Contradiction

Contradiction by Calvin Klein (1997)

Released in 1997 and co-crafted by master perfumers Carlos Benaïm and Pierre Wargnye, Calvin Klein Contradiction was one of the brand’s most distinctive feminine releases. Built around lemon, citrus, coriander, lavender, nutmeg, sandalwood, and musk, this Floral Spicy composition captured the active urban modern woman of the late 1990s. The unusual eucalyptus-tinged composition with woody-spicy base distinguished Contradiction from typical Calvin Klein launches of the era.

Contradiction has been discontinued from Calvin Klein’s main catalog. Per Parfumo’s official reference, “the production was apparently discontinued.” Customer reviews from late 2024 and 2025 consistently mourn the discontinuation, with one Perfume.com reviewer stating “I was really sad when Calvin Klein took it off the main market. It is one of my favorite perfumes.” Authentic bottles command rising prices on resale markets. Our interpretation references the original 1997 formulation as a long-lasting Eau de Parfum, made in the EU.

Bottle size: 50ml · Concentration: Eau de Parfum (up to 40% perfume oil) · Made in EU

The Carlos Benaïm Signature

Carlos Benaïm is one of the most respected perfumers in modern fragrance, known for compositions including Bvlgari Jasmin Noir, Polo Ralph Lauren, and many luxury releases. For Contradiction, his collaboration with Pierre Wargnye created a fragrance that critics described as “aromatic pseudo-chypre” for its distinctive eucalyptus-coriander character. The fragrance has become one of the most missed Calvin Klein discontinuations among fans.

How It Smells

The opening is immediately bright and slightly bitter with sparkling lemon, refreshing citrus, and aromatic coriander creating an unusual introduction. The eucalyptus-tinged character signals depth ahead. There is no shy citrus burst.

The heart introduces refined lavender and warm nutmeg, building the spicy character that distinguishes Contradiction from typical Calvin Klein feminines. The dry-down settles on smooth sandalwood and clean musks. A base that lingers on skin for hours with sophisticated, slightly woody-spicy, refined feminine depth.

Notes

Top: Lemon, Citrus, Coriander
Heart: Lavender, Nutmeg
Base: Sandalwood, Musk

How Our Version Compares

Our interpretation captures the lemon-citrus-coriander opening, lavender-nutmeg heart, and warm sandalwood-musk base that defined Calvin Klein Contradiction. Built as a long-lasting Eau de Parfum at up to 40% concentration, typically 7 to 9 hours on skin, longer on fabric.

Common Questions

Is Calvin Klein Contradiction discontinued?

Yes. The fragrance has been discontinued from Calvin Klein’s main catalog. Multiple sources including Parfumo, Fragrantica, and customer reviews confirm the discontinuation. Authentic bottles trade at premium prices on resale markets.

What makes Contradiction distinctive?

The unusual coriander-lavender-nutmeg combination over sandalwood-musk base creates an “aromatic pseudo-chypre” character rarely found in modern designer feminines. Critics described it as the only member of the classic CK collection to have been discontinued.

When is the best time to wear Contradiction?

Autumn and winter especially. The warm woody-spicy base really comes through in cool weather. Office and evening wearable.

How long does this fragrance last on the skin?

Typically 7 to 9 hours on skin, longer on clothing.

Comparative Advertising Disclaimer: This product is inspired by and compared to Calvin Klein’s Contradiction, but is not identical and is not affiliated with Calvin Klein or Coty. All trademarks belong to their respective owners. Product names are used for reference only.