Double-tap to zoom

Videos for this product

First Perfume

By Van Cleef & Arpels for Women

Sorry, First is currently sold out

Enter your email and click "Notify Me" and we will email you as soon as it becomes available.

The x Factor
The FragranceX Difference
Same Day Free Shipping
Same Day Free Shipping
Orders ship on the day that you place them and arrive within days.
Trusted since 2001
Trusted since 2001
100% authentic fragrances. You won't find knockoffs or imitations here.
Safe & Secure Checkout
Safe & Secure Checkout
100% safe and secure checkout. Your information is protected.
5 Star Customer Ratings
5 Star Customer Ratings
Over 20 million satisfied customers.

About First

First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels is a luxurious and timeless fragrance first launched in 1976. This iconic perfume marked Van Cleef & Arpels' debut into the world of olfactory elegance, capturing the brand's prestige and artistry. Designed by esteemed perfumer Jean-Claude Ellena, First Perfume embodies the sophistication and heritage of the renowned jewelry house. This sumptuous fragrance intertwines classic elegance with a modern flair, perfect for the woman who cherishes tradition yet embraces contemporary allure.

Fragrance Family:

Floral Aldehyde

Scent Type:

Luxurious, Sophisticated, Elegant

Notes:

First Perfume unveils an exquisite composition of notes, beginning with a bright burst of aldehydes harmonized with juicy peach, blackcurrant, raspberry, and hyacinth that create a vibrant introduction. This transitions into a lush heart of neroli, orchid, jasmine, rose, and lily-of-the-valley, enveloping the senses in a floral embrace. The base is a sensual blend of vetiver, civet, vanilla, musk, and amber, providing a warm and lingering finish that beckons continued allure.

Suggested Use

To enhance the longevity and sillage of First Perfume, apply it on pulse points such as behind the ears, at the neck base, and on the wrists. For an intensified scent experience, use after showering on warm, slightly damp skin. This luxurious fragrance is ideal for evening occasions, enveloping the wearer in an aura of timeless elegance.

Watch Our Review
Read the Transcript
Hey, everyone. It's Sarah. And today I'll be reviewing First by Van Cleef and Arpels. Now, this was released in 1976, and is truly a timeless perfume. Some of the notes include bergamot, French jasmine, rose, hyacinth, vanilla, and sandalwood. And what I like about this perfume is that it's very elegant. It's almost regal. So I would recommend this for the refined woman who enjoys being the center of attention. All right, ladies, it's time to go. If you want to see more reviews on our favorite products, please subscribe to our YouTube channel. And be sure to keep in touch with us through Facebook and Twitter.
Hide Transcript

FAQ for First

What does First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels smell like?

First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels is an elegant floral aldehyde fragrance that exudes a luxurious and classic aroma. With an inviting blend of aldehydes and white florals, it offers a bouquet of sophistication that romanticizes the essence of a first bloom.

What kind of scent is First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels?

First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels is classified as a floral aldehyde fragrance. It features a harmonious blend of sparkling aldehydes and floral notes, offering a refined and timeless scent experience.

What are the notes in First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels?

Top Notes: Aldehydes, Blackcurrant, Mandarin Orange, Raspberry, Peach, BergamotHeart Notes: Jasmine, Rose, Narcissus, Lily of the Valley, Carnation, Tuberose, OrchidBase Notes: Honey, Vetiver, Vanilla, Amber, Musk, Sandalwood, Civet, Oakmoss

What season is First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels best suited for?

The rich and full-bodied floral nature of First Perfume makes it ideal for spring and autumn. Its complexity goes well with the transitional temperatures of these seasons.

Is First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels suitable for all occasions?

First Perfume is versatile and suitable for a variety of occasions. It lends an air of sophistication perfect for formal events, romantic evenings, and even professional settings. Its classic charm makes it well-suited for any place where elegance is desired.

Can First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels be worn by both men and women?

First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels is traditionally aimed at women due to its floral aldehyde composition. However, those who appreciate floral and aldehydic notes can enjoy it, regardless of gender.

Where should you apply First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels for best results?

Apply First Perfume to the pulse points on your wrists, behind the ears, and at the base of the throat. These areas emit warmth, helping to diffuse the fragrance throughout the day.

How long does First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels last?

As an Eau de Parfum, First Perfume typically lasts around 6 to 8 hours, though this may vary with skin chemistry and environmental factors. The aldehydes and floral notes ensure a lingering aroma that gracefully fades into its warm, woody base.

About the Product
Attribute Name Attribute Value
Brand Van Cleef & Arpels
Fragrance Family Bergamot
Fragrance Name First
Fragrance Classification Perfume, Sample, Body Cream, Gift Set, Pure Perfume, Body Lotion, Soap, Solid Perfume, Mini, Shower Gel
Volume Available in 2 ml, 5 ml, 8 ml, 15 ml, 21 ml, 25 ml, 30 ml, 50 ml, 60 ml, 90 ml, 100 ml, 104 ml, 195 ml and 200 ml
Top Notes Bergamot, Mandarin, Blackcurrant buds (Cassis)
Heart Notes Jasmine, Lily of the Valley (Muguet), Narcissus, Rose (Turkish, Ottoman), Ylang-ylang, Clove, Aldehydes
Base Notes Sandalwood, Amber, Musk, Tonka bean, Vanilla
Gender Women
Year Of Launch 1976
Customer Reviews
4.7
443 Reviews
Write a Review
5 stars
368
4 stars
45
3 stars
6
2 stars
8
1 stars
16
Most Liked Positive Review
5

More special than words can describe!

