Balenciaga 1998 EDP

F ££ Statement

Cristobal

by Olivier Gillotin

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Balenciaga Cristobal is an Eau de Parfum launched in 1998, created by Olivier Gillotin. Cristobal opens with Bergamot, Carnation, and Fig Leaf, settles into a heart of Jasmine, Peony, and Freesia, and dries down to a base of Sandalwood, Patchouli, and Vanilla. Balenciaga's Cristobal carries a Statement verdict, a green-led wear.

This discontinued gem is mourned by many, a plush, well-blended woody vanilla-floral that screams luxury. Its seamless composition and unique character have made it a mythical 'unicorn' for those who cherish its sophisticated, warm embrace.
What our verdicts mean →
  • Sophisticated
  • Elegant
  • Warm
  • Luxurious
  • Classic
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Cristobal Eau de Parfum bottle

Scent Profile

Composition

Timeline

Showing: Overall Blend

Top, heart and base are the brand's own listing, not a timing claim - the industry classifies a note by its character as much as by how fast it fades. Each curve here is modelled from that material's own volatility, so groups can overlap when a house lists long-lasting materials in its heart.

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Performance & Mood

Performance

Longevity
Moderate (4-6h)
Projection
Strong
Intensity
Strong

Mood

Mood Energising
Calming
Character Playful
Serious
Sentiment Uplifting
Brooding

When To Wear

Best Seasons

Best For:
Fall Winter

A cold-weather scent - best worn in winter and autumn.

Best Occasions

Best For:
Date Formal
Also Works:
Office

Its blend of classic florals and warm woods makes it quite versatile, often described as 'classy' and 'elegant' by users fitting for formal wear, dates or the office. However, its perceived sweetness and richness, especially in the drydown, means it might be a bit much for casual or active settings.

Declarable allergens

We derive these from the materials behind this fragrance's notes, not from the bottle. Each one is likely, not confirmed. The list is partial - the box can name others.

Declarable under EU Annex III

The large name is the everyday one. The small name is the INCI form on the box, so you can compare the two. Reactions differ between people. A patch-test panel is not a ranking of risk. How we derive this

About

Cristobal opens with a unique embrace of fig leaf and a gentle, peppery carnation, softened by bergamot's sparkle. This transitions effortlessly into a creamy bouquet of jasmine, peony, and freesia, before settling into a rich, velvety base of sandalwood, patchouli, and a non-foody vanilla. It's a sophisticated interplay of verdant freshness, soft florals, and warm, resinous woods.

Similar

Compare & Pair

Layer

Wear two at once. See what layers well with Cristobal Eau de Parfum - the blends worth trying, and how each one scores.

Complement

Round out the rotation. See what complements Cristobal Eau de Parfum - fragrances that pair with it, worn side by side.

Where to buy

Prices for the United Kingdom ·

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