
Calvin Klein's Obsession is a perfume that was launched in 1985 for women and 1986 for men. The scent is described as woody, spicy, and smoky, with notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and citrus. Some people consider it a classic, while others find it too musky and overpowering. Over the years, some users have noticed changes in the formula, with some claiming that the current formulation smells putrid compared to the original. However, others still enjoy the scent and find it comforting and reminiscent of the 1980s.
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Obsession's scent and formula have been altered
Obsession, the iconic Calvin Klein fragrance, has indeed undergone changes to its formula and scent over the years. The perfume, which first launched in 1985 for women and 1986 for men, has a dedicated following, with many associating the scent with the 1980s and 1990s.
The fragrance is known for its bold, spicy, and sensual character, with notes of cinnamon, vanilla, musk, amber, and citrus. However, some long-time wearers have noticed a difference in the scent's formulation. One person described the current version as "dramatically altered" and "vintage," indicating that it no longer smells like the original iteration.
Some reviewers have expressed disappointment with the new formulation, finding it less appealing than the original. One person described the new scent as putrid compared to the version they wore in the 1980s. Another reviewer mentioned that the scent had lost its muskiness and become lighter and more feminine, with prominent floral notes.
On the other hand, some people still appreciate the fragrance. One reviewer commented that, despite their changing tastes, Obsession remains a classic that evokes comfort and excellence from the 1980s. Another reviewer praised the scent as "beautiful," "dark," sensual, and warm, capturing the essence of the 1980s.
While it is clear that the formula and scent of Obsession have evolved, opinions on the changes vary. Some loyal fans may continue to seek out the vintage version, while others may embrace the updated fragrance as a modern interpretation of a classic.
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The perfume is considered a classic
Obsession by Calvin Klein is considered a classic. The women's fragrance was launched in 1985, and the men's cologne in 1986. The perfume is characterised by its deep, spicy, and smoky scent, with notes of basil, peach, vanilla, lemon, bergamot, mandarin orange, jasmine, rose, cedar, sandalwood, musk, amber, and more.
The scent is described as boozy, sweet, edible, musky, sexy, and woody. It is said to be a masterpiece, a timeless classic, and a forever love. One reviewer states that it is "a scent for an authentic soul". Another describes it as "sexy, spicy & smoky, the drydown is stunning".
The men's cologne is described as "a beautiful fragrance" with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, lavender, coriander, citrus, red berries, carnation, jasmine, vanilla, sandalwood, musk, and amber. It is said to have a "very warm and nostalgic feel". The cologne is considered a classic of the 1980s, capturing the essence of the decade.
Obsession has undergone reformulations over the years, and some reviewers note that the scent has changed. Some state that the newer formulations are lighter and more floral, while others find them to be thinner and less appealing. However, others still find the vintage versions of the fragrance to smell the same as they remember.
Despite the changes, Obsession remains a beloved fragrance for many, with a dedicated following.
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It's a comfort scent with 80s muskiness
Obsession by Calvin Klein is a well-known perfume that was launched in 1985. The fragrance has been described as "sexy, spicy, and smoky", with ""amber spicy scents" and "green and floral and barky bits". It has also been called "boozy, sweet, edible, musky, sexy, and open to all experiences". The perfume has a strong association with the 1980s and is considered a classic scent from that decade.
Some people who have worn Obsession since its launch in the 1980s have noticed changes in its formulation over time. One person who wore the perfume in the 1980s and then again in the 2000s noted that it did not smell the same and that the newer version smelt "putrid". Another person who wore it in the 1990s and then smelled it again later said that it was "much thinner". These changes in the formula may be due to reformulations, as one person who tried a vintage version of the perfume found that it still smelled the same.
Despite these reported changes, Obsession appears to retain its status as a classic and beloved fragrance. It is described as a "comfort scent" with a "muskiness" that harkens back to the 1980s. The perfume has a strong following, with some people considering it a "masterpiece" and a "forever love". The scent is said to have a long-lasting presence, with one reviewer noting that it lasted 6-8 hours on their skin.
The notes in Obsession include basil, peach, vanilla, lemon, bergamot, mandarin orange, green notes, jasmine, orange blossom, rose, cedar, sandalwood, coriander, oakmoss, spices, vetiver, incense, civet, musk, and amber. The combination of these notes creates a unique and memorable fragrance that has stood the test of time, despite reported changes in its formulation.
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Obsession is a masculine, warm, and sensual fragrance
Obsession by Calvin Klein is a fragrance that has been described as masculine, warm, and sensual. The cologne, launched in 1986, is known for its strong cinnamon and vanilla notes, with hints of citrus and musk. It has become a classic scent, evoking the excess and glamour of the 1980s.
Over the years, some wearers have noticed changes in the formulation of Obsession. Some claim that the newer versions lack the depth and richness of the original, with one wearer describing the current formulation as "putrid". The scent is said to have been dramatically altered, moving away from the muskier, more amber-heavy fragrance of the past.
However, it is important to note that scent is highly subjective and influenced by individual body chemistry. Some people continue to adore Obsession, finding it a comforting and elegant fragrance. One reviewer describes how the scent has matured alongside them, evolving from a youthful yuppie scent to a subtle, elegant, and classic fragrance.
Obsession has a strong association with the 1980s, an era of bold and experimental fragrances. The scent is an interpretation of the Middle Eastern style of unisex fragrances, bringing a new olfactory experience to Western audiences. The result is a unique blend of spices, woods, and florals that challenge traditional gender norms in perfumery.
While the formula may have evolved, Obsession remains an iconic fragrance. Its ability to evoke strong emotions and memories highlights the power of scent in our lives.
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The scent is considered controversial
Obsession by Calvin Klein is considered one of the most controversial designer perfumes of the 80s and 90s. The scent is characterised as spicy, smoky, erotic, and spectral. Its distinctive smell has been described as "oddly androgynous and creepy child-porn" and innocent, lost and delicately possessed.
The perfume's advertising campaigns have also been noted as iconic, with one user describing them as "absolutely iconic". The scent is also described as sexy, spicy and smoky, with a stunning drydown. Another user describes the scent as witchy, sexy, rich, deep, and unique.
However, some users have noted that the formula and scent have changed over the years, with one user claiming that the current formulation "smells downright bad". The scent is described as having a strong sulphurine opening resembling a hard-boiled egg which has started to rot. Another user claims that the scent has become thinner and cheaper-smelling, with an overpowering green note.
Despite the changes, some users still appreciate the scent, with one user claiming that it is "still very good" and is best layered with gourmand or grapefruit/citrus-dominated perfumes. Another user describes the scent as beautiful, smooth, and deep.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, the formula for Obsession perfume has changed since its launch in 1985. The scent is said to have been dramatically altered.
The perfume is said to have lost its muskiness and amberish notes, becoming lighter and more floral. One reviewer said it smells downright bad.
It seems that the formula has changed for both the men's and women's fragrances.
The current formulation is said to have a strong sulphurine opening, resembling a rotten hard-boiled egg.



















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