Folie Douce by Parfums Gres c1997

"Folie Douce" by Parfums Grès is a captivating fragrance that was introduced in 1997. Sophie Labbé, renowned for her olfactory expertise, collaborated with Nathalie Lorson to craft this enchanting scent. The name itself, "Folie Douce," suggests a blend of whimsy and sweetness, which perfectly captures the essence of the fragrance. With its unique combination of notes, it has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on perfume enthusiasts since its launch.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a crisp fruity-floral fragrance for women. Folie Douce has vibrant top notes, these, combined with sparkling citrus tones of Japanese yuzu fruit, unfold to reveal this fragrance's daringly different presence. These delightfully invigorating top notes mature to disclose a mixed floral bouquet with a rich, tender after note of vanilla and the timeless elegance of cedarwood. 

• Top notes: raspberry, Japanese yuzu, citrus zest, black currant, mimosa
• Middle notes: heliotrope, iris, ylang-ylang, bay leaf, lemon leaf 
• Base notes: vanilla, white cedar, musk, sandalwood

"Folie Douce" by Parfums Grès is absolutely delightful! Let's break down its scent profile based on the notes provided:

Top notes:

• Raspberry: Likely adding a juicy, slightly tart sweetness to the opening.
• Japanese yuzu: Bringing in a bright, citrusy zest that adds freshness and vibrancy.
• Citrus Zest : Enhancing the overall citrusy vibe, contributing to the fragrance's lively character.
• Black currant: Adding depth and richness to the fruity top notes.
• Mimosa: Possibly lending a floral sweetness, complementing the fruity notes.

Middle notes:

• Heliotrope: Known for its powdery, almond-like aroma, adding a soft, comforting layer to the fragrance.
• Iris: Adding a touch of elegance and floral sophistication.
• Ylang-ylang: Infusing a creamy, exotic floral scent, likely contributing to the fragrance's feminine allure.
• Bay leaf: Offering a subtle, herbal freshness that adds complexity to the heart of the fragrance.
• Lemon leaf: Adding a green, zesty quality that enhances the overall freshness.

Base notes:

• Vanilla: Providing a warm, sweet, and inviting aroma that adds depth and sensuality to the dry down.
• White cedar: Adding a woody, aromatic element that brings sophistication and longevity to the fragrance.
• Musk: Enhancing the overall warmth and sensuality, while also adding a subtle animalic quality.
• Sandalwood: Offering a creamy, smooth woodiness that adds depth and a velvety texture to the base.

Overall, "Folie Douce" seems to offer a harmonious blend of fruity, floral, and woody notes, creating a fragrance that is both uplifting and sophisticated, perfect for a woman who exudes confidence and elegance.

Bottle:

The presentation of "Folie Douce" by Parfums Grès  features a beautifully sculpted glass bottle designed by Serge Mansau. Mansau is renowned for his artistic flair and ability to create stunning fragrance bottles that not only contain the scent but also serve as works of art in their own right. With his expertise, the bottle for "Folie Douce" likely reflects the essence of the fragrance, perhaps featuring elegant curves or intricate details that capture the whimsical yet sophisticated nature of the scent within. The combination of Mansau's artistic vision and the allure of the fragrance itself would make "Folie Douce" a captivating addition to any perfume collection.

Fate of the Fragrance:

 

It's unfortunate when a beloved fragrance like "Folie Douce" gets discontinued. Without a specific date, it can be challenging to pinpoint exactly when production ceased. However, it's not uncommon for perfumes to be discontinued due to various reasons, such as changes in consumer preferences, ingredient availability, or strategic decisions by the brand.

While it may no longer be available for purchase through official channels, discontinued perfumes often develop a dedicated following among enthusiasts who cherish and seek out remaining bottles through secondary markets or vintage perfume sellers. These fragrances can evoke nostalgia and hold sentimental value for those who have cherished memories associated with them.

If you're particularly fond of "Folie Douce," you might still be able to find it through online marketplaces, auction sites, or specialty vintage perfume shops. Just be sure to exercise caution when purchasing from unofficial sources to ensure the authenticity and quality of the product.