Clive Christian L For Men is a woody aromatic fragrance for men that was released in 2014. The brand has not disclosed an official perfumer as its creator.
As someone who recently transitioned to a pure fragrance enthusiast, ditched the ‘gotta buy them all mentality, and gave up on being a fragrance collector, I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised with this fragrance. It’s not often that a scent at this price point exceeds expectations.
As such, I will not pay more than $400.00 for 50ml of any fragrance regardless of its ingredient quality, fragrance brand, or anything else.
I’m not that interested in the Clive Christian brand due to its high price point, and if I hadn’t acquired this scent via a swap, I would have never purchased it for that amount of money.
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In any case, everyone should at least sample it once in a lifetime and broaden their horizons to see what kind of masterpieces are on the market, besides all the generic and uninteresting stuff we see these days from fragrance influencers.
CLIVE CHRISTIAN L FOR MEN ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Clive Christian is a well-known luxury perfume brand from Britain highly regarded for its unwavering dedication to producing exceptional, top-quality fragrances.
The brand’s history dates back to 1999, when Clive Christian acquired the prestigious Crown Perfumery Company, originally founded in 1872.
Having a vision of designing perfumes that represent luxury and elegance, Clive Christian has become synonymous with perfumery extravagance.
L For Men is a part of Christian’s “Private Collection,” crafted especially for the wearer as a form of self-expression.
This perfume is still in production and is available in a 50ml Eau de Parfum bottle for $433.00.
PERFUME THEME
A NOTE FROM THE BRAND: “The sense of pure intimate luxury. A Clive Christian perfume is a work of perfection, crafted especially for the wearer as a form of self-expression. This esteemed floral chypre captures the natural elegance of jasmine and rose, a twist of dry orris and peppery frankincense wrapped in sensual honey, vanilla and musks with a hint of bold leather.”
PERFUME NOTES
- Perfumer: n/a
- Perfume oil concentration: Eau de Parfum
- Fragrance type: Woody Aromatic
- Release date: 2014
- Target audience: Men
- Masculine/Feminine: 90% – 10%
- Most dominant notes: Balsam Fir, Petit Grain, and Pink Pepper
- Age group: 25+
- Seasons: Fall and Winter
- Occasions: Business
- Longevity and projection: 10 – 12 hours with great projection
- The recommended number of sprays: 2 – 4
- Compliments: Low
- Likeability: Moderate
- Uniqueness: 5/5
- Presentation: 5/5
- Value for money: 6/10
- Price: $$$
- Accords: Spicy, Aromatic, Woody
- Reviewed batch code: n/a
- Reformulated: Yes
- Holy Grail Scent Rating: A
- Sample/Buy/Pass: Sample
- Testing period: 9 months
- Production: Available
- Possibility of discontinuation: Low
PERFUME NOTES
Top notes: Petitgrain, Grapefruit, Pink Pepper
Heart notes: Oud, Rose, Orris Butter
Base notes: Balsam Fir, Vetiver, Atlas Cedar, Musk, Leather, Patchouli
PERFUME PRESENTATION
Since my bottle is a tester, I don’t have the pleasure of providing you with the entire presentation except for the bottle.
As far as I saw on the web, the box looks superb. The outer orange/yellow cardboard has Christian insignia and the fragrance name.
In contrast, the inner box has a classic ‘jewelry-type’ design, resembling a luxurious jewelry box with intricate patterns and additional cushioning that protects the bottle.
In simple language, the bottle is fantastic—something that is expected of this kind of money. The bronze/brown color with golden nuance speaks of high-end luxury and the golden atomizer.
The crown design of the cap could be kitschy, but in this case, it fits the overall design. Love it.
TOP NOTES
- Petitgrain
- Grapefruit
- Pink Pepper
The images I’ve shared only scratch the surface of this complex creation. The Clive Christian L For Men fragrance is a journey that takes time to appreciate fully.
It’s a unique blend that will pique your curiosity and keep you returning for more.