I was given First by my husband when it first came out and we were living on the East Coast. I have never found another fragrance to equal it - I absolutely love it - and hope I will never be without it. The cream/lotion/perfum etc. are all equally great! I have had a problem finding it recently
... Read Complete Review
and was thrilled that my daughter found FragranceX.com so that her Dad could do his usual "First" Christmas gift. We BOTH love it!
vs.
Most Liked Negative Review
2

Almost no fragrance

I bought this EDT after reading "SPARE". Harry said he loved his mother's perfume fragrance. I guess I had high expectations for this Diana perfume; Alas, I am very disappointed. The scent is almost inexistent on my skin and on my clothes. weaker than weak... I even wonder if the fragrance
...
evaporated since I never had this non-existent scent experience ever in my 70 years of life. My nose cannot identify ONE SCENT of this EDT. I would have returned it if I had kept the box. Perhaps, Eau de Perfume would deliver a more potent smell. I do not recommend buying the Eau de Toilette.
Read Complete Review
443 Reviews
5

FABULOUS

FABULOUS STARTED USING JUST AFTER IT LAUNCHED. STILL USING IT IN 2026.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 3/27/2026
By SUZI
From CYPRUS
5

Certainly but it seems to have disappeared for sale what has

It was the first perfume my late mother gifted me so it holds a very important place in my life.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 11/25/2025
By Bev
From Central otago new zealand
5

Certainly but it seems to have disappeared for sale what has

It was the first perfume my late mother gifted me so it holds a very important place in my life.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 11/25/2025
By Bev
From Central otago new zealand
2

Would be nice if I could buy it, over a year now

Its a fabulous perfume if only you could get it .You have been out of stock for more than a year. I am not impressed

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 11/13/2025
By Monty
From Australia
5

Firm favourite

Total strangers have commented that I smell nice! Wish you stocked a hand bag atomiser or lighter weight bottle for travelling

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 3/19/2024
By Susie
From London UK
4

Great light scent but does not last that long

I really like that scent, but the scent is weak and doesn't last that long. Bottle is very pretty

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 2/7/2024
By Jmb
From Alhambra ca
5

would recomend and buy later

great parfum five stars perfect fragrance

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 1/11/2024
By skinner
From loup city,ne
5

buy again five stars

great scent

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 1/9/2024
By sweetheart
From ne
5

My favorite for over 40yrs

My everyday perfume since I was in my twenties. Subtle and light.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 12/27/2023
By Red
From Ottawa, Canada
5

BEEN using FIRST since 1984. I like it's femininity and subt

I feel good everytime I use this. AND, if I don't, I feel incomplete.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 12/21/2023
By Doc Maria
From Moncton New Brunswick Canada
5

Great delivery

Just a great perfume

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 11/17/2023
By Sue
From Uk
5

I have been wesring this scent from day 1, 45 YEARS

Used it long before HARRY and DIANA fame! The price has skyrocketed since this new rage!!! I love it for what it is, Classy And TIMELESS!

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 10/29/2023
By Angelique
From Toronto
2

Spicy scent

This is not suited for me after awhile it stays so strong and spicy is all I smell I'm going to give it away.

Bottom Line

No, I would not recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 9/8/2023
By Steffy
From Florida
4

I'd buy this product again

A special scent I like to wear after 5:00 Great to wear when going dining & dancing!

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 7/26/2023
By Mandie
From Houston TX
5

All good - exactly as described

Handy container ideal for handbag

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 5/11/2023
By Jonah
From UK
1

Nope!!!

Hold aroma for maybe 15 min

Bottom Line

No, I would not recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 3/6/2023
By JeriAnn
From Tx
5

Read a biography and this fragrance was mentioned

Never tried it before however love it

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 2/9/2023
By Scarlett
From Calgary Canada
5

An absolute favourite, quality scent, I will buy this again.

I wear this every day absolutely love it

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 2/7/2023
By Vic
From Australia
1

Not what I expected

I used to use this all the time as one of my signature fragrances. Sadly it appears this item was well past its shelf-life and smelled rancid. Not worth my time to send it back.

Bottom Line

No, I would not recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 2/6/2023
By Paspire
From South Carolina beaches
5

Lovely fragrance that stays with you all day!

I love a fragrance that stays with you all day.....this one does!

