Van Cleef & Arpels 1976 Edp

U ££

First

by Jean-Claude Ellena

Van Cleef & Arpels First is an Eau de Parfum launched in 1976, created by Jean-Claude Ellena. The fragrance opens with Peach, Blackcurrant, Aldehydes, and Raspberry, settles into a heart of Orris, Rose, Lily Of The Valley, and Jasmine, and dries down to a base of Civet, Honey, Vetiver, and Sandalwood.

Our verdict on First: Acquired

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.
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  • Elegant
  • Sophisticated
  • Classic
  • Confident
  • Feminine
First Eau de Parfum bottle

ScentArt

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Profile

Citrus Floral Fruity Green Sweet Warm Woody Earthy Animalic Fresh
Citrus 9%
Floral 32%
Fruity 14%
Green 8%
Sweet 27%
Warm 5%
Woody 8%
Earthy 8%
Animalic 10%
Fresh 15%

Mood Profile

Mood Energising
Calming
Character Playful
Serious
Sentiment Uplifting
Brooding

Accords

Floral
100%
Green
84%
Aldehydic
84%
White Floral
81%
Yellow Floral
76%

Notes

Top Notes

Aldehydes 27% Bergamot 15% Peach 15% Blackcurrant 15% Mandarin 14% Raspberry 14%

Heart Notes

Narcissus 13% Hyacinth 12% Jasmine 11% Lily Of The Valley 10% Carnation 10% Ylang-Ylang 10% Orris 9% Tuberose 9% Rose 9% Orchid 8%

Base Notes

Civet 13% Oakmoss 13% Honey 13% Musk 11% Amber 11% Sandalwood 11% Vetiver 10% Tonka Bean 10% Vanilla 9%

Performance

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

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.

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Where to buy

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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.

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