Prada is an Italian design house which has been around for decades and has made a huge impact within the world of fashion. It features a really great menswear line but also has some signature scents for guys up its sleeves as well. For this post, I want to explore eight scents from Prada which I consider to be their best that they have released thus far.
Key Takeaways
Here is a quick list for those in a hurry. I go into much more detail on each of these and the others below.
Prada Luna Rossa SPORT Eau de Toilette Spray 3.4 oz– Luna Rossa Sport is a simple fragrance and is a flanker of the original Luna Rossa, that is listed towards the bottom of the page. While it is a simple and fairly linear wear, Sport, is super fresh and smells really great.
It opens up with a blend of vanilla and tonka bean, which creates a sort of powdery aromatic aroma, with sweetness provided in part by a nice juniper berry note.
Beyond that, ginger adds a lightly fresh spice, and there is the lavender note that is ubiquitous in the Luna Rossa series. Refreshing and crisp.
This one stays pretty tonka and vanilla heavy, with lavender and that juniper note flanking it. Sometimes, this is my absolute favorite Prada scent to wear, but then I get tired of it. It’s great, but not something I want to wear all of the time. I reviewed it here.
It has the powdery iris note of the original, amber, and a healthy dose of leather, in the opening.
Later on, there is a subtle base of patchouli and sandalwood, which add to the overall enjoyment and aren’t a distraction. The dry down is mainly iris and tonka bean, with the leather and amber, playing support roles.
It’s super rich and fits beautifully in the colder weather of autumn and winter. I think that Intense is the best of the L’Homme line from this brand. L’Homme Intense Review
Top Prada Olfactories Les Mirages
Soleil au Zenith– I also liked Dark Light from this series (that’s more vanilla and amber). However, Soleil au Zenith is also an amazing perfume from this more expensive Prada line (these are going to run around $300).
Zenith does open up much closer to a traditional ladies’ fragrance, versus being purely unisex. Ylang-ylang and peach are the top notes, but will ultimately give way to is deep and rich base of ingredients.
The peach gets wrapped up with vanilla and sandalwood. You have spices including cumin, cinnamon, and nutmeg becoming more prominent as it wears on. It becomes a softer warmer spice with powdery flourishes. To me, the ylang-ylang all but disappears.
Floral Unisex Perfume
Prada Amber Pour Homme by Prada for Men – 3.4 oz EDT Spray -This one is clean and soapy with bits of leather and lavender. A good fresh scent with solid performance. Honestly, it’s my least favorite on the list, personally.
I know a lot of people have said that this is among the absolute best, so, I include it for the sake of giving it a fair shake.
It does smell good, but it gets way too floral and soapy. for my taste. Has more of a unisex vibe, but it is a well put together, and classy scent overall. Amber Pour Homme is a mature or professional fragrance. You’re going to have to dig amber-laden floral scents.
Plus, the citrus is only the main attraction at first. Then, there is an emergence of mint and lavender. What a great little scent. It is a bright citrus aroma with a cool demeanor thanks to the spearmint and calming lavender note.
The dry down does have a slight powdery/soapy feel, but it isn’t that much, and way less than what is in some of the others. This is super fresh and my main alternative to wearing Luna Rossa Sport, from the Prada line. The spearmint is utterly perfect. Luna Rossa Full Review
Another High End Option
Cargo de Nuit– A lot of the Olfactories line of scents, get way too girly and not truly something that would be unisex. Cargo goes a bit more masculine with how it comes across, it smells great, and performs like a beast.
Again, this is one you can expect to spend $300 for. You’ll also have to source it from Prada, most likely. Saks has it sometimes or eBay.
Ambrette and tonka bean are the main attraction here, after an opening of aldehydes and musk. A very nice mix of sweet and spicy with a smooth muskiness to it. Prada says that, “Inspired by the mystery of a night voyage in the ocean”…Sure, why not? Not really what it makes me think of.
It dries down woodier, with a creaminess, and a cozy warmth. Cargo de Nuit isn’t going to be one that everyone will want, but is a great option for a more niche collector.