This is a rare occasion where I could pinpoint a fragrance to a specific geographic location and say, yes, this smells 100% British.
It exudes a sophisticated blend of traditional English scents, reminiscent of the British high society.
L For Men opens with a punch of spicy pink pepper, zesty citruses, and something that immediately reminds me of Amouage Myths Man, which I still cannot pinpoint what it is.
This uplifting aroma is a double-edged sword since the freshness doesn’t last very long when the heavier notes, such as the warm, woody base and the rich, floral heart, start to take the forefront.
One thing is for sure: you will know whether something like this is for you straight from the opening. The complexity intensifies as the fragrance develops.
HEART NOTES
- Oud
- Rose
- Orris Butter
After a few minutes, the only thing fresh from the initial opening is that orangy petitgrain, while the rest have already said farewell.
The soapy rose peeks her head and takes over the citruses with additional touches of tame oud and that fantastic buttery iris, which is head and shoulders over anything you have smelled before.
The only other fragrance with the Orris butter on this level is Amouage Imitation Man and nothing else.
I hate rose with passion in men’s perfumery, but here, oh boy, it smells three-dimensional and not too strong to lean into feminine territory.
That rose adds a floral sophistication, complementing the oud with its timeless aroma inspired by the East, creating a rhythmic and balanced heart.
BASE NOTES
- Balsam Fir
- Vetiver
- Atlas Cedar
- Musk
- Leather
- Patchouli
The dry down is equally magical as the rest of L’s development. The most intense notes I sense here are undoubtedly balsam fir, cedar, musk, patchouli, and hints of leather, which isn’t mentioned anywhere.
Balsam fir adds a resinous and slightly sweet touch, providing warmth and depth, while musk brings a sensual and long-lasting finish.
These elements make the fragrance memorable and one of my favorite perfumes.
The transition from the fresh and spicy notes to exotic touches of florals and oud and finally to a luxurious, warm, and grounding base was something I did not expect at all, and I’m thankful that something like this special is in my collection.
PERFORMANCE
Even though I have seen from other sources on the web that some users are complaining about L’s performance, it works great for me, just as a fantastic signature-worthy fragrance should.
It lasts 10-12 hours on my skin, with excellent projection for the first few hours. It is easily detectable throughout the rest of the day when it behaves like a powerful skin scent.
The sillage leaves a trail that lingers in the air, extending to about 6-7 feet, depending on the environment and the wearer’s skin chemistry.
LONGEVITY: 10 – 12 hours
PROJECTION: Moderate-High
SILLAGE: Moderate
TARGET AUDIENCE AND COMPLIMENTS
In perfumery, where everything has become unisex recently, I’m proud to say that “L” is a mature, uber-masculine fragrance that I can’t see how a lady can pull off.
This doesn’t necessarily mean that there is no chance a woman could potentially wear this one, but there are many better options.
Regarding the compliments, if I’m being honest with you, don’t expect them. This isn’t a compliment garning type of fragrance—rather something when you want to enjoy first-class perfumery.
AUDIENCE: Men
AGE RANGE: 25+
COMPLIMENTS: Low
WHEN & WHERE
“L” shines in cooler weather, particularly in autumn and winter. The fragrance’s rich, warm, woody, and spicy notes are perfect for the colder months, providing a comforting and enveloping scent.
The deep base notes of musk, vetiver, and balsam fir offer warmth and depth, which resonate well in chilly environments.
While not a versatile fragrance, I can see men wearing “L” when they want to make a statement with their scent, whether in professional settings, formal events, or special occasions, and it is a valuable addition to any fragrance collection.
SEASONS: Fall and Winter
OCCASIONS: Business and Special Occasions
ATTIRE: Tuxedo, Tailored suits, Three-piece suits, Formal wear
UNIQUENESS AND VALUE FOR MONEY
The scent combines woody, spicy, and floral elements not commonly found in mainstream or high-end fragrances.
This complex layering creates an evolving fragrance, providing a rich and multifaceted scent experience.
