L’interdit is described as white flowers with a “dark accord” which I’m thinking Givenchy is referring to as seductive. L’Interdit Eau de Parfum was developed in the 1950s for Audrey Hepburn, who wore it exclusively for a year before it was released in 1957 (a great year for Chevy, also). Givenchy and Hepburn had a tight relationship – they basically dressed her and she became the first actress to ever be “the face” of a perfume. Pretty cool.
This is a sweet, feminine, flowery fragrance, with a sexy little undertone. To be entirely honest, the fragrance notes do not change over time when I wear it. All day, I can smell the same components, but after many hours, they will wane. I get the orange blossom, sweet jasmine and patchouli. I’m sure there are other components in there. It is quite sweet smelling, but in a more flowery rather than fruity tone.
Interdit means forbidden in Francais. I can see where that fits in the mid 1950’s and still fits in as a fragrance classic today. I’ve been glad to have this in my repertoire for many years (this may not be my first or second bottle) – it’s a sweet, sexy feminine floral.