Skip to content
🪨 Earth

Chypre

Bergamot, oakmoss, labdanum — the 1917 architecture IFRA rewrote, still the most mossy, bitter elegance in the wheel.

Chypre is bergamot over moss — the 1917 idea IFRA rewrote, still the bitterest elegance on the wheel.

Bergamot, oakmoss, labdanum — the 1917 architecture IFRA rewrote, still the most mossy, bitter elegance in the wheel.

Chypre sits in the Earth group of this atlas. Wood and moss — dry timber, sandal, oud smoke, vetiver root and chypre.

FamilyMossy chypre
Key notesBergamot, oakmoss
SeasonAutumn
LandmarkCoty 1917
WearTailored day
WatchIFRA oakmoss

The profile

728654888440

The scent pyramid

Top Bergamot · Peach lactone · Aldehyde · Green snap Heart Rose · Jasmine · Patchouli · Carnation Base Oakmoss · Labdanum · Patchouli · Musk

Seven chapters on this family

Frequently asked questions

What is Chypre?
Bergamot, oakmoss and labdanum — the 1917 idea IFRA rewrote. The architecture survived the molecule.
EDP vs EDT — what changes?
Concentration is oil in alcohol, not a quality score. EDT (about 5–15%) shows more top; EDP (about 15–20%) shows more heart and base. Houses vary; this is not a lab assay.
How should I wear Chypre?
One or two sprays on skin or cloth — sternum or hair, not a cloud in a lift. Let it turn an hour before you add more.
Which season fits?
Autumn, tailored day. Summer heat can turn moss bitter and loud.
Does skin chemistry change it?
Yes. Warm, moist skin amplifies sweet and spice; dry or cool skin can turn the same juice woody, soapy or short. Test on your skin, not only a blotter.
What about IFRA and oakmoss?
Oakmoss is IFRA-limited. Classic chypre and fougère bases were rewritten; modern “moss” is often a reconstruction. Ask a clinician about reactions — this is not medical advice.
Any ethics or materials I should know?
Read the materials chapter for the actual load. Niche and designer often share a family and disagree on dose.
Is this medical or allergy advice?
No. This atlas is cultural and editorial. Fragrance can irritate; oakmoss, eugenol, citrus oils and musks are common triggers. See a clinician for reactions. Nothing here is a diagnosis, treatment or safety sheet.