Still heading through my perfume collection to see what else I have hanging about I came across this little entry. I vaguely remember using it but I can't remember how I came to own it. Probably in one of my perfume shopping sprees. But I am not a fan of floral fragrances so I have a feeling that this is a floral gem which I have left on the side for emergencies. But I plan on bringing it back to live with a couple of sprays.

** Perfume Packaging **

The Gucci brand is known for its 'square' design and even though this was one of their earlier perfumes. (Released in 1997) it still represents their simple yet stunning designs. Compared to the newer bottles I do find this slightly boring and not as special or glamorous as their other bottles. It has a solid glass bottom with a steel square lid. It looks solid and stable but when you actually hold the bottle it seems to feel more fragile and feminine then it looks. I can't help but be attracted by perfume bottles and they are on of the main things that attract me to a perfume. I like originality and something a bit special This is why I cant understand why I have this perfume as I really am not excited by the packaging at all.

The glass allows you to see the greenish type liquid inside which is quite important in terms of Gucci Envy. Not only because it obviously represents the famous saying 'Green with Envy' but it also represents the green floral fragrance which is the body of the perfume. A simple yet stylish design that in my opinion lakes imagination. Hopefully the liquid inside will be slightly more stimulating.

** The Heart Notes **

The heart scents (otherwise known as the middle notes) are what makes up the main body of the perfume and is usually what catches the most attention and appeal. The heart notes are most apparent within an hour of wearing the perfume and generally last throughout the life of the perfume on the skin. So when people ask 'oh what's that smell?' it's usually these notes that they can sense.

Hyacinth, Magnolia, Jasmine, Lily of the valley, Violet, Iris and Wood Musk.

Created by the famous perfumer, Maurice Roucel it definitely represents his tradition of creating smells of flowers, meadows and forests. Using nature in his entire range Gucci Envy is a floral perfume full to the brim of the warm yet light green scents. A bouquet of flowers weighed down with a bit of musk creates a powerful blast of freshness. Obviously you have to be a floral fan to really appreciate the great mix that Roucel has created.

** Wearing The Fragrance **

As soon as the perfume is sprayed you get an instant hit of sweet almost bitterness. The soft floral almost gives you a slight metallic aroma, only very slightly which in turn introduces the darker side of the perfume perfectly. The initial crispness almost reminds me of a burst of lemon, yet this perfume has no fruitiness to it at all. Although a floral perfume it definitely has an edgy undertone which helps back up the 'Envy' name. It would be pointless having such a strong name with a light and airy perfume behind it.

After the first initial burst of freshness the fragrance begins to settle and within five minutes it adjusts itself into a strong and almost deep fresh forest smell. It becomes warm and the wood musk definitely makes itself apparent but still keeping the floral aroma floating around. This keep the perfume feminine as wood and forest scents often indicate a male fragrance. The soft floral fragrances almost float around like butterflies and whenever the fragrance takes a dance around your nose you still smell the pleasant soft aroma as well as the deep musk that powders itself out.

Crisp, Green and sharp the fragrance only needs one or two sprays or it will become over powering. After spraying the perfume three times it has given me a slight foggy headache and it is definitely one that sticks in the throat. However, if used sparingly as an evening perfume I can imagine this being easy to wear. It is long lasting which is always a good thing with a perfume and the complete wave after wave of notes blending together ensures that it doest stay too strong and blends with your skin throughout the day. I can't say that this is a perfume I would choose to wear. The floral really isn't for me, and although this is light mixed with a deep musk I still feel that it comes across as too strong. I prefer fruity scents and other then the initial tinge of lemon, this has no fruitiness whatsoever.

In my opinion this is definitely a classic perfume but still fits into the modern floral category. The initial green crispiness makes it fresh and feminine, but it becomes slightly sensual with the help of the woody musk it works well as an evening or night time perfume.

** Price, Availability & Other Products **

As with most perfumes the price varies depending on where you got and what size you get. I would always advice you to look online as there are so many perfume retailers now. As I said at the beginning of my review I have to be honest and say I really don't know how I got this perfume. I obviously bought it but at what price I couldn't tell you! However, now Gucci Envy in priced approximately at £20 for 30ml. with a 50mlo for £30 I would say that this is about average, if not cheaper then average for a Gucci perfume.

Gucci Envy also comes in-
Body Lotion 150ml
Bath & Shower Gel 150ml

** Recommendation **

As I expect with most Gucci perfumes, this is a classic timeless scent. But somehow the crispiness and freshness kept by the light florals ensures the perfume stays modern. It is extremely floral with a bouquet of different depths of aromas. It isn't one for me but I am sure that floral lovers will be more then happy with this.

I would recommend this as an evening or special occasion perfume because of the lingering musk and almost warm sultry side of the fragrance. The Gucci brand is classic and I think that as a gift the perfume should go down well. Just keep in mind that it may be best for someone who only uses perfumes for special occasions or someone who you know prefers floral to anything else. Long lasting and strong the quality shines through, just don't spray too much or you will get the overpowering, chocking sensation which is far from pleasant.

Personally if I did smell this on someone else I wouldn't be green with envy. It may get a slight amount of interest but I don't think it is anything extremely special. It is nice to have on the shelf but I can't say that it is something I would choose again. I have to give it three stars because of how well the notes work together and how they have created a strong long lasting perfume. Staying in fashion for over 10 years is never an easy task. However, in my opinion Gucci Envy is rather boring and uninspiring, the overall powdery floral for me is just average. Gucci have done much better and this won't be added to my wish list.

Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!