Shalimar at all. White flowers, screechy musk and vanilla, concentration seems similar to cologne.

Siv7Stars

Trying this again now it's wintry. Leather isn't listed but it's the first thing that hit me.. Feels like it's grown more teeth generally. Amazing what difference the weather makes.

Sapienta

This bears some resemblance with shalimar at its heart. I smell Cacharel Lou Lou blue, smoke vanilla and some citrus. To me it doesn't disappoint at all, love its damp club vibe somewhere deep into 20ct history.
Edit: I always seem to forget how complex Guerlain is. Art piece needs attention and time. This gem is incredible. So dark and moody...so dusty and damp in the most poetic sense.

lemmenkukka

Very lovely scent with a vanilla base. This is airy, vivacious, happy scent. Lingers beautifully, makes soft whiffs while walking around. A compliment getter and I get extra hugs and kisses from my hubby when wearing this. Some rememblance to Chanel Allure for women and a bit to Chanel Allure edition Blanche also, as it being more citruisy and this being more vanillic. Nothing in common with Shalimar scent, which is heavy and bold

Carissaochoa

A Shalimar skin scent on me. It is very airy, light, fresh and musky. Starts off fresh and aquatic and dries down to a beautiful whisper of a gentle white sweet musky skin scent. This is no beast like Shalimar if that is what you are hoping for. I think Soufflé makes it sound like it will be a tamed Shalimar with more gourmand touches. True, it is “airy” and “puffy”, however, I think if it was named Eau Fraiche or a Nue instead of Soufflé, it would convey the intent and performance of this perfume better. It sits very close to the skin and sweet wafts will come and go, but it is no projection monster.
I personally like it a lot and find it nice for work and this time of year. I live in the AZ desert and temps are still soaring above 110. It’s an easy reach for this time of year.

fonty_o

This is a citrus patchouli bomb. Nobody here is mentioning the patchouli, maybe because it isn't listed as a note, but it is the main player for sure. It's an earthy patchouli, which is my least favourite. Fortunately it doesn't dominate as much as it does in Angel or many of its flankers. I can smell maybe a touch of juniper too. I don't love this fragrance, heck, not even sure if I like it. Earthy perfumes aren't really my thing. I'm actually glad the longevity and projection are low in this case, because I can see this veering into a hippie, Woodstock fragrance.
I give this an OK. Not a like. Not a dislike. Somewhere in between.

Nora805

Growing up my mom cleaned houses to make extra money. I went with her once to a clients house and my life threatened if I moved from the spot she sat me in while she worked. From that spot I could see the lady of the house’s perfume collection. The Shalimar bottle stood out. Growing up I would sniff it the department store or in a magazine but just could never wear it myself. This flank is soft but still carries the mystique of the original.

Kotikina

I can understand why the lovers of the original Shalimar would be disappointed with this one and say it is 'defanged' Shalimar. Indeed, if Shalimar is a tiger, Shalimar Souffle is a kitten. I didn't get on with the original Shalimar - citruses were too screechy, dusted and dated, I didn't get any vanilla, only animalistic resins and incense, so I was pleasantly surprised by Souffle.
In my opinion, Thierry Wasser did a very good job modernising those citruses, which in general isn't my favourite note, but here they are pleasant. Still powdery (it is Guerlain, after all), but they are juicy and mouthwatering. I get a lot of lemons on a blotter, and finally, a nice not sweet vanilla on my skin. It is a dreamy fluffy lemon cake, yet in the drydown I recognise the subtle DNA of the original ancestor.

brokesta911

Guerlain Shalimar Souffle de Parfum (2014) - vanilla spirit - #thierrywasser creates a delicate take on #shalimar. Souffle isn’t the dessert, but translated as whiffs or puffs of air. Vanilla, Bergamot up top, Orange blossom and white musks. It has the signature classic smell, but lighter, less animalic, more airy with a stronger accord of vanilla.

FleurDe

My great grandma made the most perfect lemon meringue pie, then my mother made it, and now I make it. A hand -rolled butter crust, fresh juice and zest of lemon, ephemeral whipped egg-whites, only a hint of sweetness floating above the bright, zesty lemon aroma. I envision this pie displayed proudly alongside fragrant, fresh jasmine flowers grown in my great grandmother's famous South Oregon garden.

Now the daydream shifts and I'm at an intimate luncheon for sophisticated, cosmopolitan ladies. These ladies are not the temperamental, modern, working class, Irish immigrant ladies of my family. No, these ladies are the kind that you read about in Edith Wharton novels. Their corsets cinched, their padded derrieres perched precipitously on tiny cafe chairs. They are powdery, wealthy, influential, and judgmental. It's Summer, but they're not breaking a sweat. The room is cool and controlled; they can afford all the amenities that allow them to avoid the worst pains of Summer.

Another broad-chested matron arrives, her pert and smiling daughter trailing behind, all well-considered smiles and airy, Summery skirts. This daughter. This daughter is no rebel. This daughter knows the rules and has chosen to play by them. There will be no dangerous liasions with unsuitable men, no adoption of new and controversial ideas and causes, and certainly no useless education for her. She understands the rarefied beauty of the world she was born into, and intends to take her place in it without drama or personal revolution.

Our matrons are universally approving and delighted by her; perfectly charming, gentle, and pleasing. She offers just the kind of freshness and joie de vivre they crave and expect of a young lady of her breeding and status. They interview this new addition to their circle as they delicately nibble on petite lemon & vanilla powdered sugar teacakes. They apprise our young lady over soft explosions of powdered sugar puffing out from each cookie upon first bite. No discussion is necessary, our matrons instantly recognize our young lady as one of them; the essence of their hopes and dreams for their legacy in the next generation.

This fragrance is not me, nor any version of me I've ever been. I've never met a Summer fragrance that was. Still, for all that this fragrance does not feel like me, or any woman I know, I thoroughly enjoy her company on a hot Summer day. Our young lady is transported from another, more genteel time and place; an unlikely friend to accompany me in a scented Summer reverie.

Mariamaija Amélie

In the growing club of sweet perfumes, which all wish so desperately to be special while secretly copying each other (much like most human beings) Shalimar Souffle stands outside looking in and actually knows that it IS special, and therefore it will make sure YOU feel like you are special wearing it 🥰 The sensual, soft cloud af the most gorgeous and sophisticated version of vanilla mixed with a rounded - not sharp - citrus and with the DNA of the original Shalimar lingering just beneath make this scent S.T.U.N.N.I.N.G. The longevity is great and so is the mesmerizing sillage. Shalimar Souffle is so beautiful and unforgettable.

Lovaloo

I have revisited "Shalimar Souffle" a few times now. This release is perhaps more disheartening than I initially thought.

Souffle bears very little (if any?) resemblance to the original Shalimar. This is a completely defanged vanilla. The white florals in the opening have little dimension, no realism. Sterilized orange blossom and jasmine, the drydown has citruses that are diffused by clean textural musks alongside a lot of vanilla. A powdery lemon cookie juxtaposed with whiffs of... clean laundry particulate? As it progresses, the citruses depart, the vanilla becomes sweeter, more intensive, and it takes on a waxy quality. Another vanilla release that enters holiday candle territory. If you hate them as much as I do, beware.

It does not smell bad, it smells fine. But when did Guerlain begin to settle for fine?

Sadly there's no innovation, creativity, or sophistication here. Merely a dressed up vanilla. It's a simplistic release that is most likely made to cater to younger noses. A shame that this tepid little thing carries the Shalimar name and branding. Guerlain has a storied history with some truly legendary releases. Bold, innovative, distinctive fragrances... and this is what they sell in the department stores today?

If you're trying to get acquainted with Shalimar but desire a cleaner, less dense alternative, Philtre & Eau are the flankers to try. They both manage to relay the basic structure of Shalimar while smelling more approachable to the sensitive.

mermaidshimmer

I cannot stop sniffing my wrists when I wear this. When I spray this on my clothing it lasts for the better part of the day and my husband can smell it 4 feet away, when I walk by. It leaves a gentle scent trail. He says it smells like flowers.

The early stages of this perfume are white pith of lemon and orange blossoms. I enjoy those notes very much! They speak to me of springtime and dewy mornings.

When the scent dries down, it becomes a familiar, powdery musk--something that reminds me of childhood. I suspect that is the "breath" of Shalimar that is just the hint of the original (nothing pungent though). Women around me wore Shalimar when I was growing up, but this is totally different--it is a twist with the citrus and delicate white florals that morphs into soft vanilla musk. Very cozy and comforting!

I will definitely pick up a larger bottle as I own the 1.6oz. I blind bought it and wasn't sure how much I would like it. Turns out that I love it!!

shannfernando

From a performance standpoint, this is the worst. Doesn’t last long, projects mildly. But let me put this out there. It is not a gourmand scent by any means.

The vanilla here is dry, earthy and realistic. The smell you get when you scrape a vanilla pod, as opposed to the creamy baked good type of vanilla extract smell.

It’s citrusy facets (predominantly lemon) endures throughout the wear time (which is max an hour!)

I low-key regret getting this. It stays true to the name though. A breath of Shalimar, last as long as a breath too!

Would’ve loved this if it lasted longer coz I love the scent profile. No, I adore the scent profile. It just doesn’t last long enough to even appreciate the changing phases of it…

EDIT: It has been 4 months since I purchased this! Hold on to your seats, as this one needs to macerate! After it sat in my declutter pile for about two weeks, I gave it another go. Now, it is soft, powdery and beeeeautiful vanilla with lemon! Still not gourmand, but the longevity has improved so very much! So has the projection!! It lasts about 8 hours on my skin when it is not moisturised and way longer (haven't kept track after I lost count after about 9.5 hours) when I do apply moisturiser!) I cannot believe I almost got rid of this! It is STUNNING! I am eyeing the Intense version :p

Q80

This version is more on the citrus, & orange blossom side. It has vanilla but the sambac is more visible here with more bergamot, and mandarin.

This one is fair but i prefer the "Philtre de Parfum" version over this one. Nice.

Holliebobollie

I blind bought this on a discount. I love it!! Like a warm lemon vanilla cookie. So soft and dreamy. I like the idea of Shalimar but I find the patchouli and animalic dry down doesn’t work for me. Especially because I live in a hot climate. So happy with this purchase!

Nettie108

True story. I was at an airport security check, showing my license to a TSA agent. He looked at my ticket and remarked that I could have gotten on the PreCheck line (I hadn't bothered as the line was not long). As he was telling me this his eyes widened and he exclaimed: "What perfume are you wearing!" (We were both masked, btw). "Shalimar Souffle." He then comes out from behind his booth, walks me over to the PreCheck line—which was totally unnecessary, as the airport was pretty empty—but it gave him the chance to ask me several times to spell the name; find out where to get it; etc., saying he wanted it for his wife. This is the second time I was stopped with a "what are you wearing" comment on this perfume. I concur with other readers that this is not recognizably Shalimar, but it is recognizably delicious.

Ms.Olive

Fresh sparkling on the opening which I love, but then it turns just plain on my skin, such a shame tho, love the bottle but can't love the juice unfortunately.

jbsherry

This was a blind buy for me and I’m very glad I took the risk. The opening had me nervous, as it’s sharp citrus with lemon and bergamot that borders on overwhelming. Luckily, this doesn’t last long. The vanilla and jasmine sambac really shine through the development and dry down.
Although not a gourmand, I find it to be slightly sweet, but done in a sophisticated way.

