Few perfumes have caused actual diplomatic headaches; Opium did. Yves Saint Laurent's 1977 spice-bomb scandalised regulators, thrilled the Studio 54 crowd, and permanently expanded what mainstream perfume was allowed to be. Today's Eau de Parfum, re-tuned in 2009, keeps the essential drama: mandarin brightness giving way to myrrh, carnation and cinnamon over a smouldering amber-vanilla base. It remains a cold-weather statement scent - worn by women who want history, warmth and a little notoriety in one spray.
Opium is YSL's most legendary fragrance — a daring, opulent Oriental that shocked the world in the 1970s and still commands attention today. This 2009 Eau de Parfum reimagines the icon with mandarin and bergamot softening the entry before waves of myrrh, jasmine and cinnamon take over. The base of amber, patchouli and opoponax is rich, warm and unapologetically luxurious. A winter evening powerhouse.
At a glance
Opium Eau de Parfum by Yves Saint Laurent — Oriental – Spicy. Launched 2009. Created by Jean Amic, Jean-Louis Sieuzac (original 1977); current EDP re-orchestrated 2009. Longevity 6–10 hrs. Sillage strong. Price in South Africa: R1,400 - R2,200. Best for: morning commute, weekend brunch, date night, black tie evening.
- Scent profile
- Oriental – Spicy
- Launched
- 2009
- Perfumer
- Jean Amic, Jean-Louis Sieuzac (original 1977); current EDP re-orchestrated 2009
- Longevity
- 6–10 hrs
- Sillage
- Strong
- Price in South Africa
- R1,400 - R2,200
- Gender
- Feminine
- Best for
- Morning Commute, Weekend Brunch, Date Night, Black Tie Evening
Performance
Powerhouse — long-wearing with commanding presence.
✍️ Did You Know?
- •The 1977 original was one of the most scandalous launches in perfume history - its name and opulent campaign drew protests and advertising bans, and sold out anyway.
- •YSL threw a legendary launch party on a ship in New York harbour; Studio 54 royalty attended.
- •The modern EDP is a 2009 re-orchestration of the classic spiced-amber formula for current regulations.
Main Accords
Fragrance Pyramid
How this scent unfolds on your skin
Base Notes
Community Opinions
Wear It When
Morning Commute
“A spritz before you leave — fresh enough to wake you up, polished enough for the boardroom.”
Weekend Brunch
“Sun-dappled café tables, iced lattes, and effortless charm.”
Date Night
“Candlelight, slow conversation, and a scent trail that draws them closer.”
Black Tie Evening
“When the invitation says formal — this is what you reach for.”
Drag the knobs to explore
This Scent Is For
Warm & enveloping — leaves an unforgettable impression.
Scent Mood
Peak season: ❄️ Winter (100%)
Spr
Sum
Aut
Win
📖 Related Reading
More from Yves Saint Laurent
If You Like Opium Eau de Parfum…
Fragrances that share a similar scent profile, notes, or character.
Layer It With
Curated scent pairings to build a signature from Opium Eau de Parfum. Each combination is vetted by perfumers, editors, and community.
Adds an uplifting citrus accessory to anything richer — works whenever a scent feels too heavy for the weather.
Layering Tip
Spray the heavier scent first, then the lighter one on top. Start with two scents — more than three quickly becomes muddled. Always test on skin first.
AI Review Summary
Synthesised from fragrance data
Few fragrances carry the kind of cultural weight that Opium does, and this 2009 EDP remake earns its legendary status without much argument. The mandarin and bergamot open things up with a brief flash of brightness before the real drama kicks in — myrrh, cinnamon, and jasmine weaving together into something deeply warm, almost ceremonial. The base of opoponax, patchouli, and amber is where it truly settles, rich and unapologetically bold in a way that feels more like a statement than a scent. With strong sillage and longevity that easily pushes past six hours, this is one for cold Highveld evenings or formal winter occasions rather than a 35-degree Durban afternoon. Rated a solid 7.8, it's adored for its confidence and opulence, though those new to heavy Orientals should start with a light hand on the trigger.
Customer Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your experience with Opium Eau de Parfum