Elie Saab 2014 EDP

U ££ Statement

Essence No. 2 Gardenia

by Francis Kurkdjian

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Elie Saab Essence No. 2 Gardenia is an Eau de Parfum launched in 2014, created by Francis Kurkdjian. Elie Saab's Essence No. 2 Gardenia carries a Statement verdict, a floral-led wear.

This is a polarising take on gardenia: some find it a sublime, realistic rendition, while others are baffled by its green, woody, or even 'burnt rubber' facets. Definitely one to try before you buy.
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Essence No. 2 Gardenia 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.

ScentArt

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Performance & Mood

Performance

Longevity
Long (6-10h)
Projection
Strong
Intensity
Strong

Mood

Mood Energising
Calming
Character Playful
Serious
Sentiment Uplifting
Brooding

When To Wear

Best Seasons

Best For:
Spring Summer
Also Works:
Fall

A warm-weather pick - at its best in spring and summer.

Best Occasions

Best For:
Date Formal
Also Works:
Casual

Its long-lasting nature and strong projection mean it's best suited for occasions where it can shine without overwhelming, like dates or evening events. While some find it versatile enough for daily wear, its intensity makes it less ideal for a conservative office setting.

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

Opens with an impactful, intensely floral hit of gardenia, bolstered by the sweet and slightly animalic tones of Egyptian jasmine. As it settles, a prominent woody core emerges, grounding the heady white florals with creamy sandalwood, which some perceive as green and earthy, others as a more classic, rich base. This scent aims for a natural gardenia experience, with a surprising depth that veers away from typical sweet or overtly feminine interpretations.

Similar

Compare & Pair

Layer

Wear two at once: the blends worth trying, how each one scores and where to spray See what layers well

Complement

Two people, two scents: what sits well beside it when you each wear your own See what pairs well

Where to buy

Prices for the United States ·

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Drawn from community reviews and editor-reviewed before publishing on . See our methodology and disclosure policy.