Most people seem to review the brand or actual items for sale rather than the store when it comes to reviews of a store.
So, here's what - if I wanted a review of a brand of perfume, shoes or clothes, I probably wouldn't consult Yelp (but then again, I wouldn't consult Yelp for much these days).
In any case, yes, Serge Lutens is the house for the most interesting, unique and complex scents. They're sold in the US as well at Barney's and other boutique shops. The 50 ml rectangular bottles can often be found for a discount on Amazon even. However, the Bell Jars, which are exclusively available at Barney's, will cost your life in the US ($280-$300 for a bottle of 75 ml or 2.5 fl oz). They are 130-140 euros in Paris. Since I'm such a ballin international jetsetter, I came here to pick up a bottle for myself and a bottle for a friend.
Now, somewhere on the net, a perfume blogger wrote a review of the shop which made it seem like THE destination, a den of perfumes where a perfume lover may luxuriate in the various scents on offer.
So, here is where I realized I could never be a blogger. I never could have written that review after visiting this shop - I just don't have the imagination. Even that last paragraph took some effort to compose now that I've experienced the anti-climax of visiting the shop.
Here's the thing, it's still worthwhile to trek out to the shop if you intend on purchasing a Serge Lutens. Purchases here will be packed with the envelope of 32 wax samples of Serge Lutens scents - as far as I know, this is the only place where you can get these.
The store is underwhelming. The composition is the same as what appears in press photos but the actual store looks a lot less romantic if that makes any sense. It's a very ordinary store that serves its purpose if you're looking to buy a bottle of perfume, but if you're expecting an experience, I would recommend Jovoy, which is close by and has a huge variety of rare and niche perfumes. The sales associates are all super knowledgeable and you can spend HOURS here. Really, it's brilliant. Bon Marche, or the Beaute building of Printemps both also have a wider range of perfumes you may wish to buy in Paris. If you get two bottles of anything, you'll even be able to claim a VAT refund, which will save you some more money. read more