Shanghai Lily is a study in texture, offering a smooth and velvety interpretation of a spiced floral that feels atmospheric rather than aggressive. Despite the name, the fragrance doesn’t rely on a li...
The fragrance is widely praised for its high-quality composition and "smooth texture," with enthusiasts often citing it as an exception to the brand's more polarizing releases.
Performance is a point of contention: while many enjoy its longevity, others find the projection to be more "muted" and intimate after the first hour, describing it as a skin-hugging fragrance rather than a room-filler.
It is frequently compared to a more refined, modern, and floral-centric version of vintage YSL Opium, stripped of its 1970s "beast mode" heaviness.
Most users recommend this for cooler months, specifically fall and winter evenings, as the resins and spices can feel too heavy or "thick" in high summer heat.
Because it has been discontinued, the value of remaining bottles has become a debate, with some collectors considering it a "must-have" masterpiece and others arguing that the price on the secondary market is too steep for the performance.