Normandie (1935)
by Jean Patou

I think VintageVogue has got a point here with 'between Vol de Nuit and Arpege'. It is to my perception more chypré style than Vol de Nuit already is. However, I found the opening very reminiscent of the original Tabac Blond and a very Caron-esque vibe overall (opoponax among other notes). The drydown loses me slightly with a very soapy quality, which is so predominant in many Ma Collection fragrances. Sillage is above average right into the heart. This is a nice and enjoyable EdT, but not the most unique Patou classic.

31st July, 2011. (Last Edited: 29th November, 2011.)

Totally agree with VintageVogue- Normandie- it's like Vol de Nuit. Vol de Nuit minus the spicey top notes. Amber -vanilla combo ,a bit dusty ,a bit dark ,abit old world ,but very classic and delicious. One to try. This one could never offend anyone and if it does, they are out of their mind ! Proctor and Gamble need to re launch this one- they must be crazy to have discontinued such a warm and wonderful fragrance.

4th July, 2010.

I recently purchased a 2.5 ml Normandie EDT online largely based on these (and several other) reviews. I'm happy to report that Normandie does not disappoint; in fact, it's a pure delight. My usual fall-winter fragrance is Jicky. This year, I've had a heck of a time finding the EDT in the configuration I prefer (3.4 or 1.7 spray or splash); it seems supplies are low. Jicky has been my colder-weather standby since the late 80s --- I adore it. This year I was confronted with having to give it up, at least for this season, and finding a suitable replacement.

I would not have chosen Normandie except for the consistantly high ratings it has received. Also, I have great respect for Patou frangrances. So....I'm glad I chose this fragrance: it's everything that VintageVouge and Paloma54 described and it lasts and lasts on me (24 hours and counting). I love old world fragrance and Normandie sings of old world restraint and class. The fusion of floral carnation, rose and jasmine warm and comfort without demanding attention. The basenotes of vanilla, oakmoss and amber embrace, cushion and then envelop the florals for a softly-lush finish. Restraint, richness and a nod to an era of elegance and style. Normandie is a very suitable choice for me this year; I'm glad we found each other.

22nd November, 2009. (Last Edited: 2nd February, 2010.)

Jean Patou's Normandie (1935) strikes me as a beautiful medium somewhere between Guerlain's Vol de Nuit (1933) and Arpege de Lanvin (1927). One of my friends swears by Normandie as an autumn and winter fragrance. Frankly, I like it in the warmer months as well. If you have any desire to own this lovely, get it now while there are still a few bottles available online. Part of the esteemed Patou Ma Collection reprisals, Normandie is classified as an oriental-ambery type. The carnation, jasmine and rose are all in the forefront, while the back notes consist of amber, vanilla and woods. This is a lady-like and restrained fragrance, not one which races ahead of you into the room. No, this one floats in with you, enveloping you in a sillage of sophistication and restraint. Normandie is powdery in the final act, but not in the way that, say, Rive Gauche is powdery. It's powdery more in the line of Vol de Nuit or even Caron's En Avion. Normandie is as fashionable today as it was decades ago when it was released to celebrate the maiden voyage of the transatlantic liner of the same name. If anyone from Patou is reading this, please, please return Normandie to your regular line-up. It deserves no less than to be placed in the same category as Joy and 1000.

21st June, 2006.

A wonderful, soft, ambery oriental which is usually paired in my own mind with Balenciaga's Prelude. Both of these have wonderful amber accords, although Normandie is a bit less sweet than Prelude, and may have a bit more of an incense note. This is wonderful in cool weather: distinguished and soothing.

29th October, 2005.