Shalimar Parfum Initial Guerlain for women

I can see the similarities between shalimar original and this one, they have the same base, the same smoky dna.But this one is more wearable, not so formal, more clean kind of scent, soapy, sweet and not sensual. I was planning on wearing this one in the summer for a day kind of scent, which is ok, it is proper for that kind of use, but I am wondering if I can pull it of for all the day. There is something annoying to it after a while. Maybe it is too heartless, too noble, with no sentiment. Sophisticated yes, super classy yes, but there is something missing.... I haven;t yet made up my mind, I am testing it again today.
p.s.1 to be fair, once I smelled it for the first time, it really got me, it impressed me, it gave me the idea of a "modern shalimar", but then... Don't know maybe guerlain is not my thing after all. I am always getting excited at first and then I cannot stand guerlain's perfumes (most of them) after a few hours...
p.s.2 I wore it at work and some teenage boy said to me that something is smelling like the shower gel he used to have...that wasnt expected!!!

In the beginning is a vanilla, I love that statement, which surprised me because it is creamier. It reminded me a biscuit to milk. They say the original has shalimar it even more. then appear as bergamot, orange and iris in the same footprint Dior homme. From time to time appears in the vanilla again, I thought unisex, buy for sure!

I dont like very much.I am disappointed, the bottle appears to contain a less common fragrance.

All the flankers for Shalimar do not bother me. I love to sample them, because, Guerlain can make a flanker like none other.

This reminds me of Shalimar but, it seems icier and more musky. On my skin I get mostly iris, bergamot, orange, patchouli, just the smallest hint of the green notes, rose and a blast of powdery balmy musk. Many iris notes tend to go dusty smelling on my skin and this one doesn't.

It has nice lasting power on the skin and the sillage lies close to the skin making this a wonderful intimate scent. I love to wear this one to bed it's icy, yet comforting and relaxing.

Wonderful as Shalimar. This one is more younger, maybe because of the caramel, the vanilla and the tonka bean. I love this smell, and the iris is just so good... Iris is the "elegant touch".
It's my Shalimar for "all the days" and i put Shalimar for important moments.

This is one amazing scent that I am totally hooked to. What a beauty in a bottle. It does have a similarity to original Shalimar but still it is very different. Like its elder sister this is also a bomb. I am so in love with this scent, can't wait to own one.

Comparison between Shalimar Initial and Shalimar Initial L'eau:-

Where Initial is more thicker and denser, L'eau like its name is- light. But saying that L'eau is also a masterpiece on its own. However when you compare these two next to each other, Initial would be thicker.

If you want a light fragrance, which has good lasting power and smells unique, get L'eau. If you like young fragrance but still want a bit of maturity and complex formulation, get initial which is less citrusy (lemony to be precise). Your choice, either way you win :)

The dry down of L'Eau is light and flirty, where Initial is more complicated.

In summary both versions of Initial are AMAZING, one is more floral and another one is more citrusy (just the start).

Initial to me comes in the same category and power as Mademoiselle.

One of the most dreadful perfumes ever created by Guerlain. It's a Shalimar dusted and spoiled with tons of powdery sweets and earthy dirt with an eager but clumsy intention to coax candy-loving childishness to love the original perfume. For me, it is somewhat like caricaturing Mona Lisa to make people love Mona Lisa. What a laughable and futile effort! For so many candy-sweet, fruit-patchoulie perfumes we can find in market nowadays, it is not even a best among them, nothing inspiring but just a witness that Guerlain has fallen from a pioneer in the industry to a follower. However, I'd agree it makes a perfect contrast to the original that is utterly smoother and much more respectable!

Shalimar Parfum Initial is the very first version of Shalimar I'd ever trried on. I have never known about the original before that. Once I tried, it was the love at first sight. I then was searching information about it and the original. And that made me crazy buying decanted of all series of Shalimar as well as the vintage one. Finally, other than this wonderful Shalimar Parfum Initial, I now own 3 bottles of vintage original Sharlimar with different concentrations.

However, among all such series including the legendary original Shalimar, I love Shalimar Parfum Initial the most. It is irresistable. Its smell is so sweet and sophisicated. Because I think I can smell incense in it, it can make me imagine of a beautiful princess living in the very luxury golden palace in India.

The lasting power and silage is great. It can stay on my skin more than 8 hours. The bottle is gorgeous. I really love it!!

The most beautiful advert I`ve ever seen (photos), beautiful Natalia, beautiful flacon, but thats it for me. Tonka, patchouli, iris, vanilla, caramela.
I don`t like licorice, pink marshmallow sweet fragrances and the hint of smoke in PI wont save it. The last Guerlain frangrance i like of the recent production is L`instant, all those newer ones are too candy sweet. I think PI is Guerlain's answer to Chanel's Coco Mademoiselle and i also find it very similar to Prada Prada.

i like it soooo much this one when clams down it gievs me the scent of a hot chick slaiva mixed with trademark lipstick ,,, completely tempting and special.

My husband simply cannot smell. The only perfume that I wear that he is able to identify is mitsuoko, for the most part he obligingly sniffs my wrist and says something is nice or smells like flowers even if ther aren't flowers in the composition. This morning I got up, started the coffee, let the puppy out and sprayed on a sample of shalimar initial. 15 minutes later I climb back in bed he leans into me and says "mmm you smell nice". Unprecedented, he has actually never said this unprompted. Of course being a woman, I don't want to smell "nice"' I want to smell unforgettable, amazing etc, but hey, I'll take what I can get.

I don't plan on purchasing this as I would much rather have the original, but it is a perfectly pleasant fragrance and I may try to get another sample at some point. The advantage of this over the original is that it is not instantly recognizable as shalimar is so one can have a bit of mystery about what they are wearing.

I respectfully disagree with most of you. I love Shalimar Parfum initial and I hate Shalimar. The weight of the smoke and the old old dirt in the original Shalimar made me put it at my no.1 in the dislike list. This version on the other hand is a clean sparkly Shalimar, but still Shalimar. I love it. It smells like a vanillic wood of Iris. It's an empowering smell that gives me confidence.

l like the original much better. Yet for those who are considering to buy this, l have it and here is my opinion: For the first minutes after spraying it, it is too harsh and citrusy, almost like lavender cologne. Then, apprxmtly 10 mnts later, it gets balmy, woody. You start to get a bit of vetiver, caramel and powder. ln time it gets more woody, you almost feel you smell a tree with resins on. A bit masculin as opposed to the original.
l strongly advice it on clean skin, in colder weather and with less action; for it does not like too warm a skin! Not for summer unless you live in a cool arid city.
Men like it more than women do.
Very long lasting on clothes, you need to wash them if you want to apply smth else.
Projection is not great but this is the kind of perfume for which you say: less is more! Let your partner want to inhale it. Great for romantic moments.

Its not bad but i tought that i wanted it because on paper it seemed a stronger version of Dior Homme Intense, but today i had the chance to try it on my skin and the initial blast did remind me of DHI but soon after a bunch of citrus and flower notes appeared and for a second also some old style of aldehides (like the ones that i hate from chanel no.5)like i said at the beggining not bad but to put it with an image: it reminded me those teenage girls that try to wear womens clothes and they overdo make up and are very immature trying too hard to please everyone. that will be a right way to describe this.

75/100

specially went to perfume shop today to try it. sprayed it on my wrist. regreted the second after... on my skin it smelled like an old sweet sweat, mixed with urine. had to go ladys room to wash it off...

I started wearing this version of Shalimar as I was searching for a new signature scent, but felt that the orginial Shalimar was too mature for me. After wearing Initial a few times now, I really love it and view it as a trainer perfume for those wanting to take the plunge and use the original Shalimar. My next purchase shall be SHALIMAR but Initial has been a great introduction to the brand. I also like the story and history behind Shalimar, and hope to wear it for many years to come.

I'm sorry I'm not a fan. To my nose, it smells medicinal, 'oily', and ofcourse there's that gooey vanilla-caramel sweetness...hmm...it does remind me of the smell of eastern hair oils, just with a ton of sugar added.

It really makes me think of herbs and flowers drowning in a weird mixture of thick vanilla syrup and cooking oil.

I suppose I should test this scent again when the weather gets cold, because this is just down-right nauseating on warmer days.

I've never smelled the original shalimar but I once smelled this in a perfume shop because i was attracted to the bottle :P. It smelled too strong so i went home..soo disappointed. i Didn't notice that it had accidently sprayed on my wrist, and wondered what this beautiful smell on my way home, just to realise it was shalimar initial. I made everyone at home smell my wrist after that (he he) and they all commented that it was an amazing fragrance.

I Know some original shalimar fanatics might hate this smell and think it patronising. But I'm sure the younger generation today (like me) will appreciate this fragrance as it classy but holds the youthfulness about it. Something that is not provided by some perfumes out there today

I wish that things like this would stop coming out for sale; messing with Shalimar and scrubbing it completely clean so 16 year olds can wear it truly bothers me.
Messing with the original Shalimar would be like re-painting the Mona Lisa into a modern ideal of beauty.
Shalimar is SUPPOSED to be dirty and in your face; this is not at all like the original, not even close.
A lady in Shoppers Drug Mart sprayed this on me without even asking (I was already wearing the original Shalimar pure perfume) and exclaimed; "Isn't this the sexiest, muskiest, dirtiest and wonderfully warm and yummy perfume you ever smelled?"
Needless to say, I said no it most certainly wasn't and then I thanked the lovely lady for causing me to go home and shower the sickly cloying smell of this pitiful attempt at Shalimar.
Definitely not my cup of tea, but if you want a scrubbed down, squeaky clean, disgustingly powdery, and totally lacking of spice, glamour and depth perfume that's just called Shalimar; then it's definitely something to try.

Adoro i profumi, ormai ne ho tantissimi, ma la mia curiosità mi porta a sentirne sempre di nuovi e scoprire così nuovi amori: l'ultimo di questi è Shalimar Parfum Initial EDP, è meraviglioso, stupendo, dolcissimo, buonissimo, caldo, coccoloso, confortevole, giovane e moderno ma anche classico...non mi vengono più aggettivi! Io amo Shalimar classico, e questo lo ricorda fin dalla prima annusata, ma senza quel qualcosa di acre e di civet che un pò disturba all'inizio, Initial è splendido dal principio alla fine, dura molte ore, lo senti vicino alla pelle così naturale e sofisticato: un capolavoro!!!
ps ho annusato anche Initial l'Eau, ma è troppo agrumato e non mi è piaciuto per niente.
Grazie sempre per le vostre recensioni che mi spingono a curiosare in profumeria e a scoprire queste meraviglie
Dopo una settimana che lo indosso, confermo che è stupendo, un profumo buonissimo da giovane donna

nothing but fragrance industry, this fragrance shouldnt wear name Shalimar. There is nothing like real Shalimar and they should leave it as it is. Cant all be money.

