Fragrance marketing loves a paradox. We’re told to find our ‘signature scent’—a single bottle to define us—yet the most interesting wearers treat perfume like a wardrobe, swapping rose for resin depending on the day. Our Lancôme’s Idôle Power Eau de Parfum Intense review seems to nod to both instincts: a rose-sandalwood composition bold enough to stand alone, but playful enough to slot into a rotation. Packaged in Y2K nostalgia (that sliver of a bottle could fit in your 2003-era low-rise jeans) and fronted by Olivia Rodrigo, it’s aiming for ‘instant classic’ status. But does it earn its spot?
The Olivia Rodrigo Effect: Nostalgia as a Gateway
Lancôme’s choice of Rodrigo as ambassador is shrewd. She embodies Gen Z’s duality: raw authenticity wrapped in early-2000s nostalgia. At the Singapore launch, singer Regina Song covered Rodrigo’s ‘Brutal’—a cheeky metaphor for the fragrance’s alleged ‘disruption.’ But let’s be clear: Idôle Power isn’t here to dismantle perfumery’s rules. It’s here to translate them for a generation raised on TikTok and Glossier. The question is whether that translation feels fresh or formulaic.
Lancôme’s latest offering isn’t attempting to reinvent perfumery—it’s recognising cultural currents. At Lancôme’s “Idôle House” in Singapore (essentially a fragrance-themed experiential space), attendees were treated to Regina Song covering Rodrigo’s “Brutal”—a calculated nod to the fragrance’s official theme song and highlighting Olivia Rodrigo as the new face of Lancôme and the fragrance.
The Scent: Rose-Sandalwood, Remixed
The juice itself is a study in smart compromises. The rose—boosted by Lancôme’s Pomarose™ twist—is sweet but not saccharine, while the sandalwood adds creamy depth without veering into heaviness. It’s a crowd-pleasing duo, but the magic lies in its adaptability: spritz it for a daytime meeting, and it reads as polished; wear it at night, and the woodiness amps up the drama. Niche enthusiasts won’t find groundbreaking artistry here, but as a versatile workhorse? It’s persuasive.
What’s genuinely interesting is how this scent profile aligns with the current aesthetic zeitgeist: it’s comfort with an edge, nostalgia with a twist. The concoction feels familiar and fresh, perfect for a generation that embraces vintage aesthetics and forward-thinking values.
The sandalwood base provides depth and staying power, while the rose keeps it sophisticated and wearable. It’s a carefully calibrated balance of statement and subtlety.
The Packaging: Customizable, But Is It Conscious?
There’s also something compelling about the Idôle Power Eau de Parfum Intense review findings. While it won’t necessarily appeal to niche fragrance enthusiasts, it successfully bridges the gap between accessibility and distinction.
The bottle—slim, refillable, rose-gold—is undeniably chic. Lancôme knows aesthetics drive desire; hence, the complimentary customizable bag tags (iron-on patches, embroidered initials) with purchase. Is it a gimmick? We think it’s a clever one: Gen Z loves personalisation, even when it’s done right. Yet the dissonance is hard to ignore: a refillable vessel marketed alongside a Y2K-themed pop-up brimming with disposable photo ops. If sustainability is part of Idôle Power’s pitch, it’s a selective commitment.
Idôle Power Eau de Parfum Intense won’t replace your favourite niche discovery, and it’s not trying to. What it offers is something arguably more useful: a reliably intriguing option for days when you want to smell expensive but approachable. At S$175 for 50ml, it’s priced for the ‘elevated everyday’ crowd—those who view fragrance as situational, not singular.
So, should it make your roster? If you’re drawn to the Rodrigo-fueled fantasy or crave a sandalwood-rose that straddles seasons, yes. Just don’t expect it to shoulder the whole weight of your olfactory identity. After all, why settle for one mood when you can have many?
Your 2003 Coming-of-Age Film, Remastered
This Idôle Power Eau de Parfum Intense review concludes that if you’re seeking olfactory innovation within mainstream perfumery, Lancôme has created something noteworthy. Available on Lancome.com.sg, all department stores, and Sephora, it’s readily accessible for those intrigued by this olfactory statement.
The fragrance takes familiar elements and combines them with just enough personality to feel relevant. It’s not attempting to be revolutionary—it’s evolutionary, a sophisticated remix of classic notes reinterpreted for today’s fragrance landscape.
For those curious about trying before buying, Lancôme offers a compelling opportunity: until May 31, 2025, you can visit any Lancôme counter to redeem a complimentary sample, taking the first step towards embracing this bold new scent.
The true power move? Understanding that sometimes, the most confident choice isn’t about following trends or defying them—it’s about finding something that resonates with your personal style evolution. With Idôle Power Eau de Parfum Intense, Lancôme offers that opportunity in a sleek, pocket-sized bottle.