It opens up with the wood, neroli, and iris notes. So, yes, this falls in the masculine floral category of colognes.
L’Homme L’eau is a very clean sort of scent, with a heightened baby powder kind of smell, when compared with the original. It starts off with strong sillage, but mellows out over time, and hangs in the air.
This is the kind of scent that you can wear formally or to the office, since it is inoffensive, and you get decent performance. L’Homme Eau Review
This one opens up with citron, bergamot, and ginger. It is very fresh and captivating. Yes, it has that usual lavender from the Luna Rossa line, but this one reminds me of the old Dior Homme Sport just swapping the iris for lavender.
Eau Sport quickly became one of my favorite Prada scents and a very enjoyable one for the summer. Not too complex, with some light amber and cedar in the base. However, it smells great and give a nice performance. Luna Ross Eau Sport Review
Honorable Mentions
Luna Rossa Black– Black was probably the most unknown fragrance from the Luna Rossa line. Though, that’s changed recently. Actually, it’s got lots of overlap with Cargo de Nuit…just not the same level of scent.
It’s different, really good, and has fantastic performance. Pretty simple presentation, as well.
My main problem with this fragrance, is with how it opens. Patchouli, bergamot, angelica…it doesn’t come together all that wonderfully. However, Luna Rossa Black surprised me during the dry down. Amber and tonka bean combine to make it sweet, smooth, and warm.
Is it incredible? No, but I love the use of that familiar Prada amber note, and tonka bean is among my favorite note. If you can get a good price, it’s a darker sweet scent for the winter.
Luna Rossa Carbon– I like wearing Carbon occasionally. It often gets compared to Dior Sauvage EDT, but, I think that this Prada version is better.
It opens up with a strong bergamot, ambroxan, pepper, and lavender. The lavender will really come into its own later, and take over the scent. It has good longevity and sillage.
Not my favorite scent, but I thought that I’d list it here, as another option. It’s certainly popular and has its fans.
Dior’s Sauvage EDT became one of the most popular, if not the most popular, men’s fragrance over the past five or so years. It is amazing how near ubiquitous, that this scent has become. Once a cologne has achieved such popularity, it will no doubt spawn other fragrances which smell similar or very comparable.
In this post, I am going to provide ten options for guys who want a scent which is close to Sauvage by Christian Dior, whether you want Sauvage EDT, Elixir, or EDP like versions.
Key Takeaways:
I go into further detail about all of the fragrances below. But, here’s a quick list for those in a hurry.
Prada Luna Rossa CARBON for Men Eau de Toilette Spray, 3.4 ounce– Aside, from Sauvage EDP listed below, Luna Rossa Carbon is the closest smelling men’s fragrance to Dior Sauvage at any price. In fact, it is one which I actually prefer to the Dior fragrance. They share the bergamot, ambroxan, lavender, and pepper notes.
Carbon is smoother, less spicy with the pepper, but with more lavender. Carbon also has a slight metallic tinge, that Sauvage does not. I’ve compared these scents: here. Carbon has good performance and is a damn near clone of Sauvage, at times.
I recently wore both scents on back to back days. Honestly, my experience with Carbon was so much more enjoyable. Plus, I can get 7-11 hours of nice wear from it. I’m not always in the mood for a lavender fragrance, but I cannot really say that I’m ever going to choose Sauvage EDT against this Prada cologne. Luna Rossa Carbon Review
The First Inspiration
Aromatic Star Anise by Dossier– Dossier is a brand that has become well-known for their fragrances which smell a great deal like popular designer perfumes. Aromatic Star Anise is their impression of Dior Sauvage.
With these, you don’t get a 100% accuracy, but to say that it is above 90% of the same smell wouldn’t be outrageous. The same citrus, a focus one spicy star anise note (not the same Sichuan pepper, but a pepper note is there too), lavender, and the rest of the ingredients.
