Rediscovering Crabtree & Evelyn's Iconic Citron Collection

As we enter a new era of self-care and luxury in personal hygiene products, it’s fascinating to look back at the brands that have shaped our preferences over the years. One name that has consistently stood out is Crabtree & Evelyn. Founded in 1972, the brand is noted for its commitment to quality and the creation of sensory experiences through its fragrances and bath products. Among their offerings, the Citron line holds a special place in the hearts of many enthusiasts. This article will explore the nostalgia surrounding Crabtree & Evelyn's Citron line, evaluate the new formulations, and assess how they stack up against the much-beloved original.

Rediscovering Crabtree & Evelyn

Crabtree & Evelyn has undergone substantial changes over the years, yet its passion for crafting scents that encapsulate life's simple pleasures has remained consistent. This is highlighted in their recent revival of the Citron line, which many former fans of the brand have eagerly awaited.

A Nostalgic Journey

For long-time users, the original Citron range was a radiant burst of freshness, with a distinctive blend of grapefruit, mandarin, and lemon that was particularly invigorating. This scent was not just a fragrance but a mood-lifter that could energize even the most sluggish mornings. However, when the brand discontinued this line, many loyal customers, like myself, resorted to eBay and stockpiling products, hoping to savor the joy of the original scent for as long as possible.

The Current Citron Collection

In recent years, as Crabtree & Evelyn began to re-establish itself in the market, the question arose: how closely does the new Citron range resemble the beloved original? The answer, quite frankly, is that it does not. The 2021 version of Citron offers a warmer, more harmonious olfactory experience, diverging from the sharp zestiness that characterized its predecessor. With new notes that include refreshing citron lemon, invigorating lemon rind, and fragrant lemon leaf, the scent leans toward a deeper, more mellow profile. The addition of sweet honey, juniper, cypress, and a touch of peppery coriander seed adds an intriguing complexity that sets it apart. While the fragrance is more lemony, it lacks the tangy burst that many may remember, transitioning to a warm woody musk in the dry-down phase.

Product Review: A Closer Look

After testing several products from the new Citron line—including the bar of soap, body scrub, and body soufflé—my impressions are consistently positive. The quality and craftsmanship exhibit a clear return to form, reminiscent of the golden days of Crabtree & Evelyn.

Citron Bar Soap

The $10 bar of soap is a standout product for several reasons. The texture is luxurious, almost nostalgic, bringing back memories of glycerin soaps from my childhood. Remarkably gentle on winter-dry skin, this bar does not strip moisture while cleansing, making it an excellent everyday choice. The combination of scent and texture elevates the experience, coaxing you into a state of relaxation, reminiscent of those serene indulgent baths from years gone by.

Citron Body Scrub

Priced at $22, the Citron Body Scrub showcases a unique creaminess paired with a well-balanced grain structure. The larger grains effectively exfoliate without feeling harsh, although I would have preferred slightly smaller particles for that perfect comforting experience. It effectively revitalizes the skin, making it a fantastic choice for winter when skin tends to lose its natural luster.

Citron Body Soufflé

My favorite among the three products tested is the Citron Body Soufflé. Rich, buttery, and wonderfully emollient, this cream immediately melts into the skin, offering prolonged relief from dryness. While the scent doesn’t linger as much as I would like, the texture makes the use of this product a true delight.

Comparative Notes on Other Citrus Lines

When discussing scents, comparisons are inevitable. The question arises: how does this new Citron range compare with other popular citrus-based lines, such as the discontinued Honey & Lemon by L'Occitane? The truth is that they cater to different olfactory palettes. While the L'Occitane offering leaned heavily musky and laden with honey, the new Crabtree & Evelyn distinguishes itself with a more zesty profile that is less predictable and far from overly sweet.

Where to Find Crabtree & Evelyn's Citron Collection

For those interested in experiencing this revitalized collection firsthand, the Crabtree & Evelyn Citron Body Collection is readily available online at their official website and in retail outlets like local malls. Taking the time to explore the new offerings, you may find a fresh scent that resonates with you, much like the iconic original did for many.

Customer Testimonials: Voices from the Community

The revitalized Citron collection has resonated with new and returning customers alike. One user expressed her happiness after discovering the range, especially praising the body soufflé for its effectiveness in suppleness and the elimination of dry patches. The positive feedback is reminiscent of the sentiment that loyal consumers had for the original products, showcasing that the new collection is capturing hearts once again.

Conclusion

The evolution of Crabtree & Evelyn has led us to a wonderfully modernized range that feels both fresh and familiar. Although the new Citron collection may not be an exact replica of the beloved original, it undoubtedly offers a sophisticated alternative that is worth trying. With quality textures and enticing scents, Crabtree & Evelyn is undoubtedly back on the map, and it opens the door for rediscovering long-lost favorites or even creating new ones.