Scandal

Scandal by Jean Paul Gaultier is a bold, hyper-gourmand fragrance centered around honey as the dominant note, enveloping the wearer in a richly sweet, sticky, and intensely animalic aura. The composition opens with a vibrant burst of citrus and white florals, offering a bright, juicy top that quickly thins as the honey—described by some as raw, smoky, and endlessly intense—takes complete command. This honey note is so pervasive that it dominates the experience, with later phases revealing subtle touches of beeswax, caramel, and patchouli that act as balancing undercurrents. Unlike many glossier gourmands, Scandal feels unrefined and unapologetically decadent, with a dry-down that is heavier than sugary, pushing more toward medicinal than edible. The perfume is long-lasting—reputably lasting hours on skin and days on fabric—and projects powerfully, making it an attention-grabbing choice. It performs best on cooler days and in winter, where its warmth feels inviting rather than oppressive. The bottle design is deliberately provocative and theatrical, making the perfume as much a statement piece as a fragrance.