The Verdict

Scent Profile: Fresh citrus, floral, and musky with a woody base.  
Seasonality: Suitable for spring and summer.  
Sillage: Moderate, projecting up to 5 feet.  
Longevity: 10+ hours, with a soft skin scent lingering.  

Introduction

Gallivant is a niche fragrance brand that creates scents inspired by the essence of global cities. Istanbul EDP, part of their lineup, aims to capture the vibrant, airy, and slightly smoky atmosphere of Istanbul. Launched in 2017, this fragrance was created by perfumers Karine Chevalier and Georgia Navarro. It’s a scent that balances freshness with depth, making it both versatile and intriguing. Gallivant’s focus on creating wearable, destination-inspired fragrances is evident in Istanbul EDP, which offers a unique take on the city’s spirit.

Fragrance Notes  

Top Notes: Bergamot, Cardamom, Red Thyme
Middle Notes: lavender absolute, Egyptian Geranium Essence, Patchouli, Sweet Myrrh (opoponax) Essence
Base Notes: Sandalwood, Vanilla, Tonka Bean, Amber, Musks

Fragrance Profile

Istanbul EDP opens with a bright, zesty burst of bergamot, lemon, and orange juice, creating an immediate sense of freshness. The addition of incense and cardamom in the top notes adds a subtle smokiness and spice, grounding the citrus notes with a touch of depth. The fresh air and ozonic notes evoke a clean, airy feeling, reminiscent of a breezy day in Istanbul. As the fragrance develops, the heart reveals magnolia and orris root, which bring a soft, powdery floral quality. The transparent flowers add a delicate, almost ethereal touch to the heart. Finally, the base notes of musks, white woods, benzoin, and amber provide a warm, woody finish that lingers on the skin, balancing the initial freshness with a comforting warmth.

Occasion  

Istanbul EDP is a versatile fragrance suitable for a variety of occasions. Its fresh, airy opening makes it a great choice for daytime wear, whether for casual outings or office settings. The warm, woody base also makes it appropriate for evening wear, particularly in more relaxed, intimate settings. It’s a unisex fragrance that can be worn by anyone looking for a balanced, approachable scent.

Season  

This fragrance shines in spring and summer when its fresh, citrusy opening complements the season’s lightness and warmth. The ozonic and airy notes make it particularly refreshing in warmer weather, while the musky, woody base ensures it doesn’t feel too fleeting. It’s less suited for the colder months, where its fresh character might feel out of place.

Performance  

Istanbul EDP performs well, evolving gracefully from its fresh, citrusy opening to its warm, woody base. The transition is smooth, and the fragrance remains interesting throughout its lifespan. It’s neither too heavy nor too light, striking a perfect balance that makes it suitable for various occasions.

Longevity  

Lasting 10+ hours.

Sillage 

Moderate, projecting up to 5 feet. 

Conclusion  

Gallivant Istanbul EDP is a fresh, airy fragrance that captures the essence of Istanbul with a blend of citrus, florals, and musky woods. It’s a versatile scent that works well in spring and summer, offering a unique balance of freshness and warmth. Gallivant has once again succeeded in translating the spirit of a city into a bottle, and Istanbul EDP is a testament to the brand’s ability to create evocative, wearable fragrances.