FRAGRANCE | Givenchy III EDT (1970s vintage): A strong and confident classic floral chypre

halfwhiteboy - Givenchy III EDT 01

Dating back to 1970 when it was first released, Givenchy III is a fitting showcase of what the perfume style was of that era. It's a women's fragrance that lists a whole lot of notes, which seemed to be norm at the time. It's loud and powerful, if a little a bossy. I understand that this was discontinued and then later reissued. I'm pretty sure it underwent some reformulation but I haven't tried that one. My splash bottle says it's made in France, which is consistent with what the box indicates. I tried to date my bottle and sought a little help from the trusty Raiders of the Lost Scent. So with no EMB code or barcode whatsoever, I believe it's from the 70s although I can't pin the exact year down. 

This vintage Givenchy III features a strong aldehydic floral opening with a mossy undercurrent. I can't pick them apart; all I know is that they're a bunch of different flowers, all in full bloom. The style is unmistakably from a bygone era, dated if you may. And for me, dated sounds good.

halfwhiteboy - Givenchy III EDT 02

There's a certain sweetness that seems to be emanating from both flowers and fruits although the fruitiness is fleeting. Similar to Givenchy Insensé, another floral from the same house but intended for men, the sweetness isn't thick and heavy, so instead of weighing the scent down, it buoys everything up. And while the scent remains bright, it is quite strong.

The florals continue projecting their fragrant beauty for about half an hour before more of the oakmoss slowly starts showing. Without doubt this note is a differentiating factor in many old-school fragrances, back when its use was still untethered by silly regulations. There's also an earthiness from vetiver working quietly in the background. Up close, though, I'm reminded of Ralph Lauren's Safari for Women because of its sweetish, light smokiness. With unquestionable longevity, this stuff just keeps on going. And it takes a while before it even begins to relax. 

For all its loud floral glory, the oakmoss and vetiver keep the scent balanced and might I say, unisex. Yes, in as much as I find the marketed to men Insensé very wearable for women, Givenchy III likewise works in reverse. It's a scent of confidence that fits any setting although I prefer it for daytime use. I also don't think it will work when the weather is too hot and humid. I can't speak for the current formulation but the vintage Givenchy III is certainly worth getting. 

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