Lilac is notoriously difficult to capture in fragrance; in En Passant, Frédéric Malle and perfumer Olivia Giacobetti frame it with cucumber, galbanum, and watery notes before lily of the valley and honey add depth, for anyone.
Olivia Giacobetti composed En Passant in 2000 as one of the founding releases of Frédéric Malle's Editions de Parfums. The title means "in passing" in French, a reference to something fleeting and easily missed. The cucumber, galbanum, and watery opening creates an aqueous, cool atmosphere: clean and slightly green, suggesting rain on foliage.
Lilac in the heart is the composition's defining achievement. A difficult note to reproduce with accuracy, Giacobetti's lilac accord reads as convincingly natural rather than synthetic. Lily of the valley and petitgrain support the lilac; jasmine and honey add warmth that prevents the floral from remaining purely cool. White musk and wheat in the base are soft and close to the skin; cedar and sandalwood add structure. Longevity is six to eight hours.
En Passant suits spring from daytime through early evening. The lilac and watery notes read most clearly in mild, damp conditions. Suited to casual occasions and outdoor settings.
