Charlie by Revlon c1973

Charlie by Revlon: launched in 1973. Charlie is the legendary Revlon perfume.  

Charlie was touted by its creators to be a fragrance "that breaks the rules." 

Fragrance Composition:

It is classified as an aldehydic floral fragrance for women. A mixed floral with green amber undertones. It begins with a fresh green top, followed by a light floral heart, resting on a sensual powdery base.

• Top notes: mandarin, aldehydes, bergamot, chamomile, citrus oils, estragon, galbanum absolute, gardenia, lemon blossom, hyacinth and peach 
• Middle notes: ylang ylang, violet, geranium, coriander, jasmine, white lily, rose, orris, lily-of-the-valley, cyclamen and carnation 
• Base notes: vetiver, vanilla, sandalwood, oakmoss, musk and cedar

Scent Profile:

As you first experience Charlie by Revlon, the fragrance immediately greets you with a burst of fresh green notes. The initial impression is dominated by the vibrant, citrusy zest of mandarin and lemon blossom, which provide a bright, uplifting start. The presence of aldehydes adds a sparkling, effervescent quality, giving the fragrance an almost champagne-like fizz. The aromatic scent of chamomile weaves through the top notes, offering a soft, herbal warmth that is both soothing and fresh. This is complemented by the crisp, slightly bitter edge of bergamot and the unique, green freshness of galbanum absolute, which adds a deeper, resinous undertone. The hint of gardenia introduces a creamy, floral sweetness, while the delicate essence of peach lends a subtle, juicy fruitiness.

As the fragrance settles into its heart, a bouquet of delicate florals takes center stage. Ylang-ylang brings its exotic, creamy floral aroma, mingling with the soft, powdery scent of violet and the subtle spiciness of coriander. The scent of jasmine emerges, rich and opulent, accompanied by the fresh, dewy quality of lily-of-the-valley. Rose petals contribute a classic, romantic floral note, while the orris root adds a powdery, slightly earthy nuance. The heart is rounded out with the cool, aquatic freshness of cyclamen and the soft, spicy warmth of carnation, creating a layered and complex floral experience.

In the drydown, the fragrance reveals its warm, sensual base. Vetiver introduces a smoky, earthy tone that adds depth and sophistication. The creamy sweetness of vanilla mingles with the smooth, woody scent of sandalwood, creating a comforting, almost gourmand feel. Oakmoss brings a rich, forest-like quality, grounding the fragrance with its deep, green complexity. Finally, musk adds a soft, animalic warmth, while cedarwood provides a dry, woody finish, leaving a lasting impression that is both elegant and enduring.

Overall, Charlie by Revlon is a beautifully balanced fragrance, blending fresh green notes, delicate florals, and a warm, sensual base. It is both classic and contemporary, capturing a sense of timeless elegance with a modern twist.

This perfume was the FiFi winner in 1974.

Fate of the Fragrance:

As of 2024. the fragrance, although reformulated many times, is still in production.