Comforting, airy, feminine, and elegant. While this is a more mature fragrance imo, I don’t find it be “old lady” or dusty whatsoever. That said, I don’t see teenagers being drawn to this. For reference, I am 28.
The musk is subtle to me and not overpowering. Overall this is a win. The performance is solid and lasts on skin for a good while (7+ hours), I even smelled it slightly on my wrists after a shower.

At the dry down it is a lovely, slightly powdery, vanilla skin scent. I get some faint caramel as well. I will note that the citrus notes are much more apparent on clothes and I don’t get the vanilla, so it’s not a love for me on clothes. Perhaps it’s skin chemistry that brings out the vanilla. It is a beautiful and classy scent that is distinctly Guerlain.

Update:
I enjoy this so much. It took a few days to fully appreciate it. I even enjoy the opening now and don’t find it to be sharp, but invigorating.
I find it to be a truly lovely, lemony, vanilla concoction that I reach for frequently.

TabledThoughts

Pillowy soft, double vanillic, citrus/jasmin concoction.
Drydown produces an intimate, close to the skin lemony musk.
Shalimar re-imagined.
No leather or civet or powder here.
No tutti frutti girly frag.
This is for grown-ups.
Elegant bottle.
Unique and endearing.
Guerlain Quality.

weirdhoney21

This is a lemon blueberry cupcake that settles into a powdery vanilla musk. I adored the opening but the dry down leans a little too mature and musky for my taste. Still a lovely fragrance that would make a great signature scent!

7/10

Perfumeaddict777

I find Shalimar souffle absolutely beautiful! There's something so addictive about it to me just like perfume initial has that addictive Gourmand but sexy feel to it. This is creamy , sweet and fluffy but still smells expensive with a little bit of white musk in the background. The vanilla is so gorgeous Just like all Guerlains vanillas! I can wear this in the middle of winter in the spring in the summer in the fall it works in all seasons. I do get a little orange blossom but its mostly a cake scent on my skin with white musk . It smells completely different from Shalimar also different from Shalimar Perfume initial . Sillage is perfect and longevity laugh 8 hours on skin and about 12 to 13 hours on clothes.

Green.colver

Long lasting lemony cake type of smell. But somehow not gourmand. I find it hard to wear, I don't tend to reach for this bottle. I don't find IT suitable for winter but neather for spring/summer. It's a difficult one

A_Ferrera

Incredibly whimsical, something that Galadriel or the White Queen in Alice in wonderland would smell like! So melancholic...

It's possesses a fluffy and airy quality to it whilst maintaining a cold, distant and an aloof stance. Definitely unique to what is currently on the market and in my humble opinion 100x times better than anything that the new L'ART & LA MATIÈRE collection has to offer in terms of quality and versatility.

The citrus in this isn't sparkling but muted and fleeting making way for the jasmine and orange blossom which isn't grapey but quite delicate, soon the powdery vanilla appears intertwined with the white musk which is incredibly elevating.

Longevity is okay, it's quite strong in the beginning (a little soapy) and its sillage is quite vast depending on the room you're in but that all dials down and it becomes a musky, powdery, vanilla, that sits close to the skin which think suits it quite well since its named 'Souffle' meaning breath. 20 or so minutes after the initial spray I can smell this dewiness like that of rain on a spring day or after a thunderstorm (on skin), this is truly sublime 😫

I must say, in the opening it bares a similarity to Coco Noir and I think that's thanks to the bergamot however both have this cold/emotionless and somewhat stoic overtone to them that I adore and search for in a fragrance.

Though noting like the original Shalimar or Shalimar Millésime Vanilla Planifolia so it can stand alone, it doesn't need to grab anyones attention as the magic lies in subtlety asserting itself whilst you move about. I love to wear this during the midsummer, spring and early autumn whilst I water my garden during golden hour and the wind is gently pushing up against my body blowing wafts of this up into the air, it's truly magical and effervescent.

Can't say enough good things about it, definitely a love and I don't think you'd come across a lot of people wearing this so it's safe to say you'd be one of a kind. I wore this in Hong Kong in early 2016 and it reminds me of the misty clouds billowing down from Victoria Peak.

Aside from its sister flankers this is 100% unique, there is truly nothing else out there that has the same effect let alone scent wise. I have an old soul so this speaks to me and it connects with me. Thierry Wasser truly worked his magic on this as creating something so unique with a number of facets without it being gaudy is hard to accomplish, literally a master at his craft.

Poudery

I love this version of Shalimar - the original scent is there, a lighter version with a more candied sweetness. Underlying it are the fresh citrusy notes, while the florals melt together perfectly with the vanilla and the comparably light musk blends everything together.

I surround myself in a cloud of this, when I have a rough day or spritz it on lightly, when meeting people for work or friends and family.
This is a fragrance that works in all kinds of weather for me.

jda59

This is a light and airy scent that I choose over the heavy original Shalimar, when I bought it in the shop for me wife. Because it is a not heavy, it can be worn perfectly in the office, and it will get you a lot of compliments there. Actually, it is a real masterpiece from Thierry Wasser.

menmen

I though I would like it more than I do. Smells a little bit like dust to me sadly. It's fresh in a cold kind of way.i don't think it's a safe blind buy

MissIvy

I blind bought this online, along with a boatload of other fragrances. (As we do.) I had smelled the original Shalimar 15-20 years ago when I was just a teenager and thought it repugnant. Since then, I would like to think my nose has developed a I now have a sense for much better quality, sophisticated and unique scents. I am fairly certain that my favorite was Prada Candy and something from Paris Hilton back then. Yikes!
So anyway, upon first spritz of Shalimar Souffle I thought I had died and gone to lemon cake heaven. It was ripe juicy lemons dripping with creamy vanilla icing. Sadly, the opening is very short lived. It lasted two maybe three mins tops. Now it has settled into a rather lovely powdery vanilla and benzoin. Dancing around that are some subtle white florals, but those vanillas are the most predominant and the real stars of the show here. And of course then there it is. A ever so slight "souffle" of the original Shalimar! Amazing, the name couldn't be more appropriate. There really is but a "breath" of Shalimar. Turning what would be a nice but fairly basic vanilla into something quite special and unique.
I see this being a great scent to wear on a brunch date, shopping, to a job interview, or to the office. It is what I like to call a "you, yourself and I" fragrance. Decent lasting power, but not much in the way of projection or silliage. Best suited for spring imo, but could be worn year around.
All and all I think it is a beautiful perfume, in a beautiful vintagy thick blue glass bottle and i believe that i would, in fact repurchase if i ran out. A very very strong like. And if you like vanilla scents then I believe it would be a safe blind buy too.
EDIT: So after some days sitting with this one, I have come to the realization that Shalimar Souffle is the definition of a actual true skin scent. Oh sure you get the lovely lemon and vanilla at the top, but it very quickly settles into what in my opinion smells like the clean, ever so slightly sweet, healthy scent of the skin of someone who takes extremely good care of themselves, both inside and out. Strange indeed, but if you know, you know. I know, and I love it.

Compositeur

This is not the first time a ‘lighter’ version of Shalimar has been attempted. If memory serves this was first done in early 2000s, unless if there was an even earlier one, which I am not aware of. The difference with this version is that it seems to be an exercise in deconstruction, i.e. let’s isolate certain parts from the original and see what happens. In an ideal universe this would have been complemented with the remaining parts forming a second perfume: wouldn’t it be great if one could combine this with, say, Shalimar EDT and get something extraordinary?

The main problem with this one is the addition of White Musk. This is one sharp player, and an unrelenting one at that. In this case, the musk overtakes everything and just stays sharp throughout (and even turns sour at one point). Not good. I am inclined to think that it's not just musk, but this so-called white musk must contain a lot of Ambroxan.

Ruby Galore

The name describes it perfectly. This is a light citrus, vanilla, white floral, musky-powdery perfume, without sweetness, plus the BREATH (souffle) of the original Shalimar(a bit of orientality). But only a breath, not even a deep breath. I don’t compare him to Shalimar. I have it and I love wearing it.

klrobe002

Smells like cuddles with a new baby. Smells like love, baby powder, quiet time and memory making. Like old furniture and fruit bowls. Like the musty dusty pantry at dawn in an old colonial house. More grounded than the souffle intense version, not as heavy as the original shalimar.

Siv7Stars

I've had the original Shalimar, Parfum Initial, the Eau de Shalimar in the white box & now this one, bought in a sale from official Guerlain counter, partly because the box is cute with tiny elephants & birds. Wishing I hadn't bothered. I know souffle means breath but this is ridiculous. Got my son to test as well with his fresh young nose (I didn't tell him anything, just asked what he thought the differences were between the smells) & I quote, "There is no difference really, just one is a lot fainter." My sentiments exactly. It's like a watered down copy or something. I'm mystified by the reviews this is v strong, or a room filler. At the same time, on me the orange blossom is turned all the way up to eleven (a really quiet barely perceptible eleven, hope you understand) precisely the note I didn't want amplified. Where are my extra dose of vanillas? I'm wondering if the Intense version would be worth trying for more vanilla or if the orange blossom will be even worse.

MrAbbas

Better flanker to my nose than the original Shalimar and more wearable in our days. This smells more modern and somehow fresher. The packaging is iconic and has a nice performance. A like from me.

Murmur123123

A much easier to wear Shalimar flanker to the original. It still retains the signature Shalimar DNA, but with a much more prominent citrus note throughout. A very elegant choice for day time scent for Spring to Autumn. I also love the Souffle Intense which is sweeter and stronger in vanilla and that is a good choice for winter. Still, you need to like the Shalimar line in order to appreciate this beauty.

EDIT: 4 May 2022: I have to say that the more I use Souffle and Shalimar EDP and EDT, the further removed I find Souffle from the Shalimar DNA...on my skin the citrus notes of Souffle are very dominant, and I dont pick up much vanilla from the Shalimar DNA. The iris powderiness in Souffle is very prominent too.

IzzyFoxy

Amazing. This perfume has beautiful aura that fills up the room when I just open the bottle. My clothes smells for weeks but the scent itself is not too heavy on my skin. It radiates.

LadyIva

I love the original Shalimar and its 'yellow' flankers; I find their combination of lemon, vanilla, incense and leather absolutely irresistible. However, the 'blue' collection Shalimar Souffle is not my thing. The main culprit is orange blossom, which is present in copious amounts and gobbles up the other notes, like a giant black hole. Hence the Souffle ends up not smelling like Shalimar at all. Btw I can't explain why I love citric notes (lemon, lime, bergamot, orange, grapefruit and tangerine), but simply cannot stand neroli, petitgrain, orange blossom... I guess those are too piercing and barbershop-like for me.

RainbowGirl

Oh, Shalimar, my journey with you began with Coco EDP.

I never tested this fragrance. I steered clear of anything with civet in it, after one reviewer likened it to "animal pee." That did not sound like something I wanted to smell like! However, I have been slowly testing (and enjoying) fragrances that were originally outside of my comfort zone. So, Shalimar was on my mind. You know what they say, curiosity killed the cat pee...

I saw the Chanel testers at Macy's and decided, now is the time to find out what civet smells like! I asked them to spray Coco EDP on a card. I am still unsure what civet smells like, but on a card, this fragrance was beautiful. Powdery, fancy... just lovely! The card in my purse, distracted me the whole drive home, and I knew... someday I will own a bottle of Coco Chanel.