My God this is sooooooooooo awesome, love this to the bone. A man can easily wear this, no problem at all, especially if you like sweet gourmands .... o so good. i had bought this for my wife, but we gonna share this one i tell you :)

The opening is awesome, i love it, my wife doesn't. then the quick entry of the middle notes is soooooo nice and then the dry down.ONE spritz, i c

I agree to Cinsot in
EVERY
SINGLE
WORD.
Nothing more can be told.
Dear friend, you rule!

Started out cute enough. You get the typical lemony- vanilla DNA of the original with hints of leather. Then it became a little candyish, you can definitiely smell the caramel maybe even a little smoky, burnt sugar. At one point, the musty, old library smell of the original peeked through and I thanked Wasser for not straying too far away from Shalimar's roots. Finally... it smelled like a foot :) To be sure, it was the foot of an 18th century courtesan aged about 16, but its a foot nonetheless. Very kinky ;)

I really liked it for the first 30 mins or so when it was warm, with a heavy vanilla aroma. It then faded on my skin to a sickly scent which almost made me feel ill. Such a shame, because I wanted to adore it. It just does not agree with my skin and body chemistry.

I tried this recently and I have to say this is really beautiful! I wish I could purchase this, it is absolutely delectable and is on my wish list for winter...Absolutely LOVE!

This one does not go along with my skin at all, Absolutely Uack, Sharp, edgy and unpleasant. Dissapointed. After 2 hours I couldn't smell it at all om my skin. A not-buy.

Denna funkar inte alls med min hudtyp. Den blir skarp, obehaglig och inom 2 timmar hade den försvunnit helt.

Try twice, still nasty on skin chemistry....

It's nice, but not what I expected... I expected more sweetness and woodiness. On my skin this is MASSIVELY citrusy. The top notes are coming through a lot more than I would like... the other notes are there, but kinda hiding in the background. If the citrus would die down and allow the other notes to shine I would be IN LOVE.

I'm not getting much powderiness at all, it's almost as if the Iris is not existent. I can BARELY smell the vanilla...

The Rose note is very prominent for me, and in a way this perfume reminds me of Narciso Rodriguez for Her with LOTS of citrus thrown into the mix.

I am in love & lust!! Beautiful scent stays close to your skin pure pleasure when I wear this.

I've been told that I smell like sugared almonds when I wear this, which can't be a bad thing.
I love it's powdery notes, though it can be quite heady

I have a love/hate relationship with this perfume.
I like the opening, then I can smell patchouli, and this ruin everything. I never liked Coco Mademoselle for the same reason, patchouli is all that I can smell in my clothes next day.

Very similar to Shalimar's classic EDT. However, for a strange reason I feel the temptation to shower myself with this top to toe. (Something I wouldn't do with a Guerlain for various reasons...) Is it the bottle, or the formulation, God knows:)
Recommended.

Very sugary (far too sweet for me) opening, too much vanilla on my skin which together with iris and vetiver makes this scent smell somehow leathery dirty even I like leather note a lot. After a while the scent becomes mild and powdery, quite nice but original Shalimar "sounds" so much better with my skin chemistry.

Everyone is loving this - and I thought that I would, too. But on me, this smells like Cotton Candy dunked in Bug Spray. It's really sweet and medicinal. Shame.

this is absolutely beautiful.
great iris/vanilla/patchouli combination.
never liked the original shalimar but love this one.
unfortunately it has so poor longevity.
fortunately, the body lotion has the same amazing fragrance and it lasts for the whole day.

What's NOT to say about this perfume? Initial has it all! It's powdery, earthy, gourmand, vanilla, musky, fruity, highly sophisticated. I guess the only thing I don't smell is flowers. That's ok, I still love this perfume madly. I can't wear the classic Shalimar. At times I think Initial is nothing like Shalimar, but then I catch a whiff of Shalimar's essence as I go about my day. The only thing "wrong" with this fragrance is that I wish it was stronger. It's nowhere near the potency of its namesake. I don't know what I'm complaining about though, since I can smell it on myself for hours if I spray a lot, but I want MORE MORE MORE!!! Can you blame me? This stuff's delicious!

But I guess the strength of it is just right so that you won't be walking down the street with a bullhorn obnoxiously shouting, "I'm wearing Shalimar Initial!" It leaves just enough to keep others guessing, to remain mysterious, to remain intimate.

Unique, soft and not cloyingly sweet, still powdery but less antiquated...incredible! Thierry Wasser is fast becoming a favorite nose!!!

This one smells like.....black jelly beans. Which I like..but I'm surprised the notes yield no licorice or anise. I like this perfume, however. It's different and original.

I found this to be a strange & unique scent but some how I liked it.
I like It better than The Origanal Shalimar because its more woody and less powdery.
One day I hope to own this one :)

On me it smells mostly like bug spray. I love the warmth and woods in the background, but the prominent bug spray effect is suffocating.

I’m attracted by this legend love story before smelling this fragrant, fortunately I’m quite happy to have it. Definitely this is not for daily use perfume, the opening is very woody and dry even if you will say a bit “ expired bottle”
It’s really take times let you feel each stage of falcon, from Iris, Lily, jasmine until to touch the base of Vanilla, very essential and concentration of each movement. You need someone who is very close to your skin to feel it, need time and patience to go deeply in the heart of this perfume, I though that not everyone will appreciated it.
The most expensive bottle, but I guess worth it, this is like true love, price is not a issue….. the most important is you do have it , or you had it .

Shalimar Parfum Initial is a very-very strange fragrance on me. I will start by saying that even though it reminds me of the original Shalimar, the resemblance is fairly remote.

Parfum Initial manages to change so many times on my skin during the day, that I would rather call it Parfum Chameleon (than Parfum Initial). At first it smells like Shalimar (the original), but then in transforms into something sugary-powdery, which makes me think of Flowerbomb by V&R. And then patchouli strikes and it changes once again. And that vanilla iris part also reminded me of Dior Homme. Later, other fragrance associations crossed my mind (Gaultier 2, is that you??)

In the end, it began to smell a bit dirty (again, I think it's patchouli to blame).

Nevertheless, I do like this, although, probably less than the original Shalimar. Not bad.

i was really expecting to love this perfume because it has all my favorite notes and i was looking forward to what sounded like a softer version of shalimar (i love shalimar for everyday wear and was looking for a more femininte/romantic version in this) but there was something that did not blend right at all, might just be how it mixed with my chemistry but it just STANK. i was embarrassed to go back to work and did not get too close to anyone in fear they would smell this harshness. it was not the subtle feminine version of shalimar that i had hoped. definitely test before you buy, it is a mess.

Warm, woodsy, spicy, smoky, powdery sweet vanilla goodness. Yes.

This has to be the ultimate winter scent! The green opening notes are a little harsh, but they only last for seconds on me. They are then followed by a sweet, powdery, spicy warmth, with a pleasant hint of wood which effectively stops the scent from being too sickly or gourmandy.

The original Shalimar is way too heavy for me, but this one is a completely different story. Right now, we're down to -26 degrees Celsius (-15F) where I live, and this perfume definitely comes to its own in the cold.

I love this perfume,but i'll not buy it :/
Because the lasting power :(it's not like what i expected

SO POWDERY. LOVE IT

whilst wandering around the fragrance counter of a department store i spotted this bottle and was instantly intrigued. The bottle is absolutely beautiful, it looks like something that belongs in the design of a Hermes scarf, something i value, because in my opinion, if you are going to pay $70+ for a fragrance it damn well better come in a pretty bottle! lol
I sprayed the fragrance on a tester strip and my fascination deepened, it smelled like exotic spices, like an Arabian princess crossing warm desert sands. I wandered around the store like a mad woman holding the sample to my nose. So i bestowed the highest honor one can bestow upon a department store fragrance...i tried it on my wrist.
....it was like a musk-fist was punching me repeatedly in the face, it was SO STRONG! It may be that i have strange body chemistry but this smelled nothing like what it did on the tester, which is a shame because i really liked it. Eventually, after about 3 hours the scent calmed down into something warm, spicy, and enjoyable.. unfortunately the initial musk overload is too much for my tastes

I must say this scent gets and 11/10 for staying power, even after hours of wear and scrubbing my wrist with soap i could still smell it!

this scent did not work for me, however I can see it working for other women, perhaps more mature women, or those whom like musk...and like i said GORGEOUS bottle, wish it had worked out for me!

on second thought, i've never experienced such a perfume with tremendous staying power (even the original shalimar doesn't cling to me like that). and i HATE how i seem to absorb fragrances, even ones that are supposed to be strong.
i'm going to try this again...

OK so I've been wearing this for a few days now, and I have to say that's because I keep being subconsciously drawn back to it. My first wearing was... puzzling. I could smell the baby-powder/crayons and blowsiness which then seemed to be replaced by the strident smoky vanilla of Shalimar (which I love) after about an hour.

But the last few times I've worn this have been completely different. The sense that this was two perfumes bolted together has gone, and that's primarily because of a the Leather-ish or Suede-like quality which holds this whole edifice together.

It starts with the sweetest, most silvery Iris, which is quickly accompanied by the caramel but never allowed to become gourmand. The Drydown is composed of the persistence of the Iris with Patchouli and Tonka and more Caramel with something giving it all a tang, perhaps this is the Vetyver or the Aldehydes. The effect is of a subtly sweet Iris/Leather accord.

The leatheriness continues into the further phases of development, and now the Vanilla comes to the fore, but not in quite so obvious a manner as I noticed at first. There's smokiness in this phase, and the old Shalimar character asserts itself. Again this phase is kept zingy and alive but Aldehydes and Vetyver but less so.

The base does descend into Caramel/Tonka/Vanilla having finally divested itself of all trace of Iris or Patchouli. However once again I'm still feeling this Leather feel even many hours after having first applied.

I'm surprised this is viewed as a very feminine perfume, and I agree with another reviewer who saw a strong similarity between this and Dior Homme Intense. I think this (despite the pinkness and froo-froo bottle) could easily and comfortably be worn by a man.

The longevity is not quite as impressive as I expected, and the sillage is politely modest while remaining enough to envelope one for a considerable period of time.

I think this is a very beautiful perfume, which surprises one with its sophistication and complexity.

love this version much better! powdery, balmy, smokey, vintage and elegant scent. Simply amazing. Purchase coming up!

BETTER THAN THE ORIGINAL . LESS ARTIFICIAL . LOVE IT

It is a lot like the original Shalimar just on a lower, milder tone, maybe more appropriate for daytime/spring and that what I would use it for with pleasure if it wasn't for the first 10-15 minutes of sufferance when I spray it on...I can't take that glue kind of smell so I guess it is not going on my wish list...
So basically I think if you are OK with the starting notes then it is really enjoyable.

I sampled this on paper just because it was there. Its bottle is beautiful with luscious pink perfume inside. I am generally not a fan of Guerlain/LVMH of the past decade. They had literally destroyed so many classics. Was Shalimar next?

