La Vie Est Belle L’Absolu

Lancome’s latest addition to the La Vie Est Belle collection is L’Absolu de Parfum, an intensified version of the original fragrance.

And you know what they say; third time’s the charm. Not that the first two scents were bad, but this is my favourite. The first EDP was iris focused and the EDT magnolia. This incarnation also has iris at its heart, but in a more concentrated elixir.

Delicately sweet, opulent and floral, the new scent was created by the designers behind its predecessors, Dominique Ropion and Anne Flipo, who have taken the original iconic iris-based essence and evolved it into the far more concentrated “absolu”.

Don’t let the fruity top note of pear and black currant fool you. It soon gives way to a floral heart of iris, orange blossom, jasmine and damask rose. Cashmere wood, tonka bean, praline and vanilla make up the lingering base note. The result is a powdery, sophisticated scent. It’s strong, but not overpowering.

Packaged in a gorgeous, sparkly version of the original bottle, it’s the perfect addition to your Christmas wish list. It’s available in 40ml for R1050.