René MorgenthalerThe nose · 5 fragrances · also made Extreme Polo Sport (1998)Portrait →Will you like it? Mark a few fragrances you own or love and we'll tell you.
Calvin Klein · Sold as feminine
Obsession Sheer
The quiet sophistication of an office meeting turning into an after-hours conversation — where the crisp freshness meets the warm embrace of a lingering, comforting aroma.
Full bottle: Mid-range tier, typically $40–100. Links open each seller's own page. We may earn a commission; it never changes the order.
Obsession SheerMid-range · $40–100
56%Similar accords, often for lessBare Vanilla Crystal · Victoria's SecretBudget tier, under $40 · all 4 of its listed notes are in this one8 matches →How it wears
From community votes · bars are each option's shareComposition & Character
The story behind the bottle.
Launched in 2002 by Calvin Klein and crafted by René Morgenthaler, Obsession Sheer is a unisex fragrance that balances bright citrus with warm amber and vanilla. The opening notes of citric freshness are crisp yet approachable, making way for the balsamic heart and powdery base. This composition encapsulates the brand's signature blend of minimalism and elegance, offering a subtle yet enduring presence.
Given its moderate sillage and longevity, Obsession Sheer is best applied in two light sprays. It blooms gradually on the skin, so avoid layering too heavily. This fragrance reads better close to the skin rather than from afar, making it perfect for daytime wear where a subtle presence is appreciated.
Fig. 01 — Obsession Sheer, Calvin Klein
Where to buy.
Wear it for a week first
A decant costs a fraction of a bottle and tells you how it lasts on your skin.
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René Morgenthaler
From Geneva apprentice to Chief PerfumerRené Morgenthaler began his career with an apprenticeship in chemistry at Givaudan in his native Geneva, earning a place at the newly established Givaudan Perfumery School.
The Obsession line
7 fragrances, compared side by side
Designer Calvin Klein
More from the house · founded 1968 · United States
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Chosen from what wearers say it smells like, what its fans also love, and its notes
Love it, not the price?
Matched by accords and notes. Sample first, then decide.
The originalObsession SheerCalvin Klein · Mid-range · $40–100Victoria's Secret · 2021Bare Vanilla CrystalAll 4 of its listed notes are in this oneunder $40★ 4.56 (27)53%Match
Zara · 2012IntenseShares 4 of its 5 notesunder $40★ 4.10 (39)
With Calvin Klein Calvin Klein
Adds floral, woody and white floral; shares amber and musk.
Suggested from accords and notes · not yet tried by wearers
What people
are saying.
Respected, if divisive: loved by 31%, disliked or hated by 16%.