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
Main Accords
Fragrance Pyramid
How this scent unfolds on your skin
Base Notes
Strengths & Trade-offs
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This Scent Is For
Warm & enveloping — leaves an unforgettable impression.
Scent Mood
Peak season: ❄️ Winter (100%)
Spr
Sum
Aut
Win
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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.
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