Guerlain Perfume

Guerlain has been making perfume since 1828, which makes it one of the oldest fragrance houses still operating today. Almost a century later, in 1921, the brand created something genuinely new to the world: Shalimar, the first ambery perfume ever made. That single fragrance didn't just become a bestseller, it created an entire category of scent that perfumers are still working within today.

Shalimar: A Love Story In A Bottle

Shalimar takes its name and inspiration from a genuinely remarkable piece of history. Perfumer Jacques Guerlain was moved by the love story between Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the same couple whose devotion inspired the Taj Mahal. "Shalimar" means "temple of love" in Sanskrit. Built around bergamot, iris, rose and a heavy vanilla base, it's housed in a distinctive blue, fan-stoppered bottle that's become as recognisable as the scent itself. More than a century later, Shalimar still sells at a rate of roughly 100 bottles an hour worldwide.

Mon Guerlain: The Modern Side Of The House

If Shalimar represents Guerlain's history, Mon Guerlain represents where the brand is today. It's a softer, more contemporary fragrance built around lavender, sandalwood and vanilla, designed to feel personal and modern rather than grand and historic. The two fragrances couldn't sit further apart in mood, which is exactly the point. Guerlain has spent two centuries proving it can do both timeless and current without losing its identity in either direction.

Buying Guerlain Perfumes In Kenya

House Of Essence carries the Guerlain range with nationwide delivery across Kenya, pay on delivery available in Nairobi, and M-Pesa or card payment everywhere else. Shalimar is the choice if you want a genuine piece of perfume history, while Mon Guerlain suits anyone after something lighter and more contemporary. Browse the collection above, or check our Women's Perfumes range for more options.