Shalimar Philtre de Parfum
Guerlain (2020)

I sold my bottle of one of the original Shalimars, but I can still recognize the same DNA here—just noticeably weakened and more palatable. The original, to me, was never that challenging or hard to wear, though it did have a sharper citrus opening that some might find a bit dated. This version loses a lot of that complexity, but I wouldn’t say it’s been “dumbed down.” As others have mentioned, it works well as an accessible entry point into the Shalimar line.

I do miss the animalic undertones of the original, which gave it that slightly dirty, sensual edge. I understand why Guerlain might have softened that aspect for modern tastes, but I think that touch of dirtiness is what elevated the original and made it truly memorable. Personally, I would’ve preferred if they toned down the citruses and adjusted the florals while keeping the same balsamic richness intact. That’s me nitpicking, though — this is still a solid and respectful reinterpretation. It’s definitely modernized, but I wouldn’t call it gourmand. The vanilla note adds warmth, but it doesn’t cross into edible territory. Honestly, I’d love to see Guerlain release a true gourmand version of Shalimar if they haven’t already. If you enjoy this one, I think you’d appreciate the original too.

I haven’t tried the other Shalimar flankers yet, but this makes me curious to explore them. Performance is decent—it lasts well without being overpowering. I think it fits best in fall and spring: too soft for cold winters, yet a bit too rich for hot summer days, where it might turn cloying. Overall, it’s worth testing. I’ve always loved the incense thread in the original, which reminded me of nag champa, and this version still carries a hint of that same comforting aura.

This is a modern Shalimar flanker that still stays true to the spirit of the original. The leathery/incensey notes are present, but much more of a background presence now. The citrus, powder and vanilla are the stars. This is a good way to introduce a contemporary audience to Shalimar.

This is still a mature scent. Most teens would not touch this with a 10 foot pole. Shalimar Philtre is a fragrance for grown women, but it is for grown women of the 21st century.

It's a bit modernized and gourmandized version of Shalimar that should be satisfying to Shalimar fans and also could work as a gateway scent to Shalimar if the original classic fragrance felt too difficult or too vintage-smelling for you.

Here Shalimar is stripped of its leathery and smoky facets, vanilla and powdery aspects are amplified, the citruses are softened and a bit of lavender added to the top notes. It still feels like Shalimar, but it's much sweeter and feels even a bit gourmand. It's still quite a mature fragrance, but doesn't feel as vintage as your usual Shalimar. I personally love both - and already noticed that Philtre is just perfect for baking - or when you want to smell delicious.