by Les Parfums de Rosine
Ballerina No 5 opens with a strikingly sweet, jammy burst of fig, rose, and citrus that feels luxurious and floral right from the start. The early moments are widely admired—many describe it as a perfumed cloud of powdery rose, syrupy fig, and soft almond blossom, evoking a dreamy, feminine elegance. However, this promise is often not sustained. Most agree that the fragrance thins out past the first ten minutes, leaving behind a drydown that is seen as slightly synthetic or off-kilter—some note a sour, unbalanced undertone that recalls unpleasant synthetic or even toilet-like scents. The final sillage is moderate, and while longevity is decent, many consider the drydown disappointing, with a powdery, vanillic-milkiness that can feel bland or cheap. It's best enjoyed in spring or summer, particularly during daytime hours.