Sicily

The Verdict

Dolce&Gabbana Sicily is one of those fragrances that provokes strong reactions in both directions. Released in 2003 and composed by Nathalie Lorson, this floral aldehyde was designed to channel the passionate spirit of the Mediterranean island, and for some it succeeds brilliantly while others find it falls flat. With an overall rating of 7.3 out of 10, the numbers reflect this division.

The fragrance was discontinued, though D&G released a Sicily Re-Edition 2003 in 2025, suggesting the house recognized the original's cult following. For those who loved it, Sicily represented a one-of-a-kind scent that defied easy categorization.

What It Smells Like

The opening is immediately distinctive, with a generous dose of aldehydes framing bright bergamot, soft honeysuckle, creamy banana, and luminous orange blossom. The banana note is the most talked-about element: reviewers describe a creamy, tropical quality that some find intoxicating and others find disconcerting. Combined with the aldehydes, it creates an effect that one community member compared to creamy suntan lotion on warm skin on the beach.

The heart develops into a fuller floral bouquet of jasmine, rose, hyacinth, and hibiscus, with nutmeg adding a warm spicy dimension. These classical florals are filtered through the aldehydic haze that gives Sicily its vintage character, connecting it to the grand tradition of aldehydic florals while adding Mediterranean warmth.

The base of sandalwood, musk, and heliotrope settles into what many describe as a warm, sun-kissed skin scent. The overall effect divides opinion: fans find it exotic and undeniably attractive, while critics describe powdery banana soap with a mass of aldehydic waxy warmth.

When to Wear It

Sicily is a warm-weather fragrance through and through. Its summery, soapy-creamy character works best during spring and summer, particularly for evening outings, beach vacations, and Mediterranean-inspired occasions. The warmth and sunshine built into its DNA make it feel perfectly at home during the hotter months.

It can work for daytime wear as well, though the aldehyde content gives it enough presence to carry into evening settings.

Longevity & Projection

Performance is one area where Sicily earns consistent praise. With longevity rated at 7.9 out of 10 and sillage at 7.5 out of 10, it outperforms many of its contemporaries. One reviewer reported an impressive fifteen hours of wear time on skin. The fragrance lingers on clothes for even longer, with multiple community members noting they could still detect it on fabrics the following day.

Projection is moderate, making it present without being aggressive, which suits its character as a sensual rather than commanding fragrance.

The Community Says

Opinions on Sicily are genuinely divided. Fans are passionate in their defense, with one typical comment being that Sicily is a lovely fragrance, a one-of-a-kind scent and they cannot understand why it was discontinued. The exotic, honeysuckle-banana-frangipani combination earns particular praise from those who appreciate its unconventional approach.

Detractors are equally vocal. The most common criticism centers on the soapy quality that the aldehydes produce, with some finding it reminiscent of generic cleansers rather than Mediterranean sunshine. The banana note also divides opinion sharply, with some finding it sophisticated and others finding it out of place.

Who Should Buy This

Sicily is for the adventurous fragrance wearer who appreciates aldehydic compositions and is not afraid of unusual note combinations. If you enjoy vintage-style florals with modern warmth, and if the idea of a banana-touched, sun-drenched aldehydic fragrance intrigues rather than alarms you, this could become a cherished favorite.

Those who prefer clean, modern minimalism or who find aldehydes soapy should approach with caution. A sample before committing is strongly advised given the polarizing nature of this composition.

The Bottom Line

Dolce&Gabbana Sicily is a fragrance that dares to be different, combining Mediterranean warmth with classic aldehydic glamour in a way that captivates some and confounds others. Its excellent performance and unique character have earned it a devoted following, even if it never achieved the broad appeal of the house's other releases.