Givenchy Oblique Rewind Review: Bold, Modern Masculine Scent
A Deep Dive into a Contemporary Olfactive Statement
In the ever-evolving landscape of men's fragrances, few brands manage to consistently capture attention with both innovation and classic appeal like Givenchy. Their "Oblique Rewind" is a prime example of this delicate balance. Launched in 2020, this scent arrived not as a mere addition to an existing line, but as a statement piece, designed to push boundaries and redefine contemporary masculine scent profiles. It entered a market saturated with predictable woody and aquatic notes, aiming to offer something distinct, something that spoke of a modern man's confidence and his appreciation for nuanced olfactive experiences.
Positioning is key for any luxury fragrance, and Oblique Rewind was strategically placed within Givenchy's more avant-garde offerings. While the brand boasts a rich heritage with iconic scents like Gentleman and Pour Homme, Oblique Rewind was conceived to appeal to a younger, more trend-aware demographic, while still retaining the sophistication expected of a high-end designer house. It’s a fragrance that doesn't shy away from being noticed, aiming for a spot on the shelf of the discerning gentleman who seeks both versatility and a signature scent that leaves a lasting impression, distinguishing itself from the more traditional offerings in the Givenchy portfolio.
The inspiration behind Oblique Rewind is rooted in the idea of revisiting and reinterpreting classic masculine archetypes through a modern lens. The concept evokes a sense of nostalgia, but not in a backward-looking way; rather, it’s about taking cherished elements of the past and presenting them with a fresh, contemporary twist. This duality is reflected in the scent itself – a blend of familiar warmth and unexpected sharpness, creating an olfactive narrative of a man who respects tradition but lives firmly in the present, forging his own path. It's a scent designed to be both comforting and exhilarating, a paradox that defines its unique appeal.
Since its release, Oblique Rewind has garnered a significant following within the fragrance community. It's praised for its unique character, a departure from the ubiquitous "blue" fragrances that dominated the market for years. While not universally loved – its boldness can be polarizing – it has earned a reputation as a confident, modern masculine scent that performs well and garners attention. Online forums and fragrance enthusiast groups often highlight its distinctive opening and its long-lasting, evolving drydown, cementing its status as a noteworthy contemporary release from Givenchy.
The Nose Behind the Scent
Nathalie Lorson. A luminary in the fragrance industry, Lorson has a remarkable portfolio, having created numerous successful and critically acclaimed scents for a wide array of luxury houses. Her signature style often involves creating complex, yet accessible fragrances that possess a distinct character and exceptional longevity. Her notable creations include "Lalique Encre Noire," "Yves Saint Laurent Elle," and "Giorgio Armani Si." Lorson's ability to weave together traditional perfumery with modern sensibilities is precisely what makes Oblique Rewind such a compelling and unique composition.
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
The fragrance bursts open with a vibrant, slightly tart zestiness from the Bergamot, immediately brightened by the subtle, rosy heat of Pink Pepper and the aromatic, slightly sweet spice of Cardamom. This initial phase is invigorating and attention-grabbing, setting a crisp, clean tone.
As the top notes recede, the herbaceous heart of the fragrance emerges. The calming, clean aroma of Lavender blends seamlessly with the slightly minty, earthy notes of Clary Sage. Geranium adds a subtle rosy, green nuance, bridging the gap between the fresh opening and the deeper base.
This is where Oblique Rewind truly establishes its lasting presence. The woody base notes take center stage: the smoky, earthy depth of Vetiver is complemented by the rich, damp soil character of Patchouli. Amberwood provides a modern, slightly sweet and radiant woody facet, while the creamy, almond-like sweetness of Tonka Bean adds a touch of warmth and sensuality, creating a sophisticated and enduring finish.
Performance Dashboard
On skin, it consistently lasts between 8 to 10 hours, and on clothing, it can linger for 12+ hours, making it ideal for long days or nights.
The fragrance projects strongly for the first 2-3 hours, creating a noticeable scent bubble around the wearer. After this initial phase, it settles into a more intimate, yet still discernible, presence for several more hours.
The sillage is moderate to strong, leaving a pleasant and noticeable trail that garners attention without being overwhelming. It's enough to make an impression in social settings.
When to Wear
Community Verdict
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Unique and distinctive scent profile, standing out from common fragrances.
- ✅ Exceptional longevity, easily lasting through a full day or night.
- ✅ Versatile enough for various occasions, from casual to formal.
- ✅ Excellent projection, making a noticeable and positive impression.
- ✅ Sophisticated and modern drydown.
- ❌ Can be overpowering if over-sprayed, especially in warmer climates.
- ❌ The opening might be perceived as slightly sharp by some.
