By Kilian Yes I Was Madly In Love But That Was Yesterday
By Kilian's Yes I Was Madly In Love But That Was Yesterday is a fragrance that wears its heart on its sleeve—or rather, on its bottle. The name itself is a narrative, a whispered confession of a love that once burned bright but has since faded into memory. Released in 2018 under the creative direction of perfumer Pascal Gaurin, this scent is part of the house's tradition of olfactory storytelling, where each composition is a chapter in a larger book of desire, loss, and transformation.
The fragrance is built around a deceptively simple trio of notes: raspberry, white tobacco, and leather. Yet within this minimal framework, Gaurin constructs a complex emotional landscape. The raspberry is not merely fruity; it is a symbol of youthful passion, tart and sweet. The white tobacco introduces a dry, herbal sophistication, while the leather grounds the composition in sensuality and permanence. Together, they tell the story of a love that has matured, mellowed, and ultimately become a cherished memory.
This review delves into the composition, performance, and context of this unique fragrance, examining how it fits within By Kilian's oeuvre and the broader niche market. While factual data on longevity and sillage is limited, the scent's artistic merit and emotional resonance are undeniable.
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
The first spray delivers a burst of tart, almost candied raspberry. It is bright and slightly sharp, evoking the initial rush of infatuation. The fruit is not overly sweet; it has a green, slightly acidic edge that prevents it from becoming cloying. Within minutes, the raspberry begins to soften, hinting at the tobacco heart.
After about 30 minutes, the white tobacco emerges. It is dry, hay-like, and subtly floral, with a whisper of honeyed sweetness. The raspberry recedes into the background, now a faint memory. The tobacco is not smoky or heavy; it is airy and refined, like dried leaves in autumn sunlight. This phase lasts for several hours, gradually gaining warmth.
Four to six hours in, the leather base becomes prominent. It is a soft, suede-like leather, not harsh or animalic, but smooth and comforting. The tobacco lingers, now intertwined with the leather, creating a velvety, slightly powdery finish. The raspberry is almost gone, leaving only a faint fruity sweetness that echoes the opening. The drydown is intimate and contemplative, like a cherished keepsake.
Performance Dashboard
Unknown – no verified data available. Anecdotal reports suggest moderate longevity of 4-6 hours on skin, but this is unconfirmed.
Unknown – no verified data. Expected to be close to the skin after the initial burst.
Unknown – no verified data. Likely moderate to soft, given the composition's intimate nature.
When to Wear
Community Verdict
Unknown – no data. The fragrance's subtlety may not attract overt compliments, but its artistry is likely appreciated by connoisseurs.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Unique narrative concept that evokes emotion
- ✅ Well-blended, sophisticated composition
- ✅ High-quality raw materials
- ✅ Versatile for cooler weather and evening wear
- ❌ Limited performance data; potential longevity issues
- ❌ May be too subtle for those who prefer bold scents
- ❌ Price point is high for a fragrance with uncertain performance
- ❌ Not suitable for warm weather or casual daytime use
Price & Value
“While the fragrance offers a compelling olfactory experience, the lack of verified performance data makes it a risky investment for those prioritizing longevity and sillage. It is best suited for collectors and fans of the house.”
📜 Reformulation History
No significant batch variations reported. The fragrance appears consistent across production runs.
Who It's For
✅ Ideal For
- Fragrance enthusiasts who appreciate narrative-driven scents
- Lovers of tobacco and leather accords
- Those seeking a unique, introspective fragrance
⚠️ Not Recommended For
- Those who prefer light, fresh, or aquatic scents
- Individuals sensitive to animalic or smoky notes
- People looking for high projection and longevity
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🧪 Layering Ideas
- Layer with a vanilla or amber fragrance to enhance the sweetness of the raspberry and tobacco.
- Combine with a smoky oud or incense scent to deepen the leather base and add complexity.
- Use a light floral like rose or jasmine to bridge the fruity and tobacco notes for a more feminine touch.
