Le Labo Santal 33 has secured its place as a cult favorite in the fragrance world, beloved by both perfume enthusiasts and luxury connoisseurs alike. This unisex scent, praised for its bold yet comforting blend, strikes the perfect balance between modern allure and timeless craftsmanship. Celebrities like Mingyu of Seventeen, Minhyuk of Monsta X, and Hwang Minhyun are known fans of this iconic perfume, adding to its growing popularity. In this Le Labo Santal 33 review, we’ll explore what it smells like, its longevity, and whether it truly lives up to its legendary reputation.
Scent Profile
Santal 33 has a rich, woody aroma, dominated by sandalwood—a note that brings warmth, depth, and complexity. And it is indeed complex, I find its scent an acquired taste.
Upon the first spray, you’re greeted by an intoxicating blend of cardamom and iris, which adds a light, spicy floral touch to the opening. These top notes transition seamlessly into the heart of the fragrance, where violet and papyrus take center stage, balancing out the woodiness with a green, slightly powdery accord.
At its base, the creamy and smoky sandalwood note merges with cedarwood, amber, and leather to create a scent that is both earthy and sensual. This combination gives Santal 33 a rugged yet sophisticated aura, making it a versatile scent that can easily be worn during both casual outings and more formal events, especially in cooler weather. This can be worn in an office setting too or out for a night on the town.
Longevity and Sillage
One of the standout features of Le Labo Santal 33 is its impressive longevity. A few sprays will last you through an entire day, and even linger into the evening without the need for reapplication. The fragrance’s sillage is equally remarkable. While it’s not overpowering, it has a soft but noticeable presence, leaving a trail that subtly draws people in.
This perfume strikes the perfect balance between being noticeable and not overwhelming, making it ideal for those who want to make an impression without being too assertive.
Packaging
Le Labo is known for its minimalist aesthetic, and Santal 33 is no exception. The perfume is housed in a simple, apothecary-style glass bottle that emphasizes the brand’s artisanal approach to fragrance making. Each bottle is labeled with the name of the scent, the number like the “33” in this one signifies the exact number of ingredients that it has, and the location where it was created, adding a personal touch that enhances the overall experience.
The understated packaging aligns perfectly with the brand’s ethos—letting the fragrance speak for itself rather than relying on flashy designs.
Price
With a price point that places it firmly in the luxury fragrance category, Santal 33 is certainly an investment. However, for those who appreciate high-quality, niche perfumes, I think it’s worth every penny. The perfume’s longevity means you won’t need to use much, so a bottle will last longer than many other fragrances in your collection. If you don’t want to invest in a full bottle yet, purchase a decant. I got mine from Unbox Diaries. There’s also an option for a perfume subscription like Omniscent.
Final Verdict
Le Labo Santal 33 has maintained its popularity for a reason. Its unique, intoxicating blend of sandalwood, leather, and floral notes sets it apart from mainstream fragrances. While it performs beautifully in colder weather, it can feel too heavy or cloying in warm or humid climates. It may not be the best choice for those who live in tropical areas or during the summer.
However, due to its popularity, Santal 33 has become a recognizable fragrance, especially in metropolitan areas. Its ubiquity in high-end fashion circles and among influencers might make it feel less unique to some. But this perfume pairs beautifully with other fragrances, allowing wearers to create custom scent combinations. Its woody base makes it a great foundation for layering with floral or citrus notes.
The versatility, longevity, and luxurious packaging make it a fragrance that is not just trendy but timeless. If you’re looking to add a signature scent to your collection, Santal 33 is well worth considering.
VERDICTMY THOUGHTSLe Labo Santal 33 bold, long-lasting scent appeals to those who appreciate a woody, smoky fragrance with a modern twist. The scent may not appeal to those who prefer lighter, fresher fragrances. Some people might find it too bold or overpowering, especially for daytime wear. While the price and its growing popularity may be a drawback, the Santal 33 is worth it if you're seeking a complex, high-quality, and gender-neutral fragrances with a touch of sophistication.PROSLong-lasting performanceUnisex appealLayering potentialCONSHigh price pointCommon and overused in certain circlesToo bold and overpowering for some people.4PRODUCT RATINGWhere to buy?Greenbelt 5Cult Beauty UK—""""""""
