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YSL Muse EDP Review: Ink, Iris and Quiet RebellionYSL Muse EDP Review

At a glance 4.2/5
Key notes
Ink accord
Ink accord
Orris concrete
Orris concrete
Bourbon vanilla
Bourbon vanilla
Ambrette
Ambrette
LongevityLong-lasting, typically around 6–8 hours
ProjectionNoticeable early, then more intimate
Sweetness levelCreamy vanilla balanced by dry ink

Smells similar to

YSL Muse Extrait de Parfum Similar vibe toYSL Muse Extrait de Parfum
82% similar

Wear it for

Evening
Date night
Formal
Cold weather

Scent character

FeminineUnisexMasculine
Unisex
WTN By Wear This Next 1 min read
YSL Muse EDP featured image

The quick answer

Is YSL Muse worth the price?

Muse is worth sampling if you want an iris fragrance that feels more artistic and androgynous than conventionally pretty. Its unusual ink accord gives it a memorable identity, although the mineral, smoky character is less universally appealing than a straightforward vanilla floral.

4.2/5 ★★★★★ Wear This Next editorial score

Scent structure

Official note breakdown

Top notes
Incense fragrance note
Incense
Ourika lavender fragrance note
Ourika lavender
Clary sage fragrance note
Clary sage
Heart notes
Orris concrete fragrance note
Orris concrete
Ambrette absolute fragrance note
Ambrette absolute
Bourbon vanilla absolute fragrance note
Bourbon vanilla absolute
Base notes
Ink accord fragrance note
Ink accord
Ambery woods accord fragrance note
Ambery woods accord

Why you may love it

  • Original and recognisable ink-and-iris signature
  • Sophisticated balance of powdery softness and smoky darkness
  • Strong longevity without constant heavy projection

Things to consider

  • The mineral ink accord may feel cold or challenging
  • Less immediately crowd-pleasing than mainstream YSL releases
  • Luxury pricing makes blind buying difficult to recommend

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