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 2/1/2023
By Joan-E
From Orlando
5

I would buy this product again and again

This product is I think very powerful on me. I can wear it anytime, but prefer to wear it in the evening... A classic product for classic occasions... Beautiful product

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 1/31/2023
By Alison
From Loumar Est, Bellville, South Africa
5

Indeed I would buy it again and again

It is my perfume since long, my First choice always . I found it finally at your shop . Great and old perfume. Love it

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 1/23/2023
By Fatin
From Jordan - Amman
2

Almost no fragrance

I bought this EDT after reading "SPARE". Harry said he loved his mother's perfume fragrance. I guess I had high expectations for this Diana perfume; Alas, I am very disappointed. The scent is almost inexistent on my skin and on my clothes. weaker than weak... I even wonder if the fragrance evaporated since I never had this non-existent scent experience ever in my 70 years of life. My nose cannot identify ONE SCENT of this EDT. I would have returned it if I had kept the box. Perhaps, Eau de Perfume would deliver a more potent smell. I do not recommend buying the Eau de Toilette.

Bottom Line

No, I would not recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 1/21/2023
By Gitane
From Alabama
4

Timeless elegance

I use it whenever I want to feel well put together no matter how I am dressed and where the day is going.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 1/19/2023
By Pommy
From Las Vegas
1

This is not the smell I expected!

Am sorry to say but I would never ever buy again the smell is awful. I thought I'd try as princess Diana wore it but some how I really don't think she did. I wouldn't recommend for any age. Can't believe how much I have payed!

Bottom Line

No, I would not recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 1/18/2023
By Chi T
From Prescot MERSEYSIDE
5

I would buy it again and again , Indeed

I used to have this beautiful and unique perfume since long time. It is not available in Jordan . I was so happy to find it finally 🤩

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 12/15/2022
By Faten
From Jordan -Amman
5

Loving this perfume

Spray it all over for maximum love

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 12/15/2022
By Nath
From Miami
5

I will buy this product again

This perfume is not overpowering and I received many compliments when I wear it

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 11/27/2022
By Murie
From Ontario, Canada
5

I will buy this beautiful scent again!

Whenever!

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 10/29/2022
By no nickname
From Florida
5

ABSOLUTELY!

SHE PUT BEHIND HER EARS, HER ARMS, TORSO

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 10/28/2022
By MACK, THE PROFESSOR
From TX
5

I would continue using it till it is discontinued.

After Van Cleeff was discontinued I was devastated! I received a bottle of First as a gift and I love it. I believe Van Cleeff and Arpels have discontinued making perfumes???? What then when stocks run out?? Till then I love FIRST.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 10/27/2022
By Jann
From Pretoria, South Africa.
5

My absolute favourite perfume

I use every day, but others may prefer to save for evening use as it's quite sensual.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 10/23/2022
By Pamalama
From Canberra Australia
5

Beautiful long lasting

Brilliant service , Fabulous price ! No complaints will continue to buy from you Thankyou

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 10/2/2022
By MICHELLE
From Dartmoor UK
5

Continued use

Product I love and continue to use as long as it exist.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 9/15/2022
By swtanxiety
From Rancho Cucamonga, Ca
5

Definitely buy this perfume again - love it.

Just love the smell.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 8/1/2022
By Maggiemay
From Scotland
4

Wonderful and classic

Signature fragrance

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 8/1/2022
By mish
From KCMO
5

My All-time Favorite

I have been wearing First for over 35 years!!! I get so many compliments. I'm glad I can still find this fragrance.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 7/31/2022
By Mica
From Giddings, Texas
3

i would not order again

every day

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 7/7/2022
By sammy
From aspen co.
5

Rich B Vibe

Initially smelled this perfume on my Bougie Rich Neighbour, she really sold it to me , it last forever and if you like Bergamot smells you will LOVE IT

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 6/20/2022
By Sarah Perfume
From Montreal Ca
1

I would NOT buy this item again, not the original fragrance

I have been using this fragrance since 1980. The one I received is NOT the original scent and smelled bad. I would NOT recommend ordering from this site.

Bottom Line

No, I would not recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 6/9/2022
By SIciilian Goddess
From Santa Clarita, CA
5

I'll order from FragranceX again

First is a long time favourite.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 5/9/2022
By Linda
From Weybridge, United Kingdom
5

I've been searching for this one

Very exquisite perfume. One that you use for a special occasion.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 5/1/2022
By Purvi
From Mumbai
5

yes all the time

smells lovely,feel good every time i wear it

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 3/21/2022
By nursee
From new zealand
5

Excellent smell for my.loved !

I loved this perfume.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 3/13/2022
By Inga
From Israel
5

I buy this perfume over and over again

Love this perfume. Get lots of compliments as people love the smell of it. My Mum also used it and it reminds me of her every day,

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 2/25/2022
By Maggie May
From Edinburgh, Scotland
5

I would but it again and again

Use it everyday, everywhere

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 2/25/2022
By GB
From Uk
5

All time signature fragrance for me!

All over.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 2/14/2022
By Lolita
From Gloucestershire, England
5

This is my 3rd bottle of this, no need to say anything else

Lovely smell, arrives on time

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 2/2/2022
By Sylv
From Uk
5

I would buy this all the time

I wear this perfume all the time

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 1/21/2022
By JC
From UK
5

I've bought this fragrance years passed and and future years

I have no comments to the negative it's all positive I've used this favor fragrance for years it just became a part of me..... I especially like the oils....

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 1/19/2022
By Maria
From Aransas Pass Tx