Van Cleef & Arpels 1976 EDP

F ££ Acquired

First

by Jean-Claude Ellena

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Van Cleef & Arpels First is an Eau de Parfum launched in 1976, created by Jean-Claude Ellena. First opens with Bergamot, Mandarin, Peach, and Raspberry, settles into a heart of Hyacinth, Rose, Jasmine, and Iris, and dries down to a base of Musk, Amber, Sandalwood, and Vetiver. Van Cleef & Arpels's First carries an Acquired verdict, a green-led wear.

A legendary aldehydic floral from the godfather of modern perfumery, Jean-Claude Ellena, before his signature minimalist style emerged. It's divisive - some call it dated, others a timeless masterpiece, a sophisticated classic championed by Princess Diana herself.
What our verdicts mean →
  • Elegant
  • Sophisticated
  • Classic
  • Confident
  • Feminine
£142.92 at Amazon 100ml Check price on → Check prices ↓
First 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
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
Also Works:
Summer

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

Best Occasions

Best For:
Date Formal

Its potent projection and complex, opulent character make it less suitable for a quiet office, but perfect for formal events or a sophisticated date night. While it can be worn casually, its 'grand dame' vibe makes it a statement rather than a relaxed everyday scent.

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
  • Sandalwood Santalol from Sandalwood
  • Synthetic musk Hexamethylindanopyran from Musk
  • Vanillin from Vanilla
  • Ylang-ylang Cananga Odorata Flower Extract from Ylang-Ylang

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

First bursts onto the scene with a bright, aldehydic sparkle, quickly joined by a juicy fruit medley of peach and blackcurrant. As it settles, a grand floral heart unfurls, showcasing rich narcissus, hyacinth, and jasmine, softened by orris. The base is an opulent tapestry of civet, honey, and oakmoss, lending a distinctive vintage warmth and sensuality.

Similar

Compare & Pair

Layer

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

Complement

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

Where to buy

Prices for the United Kingdom · · checked 23 September

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