Hello, Mistnee’s comments were oh so informative!! I did not know the background of the fragrance and now it all makes sense ! or should I say ’’scents’’! When you open the bottle, the essence of the orient comes through. Shalimar has a sweet, spicy, woodsy scent.You smell cinnamon, ginger, bergamont, and amber. This is a strong rich scent and is not appropriate for the office. You would expect the OWNER of a company to wear something like this {i.e. not proper for office, but she’s the boss, so what can you do} This fragrance is very ’’rich’’ smelling. By that I mean you expect the wearer to be at least 60years or over {remember, this came out in the 20’s}someone that probably wears fur coats, diamonds dripping off of her etc.. Like an Elizabeth Taylor type . I suggest that you wear this at a formal occasion, but truly it’s a great romantic scent. Every woman should have one bottle for seduction.The fragrance fades, but it remains on the skin for close contact. This is what I call a ’’personal’’ fragrance that when someone ask me what I’m wearing, I would change the subject. I’d call it a secret scent for a lover to remember you by. I would place this fragrance along the lines of Opium , Poison, or even Elizabeth Taylors Passion. Opium is too strong, Poison is too sweet, Passion fades quickly, but Shalimar is just right! I think this may even be called a ’’heavy’’ fragrance. Something you would wear in the fall. The house of Guerlain is fabulous! And the flowers for the fragrances are still chosen & designed by descendants of Guerlain. There is an interview about Guerlain on National Public Radio in the U.S. This is the type of gift you would give to a mother-in-law. There is a’’ Shalimar light’’ to attract a younger crowd that came out in 2004. But nothing is like the original! Try this if you like deep rich, sensual scents. Do NOT wear this on the train or bus. Someone may follow you home! This scent is intoxicating.