Special for Gentlemen is what a classy man should wear. And a classy woman for that matter. Forget the gentleman, this is a special cologne/fragrance/perfume done in the old fougere style a la Jicky, and therefore reminiscent of Shalimar as well. As much as I love Jicky, and it's bracing lavender/vanilla combo, I'm lucky if I get 30 minutes out of it. So it's my go to instant pick me up before I wear something that I can actually smell when I finish getting dressed. Enter Special for Gentlemen. Unaware of the brand I blindly tested this, hoping to find a fresh fougere. The immediate opening was Jicky on steroids, what I hope mr. Wasser will do with Jicky soon. Lavender and vanilla galore, with a citrus touch to add freshness and sparkle. Creamy, aloof, put together. A perfect dandy scent. A perfect lady coiffed and dressed to the 9s scent! The opening goes for about an hour on my skin, I'm able to indulge in the goodness without feeling like I'm wearing a lavender ice cream. The heart notes are mostly lost on me, a very hazy floral gives of a 50s feeling that goes well with the picture in my mind; black and white movie, set in the Italian Riviera. Or Paris. Or my bedroom! The drydown is where Shalimar enters the picture. Whereas Jicky has a pronounced civet base, here I get the leather and castoreum of Shalimar, draped in oppoponax but very creamy courtesy of vanilla. And it lasts for a good 7 hours, with above moderate sillage, especially if applied freely. Smelling it next to the 2 Guerlain's, it feels of the family. But it also has its own character, only taking the best of the 2 and giving it a unique touch. If you love Jicky and lament it's poor staying power, or love Shalimar, give it a try. And bonus points for being able to smell it at the end of the day. Or at least the creamy leather that clings on skin forever. Excellent introduction to the brand. I hope the rest of the collection is as good!