En Passant
Frédéric Malle En Passant is an eau de parfum built around the fresh, delicate character of lilac. Created by Olivia Giacobetti and launched in 2000, it evokes a quiet Parisian morning in May, when the blossoms are in full bloom and the air feels light and clean.
The opening is green and bright, with a herbal lift that gives way to a soft, airy floral heart. Lilac sits at the centre of the composition, supported by other white and rosy florals and a gentle sweetness that feels closer to honey than sugar. A fresh, faintly aquatic quality runs through the whole fragrance, giving it a sense of transparency rather than heaviness.
As it settles, a dry woody base of cedarwood and a soft musky warmth emerge, rounding the scent without weighing it down. The result is a balanced, uplifting floral that feels polished and serene.
En Passant tends to sit close to the skin and generally carries moderately across a room, usually lasting through a typical day. It suits daytime wear, professional settings and evenings out, and it moves easily across the seasons, from the lighter months of spring and summer to the cooler days of autumn and winter.
Presented as an eau de parfum in a 100ml bottle from Frédéric Malle.
Please note: images are a guide only. Packaging and bottle design may occasionally differ from those shown due to manufacturer updates or promotions.
The Composition
En Passant Eau de Parfum by Frédéric Malle is structured with layered accords that give the composition both clarity and controlled depth. The structure feels deliberate rather than excessive, moving with balance from its initial impression into a more grounded and composed core.
The opening is defined by Cucumber, Galbanum, Basil, Banana, Orange , delivering brightness and immediate lift while establishing the tonal direction of the fragrance.
As it develops, the heart introduces Lilac, Lily-of-the-Valley, Jasmine, Honey, Petitgrain, Carnation, Rose , creating a more textured centre. The transition remains smooth, allowing each note to emerge without disrupting the overall balance of the structure.
The base settles into Musk, Amber, Sandalwood, Vanilla, Cedarwood , providing cohesion and depth to the drydown while maintaining continuity with the freshness established in the opening.
Shaped with clarity and structural precision from first impression through to drydown.
SELECTED FOR THE BOUTIQUE
This composition earns its place in the Boutique through its structure, clarity, and assured identity, reflecting Frédéric Malle at a level that stands apart from the ordinary. Defined by floral tones, it develops with measured progression and composure rather than excess. It wears with moderate longevity and moderate projection while maintaining balance and control. Introduced in 2000 , it is presented as Eau de Parfum.
Note Pyramid
The Scent Vault
Join thousands earning on every order
Earn points as you shop, redeem for money off, and unlock member perks.
Find out more
The Scent Vault Gift Cards
Give the gift of choice
One card, every scent. Let them pick the fragrance that is truly them. Send it instantly by email, or schedule it for a future date with a message of your own.
Shop gift cards
