The Ultimate Insider Reveal: Guerlain's La Petite Robe Noire EDT My Cocktail Dress 2017 – Your Exclusive Guide
A playful yet sophisticated twist on a modern classic, perfect for those in the know.

Alright, darlings, gather 'round, because Vivir Insider has the scoop you’ve been waiting for. We're diving deep into a fragrance that, for a moment, captured the hearts of a new generation while still whispering the timeless elegance of Guerlain: La Petite Robe Noire Eau De Toilette My Cocktail Dress 2017. This wasn't just another launch; it was Guerlain's brilliant move to bridge the gap between their storied heritage and the vibrant, fast-paced world of modern luxury. It emerged as a lighter, more effervescent sibling to the beloved original, designed for those sun-drenched moments and spontaneous evenings, asserting its place with a charming, undeniable presence.
In the expansive Guerlain universe, where titans like Shalimar and Mitsouko reign supreme, La Petite Robe Noire carved out a unique, playful niche. It’s the spirited younger sister who knows how to have fun, but always with an impeccable sense of style. The 'My Cocktail Dress' edition specifically positioned itself as the go-to scent for effortless Parisian chic—think brunch on the Left Bank, an impromptu gallery visit, or indeed, slipping into that perfect little dress for an evening out. It’s an accessible entry point into the world of Guerlain, without sacrificing an ounce of its famed quality or complexity, making it a darling for connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
The inspiration behind La Petite Robe Noire, and particularly this 2017 EDT, is pure fantasy and desire. It’s the scent of anticipation, the flutter of excitement before a special event, the joy of choosing the perfect outfit. The 'My Cocktail Dress' concept evokes that feeling of slipping into something fabulous, ready to make memories. It’s about celebrating femininity in its most joyful, confident form. The fragrance captures the essence of a mischievous, elegant woman, whose charm is as intoxicating as her perfume, leaving a trail of unforgettable moments in her wake.
Within the fragrance community, La Petite Robe Noire has garnered a reputation as a modern classic, a commercial triumph that proved Guerlain could innovate while staying true to its soul. While some purists initially raised an eyebrow at its more contemporary, gourmand-leaning profile, the EDT versions, especially 'My Cocktail Dress 2017,' solidified its status as a versatile, beloved staple. It's often praised for its unique cherry-almond accord, a signature that makes it instantly recognizable and endlessly appealing. It's become a symbol of effortless French elegance, a scent that whispers 'je ne sais quoi' with every delightful spritz, confirming its place as a truly special creation in the luxury landscape.
The Nose Behind the Scent
Thierry Wasser, Guerlain's esteemed in-house perfumer since 2008, is the visionary nose behind La Petite Robe Noire line, including this charming 2017 EDT. Wasser is celebrated for his ability to both honor Guerlain's rich heritage and push boundaries with modern creations. His mastery of the iconic 'Guerlainade' accord, combined with a fresh perspective, has given us contemporary masterpieces like Mon Guerlain and the reinterpretation of classics, ensuring Guerlain's continued relevance in the ever-evolving fragrance world.
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
From the very first spritz, La Petite Robe Noire EDT My Cocktail Dress 2017 bursts forth with a dazzling, effervescent charm. You’re immediately greeted by a juicy, sparkling black cherry, so vibrant and inviting, it feels like sipping a sophisticated cocktail. This is swiftly complemented by a creamy, slightly bitter almond, adding a nuanced depth that balances the fruit. A zesty whisper of bergamot and the tartness of red berries lift the entire composition, preventing it from being overly sweet and making the initial impression bright, chic, and utterly irresistible. It’s a sophisticated fruit tart, perfectly prepared for a Parisian afternoon.
As the fragrance settles, typically within 15-30 minutes, the initial fruitiness gracefully transitions into its elegant heart. Here, a magnificent duo of opulent roses—Bulgarian and Turkish—bloom forth, intertwining with the unique, slightly smoky depth of black tea. This isn’t your grandmother’s rose; it’s modern, fresh, and utterly captivating. A subtle, intriguing touch of licorice emerges, adding a sophisticated, almost anise-like sweetness that prevents the scent from becoming overly floral or saccharine. Freesia adds a fresh, airy quality, giving the mid-phase a delightful lightness that feels utterly refined and endlessly wearable.
