ysl manifesto perfume review | manifesto perfume YSL gift set

Yves Saint Laurent's Manifesto. The name itself evokes a sense of bold declaration, a defiant statement of femininity. When it launched, it promised a fragrance that captured the essence of daring, independence, and a touch of the unexpected. But in a world of ever-evolving fragrance trends, where does Manifesto stand today? And more importantly, is it still worth the hunt, considering its discontinued status? This comprehensive review will delve into every facet of YSL Manifesto, exploring its scent profile, longevity, sillage, availability, price, and overall appeal. We'll also address common queries surrounding its discontinuation, potential alternatives, and where you might still find it.

The Scent: A Symphony of Boldness and Sweetness

Manifesto is classified as an oriental floral fragrance, but its complexity goes beyond a simple categorization. The initial impression is a burst of vibrant green notes, primarily blackcurrant bud (cassis). This isn't the sugary-sweet blackcurrant of some perfumes; instead, it offers a slightly tart, almost vegetal freshness that awakens the senses. This initial greenness is quickly tempered by the heart of the fragrance, where the creamy, almost intoxicating sweetness of vanilla takes center stage.

However, this isn't your typical gourmand vanilla. It's a sophisticated vanilla, nuanced and layered. The addition of tonka bean adds a powdery, slightly almond-like sweetness that complements the vanilla beautifully. Jasmine sambac, a particularly potent and intoxicating variety of jasmine, weaves its way through the heart, adding a touch of floral elegance and preventing the vanilla from becoming overly cloying.

The base of Manifesto provides a grounding warmth and depth. Sandalwood offers a creamy, woody foundation, while cedar adds a touch of dryness and sophistication. The presence of cashmeran, a synthetic musk, contributes a velvety texture and a subtle warmth that lingers on the skin long after the initial notes have faded.

In summary, the scent progression of YSL Manifesto can be described as follows:

* Top Notes: Blackcurrant bud (cassis), Bergamot

* Heart Notes: Jasmine Sambac, Lily of the Valley

* Base Notes: Vanilla, Tonka Bean, Sandalwood, Cedar, Cashmeran

Longevity and Sillage: A Lasting Impression

One of the most lauded aspects of YSL Manifesto is its impressive longevity. On most skin types, it lasts for a solid 6-8 hours, and on clothing, it can linger for days. This makes it an excellent choice for evening wear or special occasions when you want your fragrance to make a statement and last throughout the night.

The sillage, or projection, of Manifesto is moderate to strong. It leaves a noticeable trail without being overpowering or offensive. It's a fragrance that gets you noticed, but in a sophisticated and alluring way. You won't fill a room with it, but those who get close will definitely appreciate its captivating aroma.

The Bottle: A Sculptural Masterpiece

The bottle of YSL Manifesto is as striking and unique as the fragrance itself. Its sleek, elongated shape is adorned with a jewel-toned amethyst "waistband" that evokes the iconic YSL belt. The gold cap adds a touch of luxury and elegance. The overall design is modern, sophisticated, and undeniably eye-catching. It's a bottle that you'll be proud to display on your vanity.

Why the Discontinuation? A Mystery Unveiled

The discontinuation of YSL Manifesto remains a source of frustration for many fragrance enthusiasts. While Yves Saint Laurent has not officially released a statement explaining the decision, several factors likely contributed to its demise:

* Changing Trends: The fragrance market is constantly evolving, and what was popular a few years ago might not be as desirable today. Perfume houses often discontinue fragrances to make room for new releases that align with current trends.

* Ingredient Costs: Certain ingredients used in Manifesto, such as jasmine sambac and high-quality vanilla, can be expensive to source. The cost of production may have become unsustainable, leading to its discontinuation.

* Sales Performance: While Manifesto had a dedicated following, its overall sales performance may not have met YSL's expectations. Fragrance houses often prioritize their best-selling scents, leading to the discontinuation of less popular ones.

* Brand Strategy: Sometimes, discontinuing a fragrance is part of a broader brand strategy to reposition the brand or focus on specific product lines.

Regardless of the exact reason, the discontinuation of Manifesto has made it a highly sought-after fragrance on the secondary market.

Finding Manifesto Today: The Hunt for a Discontinued Gem

Given its discontinued status, finding YSL Manifesto can be a challenge, but not impossible. Here are some places where you might still be able to find it:

* Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Mercari, and Depop are good places to start your search. However, be cautious when buying from these platforms, as there is a risk of encountering counterfeit products. Always check the seller's ratings and reviews before making a purchase.