Vs.
I’ve had a couple of people ask me whether I prefer Shalimar or Samsara. It’s a fair question – they’re both by Guerlain, they’re both Oriental, and if you’re short on cash or on dresser space, you might only want one.
Guerlain introduced Samsara in 1989 and it definitely has a new-age feel to it. The road to inner peace, Samsara is Sanskrit for eternal rebirth and is symbolized by the wheel of life. An Oriental comprised of jasmine, tonka bean, and sandalwood --- instant serenity, sensuality, and certainty.
This is a heavy, gorgeous scent that would keep you warm on a winter night.Shalimar -
A classic since 1925, Shalimar, like the Taj Mahal, is inspired by the Shah Jahan's legendary love for his wife. Starts with a fresh citrusy top note and drifts into the sensual warmth of a bergamot, iris, vanilla, and tonka bean base.
If Samsara is warm, then Shalimar by contrast is cool and elegant. I also noticed roses in the middle notes of this one. Another gorgeous fragrance to wear with your cashmere sweaters.
The Verdict -
So, which would I buy if I could only buy just one? I would probably buy Samsara since I love them both, the deciding factor would be that I enjoy unique scents and don't want to be wearing something that everyone would recognize. Shalimar has been around long enough that many people have a memory of some kind attached to it. This can be a good thing, but I like unique fragrances because I like to create new memories and associations.
Of course, what's important to you in a perfume may be entirely different, and I hope it is. That's why we sell over 600 different products. Wouldn't it be boring if we all smelled the same?