I gave a spray and yes, its still Shalimar. However its just another flanker. A good one, but never a replacement. Just what is this flanker? There is no lemon and the opening wrestled with my nose for about 5 minutes. Then it became Shalimar that I have known and loved since childhood.

Its more powdery than the original! Yes MORE. The florals come forward amid lots of orris. POWDERY! There is a peculiar "carrot" note in there throughout the entire composition.

Shalimar's name means sexy. It can be a skin scent if used carefully. This is very loud and might appeal to a younger audience. Its reasonably priced. If you love the original, you will like this.

I really tried to like this one - I really did. I stood in the department store with my friend (who said "nope" right off) for about 45 mins willing myself to "get it". I gave up. I don't care for the original Shalimar either (although I respect the fact that I'm in the minority).
Oh well.

A thing of rich, delicate beauty. Not so much sexy as reflective of the color of the fragrance; light pink bordering on coral - soft, delicate, soothing and captivating. I bought this for my girlfriend who thankfully really likes this particular version of Shalimar.

When I first sprayed this on my skin, I got a brief, short opening burst that smelled like licorice and mint (yes, I know there is nothing like that on the list of notes). Then, unfortunately, it developed into a vague fruity-floral, one of the many that have been released over that past couple of years. There was nothing here to remind me of the original version, and nothing that would make me purchase this or try it again.

For most of my life I rarely wore florals. Orientals were, by far, my favorite fragrance family, and any floral I wore was a floral-Oriental. It's puzzling (yet fun) to me that the past few fragrances I've purchased and loved are florals, but each time I found a new scent to wear, my goal in testing fragrances had been to find a new Oriental for my wardrobe. Therefore, I was so excited about Parfum Initial! The first time I encountered it I was in the Guerlain Boutique in EPCOT (Disney Florida)in July. It was pouring, crashing rain, and sticky-hot, and Initial felt like putting on a cashmere sweater. Howwever, Initial seemed to evaporate after its immediate hug, so I knew I needed to test it in better conditions. I waited until Autumn to try Initial again, here in my home city, and I can't emphasize enough how frustrated I am, either with my nose, my chemistry, or the earth's atmosphere in general. I should LOVE this fragrance. I've admired Shalimar my entire life (as long as its not on my skin, where it inevitably turns musty) and I've wanted a Shalimar of my own ever since I can remember. So I've tried Initial several times...and each time, the predominant note is a strange plastic-ish note that reminds me of a lipstick case melting in a hot car. It makes me mad, and rather horrified at my nose and/or my skin. The new Shalimar bottle is lovely. In any case, this doesn't smell much like the original Shalimar to me, except in very slight hints, and it doesn't smell good on my skin. My search for new Orientals continues, but I suspect with all the crazy new materials regulations, we'll never again experience the depth we once experienced from Oriental perfumes.

I am confused as the opening smells to me like a slice of a freshly baked carrot cake.
Yup. Nothing more, nothing less.
I know how ridiculous it sounds but this is my first thought when I spray SPI.
Then, it turns into more oriental vanilla; iris and caramel are getting more and more prominent on me as the day goes by.
Shalimar Parfum Initial has outstanding longetivity and silage.
Very much noticeable for the first 6 hours.
Then, becomes a little closer to my skin for the next 5 hours or so.
The bottle is lovely and so is the juice.
The only perplexing thing is that opening stage which literally makes me laugh.
Carrot cake...where does that association come from I have no bloody idea :-)

powdery like all new modern powdery fragrances with too much patchouli, but still a good guerlain product!!!smoky like shalimar, less vanilla than shalimar with this modern touch of patchouli! there is what initial is.

The opening is a little harsh I cant tell which notes I smell. I love the dry down, warm, sweet, vanilla and caramel notes prevail. It smells of candy on my skin, it reminds me of Jimmy Choo and Flowerbomb when it dries down. Love it, though not very long lasting..., at least on my skin...

It has that smokey quality that I usually hate in perfumes, but in this one I find it tolerable. It makes it mysterious.

Although I'm not sure I would wear it myself I think it's a good fragrance, it's the opposite of something I would call "cheap smelling". And the bottle is one of my favorites. That soft blue color with the peach-colored juice... so beautiful.

I bought this for Mother this Christmas - after I challenged her about using my Habit Rouge (the 1965 Gents frag from Guerlain). Often times I would notice my Habit Rouge had reduced and sought to track down and apprehend the culprit. Over the course of 5 minutes I followed the waft of vanilla and lo and behold 'twas my own sweet Mama that had been dousing herself and her clothes in her son's signature scent. I found this not only highly irritating, but also disconcerting. Therefore I tasked her with finding a substitute which she duly did in this Shalimar Initial, given that it has some of the flavour of Habit Rouge to it. Please note; I do NOT live with my Mother. I am NOT some kind of paranoid Norman Bates fragrance nerd who obsessively checks his Habit Rouge and blames his poor newly retired Mother for thievin'. Merry Christmas!

First ten minutes, all I can get was a sharp glue "UHU-like" note. Then, God knows how, it metamorphoses into a a sweet caramel-ey smell that I've encountered zillion times before.

I agree with all the previous reviewers about quantity taking over quality, no to mention the extremely high price.

Sorry, this one is a disappointment, though I'm a real Guerlain girl...

if it would not be so expensive it would become my new signature scent, but the price is to high for me. I like this more than shalimar because it doesn't have that alchoolik drink smell at the beginning. It is very very long lasting.

The opening is a little harsh but other than that the fragrance is amazing. I love the dry down, so warm and sweet. Very high-quality fragrance with great sillage and superbe longevity.
Thunbs up!!

I forget how lovely this perfume is.

I have a few fragrances that I try to rotate evenly. I had not worn Shalimar Initail in a few weeks. When I was getting dressed to go out last night I grabbed the Shalimar Initial. I love the initial sharpness, but then this fragrance just settles into a beautiful soft, but fragrant iris.

I look forward to wearing this frequently from now on, so I don't forget the loveliness.

I've never been a fan of the original Shalimar, it always smelt like dusty old books to me (no offense to anybody who loves it), but Shalimar Parfum Initial is everything I wanted the original to be. I have a small sample of it and I will definitely be purchasing a full bottle. To my nose, its a beautiful powdery iris and tonka bean blend resting on a lovely base of vanilla. No trace of that civet I simply couldn't stand in the original. I recommend this to everybody who wanted so badly to love the original Shalimar but couldn't, because this is the Shalimar for us :)

I experienced this days and didn't like. When the seller esborrifou perfume, my first reaction was to depart the nostrils. I felt some mighty fine spice, something like pepper with orange peel. Don't get me ruffled.Refers to a large Indian market of spices, I did not find sexy. The bottle is wonderful!

However, it is a matter of taste. Aconse-lho to try it, suddenly have a different opinion.

Hugs

I love Shalimar and have a beautiful 1960 formulation which I adore and wouldn't swap for anything so I was a definite sceptic when the hype regarding Initial started to filter through. I will admit as much as I was expecting a weak excuse for an ok perfume bolted onto the back of one of the greats when I tried it I was pleasantly surprised. In my opinion they have managed to get this just right, whilst displaying subtle but undeniably recognisable Shalimar traits this has a life of its own. For me Initial fills a gap. On those days when I feel like a hit of Shalimar but I'm not quite up to the task Initial is just less demanding. If I likened both to a pair of shoes then Shalimar would be the unforgiving towering stilettos and Initial would be the kitten heels, still sexy but a more comfortable alternative. 10/10 love it.

Parfum Initial is indeed a close relative of the exquisitely elusive Shalimar worthy of recognition and praise in its own right as a stand alone fragrance in my opinion.

I am glad my capacity to perceive is not hindered by an incessant compulsion to compare this to that. Sure we all do it at times but sometimes we can throw the baby out with the bath water when we obsess about the original inspiration for a current version.

Moving on. May I commence my review by stating THIS is heavenly. Fairy princess heavenly!

SPI opens with the best powdery vanilla parts of Shalimar EDP then morphs into a glucose jellybean centre aroma inciting joyous innocence far removed from the daily grind.

I adore this aspect of Shalimar Parfum Initial. Its hazy efflorescence is sooo comforting.

After bouncing buoyantly in jellybean land my mind, body and soul are taken on an excursion through Thierry Wasser's creative genius. This Nose has stayed loyal to the brand without plagiarising it and enhanced the centerpiece theme with flair and confidence.

Some may be tempted to describe this feat as diluting it somewhat to make it more accessible to a younger demographic. Maybe? Who cares? I certainly don't.

My nose does not care for marketing strategies, only smell and Shalimar Parfum Initial smells wonderful!

I'm a fan of the original Shalimar (the very personification of French perfumery and a culture in itself) and I must say, I was quite skeptical about this new release and didn't quite know what to expect. It therefore gives me great pleasure to say it smells beautiful.

The astonishing oily complexity of the original Shalimar base has been tempered and simplified somewhat and a lovely rosy, powdery quality now resides in the top notes along with something sweet and vaguely fruity.

Okay, it's not as complex, mysterious or multifaceted as the original but it is a successful modernization that might win Guerlain some younger fans. I like it.

Hhhmmm. First of all, let me say that I LOVE the original Shalimar. I've had it in the past, when younger, and didn't appreciate it. I have recently had a new-found adoration for it. But this Initial... I really liked it "initially," but after about an hour, I'm a little disappointed. I thought that this was a lovely side note to the original, perhaps unique and worthy to stand alongside it's stately vintage cousin, but the dry down is becoming a little more of what's typical in fragrance currently - dangerously close to a floral/fruity/oriental. On a lighter note, I do think it's worthy of being a cousin of Shalimar, the two smell similar in the initial phases to me. I would test it again, however, to make sure that my assessment is consistent.

To start with, i hate, hate, hate Shalimar! It gives me a headache and i smell worse than my granny.
However, I decided to give this one a go the other day in Debenhams. I was looking for a vanilla basenote and the shop assistant pointed in its direction. Bottle looked much better, pinkish not sickly yellow and the blue tassel added an elegant Arabic touch (the name of Shalimar was ALL i ever liked in the original perfume).
Well, trying this was love at first...smell! Absolutely gorgeous, very sofisticated and special, and on my skin it has a very nice leathery smell. Very recognizable!
Was so chuffed with my new discovery i ended up buying the gift set (40ml perfume and body lotion) at a bargain price of £37!
I would recommended to any sex siren over there!:))

ADCount is so right. I have been adoring the Dior Homme fragrances for ages, stopping at the Dior counter to inhale them and to imagine that if a man that smelled like Dior Homme put his arms around me, I'do anything, anything... And now I don't have to imagine. I have my own fragrance that gives me that strong warm plesure feeling, and I don't need to have a man to get it. Perfecto!

Tried it today and while it is OK - in my opinion, it doesn't hold a candle to the original Shalimar..not even close. I'll keep my money for something old and amazing or something truly new- not a diluted version.

