WHAT I SMELL:  Le Lion goes on the skin with an ambered bergamot and lemon that is tinged with patchouli in an opening that is is warm, yet light and inviting.  There is no mistake that the DNA of Le Lion is aligned with Guerlain’s classic Shalimar.  But to me, the biggest difference is the lemon and citrus which remains front and center which lifts the perfume up to something that is lighter, a tad brighter and much more approachable and easy to wear.  Le Lion doesn’t morph all that much, but as it does wear, a puttied sandalwood makes it way under the other notes and the entire composition begins to lighten.

From the Chanel website:

Gabrielle Chanel was born on August 19, 1883, under the sign of Leo. Majestic, indomitable and wild, the lion is more than just her astrological symbol; it also embodies Mademoiselle’s radiant personality and serves as inspiration for this powerful fragrance.

Faceted with a rich amber accord and featuring bold notes of bergamot, lemon, patchouli and sandalwood, the scent evokes the spirit of CHANEL.

WHAT IT SMELLS LIKE TO ME:  A chill lion.  Modern; made for today.

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE LE LION:  comfortable, easy, Shalimar-lite

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT LE LION:  Persolaise, The Black Narcissus, Now Smell This

BOTTOM LINE:  I like Le Lion and could see myself wearing this often as it’s an amber perfume that doesn’t set out to be too heavy.  The citrus remains afloat above the patchouli and sandalwood to give it just enough of that clean Chanel finish that is so easy to love.

• Bone Rating:  4 out of possible 5 bones
• Scent:  Amber
• Nose:  Olivier Polge
• Classification: Unisex
• Expense: $200 for 2.5 oz. eau de parfum