The true magic of Guerlain reveals itself in the exquisite drydown, which unfolds beautifully over several hours. The fragrance settles into a warm, comforting, yet still playful embrace. Creamy tonka bean and rich vanilla create a smooth, gourmand base that feels like a cashmere hug, while a powdery iris note adds a touch of classic Guerlain elegance and sophistication. A clean, earthy patchouli provides grounding without ever feeling heavy or overwhelming, and a soft white musk ensures a lingering, elegant skin scent. The cherry and almond notes, though softened, hum softly beneath, a delicious, memorable echo of the opening that keeps you coming back for more.
Performance Dashboard
For an Eau de Toilette, this gem truly holds its own, offering a solid 5-7 hours of delightful wear on skin. Expect to catch those charming wafts throughout your day, reminding you of its playful yet sophisticated presence. It’s built to last through your brunch and into your evening plans.
Initially, it creates a lovely, inviting bubble of about arm's length, making it noticeable without ever being overwhelming. It’s perfect for intimate gatherings, office environments (with light application), or making a subtle, confident statement without shouting.
It leaves a soft, elegant trail—a gentle whisper rather than a shout. People will definitely catch a pleasant hint as you pass by, but it won't dominate a room. This makes it ideal for refined discretion, leaving a memorable impression without being intrusive.
When to Wear
Community Verdict
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Features a uniquely charming and distinctive cherry-almond opening that truly stands out from the crowd.
- ✅ Successfully combines playful notes with undeniable sophistication, embodying a modern Parisian chic.
- ✅ Remarkably versatile, adapting beautifully for both daytime wear and more elegant evening occasions.
- ✅ Represents a modern Guerlain creation that still retains the brand's signature touch of classic elegance and quality.
- ✅ Offers commendable longevity for an Eau de Toilette, providing enjoyment for a significant part of the day.
- ❌ Can be perceived as too sweet by some individuals, particularly those who prefer fresher or more savory profiles, especially in warmer climates.
- ❌ While unique, its contemporary gourmand slant might not appeal to purists seeking the deep, complex traditionalism of older Guerlain masterpieces.
- ❌ The projection is moderate, which might slightly disappoint those who prefer a stronger, more commanding scent bubble that fills a room.
- ❌ The licorice note, though subtle, can be polarizing for some who are not fond of its specific aromatic quality.
Price & Value
“Absolutely worth the investment, particularly for those who adore its distinctive profile. For a Guerlain, the price point offers excellent accessibility to a high-quality, beautifully crafted fragrance that feels special and delivers consistent enjoyment and compliments. It's a luxury that feels attainable and delivers on its promise of chic sophistication.”
📜 Reformulation History
While Guerlain is renowned for its meticulous attention to formula integrity, significant batch variations specifically for the 2017 'My Cocktail Dress' EDT are not widely reported as problematic. Like many popular designer lines, slight ingredient tweaks can occur over time due due to regulatory changes or sourcing, but the core, delightful essence of this playful cherry-almond composition has remained consistent and true to its original charm for its production run. You can generally purchase with confidence.
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
From the first spritz, the EDP immediately announces its presence with a richer, darker cherry and a more pronounced, almost syrupy bitter almond. The red berries are still there, but they're deeper, less sparkling than the EDT, with a hint of that signature Guerlain bergamot adding a touch of brightness to an otherwise gourmand opening.
As it settles, the heart truly blossoms into a luxurious bouquet. The Bulgarian and Turkish roses are fuller, more velvety, enveloped by a sophisticated black tea note that's more prominent here. The licorice and anise are intensified, weaving through the florals to create a warm, slightly spicy, and utterly captivating gourmand floral core that feels utterly decadent.
The drydown is where this EDP truly shines, lingering for hours. A creamy, rich vanilla and a deep tonka bean take center stage, creating an addictive, almost edible warmth. The iris adds a powdery, elegant touch, while patchouli provides a subtle, grounding earthiness without ever becoming overwhelming. White musk ensures a soft, lingering embrace, making it undeniably sophisticated and comforting.
Performance Dashboard
Expect a solid 10-12 hours on skin, even longer on clothes. This isn't fleeting; it's a commitment.
Strong projection for the first 3-4 hours, creating a noticeable but not overwhelming scent bubble. It truly announces your presence.
Leaves a beautiful, lingering trail that's both elegant and memorable. People will definitely notice and ask what you're wearing.