But not that day, because I could not afford the bottle. But, what I could afford, was a small bottle of Shalimar. I also ordered a 1.6 oz bottle of this Shalimar Souffle... knowing this was the supposedly "tame" Shalimar.

Meanwhile, as I waited for these two bottles to arrive, a Fragrantica reviewer did a review on the Shalimar Souffle L'Oranger. So I read all the reviews, did an internet search...and found a bottle! I ordered that one today. So... three bottles of Shalimar in, I realize... I should have just bought the Coco. Haha.

But where's the fun in that?

Today, Shalimar Souffle arrived. I was so excited to try my first Shalimar! It is... lovely. A beautiful lemon, light floral, and vanilla fragrance, nose to skin, but the projection... is sharper. I do not smell the vanilla in the scent aura around me, just a sharp floral lemon. Not sour...just sharp. I have not smelled a lemon like it.

Oddly enough, at first sniff, this fragrance reminded me of Coco Madamoselle. It has that same classy clean smell. Only Shalimar Souffle is lemony, whereas Coco Madamoselle is orangy.

So far, projection is great. I sprayed two sprays on my arm, and I can smell a fresh sharp classy clean lemon scent all around me. I would not use more than two sprays of this... or it could head into cleaner territory.

It also seems to be lasting okay. It's been two hours since I sprayed this on my skin, and it's going strong.

Nose to skin, it is starting to get a little musky, and starting to smell like a sweet lemon dessert, but the projection is still that sharp clean lemon. Not unpleasant... just unusual.

I am surprised. I thought this would be the tame Shalimar, but I would not consider this a safe blind buy. I also think this is perfectly unisex.

As I typed this review, my Shalimar EDP arrived, but this fragrance is still going STRONG, so I guess I'll have to wait a little longer to find out what Shalimar EDP, (and civet) smells like.

Fun!

Edited to add: Super disappointed. My Shalimar D'Oranger arrived today, and it was just a bottle of Shalimar EDP. Had to return it. Sad face.

Ruby Galore

People like me, who are laymen in the world of perfume, don’t expect vanilla here that is similar to for example vanilla in a cake, or lemon that is similar to lemon in lemonade. This is all musky, powdery, without sweetness, the closest description to me would be the smell of a woman's face wearing expensive powder and expensive lipstick, this type of scent, almost odorless, but smells like expensive and elegant breath.
I bought it blindly, I am 39 years old so it is beautiful to me. If I had bought it 10 years ago, I would have cried: D

Ruby Galore

If a perfume is called Shalimar’s Breath, why some repeat, it’s not Shalimar.
It’s as if someone is telling you: come on, I’ll show you the tracks of a tiger in the snow !, and you say it’s not a tiger.
It's not a tiger, the tiger is in the woods, it's just his tracks.

But they are beautiful !! ;)

Mokingbirdzz

I blind bought this and just received it today. Realized that the sillage smells better than sniffing it directly on my skin. Its a very gentle and delicate lemon vanilla scent to me. Like a very soft spoken, sophisticated and pretty girl in a blue floral summer mini dress kind of vibe. I would wear this for a casual chill day out but it won't be one of my favourites. A 'Like' rather than 'Love' for this frag.

pinktojen

I definitely had my doubts because the original was so terrible on me. This is fresh with a bit of warmth from the vanilla. I don’t remember the last time I reapplied any fragrance so frequently. Not a sharp citrus. Soft citrus. Soft marshmallowy floral. Then a warm musky vanilla. I definitely am loving it and considering a back up bottle because this bottle is not going to last.

scentous

Lots of citrus and musk with vanilla and jasmine on the background. Definitely not sweet or cloying even could be called a fresh scent. Even a man can easily wear it. Too musky for me, will pass.

silverma

For me, the very first spray was like a gourmand-like sun tan lotion. Faintly smelled something like spice in the background...so I gave it a few more sprays and it mostly smelled like a soft creamy lemon dessert with light vanilla... Reminded me of those lemon sandwich cookies with the cream filling in the middle, or something similar. The lemon is a light soft citrus and blends very well with the other notes and a little musky, which is different. Enjoy the scent, but found myself not reaching for it to wear. I think it's because I smelled a slight antique essence to it in the background. Never had any perfume like this before! I'd recommend it to anyone who likes a heavy lemon and musky vanilla in their perfume.

brokesta911

Guerlain Shalimar Souffle de Parfum (2014) - vanilla spirit - @thierrywasser creates a delicate take on #shalimar. Souffle isn’t the dessert, but translated as whiffs or puffs of air. Vanilla, Bergamot up top, Orange blossom and white musks. It has the signature classic smell, but lighter, less animalic, more airy with a stronger accord of vanilla.

DearDalya

It smells like it looks. Vintage,dark with a twist. More citrusy than sweet, the balance is very good. I think you can wear it in all the seasons. I dont regret buying it ! It s different ! I see it as unisex perfume beacause it's very musky!

Salalome

Souffle (the e is silent-ish more like ö) means breath.
Soufflé (the é is saied like the e in education but long) means the pastery.
This is NOT ment to be a gourmand and it never was nor should it be. Its not ment to smell like lemon cake, tart, meringue or what ever ppl seem to expect, its a fresh breath of clean lemon, softend by vanilla with an ever so slight floral wisper.
Lots of leomon fragrances are sharp or harsh, this is not at all! Its the perfect non gourmand lemon scent that never ever ventures in to cleaning products like SO MANY OTHERS! Is it totaly extrodinary, crazy special or super, duper exciting?
No, its beautyfull, inofencive and masterfully crafted and it should be apriciated for that and it clearly is. I know of no other lemon scent like it.

Brooke1988

This is a beauty! The lemon here is less citrus and more gourmand - something I find incredibly delicious, comforting, and somehow nostalgic. On my skin, I get a gorgeous spicy, warm vanilla wrapped in a sugary lemon pastry cloud. It is rich yet fluffy and airy; gourmand, but not cloyingly so. This is "signature scent" worthy and totally unique to my collection.

If you are curious about how it compares to the Intense version, here is my take: I think Shalimar Souffle Intense is aptly named - to me, this is a deeper, richer version of the original. I pick up more of that spicy vanilla note in the Intense, and less of the light and airy lemon which is present in the original. While I really enjoy both, if I was pressed to choose one, I think I would go for the original simply because I am more drawn to that delicious fluffy lemon note. You really can't go wrong with either of these, in my opinion! I am eager to try layering the original and intense versions. I think that might just be the perfect combination. :)

lmwimsatt

Ugh. Dont care for this at all, which isnt surprising because I also cant stomach the original for long periods. This I just cant do at all. Not a good blind buy.

Freckleface

This is meditation, calm, mindfullness, peace in a bottle!
Fresh uplifting touch of blueberry and ocean with clean citrus and sweet vanilla.
Not heavy at all, it Just uplifts you and give you the freshest clean, sweet, deep fruity magical vibe you want to live in!

Roses1357

This is much easier to wear than Shalimar Eau de Parfum, in my opinion (blind bought both). This is lighter, and on me has a nice sweet vanilla in the dry down, but still holds that Shalimar vibe. I prefer this version.

carlahoffman

I absolutely love this perfume oh my what a find I now own. It smells so lovely quite pretty with notes that make it intoxicating to your senses. On me a light Bergamot and lemon opening, my flanker didn't have a bright fruity opening more of a musky bright/intense, vanilla scent.

Not a sweet vanilla like ice cream or a candy scent but a unique, inviting vanilla from blending the Tahitian and Indian Vanilla with a musky base. In the heart I did get a small floral scent but it was like the opening nice, there but short lived the strongest being the orange blossom.

The projection is very nice I can smell it but its not annoying to others around me just the opposite they ask me what is that lovely scent. It lasted on me for the entire day , with a extra spray. It is working good in this cold weather and betting it will be nice when it gets warm for the scent can be so gentle at times. Just lovely!!!!

Just a gentle reminder that “souffle” and “soufflé” are not the same word in French. They both come from the verb “souffler” which means “to blow, breathe out, exhale, sigh”. “Souffle” (pronounced SOO-FLUH) means “breath” or “puff” and is part of the name of this lovely perfume. “Soufflé” (pronounced SOO-FLAY) is a kind of delicate dessert that has been inflated through the expansion of heated air that has been “breathed” into it. This perfume is not named after the dessert (in which case its name would translate to “puff pastry of light” which would be rather silly). Rather, we might translate the name as “Breath of Light” or perhaps “Luminous Sigh.” Just think of Godard’s “À bout de souffle” whose English title is “Breathless” (literally “at the end of one’s breath”).

Palmer Eldritch

Now THIS is the PERFECT corporate-office fragrance for mature professionals. 'Shalimar Souffle' is NOT inappropriately seductive but classy in a modern way that's incredibly suitable for the business environment.
This is not a sweet or gourmand scent...You won't be suffocating others with it!

Lovely, intensely-zesty citrus opening but quickly dries down to a musky non-sweet vanilla. The vanilla in this is the weakest note on my skin, with soft spices and musk strongest followed by the citrus.
This is very unisex on my skin...Not leaning too feminine. No cakes here. (for cakes check out Lira by Xerjoff)
I agree with other reviewers that say 'Shalimar Souffle' could have been easily marketed to men.

Verdict: Extremely easy blind buy for both men and women looking for a perfume that's clean, musky, citrusy with a dash of spice and unsweetened vanilla extract. Perfectly suited for the office.
Sophisticated & airy like a breath of light! (changed, happy now jae? lol)

violet violin

I have to admit, every single day I have to stop myself for always reaching for Shalimar Souflee. I’m a little obsessed!

I purchased this as a blind buy, because of all the descriptions as lemon vanilla cake or cookies, but I really paid close attention to those reviewers who pointed out that yes-it’s like a lemon vanilla cake, but without a lot of sugar. There is a review below by India Oceane which really spoke to me and I think it’s a spot on description of what you can envision with this scent.
I LOVE lemon and vanilla, but despise when it’s too sweet. I like boozy vanillas and tart lemon. Think of a glass of bourbon with a vanilla bean in it and a twist of lemon. That’s my thing! I was not taken by surprise fortunately by how unsweetened this fragrance really is and quite pleasantly surprised by how much I love it! I do really understand though how people are mixing up soufflé and souffle because of the similarities of the word and the dessert being an “airy” sort of confection.

I do get a lot of lemon right at the top with this. As it dries down I start getting some vanilla and the mandarin. After a bit more time, now I am getting even more of the vanilla but now the mandarin is settling into a beautiful orange blossom. Almost the perfect orange blossom scent that is very elusive to me. In the far dry down a lot of the lemon and citrus fades and you are left with the musk, vanilla and jasmine. It’s begins to get a bit powdery, but to me it’s almost like a cosmetic powder (which I love) and definitely not a talcum powder or baby powder. The sillage on this is impressive, but not a knockout. Longevity is great, I can still smell this on me (mostly vanilla by the end) almost 12 hours later snd still on my clothes the next day. But despite the citrus notes, and the strongish longevity and sillage, this is still so airy, so classy and so beautifully soft.

ETA 4/4/2021: wore this today, Easter Sunday, which was a cool but sunny early spring day. This scent was absolutely perfect in this weather. The cool breeze carried the fresh/floral lemon scent and the bright sun warmed the skin and brought forward the vanilla and orange blossom. I’m am officially obsessed!

