Lance Carson
Yves Saint Laurent's Opium perfume has undergone several reformulations since its launch in 1977. The vintage formula is described as having a strong, spicy, and oriental scent with notes of patchouli, myrrh, and vanilla. It is said to be heavier and more bitter than the newer formulations, with stronger incense notes. The vintage formula is also associated with sophistication, luxury, and mystery, evoking powerful memories for those who wore it or encountered it during its original release.
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What You'll Learn
- The vintage formula is described as having a boozy plum note
- The newer formulation is sweeter and brighter, lacking some bitter notes
- The 1990s and 2000s versions were lighter but still had the personality of the original
- The 2009 version is lighter, more jasmine-focused, and less balsamic and incensy
- Vintage Opium bottles can be found on eBay and Etsy
The vintage formula is described as having a boozy plum note
Opium, a fragrance by Yves Saint Laurent, has gone through several reformulations since its launch in 1977. The vintage formula is described as having a boozy plum note.
The original 1977 formula is said to be stronger and more complex, with bitter and animalic notes that made the vintage formula magical. It is described as "the Holy Grail scent" and "the Bitch-Goddess of all perfumes". One user describes the scent as having been their mother's signature fragrance in the 90s and early 2000s, leaving a trail of billowing scent as she ran out of the house each morning.
The newer formulations are described as sweeter and brighter, with a lighter, more jasmine-focused scent, lacking the incense and balsamic notes of the original. While some users still enjoy the new formula, others find it gross and a far cry from the original.
The vintage formula is also said to have a longer longevity, with one user describing how it lasts about 5 hours when they overspray, taking into consideration that their skin usually absorbs fragrances very quickly.
Vintage Opium is described as a spicy, oriental perfume with main notes of patchouli, myrrh, and vanilla. It is said to be very spicy and sexy, with heavier incense notes and no powdery dry-down.
The original formulation with the boozy plum note is a highly sought-after item, with some users expressing their desire to purchase vintage bottles.
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The newer formulation is sweeter and brighter, lacking some bitter notes
The original formulation of Opium perfume by Yves Saint Laurent, launched in 1977, is described as spicy and Oriental. It was followed by reformulations in the 1990s and 2000s, which were lighter than the original but retained its "personality". However, the newest version of Opium is considered by some to be a significant departure from the original formula.
The newer formulation is described as sweeter and brighter, lacking some of the "bitter and animalic notes" that characterised the vintage version. While it still has a strong incense scent, it is lighter and more focused on jasmine, with less balsamic and incense notes. Some reviewers note that while the new version is still enjoyable, it lacks the depth and complexity of the original. One reviewer describes the vintage version as "unapproachable, rich, luxurious, and mysterious", reflecting the sophisticated image it evokes.
The vintage Opium is highly sought-after by perfume collectors and enthusiasts, with some going to great lengths to acquire bottles from the late 1970s to early 1990s. The original formula is described as having a "beautiful fresh-carnation chassis upon which the whole gorgeous mother lode of spices was carried". Some reviewers express disappointment with the new formula, feeling that it does not live up to the iconic status of the original.
Despite the changes, some reviewers have found the new formulation to be enjoyable in its own right. One reviewer mentions that while it took some time to adjust to the new scent, it eventually settled nicely and was "okay". Another reviewer notes that the new version still evokes the signature identity of Opium, although it is lighter and has a different emphasis on certain notes.
Overall, the newer formulation of Opium perfume is characterised by its sweeter and brighter scent profile, moving away from the bitter and animalic notes of the vintage formula. While it may not satisfy those seeking the depth and complexity of the original, it has found its own place in the market and continues to be a notable fragrance.
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The 1990s and 2000s versions were lighter but still had the personality of the original
Opium by Yves Saint Laurent has undergone several reformulations since its launch in 1977. While the 1990s and 2000s versions were lighter than the original 1970s and 1980s formulas, they retained the essence and personality of the original.
The 1990s and early 2000s versions of Opium are described as more complex and deep, with a stronger focus on jasmine, while being less balsamic and incensy. These versions still maintained the sophisticated, rich, luxurious, and mysterious character of the original vintage formulation.
The newer formulations from the 1990s and 2000s are also noted to be sweeter and brighter, lacking some of the bitter and animalic notes of the vintage version. However, they still pack a notable incense punch that satisfies those seeking a connection to the original scent.
