Feminite du Bois, Christopher Sheldrake’s masterpiece for Shiseido before becoming an icon of Serge Lutens. A revolutionary use of cedarwood, creating one of the most deliciously enveloping scent profiles on the market today. There’s not a huge amount of difference between this and the Serge Lutens version, to my nose at least, other than the fact that this is noticeably gentler, smoother and a touch soapier. The Serge is bold and brash in its overdose of cedarwood, juicy plums and warm spices - they slap you round the face and don’t let up (in a good way), whereas the Shiseido is toned down; spicier and warmer, more of a skin scent if anything. People often go manic trying to get their hands on the ‘original’ formulation/edition of a perfume, but this is one of those rare cases where I think the follow-up was an improvement. The current Féminité is stronger, longer lasting and more indulgent whilst still retaining all of that glorious character.