Liberate Blossom

Libre's trick is putting lavender, usually thought of as a men's note, right at the centre of a floral. That tension is the whole appeal, and it's a big part of why Liberate Blossom wears as easily on men as on women. It's our reading of YSL's Libre, and a close one at about 95%.

Lavender, bergamot and mandarin open it bright and a little aromatic, an orange-blossom and jasmine heart warms the middle, and it settles on a soft vanilla, musk and cedar base. Floral, but with a clean, almost herbal backbone that keeps it from turning sugary.

An all-season scent that moves easily from day to evening. If you find most florals too sweet, the lavender here is exactly what makes the difference.

The Perfumer's Note — Mazhar Hussain Bodla

"A lavender-and-orange-blossom floral with a clean, free-spirited feel. Honestly: the lavender keeps it from being too sweet, which is why it wears unisex and works all year."

Liberate Blossom is our own inspired composition and isn't affiliated with or endorsed by Yves Saint Laurent.

• Apply on clean, moisturized skin (best after a shower).
• Spray 2–4 times on pulse points: neck, wrists, behind ears, inner elbows.
• Hold the bottle about 10–15 cm away from the skin while spraying.
• Do not rub wrists together – let the fragrance air-dry naturally.
• For extra lasting power, lightly mist on clothes from a distance of 20–30 cm (avoid silk/light fabrics).