✕
Sorry, First is currently unavailable
Enter your email and click "Notify Me" and we will email you as soon as it becomes available.
Join coupon list
Review Snapshot for First
Write a Review
95%
95%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend
95%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend
VS
First Reviewed by 117 customers
Submitted 4/1/2026
By
From Homewood illinois
Verified Reviewer
5
It is the best perfume I have ever worn!
I wear it every day!
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 11/15/2025
By
From Florida
5
I have used this product over 20 years. Only one I love.
First is by far the best fragrance bar none!!!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 10/31/2025
By
From Springfield Mass
5
I LOVE IT!
I have worn this for years and would buy it at any $!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 9/17/2025
By
From Florida
5
Why discontinue such a popular frangrance?
Why would they discontinue such a popular fragrance. Any bottles left out there have quadrupled in price.
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 3/7/2025
By
From Brisbane Australia
5
Absolutely love this perfume. My all tine favorite.
Always feel very feminine with this perfume. Would love it to wear daily. But so hard to get.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 2/28/2025
By
From New Zealand
5
Love First perfume. When will it be available?
When available?
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 6/23/2024
By
From Gainesville
5
No other perfume compares to First
I have been using first since the 1980s. I loved it back then and I've loved it since. I have tried to find alternative fragrances but a lot are too sweet. First is my signature perfume. One day i will find an alternative.
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 5/4/2024
By
From Adelaide, South Australia
1
Love this have worn it 30 years. Too expensive for me now, i
Can't afford!
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 12/15/2023
By
From Roanoke, Va
4
I would buy this again, I love it and have used for years.
It is just a really nice scent, not too strong. But has become too expensive. It was nothing like the price it has become.
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 12/11/2023
By
From Melbourne. Australia
4
I would not buy this product again provided price is right
I use it every day but now cant afford it.
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 10/23/2023
By
From Cape Town South Africa
5
I have baugth this product for years I will keep buying it
I use it every day everything good about it
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 10/18/2023
By
From iceland
5
I have bought this product for years.
The fragrance.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 10/7/2023
By
From Albany , GA
5
I would buy again and again
Have been using eau de parfum for over 30 years daily - I love it!
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 8/25/2023
By
From London, England
5
It's been my First and Favourite since early 70's
My Uncle worked on International Airlines so he used to bring me back fragrances from Paris etc. I'm 60 and got my first refillable Canister on my 15th birthday. I only started experimenting with different scents last year, still, go back to my favourite First. Another one which my husband bought me in Dubai airport was First Love also Van Cleef & Arpels very scares
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 5/1/2023
By
From UK
1
product was too expensive for the small container
product too expensive for such a small container
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 3/25/2023
By
From McAllen
5
I would buy this again when back in stock
Spritz above and walk into it. I don't want to recommend to friends bc then I have to change my fragrance. Has happened too many times!!
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 3/13/2023
By
From Ontario Canada
5
I have used First since 1977. I spray on my chest once.
Last all day. Light, not over whelming. Husband love fragrance!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 2/25/2023
By
From Alabama
4
First by Van Cleef &Arpels
Packaging was not brand name but rather a nondescript Perfume.com aerosol so I wasn't sure it was authentic
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 2/25/2023
By
From Garden City
5
Fragrance at its best..
I use it on specialnoccasions and in church. I admire the scent, very lady-like8 had been using it for.more than 20 years and never grew tired of it.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 12/27/2022
By
From Sweetwater Ct, Virginia Beach, VA
5
Fragrance at its best..
I've used First perfume by Van and Arpels since 1988 when I was in KSA. When I left I brought 2 bottles with me and they lasted for more than 10 yrs. I seldom used it because I may not be able to afford it after I lost my job. After 25 yrs, i looked for the same perfume here in the US. The fragrance did not change. I'm still a big fan...
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 12/21/2022
By
From Sweetwater Ct, Virginia Beach, VA
5
I will buy this product as long as I can afford it!
It's my favorite perfume. Pretty expensive but when I can afford it to me is worth it.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 12/5/2022
By
From Jacksonville
5
One of my super favorite perfumes.
Use for all occasions, always a winner!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 10/9/2022
By
From South Africa
5
This is my favorite perfume thank you!!
My favorite perfume but it's getting harder to find but not here thank you perfume. Com!!!😀
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 10/4/2022
By
From Nevada, Mo.
5
First
When I first got it, I was upset thought it smelled like gasoline but than I shook it up and wore it for a day. I LOVE it.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 8/27/2022
By
From Shallowater, Texas
5
My "go to " perfume.
I love this perfume. Fresh, yet with a feminine smell - smells as if you could be sexy if you wanted!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 8/21/2022
By
From london
5
I bought this as a gift
My friend loves this perfume and I must admit it smells amazing
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 7/22/2022
By
From UK
5
I would buy this product again and again! Excellent service
Absolutely love it..looked for it for a long time & finally found it by you. True advertising. Am very happy & would order again for sure.