- ❌ Premium price point may be a barrier for some consumers.
- ❌ Scent may not appeal to those who prefer extremely light or aquatic fragrances.
Price & Value
“For those seeking a distinctive, high-performing, and modern masculine fragrance, Oblique Rewind is an excellent investment. Its longevity and unique scent profile justify its premium price tag for many enthusiasts.”
📜 Reformulation History
As of current knowledge, there are no widely reported significant batch variations or major reformulations for Givenchy Oblique Rewind that drastically alter its scent profile or performance. The fragrance has maintained a consistent reputation since its launch.
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
A vibrant and immediate burst of fresh bergamot, cut with the sharp zest of pink pepper and a hint of warm, aromatic cardamom. This initial phase is bright and invigorating.
The heart reveals a classic aromatic fougère structure. Lavender and clary sage provide a clean, herbaceous coolness, balanced by the slightly rosy, green facet of geranium. The scent maintains a crisp, refined character.
The base settles into a sophisticated woody and earthy blend. Vetiver offers a dry, grassy depth, complemented by the rich, slightly sweet earthiness of patchouli. Amberwood adds a modern warmth, while tonka bean provides a subtle, creamy sweetness, ensuring a smooth and lasting finish.
Performance Dashboard
Lasts 4-6 hours on skin.
Moderate projection for the first 1-2 hours, then settles closer to the skin.
Leaves a noticeable but not overpowering trail.
When to Wear
Community Verdict
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Fresh and aromatic
- ✅ Versatile for daytime wear
- ✅ Clean and sophisticated scent
- ✅ Well-balanced notes
- ❌ Moderate longevity and projection
- ❌ Discontinued, making it hard to find and potentially expensive on the secondary market
Price & Value
“A solid choice for its aromatic profile, but availability and secondary market pricing can be a factor due to discontinuation.”
📜 Reformulation History
Givenchy Oblique Rewind EDT was launched in 2000 and is now discontinued. Therefore, concerns about batch variations are less relevant than the challenge of finding authentic, well-preserved vintage bottles.
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
A more intense and vibrant opening of bergamot and pink pepper, quickly deepening with the warmth of cardamom and a richer aromatic lavender.
The heart reveals a complex blend of robust lavender, clary sage, and geranium, with the warm spices becoming more prominent and patchouli beginning to emerge, adding depth and earthiness.
The base settles into a luxurious and long-lasting blend of creamy amberwood, sweet tonka bean, earthy vetiver, and a smooth, musky cashmeran, providing a sophisticated and enveloping finish.
Performance Dashboard
Lasts 10-12 hours with significant presence.
Strong projection for the first 4-5 hours, then settling to a moderate aura.
Creates a heavy and noticeable trail, leaving a lasting impression.
When to Wear
Community Verdict
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Richer, more luxurious scent profile compared to EDT
- ✅ Significantly improved longevity and projection
- ✅ More complex and enveloping aroma
- ✅ Excellent for cooler weather and evening wear
- ❌ Higher price point than the EDT version
- ❌ Can be too heavy for warm climates or casual daytime wear
- ❌ Less versatile due to its intensity
Price & Value
“Higher price point is justified by the superior concentration, enhanced longevity, and richer scent profile.”
Who It's For
✅ Ideal For
- Men aged 25-45
- Confident, modern men who aren't afraid to stand out
- Individuals with a sophisticated yet bold personality
- Those who appreciate well-crafted scents with a distinct character
- Fans of contemporary takes on classic masculine notes
⚠️ Not Recommended For
- Individuals who prefer very light, subtle, or aquatic fragrances
- Those highly sensitive to strong, spicy, or woody notes
- Less suited for very casual daytime wear in hot weather
The Family
A more concentrated and intense version offering richer depth and potentially longer longevity.
Explore More
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💡 Clone Alternatives
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❤️ You May Also Enjoy
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More from Givenchy
🧪 Layering Ideas
- Vanilla-based fragrances
- Light, clean musks
- Simple woody colognes
🏆 Final Verdict
Givenchy Oblique Rewind is more than just a fragrance; it's a statement of modern masculinity. It successfully blends fresh, spicy, and woody elements into a composition that is both captivating and enduring. If you're a man who appreciates a scent that commands attention without being ostentatious, offers exceptional performance, and carries an air of sophisticated confidence, Oblique Rewind is an outstanding choice. Its unique character ensures you won't blend into the background, making it ideal for evenings, special occasions, or any time you want to leave a memorable impression. While it comes with a premium price tag, the quality of the ingredients, the masterful blending, and the remarkable longevity make it a worthwhile investment for any discerning fragrance connoisseur.