by Paco Rabanne
Phantom by Paco Rabanne presents a bold, sweet, and highly synthetic olfactory profile that leans heavily into its core notes of citrus, lavender, and vanilla. The opening is sharp and citrussy—centered around lemon zest and green apple—making it initially refreshing but also rather intense for some. As it develops, the fragrance transitions into a creamy, sweet vanilla-lavender accord that is both sweet and slightly powdery. Earthy, smoky, and woody undertones are present but remain subdued, never fully integrating into the composition. The dry down is dominated by vanilla and lavender, creating a warm, slightly cloying scent that some find appealingly comforting while others find irritatingly synthetic and overwhelming. The scent performs well with moderate projection and longevity—especially when worn on clothes or skin. It is not traditionally masculine in scent or character, leaning unisexly towards youth-centric, soft, playful, and festive atmospheres. The unique robot-shaped bottle and its digital integration concept are praised by many as innovative and eye-catching, adding a layer of fun and novelty. However, the perfume is widely polarizing—some reviewers love its clean sweetness and wearable elegance, while others find it excessively sweet, relentlessly synthetic, and forgettable.