This really smells similar to Dior Homme Intense!!!

I own both and I'm sorry but other than the color of the juice I see hardly any similarities between Shalimar Initial and Coco Mademoiselle

Here I am : I finally tested it ! ^^

The top notes are quite similar to our Adored Original one.
But, soon, there is something that was intriguing my nose, like some kind of "pine" note : I guess that's because of the green notes they added to the Original citrus top notes.

What about the heart notes, well, I was quite surprised : that sort of "pine" note kept disturbing me but the way the fragrance evolves remembered me of something I already sniffed before.
Vetiver made his entrance, enhancing that green "pine" note that I don't really like.

And here we are, oh yes, I put my finger on it : "Coco Mademoiselle" is in the place !!
I can definitely see why : looking at the notes, you will notice that both fragrances share a lot of notes.
They are indeed constructed the same way : soft (but not sweet)citrus top notes, soft and common floral heart notes (rose, jasmine) and the same taming down(vetiver, patchouli) and soft powdery notes (vanilla, Tonka bean).

But "Shalimar Initial" has a softer drydown than "Coco Mademoiselle" : I can smell soft talcum notes, not unpleasant (I guess it's the association of Tonka bean and vanilla). But these soft talcum notes are tamed down in comparison of the luxurious and glorious Original ones : I think that's the effect of the caramel note (don't get me wrong : I do adore sugary and sweet notes).
But, again, "Coco Mademoiselle" is still there around the corner.

To conclude, what came to my mind quite quickly is that this "Initial" version of the Queen Shalimar is a Shalimar that wanna be Shalimar but that does not really succeed in it since it is too faraway from the Original one and way too similar to "Coco Mademoiselle" : not a bad fragrance but not what you would expect a Shalimar to be. They could have chosen an other name for it, but not "Shalimar".
Unlike "Eau de Shalimar", which pays tribute to the Original but has at the same time its own character.

Last but not least, I happened to see the advertisement of "Initial" on the television and found it rude : a naked young lady !!!!
I mean, come on, a little bit of respect : it's Shalimar, steady on !!!!

In a few words, I would say that if "Initial" is not for itself a bad fragrance (by no way is it repulsive), it is definitely not what you would expect something called "Shalimar" to be : its huge similarity with "Coco Mademoiselle" (during the heart notes stage, I nearly find them to be twins !!!!:-O And that has absolutely NOTHING to do with the color of the juices !! LOL !!) is disappointing and I can defintely catch the way this version is directed to "easy" customers.
Hoping we are not gonna smell this version of "Shalimar" at every corner, worn in a way that would make the Original one feel ashamed ....
"Initial" is to "Shalimar" exactly what "Mademoiselle" is to "Coco", positive and negative features all included ....

I do not really like flankers or versions. This time, although, I think this Parfum Initial is quite good, modernized Shalimar. I believe vintage was the best of course, and I am really hurt by reformulations and note restrictions. As to, so many wonderful gems I haven't tried. Well, I tried Shalimar, that we all can find in stores nowadays and even wrote an award winning review :D
So. This basically [notewise] is far from the original, however they tried to make it Guerlain and hit into form of a-like. It doesn't have cedar/bergamot top instead, It was soft creamy bergamot. It wasn't too citrusy, but grassy. In fact it smelled similar to Acqua di Parma bergamot cream. As time goes by, this time top lasts pretty long time too if compare to other modern fragrances. Composition expands with some floral notes, iris and I clearly catch caramel.

Lasting power is great and it kind of has really good sillage. It fills all the room.

~Great fragrance that deserves to be a permanent version alongside original.

At first I didn't like it... But then I understood this is one of the best scents ever made. It can only be a hit or a miss: a classy and really amazing, one-of-a-kind woman would really rock this. Powdery but still really fresh, seducement in a bottle. Sort of like a freak in a good way: really weird, but that's the main idea.. give it a try!

Update: I didn't even mark it as 'love', 'like' or 'dislike' because your skin's chemistry is very important here. The scent is really watered down, and it only makes an amazing impression when mixed with someone's skin and smelling nice! :) So I can also state that this is a very personal scent.

At first, this smelled like molding clay from art class or something.
I was like, how can any perfume this popular smell like this?
BUT! It fades into a soft feminine classic scent. Very much like shalimar but lighter and without the spicy. So I do like it.

oooooh WOW, I just mixed 'Initial' with Mariah's 'M', adding some smokey incence, marshmellow,a little more patchouli, tiare flower, and gardenia.. ...and WOWZERZ!! we have LiftOff!!!! beautiful

sooo basically we have shalimar, minus the citrus lemon and organge... taken away a little bit of rose and jasmine(but barely) vanilla, have added marshmellow, tiare flower and gardenia... idk.. but I like this better than the original shalimar as well as shalimar 'initial'

I'm going to purchase a really cool vintage bottle and package this stuff :D

It feels like Shalimar edp but a slightly more playful version :D

I'll keep the exact amounts of the mix..my secret.. so no one will have the same exact one, lol

Shalimar Initial is an interesting version of Shalimar.
Before testing I wonder if there was any need for a "new" Shalimar.
After testing I thought it's a good thing.
I'm a long time admirer of Shalimar, but Shalimar doesn't behave as a sweetie on my skin.
Parfum Initial starts on my skin in a completely different way, brighter but rounder and more fruity. Then it settles down and it definetely recalls original Shalimar, maybe it is Shalimar.
Another mystery from Guerlain: not the same, not entirely another one.
The scent itself is very pleasant, powdery, fruity with some floral notes.
It's longlasting and for sure it doesn't lack the typical complexity of the Guerlains, but made more approachable.
I would have liked to smell it on another chemistry, but it's impossible to spray this on my bf. I cannot hold him still!
On my chemistry after 1 hour or more it settles down to that typical familiar smells of Shalimar: headshop incense stick. Not a bad thing, if you like the kind.
It makes me smell like a rich hippie gypsy future-teller with a crystal ball, LOL!
And at the same time it is modern and wearable and maybe also winks at Burlesque type with feather and the rest.
Definetely interesting and a must try.
Compared to original is much less musty. Not lighter in intensity, but rounder on the angles.
If Shalimar smells pungent or musty on you, try Parfum Initial.

It opens with green notes and the orange very fresh. The orris kicks in and gives its powdery touch. When it dry's down the caramel and tonkabean combine with musk. Its stayingpower on my skin is 6 hours. Its not girly but freshly sweet and its a joy to wear it. I love it and recommend it.

I love the original Shalimar, so I thought I would try Initial.

Honest verdict: It smells a bit like Tresor.

In regards to the old Shalimar, the "underside of his mistress" aspect of Guerlain fragrances has has been removed and been replaced with a peachy frutiyness. Thick, powdery iris stands in for oriental resins. The vanilla/citrus aspect remains the same and Wasser has thankfully refrained from cleaning up the bitterness of the citrus or reputed impurity of the vanilla grade. The result is a fragrance that is much more complicated and effortlessly sophisticated than the vast majority of fragrances aimed at my contemporaries.

Long wearing, smoky and syrupy sweet in equal measure, slightly bitter with massive silage. Great.

But the old dame is still better.

I just adore the big nasty original Shalimar, but you have to put on microscopic amounts to avoid forcing everyone in to room to smell you. Shalimar Initial (after the first 5 minutes) is much more polite.

It starts out with a brief explosion of peach/grass/citrus/spices but quickly tamps down and does not dominate the air space. After 30 min. it is very much Shalimar's kin. Inital has the same yummy vanilla wafting around bergamot and incense, it just lacks that abrasive tang that many liken to toilet bowl cleaners. Inital has the complexity of the original without the "In Yo Face" quality. It is sweeter, less intrusive.

OK, here's the test: If you order white wine because you don't want your teeth to stain, Initial might be your scent. If you drink red wine and don't care about your red teeth (or even if your bra strap shows) it's Shalimar - straight up and original.

faceon, my grandma smells more beautiful to me than any man-made perfume :p

But to be honest, I'd wear Youth Dew, and quite happily too, before I wear this one. This one really does smell like traditional hair/beauty-oils that old-ladies and traditional village girls use in the East, it's not a bad thing, I just find it weird, and somewhat amusing to find that sort of scent bottled, refined, 'vanilla-ized' and sold for alot of money. I have a hunch that those 'grandmas' or great-grandmas, actually unknowingly inspired the formula for the original Shalimar back in the day.

Now how is that being critical :D

I tried it a couple of times and aquired the taste for it. I cannot wear the original, as it if suffocating me. This version is fresher, more citrusy, lighter and crispy. The longer I wear it th more I want. It is seductive and innocent. There are some echos of the original Shalimar, but it is modern version. Maybe as in case of Chanel 5 Premiere, it is addressed to those who are not ready for the big bang of original versions.
Definetely worth a try, lasts approx 10 hours on my skin.

I had a strange experience with this one, it dries down to smell like burnt butter on my skin. But this may not be of much relevance to all of you because the 'real' Shalimar also turns strange on me. I'll have to stick to other classics like Samsara

I ordered this wanting it to be a softer version of the wonderfull shalimar..it is no way in comparison to the original,it is a light version an my skin drinks it in an within the hour i cant even smell it on myself,never mind anyone else hoping to catch a whiff.I dont like these similiar perfumes to the original.The original shalimar is in a class of its own, i was glad i only bought the sample of this.I wont be buying a full bottle.

Shalimar and Shalimar Initial. Not to offend anyone...if you like one you will like the other...no not me and maybe not others either.

I love the original Shalimar but I can't stand this one. I bought it without smell it first, I wish I had. In the beginning it smells a little of Shalimar but after that it's just strong, sweet and cloying, nothing like Shalimar at all. I sold my bottle.

My opinion...try Shalimar Initial before you buy it.

While the original Shalimar, though sexy, is somewhat intoxicating and headache-inducing; this one preserves the luxurious scent that made Shalimar a hit, but is lighter, more playful and versatile. It's the perfect fragrance for a younger woman, enigmatic and confident.

Recently, I tried both the original Shalimar in one hand and the Initial on the other, so as to decide which one to buy. The comparison was hard. Very very hard to decide. Well, Initial was fruity, sweet, while original Shalimar after 10 miniutes became smoky and very leathery. I waited for half an hour so as to dry down and compare again, and the impression was the same. Fruits and vanilla on one hand, leather and vanilla on the other. I bought the Initial, because it was an easy choice to wear it on the office, but I am sure, that soon I buy the original one too, for my evenings... Yes, I beleive there are common middle notes to these perfumes. So, If you like one, you will like the other too. The Initial on my skin, was not so sweet and candy. I smell peach, aricot, orange, patcouli and vanilla.

