
Scentonym Analysis
Our objective metric for performance per dollar.
The Scent Profile
Opera Noir kicks off with a candied pear note, quite prominent and almost jolly rancher-esque, unlike the YSL fragrance which is a bit more nuanced. The pink pepper is muted, barely a whisper, and the orange blossom adds a gentle sweetness. The heart attempts to mimic the coffee accord but leans closer to a burnt sugar note, with a medicinal almond lurking underneath. Jasmine is detectable, but it's a faint floral hum, overshadowed by the growing vanilla. The drydown is where it diverges further. The patchouli is subdued and the cedar is a generic woody base, leaving mostly a sweet vanilla impression with a hint of plastic. It's a simplified interpretation, lacking the depth and complexity of the inspiration.
Wear time & Sillage
I get about 5-6 hours of wear with Opera Noir. The projection is moderate for the first hour, extending about an arm's length. It quickly settles closer to the skin after that. I wore it on a casual date, and it was noticeable when I was in close proximity, but it didn't leave a trail.
Is it Worth It?
Opera Noir is best suited for someone who enjoys sweet gourmand scents and is looking for a simple, easy-to-wear fragrance. It's a safe choice for a student or young professional who wants a pleasant, inoffensive scent for everyday wear. Someone who likes sitting in coffee shops, reading novels, and having a cozy atmosphere. If you prefer depth and sophistication, you may find this too simplistic.
Performance Audit
Based on average wear time
Sillage & radius
Relative to market avg
Why we track this:
Price Arbitrage: Significant savings compared to the original Yves Saint Laurent pricing.
Community Verified: Cross-referenced against 149 enthusiast votes for accuracy.