On Wednesday, July 1, Princess Diana would have celebrated her 65th birthday. Nearly three decades after her death, the People's Princess continues to influence fashion and beauty, with her favourite fragrance now unveiled: First by Van Cleef & Arpels, a floral perfume launched in 1976.
Prince Harry’s Revelation in Spare
Prince Harry referenced the scent in his bestselling memoir Spare, revealing he brought a bottle of his mother's perfume to a therapy session to help unlock memories of her. He wrote: 'At the start of our session, I lifted the lid, took a deep sniff. I read somewhere that smell is our oldest sense, and that fitted with what I experienced in that moment, images rising from what felt like the most primal part of my brain.'
The Scent Profile
First opens with bright notes of blackcurrant, peach and bergamot, then develops into a rich floral heart of jasmine, narcissus, rose and orchid, settling into a warm base of sandalwood, vanilla, amber and vetiver. The result is a sophisticated, powdery floral scent that remains popular almost 50 years after its launch.
Other Royal Fragrances
Diana is not the only royal associated with a signature scent. Queen Elizabeth II reportedly favoured White Rose by Floris, a fresh floral fragrance from the historic British perfumer. Catherine, Princess of Wales, wore Illuminum's White Gardenia Petals on her wedding day in 2011. Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, has named Wild Bluebell by Jo Malone London among her favourite scents.
Customer Reviews
First has received many positive reviews. One fan shared: 'Absolutely love it, I've worn it for 40 years.' Another said: 'My favorite scent for years.' A third added: 'One of my favourites. Long lasting. Floral and powdery, but a winner.' One reviewer noted: 'Everyone tells me that I smell good when I wear this perfume.' However, not all feedback is glowing; one disappointed buyer commented: 'I’m sorry I wasted the money. Did not smell good at all.' On a brighter note, a happy customer wrote: 'Bought for my mother’s 102 birthday, her favourite perfume that she couldn't find... not only did they have it but was delivered in 24 hours. Very impressed and mum is thrilled.'