Really classy is the way how they shook old Shalimar carpets and presented smth piquant: the less I care about the original one, the more I like the old-fashioned feeling about the new one. Actually, that's what makes it outstanding and exclusive in the market: it doesn't smell similar to any newcomers and seems unique, more like one of a kind rather than dated.
Firstly, it's a bit strange - read 'unpredictable' but at least interesting. Then it turns into smth powerful and familiar (the old Shalimar kind of projection). And finally the drydown is a bit edgy yet sensual pleasure (some ingredient of a Greek 'Fresh line' bath ball is there).
Definitely not for everyone, but, as stakes are high, with the right chemistry jackpot the impression it can give is the sophisticated 'wow'.

Two of my colleagues almost choked when they approached me and opened the windows immediately. And I didn't put much on my skin at all! I guess it's too heavy on my skin.

Addicted!!!

I absolutely agree with the review below me that this is like a better version of Prada Candy! I absolutely love it! I find it extremely wearable. At first I didn't think much of it, but then I found I was craving the scent. Luckily I had another sample so I re-assessed my initial thoughts. I'm not very good at describing notes, but on my skin this is sort of a fresh caramel floral, with beautiful sillage and great staying power. I definitely get the Dior Homme comparison (which is good cos I've always loved Dior Homme)This is going to be my next purchase hopefully. It's definitely signature-worthy. Very classy and just different enough to stand out from the crowd.

I like it a lot! It first smells like my Grandma's lipstick. Then slightly smokey but sweet, not sharp like the original version. Less complicated and grown up. I would say it's a sweet floral which turns into a musky, rosy sweet amber when it dries down, like a better version of Prada Candy (if PC had any strength). The woman I picture when I smell it, wears pin up make up, bob cut blonde hair, a blouse with pussy bow, wide leg trousers and high heels and her moves are elegant, a bit like in slow motion...
I tried it this morning and it's now 8h later and I can still smell it on my hand. I think that's going to be my next signature scent! :)

I am not into fragrances like classic Shalimar: I hasn't even tried it, reading about its notes and reading reviews saying about strong leather note (I dislike leather).

Today I've tried Shalimar Parfum Initial. My first thought was: "I'm glad I haven't bought it!" but then... I must admit, the perfume isn't my style, but it is very, very good. And now I suppose that Kate Moss was inspired by one of Shalimars in promoting "Velvet Hour".

Shalimar started kind of light and with noticeable note of caramel, then it started to get more power and became very powerful. After about more than half of an hour I started to sniff smoke. All the time I can sniff something like a leather note, but thankfully it isn't leather like in Kelly Caleche, it's softer.There'a also vetiver, patchouli (but in a good measure), iris, tonka bean and musk detectable, orange too. Overall feeling is dark, sweet, smokey, even a bit dark cranberry-like, more oriental than floral chypre. Better for night, during day it makes me feel a bit dirty. Makes an impression. It's GUERLAIN, I mean a brand that makes really excellent, classy fragrances and it doesn't let me down again.

I'm surprised actually that this Shalimar made such a good impression on me! Thumbs must be up! I won't be wearing this because of the leather but it really makes an impression and is well done.

Bottle: kind of niche, I don't like it, but it fits what's inside.
Projection: good.

P.S. I can't stop sniffing my hand :D
P.S. 2. In the end I got tired and uncomfy by the fragrance... not my cup of tea but it will find many fans.

oh wow, what can I say, I absolutely adore this perfume! There really isn't anything like it in the market right now, nothing that it reminds me of too much. It does have an initial strong blast of iris, and I swear my sniffer picks up a licorice note that later tames down it's such an amazing scent.

And although I do pick up iris, it almost reminds me of Juliete has a gun's 'not a perfume', there is something in this this that is highly addictive, and with it's ever soft floral it really just grabs me, and wont let go

I think this is such a brilliant classic all on it's own.

To Theirry, I love you, nearly every parfume you creat I find to be irresistable! And 'Initial' is no exception. This might just be my new signature scent! I love it that much, and how refreshing tofind this gem at my local mall and to not smell a thing at all like it's mass marketed, copy cat neighbors.....

What I also love about this, is that it's simple but not too simple, simple enough to layer with other perfumes but complex enough to stand on it's own. Personally I like to wear this by itself for the day time, then layer it with a sprits of Kim Kardasians original frag or even euphoria.. and wow..lol, just amazing how well so many perfumes that I own balance out nicely with this too make a deeper sexier more night perfume..

omg.. i just love love love this .. thank you!!!

Perfect scent.My favorite perfume!!!

I love this one so much. It's so classy. Not at all what I normally go for. This is powdery and a bit snobby. Great perfume.

BUT be carefull. I sprayed a bit too much today (4 sprays) and it annoyed me the whole day. I wasn't happy. It even made me sick (nausea).... I was thinking: this isn't a perfume for me (after spending lots of money)... But if you spray 2 times (max!!) then this is a good perfume. ONLY in wintertime!!

I prefer shalimar to ths one. It's quite nice but not for me. It's just Shalimar in a sweeter form.

I totally agree with the review below and at first sniff, i was definitely sckeptick (haha i dont know how to write this word for my life) but after an hour i would say, it reminded me more and more of "flowerbomb" weird i know. You would never ever expect this at first sniff but let me tell u that this fragrance changes on your skin and that it lastttssssssssss and sticks on your clothes. I would say this is recommended to try and that this is another example of how we should not judge a book by its cover.. or first page for that matter ;)

Finally, I don´t like it at all :-(
I´m sorry Guerlain, but Shalimar is strong Iris, it smell as strong aftershave in me.During 3 days I was trying but it is awfull!!

Shalimar's ghost finally available in Athens!Marketing hits again,this time trying to give Shalimar a youthful appearance.Shalimar Parfum Initial,starts with a blast of sharp iris,hitting you straight at the nose!For a few minutes,it reminded me of Hermes Hiris opening,strong iris and nothing else.I miss the zest lemon opening of classic Shalimar. Time passes,iris is still there but not so loud,caramel vanilla on the stage now.Where is the sophisticated smell of Shalimar?Where is the high quality?Seem to swallowed up by marketing and advertising.Lasting power is average.

I was not expecting a lot from this business of monkeying about with a classic in order to update it. I thought that it would probably mean diluting the perfume and denaturing it frankly. Even the pink colour boded no good, as if Guerlain were chasing the teenage fashion for light bubbly fruity notes.

However the opening is really promising, a lovely blast of very pleasant sweet florals. But it's short-lived. Then the perfume melts down into ....guess what? The same old thick fat Shalimar. So it tries to be the same and different, but it's two unrelated parts, a new bit stuck on in front, and then the same old finish.

I can't see the point of it. If you like Shalimar, then the opening is just a pretty diversion. If you don't like Shalimar, this version will not be different enough to convert you.

I tested it today, I am not liking it, to me smells a little medicinal.
I forgot to mention a big blast of Iris at the initial spray.

This is different from the original Shalimar (maybe sweeter) , but I just dislike it the same. It's so very strong and nauseating that I cannot really tell you the difference in more detail, because I wanted the scent to be as far away from me as possible.

When I spray it,the fragance is fresh strong,after 15 m. it smeel me as aftersave,is very disagreeable and strong for me,I don´t know if is the Iris or Vetiver.More later the fragance is sweet and warm,I love it,but if I want used it, I have to spray 30m.before!!
I don´t think that it is a flanker,this is other diferent fragance,but Guerlain had made one mistake, name it Shalimar.
Long lasting 9/10 h.

Well,the original Shalimar is warmer, sweeter, while the Initial is woody, powdery,earthy like fragrances that contains iris. Shalimar is round, mild, soft, cosy and happy-hearted, the real essence of feminity. Initial is more modern, more sophisticated,and slightly spicy. At first sniff they are two completly different perfumes, but after a while you can feel the heart of Shalimar EDP in Initial, as it becomes softer and milder.
I love both!!!!

Although it is lighter, but the lasting power is excellent.

It is the lighter version, more airy. Less leather, incense and civet. A younger version of the original that can be wear on hot day without turn nasty like other autumn/winter perfume.

Could someone plaese explain to me what are te differences between this "Initial version" and the original one of my adored Shalimar <3 ?

Looking at the notes, this version could be interesting but I am also afraid that it could be a poor "modern mass younger targeted" version ....

Is it worth it ?

First of all, it was apparently the perfumer's niece who asked for an updates scent :)
But who cares? Come on ladies, that story is just a big marketing ploy made up to compell us to buy this new frag, no more, no less. At least Chanel's No 5 Eau Premier marketers didn't make up a silly tale about Jaque Polge's niece or cousin asking him for a modern No.5!

I heard Jean Paul Guerlain made up Shalimar Initial for his granddaughter, who ask him to. She liked the original scent, but it was too heavy, serious and feminine for a young girl.

New Shalimar still has the mystery of the original scent, but became more girlish and modern. It's still classical one, but now it's more stylish. It's still feminine, but now it has more sex appeal. I love it! Perfect for cold winter evenings.

My eyes rolled when I sniffed it. This is genuine, premium. The iris quality is obviously niche indeed.
This starts out so bizarre on woody smoky oriental floral and gradually floral stream enhances. Detecting notes is so hard cause it's so well mixed and united.
There's a sparkling undertone that reduces its serious overwhelming spirit and prevent being old lady stuff. It makes it young, mystic, eastern and luxurious like a big uncut red topaz.

I did a blind by on this. I love the originally Shalimar and I thought I would love this one too but I don't. It's so strong, sweet and cloying and doesn't smell good at all. All I got was headache. I sold my bottle.

I am so happy that I have the original Shalimar and that I can wear it.

i just bought Shalimar PI yesterday- without having sensed it on any i know. I took a wild choice, and i'm in love with this sexy, sophisticated scent. I find it also a little masculine, which i just adore about it. I cant wait to spray a little on me when i go out tonight.

Ok , here is about beeing honnest right ? So i have tried it once AGAIN , on my skin this time , and i must admit it is not THAT bad ! I still dislke the first minutes though , and the caramel note is so slow to show up . And if this scent can persuade the young girls to discover classic perfumery , then that's good !

Ah! Finally I can welcome Shalimar into my perfume family. I so badly wanted to like the original Shalimar on my skin but it just did not work out well on me at all. I was in denial for months about the original blend but finally came to grips and admitted that it made me ill. I am very happy to see that Initial works well for me. I’m a vanilla, candy, sweets girl and though this is nowhere near anything sweet like pink sugar (too much for me) or JS’s Fancy it is the perfect sophisticated blend for a woman that loves vanilla and some spice to boot! Bottle is beautiful and I’m in love. I sprayed this on my coat sleeve about 15 hours ago and it still gives off the most beautiful scent. I want to say it's similar to Coco Mademoiselle. I don’t smell the caramel outright but I’m sure that’s the note that sets off the vanilla sweetness just right (in my opinion) I’m sold.

