Lavalliere

Lavalliere by Yves Saint Laurent is a distinctive green-fig fragrance with a floral heart and woody depth, designed to feel both fresh and complex. It opens with a vibrant burst of blackcurrant and green fig, highlighted by bergamot and geranium, creating a lively, slightly tart and juicy character. The pear-like sweetness of fig is balanced by the verdant greenness of vetiver and the duality of opaque woody notes and transparent floral elements — rose, jasmine, and geranium — which harmonize with a subtle powdery muskiness that remains refined throughout. As it evolves, the fig becomes gauzy and sweetly textured, blending seamlessly with floral and woody accords, forming a soft but persistent drydown. It’s not overly sweet, with fig framed by a green-wood texture rather than heavy fruitiness; the aroma remains airy and nuanced, especially in the later stages. The fragrance is perceived as unisex, though there's a slight feminine-leaning quality due to rose and jasmine, particularly in the drydown, which never becomes overpowering. Longevity is moderate, lasting up to 10 hours, with strong sillage for the first few hours and sustained presence in the air even after the initial burst fades. It performs best in spring and summer, and works well during daytime hours, though some find the longevity inconsistent. Overall, it’s a well-crafted, subtle, and wearable green-fig bouquet that stands out among similar scents for its elegance and balance.