by Frederic Malle
En Passant is a profoundly naturalistic lilac fragrance that evokes the delicate moment when lilac blooms are at their peak—just before they begin to fade. It captures the freshness of dew-kissed blooms, with a crisp, green aqua-acidic opening that feels like walking through a rainy garden. The lilac is not sugary or idealized; it is a true floral expression, accompanied by subtle notes of wheat and cucumber that add depth without distracting from the core. The scent is translucent, intimate, and grows in subtlety, culminating in a quiet, powdery elegance that lingers subtly even after the main notes fade. It is not a powerful or long-lasting fragrance—most users note it lasts **moderately**, with sillage faint or **intimate**—but its presence is elegant and evocative. It wears like a gentle memory, perfect for spring and summer days, especially when a quiet, introspective ambiance is desired. The composition is minimalist but masterfully balanced, creating a poetic impression of fleeting beauty, akin to a moment passed abruptly, as the title suggests.