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 1/30/2022
By
From Israel
5
Van Cleef and Arpel is the best
I've used this perfume/cologne a number of years. Wunderbar!!!!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 11/10/2021
By
From Roseville, California
5
First is a light perfume. Is from Paris I have about 50 y
Is light. Is fresh
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 10/31/2021
By
From Milton Canada
5
This beautiful fragrance arrived early drama free Happy 😃
Love all the perfumes I purchased nothing bad to say Iam very happy with this company
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 10/28/2021
By
From Gold Coast Qld Australian
5
A winner every time!
This fragrance is long lasting. Every time I wear it some one will ask what I am wearing. It has been my favourite perfume since I first bought it in the early 1980's
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 10/26/2021
By
From NSW
5
The best perfume I've ever purchased
This perfume is good for special occasions and a night out. Wouldn't recommend using it for school or university.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 10/8/2021
By
From Oman
5
I bought this as a gift
My friend uses it for every day use.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 9/17/2021
By
From UK
5
The best ever
Just fab perfume been using First for many years .so many compliments just live it
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 9/1/2021
By
From Uk
5
Love this perfume first time I bought it was in 1990
Love it
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 8/4/2021
By
From San Juan puerto rico
5
Yes
the product is good, I have been using it for years
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 6/7/2021
By
From Montreal, Quebec
5
Yes yes yes ! I will buy this product again ....so so sweet
Love it !
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 6/6/2021
By
From Laval Canada
5
I love this parfum. I have worn it for a very long time and
Love it
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 4/15/2021
By
From LOUISIANA
5
Just love this perfume. One of my absolute favourites.
This is such a classic fragrance I have worn it for many years. Nothing else compares
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 3/28/2021
By
From Uk
5
My All-time Favorite!)
I bought my first bottle of "First", while on a cruise in the Caribbean, in Guadalupe. The perfumes we're a great price, so I bought a lot. My aunt always wore First and I loved how great she smelled, so I bought one for myself. When I returned, my mother spotted the bottle of "First" and begged me to let her have it. What could I do but wish I had bought a dozen bottles. Needless to say, I gave it to her. That was over thirty years ago. Last year, when I found this fantastic site, I ordered it. I've been using another brand as my daytime and saving the "First" for special occasions. Not Anymore! Time goes by so fast and I will stick to my favorite, "First", for everything, every day. When I wear it, I feel good and special!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 3/16/2021
By
From Toronto, Ontario, Canada
5
Classy and clean
Love this perfume it is fresh but classy and long lasting, sweet , but fresh, it leaves a beautiful scent behind
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 3/14/2021
By
From Hollywood Florida
5
Would buy again.
I use it every day and it's much admired.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 3/2/2021
By
From France
5
Have been using this perfume for years. I love it
I use this product everyday.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 2/13/2021
By
From Uk
5
I do buy this fragrance every time.
In the early 80s our exchange student from Paris brought 3 bags. The tiny one had his clothes, the two larger ones were filled w/every Parfume and cognac. Seems our boy's grandfathers over saw the perfumes of the country, while the other the cognacs. First by Van Cleef's & Arpel's became my all time, everyday favorite, and remains so to date. It was very expensive so when I ran out, and exchange student grew away, I would save up. I was a single mother, putting myself through college so parfum was a luxury. Every day I was complimented by men, especially the European ones at the university. A few years ago, during W's recession, my S/O asked why I didn't wear my perfume. It was still very expensive then, so I admitted I didn't feel we could afford it. He went to downtown New Orleans to search out a seller. Apparently his mother was so moved by this story when he asked her advice in where to go, that she bought me the largest bottle I have seen as my Christmas gift. I'm not sure why prices have dropped, but the only difference I notice is it doesn't last as long. When I can find the perfume I buy it. Otherwise I buy the parfum and wear more of it. My grandsons grew up loving it, my granddaughter has insisted on a splash after her tub since she could ask. She has her own bottle now nd is probably only li'l girl in New Orleans that does. I cracked up when she insisted her mother buy perfume instead of eau de toilette. The heart knows.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 2/12/2021
By
From New Orleans
5
I buy this perfume again and again and have done for years
I've used First for years and I love it. I keep it for weekend outings as I think it deserves that respect.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 2/9/2021
By
From Manchester UK
5
Great fragrance which I would buy again.
I have a number of fragrances I use regularly and this is one. A strong fragrance which always gets complementary comments. A classic fragrance.
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 1/23/2021
By
From Staffordshire UK
5
Again ,yes . Again and again I can't guarantee !!
I gave it as a gift . It is much appreciated
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 1/3/2021
By
From Summerland BC Canada
5
Van Cleef is the best
I've used First many times and just love the ssmell
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 12/25/2020
By
From Isle of Wight. U.K.