L for Men is a luxury niche fragrance, and its price reflects this. It is priced higher than many other designer and niche perfumes, positioning it in the luxury market.
Regardless of its many high points, I do not believe any perfume in this world is worth over $400.00, especially for a 50ml bottle.
This is its lowest point, making it inaccessible to many fragrance connoisseurs.
UNIQUENESS: 5/5
PRESENTATION: 5/5
VALUE FOR MONEY: 6/10
PROS AND CONS
Each composition brings charm, complexities, and shortcomings to the diverse perfume landscape.
Exploring the pros and cons provides a comprehensive view, aiding fragrance enthusiasts in their quest for the perfect olfactory experience.
Understanding these nuances allows you to make a more well-informed choice, ensuring a tailored match for individual tastes.
Pros
- One of the best formal fragrances on the market
- Excellent longevity and projection
- High-quality ingredients
- Unique and complex composition
- Excellent presentation
Cons
- Laughably high retail price point
- Limited wearability
- Not for those just entering this fragrance hobby
COLLECTION & SIMILAR PERFUMES
Clive Christian L For Men is part of the “Private Collection,” which says “Exploring a life written in perfume from the key qualities that colour the world of Clive Christian Perfume. A precious and private moment, written in time, a story told in perfume.”
This collection started in 2010 and currently includes five different fragrances, the latest being “E for Men.”
COLLECTION
- Clive Christian C For Men – a woody oriental fragrance released in 2017. The main notes include leather, tobacco, and oud. The lasting power is between 10 – 12 hours with great projection.
- Clive Christian V For Men – an oriental musk fragrance released in 2017. The main notes include olibanum, musk, and tonka bean. The lasting power is 24+ hours with great projection.
SIMILAR PERFUMES AND ALTERNATIVES
- Dior Granville – a citrus aromatic fragrance released in 2010. The main notes include pine tree, lemons, and rosemary. The lasting power is between 4 – 6 hours with moderate projection.
- Armaf Eternia Man – a woody aromatic fragrance released in 2013. The main notes include vetiver, cypress, and black pepper. The lasting power is between 6 – 8 hours with moderate projection.
- Cartier Declaration – a woody, spicy fragrance released in 1998. The main notes include cardamom, bitter orange, and caraway. The lasting power is between 6 – 8 hours with moderate projection.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
- Serge Lutens Fille en Aiguilles – a woody aromatic fragrance released in 2009. The main notes include pine, incense, and dried fruits. The lasting power is between 6 – 8 hours with moderate projection.
FINAL WORDS
Clive Christian L For Men sets a high standard for an artistic fragrance. While the price may be too much for many, its experience is undeniably unique and memorable.
It’s a fragrance that embodies luxury, elegance, and a distinctly British charm, making it a valuable addition to any fragrance connoisseur’s collection.
I highly recommend exploring this exceptional creation.
What do you think about this article covering Clive Christian L For Men? Let’s start a conversation, and let me know in the comment section below.
If you are unsure whether to buy a fragrance, it is always a good decision to look at Scent Grail’s S.P.A. Signature Factor Guide.
It is easy to use and the most relevant perfume-buying guide on the web. This way, you can determine whether a particular fragrance is worth checking out and potentially find your signature perfume.
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Find out more Scent Grail articles about perfumery, check out top lists and other helpful reviews via the links below:
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TOP LISTS
- Top 10 Best Leather Perfumes Of All Time
- Top 10 Best Niche Perfumes For Winter
- Top 10 Best Niche Perfumes For Fall
- Top 10 Best Tom Ford Perfumes
- The 10 Best Classic Men’s Perfumes
- Top 10 Sexiest Men’s Fragrances
SCENT GRAIL LEARNING CENTER
- How To Start A Perfume Collection
- Designer Vs Niche Fragrances
- 10 Best Fragrance Discounters
- Fragrance Strengths & Perfume Concentrations
- How To Wear Perfume
- How To Start A Perfume Blog
Until next time, stay humble, and keep smelling great!
Best, Marin!
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