Kuldeep S

Vanilla is mostly present in mid notes. Dry down is musky so it resembles slightly to boucheron pour homme in dry down.

soumikmal

I was looking through some papers when I found my bottle of the Souffle de Parfum (Breath of Perfume, not the dessert Soufflé) stashed away underneath a cupboard drawer.

This is an airy, gently burnished lemony-musky-vanilla, if Shalimar was the intoxicating scent of woman's skin, Souffle de Parfum is the aura that surrounds her, transcending the complexities of the yesteryears, leaving her bare and naked...

cathrinejohanne91

Ah! This is my current scent obsession! This is such a beautiful scent. It’s like a sweet lemon and vanilla cake, not too sweet and not too lemony. It’s just a perfect balance. It opens up strong and after about 2-3 minutes it has settled down to the perfect scent ever. But the longevity is bad, on me it doesn’t last long at all, about 2-3 hours and then it becomes a skin scent. Maybe the intense version is better? I’ll have to try that one out for sure! I’ll give this a 9/10 🍋🍰

Nanis224

I don’t get the lemon cake or vanilla people mention. It has a citrusy opening, but very vintagey with harsh dusty drydown, I was expecting something more rounded.

XXYZZYX

I wanted to love Shalimar Souffle SO SO SO BAD. I tested the original Shalimar EDT, thought it was alright, on my skin, and thought this one would be IT for me. Alas, that's not the case.

Shalimar Souffle has a REALLY NICE lemony vanilla opening that everyone loves, but unfortunately, it dries down to just a plain, regular jasmine fragrance on my skin with not much dimension. There’s a tad bit of warmth there, probably from the vanilla, but my skin amplifies anything jasmine like crazy, so this is not FB worthy for me, dawg.

I was really hoping this would be the lemon vanilla fragrance of my dreams :’(

scentofbuket

Smells exactly like Lancome Hypnose's little flirty sister. Love it!

India Oceane

Worn by a person who gives excellent advice and can express their opinions well. A small crystal vase of orange flowers sits on a well-cared for antique mahogany table. A slice of lemon tea cake with vanilla frosting is served on a porcelain plate to be eaten with a sterling fork. Polished, elegant, and grown-up, regardless of age. Lovely, but can be a bit over-powering with their opinions, so you have to in the mood for the visit.

zgeco

I tested this scent on paper at the beginning of last December, and thought this is the most elegant scent I smelled-indeed the only scent lives up to my beloved Allure. I detected the Allure vibe right away. Lemony vanilla softened with gorgeous white flowers. Pure elegance, I made the wish of buying this classy scent one day.

Two weeks later all parfumes got a good sale; I went ahead and bought a bottle on the last week of December:). Then I could test the scent on my skin.

My initial reaction was a bit disappointing because I felt that the scent is lemony on paper but vanillish on my skin. For some reason I was attracted to the soft lemon smell when I first sniffed this scent; felt “fooled” by my skin chemisty. I experimented with the scent. I mixed it with L occitane Lemon Verbana deodorant and also with the citrus fruits peel oil of Tisserand ( both mixtures are blends of high quality brands and my Shalimar). I could get the level of lemon smell that satisfied me. I was so disappointed that I even considered selling my bottle, thinking that Souffle is not my scent.

I am glad that I did not do so. I wore it everyday for a month, learned Shalimar Souffle, and came to realize that the amount of lemon is just right. It is the creation of M. Thierry Wasser of Guerlain after all:) This is very elegant, classy scent. Soft and lovely but expensive- one of the most expensive on the mainstream (excluding niche brands). I do not know the original Shalimar because we dont have in my country. I will test it as soon as I can travel abroad.

As I mentioned Shalimar Souffle is on par with Allure, Shalimar is lemon vanilla, Allure EDP is peach-tangerine vanilla. I truly love both of them. As others I thought Souffle refers to desert, but later learned it means breath in French, not desert:). However one can still view this Shalimar flanker as a desert of a very high level Chef, very expensive desert. I actually learned to prepare Lemon Curd after getting my Souffle:). I am into lemon nowadays.

I am very glad that I have this beauty in my collection, I recommend that you give a try.

Now I look forward to testing the new Shalimar flanker, the one with the lavender note.

Edit March 22: I was wrong on mixing it with citrus to make it sharper. I wore this scent, and in the course of time I fell in love again and again. Wonderful smell:)

NicoleDiver

This is my absolute favourite scent. A successful lifting of the original Shalimar - cosy and intimate, yet fresh and sharp. It's a scent that I would wear for work - it smells elegantly and expensively, but is not inviting in a way that suggests an informal setting such as a date or a house party. I would definitely choose it for a professional meeting or a business negotiation - it creates an air of formality and commands a certain degree of respect. A true treasure in my collection.

enchantedwinter

After getting recommendations for this perfume, I remembered I had a sample of it and tried it out. I solidly enjoyed Shalimar Souffle de Parfum.

It's an extremely classy smell. It immediately brought me back to my memories visiting old buildings and quiet villages in France. Something about it smelled of wooden furniture preserved for hundreds of years, and rain on cobblestone streets.

The lemon and bergamot aren't loud cleaning-solution citruses here, they're subdued and bitter (the bergamot is so much like Earl Grey tea--that beautifully melancholy smell). The vanilla has the same DNA as in the original Shalimar: deep and incense-y.

Shalimar Souffle de Parfum could definitely be unisex, although I feel like it doesn't actually smell "unisex"--I think it would smell either distinctly feminine or distinctly masculine depending on who's wearing it and how they want it to come across.

Again, it's very elegant and cultured-smelling. If you've seen Gossip Girl, I imagine someone like Lily Van Der Woodsen wearing this. The only reason why I'm not sure I'm ready to buy a full bottle yet is because I'm a college student and I don't think I could do it justice. Maybe when my lifestyle involves more European vacations, classic literature, and visits to art museums!

Miss koku

İlk yarım saat Shalimar DNA sı alıyorum.Narenciyeler hafif tozlu hafif dumanlı. yaz ve ilkbahar için günlük modern bı Shalimar bu.Orta kısımları limonlu puding veya kremalı limonata gibi hafif limonlu gurme.Kurumaya doğru sade güzel bir vanilya kalıyor.ilk 2 saat yayılımı bir kol mesafesi de,tenimde 13 saat civarı kaldı

octoberinohio

One of my favorite examples that a sweet "women's" perfume will read masculine if nobody knows who it's technically branded for. It has too much of a white musk note on first spray that can give me a headache, but it dries down quickly to a clean, soapy lemon pastry. That just means I can't spray it on clothes and only on my skin, where it dries down quickly and lastingly to the desired effect.

Gianfranco65

Very nice and comforting version of Shalimar.

Villo5

I love this. Soft, feminine citrusy vanilla.

LawmaLlama

Like I'm chewing on a really unpleasant, old bar of soap, the kind that cuts through grease. It is super heavy and mixed with powder. I've tried to love it, but have to wash it off after an hour because it is so awful. I only get the tiniest bit of citrus in the first spray, but it is not fresh, clean, or airy, and certainly does not smell like lemon cookies.

Super disappointed because I bought it recently in the stunning limited edition peacock bottle. Posted my review here since it is the same juice.

fyetan

Light, airy, lemon meringue dessert which turned into a skin scent within five minutes. Very unfortunate since it's so delicious.

*Edit: an hour in, it's morphed into a vanilla-incense skin scent. No more lemon. Reminiscent of the original Shalimar, but with more spice.

Daria_21

Since being at home more than ever with COVID, I have been wearing the crap out of my various perfumes. Today I reached for Souffle, and once again asked myself why I don't wear this more often.

Soft citrus vanilla whimsy; airy, sugary but not ever in a sweet way (can't describe it). It's like lemon fairy floss with the tooth bending sweetness taken out.

Easy to wear, easy to love, potent projection and lasts forever on clothing and skin.

Yum.

TexasOrangeBlossom

Shalimar Souffle was the first Shalimar in my collection. I had tested Shalimar EDP at the department store, but found it to be too challenging and quickly scrubbed it. Hearing that Souffle wasn’t similar to the OG I figured I’d give it a go (baby steps), but of course that meant I had to blind buy. I do in fact love it, but I love the Intense version a bit more. I won’t say much about Souffle smell, sillage, and longevity because there are so many varied reviews and I have already reviewed it before. You just really need to try it for yourself.
Here’s where this review might be unique. I recently decided to take a chance on Shalimar EDT. From first spray I was reminded of Shalimar Souffle! They are not the same by any means, but I smell a common DNA. I now completely dismiss all the reviews that dismiss Shalimar Souffle as a member of the Shalimar line. It’s a true flanker in my eyes. So, if you are like me and need to take baby steps in order to appreciate Shalimar, I recommend starting with Souffle knowing that it is a flanker with a bit of the OG artfully woven inside it.

Frag_Freshie

Someone please PM me what i can layer it with to make it more wearable.Thanks.☺️

sarah kind

On me both the sillage and the longevity are really good. And Initial hardly lasts a couple of hours on me! Just goes to show what a difference body chemistry makes.

JacquieDS

Is this similar to the Intense?

jule9

It just arrived. I had good feelings about it from the beginning. It is an instant love. It's so delicate and inviting. Smart without being over the top, warm without being cloying. I can't stop sniffing myself. The gourmand notes are there, but this doesn't smell just like any ordinary lemon cake. No, it smells like an elegant female mage conjured a sophisticated and slightly unearthly lemon cake :) Wearing it I feel like a rich woman, both materially and spiritually. This one is a keeper.

Notes are: vanilla, nostalgia, poshness
Sillage is light but sufficient. Lasting power - it vanishes too fast :( but when it lasts it's beautiful.

nero77

A cold beauty dancing between coolness and warmth...

Having tried a few variations of Shalimar, I can say that this is quite similar to Shalimar Parfum Initial L'Eau. I find a cool Iris and Bergamot combination which is cool and detached, yet elegant and floral. I think it has a slight powdery warmth underneath the cool Iris and Bergamot. I do like the way it remains elegant throughout. It reminds me of an Ice Queen or Ice Princess from a fairytale, in an Ice Palace where perfect ice crystals reflect the brilliant winter light.

The other aspect I like about this is that it's floral and fresh, but very elegant and refined. Ironically, whereas the original Shalimar was tropical, this feels more temperate in nature. I can see this working with evening wear and more formal outfits. I can see this on well-groomed people. It has a cold beauty about it which keeps you interested to see which direction it will go, and whether a wave of warm Vanilla will come to melt the icy Iris and Bergamot, but sadly the fragrance remains linear in fashion, with just lingering whiff of powder left by the end. Still, I think this would be a great choice for people who don't want the extrovert nature of a vanillic Shalimar and want something more cool and detached.

golden.signorina

So feminine very nice elegant smell..

More modern than the original one which is Absolutely I don't prefer it's horrible to my taste.
More suitable for hot climate..

AMMILLER

A beautiful, classy fragrance, Shalimar de Souffle does not smell like a typical citrus of today. It opens with a smooth lemon, like limoncello or lemon cookie. The opening lemon is actually present for the duration of the scent, although subdued. Vanilla is the star here, it isn't a sweet vanilla, its intense, almost floral. On my skin I can smell layers of scent, lemon, white florals, a hint of musk, all tied with a silk cream colored ribbon of deep vanilla. This is a fragrance for a power lunch with the boss, the black tie museum event, a trip to the opera or theater. Its a classy scent that maybe too strong for everyday wear and too distracting to be a "sexy" scent. Shalimar de Souffle would be a very unique signature scent. Sprayed in large quantities, it takes on a almost rootbeer like feeling. The sillage isn't huge, some on close by can smell it but you won't be killing anyone. The longevity is excellent and I could smell it on my skin for 8 hours.

