Far more than a simple masculine fragrance, Le Male by Jean-Paul Gaultier is a true icon in the world of perfumery. First of all, it was the couturier's very first perfume. Le Male was also the first creation by perfumer Francis Kurkdjian. Moreover, despite nearly 30 years of existence, Le Male Elixir by Jean-Paul Gaultier remains the house's undisputed best-seller. In 2023, it is therefore brought back into the spotlight. Still drawing inspiration from the maritime world, it becomes more sophisticated and infinitely chic, in its new edition Le Male Elixir by Jean-Paul Gaultier.
An atypical character nicknamed by many the enfant terrible of fashion, Jean-Paul Gaultier loves to surprise. As proof, he has never hesitated to send men down his runways in skirts or kilts. On the perfume side, it was in 1995 that he presented the very first version of Le Male, an aromatic fragrance built around lavender, with unmatched freshness and a surprising bottle shaped like a male torso. A true icon of men's perfumery, Le Male has never stopped making headlines since then. In 2023, it becomes Le Male Elixir. Here is our review.
Olfastory’s review
A more extravagant, sexy composition
Do not try to ignore it, Le Male Elixir by Jean-Paul Gaultier is designed to draw every eye toward it. This fragrance does not go unnoticed. As its name suggests, it is a true elixir, unfolding more amber, powerful and luxurious notes in its breath. Thoroughly warm, Le Male Elixir by Jean-Paul Gaultier does not forget its DNA. As such, it still contains lavender, the signature raw material of this line of fragrances. Timeless, this plant recalls the scent of old-fashioned barbershops. It is a typically masculine affectation, suited to absolutely every generation of men. Tonka bean, meanwhile, wraps the sillage of this sweet essence, adding a more almond-like touch to the whole, one that was also already found in the first version of Le Male by Jean-Paul Gaultier. If you are a lover of this historic fragrance but have always dreamed of adding more power and body to it, you will not be disappointed.
As for the bottle, opposites attract!
Finally, visually, Le Male Elixir is once again a genuine success. Like its predecessors, this fragrance comes in a very masculine, muscular glass torso. The bottle's virility is immediately apparent. It offers a perfect grip and comes in two sizes, 75 ml or 125 ml. What is more, it also seduces through its many paradoxes. Indeed, on one hand, Le Male Elixir plays at absolute sophistication. As proof, it now adopts a fully opaque, golden lacquer. It has thus become flashier than ever and seems to have put on its party attire. Yet it also retains a more relaxed side. As always, it sports the Breton stripe shirt. This is none other than the emblematic T-shirt of sailors. Moreover, this luxurious bottle comes in a repurposed tin can box. The whole is a perfect reflection of Jean-Paul Gaultier's unconventional spirit.
With its new fiery warmth and sophisticated look, Jean-Paul Gaultier's sailor seems to have been promoted. He fixes his gaze on the horizon with greater assurance. He has undeniably become the hero of the ship. Celebrated from stern to bow, he seems ready for one of the finest departures of his history.