When to Wear
Community Verdict
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Significantly richer and deeper scent profile
- ✅ Exceptional longevity and sillage
- ✅ More complex and enveloping
- ✅ Perfect for special occasions and cooler weather
- ✅ Feels more luxurious and substantial
- ❌ Higher price tag
- ❌ Can be too heavy for warm weather or office wear
- ❌ Less 'easygoing' than the EDT, requires a certain mood
Price & Value
“While a higher price point than its EDT counterpart, the EDP's superior longevity, depth, and richness make it a worthwhile splurge for discerning collectors. It's an investment in enduring elegance.”
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
An immediate, opulent burst of dark cherry liqueur and toasted almond, far richer and less effervescent than the EDT. The bergamot is a mere suggestion, letting the gourmand fruits take center stage with a plush intensity.
The heart blossoms into a magnificent, velvety rose absolute, intertwined with the deep, almost syrupy black tea and a pronounced, luxurious licorice. It's a darker, more sophisticated floral gourmand, showcasing unparalleled depth.
A truly lingering, sensual drydown of creamy tonka bean, rich vanilla pod, earthy orris, and a refined patchouli, all wrapped in a subtle, clean white musk, maintaining a persistent, sweet cherry-almond echo that lasts for hours.
Performance Dashboard
Exceptional longevity, easily 12-14+ hours on skin, truly a full-day wear.
Powerful projection for the first 3-4 hours, then settles to a strong, noticeable aura that gracefully fills a room.
Leaves a magnificent, enveloping sillage that commands attention and makes a luxurious statement.
When to Wear
Community Verdict
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Unrivaled depth and richness of scent
- ✅ Phenomenal longevity and sillage
- ✅ Luxurious and sophisticated aura
- ✅ Distinctly more opulent than the EDT
- ❌ Premium price point
- ❌ Can be too intense for some occasions or preferences
- ❌ Less versatile for casual wear
Price & Value
“A significant investment for a truly sublime, long-lasting scent experience that justifies its premium positioning.”
Accords
Notes Pyramid
Scent Journey
An opulent, concentrated burst of dark cherry liqueur and bitter almond, immediately deeper and more syrupy than the EDT, with a subtle glimmer of bergamot cutting through the richness. The red berries are candied, not fresh, setting a luxurious tone.
The heart blossoms into a magnificent bouquet of Bulgarian and Turkish rose absolutes, their velvety petals intertwined with the profound depth of black tea and the sophisticated warmth of star anise. A touch of cashmere wood adds a smooth, almost tactile texture, elevating the composition beyond the EDT's lighter floral blend.
The true magic unfolds in the drydown, a sublime, long-lasting embrace of intense tonka bean and creamy Madagascar vanilla absolute. Orris root provides a powdery, elegant foundation, while Sumatran patchouli and benzoin add a resinous, gourmand warmth that lingers exquisitely. The white musk is a whisper, ensuring a clean finish to this deep, complex elixir, leaving an indelible, luxurious trail.
Performance Dashboard
Exceptional longevity, easily lasting 12+ hours on skin, even through a full day and into the evening.
Strong, noticeable projection for the first 5-6 hours, creating an alluring aura without being overwhelming.
Leaves a heavy, luxurious trail that captivates and lingers, a true statement of presence.
When to Wear
Community Verdict
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Unparalleled depth and richness
- ✅ Exceptional longevity and sillage
- ✅ More complex and nuanced scent profile
- ✅ Luxurious and sophisticated statement fragrance
- ✅ A true collector's piece
- ❌ Significantly higher price point
- ❌ Less versatile for casual or daytime wear
- ❌ Can be too intense for some if over-sprayed
- ❌ Limited availability
Price & Value
“The significantly enhanced depth, longevity, and sheer opulence of the Extrait undeniably justify its premium price point for the discerning collector.”
📜 Reformulation History
Guerlain's Extrait formulations typically maintain a consistent, high standard. Minor nuances might exist between production runs, but no significant reformulations impacting the core scent profile have been widely reported for this concentration.
