Van Cleef & Arpels 1976 EDT

F ££ Acquired

First

by Jean-Claude Ellena

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

A divisive classic, First embodies the opulent aldehyde florals of a bygone era. Some find it a timeless masterpiece, others a dated relic. If you love big, bold, "old money" scents, this could be your new signature - just don't expect it to smell like modern mainstream releases.
  • Sophisticated
  • Elegant
  • Classic
  • Luxurious
  • Confident
First Eau de Toilette bottle

Profile

Composition

Timeline

Showing: Overall Blend

Accords

Floral
100%
Powdery
72%
Woody
70%
Sweet
69%
Musky
63%
Animalic
63%

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:
Winter
Also Works:
Spring

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

Best Occasions

Best For:
Date Formal

Its potent floral-aldehyde profile, particularly in vintage extrait, makes it a bit much for casual wear or the office. This is a scent designed for making an entrance, excelling in formal settings and romantic evenings where its rich complexity can be appreciated.

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Layer

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Complement

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

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About

First by Van Cleef & Arpels opens with a shimmer of aldehydic brightness, quickly joined by juicy peach and tart blackcurrant. The heart unfurls into a grand bouquet of rich florals, with jasmine, rose, and tuberose taking centre stage, softened by powdery orris and creamy ylang-ylang. The base grounds the intensity with a warm embrace of honeyed musk, amber, and earthy oakmoss, hinting at a subtle, refined animalic depth.