This one reminds me of Candy Prada, in sense of sweet carmel notes. However, it is much more complicated than sweet Candy. The iris is very elegant, yet not soapy but gives an airy feel. I like the leather notes, kind of earthy and warm and slightly floral, very well balanced.
The longlasting power is amazing. Give it a try.

only i can say ...uhmmm :) goorgeous , something classic but whith a new touch modern and cute sweet caramel in the oriental mix now more creamy and yummi.

Just another oriental... I sampled it today and thought Hmm! Reminds me of... so many others. But most of all reminds me of Dior Addict, another Thierry Wasser's creation. Talking of whom, now that he is the chief nose at Guerlain, I am definitely safe from spending my money on Guerlains any time soon (excluding here the older creations). I mean, this man is all about rose and/or vanilla...

I remember Stephanie of Bourjois.They made it about 20 years ago. This is realy very ,very similar scent.

At first, a citrus light breeze, followed by a leather feeling, embraced with vanilla and reinforced by the caramel notes.
It is wonderful.

I've never really sampled much of Guerlain's perfumes because I thought they were always too strong for me; nice but overpowering. I sampled this one a while back and I really liked, but I didn't buy it. While I found it warm and somewhat spicy on me, it struck as a special occasion/evening frag. My hubby and I don't get to go out much because of our work schedules and we are both students too. So, needless to say, if I bought it, it would probably go to waste. Maybe one day, I'll purchase it because it's a really nice frag and it is tailored more to the youthful audience as other reviewers noted. Also, I do have to agree with companies being too competitive and not really spending much time developing true classic perfumes. I always thought perfumery was like artwork; it takes time to develop a true masterpiece.

I like this alot, it's a nice version of the original Shalimar. It's younger and the bottle is very nice. Great for on my vanity. I don't have it yet but it's on my wishlist. The first spray is really citrusy and then I get the burnt sugar. I like that!

I am writing a new review on this fragrance.

It is lovely. It is radiant, rosy and fresh. It took me a while to fall for this scent and when I did I went head over heels! Just gorgeous. I love the original Shalimar, I truly do, but this is just more wearable for the everyday.

I went out with a friend and sprayed this on and he said 'yuck.' I do not understand what is going on in his mind. I guess this is not a man magnet. That being said, this is one of this fragrances that helps you to radiate confidence and that helps you to feel so womanly, sexy and alluring.

I recommend this fragrance to all women. It is not a watered down version of Shalimar. It has an air of the original scent while being its own composition. The dry down of the original Shalimar EDP is very similar to the opening in PI. This is very ideal for me personally because the best part of Shalimar is the dry down!

Sillage = very good
Longevity = unprecedented - I have not had a fragrance ever last like this
Overall 10/10

Bien fait, Guerlain.

C xx

I sampled this one recently. My nose got a Rochas Femme vibe from the Shalimar Parfum Initial. There are very similar accords in these two perfumes, in my opinion.
Pretty scent. Different because Shalimar Initial has that "antique" smell to it, especially compared to many of the recent years mundane fruity-floral releases. The bottle is nice too. The color of the juice looks aged like an antique liquor too.
I already have Rochas Femme and Eau de Shalimar so I won't be buying the Initial. But if you are new to the Shalimar heritage, then give it a whirl.

I am very disappointed about this. Here we go again to have another Thierry Wasser's simple-minded, headache-inducing sugar candy composition to interpret classic Guerlain. Unfortunately, I have never found impressed by any work he did for Guerlain so far (except magnificent Quand veint la pluie which is meant to interpret Apres L'Ondee). Will this sugar cane version do attract the naive young as Guerlain may have expected? I am not sure. But I still think the original is much much better and full of emotion which is completely absent in this new flanker. It seems to me that Guerlain is ruining their heritage by lots of meaningless flankers. Too bad!:(

Well Done Guerlain!
Wearing this at night sometime (early Fall) but looking forward to a lot more of Initial in a cold winter.
Starts rather heavy but nice as a powdery musk,Tonka bean and caramel. Dry down/sillage is more a creamy vanilla that stays fairly close.
Reminds me of vintage Mitsouko; that shadow of a wonderful soap smell? but this new one does not linger alone, for as long, in a space, after I have left.
Initial lasts and lasts on my skin and I find it pleasantly different from the original Shalimar.
A Beautiful bottle! A Beautiful perfume!

Beautiful soft citrus opening... very approachable to me where Shalimar can scare some away. There is a sweeter character as well that carries throughout, softening Initial's attitude and keeps her from being the bitchy little sister to her more mature counterpart. I adore them both, each in their own way. Afterall, it's family, right?

Ok it took a while for me to make my mind up on this one. It is a great addition to my collection.
It opens strong, baby powder! it settles down beautifully on my skin. I smell the citrus but not sharp, just a hint and then the warmth of the very slight musky vanille and Tonka.
It is a daytime perfume, just right for an autumn day, clean but with cashmere cardi softness.
Don't compare it, it is a sheer joy to wear.

De opening smells like powdery limes to me, very shalimar-ish but still different. It gets a bit different than the original in the middle part, it gets more candy-ish. But in the drydown there appears something that on my skin smells extremely nasty. Pfff. Everytime that chemistry issue! I guess I am forced to prefer the original Shalimar (need to test that again now, checking if it's really my skin problem with the whole Shalimarline or just with Initial)

This smells exactly like - Shalimar! I can't tell the difference. I was surprised how old-fashioned this re-make is, I was expecting something modern, and this is completely retro. I don't pick up any vanilla, only a heavy, thick, musky chypre, mixed with the patchouli. I think this is for a mature woman, and it may be an attempt to simply make Shalimar trendier and more appealing to a younger generation. The bottle is attractive and feminine, but the scent remains the same.

Although I do love original Shalimar this new one and I do not get along. All I can smell is TM Alien, which I hate. No sweet, soft vanilla on my skin at all. As Alien lists only 3 notes I can't even hazard a guess at what note, or combination of notes affect my skin (or nose) to make this horrible, sour, mouldy fruit smell. Such a shame :-(

All I smell is burnt hair and brown sugar. Sorry, but this is a NO for me. The original is better.

Chrismriley: Haven't try Jimmy Choo's perfume, but agree on the drydown. I sniffed most of the world's classic perfume, does smells like old man smoking.
Bouquet: Agree. Sniffing on the drydown tester slip, does smell little bit of glass cleaner. It turns out is the smell of the bergamot. No wonder nobody eat bergamot.
Sofababe: You have to wear it, take a walk, sweat a little, then you get the vanilla scent.

Came back after reading some articles about this perfume. Tonka Bean gave the smoking smells. It was used in ciggrate & cigar. While the glass cleaner smell is from the white musk.

Does anyone else detect a "Windex" (glass cleaner) note?
Still, I like it. It's Shalimar's answer to Chanel No. 5 Eau Premiere, which I also like.

A mixture of young and mature perfume which is multi-dimensional...

0-15 mins - Oranges, sticky, 99% the same as Jimmy Choo, young scent, 20's ages. Projection good

15 mins - 3 hours - Scent takes a different path to Jimmy Choo and goes mature. Bowl of fruit. Projection approx 6 inches. Unisex

3-5 hours - Drydown, spicier, sour, foul smell, a little fag ash, old man, smoking jacket, stale curtains. No projection

5-8 hours - How amazing, drydown changes back to start of scent, yummy and sticky oranges...

Not bad, I would wear it, but I think there are a lot which are better

After long wait and finally Shalimar Initial arrive at Isetan. The bottle design alone is gorgeous! The perfume, it's the ideal smell of the modern Shalimar. No strong smell of leather and civet notes.
Top notes: Sharp sweet citrus
Heart notes: Florals smell
Bottom notes: Vanilla mixture of powdery bagamot
Although Shalimar Initial is reformulated, the signature smell of the Classic Shalimar is still there, instead of leathery & incense smell, it is more citrus & floral smell. It will be my must have perfume.
About the lasting power for testing on my skin is average 6 hours.

A modernised update to Shalimar, the initial notes on me me were almost aniseed in nature before fading into a soft seductive scent.

i am a fan of strong scents but the original shalimar was a bit too strong and sophisticated! i love what they did to this scent it's still has the shalimar euphoria but in a more modern softer way, i loved it from the first sniff and it replaced the old shalimar in my collection.

It smells posh and plastic...
It has somewhat got a Coca-Cola vibe that I am not sure if anyone else can detect... Hmmm...
The bottle suits the fragrance... The smells has a "glass" quality if you know what i mean...

Really was waiting to smell it...but I have to say it's just nothing original, is not bad but it's not special, new, outstanding...for me it smells a bit like Flowerbomb which I don't like at all...then probably if I would like Flowerbomb I would like Shalimar Initial a lot!

Watered down Shalimar Eau de Cologne with the rotten fruit note of Insolence. Poor longevity, thankfully.

Does anyone else notice a top note of wax lips in this?! Doesnt smell in a bad way, just adds an initial level of interest (how ironic)

I could test this the last week in the duty free shop in Hungary and I'm a bit disappointed...
Perhaps I waited some exiting and super modern innovation from Guerlain but not...
I like the original Shalimar, it's classic, chic and noble.
Shalimar Initial doesn't remind of original Shalimar, this perfum exactly Miss Dior Cherie and Coco Mademoiselle on me. I don't like it at all...( Miss Dior Cherie and Coco Mademoiselle are one of these perfums which can chase me out of the world:D)
It has the powdery and soapy tone but somehow it's just a choking mixture of the notes.:( Tonka, iris and musk dominant on me..

I really wanted it to buy but fortunately I was able to try before i would be a mistake to buy it...

Shalmar Parfum Initial must be Guerlains answer to Chanel N°5 eau Premiere: A modernized Shalimar for the younger audience. However, after a brief testing I'm not as impressed as I was by Chanels reissue of N°5. To my nose, It smelt like a very dilluted Shalimar, but dilluted with water, sugar and vanilla. I will need to test it again to give it a second chance. The bottle is so beautiful I would really like to have it, if not for the fragrance itself, perhaps for the bottle :)

Update: I'm still disappointed with the topnotes. It smells water dilluted and metallic. The same kind of metallic note you get in your mouth after drinking too much water. Too bad. The drydown on the other hand is nice and creamy but nothing special. The bottle is still a dream for the vanity.

I only tried this as I was given a free sample. I do not like it and would never wear it. It's heavy powdery patchouli and rose. Smells old fashioned.

Shalimar Parfum Initial opens like an absolute copy of irisy leathery Dior Homme. After that roses start to play and the scent becomes flowery and sweeter in the feminine style, but still with those "carrot" base from Dior Homme. In a whole new Shalimar sounds like a bit nostalgic powdery fragrance, but not so old-fashioned as regular Shalimar is (there is no similarity between regular and this new version though). Definitely Shalimar Parfum Initial will suit those ladies who:
a) adore Dior Homme but afraid of wearing it because of its male targeting,
b) want to wear Shalimar but find it not modern enough.