Scent 10/10, Sillage 6/10, Longevity 8/10 Overall 9/10.

jero

I love Shalimar, it could be said I worship Shalimar than love, it's kind of religious something. like when I said I love No5 it's actually I adimre the status No5 achieved.

and neither this nor that do I love their ultimate drydown, S is always vanilla hiding behind 7 veils and 5 is forever a plain dusted flower, and Shalimar of now or No5 are both not long-lasting scents.

Shalimar Souffle de Parfum is like capture the bright side of Shalimar, the wonderful opening of the EDT, but not the drydown, while the opening of Shalimar EDT is much more wondrous.

this is Shalimar in his/her carefree teenage and after hours the drydown is also teenage-dressed, more detachable than the classic.

tulipani

I blind bought this scent awhile ago (during cooler weather), mostly because I enjoy a few of the Shalimar flankers and because of the beautiful peacock bottle. I was unimpressed upon trying it a few times. It's a pleasant enough sweet citrus-y floral, but entirely unremarkable and bearing no resemblance to Shalimar.

Cut to warmer weather, this scent blooms beautifully on my skin! The citrus is more alive, the florals more sultry. And even in the drydown I'm now detecting some incense-y vibe. Overall, the warmth makes it a much more complex and interesting fragrance. I feel like I can now tell why it's a Shalimar flanker. I'm so glad I kept this for the bottle, because the juice is now worthy!

Whify

I love this fresh yet sweet lemony scent. It does remind me of homemade lemon curd, cake, cookies and meringue pie, so definitely a gourmand. Not terribly sophisticated but I wear it for myself, not to impress others.

CJ1991

Based on the notes this sounded divine and I really wanted to love it. After receiving a sample I actually don't know what to think...

It's non offensive and light but there's something that smells, I'm unsure of how to put this, odd? It reminds me of a deodorant spray I had in high school. Like the Impulse brand ones! Perhaps the 'lemon cake' comparisons made me expect a warm, bakery like scent from the vanilla with a freshness from the lemon.

Maybe I just need to give it another go?

BlackOrchidSorceress

Sophisticated, sultry lemon vanilla with a touch of delicate powder. If you don't like it at first, put in away for a week and spray it on yourself once a day for 3 days. You will either be obsessed or you will know you want to part with it.

UPDATE: I literally had the lowest of expectations for this because I’m not usually into anything powdery or white floral perfumes but THIS is PERFECTION. The more I use it the more completely enthralled I become. This is pure magic. It is probably going to end up being my signature scent.

ma2780

To my nose it's a really nice, powdery vanilla. The citrus is predominant and gives it a fresh coldness that keeps it comfortably out of the category of pastry sweet. When I first smelled it, I loved it. I was sure it'd be up there in my top 10. But I got so bored so quickly.

It's nice, it's just very safe. It's soft, comforting, classy, and sophisticated and (I don't mean this to be a bad thing), it made me feel maternal in a way? The woman I see wearing this vacations with her family at their summer home on Nantucket and wears mostly navy, white, and gold. She spent all day by the ocean and now the temperature has dropped slightly and she threw this on with an expensive sweater to go get dinner.

Really had to overspray to make this last more than a couple hours. Sits very close to the skin. I ended up giving it away as it just didn't suit me.

PS I've noticed some people pronouncing souffle as "soufflé" and saying that it smells just like the name-- like a baked good. Souffle is actually french for "breath" and I think that's totally fitting for this delicate fragrance. It almost smells like an expensive body cream or something. Thought that might help someone :)




More perfume reviews on YouTube: Maisie Fragrances

TexasOrangeBlossom

Luscious, creamy citrus vanilla! It’s so lovely. I had my husband smell this on me and tell me what he smelled. Vanilla straight away, then he said tangerine. I’m guessing that is the blend of citruses that gave him that impression. Finally, he said orange blossom and maybe jasmine. Pretty good!
For me, this is what I want in a summer fragrance. I generally prefer Souffle Intense because of the added benzoin, but that’s too much for hot summer days. Warning: wearing this may make you want lemonade and lemon bars and lemon bundt cake.

KayleeAp

I am disappointed in this one (or maybe it is my nose that I am disappointed with). I get absolutely no vanilla in this one at all whatsoever, not initially and not in the dry down. I can't even explain the notes that I smell in this. Not really citrus. Sort of a fresh scent that is aquatic-adjacent. It isn't a scrubber on me, I am not offended by this and wouldn't be if someone else around me wore it, but I also can't ever imagine myself reaching for this. Agreed with other reviews that this has no similarity with the original Shalimar (and I also wasn't expecting it to - apart from perhaps some sort of vanilla). The bottle itself is absolutely lovely.

martinezalanezi

I love Shalimar Souffle de Parfum. I do enjoy the original Shalimar, but the civet is too powerful for me sometimes. I prefer this one for summer evenings, especially if I expect to stay home and relax. I am not a citrus fan, but I love this one because the opening is not harsh. I is bright, but warmed down by an immediate detection of vanilla. It's the known Shalimar vanilla that is oriental and spicy without being overly sweet. I love spraying myself a few times after I shower and put on fresh pajamas. It has great lasting power on me, as I sometimes can smell it throughout the night or even in the morning. It may be a Shalimar flanker but it retains it's own beauty and identity.

Looking For Gabby

Shalimar, Shalimar, Shalimar.

Shalimar Souffle de Parfum and I just can’t seem to get along. Don’t get me wrong this is beautiful, it’s beautiful on paper, and it’s beautiful when I sniff the atomizer. However, it is heavy on me. I tried wearing it in colder months; it didn’t work. I tried wearing it on cool but yet warm days; it didn’t work. I tried wearing it in hot days; it did not WORK!
I believe a perfume can be worn anytime and anywhere. I am mindful that some fragrances are higher maintenance and may perform better during a specific time and place. But how can one not have a middle ground? Maybe it’s me.

I love the original Shalimar too much to reject any of its offspring. I’ll continue to care for this one and promise to work on our relationship. Maybe in the future we will have a successful one.

I’m resisting the urge to buy the other flankers from this line but maybe I’ll try one more before they become hard to find.

ibanana

This is a flanker, not a remake of the original. They still sell Shalimar - the OG. Why are people making a fuss that this isn't Shalimar? It's supposed to be in the same line as the original, which it is. This isn't meant to be a "new" Shalimar...just a modern twist on an old classic (aka flanker), without removing the OG from the line. So...not sure about why people are offended by this flanker haha.

This perfume still has the classic powdery vanilla sweetness. The notes are absolutely a nod to the OG Shalimar. If they make a flanker that's identical or super similar to the original perfume, people will be upset that it's too similar.

Just enjoy this gorgeous gem for what it is! The world is changing, people's tastes are evolving, and each generation has their own style. The perfumery world cannot be successful without being innovative and catering to the new crowd of people. I'm 29 and I don't think the Original Shalimar is suited to me and my taste. I feel it deserves to be worn by someone else who can really showcase it's beauty. For me, the Shalimar Souffle is absolutely more wearable for a daily scent and totally more suited for my nose.

It's good to have options and that's what Guerlain is doing. The house is giving people a chance to enjoy a coveted classic or enjoy a new take on the classic.

Bluebirdpsyche

People, this is a dream! It’s beautiful! It’s a lemon citrus jasmine vanilla confection of powdery musky wispy delicious magic. It’s feathery soft, exotic, elegant, sensual, and soothing. It’s very calming, and fresh, like a Mediterranean breeze. I love it ❤️

Longevity is decent, 6-8 hours.

cranky137

anyone Heard of this being discontinued - all the souffle line?

richechka

Shalimar ... my sweet sweet sweet, my fluffy fluffy friend, like a thousand clouds ☁️ ☁️ and I’m cuddling with them ☁️ ☁️

Such a comforting, soft, tender and delicate scent...
Such a yummy bouquet of white florals covered with a powdery blanket ( by the way the powder can remind you a bit of “Narciso” but without citrus)

This fragrance gives me so much positive vibes! Honestly, as only I wear it I feel loading of my mood and energy - although it’s calm and silent still is an amazing motivator like a cup of coffee when you feel weak 🦋

I do agree that “Shalimar Soufflé de Parfum” is more evening fragrance, but I assure you that a few drops of it in the lunch time will make your day 🦋

Good luck and be inspired 💋

Vanian

Have this in my collection for more than 6-7 months, now, but this is my first review about it. Something happened in the last couple of days, don't know if it is the warm weather, or my skin chemistry atm, but I really can't stop sniffing myself. It is second full day I wear it and I am sinking in a dusty clouds of 🍋 🍋 and more lemons + all the other citrus mixed with the white flowers and vanilla. I think this little blue bottle is 'brain washing' my mind and I don't want to wear anything else, but the Soufle.Absolute heaven. Love it to bits. I even think that if this existed when I got married, I would have liked this amazing beauty to accompany me during my wedding ceremony. Elegance and class in the most beautiful new wave in Shalimar original overall journey.

ekowala7

This is such a good fragrance. It smells like a musky lemon cookie - with such a warming note that rounds it out. I own Shalimar Lumiere and Souffle Intense (yes, three Shalimar flankers) and I think this is the most 'wearable' and mass pleasing of all the Souffle flankers.

The Intense is warmer, darker and deeper - thus the name Intense, and has a more smoky note whereas the Lumiere is very bright, light and more citrus. This is one of my favourite perfumes of all time - and despite all the flankers being cousins, I honestly can say I have a place for each of them in my collection.

If you're on the fence, just get this one. Definitely a safe blind buy.

Longevity is decent - especially for a citrusy based scent, 5-7 hours on the skin, longer on the clothes. Silage is moderate. This is really good stuff.

Overall - 8/10

FragrantMama

This is lovely and I am glad to have it in my collection. I love the original Shalimar so much and was so excited to try one of its flankers. I have to say that although I appreciate the modern spin on this it still doesn't compare to the originality and sophistication of Shalimar. The sillage and lasting power also isn't as strong. This is still a great scent, (I haven't met a Guerlain yet that I didn't like) but I am just not sure if it rises to the same level as Shalimar, Samsara, L'heure Bleue, and Chant d'Aromes. I love Guerlain scents in general and feel that there is no comparison. It is by far my favorite perfume house and sets the standard for complex and sophisticated scents. I think I am drawn to some of the more old school Guerlains and that could also be why this flanker is not as exciting for me. Still beautiful but not my favorite.

bagpusshkn

Tested my sample - Gorgeous opening I love the lemon, however I agree with the reviewer below this is weak and light so I won't be buying this one.

qwerty988

This is a strange one for me.

I adore Shalimar. I love citrus scents. I was expecting a sugary lemon cake dripping with incensey Shalimar magic. The perfect summer Shalimar.

Maybe I was expecting too much?

This for me is just a weak like. I get mostly musk, like 90% musk. Not so much citrus or vanilla or cozy smoke. I don't get any magic or depth.

It's very faint. I've sprayed at least 12 times in the past hour to get a real whiff, and while it's not unpleasant, I feel disappointed to have blind bought a whole bottle.

codymarieb

O. M. G.

This was a blind buy and what a wonderful blind buy it was!

