Classique Belle en Corset

The Verdict

Jean Paul Gaultier Classique Belle en Corset arrived in spring 2013 as a limited edition celebrating the 20th anniversary of the iconic original Classique from 1993. Created by master perfumer Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, this edition presents the beloved oriental floral formula in a stunning bottle inspired by an haute couture ivory satin corset dress from the Spring/Summer 2012 collection. For devoted fans of Classique, this is both a beautiful tribute and a collector's prize.

The community reception has been positive, with reviewers praising the fragrance's powdery white floral beauty and impressive staying power. However, some note that the juice inside is essentially the same Classique formula, making this primarily a collector's purchase rather than a new olfactory experience.

What It Smells Like

Belle en Corset opens with a radiant burst of orange blossom, star anise, pear, rose, and mandarin, creating a sweet, luminous introduction. The anise note adds an interesting licorice-like facet that distinguishes the opening from a generic floral. Reviewers describe it as an absolutely amazing powdery white floral with hints of mandarin that immediately establishes its oriental character.

The heart deepens with ginger, ylang-ylang, orchid, iris, and plum, weaving spice through lush florals. The iris lends a sophisticated powdery quality that is central to the Classique identity. The base of amber, vanilla, and musk provides the warm, seductive foundation that has made Classique an enduring classic. Reviewers note it is more intense than the standard Eau de Parfum, with the warmth and depth slightly amplified.

When to Wear It

Belle en Corset is a fragrance that truly comes alive in the evening. Its amber-vanilla base and powdery oriental character make it ideal for date nights, dinners, and special occasions where its seductive warmth can be appreciated. The composition also works well in cooler weather, where the spicy and sweet notes harmonize with crisp autumn and winter air.

While it can be worn during the day in cooler seasons, its considerable projection and sweet intensity suggest it is best reserved for occasions where making a statement is welcome.

Longevity & Projection

Performance is a strong suit. The fragrance earns a longevity rating of 4.00 out of 5 on Fragrantica, with reviewers reporting it lasts well into the evening. Sillage is rated 3.07 out of 4, indicating above-average projection that ensures you will leave a noticeable trail. Multiple reviewers describe it as very beautiful and long lasting, confirming that this is a fragrance that will see you through an entire evening without reapplication.

The Community Says

The fragrance community on Fragrantica, Parfumo, and Escentual approaches Belle en Corset with warm appreciation, particularly from Classique loyalists. Reviewers consistently praise it as a worthy celebration of the original's 20th anniversary. The bottle design draws particular admiration, with the ivory satin corset motif seen as a perfect marriage of Gaultier's fashion sensibility and fragrance heritage. Some reviewers express mild disappointment that the composition does not offer a genuinely new interpretation, but most accept this as a beautiful tribute rather than a reinvention.

Who Should Buy This

Belle en Corset is designed for collectors of Jean Paul Gaultier limited editions and devoted fans of the original Classique who want to own a piece of the fragrance's anniversary history. Women who love powdery, sweet white floral orientals will find much to appreciate in its warm, enveloping character. It also makes an excellent gift for anyone who considers Classique their signature scent.

The Bottom Line

Classique Belle en Corset is a loving tribute to one of the most iconic feminine fragrances of the 1990s, pairing the beloved powdery-floral oriental formula with a stunning haute couture bottle. It delivers strong performance and undeniable charm, even if it does not venture far from the original that inspired it.