Collection: Clive Christian

Clive Christian at perfume strength: how to sample it

This British house works at perfume strength rather than eau de parfum, so one spray is usually enough. That changes the maths of sampling: a 2 ml Clive Christian decant gives you a dozen wearings, and a 5 ml vial can last a season. Start small, wear slowly. Decant Sample lists 16 Clive Christian references, spread across masculine, feminine and shared scents, all hand-filled from original bottles.

What the collection holds

1872 For Men is the fresh entry point, citrus and herbs over woods, and the easiest Clive Christian perfume to wear daily. X For Men is deeper, with iris, cardamom and musk, while X For Women turns fruity and floral. No. 1 is the house's grand statement and best met in a small vial first. Blonde Amber and Rock Rose explore amber and labdanum, and the more unusual names in the collection are exactly the kind of references a Clive Christian sample was made for.

Building a discovery set at this level

Because a full bottle is a serious commitment, a set of four or five 2 ml vials is the sensible way in. Wear each for two days, note the one you miss on the third, and order that one in 10 ml. Standard shipping from France is €4.95 anywhere in Europe, and free from €59.

Clive Christian decants: frequently asked questions

Which Clive Christian decant is best for a first try?

1872 For Men for a fresh, citrus led introduction that works in any season, or X For Women for a fruity floral with real richness. Both show the house's density without overwhelming a newcomer. Order 2 ml of each and apply a single spray.

Why is a Clive Christian sample so concentrated?

The house blends at perfume strength, well above most eaux de parfum, so projection and longevity are high even from a tiny amount. That is why we recommend one spray per wear and why a 2 or 3 ml vial is a genuine test rather than a quick sniff.

No. 1 or X For Men for a formal evening?

X For Men is the more approachable choice: iris and cardamom over soft woods, polished and discreet in a crowded room. No. 1 is grander, richer and longer lasting, better suited to a special occasion. Test both in 2 ml before deciding which deserves a larger vial.