This Is Not a Blue Bottle 1/.1 Review: The Original Blue Bottle by Histoires de Parfums

When Histoires de Parfums launched the 'This is not a blue bottle' collection, it was an instant conversation starter. The name itself is a playful nod to Magritte's famous painting, challenging our perception of what a fragrance can be. The collection has since expanded to include several variations, but it all began with the original: This is not a blue bottle 1/.1. In this review, we'll dive deep into the scent, performance, and story behind this iconic fragrance, and see how it compares to its siblings like This is not a blue bottle 1/.7 and This is not a blue bottle 1/.4.

The 1/.1 is often described as the most 'blue' of the bunch, despite the name's insistence otherwise. It's a fresh, aromatic fougère that evokes the feeling of a sea breeze on a sunny Mediterranean coast. Created by perfumer Karine Vinchon-Spenlehauer, this scent is a tribute to the freedom and adventure of the open sea. But does it live up to the hype? Let's find out.

Fragrance Notes and Composition

This is not a blue bottle 1/.1 opens with a burst of zesty bergamot and bitter orange, immediately transporting you to a citrus grove overlooking the sea. The heart is a classic fougère accord of lavender and geranium, softened by a touch of violet leaf that adds a subtle green, aquatic nuance. The base is where the fragrance truly shines: a warm, salty blend of ambergris, musk, and cedarwood that lingers on the skin like a memory of the ocean.

The composition is surprisingly complex for a 'fresh' scent. The interplay between the citrus top notes and the mineral, salty base creates a dynamic that evolves beautifully over time. It's not a linear aquatic; it has depth and character that sets it apart from many mainstream blue fragrances. The lavender here is not herbal or sharp but rather smooth and slightly sweet, blending seamlessly with the geranium to create a floral-herbal heart that is both refreshing and comforting.

• Top notes: Bergamot, Bitter Orange, Grapefruit
• Heart notes: Lavender, Geranium, Violet Leaf
• Base notes: Ambergris, Musk, Cedarwood, Vetiver

Performance and Longevity

One of the most common questions about fresh fragrances is how long they last. This is not a blue bottle 1/.1 performs admirably for its category. On skin, it projects moderately for the first two hours, then settles into a closer, skin-hugging scent that lasts 6-8 hours. On clothing, you can expect even more longevity, easily lasting a full day. The sillage is not overwhelming but certainly noticeable, making it suitable for both office and casual wear.

The fragrance works best in warmer weather, where its fresh and salty notes can truly shine. However, it's versatile enough to be worn year-round, especially in more temperate climates. It's a scent that feels clean and invigorating, perfect for a morning shower or a day at the beach. If you're looking for a signature summer scent, this could be it.

• Tip: For best performance, apply to pulse points and avoid rubbing. The salty base notes develop beautifully with body heat.

Comparison with Siblings: 1/.4 and 1/.7

The 'This is not a blue bottle' collection includes several variations, each with its own character. This is not a blue bottle 1/.4 is a darker, more mysterious take, with incense and leather notes that give it a smoky, resinous quality. It's less aquatic and more oriental, making it a great choice for evening wear or cooler months. This is not a blue bottle 1/.7, on the other hand, is a greener, more aromatic version, with prominent notes of galbanum and oakmoss that evoke a forest after rain.

Compared to its siblings, the 1/.1 remains the most straightforward and wearable interpretation of the 'blue' concept. It's the one that most people would associate with the sea, while the others explore different facets of the color blue. If you're new to the collection, the 1/.1 is a safe and rewarding starting point. For those who already love the original, the 1/.4 and 1/.7 offer interesting variations that expand the olfactory palette.

• 1/.1: Fresh, salty, aquatic – the original blue
• 1/.4: Dark, resinous, incense – a nocturnal blue
• 1/.7: Green, aromatic, mossy – a forest blue

Packaging and Presentation

True to its name, the bottle is not blue – it's clear glass, allowing the pale blue juice to show through. The design is minimalist and elegant, with a simple black cap and a clean label that lists the name and concentration. It's a bottle that looks good on any dresser, and the magnetic cap adds a touch of luxury. The 100ml size is generous, and the price point is reasonable for a niche fragrance of this quality.

Histoires de Parfums has a reputation for beautiful packaging, and this is no exception. The box features the iconic 'This is not a blue bottle' text in a bold font, with a subtle blue gradient that hints at the scent inside. It's a unisex presentation that appeals to both men and women, much like the fragrance itself.

Who Should Buy This is not a blue bottle 1/.1?

This fragrance is for anyone who loves fresh, aquatic scents but wants something more sophisticated than the typical designer blue. It's perfect for those who appreciate a salty, mineral edge rather than a sweet, fruity aquatic. The unisex nature makes it suitable for all genders, and the versatility means it can be worn in many settings. If you're a fan of Ambre 114 or other Histoires de Parfums creations, you'll likely enjoy the brand's take on a fresh fougère.

It's also an excellent choice for collectors of the blue bottle series. Whether you're starting with the original or adding to your collection, the 1/.1 is a cornerstone that represents the brand's philosophy of challenging conventions. For a more personalized experience, consider the On demand discovery set, which allows you to sample multiple fragrances before committing to a full bottle.

This is not a blue bottle 1/.1 is a masterful interpretation of the aquatic fougère genre. It's fresh, salty, and invigorating, with a complexity that reveals itself over time. Whether you're a longtime fan of Histoires de Parfums or new to the brand, this original blue bottle is a must-try. Explore the full collection and find your perfect blue – start with the 1/.1 and see where the sea takes you.