by Yves Saint Laurent
Opium Rouge Fatal (Collector's Edition 2015) is a bold, intense interpretation of the classic YSL Opium, designed to deliver a powerful olfactory impact. It opens with a bright citrus burst of mandarin orange and bergamot, quickly giving way to a fresh, soapy floral base dominated by lily-of-the-valley and white jasmine, giving it a clean, almost herbal quality that some describe as reminiscent of Irish Spring soap. This green, soapy phase is short-lived, evolving into a dry, warm musk accented with clove, myrrh, amber, and patchouli—the scent deepens into a spicy, slightly incense-like warmth that lingers with weight and presence. The fragrance is best worn for evening occasions, particularly during winter, where its rich, enveloping sillage shines. Though marketed as unisex, it leans strongly toward a masculine or androgynous profile, especially in its dry-down.