Elizabeth Taylor Fragrance review

Elizabeth Taylor Passion Review: A Bold 1988 Classic

Unapologetically sensual and commanding—a fragrance that defines passion itself.

By Vivir · · Updated
In the landscape of celebrity fragrances, few have left as indelible a mark as Elizabeth Taylor’s Passion. Released in 1987, it was not merely a perfume; it was an extension of the star herself—dramatic, opulent, and utterly unafraid to take up space. While modern trends lean toward the subtle and the skin-scent, Passion stands as a defiant monument to the era of 'more is more.' As a trend analyst at Vivir, I often look for the bridge between vintage classics and contemporary relevance. Passion is a study in contrasts: it is a complex, aldehydic oriental that challenges the nose with its intense opening before settling into a warm, powdery embrace. It remains a polarizing figure in the fragrance community, yet its longevity in the market speaks volumes about its enduring appeal to those who value character over trends.
$20-$40
SpringSummerFallWinter

Accords

Aldehydic Floral Woody Powdery Animalic Spicy Oriental

Notes Pyramid

Top
AldehydesArtemisiaGardeniaBergamotYlang-YlangCoriander
Heart
TuberoseJasmineHeliotropeSandalwoodPatchouliOrris Root
Base
CivetMuskVanillaOakmossCedarIncenseLeather

Performance Dashboard

Longevity

8-10 hours

Projection

Strong for the first 3-4 hours

Sillage

Heavy, leaves a distinct trail

When to Wear

SpringOK
SummerAvoid
FallAvoid
WinterBest
Evening galasFormal eventsWinter nightsDate nights

Pros & Cons

  • Unbeatable longevity and projection
  • Incredible value for the price
  • A true piece of perfumery history
  • The opening is very aggressive
  • Not suitable for office or confined spaces
  • May feel dated to younger audiences

Price & Value

$20-$40

“Exceptional value for money given its complex composition and performance.”

Reformulation History

Some reformulations have occurred over the decades, leading to a slightly thinner base than the original 1980s iterations, but the core DNA remains recognizable.

The Family

Passion for Men
White Diamonds White Diamonds Elizabeth Taylor
Black Pearls

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Similar Fragrances

Clone Alternatives

None direct; it is distinct enough to be its own entity

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Opium by YSL
Coco by Chanel

Layering Ideas

Final Verdict

Elizabeth Taylor Passion remains a masterpiece of the 'power scent' era. It is a bold, unapologetic fragrance that rewards those with the patience to let it develop on the skin.

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Elizabeth Taylor Passionvintage perfume1980s fragranceanimalic perfumepowerhouse fragrancecelebrity perfumeclassic perfume review