This smells like a spicy, musky lemon cookie. But better. It's not cloying or sickeningly sweet. It's perfectly blended.

I haven't smelled the original Shalimar but I do have a bottle of that coming in the mail.

I absolutely ADORE this scent. I don't know where it's been all my life.

If you like spicy gourmands and enjoy lemon, you'll like this.

Fragrance Reviews & Hauls: My YouTube: The Simple Chic Life

Freckleface

I smell ocean, vanilla and blueberry😍👌 this is the parfume i love the most in my collection beside alien❤️

usermariah

I just received this today as a blind buy and I was definitely surprised. I personally don’t understand why quite a few reviews state that this is sweet and creamy and bordering gourmand..I don’t even get a whisper of that from this fragrance. It’s smells very mature and definitely gives that confident woman-in-charge vibe like I should be wearing pearls, a skirt suit w pantyhose, silk blouse and a tight chignon. The lemon is a bit too spicy and sharp for my liking so I’m not sure if I’m going to keep it.
Again, this is not bad at all, just not what I expected or typically wear.

UPDATE: it has been a day since I wrote that and I regret it! You know how sometimes you don’t know what you need until it’s just staring right at you? That’s what happened here. This fragrance is like red wine: you have to let it breathe before you pour a glass to let the flavors develop (although I’m sure all of us have skipped that step before). It’s amazing what 24hrs did to this. The screechy lemon that I spoke of is completely gone and what’s left is a lovely elegant scent with a dry sweetness that feels luxurious. It makes me feel powerful, sexy and cozy at the same time. 100% a keeper.

cillian1988

A man wearing this.. lighlty sweet and lemony i like it but not mad about it. The intense version is much more cake-y

Fragrance2123

I absolutely adore this! This is master perfumery, it's soft, it's like an ethereal breeze, it's pure beauty in a bottle!

This was a blind buy to me - the first day I got this I was intrigued by this perfume, but not in a very good way, I smelled a very sharp, stingy lemon in the opening and the dry down was way too musky, it didn't seem like a well rounded fragrance. It was like the lemon was battling the musk and the vanilla was just non-existent.

Just two days later...I'm in love.
This concoction became so pure - all the battling notes reconciled and now they compliment eachother so beautifully. The citrus opening is sweet(but not too much) and soft and it intertwines with the famous Guerlain vanilla, which is not warm, it's cold and and reserved and so elegant. The musk gives a nice base for the soft citrus and vanilla to shine and the result is a gentle touch of a scent, the name Souffle is perfect for this, it's like a breath, so soft and soothing. It's a silk scarf that is floating, a light breeze, the calming sound of the waves - an emotion.
This is so delicate and graceful. I wouldn't call this sexy at all, SdP has an innocent feel that surrounds it like a cloud. It has 0 vulgarity and frivolity.


This is the definition of beauty.


I need to try Souffle Intense as well, I'm addicted to this line.

Decodawn

A beautiful soft sexy musky fragrance. Definitely a relation of the original Shalimar the Guerlinade is there in the dry down but patience is required. The initial blast is fresh, but it quickly settles. Vanilla is of the highest quality with a musk base. Warm & sensual and very feminine not as sweet as Initial or L'eau. I have not sampled Souffle Intense but I will buy because I love the blue bottle which will eventually become collectors items. A wonderful longevity 7 hours and silage is arms length, does not fill a room. If you love the original Shalimar Edp I would advise to sample this fragrance first as it is very different. Lighter and musk. I must agree with the comparison with Chanel Allure and Sensuelle. Lovely. A big thumbs up.

gvenddy

For me It's a big disappointment. Smells like a green shield bug. The most unpleasant scent I've ever smelled after Eden Cacharel EDP. long lasting

MonkeyPuppet

Disclaimer: I have never tried any Shalimar perfumes before. Though on second thought that may not be true. I may have taken a quick sniff many years ago and decided that they were just too strong and didn't care for some notes. So I wasn't looking for Souffle to smell like Shalimar at all.

Well now I am smitten with Souffle. It wasn't love at first spray. In fact the first day I tried it, it had more an orange creamsicle vibe and I wasn't sure I would keep it.

I tried it now two days later and it was divine. Everything works together perfectly to make an amazing rich, pretty, white flower, citrus and vanilla that is so much better than more modern common offerings. Yes there was no incense, no civet, no vetiver, but that may have been what I don't like. The scent almost whirls around as it is settling with every moment giving another whiff of something special. It is new and old at the same time. I catch whiffs of past classic perfumes and new modern scents.

The first 3 hours are lovely. I am less in love with the final trailing off. I may sneak a respray midday at work to capture the well blended aspects of the fresh moments of the scent. But overall very nice. I hope I get a chance to try the Souffle Intense.

Atomikbomb_

I'm a huge hypocrite, because I'm always complaining about vanilla being in everything lately. This is insanely vanilla (vanilla being the entire cornerstone of this fragrance); yet I adore this. I also love the vanilla in Mon Guerlain exponentially more than I do in other fragrances (a richly perfect ice-creamy vanilla). So maybe I just enjoy Guerlain's vanilla more than other brands. It's soft, powdery, pillowy and sweetly refined without feeling syrupy or thick...it's on another level.

I get the vanilla (obviously haha), from opening to drydown. But it's surrounded by light citrus and amplified with a SUPER soft and feminine musk.

I expected this to be somewhat sensual, but I'm left with something surprisingly superior; a magnificently comforting scent that makes me feel surrounded in a soft cloud. I ranked this as being more of a winter scent, as I can't imagine wearing this anywhere more preferable than indoors in my pajamas while the weather is awful outside. That, of course, may seem like an insult to some who maintain that this is too special to use so casually, but I want to sit with this to myself and burrow up in it...alone. As an anxious introvert; this comes as highest praise 💙

I have a large 10ml decant and will probably turn to this at least a few times during this outbreak season, it soothes me, at least somewhat (hope all are doing well and finding comfort in these times)!

Miasha

VioletEyes and ChellyBelle84: very well put!! I really agree with you, that we should let everyone love the perfume they do love. If we let that be the case, then we will everyone have room to be individual and not walking around all smelling the same and looking the same.
I tried a sample of this, which I love. Of course it is very different from the original Shalimar. But it is equally classy, I think. To me, this is a ”clean” scent, somehow reminding me of clean laundry. I love the musc, I love the soft flowers, I love the vanilla, which I don’t read as a sweet vanilla at all. It’s an airy fragrance - unoffending, discreet enough to be a signature or wearing very often and in all surroundings.
I own the original Shalimar, and I like it a lot, and some days or nights I love it, but it is for certain occasions for me - not at all this versatile. Happy I own that classic, though, I wanted to begin with that one when I was buying something from the line, to get an idea of it and then being able to compare with flankers, as well as with other older fragrances.
So then, this is a modern one, but I hope they will let it stay available for good, to be a classic as well. I will buy it when I’ve got money to do so.

mohsen95

5/10

Rosemary14

I went back and forth about whether or not to be honest about this fragrance. I think that there is something in the Guerlain DNA that doesn’t agree with me. I put two sprays of this fragrance on and after about 15 min the powdery dry down or something in it caused me to have an allergic reaction. The same thing happened with Terracotta. I started sneezing non stop, my throat became all scratchy, itchy, and I felt like I was choking, my eyes were red and irritated. The same thing happens with Chanel No 5 to me. Any fragrance that is this powdery (and this is a powder bomb) causes this reaction in me. It starts out innocently enough from, “Oh, this is powdery.” To, “It’s very powdery.” Then to, “Powder! Hey, you’re wearing POWDER!! Do you get that everyone??” It’s a shame because I really love the opening of so many Guerlain fragrances and they are so quality. *sad face*

This is something that used to happen to me more often when it came to fragrance. I actually mistakenly thought that I did not like perfume at all except for Chanel Allure which is the only fragrance I’d wear because I was sort of afraid of perfume. Then I started figuring out that I could handle mild fragrance then other fragrances especially more modern fragrance’s were wonderful and fine. If anyone know’s what kind of ingredient that causes that very strong powdery texture in fragrances so I could figure out what it is that’s causing this I’d be very appreciative.

Violeteyes

Chellebelle, completely 100% agree. There are people who adore this scent, and as far as I understand, there’s room for everyone to have a Shalimar flanker to love. Not every flanker has to be exactly the same, and that’s the point. You can either get with it or get going.

As for myself, I don’t currently own Shalimar Souffle De Parfum, but I’d love a sample someday. I love the Intense version and I’m pretty sure I will love this one too. Lemon Meringue Pie sounds delicious and beautiful!

In the meantime, I would encourage the Negative Nancies to really think about how others feel, how your words affect others and the company, and leave Souffle de Parfum alone for people who enjoy it to keep doing so. Go enjoy your original Shalimar and leave the rest of us in peace with the fragrances we love.

ChelleBelle84

For all you people screaming, “this is not a shalimar!” That is exactly how Shalimar parfum initial got discontinued. People such as myself LOVED that parfum, but it got bashed into discontinuation. Because of that, I lost MY Shalimar. Now you’re doing it here and will bash this into discontinuation too taking it away from people who love this. Will that make you happy and satisfied? How miserable!

As for Shalimar, it was a garden. Do you grow all the same flowers in your garden? Do you not have variety in your garden? Not every flanker is going to smell exactly like the original. A flanker adds a different interpretation like one plants a different flower in a garden. Things in common though are the citrus and vanilla which is the general theme of the Shalimar garden. No?

So please be inclusive and allow people to enjoy this garden, even if it is not in the same area of the garden that you enjoy because not everyone has the exact same chemistry as you! Thank you!

Edit to add: someone complained to me about Guerlain being greedy by “capitalizing” on Shalimar to make a profit. Ok, it’s a company that needs to make a profit just like any other company to stay in business. Also consider that Guerlain has employees that want to have jobs and make a living. If you keep being greedy keeping Shalimar all to yourselves, bashing all its products into discontinuation because they don’t smell like Shalimar on YOUR skin, without even considering that those products were developed to work for someone else on THEIR skin, you’ll eventually shut the company down completely, put people out of work, and you won’t have YOUR Shalimar anymore either. Would that make you happy then?

Nilo63

This was a gift from my niece, who also turned me on to this website.

For years I wore Shalimar, but I then moved to warmer climate and stopped wearing my beloved orientals, as this city demands lighter, cleaner fragrances.

Shalimar Souffle has been the greatest revelation for me in the last 3 years. In my view, it is a much younger, sweeter representation of the original, but I find it would suit just about anyone at any age, and it has allowed me the possiblity to wear Shalimar again in this heat.

I of course still prefer the original, but this fragrance is indeed evocative of it, and its sweet new facets are certainly welcome by me. I smell like an elegant, expensive, lemon/vanilla cake.

This fragrance is one I treasure and only wear with special company. It has become a perennial in my collection.

Deppaholic

I bought the "Intense" version first, and went in search of more, because I loved it so much, and thought, wow, I must try them all. Bought a bottle of this, and so I will say, I love the "Intense" more. This came in a much the bigger bottle. I do love the packaging, so divine. Don't get me wrong, it is lovely, but lighter, hence, the other is is named intense. I guess I go for Intense more perhaps maybe because I am a child of the 70's when Halston ruled and all those spicy fragrances were abound. Of course, at least I gravitated towards those. These are beautiful. I still love the original Shalimar too. I just love the house of Guerlain, makeup and all, the fragrance is either a hit or miss on me, but that happens with everyone. I'm so happy I gave them a whirl, if you have a chance, you might want to also, it may be a nice surprise for yourself.