I just don't get it. This smells nothing like Shalimar therefore it might have been better to have just given it a new name. I guess since Shalimar is one of their best sellers they wanted to trade on the brand. That being said and taking it on its own it is not memorable and smells rather ordinary and unsophisticated.

It reminds me somewhat of a men's cologne my husband use to own so I can see why men might like for themselves. Personally, it is not for me and I will be selling my bottle as soon as the fragrance is discontinued and off the shelves.

This Shalimar Initial mimics Dior Homme. Must be the iris, vetiver and patchouli. It even wears down similar. As if to say, it mocks. Where he who is masculine, is built around leather and cacao... she who is feminine is built around tonka, vanilla and caramel. However, done so craftily, the notes we identify as sweet go completely undetected yet play a major role in the eventual dry-down of "Dior Femme", though not entirely feminine in it's final phase. This Shalimar is a strange girl, but I like her.

Shalimar is a fragrance I admire for being a classic and love for all its vanillary and lemony goodness, however I could never find a way to make Shalimar work on my skin. I always ended up smelling like an opened bottle of calamine lotion.

Shalimar Parfum Initial has managed to cut back on all that lemon and powder, leaving a sweeter, softer vanilla with sticky caramel and green accords. It makes less of a statement when wearing it, and I can see a plethora of youngsters falling in love with this reincarnation of Shalimar, in the 21st century.

Personally I prefer Shalimar Parfum Initial because it works better with my skin chemistry. Yet I can see why some devoted Shalimar fans would be outraged by a weaker version, devoid of lemon, incense and powder.

The scent is a little fresher, so I feel obliged to encourage those to wear it during Spring, or even Summer, when it's not too scorching hot outside. Shalimar Parfum Initial is universally pleasing. I get some interesting sexual vibes from this fragrance when I wear it. The men around me seem to adore it, which is a good sign. I expect this flanker to sell extremely well this year, and I'm hoping this will not be a short-lived special edition.

The iris note really shines in this version of Shalimar, alongside the polite and dusty vanilla, green bergamot, gooey caramel and earthy vetiver and patchouli. Thierry Wasser has done an excellent job. I compare his work to Jacques Polge's Chanel No.5 Eau Premiere, where both have managed to modernise classic fragrances in a way that appeals to the younger crowd, such as myself.

The sillage is moderate and the longevity is fantastic. It maintains the 'bad-girl' image that Shalimar was renowned for in the 20's, and for that alone I'm impressed. Shalimar Parfum Initial is worth experiencing in my opinion. I'm glad I took the leap of faith.

As someone who cannot wear normal Shalimar (I amp the incense note), and has never smelled any other flanker and probably never will, I present a completely unbiased review. I'm aware that Parfum Initial has received a lashing online reviews-wise, but I believe most are due to being unable to judge this on its own merits. Though I will admit, the choice of pink for the juice is silly if not a bit demeaning.

In any case, Shalimar Parfum Initial begins with a creamy yet powdery vanilla/iris/lemon/tonka combo with just a hint of juiciness which I believe is from the vetiver. It's soft, sweet, and classic in feel--I wonder how this is supposed to appeal to the modern fruitchouli girl. On my skin the powderiness and vanilla/lemon remains all throughout the dry down, but it's a clean just-showered powderiness rather than the cries of "old lady!" often screamed by those who catch even a whiff of powder. Sillage is strong without being cloying, but this is definitely a spray-once-sparingly-in-the-cleavage kind of scent. Longevity is amazingly tenacious, lasting a good 4-6 hours.

If Shalimar is a grand dame coming down a spiral staircase at a grand ball, Parfum Initial is her daughter at her cotillion. I can see this becoming *my* Shalimar, having respect for the original but being unable to handle it. Comparing Parfum Initial to the original would be like expecting some famous person's child or relative to be exactly like him or her; an unfair comparison, and to stay out of the famous person's shadow they need to be judged as their own person.

Hey,
this one is in my taste. Softer, smoother, a little bit lighter than original Shalimar. This is "wearable" ;) Very long lasting. Last for hours. Soft and feminine, very comforting. I think for those who have thought original Shalimar to be a bit "too much".

Not a very typical Shalimar perfume, but it is a Guerlain fragrance, you can smell it... Anyhow, a little disappointed that they decided to name this one Shalimar, because it's a complete different fragrance from the original.

But it's still a good fragrance, strong and sweet. Kinda reminded me of Dior Homme for some reason.

Evidently, Shalimar doesn't want to left behind. She may be wearing a new clothing and being modernized. She may put on a few calories with something sweet and modern florality because she wants the later generation to get along better with her. But beware. the heart and soul is still Shalimar. She is not kidding around and still has her vintage charm. Reserve for experienced users only.

I tried this recently at a department store and I didn't like the top notes at all. I had high hopes for this one since the bottle is really beautiful. The top notes are just odd, It smells like a cedar closet to me too dusty almost like wood shavings. I would love to smell this on a man as it's quite a masculine scent. I guess this is one of those love or hate kind of perfumes that takes many tries it order to like!

This is odd. It smells only faintly like the original Shalimar - but it smells good. I like soapy scents and here is some freshness to the top, which evolves into a full heart with iris and maybe a little rose. But then the dry down: It is soft, lingering and has a gourmand feel. I like the tonka bean in it which makes it so cozy and comfortable. It is almost a go-to fragrance, and should fit most fall/winter occasions. So - the famous Shalimar it is not - but in its own right a good perfume. If it had a different name, I would have bought it also, so good it is.

"..I'm then met with a rather strange Bertie Bassett Liquorice note .." Ha, ha! Dilly - you made me laugh when you said that!! I remember Bertie Bassett and hey, there's nothing at all wrong with Liquorice Allsorts (or Licorice Allsorts to any Americans reading this!!) (especially the sweeter ones that aren't quite as liquorice'y as some of the other ones!). ;o)

Well, Bertie Bassett aside, I tested Shalimar Initial the other day on my spritzing session around a perfume section in a department store and I quite liked it. I didn't try it on my skin though, just on a perfume strip, but the aroma that wafted up to meet my nose was very pleasant and, in my opinion, better than the original Shalimar, which has never particularly appealed to me although it has its place, of course, in the classic perfume world and is much better than the 'classic' stenchy Opium (if a stench of any type can be called a classic, and my most hated perfume in the world EVER - well, that I have had the extreme misfortune to encounter so far!!!).

I agree with what a lot of reviewers here have said about perfume houses putting out too many different versions of their popular perfumes but still, this one is actually very likeable. It's definitely lighter, breezier and more youthful the the original Shalimar. It's soft, warm, slightly powdery (reminding me slightly of a powdery, spray on woman's deodorant!), and sweet. The iris, vanilla, caramel and tonka bean are the notes that I smell the most and the rose doesn't really come through to my nose as much as it seems to for other reviewers! I don't detect any liquorice at all in it, and I don't see liquorice or anise listed in the notes on here (I did also test Hypnotic Poison though and that really seemed to have a strong liquorice note in it, which I found a bit annoying!). Although I didn't test Shalimar Initial on my skin and just on a perfume strip, the longevity seems to be excellent because I tested it three days ago and I can still smell it strongly on the perfume strip and it's scenting my living room very nicely!! Also, I tested various other perfumes on different perfume strips but this perfume is the one that I smell the most.

So, I can give a thumbs up to this perfume. Not only is it a very likeable, more youthful and (in my opinion) more wearable version of Shalimar but the bottle is very lovely and would look very becoming in any woman's (maybe even a 'in touch with his femininity' male's!) boudoir!

Very nice, its powdery and slightly fruity but i can still smell some of the classic shalimar in the midst of it. I desperately want to love shalimar so i think this will be my guerlain gateway drug!

While i do like Shalimar Parfum Initial, i see just a faint link with Shalimar. I think it'd be much better if they had just named it Parfum Initial, cause what it evokes me is an introduction to the sweet and powdery heritage of Guerlain, done in a way that it doesn't scary who is not used with the maison.

At the opening i thought that this would be Dior Homme Cologne after a sex change, cause you get the same citrus and iris combination of the cologne version. After a sparkling fresh citrus opening comes the powdery iris and then a sweet flowery moment. The scent gets sweeter but not gourmand as the times goes by, finishing with a pretty goud coumarinic and musky vanilla.

Altough it does have the vanilla and citrus part, it doesn't evoke shalimar. Shalimar Light and Ode a La Vanille seems better heiress of one of the most famous oriental fragrances of all time. This is a well-done fragrance, but the need of linking it as a flanker of something famous kills part of its charm.

I thought this was going to be my alternative to the original Shalimar, but no, unfortunately not. The opening smells just like lipstick. I really can't tell what combination of notes makes this come about but there it is. It's not unpleasant, just a bit odd. This fades fairly quickly to a soapy, powdery rose, I get no jasmine or orange blossom. It turns into a woody musky rose as the vetiver and musk appear and that's about it for me, leaving it smelling still somewhat old fashioned despite this being a modern update. I don't get any sweetness of vanilla, almond or caramel and would not have known they were meant to be present. So if I were to summarise this, I would call it an antique rose. Pretty nice for a chypre though, which I usually hate.

This is smashing! Hooray, I love it because sometimes Shalimar is too heavy during the day.

This child of Shalimar is Sunday's child: Bonney, blithe, good & gay.

It opens with a similar hook to Coco Mademoiselle, but the similarity ends there. I think it's the bergamot and jasmine. I'm then met with a rather strange Bertie Bassett Liquorice note and the same caviar type note in Womanity, by Mugler. 10 mins later I'm getting plastic dolls head through the fruity floral notes. After 30 mins I'm getting some of the notes familiar in the original masterpiece, but only in part.
I will hate this perfume, I will be cross about it, offended even. It's commercial, it's riding off the back of a classic, it's pink, it smells of fishy floral plastic. I love it.

smelled like a watered down Shalimar with anisic notes and a cooler vibe from the Iris. Nice, but not as nice as Shalimar!

I tried it and really find it to my liking: not outstanding, and as a matter of fact, with top notes reminiscent of Dior Homme in the leather / iris accords I got when applied and Heritage in the mid notes; maybe the blend includes aromachemicals used in these ones, which at some point baffled me, however, this did not affect the blend's attraction.

It did not evolve much as of the mid notes, it opens in a promising way but the complexity stops in the mid and base notes: on the blotter, the blend did not change much from the time it was given to me. Finally, the base notes are lead by musk and patchouli and some florals, giving the sensation of a leather accord. At this point, I found it could be easily wearable by men if it were not for its popularity - at this point I remembered that female chypres can be easily worn by men.

As you can see, it does not have anything to do with the original Shalimar, this is lighter than the former and, even though iris and tonka beans are listed in the pyramid, it lacks the strong vanilla and iris / amber notes proper of all the Guerlains.

I wonder Shalimar Parfum Initial must be getting a considerable amount of negative reviews by part of purists. Not my case, I found it is a good contemporary blend. Of course, I can contribute to the cause of purists in that it could be thought of a forced rendition of the original one since I could not find traces regarding the original Shalimar, an oriental tuned into a floral chypre due, maybe, to business demands calling for youngsters to approach Guerlain's bestseller.

