There’s something about patchouli that instantly transports me to another time, another vibe. So when I tried Patchouli 1973 by Chabaud Maison de Parfum, I was curious to see how this fragrance would capture that iconic note. Spoiler alert: it does not disappoint!
The moment I sprayed it, the top notes hit me with a soft, herbal burst of lavender. It’s soothing, almost nostalgic, with a fresh twist from orange that adds a little zest to the opening. It’s like the calm before a deeper, earthier experience. This phase doesn’t last too long, though – maybe 15 minutes? – before the fragrance starts shifting into something richer.
Once the top notes mellow, the patchouli really comes forward. And wow, it’s warm and slightly spicy, with a touch of that familiar earthy depth. If you’re a patchouli lover like me, you’ll appreciate how it’s not overwhelming here; instead, it’s beautifully balanced. There’s also a subtle sweetness from cinnamon, and I can detect a soft floral touch from the geranium, though it stays in the background, adding a gentle freshness. It keeps the patchouli from feeling too heavy or muddy.
As it dries down, this scent settles into something cozy yet elegant. The base notes of sandalwood, amber, and musk add warmth and a sensual vibe. The amber gives it this golden, almost resinous sweetness, while the sandalwood brings a creamy, slightly woody softness. And the musk? It’s just enough to add a touch of skin-like warmth without feeling too powdery or animalic.
For me, Patchouli 1973 is like wearing a well-worn leather jacket over a soft, flowy scarf. There’s that balance between something a bit rugged and grounded (the patchouli and sandalwood) but also soft and inviting (the amber and musk). It has a slight retro feel – the name totally fits – but it doesn’t feel dated at all. It’s more like a nod to the past, with a modern, elegant twist. Patchouli 1973 is for those who love a warm, spicy-woody fragrance but don’t want anything too heavy. It’s nostalgic yet modern, earthy yet soft. A beautiful, balanced take on patchouli that’s easy to wear and feels timeless. I’m a fan!




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