Anast4s1a

The lightest, refined and transparent version of Shalimar.
"Souffle" in french means "breath ".In my opinion, this name fully reflects the character of the fragrance.

Dusted-musk vanilla, lemon and tangerine marmalade in chocolate glaze & tea with bergamot. And on top like a veil of orange blossom and delicate jasmine. The bouquet is sweetish, but not cloying owing to flowers that give the aroma balance. Subtle, luxury plume fills the space, but does not interfere with anyone.
Oriental, elegant, flirting and delicately magical.

The men around me like it ; they tell me about it when I wear breath of Shalimar.

Tori7b4

I just received this Shalimar Souffle and I am disappointed I think I bought the wrong one I should have bought the Intense version. It is too citrusy for my liking. I love Vanilla note, and I don't get Vanilla not even on the dry down, would anyone be interested in an exchange for the Shalimar Souffle Intense version? Only spray few times still have box

Pianomelody

I love this perfume, it's so unique, romantic, french-style. Beautiful Guerlain perfume, which as always amazes me. Like a soft cloud it rests on you, evoking moments and memories.... on the bottom a magical and wonderful white musk. Thank you Guerlain for this masterpiece. LOVE IT!! 💙

Sillage: 6.5/10
Longevity: 7.5/10
Scent: 9.5/10

Overall: 9.5/10

auroramaria

Superb,beautiful scent with soft cuddly citrus vanilla,not strong,hence the name,bit lingers long on skin,very elegant and super feminine ,airy and comforting,a real beauty

100ml of Sass

Fluffy lemon, vanilla and musk clouds. It's very pretty and innocent, reminds me of a gorgeous, ethereal woman with soft, delicate, feminine features, dressed in white - almost angelic.
It's not gourmand at all. It has medium strength in terms of sillage - not too loud and not too quiet. It projects really well, which is a huge plus. Moderate longevity. It's versatile for any occasion. Although I prefer louder/ more obnoxious scents, I really do like this one.

GunkaKhazar

I bought this perfume after smelling it on my friend. I immediately fall in love with the scent. it opens with strong lemon citrus scent and after a while, you smell powdery musk. Unfortunately, I couldn't love this perfume on me. Because I only smell citrus (which I don't like) and longevity is worst, total disappointment for such an expensive perfume.
I will never purchase it again. ((

Petals_and_Perfumes

11/05/19 - As soon as I smelled this, it brought me back to my childhood. My Grandma wore this! So right there all I can think about is her. I cannot wear this - all I get is the vanilla and musk. There’s no “ fresh and light citrus aromas of lemon, bergamot and mandarin”, nor do I detect orange blossom. It’s just a powdery bomb. Nope. PASS. Definitely donating this. It was great for Grams and there it shall stay in my memory of her.

I can see this as absolutely overbearing, bringing those around someone wearing it to nausea. It’s heavy. For me, I can’t imagine more than one spritz as sufficient. Anything more, for me, would make me head the other way. Best advice - GO EASY. More is not more with this one. Let yourself carry the notes, not the other way around.

ivadim

Първата ми среща с него беше от блотер, без да знам нищо за марката. Тогава между него и Prada l'eau ambre избрах Prada, но след близо 3 години си го купих:) в хладно време ми е най-добър, тогава винаги разбирам защо го исках. Много различен от останалите герлен за мен.

sibaraa

Im in love upon first spray! I don't know where to begin. The most natural citrusy vanilla that i've ever smelled. There is that classy guerain dna with a tad bit of the shalimar gene. Thank god for that ofcourse. This reminded me of the 90's when the greatest perfumes were born.

Esi42

Not sure how to explain this little gem piece. It's mysterious, sweet, very feminine and just the perfect amount of powderness. Not very heavy and in your face, but instead leaves a soft trail behind. One of my favourites. I definitely can wear it for all types of occasions-I personally think it's a safe scent.

Nancy83

It smells like a sweet lemon meringue pie, if love gourmand perfumes and lemon desserts, give it a try.

The fragrance is sweet, relatively light, I didn't found it smoky or really musky. It's a comforting smell and people around me love it. The projection is average, but it has a good longevity, it slowly goes softer and I get good sniffs of lemon pie even 6-8 hours after application on my cleavage.

I haven't try any other Shalimar perfumes, but this one is ticking all the boxes. I love the smell so much I want to eat it! I have 2 samples and I thought seriously about buying it, the only thing that makes me hesitate is that it's similar to another favorite of mine, Dior Poison Girl EDT. Shalimar Souffle De Parfum is lighter and slightly less sweet than Poison Girl EDT, more lemony sweet instead of orangy sweet. Anyway, both are my type, I will finish my Souffle De Parfum samples and see, I'm very tempted.

stitcherista

Lovely, soft, and lemony, but too much powder for me. It's a delicate fragrance and totally inoffensive, suited for office wear or when a light fragrance is preferred over something heavier, such as original Shalimar.

I don't detect much sweetness. It's mostly a light, dry fragrance that is very pleasant but ultimately whispers too quietly for me. I imagine it would layer nicely with something stronger but haven't tested that hypothesis, and my bottle will be going to a new home anyway.

ReWeegh

Ultimate Love. Started from like and evolved quickly to top 3. Unfortunately I can’t wear original Shalimar as that one is pure burned rubber on my skin in the first 2-3 hours, but this Souffle is a pure joy. It is slightly sweet, slightly citrusy, slighty powdery, vanilla is beautiful, the notes are blended perfectly to one. It is rich, deep yet not cloying or heavy.

aguschinita

What a joke... pleople who say this fragrance is similar to the same flankers. If I really want to find a similar perfume, I can’t because it’s all filled with the same flankers. Be creative, please!

StrawberryX

Maybe my nose is different but I cannot smell Lemon souffle or pie. It is not sweet, but rather dry.Musk, a little Lemon maybe and dried mushrooms. A little synthesic like plastic or rubber. This is on the masculine side. Was commented that it smelled strange and masculine. Could be a winner if you like musky perfumes. It is quite sexy but not just my style.

Jobob

I think this fragrance smells divine. It seems to have mixed reviews but I love it. The lemon and vanilla combination works great on me. It isn’t overpowering so it can be worn year round. It retains just a little bit of the original Shalimar but, different enough to be it’s own unique scent . This one is a love for me.

Rosemary14

This was a blind purchase for me and honestly it smells exactly like I imagined it would. It’s a soft musky, vanilla, lemon cloud. It’s just a tiny bit powdery and sweet but not cloying. It’s just like a delicious citrusy, vanilla, dessert. I can’t see anyone under the age of 30 wearing this. Sometimes I feel like Guerlain is a little too grown up for me. It smells like old money if you know what I mean. I don’t need to tell anyone here that Guerlain is some of the highest quality you can find. Guerlain isn’t by any means modern and it doesn’t need to be or really try to be. I think of Guerlain when I think of Versailles and what people would have put on their hankie’s in the 1700’s. Where Chanel is Adurey Hepburn in her classy little black dress walking down 5th Ave. Guerlain is Marie Antoinette in an opulent haute couture gown drenched in jewels and silk throwing a royal ball. In other words it’s perfumey. Gosh it has fantastic longevity. I wish all my perfumes lasted half as long. Two spray’s lasted 11 hours.


Update: This warms up really nicely on my skin. It becomes warmer, smoother, a little more rich and i can smell the orange now. It also becomes much more powdery on me. My skin amp’s up the powder in any fragrance to a 10.

Freckleface

The most amazing fragrance in the world in my eyes!
IT was true deep love with first sniff (blind buy).

Om my skin it smells fresh juicy blueberry and raw real vanilla and fresh ocean vibes!

IT is like meditation in a bottle for me, touch my sences in a deeper level than any parfumes out there.

Love IT so much!

Anamandy

I wore this all yesterday morning. When I got home from work I took a shower and put on Shalimar cologne. What a difference! Why Guerlain bothered to call this Shalimar is beyond me? There is nothing Shalimar about it. I prefer Shalimar Cologne and Shalimar Eau de Cologne, as they still retain some of the essence of the original Shalimar (the Guerlainade?). While this is nice, it really doesn't make me think of Shalimar when I wear it. I feel like it should have been another perfume instead of a flanker of Shalimar. It is just too different. The jury is still out for me on whether I like this or not. Actually, it's really not even a question of that. It's more a disappointment that it doesn't resemble Shalimar much at all that is throwing me.

sopke

Oh dear, this is a okay but far from love relationship. I adore Shalimar in most appearing, but this one... i still wait for the click moment to start cherishing it, which already happened with few scents from beloved Guerlain. Plastic bergamot and vanilla, no citruses... Why why why my skin messes up with me? though staying power is outstanding and i keep it till that moment in the future.

HouseofKeisha

I have Souffle de Parfum on my right hand and it smells like a lemon-vanilla cake. Even though I love the original citrus-incense-vanilla combination, there’s something sweet, warm and gourmand about this version and I really dig it. Like some other reviewers, I get the creaminess that probably musk is playing a role and the honeyed effect of the orange blossom absolute. It’s really a beautiful re-interpretation of an established classic. Definitely on my buy list.

goingblonde

At first spray a nice light Lemon that is not bitter , quickly turning into a lovely floral and settles into a soft floral/Vanilla that has great silage and longevity for me .
This was a blind buy that has turned out to be a favorite :)

cookygirl

I have a sample of this.
On me it's just vanilla. No lemon that I can detect.
Very disappointing cause I really wanted an excuse to buy something from the Souffle line. The bottles are to die for. Real works of art in and of themselves.

Avian

I was also disappointed, much like the others, when I first smelled Souffle, as it is nothing like other Shalimars at all. However, I agree that when it is approached as an independent flanker, it does shine.

Souffle opens up with a strong poof of vanilla- not like Shalimar's dusty, dry, powdery vanilla. It actually smells like white amber, a la Alkemia Ghost Fire. White amber has a sparking aquatic undertone but retains a hearty sweetness. It's a step up from typical sweet vanillas that fall into a syrupy, gourmand, or "perfumey" category. Swiftly following the vanilla is a crisp silvery musk- it's not quite laundry white musk but it's not skanky either. It does lean more laundry-y than I like, which makes me overall dislike Souffle as a perfume. A shame, the bottle is gorgeous. There is a juicy citrus- not crisp like original Shalimars, this accord has more mouthwatering qualities to it and a stronger lemon presence.

shushkin

I was so curious to try this that I bought a decant. Boy, was I underwhelmed. Yes, it was lovely but I could barely smell it. It was completely gone in less than 30 mins !?!??? Such a shame.
I absolutely love vanilla with orange notes. Ah well the hunt continues.

sugaryrose

The scent is OK, nothing impressive but still nice. Performance, though, is very disappointing. :( Almost no projection and lasts for a few hours only.

EauDeNeige

I also wanted to add, that it very much reminds me of Eau de Dolce Vita Perfume by Christian Dior in terms of its warm, heady scent.

EauDeNeige

As an ardent lover of Shalimar Initial, I was devastated when they discontinued it! It was perfect on my skin and I was sure to wear it forever. Souffle is beautiful and I do like it a lot, it's not Initial at all but it's soft and golden.

