Perfumes like Givenchy L'Interdit don't come around all that often. A heady blend of white floral, orange blossom, tuberose, and dark, earthy notes like vetiver and jasmine, the cult Givenchy scent is an everyday fragrance with impact. It's noticeable, head-turning, the sort of scent that compels strangers on public transport to tap you on the shoulder and ask what you're wearing. And it has an A-list history.
Originally commissioned by Hubert de Givenchy in 1954 for the designer's friend and muse Audrey Hepburn, Givenchy L'Interdit is the brainchild of renowned perfumer Francis Fabron. Legend has it that Givenchy later asked Hepburn whether she would allow him to commercialise it, and she replied, 'Je vous l’interdis!' - I forbid you. Hence the name.
Audrey Hepburn wearing Givenchy, Getty
In 1957, Givenchy's first statement fragrance was born and reimagined over 60 years later in 2018. Whereas the 1957 version was a powdery floral brimming with soapy aldehydes, today's iteration is bold, dark and rich - an amber floral. It has impressive staying power too - a couple of spritzes will last you the whole day.
The blend of notes is so nuanced that not one is entirely discernible - it's one of the reasons why this scent leaves behind such an enigmatic and more-ish trail. If you already own a bottle, bring it out to play. Indulge in a morning misting and see how many compliments you reel in over the course of the next 24 hours. If you don't, get thee to your closest department store and sample its delights for yourself.
Get to know Givenchy L'Interdit Eau de Parfum
But its Givenchy's newest perfume launch that has been eagerly anticipated by the beauty set. Enter L’Interdit Elixir, £140 a bolder take on the cult classic. Its MO? To be 'more captivating and more bewitching than ever.' And it's hardly a surprise that this new launch delivers on that promise, having been created by some of the most celebrated noses in the business: Dominique Ropion, Anne Flipo and Meabh McCurtin.
This new interpretation introduces a tempting array of new notes, with black cherry taking centre stage. Deliciously dark and addictive, it lends the scent the kind of moody allure that feels perfectly suited to a smoky jazz bar. And then comes L'Interdit's signature white floral bouquet of jasmine, orange blossom and tuberose, unfolding with a hefty hit of unapologetic sensuality. The result is intense and intoxicating - instantly recognisable, yet entirely reimagined. Finally, a boozy base of rum absolute and davana essence adds a cocktail like warmth, lending this one a sophisticated yet decadently feminine finish.
Get To Know Givenchy L'Interdit Elixir
Which will you choose?
Annie Vischer is Head of Beauty at Grazia. Annie was previously Beauty Editor across a number of lifestyle titles at TI Media (now Future Plc) including Woman & Home magazine and Feel Good You. Annie has over a decade-worth of experience as a beauty journalist under her belt and is an established authority in the beauty industry, known for covering skincare, make-up, hair care, body care, treatments and wellness in print, online and across social media.