Were they really aiming for a younger version of Shalimar here? Because the first thing I thought while smelling it was "Oh, it's an Apres l'Ondee variation! Or maybe a L'Heure Bleue one," But no. The bottle says "Shalimar." But where is the grand Shalimar DNA? Not in the thin, powdery drydown. I don't get this one at all. It's just a pale, powdery iris. Shalimar Light and Ode a la Vanille were better Shalimar revamps. Come on, M. Wasser! You can do better than this!

The very first reviews I read of Parfum Initial were not too raving. Many were crying out "What is this?" "This is not Shalimar" "It's PINK!" and so on and so forth. If you're looking for the strong resinous and powdery trail like the original, this is not it. Parfum Initial has been made so much more transparent yet keeping an ambery floral trail brightened by vetiver and orange notes with hints of rose seemlessly entwined throughout the fragrance. Musk is what grounds the base of this fragrance, but doesn't overwhelm, just keeps the rest of the notes together . Ironically, I can catch nuances of Guerlain Homme (which I now believe M. Wasser has kept bits of Shalimar's structure in a mens offering-aha!) and Idylle in this fragrance. It is UNISEX, teetering on the feminine, in the way some Hermessence fragrances are. Pure surprise that I love Parfum Initial a lot more than Ode a la Vanille, which to me, smells all over the place on skin and doesn't last long. Parfum Initial, on the other hand, is a true Eau de Parfum. Lasts longer than any Guerlain I've ever worn, including Shalimar Parfum.

It is indeed a fragrance to start a budding Guerlainophile on to the sultry and distinctive trail of Shalimar! Guerlain seems to be listening to demands and concerns about their fragrances, and have entered the mainstream with the Guerlain sophistication, but with modern touches. BRAVO! I hope they keep it a true permanent offering at the Guerlain counter.

I tested it as a gift, it was very nice to discover a soft, fresh and sweet version of Shalimar. I like Shalimar, of course, this perfume is a classic. But it's not for me. Shalimar Parfum Initial would be for me : younger, fresher, sweeter. Test it, it's worth it.

very nice smell, wearable for a wider range of people as opposed to classic Shalimar but not a pleasing odor for a wide range of customers, and that is good... It should smell similar type Dior Homme Intense or J. Sander JIL

First, let me just state that the bottle is BEAUTIFUL in person. Sometimes a bottle can look beautiful in the ad but when you see it in person it's ugly or plastic feeling or very cheap looking but this bottle just looks expensive and it isn't really that expensive as far as price goes. I went to Nordstrom yesterday to purchase Tobacco Vanille and this was the first bottle that caught my eye. It's stunning in person. Of course this is just my opinion so if you see this bottle in person and you hate it don't shoot me!

Now, to get to the REAL deal. Wow. This fragrance, I believe, is the mother of Chanel Coco Mademoiselle. It has a grown up sweetness, it isn't super powdery, it has a richness to it that can't really be described, it's deep, etc. I can't believe I post reviews! I'm horrible at describing scents!

I just can't believe this is Shalimar! I don't really like the original but I've always loved the bottle. Now I'll have my own modern version of the shalimar bottle when I purchase this.

I went to Selfridges in London today especially to smell this new perfume from Guerlain. I have been wearing Shalimar EDT for sometimes now, and it has been my signature perfume (I am a gay man!).

My first impression: fresh and then sweet, but not overly too sweet... only very slightly floral (iris), and then it settles down into this warm and seductive amber and tonka bean with a hint of 'dirty' (if you know what I mean! Hint: think of 'Last Tango in Paris', get it?) Vanilla quality at the base. It still remains powdery, but I have to say that the smokiness of the original Shalimar is gone. It reminds me very slightly of Coco Mademoiselle.

It took me 1 hour while I was wondering around and smelling this perfume, and then suddenly: WHOA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ANGELS COMING DOWN FROM THE HIGHEST HEAVEN, AND BOY.......I AM IN LOVE WITH IT!!!! And before I knew it, I bought the 30ml EDP (does not come in EDT, thank God for that!) for £37.00 in a blink of an eye.

Yes, this perfume is alot more softer and femine than the original, but by no way it is girly. Oh No. This is a grown up perfume (think of Belle de Jour, honey!) and that's why I love it from the very first initial impression.

The sillage is wonderful, and I still can smell it when I got home 6 hours later after my first spray!

You will not be disspointed by Shalimar Parfum Initial EDP!!!!

Shalimar is NOT just a perfume. It is the whole French chicness in a bottle PERSONIFIED, and yes...I'll be spraying myself this perfume for the years to come from now on!!!! Move over Coco Mademoiselle! (Please don't get me wrong, I love Coco Mademoiselle).

For me, this has to be one of THE greatest perfumes EVER been made!

PS:Natalia Vodianova is gorgeous too!

OOps, I meant to say Shalimar Parfum Initial is available at Neiman Marcus now....probably at other high-end dept. stores, too.

I had written 'Shalimar' rather the S.P. Initial previously. Obviously, the original Shalimar is available everywhere.

Provato proprio oggi in profumeria...per curiosità, attratta anche dalla bellezza della boccetta e dal nuovo colore rosato: è stato un colpo di fulmine! Credo che per la prima volta ho trovato davvero un profumo che nelle sue sfaccettature olfattive riesce a "rappresentarmi" completamente...e adesso non resta che aspettare l'occasione giusta per regalarmelo (o farmelo regalare? ;))

Shalimar is now available at Neiman-Marcus online. I got an online notice about it today - June 25, 2011.
Have not ordered it - I am a Shalimar parfum lover.

Even worse than the regular Shalimar , which i hate big time .
It smells like something rusty !
And one more time a naked Natalia Vodianova to sell , and I'm sure once again , it will work ...
Kaching !!!

I've just got this lovely fragrance three days ago...
I can say it's warm formula of classic shalimar in a very alluring but natural way... lovely, lovely and sooooooo lovely... and it worth a try...

I just got this yesterday in Paris and is not too bad. Would I call it iconic? No, not yet, it has to grow on me alot more to get to those lofty heights. Do I like it? Oh yes, I really like it. Is it worth having for your Guerlain collection? Yup. What is it like? Well, it is rather heavy on White Musk, which many people either hate, or love. I am rather fond of it and find it rather intriguing in this fragrance. It gives it a "fresher" aspect, but, yet, don't let that scare you, it is still a Guerlain oriental at heart. The Bergamot top notes are every bit as lovely as the original. The mid is what keeps me from saying it's iconic in my book, but, nonetheless, it is done well for what it is and I respect that. The base shares something akin to, I hate to say this, a very subdued ANGEL. Honestly, it is growing on me and I may change my tune as I wear this more later.

As far as the bottle and the pink juice...well, after seeing it sitting on my shelf, it is striking. I am much fonder of it than I expected. Very nice.

I emailed Guerlain to find out where I might find this and this is the response:-

"I inform you that SHALIMAR PARFUM INITIAL will be available internationally from 1st September 2011 (it is already available, only in France).

However, in London, in Harrod's, it should be available in June"


Looks like I have to be patient :(

I think this version of Shalimar is trying to introduce the original perfume to younger generations.Let´s be honest,although Shalimar is a masterpiece how many of us felt seduced by it when we were teenagers? It is also true, that some of us are still faithful to our first loves in perfumery. Somehow the classic shalimar was a forgotten soul for the youngest.So, they have made it more attractive to them:more citrus=fresher,warm pink liquid=reminding them the colors of the fruity perfumes they use,beautiful bottle. I am not so sure about the naked model though...
All in all,I find it a softer version of the original,quite charming even for the summer,and pretty lovely.

Hi!!!

A big Yes for Shalimar Parfum Initial.
It has something in common with the original, but this is modern and younger, as Guerlain aimed to.
At first You can notice the original Shalimar's bergamote, a little brighter... then turns into a well-balanced sweet smell, with the iris and rose, not too floral. Always being Shalimar, but shier...
The end note is quiet, and warming.
Keeps like a second skin, and seem to have good staying power.
The bottle as You can see is wonderful!!!.
I can say that I love this fragance, is a new Shalimar's version, different, but Shalimar.

I hope You like it!!! Cheers!!!

I'm sure it's much easier to tweek a formula you already have than to start from scratch, And who wants to put forth the effort anymore of a new name and distinctive packaging?
I too tire of the flanker overload.
I'm also not fond of special or limited editions only available for a few fleeting months. It may boost sales short term but doesn't support a long-term following.

These companies need to slow it down, quit being so freaking competitive and start putting some thought and artistry back in scent creation.

Until then, I won't be wasting my hard earned dollar on crap but will spend it on tried and true classics.

I absolutely agree with the fast-fragrance industry idea!!!

Back in the golden days perfume houses released fragrances in every 5 or 10 years only!!!

When I was discovery perfumery, Cartier, Chanel, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Givenchy, Cacharel, Armani, Calvin Klein and such big houses had only 4-5 female and less male fragrances!
Now they release at least 1 product a year... however, none of these become legendary fragrances like No 5, Opium, Paris, Poison, Amarige, Anais Anais etc.

I'm sooo fed up with this! I don't expect a new release from my favourite houses ever year! I don't want 6 flankers and 4 versions of my dearest fragrances. I would need milestones that have been worked on for 5-6 years with hard work, blood and sweat :)

I say "Keep those flankers coming!" Sometimes they equal or exceed the original in quality -- or perception of quality -- while maintaining the "family ties". Sometimes they have a bit more or a bit less of something that makes them more wearable to some folks than the original.

Example: I found Shalimar Legere, of some years back, with its lemon merinque pie accord, easier to wear in warm and hot weather than the original. Now Legere costs waaay more than I'm willing to pay, but I'm very, very glad to have it in my wardrobe.

I'll be looking for this new one.

I love the perfume world, but I agree that this industry is going nuts launching estrange versions of famous scents. I don't know, but it has started with CK One and then , CK Be, Ck Summer version, etc.
After that, Poison ,Poison Tendre, Midnight Poison......What can we spect more? Chanel n-5 Black version?

I agree with you gellybeantree,me to,I like testing new perfumes,even with my disapointment.But does that affect our taste in somhow? I found that my taste is changing,and I think maybe too much testing(even commercial ones) gave me a new (nose)!!!!!!!!

I agree with all of you it is more quantity than quality now a days! I can't even keep up anymore and every time I get excited about a new fragrance I test it and end up being underwhelmed. Just mass consumption and low quality , as long as it is safe and it sells! I am still going to test this because I am curious but I am not getting too excited as usual.

Why so many versions? I think they lose their "ID" this way...

Year after year we see more and more flankers. In my opinion the fragrance industry was converted into a "fast-food" industry.

The fast - fragrance industry hits again. The last victim: Shalimar.