Olympéa Elixir
Coconut milk is the first thing Rabanne Olympéa Elixir Eau de Parfum puts in front of you, and it sets the tone for a scent that is tropical without being a holiday cliche. It is used as milk rather than as suntan oil, soft and creamy and a little nutty, and pineapple cuts across it with a sharp sweet-sour brightness while bergamot adds a clean bitterness at the edges. That opening is rich but not heavy, which is a difficult balance to strike with fruit this sweet.
The middle is where the flowers come in, and there are four of them. Monoi brings its own coconut scented softness, tiare flower is the creamy white gardenia note that gives Polynesian perfumery its character, jasmine adds warmth and a faint animal edge, and ylang ylang contributes a heady richness with something clove like in it. Together they make a dense floral heart that reads almost edible. The end is sweet and resinous. Vanilla smooths everything, benzoin adds a balsamic, burnt sugar depth, and juniper is the surprise: cool, resinous and slightly bitter, the material that stops the whole composition becoming a dessert. It is an odd and effective choice. Expect strong projection early and a long, warm, close drydown after that. Warm weather suits it, evening most of all, and it is made for women who want something sweeter and creamier than the original Olympéa. Anne Flipo composed it, and two sprays is the sensible dose.
Rabanne has belonged to Puig since 1987. The Spanish group created the perfume division in 1968, long before that purchase, and the fashion house behind the name goes back to Paco Rabanne's 1966 debut collection in Paris.
Please note: images are a guide only. Packaging and bottle design may occasionally differ from those shown due to manufacturer updates or promotions.
Similar Notes
The Scent Vault
Join thousands earning on every order
Earn points as you shop, redeem for money off, and unlock member perks.
Find out more
The Scent Vault Gift Cards
Give the gift of choice
One card, every scent. Let them pick the fragrance that is truly them. Send it instantly by email, or schedule it for a future date with a message of your own.
Shop gift cards
