Eau de Parfum With Holiday Decor

The Verdict

Issey Miyake's Eau de Parfum With Holiday Decor is a 2005 limited-edition release that packages the house's celebrated L'Eau d'Issey Eau de Parfum in festive seasonal dress. This is not a new fragrance composition but rather a collector's edition of an already well-established scent, making its value primarily aesthetic and sentimental rather than olfactory.

The underlying L'Eau d'Issey Eau de Parfum is widely regarded as a significant improvement over the original Eau de Toilette, offering a richer, more refined take on the aquatic-floral concept that made Issey Miyake a household name in fragrance. Reviewers consistently praise the EDP concentration for its depth and elegance.

What It Smells Like

Based on the parent L'Eau d'Issey Eau de Parfum formula, this fragrance opens with aquatic freshness accented by lotus, freesia, and a hint of calone that evokes water and sea air. The heart blooms with white lily and osmanthus, creating a luminous floral bouquet that is both delicate and present. The base of ambrette seed, Virginia cedar, and sandalwood provides a warm, slightly woody foundation that grounds the airy florals.

Reviewers describe the EDP as a classy white floral aquatic that is significantly more refined than the EDT version. The lily note is particularly praised for its beauty and naturalism. The overall impression is of water-washed florals with a quiet sophistication that avoids the sharpness some detect in the Eau de Toilette.

When to Wear It

This is a versatile fragrance that works across a wide range of occasions. Its refined character makes it appropriate for office wear, while its aquatic freshness suits daytime activities. The EDP concentration provides enough depth for evening events as well. It pairs especially well with spring and summer weather, though its warmth carries into fall. As a holiday edition, it would naturally make an excellent choice for festive gatherings.

Longevity & Projection

Longevity varies across wearers but tends to be respectable for the EDP concentration. Some reviewers report outstanding performance of 10 hours or more with good projection, while others find it settles into a skin scent after about 3 hours. The general consensus places the EDP well above the EDT in terms of staying power, making it a more reliable choice for full-day wear.

The Community Says

The L'Eau d'Issey Eau de Parfum enjoys a strong reputation among fragrance enthusiasts. It is frequently described as classy, elegant, and a major upgrade from the EDT. Multiple reviewers note they have never met anyone who disliked it. The EDP version is seen as a compliment-getter that bridges the gap between casual and sophisticated. The holiday edition specifically is valued by collectors for its festive presentation.

Who Should Buy This

This edition is primarily for Issey Miyake collectors and fans who want a special-packaging version of a fragrance they already love. For those who have never tried L'Eau d'Issey EDP, the underlying fragrance is worth seeking out in its standard packaging, which remains readily available. The holiday decor version serves best as a collectible or gift piece.

The Bottom Line

Issey Miyake's Eau de Parfum With Holiday Decor offers a beloved aquatic-floral fragrance in limited-edition holiday packaging, combining the elegant L'Eau d'Issey EDP formula with collectible presentation. Its value lies in the proven quality of the juice inside and the exclusivity of the seasonal bottle.