Christopher SheldrakeThe nose · 94 fragrances · also made Feminite du Bois (1992)Portrait →Will you like it? Mark a few fragrances you own or love and we'll tell you.
Serge Lutens · Sold as unisex
L orpheline
The hushed quiet of an old library, where the scent of aged books and warm candles fill the air just before dusk.
Full bottle: Premium tier, typically $100–250. Links open each seller's own page. We may earn a commission; it never changes the order.
L orphelinePremium · $100–250
62%Similar accords, often for lessVelvet Desert Oud · Dolce&GabbanaMid-range tier, $40–100 · shares incense and musk8 matches →How it wears
From community votes · bars are each option's shareComposition & Character
The story behind the bottle.
L'Orpheline by Serge Lutens was launched in 2014 and is a creation by Christopher Sheldrake. This fragrance presents an intriguing contrast between warmth and mystery. The composition opens with smoky and powdery notes, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and slightly enigmatic. As it develops, the musky and amber accords provide a deep, comforting base that adds layers of complexity and depth. L'Orpheline is neither purely masculine nor feminine but instead exists in a nuanced space where warmth and smokiness blend seamlessly.
Apply L'Orpheline with a light hand; it blooms slowly on the skin over time. The smoky and powdery notes develop best close to your body rather than spreading widely through a room. This fragrance is ideal for evening wear, where its deep warmth can be fully appreciated.
Fig. 01 — L orpheline, Serge Lutens
Where to buy.
Wear it for a week first
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Christopher Sheldrake
From Serge Lutens' shadow to Chanel's spotlightChristopher Sheldrake is a British-born perfumer who studied art history before extensive travels sparked his interest in fragrance.
The L orpheline line
2 fragrances, compared side by side
Designer Serge Lutens
More from the house · France
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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 originalL orphelineSerge Lutens · Premium · $100–250Dolce&Gabbana · 2013Velvet Desert OudShares Incense and Musk$40–100★ 4.34 (943)61%Match
Swiss ArabianGhazi OudShares Incense and Muskunder $40★ 4.10 (29)62%Match
Dolce&Gabbana · 2026Velvet Desert Oud Hair MistShares Incense and Musk$40–100
With Etro Patchouly Eau de Parfum
Adds woody, patchouli and vanilla; shares four accords.
Suggested from accords and notes · not yet tried by wearers
What people
are saying.
Well loved by wearers: loved by 41%, disliked or hated by 11%.