Francis KurkdjianThe nose · 234 fragrances · also made Rouge Trafalgar Esprit De Parfum (2024)Portrait →Will you like it? Mark a few fragrances you own or love and we'll tell you.
Elie Saab · Sold as unisex
Essence No. 2 Gardenia
The subtle richness of a silk scarf tucked into the lapel of a tailored jacket, where each layer whispers its own story.
Full bottle: Premium tier, typically $100–250. Links open each seller's own page. We may earn a commission; it never changes the order.
Essence No. 2 GardeniaPremium · $100–250
44%Similar accords, often for lessPhloria · PhlurMid-range tier, $40–100 · shares gardenia and sandalwood8 matches →How it wears
From community votes · bars are each option's shareComposition & Character
Notes Pyramid
NotesAs listed
Main Accords
When to Wear
Who Wears It
The story behind the bottle.
Francis Kurkdjian crafted Essence No. 2 Gardenia for Elie Saab in 2014, blending a white floral heart with woody and powdery undertones to create a fragrance that is both elegant and intimate. The gardenia at the core of this composition is softened by lactonic and animalic notes, giving it a warmth and depth that lingers on the skin long after application. This fragrance captures the essence of Elie Saab's signature style — an intricate blend of luxury and refinement.
Due to its long-lasting nature and moderate sillage, two sprays are sufficient. The powdery and woody notes will gradually come through, providing a warm and enveloping scent that suits both day and evening wear.
Fig. 01 — Essence No. 2 Gardenia, Elie Saab
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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Francis Kurkdjian
The composer of lightFrancis Kurkdjian is among the most celebrated perfumers alive — a creative polymath whose work spans haute couture fragrance, contemporary art installations, and the founding of his own maison.
“It’s impossible to predict. Success doesn’t depend on you. It depends on the audience.”
Francis Kurkdjian · SLEEK, June 2026
Designer Elie Saab
More from the house · Lebanon
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Chosen from what wearers say it smells like, what its fans also love, and its notes
Love it, not the $100–250 price?
Matched by accords and notes. Sample first, then decide.
The originalEssence No. 2 GardeniaElie Saab · Premium · $100–250Phlur · 2022PhloriaShares Gardenia and Sandalwood$40–100★ 3.65 (339)44%Match
Michael Kors · 2013Michael Kors Gold Luxe EditionShares Gardenia and Sandalwood$40–100★ 4.07 (89)49%Match
Victoria's Secret · 2025Santal BlossomAll 2 of its listed notes are in this oneunder $40★ 4.27 (15)
With Miller et Bertaux In,
Adds amber, citrus and aromatic; shares three accords.
Suggested from accords and notes · not yet tried by wearers
What people
are saying.
Well loved by wearers: loved by 42%, disliked or hated by 11%.