Who It's For
✅ Ideal For
- Women aged 20-45 who appreciate playful sophistication
- Individuals with a chic, effortless personal style
- Fans of modern gourmand florals that aren't overtly sweet
- People seeking a signature scent that's both fun and elegantly composed
- Lovers of distinctive cherry and creamy almond notes
- Those who enjoy a fragrance that feels Parisian and optimistic
⚠️ Not Recommended For
- Those who prefer strictly traditional, heavy oriental, or overtly green fragrances
- Individuals highly sensitive to sweet notes or gourmand profiles
- Anyone looking for a super bold, room-filling scent that projects aggressively
- Minimalist fragrance enthusiasts who prefer very sheer or aquatic scents
The Family
The original, richer, and more intense Eau de Parfum version of the core LPRN DNA, offering a deeper, more sophisticated gourmand experience.
A deeper, even more gourmand take on the theme, featuring prominent notes of cotton candy and blueberry, designed for a bolder statement.
A rock-chic interpretation with an added edge of leathery notes, almond, and a darker, more brooding rose, for a rebellious yet elegant vibe.
A lighter, greener, and more spring-like interpretation, featuring a delightful pistachio note and a fresh, airy quality, perfect for warmer days.
Explore More
🔍 Similar Fragrances
Shares a whimsical, slightly gothic gourmand vibe with prominent cherry, licorice, and violet notes, appealing to a similar playful yet sophisticated aesthetic.
Features a similar sweet, almond, and orange blossom accord, targeting a modern, playful femininity with a confident, gourmand edge.
While different in its core notes (coffee, vanilla), it shares a modern, sweet, and seductive gourmand appeal, often enjoyed by the same demographic looking for a chic, contemporary scent.
If you absolutely adore the vibrant cherry note in LPRN, this offers a more luxurious, boozy, and intensely focused cherry experience, albeit at a significantly higher price point.
💡 Clone Alternatives
Often cited by users for its surprisingly similar sweet cherry and almond nuances, offering a very affordable and wearable take on the LPRN vibe, especially for casual everyday wear.
A simpler, lighter cherry blossom scent that some compare to the brighter, fruitier aspects of LPRN EDT, particularly its initial sparkling cherry opening, though less complex overall.
❤️ You May Also Enjoy
For those who appreciate modern Guerlain elegance infused with a comforting, sophisticated sweetness, offering a similar blend of tradition and contemporary appeal.
If you love sweet, effervescent floral gourmands with a strong, optimistic presence and excellent sillage, Flowerbomb shares a similar joyful exuberance.
For fans of sophisticated fruity-chypre scents with a confident, modern sweetness and a touch of warmth, Sì offers a similar elegant versatility.
If you like bold, sweet, and slightly daring fragrances with a strong personality and a gourmand twist, Good Girl offers a similar contemporary allure.
More from Guerlain
🧪 Layering Ideas
- A light vanilla body lotion or fragrance oil to enhance its gourmand sweetness and add an extra layer of creamy warmth, making it even more delectable.
- A sheer, clean musk scent to soften and extend its drydown, adding an ethereal, 'your skin but better' quality that is incredibly alluring.
- A subtle, fresh rose-based perfume to amplify its floral heart, especially if you adore the elegant rose notes within the composition, creating a more pronounced floral bouquet.
- A hint of a delicate, fresh citrus or bergamot spray on top to brighten the opening for an extra sparkle, perfect for warmer days or a more invigorating start.
🏆 Final Verdict
So, my dear fragrance aficionados, what's the final word from Vivir Insider on Guerlain's La Petite Robe Noire Eau De Toilette My Cocktail Dress 2017? This isn't just a perfume; it's an invitation to a world of effortless Parisian chic, a playful wink from one of luxury's most revered houses. It’s a beautifully composed symphony of sparkling cherry, creamy almond, and elegant rose, all wrapped in that unmistakable Guerlain sophistication. For those of you who crave a signature scent that's both modern and timeless, fun yet refined, this is undeniably it. It’s a fragrance that boosts your mood, enhances your style, and leaves a trail of pure charm wherever you go.
This particular EDT variant, with its vibrant energy and accessible elegance, is a true gem in the LPRN collection. It perfectly balances longevity with a polite projection, making it incredibly versatile for almost any occasion, from your most casual outings to those special cocktail hours. It’s a testament to Thierry Wasser’s genius, proving that tradition can dance gracefully with contemporary desires. If you’re looking for a fragrance that garners compliments, makes you feel utterly fabulous, and offers a delightful journey from its sparkling opening to its comforting drydown, then 'My Cocktail Dress 2017' is your next must-have. Don't just wear a fragrance; wear a mood, wear a story, wear Guerlain. Trust me, you'll thank me later.