5
Delicate
One of my favorites!
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
Was this review helpful to you?
Submitted 12/24/2020
By
From Missouri
Customers Who Bought This Item Also Bought
Details and Care for First
First by Van Cleef & Arpels is a timeless classic that put the iconic French jeweler on the fragrance map when it debuted in 1976. As the very first perfume ever released by Van Cleef & Arpels, First holds a legendary status in the world of fine fragrance. Crafted by the celebrated perfumer Jean-Claude Ellena, this women's perfume was designed to embody the elegance, refinement, and opulence that the Van Cleef & Arpels name has always represented. Even the bottle is a work of art - its octagonal silhouette is inspired by the shape of a luxury watch face, making it as much a display piece as it is a fragrance. Decades after its launch, First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels continues to captivate new generations of fragrance lovers who appreciate the artistry of a truly classic floral aldehyde scent.
First Perfume is a rich, powdery, and sophisticated floral aldehyde fragrance that opens with a sparkling burst of aldehydes, bergamot, neroli, lemon, and peach - an effervescent and luminous introduction that sets a glamorous tone from the very first spritz. The heart matures into a dense bouquet of rose, jasmine, iris, ylang-ylang, lily of the valley, and daffodil which reflects the full and vibrant floral garden that is in its peak flowering. The fragrance concludes with the warm and sexual base notes of sandalwood, vetiver, oakmoss, musk, amber, and civet that hold the whole composition together, bringing additional weight and time. The best occasion to wear First by Van Cleef & Arpels is in the evening and at special events; you can consider it a signature for the woman who loves the classical style and the effect of a really iconic perfume.
Fragrance Family:
Floral, Aldehyde
Scent Notes:
Top Notes: Aldehydes, Bergamot, Neroli, Lemon, Peach
Middle Notes: Rose, Jasmine, Iris, Ylang-Ylang, Lily of the Valley, Narcissus
Base Notes: Sandalwood, Vetiver, Oakmoss, Musk, Amber, Civet
Questions And Answers
How does First by Van Cleef & Arpels smell?
First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels is a glamorous and powdery floral aldehyde fragrance. It starts with a lively, shimmering gas emission coming from the aldehydes, bergamot, lemon, and peach, then turns into a soft, warm, romantic heart of rose, jasmine, iris, and lily of the valley. The dry down captivates with its warmth, earthiness, and sensuality where musk, vetiver, oakmoss, and sandalwood end the melody pleasantly.
What kind of fragrance is First by Van Cleef & Arpels?
First by Van Cleef & Arpels is a classic floral aldehyde fragrance. Aldehyde perfumes are typically characterized by their soapy, effervescent, and slightly waxy scent, which gives floral notes a radiant twist. This manner was typical in the middle of the last century and is still adored by those who are fans of the antique, the more complicated it gets.
Where should First Perfume be applied?
To maximize the longevity of First by Van Cleef & Arpels, spray onto the major pulse points - behind the ears, at the base of the neck, on the wrists, inside the elbows, and behind the knees. It should be sprayed onto the main pulse points which are behind the ears, at the base of the neck, on the wrists, inside the elbows, and behind the knees. These are the places where the warmth is generated the most which, in turn, helps you to activate and project the perfume for long hours throughout the day or night.
How long does First by Van Cleef & Arpels last?
First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels is known for its impressive longevity, particularly in its eau de parfum concentration. Fans of the perfume can normally look at the duration for the forest to stay In the air the fragrance for about six to eight hours. It is such base notes of orchid, amber, resin that will probably hold on to the skin for a long time even after.
Is First by Van Cleef & Arpels for men or women?
First by Van Cleef & Arpels is marketed as a women's perfume and leans decidedly feminine with its lush floral heart and powdery aldehyde character. The scent predominately conforms to feminine style and has an abundance of its floral heart and powdery aldehyde character. However, it is important to point out that fragrance is an individual thing, and anyone who loves deep, classic floral fragrances should use it no matter what their gender is.
What season is best for wearing First Perfume?
First by Van Cleef & Arpels shines most brilliantly during the cooler months - fall and winter are ideal seasons for this rich, warm, and opulent fragrance. Fall and winter are the very best seasons for this rich scent since it has a depth that easily follows you around the place. Although the fragrance performs well in the evening of formal events, its classic design makes it suitable for all seasons.
What fragrances smell similar to First by Van Cleef & Arpels?
Those who love First Perfume by Van Cleef & Arpels may also enjoy other classic floral aldehyde fragrances such as Chanel No. 5, Arpege by Lanvin, or White Linen by Estee Lauder. Each one of these fragrances has the charcteristic light floral powdery elegance which was the foundation of luxury perfumery in the later half of the 20th century.
Love this n always! For decades im 62 bn using it since 22y