Cheap Thrills Series: Karl Lagerfeld Classic Grey (Alexis Dadier, 2022)

 Scentrack: Yello – Vicious Games

It took a while for Lagerfeld to launch a new version of the old Classic masterpiece. To be more precise it took them 44 years to release a successor. When I saw the unusual note breakdown I was very excited. Does Classic Grey meet my expectations? Both yes and no. 

Source: Lagerfeld

The note breakdown is quite unusual for a contemporary fragrance. It does not follow the usual ambroxane-oriented path (kudos!!) and has a slightly retro vibe. Instead, the perfumer Alexis Dadier uses several woody aspects and paired them with a classic fougere lavender and unexpected laurel leaf and hazelnut note. Classic Grey opens up with a soft and artificial lavender note, accompanied by dissonant laurel leaf. The laurel leaf note might be a little bit off-putting, but to me is very reminiscent. It reminds me of my childhood when Cetonia aurata bug visits a jasmine flower. It sounds pretty weird, but it is somehow comforting. The hazelnut note is also very interesting because it is trendy, but still not a gourmand. It has some roasted and sweet Mugleresque qualities we usually relate to autumn yet not foody enough. The hazelnut note seamlessly morphs into woody heart cedar and oak. The oak is a very interesting note when paired with vanilla giving a whisky barrel accord. The drydown is magnificent. The soft and milky sandalwood takes over and beautifully deepens the liquor accord in an exotic manner,   reminding me of suntan lotion.

So, what is the catch? Although the creative part of the composition is outstanding, unfortunately, it needs more cash put into it. The projection is subpar and the longevity is mediocre. The composition needs more depth. Still, I enjoy wearing it due to its reminiscent nature and creative potential. Personally, I would like to see an Eau de Parfum version bottled in 75 ml at double the price. It is up to you people from Lagerfeld to fulfill the true potential of this composition.


Longevity/ Projection

Mediocre (4-6 hrs) / Subpar


Suggested Wearing

Spring/Fall - Daytime


Alternatives

Hmm?


Pros

Originally designed

Several aspects of woods 


Cons

Strange laurel leaf note

Performance


Verdict

Very original, yet too soft and shy. Wishing for a more extreme version, but still, give it a chance.


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