The longevity of these versions is also mentioned as a positive aspect, with wearers experiencing good longevity on the skin, even with overspraying. The 1990s and 2000s Opium perfumes are considered to be more adaptable to personal preferences while still evoking the power and nostalgia of the original.
Despite the changes, the 1990s and 2000s Opium perfumes remain true to the original's distinctive character, making them a beloved choice for those who cherish the iconic scent's evolution while retaining its core identity.
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The 2009 version is lighter, more jasmine-focused, and less balsamic and incensy
The 2009 version of Opium perfume is noticeably different from the original 1977 formulation. While the 2009 version retains the essence of Opium, it is a lighter interpretation of the scent, with a greater emphasis on jasmine. The balsamic and incensy aspects that characterised the original formula have been toned down, resulting in a fragrance that is less intense and complex than its predecessor.
The newer formulation is often described as sweeter and brighter, lacking some of the bitter and animalic notes found in the vintage version. The absence of these deeper notes gives the 2009 version a more youthful and playful character, in contrast to the sophisticated and mysterious aura of the original. This shift in scent profile may be appealing to those who prefer lighter, fresher fragrances, while those who cherished the rich and complex vintage formula may find the new version too simplistic or generic.
Despite the changes, the 2009 Opium still evokes a sense of familiarity and remains recognisable as a variation of the iconic perfume. It manages to capture the essence of Opium while adapting to modern tastes and preferences. The jasmine note, which is more prominent in the 2009 version, adds a delicate and feminine touch to the fragrance, softening the overall composition.
The reformulation may be a result of changing trends and ingredients available. Over time, the fragrance industry has seen a shift towards lighter, fresher scents, and the 2009 Opium reflects this evolution. While some loyal fans of the original may mourn the loss of the vintage formula, the 2009 version has found its own audience, appealing to those who seek a more contemporary fragrance experience.
Overall, the 2009 version of Opium perfume represents a significant departure from the original 1977 formulation in terms of intensity and scent profile. By softening the balsamic and incensy aspects and emphasising jasmine, the 2009 version offers a lighter, more approachable interpretation of the iconic fragrance. While it may not satisfy those who adored the complex and mysterious vintage formula, it has carved out its own place in the fragrance world, attracting a new generation of wearers.
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Vintage Opium bottles can be found on eBay and Etsy
Opium perfume by Yves Saint Laurent is a fragrance that was launched in 1977. It has undergone reformulations over the years, with the newer versions being described as lighter, sweeter and brighter, lacking some of the bitter and animalic notes of the vintage formulation.
Vintage Opium bottles and fragrances can be found on eBay and Etsy. On eBay, you can discover various listings for vintage Opium perfume, including Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum, and other formulations. The prices vary, with some bottles priced under $90, while others are listed for over $200. Some listings offer the perfume in its original box, providing an additional layer of authenticity.
Etsy, known for its unique and creative goods, also offers a selection of vintage Opium bottles. While the focus is primarily on the bottles themselves rather than the fragrance, these antique pieces can be a collector's item for those interested in the history of Opium perfume. Etsy sellers often include shipping in the price, making it convenient for buyers.
When searching for vintage Opium bottles or fragrances, it is essential to be aware of potential variations in formulation over the years. The vintage formulation is known for its distinctive and complex scent profile, evoking a sense of sophistication, luxury, and mystery. The newer versions, while still bearing the name Opium, may not capture the essence of the original formulation that has captivated so many.
Reviews and descriptions from fellow collectors and enthusiasts can be a valuable resource in your search. They may provide insights into the specific years of formulation, helping you identify the vintage characteristics you seek. Additionally, comparing prices and conditions of the bottles, as well as the inclusion of original packaging, can aid in your quest for the authentic vintage Opium experience.
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Frequently asked questions
The vintage formula of Opium perfume by Yves Saint Laurent was created in 1977. The original formula has a boozy plum note and is heavier on incense with bitter and animalic notes.
You can find vintage bottles of Opium perfume on eBay, Etsy, and other online reseller platforms.
The vintage formula of Opium perfume is described as having a strong, spicy, and sexy scent with heavier incense notes and no powdery dry-down. It is also said to have a beautiful fresh-carnation chassis upon which a gorgeous mother lode of spices sits.
The new formula of Opium perfume is said to be lighter, more focused on jasmine, and less balsamic and incensy. It is also described as being sweeter and brighter, lacking some of the bitter and animalic notes of the vintage formula.
