Project #14: YSL Black Opium EDP / Gallery & Reviews

Black Opium by YSL will always be that perfume for me. Period.

Probably because I've go so many good memories linked to this fragrance, but every time I wear it, I always feel like I'm in heaven, where the essence of coffee intertwines with delicious vanilla and bitter almond.

But this fragrance isn't just about sweetness, because it also has a more mysterious side, which is super intriguing and addictive.

I took these images a while ago and my main goal was to capture the duality of this perfume, where darkness is present, but in a glamorous and sparkling way, deeply contrasting with the richness of the more playful and sweet notes.

Once again, lights and shadows are the main protagonists here, and they create a beautiful pattern where the beautiful Black Opium bottle stands out.

Oh, there's also a rock, just to add some kind of texture...

I hope you enjoy the images ✌🏻

About the perfume:

Released back in 2014, Black Opium Eau de Parfum by Yves Saint Laurent had the hard task to reimagine and modernize the brand’s legendary Opium fragrance from 1977. Modernized for a new generation, it encapsulates a rebellious and addictive spirit. Designed to embody confidence and sensuality, Black Opium has become a staple in the world of gourmand perfumes, celebrated for its unique coffee note and intoxicating sweetness.

The opening of this intoxicating perfume is a burst of energy with notes of pink pepper, orange blossom, and pear. The pear adds a juicy, slightly fruity sweetness that feels fresh and modern, while pink pepper lends a subtle spicy kick. This introduction is bright and enticing, immediately capturing attention.

The heart then unveils the star of the composition: a marvelous dose of coffee. Paired with rich jasmine and a touch of bitter almond, the coffee note in the composition is dark, warm, and inviting. It's a bold choice that sets Black Opium apart from traditional floral fragrances, giving it a unique gourmand twist.

As the fragrance evolves and dries down, creamy vanilla, earthy patchouli, and soft cashmere wood emerge. The vanilla dominates, creating a sweet, velvety finish that lingers for hours. Combined with the coffee, it gives the perfume its signature addictive warmth and depth.

Black Opium performs well in terms of longevity, lasting between 6-8 hours on the skin and even longer on clothing. Its projection is moderate, creating a noticeable but not overpowering sillage. It's a fragrance that leaves a memorable trail without being too intrusive, making it suitable for both daytime and evening wear.

The bottle is as striking as the fragrance itself. A modern take on the iconic Opium bottle, this rectangular shaped bottle is covered in countless black glitters, reminiscent of a night sky, with a circular window in the center revealing the warm amber liquid. The design perfectly captures the edgy, glamorous essence of the scent, paying homage to the fashion house’s legacy.

Even if it’s marketed as a women perfume, I personally love to wear Black Opium and I think that is a super versatile perfume, that shines best in cooler weather due to its warm, gourmand profile. It's an excellent choice for evening occasions, dates, or any event where you want to feel seductive and confident. That said, its sweet and comforting nature can also make it a go-to for casual daytime wear, especially during fall and winter.

Black Opium Eau de Parfum is for me a masterful blend of warmth, sweetness, and depth. Its coffee-vanilla combination is truly iconic, making it one of the most recognizable and loved perfumes in the gourmand category. While its sweetness may not appeal to everyone, those who embrace its addictive allure will find it to be a signature scent that turns heads and garners compliments.