Le Mâle (1995)
by Jean Paul Gaultier

Le Mâle was the first designer fragrance that I sensed a profound olfactory connection with and had been wearing it, almost exclusively, for approximately nine years. It was only when I acquired my third 125ml bottle that I started thinking about obtaining a second scent, merely as a complimentary alternative.

Then I discovered Basenotes…

For the past year, I had not really worn Le Mâle (and I hadn't even touched that newly purchased bottle) – I just felt the need to take a break from it, while exploring other fragrances. Several bottle purchases later, however, it reached a point where, every time I mused over which fragrance to wear for the day, my bottle of Le Mâle was constantly ignored. After several weeks of this happening, this newly-formed habit compelled me to wonder why I was always overlooking it. However, for some unknown reason, I could never reach a firm conclusion – I simply assumed that I was too busy enjoying and exploring new (and unfamiliar) fragrances.

Then, a few days ago, I decided to finally spray some Le Mâle on my arm (more for the sake of nostalgia than anything else). It then became very clear why I never reached for it...

Maybe it’s an age thing, maybe my tastes have drastically changed, or maybe my nose has become more sophisticated (thus prompting the inevitable prospect of fragrance snobbery). Whatever the reason, it suddenly dawned on me how uncomfortable and self-conscious I would feel if I was to ever wear it out in public again.

Like everyone else, I want to feel proud of whatever I’m wearing and, sadly, Le Mâle has now fallen heavily from grace – I had long moved on, without even knowing it. In addition, the notes smell more synthetic now than when I last remembered. I still admire it for its longevity and sillage but now find it to be too brash, unsophisticated, clichéd and somewhat embarrassing to even consider applying to my skin.

Although that third bottle is now with a new owner, catching whiffs of Le Mâle (from time to time) will always conjure up many happy memories. Well, as long as I’m not the one wearing it…

R.I.P. Le Mâle.

[Original submission date: 26 February 2007]

Cheapo synthetic vanilla cloying with an overdose of tonka drydown.
Otherwise perfection---in marketing.

The bottle is the biggest hit since Coca Cola decided to copy a woman's curves in theirs. And, from the official JPG ad:

"Since Jean Paul Gaultier's first men's collection, he has shown men that they can indulge in the forbidden, and that a kilt or dress can be worn with virility."

Yeah, I can see Braveheart forsaking his kilt to wear a dress, preferably a sequined gown while leading The Scots in battle.

We continue the hype:

" A reminder to them that nothing in life is totally black or white but always a blend."

Welcome to Orwellian Doublespeak. How many fingers am I holding up, Winslow?

"Jean Paul Gaultier now transforms the man in a sailor's T-shirt into both the symbol and bottle of Le Male."

Alone tonight, sailor?

I can remember the first time I tried Le Mâle vividly. As soon as I sprayed it on, the mint / artemesia / bergamot top notes had a peculiar (and not entirely pleasant) effect on me. I was certain I had made a mistake with this intriguing fragrance, and almost regretted trying it.

However, as the day wore on, the scent actually transformed itself into one of the most delicious and ingenious blends I have ever experienced. The sandalwood / ceder accord was was soothing, while the vanilla note tied it all together into a scrumptuous confection. Le Mâle turned out to be Le Fantastique!

Advice: Use sparingly. Le Mâle is deceptively strong - - if you spray too much, it will overpower you. Used in moderation, it will enchant you.

I tried if i could like this fragrance, but ultimately i have to agree that this one (whether good or bad) a typical "metrosexual" reality!
Thereafter, being lasting and silage monster is an impractical quality and can't insist me to put in regular use.

Neutral: just because i spent a heavy price to get it. Worst "2nd" Buy in my 75+ collection. 1st is the "Fleur D' Male" (yakhhhhhhh!!!)
And after getting these 2 from JPG, i learnt to try atleast twice before buying any PERFUME!

Well....after almost 6 yrs(was 17 when i first had it) i decided to buy a full bottle (now that im old enough..24 almost) and bought one today. Opening is sharp with Mint, Cinnamon & Lavender. After few minutes Jean Paul Gaultier's magic notes, i mean Vanilla-Amber (hint of cedar) kicks in hard with BRUT force and makes your day sweet as hell!

If you like it try Gaultier2...

THUMBS UP!!!

Le Male !!!!

Is a wonderful perfume. A magisterial contrast: Power and smoothness, and freshness and warmth.
Le Male begins very masculine, but evolves towards a base very feminine, very sweet, sensual and erotic.

Le Male is a masterpiece !!!!

Thank you very much Francis Kukdjian.