Jil Sander 1993 EDT

M ££ Statement

Background

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Jil Sander Background is an Eau de Toilette launched in 1993. Background opens with Anise, Bergamot, Lemon, and Lavender, settles into a heart of Rose, Jasmine, Lily of the Valley, and Heliotrope, and dries down to a base of Musk, Amber, Cedar, and Sandalwood. Jil Sander's Background carries a Statement verdict, a sweet-led wear.

A cult classic with a loyal following, Background is a sophisticated, warm, and spicy powerhouse. It's a shame this distinctive scent was discontinued, as it's clearly still cherished by many.
What our verdicts mean →
  • Warm
  • Sophisticated
  • Classic
  • Elegant
  • Sensual
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Background Eau de Toilette 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
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 Fall Winter

Versatile across every season - no clear seasonal preference from wearers.

Best Occasions

Best For:
Date Formal
Also Works:
Casual

Given its long-lasting performance and strong sillage, this fragrance is best suited for evenings and special occasions where it can truly shine without overwhelming. While some consider it a year-round scent, its warmth makes it particularly apt for cooler weather and intimate 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.

In standard patch-test panels

Other declarable allergens

  • Bergamot Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Peel Oil from Bergamot
  • Bergamot Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Peel Oil from Bergamot
  • Bergamot Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Peel Oil from Bergamot
  • Lavender Lavandula Hybrida Oil from Lavender
  • Lavender Lavandula Hybrida Oil from Lavender
  • Lavender Lavandula Hybrida Oil from Lavender
  • Lavender Lavandula Hybrida Oil from Lavender
  • Lavender Lavandula Hybrida Oil from Lavender
  • Lavender Lavandula Hybrida Oil from Lavender
  • Lavender Lavandula Hybrida Oil from Lavender
  • Sandalwood Santalol from Sandalwood
  • Synthetic musk Hexamethylindanopyran from Musk
  • Vanillin from Vanilla

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

Background opens with an intriguing blend of anise and juicy raspberry, uplifted by zesty bergamot and fresh lavender. The heart unfolds into a rich tapestry of warm cinnamon, delicate rose, and powdery heliotrope, adding a touch of floral elegance. The journey culminates in a smooth, lingering base of creamy vanilla, tonka bean, amber, and a soft musk, creating a captivating and complex dry down.

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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.