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Black Opium Pure Illusion
by Yves Saint Laurent
Black Opium Pure Illusion is presented as a limited edition version of the original Black Opium, featuring the same core accords and notes but with a distinct olfactory character noted by some as lighter, fresher, and more woody. While the fragrance shares key components like coffee, almond, vanilla, and licorice with the original, users report a noticeable divergence in dry down—some describe it as more balanced and less gourmand, with a subtle fruity floral undertone from orange blossom and pear. Others insist on its sameness, citing identical notes and implying this is merely a bottle refresh. Different users report varied experiences: some find it more comforting in winter with good longevity, while others note it feels muted or even stale, possibly due to formulation nuances beyond the listed notes. The bottle itself receives strong praise for its Art Deco elegance and collector appeal.
Pros
- +Appealing in design and presentation, with a distinctive bottle that stands out on shelves
- +Fresher and more balanced than the original Black Opium for some users
- +Good longevity, particularly at night and in colder seasons
Cons
- −Consistent reports of fragrance not matching original Black Opium despite identical notes
- −Some users perceive it as less sweet or flat, with less pronounced core elements like coffee and vanilla
- −Lack of strong sillage or projection beyond moderate levels