About the Fragrance
Ivoire de Balmain was one of Pierre Balmain’s final major fragrance statements and quickly became one of the house’s defining perfumes. Balmain archive material records its presentation in September 1979, while contemporary accounts associate its ivory theme with the elegance and refinement at the heart of Pierre Balmain’s fashion world. What makes the original Ivoire so compelling is its contrast. It opens with a cool, almost immaculate sheen of aldehydes, galbanum and citrus, but underneath that polished surface lies a far more complex green chypre: iris, jasmine, rose and ylang-ylang surrounded by herbs and spice, then anchored by oakmoss, vetiver, patchouli and sandalwood. Vintage reviewers repeatedly describe it as cool, green, soapy, mossy and exceptionally polished, with a restrained elegance rather than the sheer volume of many perfumes that followed in the 1980s. The original formula is also quite different in character from the substantially reworked 2012 version. Bois de Jasmin notes that the later interpretation softened the sharper aldehydic and green edges and reduced the darker patchouli character of the vintage perfume. This bottle therefore represents the earlier Ivoire style that vintage collectors recognise.
Fragrance Profile
Top Notes: Bergamot, Mandarin, Neroli, Galbanum, Violet Leaf
Heart Notes: Carnation, Iris, Rose, Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, Marigold, Nutmeg
Base Notes: Oakmoss, Vetiver, Patchouli, Sandalwood, Tonka Bean, Vanilla
Fragrance notes are based on seller research and reliable published references. Vintage compositions, batches and scent presentation may vary.
Condition Notes
This listing is for the exact item shown in the photographs. The fragrance remains factory sealed in its original black-and-gold striped presentation. This is an older pre-barcode example. Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the product description.
Important Notice
As with all vintage, discontinued or older fragrances, minor variations in colour, scent or performance may occur due to age and storage history. Please review all photographs carefully before purchasing, as they form part of the product description.
Brand Disclaimer
Scent Reminiscent is an independent retailer and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Pierre Balmain. All trademarks remain the property of their respective owners and are used only to identify the genuine product being offered for sale.
