by Lancôme
Magie Noire is a powerful, complex chypre with deep woody, earthy, and herbal accords, evoking a dark, mysterious forest. It opens with sharp, green notes of galbanum and bergamot, followed by a rich, honeyed floral heart with jasmine, tuberose, and narcissus, culminating in a stable base of incense, patchouli, oakmoss, and dark spices. The perfume has a strong, lasting sillage and a distinctive, sensual drydown that feels both elegant and enigmatic. It has a specific, middle-of-the-night aura—ideal for winter evenings, special occasions, or boldly expressive wearers. Its boldness and complexity ensure it is not a casual, everyday scent and can polarize opinion. While some feel the modern reformulation is less intense than the vintage versions, it still retains the core character and stands as a timeless, sophisticated choice for those drawn to dramatic, bold perfumes.