It's VERY warm on my skin and makes me feel warm and glowing when I wear it. I do detect the lemon cake that people are saying but it's more golden to me. I love this scent, it's a touch sweeter than I normally wear but it's still sexy. I also happen to love Mitsouko and sometimes add a dab to this scent to give it some very strong legs.

It's odd, because I have never been able to wear true Shalimar but tend to really love its derivatives a lot.

This perfume is vanilla, golden, warm and caressing. I really love it and as a blind buy, I'm really happy with it.

laurenz

A very disappointing blind buy. All I get is some sickening musk and generic citrus. I can't wait to return this.

SaraX

Based on the notes and reviews here, I really thought I would like this, or even love this. Usually I adore the combination of vanilla, citrus and white florals. And it got even better, when I read that this would be creamy, like a creamy lemon cake. And then came the comparisons to Lancome Hypnose, which is one of my all time favourite night/winter time scents.

The original Shalimar never suited me, but this sounded so promising. But on my skin this is just pure musk and citrusy spiciness, and the white florals are far too sharp.

Glad I tested before buying. The house of Guerlain is very high on my list of both vintage and modern days perfume houses, if not the highest, but I guess I will have to leave at least all the Shalimars, Samsaras and LPRNs for those whom they suit better than me.

carleighmarley

I smell a chocolate note. This is reminiscent, to my nose, of a more grown up Vera Wang Princess. I don’t smell much vanilla but that could change. I do love Princess but I was hoping for more of the creamy lemon everyone else gets. I’ll update as the day goes.

monicabalteanu

As I could find no shop to test it, I blind bought it on line (based on the notes & reviews here on Fragrantica) and it was Love at first sniff! I love the opening notes and the drydown; the citrus&sweet vanilla mix is simply delicious and so different from all other fragrances I have (or have tested). Gorgeous! So I'd say this is my favourite Guerlain so far! I wish I could find the intense version of it (I'd blind buy it too!)

Iwet

This is the only one Shalimar I actually like and find wearable for myself. Just noticed that when it dries down on my skin, it smells like lighter version of Lancome's Hypnose. As I already have Hypnose, I'm a little bit disappointed.

NoelleNice

Opens as creamy lemonade! I don’t get the baked good comparisons at all. To me it smells like vanilla and lemon effervescence floating above a heavier, albeit soft, floral musk. This is a lot fresher than other fragrances with gourmand notes, which suits me nicely. Of all the Guerlains I’ve tried so far, this has to be my favourite. It dries down with a nod to the classic guerlain base that I think I’m only just beginning to understand, but maintains a light airiness above the more creamy, soft notes.

gtabasso

this is a gourmand and goes on like lemon baked goods with a musky depth; I usually like intense versions of items but I have both and prefer this to the intense

sweet2mechii

I sprayed this on the cardboard of the sample at night and it was still noticeable the next morning, right now it's 17:46 and there's still a good trace of it, amazing!
For me this perfume smells exactly the way the bottle of it looks. Reminds me of a surreal winter night. The sweet vanilla quality only comes after hours and hours of wear, otherwise some would even consider this fragrance to be quite masculine.

Daria_21

I went to visit my mum today, and I couldn’t help but notice that she smelled absolutely lovely. I got her into fragrance a year or so ago, and when I asked her what she was wearing, she excitedly showed me a sample vial of Shalimar Soufflé de Parfum.

Okay - this is heavenly! How on earth have I not tried this before today?!

While I’m not going to pretend I can pick out various notes, I will say I smell a light, airy, fluffy, floral lemon cake type scent that made me go out and spend my Shoppers points on a 90 ml bottle. It’s muggy and warm here in Ontario, and this perfume really blossoms in the heat. I see that this fragrance is described as fluffy in many reviews, and that truly is the perfect word to describe it. Light, airy, fizzy and fluffy. Many reviews I read say this has poor projection and longevity, but I have to strongly disagree. My mum had only sprayed it once, and it was a soft, beautiful cloud surrounding and following her. When I opened my newly acquired bottle, I of course tried it right away and now, 5.5 hours later, I’m getting frequent wafts of this.

The bottle is, of course, gorgeous. Feels heavy and weighted in the hand, and the ombré colour effect is the cherry on top.

SO beautiful, and so glad I got a bottle. If you happen to stumble across this one, it deserves a test, at the very least. I can’t see how this would be offensive to anybody. Only pleasing. Mmmmm.

Perfumeroo

I purchased a sample of this from ebay. I must say, the name alone intrigued me. Initially there was a recognizable original Shailmar note. It quickly morphed into a soft, musky vanilla. If Shalimar is the classy dame, Soufflé is her teenage sister with a pony tail and bubblegum. Pleasant. But doesnt have the warm spiciness.

loraxsix

I bought this because of the notes, not for the Shalimar name. (I like Shalimar, and though I see no relation cannot hold it against the perfume). This is light, airy, and fizzy. It's Guerlain quality lemon meringue pie with a soda. I love it! It's a perfect light spring & summer scent. Stays close to the skin, but is still noticed by others. My favorite gentle scent.

aguschinita

Very soft fragrance. Lemony meringue that does not project too much, but hugs you warmly and comforting without losing its elegance. Very inviting! Plus, the bottle is gorgeous!

meow78

This is the softest scent I own. Not in a barely there way, rather a lingering powder puff of floral lemon vanilla beauty. It’s more a delicate floral on me than the gourmand everyone else describes. Souffle was a safe blind buy for me - it’s sexy like Shalimar, but so easy to wear and love. While it does stay close to my skin, it has good longevity as long as it’s not too hot outside. (Also, it’s always light, never cloying.)

Gabler

With Shalimar Souffle de Parfum, I can visualize myself eating the entire Tarte au citron meringuée, spoonful by spoonful. It´s gourmand, citrusy, fluffy, light, pleasantly sweet & delicious. Enough said.
/I want to emphasize I´m writing this with respect to this perfume. Moreover, it´s called "souffle" & I´m suggestible, what can I do?/

Sweetmusk

I really like this one. It has a lot of sweet citrus at first that you just want to keep inhaling. I love this kind of citrus, something cake-ish about it, it is not boring to me. Then it turns into summer beach salty impressions but more like an evening or night fragrance, definitely a vacation feel :-)

TheTragicMuse

Interestingly, I get a whiff of what smells like Commodity's Whiskey (which I really like) during the opening. The citrus scents follow suit, and then my favourite part which is the dry down steps in. Vanilla is the most dominant scent on my skin, which is usually the case for most perfumes that have a vanilla base. The composition and dry down isn't very complex, but I think that is precisely why I like it for everyday wear.

I really do enjoy this perfume, also due to the fact that the Jasmine Sambac doesn't rear its ugly head at all - Jasmine is one of my least liked scents.

Unfortunately for me, this scent is only capable of sitting close to the skin. The sillage isn't projected at all. The upside here is that is lasts very long on me, I can still smell it the next morning even though I put it on before sleeping. I might have to purchase a full bottle once I'm done with my decant!

minizelda

My boyfriend gifted me this last night and I LOVE it!

For me, it is really hard to correlate Souffle de Parfum with other Shalimars since it is very soft and stays very close to my skin. Also, it lacks the intensity of it, but it does still contain its same charm and the mysterious aspect of the original. Nonetheless, it is a ''passe-partout'' type of scent, not agressive and neutral. I will wear this when I don't feel like wearing my mostly intense and sensual scents.

Overall 7/10

Bubbles1964

Of course I know of the legendary Shalimar, but I am not familiar with the scent so I didn't bring the baggage of expectations. I bought this on fragrencenet, It is incorrectly listed as the 2015 version (when in reality it is this one form 2014). I got the 30ml for around $25.

Decided to take it for a test drive, and she rides smoothly. Creamy vanilla goodness with citrus, it reminds me of lemon mousse and it's delicious. Stays close to skin so office safe. I would wear this in every season except Summer. Happy to keep this one in the collection.

criscorbel

souffle of disapointment.

Danielle79

I actually really like this perfume. I also as others have said wish it wasn’t under the Shalimar name because if this was made in a different bottle and named something else I think people would love this scent more. I think it being compared to Shalimar so strongly is kinda unfair imo. But I’m the type who just loves to wear a good perfume names don’t matter too much to me. Onto to the scent I really love the citrus opening if the bergamot was stronger it would probably be a touch more Shalimar like. But I love the citrus opening of this it smells so fresh but not clean just fresh and citrusy. Then as it goes on I get the beautiful Jasmine with the orange blossom it’s lovely. Finally I like the vanillas and I’m a musk lover so I enjoy this a lot!

What I love is that the white musk is not laundry like at all. To me it’s a smooth sweet musk that pairs well with the vanillas. As I type this I catch whiffs of the vanilla and I really adore it. I bought this on a blind buy due to my love of white florals so I’m super happy! I purchased the 3oz bottle and I adore the bottle so pretty! I would buy this again it’s wonderful. But I would also like Pafume initial brought back I just wanted to throw that out as that was very Shalimar like so why it was d/c’d is beyond me?!? Still this is a lovely scent so I’m a happy girl. :)

artemis16

This fragrance was a gentle reintroduction to orientals for me, but it’s an odd one.

It’s not listed but what I get as an overall feel is incense, along with the bergamot and lemon. The vanilla is thin and cool. No flowers.
All of this makes an impression that is too aloof for my liking, even though people enjoy it a lot on me. Still, despite the fact that it seems to work on my skin and I wear it very often, it has a disturbing element.

The uncomfortable feeling I get from it led me to my first layering experiment: I’ve been using it most of this winter with Dame’s Black Flower Mexican Vanilla oil rollerball and it warms up and deepens considerably, making it a very successful combination and an even bigger people-pleaser.
Still I won’t repurchase after it’s gone.

raiza1990

This one is unfortunately a dislike for me. It does have that mysterious Shalimar vibe, but it is way too citrusy and powdery for me. It smells like vintage washing powder.

hsheep

I think I figured out what the secret ingredient is with me and any Shalimar - cold weather. The vanilla warmth and powderiness really comes out with every one I've tried, they all turn so deliciously comfy with my chemistry in the winter time.

I tried this 2 years ago in the spring and really liked it, but then something happened and all I could smell was lemon musk floor polish. Looking back, I'm really thinking it was the warmer weather. The vanilla hid from me then, but it's back now! This is oh so cozy while still keeping on the fresher side. There's light powdery white florals, lots of zesty citrus and musk and a cozy vanilla base. I wish the mid notes lasted longer though, the mix of the florals and vanilla is my favourite part. I lose that in the dry down, just some citrus/vanilla musk, and am left missing the cozy floral mix.

AnnBerg

It was not what I expected but I love it. It is quite different from most perfumes. It smells citrusy and fresh but is also warm and powdery with vanilla. It is rather delicate but lasts a long time. For me it does not resemblance Coco Mademoiselle that is much sharper. This is an elegant, warm and powdery lemon meringue pie scent that I find absolutely lovely.

greyhoundmom

Ahh.. English tea time on a cool but sunny spring day. Earl Grey and lemon scones.

The bergamot is warm while the lemon is luscious and juicy but rounded out with a musky vanilla. Beautiful fragrance, my favorite Shalimar flanker.. I love it much more than Parfum Initial. They are very different. This is the truly gourmand Shalimar, in my opinion.. while PI is the trendier sweet patchouli type.

And what a gorgeous bottle... classy deep blue, flawless ombre glass..

 
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