Balenciaga Paris

Paris by Balenciaga (2010)

Balenciaga Paris is the fragrance Charlotte Gainsbourg made famous: that powdery violet floral with a green edge, the kind of scent that feels both vintage and modern at once. Released in 2010 and crafted by Olivier Polge (the same nose now behind Chanel), Paris became a quiet cult favorite among women who appreciated florals with intellectual depth.

It was discontinued before Balenciaga’s 2025 perfume relaunch and did not make it into the new collection. Fans have been hunting for it since.

Our interpretation references the original 2010 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

How It Smells

The opening is violet leaves, green and slightly bitter, immediately recognizable. Pepper and pink pepper give it a quiet bite. There is something almost masculine about the first few minutes, then the florals soften everything.

Violet stays at the center throughout the heart, joined by peony and a soft floral lift that reads as elegant rather than romantic. Wherever you think classic floral perfumery, Paris pulls slightly to the left. The dry-down is woody and quietly powdery: cedarwood, vetiver, and clean musks lingering for hours like the memory of a tailored dress.

Notes

Top: Violet Leaves, Pink Pepper, Pepper
Heart: Violet, Peony, Jasmine, Lily of the Valley
Base: Cedarwood, Vetiver, Musk, Sandalwood

How Our Version Compares

What we captured is the violet-pepper-cedarwood DNA of the 2010 Paris, that specific green-floral-woody character that made it different from every other designer floral on the market. Built as Eau de Parfum at up to 40% concentration, lasting 7 to 9 hours on skin, longer on fabric.

Common Questions

Why is Balenciaga Paris discontinued?

Balenciaga discontinued its original perfume line in the years leading up to its 2025 relaunch. The new collection released in September 2025 does not include Paris, leaving fans to search resale markets for remaining bottles.

Is Paris too vintage for daily wear?

It has vintage-influenced character but is built on modern perfumery techniques. The violet-pepper-woody composition reads as sophisticated rather than old-fashioned.

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 Balenciaga’s Paris, but is not identical and is not affiliated with Balenciaga or Kering. All trademarks belong to their respective owners. Product names are used for reference only.