perfume yves saint laurent nu | yves Saint Laurent perfume shop

Nu. Just the name itself evokes a sense of mystery, of unveiling, of the raw and powerful feminine spirit. Launched in 2001 by Yves Saint Laurent, Nu was more than just a perfume; it was a statement. A bold departure from the sweeter, more floral scents that dominated the market, Nu embraced a spicy, oriental composition that challenged conventions and captivated a generation. Created by the renowned perfumer Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, Nu quickly became a cult classic, adored for its unique character and undeniable allure. Sadly, Nu was discontinued, leaving a void in the fragrance world and a yearning among its devoted followers. This article delves deep into the essence of Nu, exploring its composition, its legacy, and why it continues to be sought after years after its disappearance from shelves.

A Symphony of Spice and Shadow: Decoding the Nu Composition

Nu is classified as an Oriental Spicy fragrance for women, but that categorization only scratches the surface. It's a complex and multifaceted scent that unfolds in layers, revealing different facets of its personality with each passing hour. The fragrance pyramid is carefully constructed to create a harmonious yet intriguing olfactory experience:

* Top Notes: The initial impression of Nu is a burst of invigorating spice. Cardamom takes center stage, its aromatic and slightly peppery notes providing a warm and inviting opening. The full list of top notes includes:

* Cardamom: Provides a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet opening.

* Bergamot: Adds a touch of citrusy brightness and lift.

* Lavender: Contributes a herbal, calming, and slightly floral nuance.

* Heart Notes: As the top notes subside, the heart of Nu begins to emerge, revealing a blend of incense, orris root, and jasmine. This combination creates a smoky, powdery, and floral accord that is both sensual and sophisticated.

* Incense: Lends a mystical, smoky, and resinous quality to the fragrance.

* Orris Root: Imparts a powdery, earthy, and slightly sweet aroma.

* Jasmine: Adds a touch of floral sweetness and elegance.

* Base Notes: The base of Nu is where the fragrance truly comes into its own, offering a deep and lasting impression. Sandalwood, musk, and vanilla create a warm, woody, and sensual foundation that lingers on the skin for hours.

* Sandalwood: Provides a creamy, woody, and grounding base.

* Musk: Adds a sensual, animalic, and slightly powdery note.

* Vanilla: Contributes a sweet, warm, and comforting aroma.

* Patchouli: Lends an earthy, woody, and slightly sweet aroma.perfume yves saint laurent nu

The interplay of these notes is what makes Nu so unique. The cardamom and bergamot provide a bright and spicy opening, while the incense and orris root create a mysterious and powdery heart. The sandalwood, musk, and vanilla base adds a warm and sensual depth that lingers on the skin. The overall effect is a fragrance that is both alluring and sophisticated, perfect for the confident and independent woman.

Why Nu Stood Out: Beyond the Fragrance Pyramid

Nu's appeal went beyond its carefully crafted composition. It resonated with women who were looking for something different, something that challenged the status quo. In a market saturated with sweet and floral fragrances, Nu offered a bold and unconventional alternative. Its spicy, oriental character was both intriguing and empowering, appealing to women who wanted to express their individuality and strength.

Several factors contributed to Nu's unique appeal:

* The Jacques Cavallier Belletrud Factor: The nose behind Nu, Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, is a master perfumer known for his innovative and daring creations. His expertise and vision were instrumental in creating a fragrance that was both complex and harmonious. He is now the in-house perfumer for Louis Vuitton, further solidifying his legendary status.

* The Bold Packaging: Nu's packaging reflected the fragrance's unconventional character. The sleek, silver bottle with its minimalist design was a departure from the ornate and feminine packaging that was common at the time. The bottle itself felt substantial and luxurious, reflecting the quality of the fragrance within.

* The Marketing Campaign: The marketing campaign for Nu was equally bold and provocative. Featuring a striking image of a woman with a shaved head, the campaign challenged traditional notions of beauty and femininity. It sent a message that Nu was a fragrance for women who were confident, independent, and unafraid to express themselves.

The Discontinuation and the Legacy: A Cult Classic is Born

Despite its popularity and critical acclaim, Nu was discontinued by Yves Saint Laurent. The reasons for its discontinuation remain unclear, but it is likely due to a combination of factors, including changing market trends and the cost of sourcing the high-quality ingredients used in the fragrance.

The discontinuation of Nu sparked outrage among its devoted followers. Online forums and social media groups were flooded with messages of disappointment and pleas for Yves Saint Laurent to bring back the fragrance. A petition was even launched to try and persuade the company to reconsider its decision.