As a beauty editor, I'm lucky enough to try so many new perfumes on a monthly basis. In fact, I hear about so many launches that I even have a monthly feature on the new fragrances that you need to know about. As you can probably imagine, my perfume collection is pretty big, and I'm constantly switching things up and changing scents for the new seasons.
That being said, there is a handful of perfumes in my collection that have truly stood the test of time. From classic fragrances such as Chanel No5 and Dior's famous Miss Dior, there are a select few scents that I always repurchase no matter how old they get. One scent in particular that I can never get enough of is YSL's Black Opium,
Yes, this designer fragrance came out ten years ago, but it never fails to earn me compliments. It was huge when I was a teenager, so I guess you could say it's more of a "millennial" fragrance, but I'll be wearing it long into 2025. If you want to find out why I love it so much, keep on scrolling for my full review...
YSL Black Opium Perfume Review
The Notes
In my opinion, the main appeal when it comes to this perfume is the notes. It's quite possibly one of the most captivating scents I have ever come across, and everyone always asks me what I am wearing when I spritz it. I'd describe it as a sexy, gourmand scent that is perfect for evenings out.
The top notes include fresh pear and mandarin, which are given an intoxicating twist thanks to hints of roasted black coffee and cedarwood. Vanilla, orange blossom and white florals are at the heart, with a musky base that settles on the skin beautifully. As you can tell, this perfume contains a lot of contrasting notes. It takes fresh, sweet florals and turns them into a smooth, seductive aroma that keeps you coming back time and time again.
The Longevity
One thing I really love about this perfume is the longevity. Thanks to strong notes such as roasted black coffee and musk, this scent lasts so long. I can spritz it on in the morning and still smell it on the same clothes the next day. Judging from the amount of compliments it earns me, it also leaves a noticeable scent trail. It's the kind of perfume that people will still smell even after you've left the room.
The Packaging
The fragrance comes in a slim bottle that makes it super easy to pop into your handbag when on the go. The packaging embodies the notes, with contrasting light and dark colours. It has a black glittery bottle with a light pink circle in the centre featuring the brand's iconic logo.
The Verdict
All in all, I really can't rave enough about this fragrance. It smells delicious, it lasts all day and thanks to the punchy notes, you don't need to use a lot. I will say that if you're not a fan of gourmand fragrances, then this might not be for you, but if you do love sweet, sensual perfumes, I recommend adding this to your basket straight away.
Pros: Captivating scent, earns you compliments and lasts all day
Cons: May be too sweet for some
Shop YSL Black Opium
Yves Saint Laurent
Black Opium Eau De Parfum
Treat yourself to a new scent for 2025.
Shop More YSL Fragrances
Yves Saint Laurent
Black Opium Illicit Green Eau De Parfum
This is a zesty take on the original scent, with notes of green mandarin and fig.
Yves Saint Laurent
Black Opium Over Red Eau De Parfum
If fruity perfumes are your thing, you will love this take on the signature scent, which is infused with a juicy cherry accord.
Yves Saint Laurent
Black Opium Eau De Parfum Extreme
Can't get enough of the original fragrance? Why not try the extreme version?
Yves Saint Laurent
Libre Eau De Parfum
Another hugely popular YSL scent, with notes of lavender, orange blossom, vanilla and musk.
Yves Saint Laurent
Libre Flowers and Flames Eau De Parfum
The newest version of Libre contains bold floral notes.
Yves Saint Laurent
Mon Paris Eau De Parfum
Inspired by the city of romance, this fragrance will make you fall in love.
English (US) ·