Expensive-Smelling, Celebrity Adored and French—This TikTok-Trending Perfume Has a Lot Going for It
With a version for every mood, the YSL Libre lineup proves that one scent family can be anything but predictable.
Humaa Hussain
I could talk about perfume for hours. In fact, I could probably write a whole essay on the stuff. Whenever I am chatting to friends and family, I love to ask them what their go-to fragrances are, and I'm constantly searching TikTok for other people's recommendations. As a beauty editor, there really isn't anything better than finding out all about people's most-complimented scents and sharing them with you all (alongside my own recommendations, of course).
So, when I saw one particular perfume popping up on social media again and again, I immediately messaged the work group chat to get people's thoughts. As it turns out, it's also my editor's go-to fragrance. If you're wondering what scent I am talking about, it's none other than YSL Libre. This perfume is adored by influencers, TikTokers, beauty editors and celebrities (Dua Lipa has been the face of the fragrance since 2019), and it's not hard to see why. Not only does the branded YSL bottle look stunning on display, but the expensive-smelling perfume features a concoction of sensual notes.
Intrigued to know more? Keep on scrolling for my in-depth review...
Shop the YSL Libre:
The original Libre is bold, modern, and effortlessly cool. It's a perfect balance of soft florals and warm, sensual notes—think of it as the signature scent of someone who means business but still has fun doing it.
Key Notes: Lavender, orange blossom, jasmine, vanilla.
YSL Libre Perfume Review
The Notes
So, let's talk about the notes. What's interesting about this fragrance is that it combines typically masculine and feminine notes for a truly striking finish. Sensual orange blossom and rich, bold lavender are at the heart of the scent, with hints of vanilla and musk adding a slightly sweet, warm edge, It's a beautifully balanced, sophisticated fragrance that smells uber luxurious.
In fact, this perfume is so popular that there are now five different fragrances within the Libre collection. If you prefer a light, fresh scent, then I would recommend going for Libre Eau De Toilette, whereas those who prefer a more statement fragrance should opt for Libre Eau De Parfum Intense. Who What Wear UK's deputy editor, Maxine Eggenberger, is a big fan of the Libre Eau De Parfum Intense.
"I very seldom treat myself to a new perfume. When I say 'new perfume' I mean one I haven't worn before. And yet one day, when I arrived in town early to meet a friend, I took myself off to my local perfume counter to give myself a fresh tester spritz. By chance, I picked up YSL Libre and applied it to my wrists. Upon smelling it, I turned around, grabbed a boxed-up bottle and went straight to the check out.
“I don't know anyone who would describe me as a spontaneous person, so this was definitely uncharacteristic behaviour, but I was immediately hooked. I have the Intense blend, and its notes of vanilla, tonka bean, amber, vetiver and mandarin, among others, give it a warm, sultry payoff. When I smell it, I’m transported to an after-dark Parisian jazz club that’s only lit by candlelight and where the scent of Old Fashioned cocktails permeates the air. It’s fabulous, with a sweetness that isn’t too saccharine but enough to feel decadent.
“The first week I wore it, I received so many compliments on it—it’s definitely a people pleaser. My mum ordered it straight after stealing a spritz of mine in the bathroom of our favourite restaurant.”
The Longevity
If you're investing in a perfume, you want to make sure that it lasts. When it comes to this fragrance, you can be sure that people will be complimenting you all day long. In fact, when I was doing some research into the scent and reading customer reviews, I couldn't believe how many people commented on its impressive lasting powers.
One customer wrote, "Loved it so much that it was one of my wedding perfumes so had to restock! Would describe it as a very sexy, evening, and ultra-long wearing scent," while another added, "My clothes smell great for days and I get many compliments."
The Packaging
I couldn't talk about this fragrance and not mention the packaging. Housed in a clear bottle with a chic black lid, this perfume features the brand's iconic gold logo which means that you'll always want to have this scent on display. The bottle is also refillable which is a major plus.
To me, everything about this perfume exudes luxury, which is why I'll happily invest in the scent again and again.
Shop the YSL Libre Line:
Le Parfum is the richest and most opulent take on the Libre family. It dials up the intensity with a honeyed warmth and spice, making it ideal for evening wear or colder seasons.
Key Notes: Saffron, orange blossom, lavender, honey, vanilla.
A fresher, more delicate interpretation of the original, this EDT version is light and airy. Its ideal for daytime or warmer months when you want something clean and easy to wear.
Key Notes: Lavender, white tea, orange blossom, musk.
This newer addition is an ultra-refined, shimmering take on Libre. It retains the signature lavender–orange blossom DNA but adds aldehydes and a cool, metallic edge for a futuristic floral feel.
Key Notes: Aldehydes, lavender, orange blossom, white musk, ambergris accord.
Libre Intense is deeper and more seductive, with added amber and orchid that give it a richer, creamier finish. It's perfect if you love the original but want a bolder statement.
Key Notes: Lavender, orange blossom, orchid, tonka bean, ambergris.
The newest release in the Libre line, this one is more intimate and skin-like—think of it as a "your skin but better" scent. It's soft, subtly powdery, and designed to feel like a second skin.
Key Notes: Neroli, orange blossom, white musk, lavender.
The same iconic scent as the original EDP, but in a refill format to help you top up your bottle sustainably. No new notes here—just a smarter way to keep wearing it.
Key Notes: Lavender, orange blossom, jasmine, vanilla.
A lighter version of Libre designed specifically for hair. It subtly scents strands without drying them out, making it the perfect layering tool or way to refresh your fragrance throughout the day.
Key Notes: Lavender, orange blossom, vanilla.