All of that for the current price (as of writing) of $29. Beyond that, you can try it out and send the bottle back, if it doesn’t meet expectations. This is one from Dossier, I haven’t personally tried, but other options have been quite good.
Inspired 2
Selvaggio by Fragrenza– Fragrenza is another brand with cheaper fragrance impressions of expensive designer scents. It’s not too well known, as of yet, but I was impressed by the batch of samples that I bought from the company.
The perfumes really came close to what they were trying to mimic, not exact dupes, just very close and had outstanding performance. Also, you don’t have to buy a full bottle, you can buy a smaller sample to see if you’d like to go ahead with committing to the larger size bottle.
Selvaggio is the company’s Sauvage inspired cologne. It has the same basic structure as our target, including the citrus and Sichuan pepper start. The full bottle currently goes for $39, which is a really low barrier to entry in comparison to Dior.
Inspiration of All Sauvage
Savage Elixir by The Dua Brand– If you’re looking for something very close to Sauvage EDT, the Dua Brand has you covered. (Update:It looks like this one isn’t currently available, so, I linked tothe Elxir version. Not sure if it’ll come back, so you might want to check when you see thispage). However, it goes further than Dossier and Fragrenza, because it also has its inspired versions of Sauvage Elixir, Sauvage EDP, and blends with other famous colognes.
It sort of depends what’s in stock at the time, but they’re usually really good a re-upping the popular fragrances. I haven’t had a bad experience with any of the inspired perfumes that I’ve bought from them in the past. Every one has been pretty much what you get with the designer brand, just sometimes a bit more linear and not the same exact depth.
But, if you want something very similar to Elixir, EDP, or EDT you can try out the options from Dua.
Better Sauvage Option
Sauvage by Dior Eau de Parfum Spray 60ml– The eau de parfum version of Sauvage, is obviously going to smell very much like the EDT original. However, this one is arranged differently and smells better, in my opinion. This would be my first option, if I wanted a Sauvage fragrance.
The ambroxan note is stronger here from the start and takes the sharpness of the bergamot and Sichuan pepper away. It also pairs a sweet and smoky vanilla note with the lavender and ambroxan, which gives it a nice distinction. Sauvage EDP also has great sillage and lasts for over 10 hours.
Yeah, it’s a flanker of Sauvage, but it still gives you enough of that original experience while being better in every regard. I’d also go with the Parfum version, before the EDT. Sauvage EDP Review
In the Same Vein
VERSACE Dylan Blue Pour Homme Eau De Toilette Spray Box Sealed, 6.7 Ounce– Dylan Blue is a close relative of Sauvage, as an aroma. This Versace starts off with a similar citrus pairing of bergamot and grapefruit, ambroxan, and pepper. However, Dylan Blue also has a slight aquatic element to it, and a very prominent fig note.
If Dylan Blue, could have retained much of the opening act, with that fig note…I would be a much bigger fan. I like it, but it’s not a love. In most cases, I think I’d wear this before Sauvage EDT, but it’s more of a tossup.
I wasn’t really sold on this cologne, when I first tried it out. However, I came around to liking the opening hour or two, the more I wore it. I’m still not completely impressed by the second act, nor the fairly standard performance, but it is a very good scent overall. Dylan Blue Review
Ventana has a spicy quality to it, but definitely not the same level of pepper intensity as our comparison.
This Armaf has a fruitier open with a nice amount of lavender. You get grapefruit and a light mandarin, with woody notes, and a weaker amber. Ventana isn’t as much of a sillage beast, as what we’re trying to replace, but it does have very good performance. Plus, after the first hour it smells very very close to Sauvage, all for under $30.
Overall, Ventana is a more mellow and understated scent than the EDT version of Sauvage. It provides you a very good substitute for our target, at this price level, while still having enough of a personality to remain a distinct scent.
The citrus opening is similar to, but not exactly the same as Sauvage. More of a pure lemon than bergamot. Beyond that, the spices here aren’t as intense as the Sichuan pepper note. It is fresher and has less of a warmth to it.
Nonetheless, for the price The Pride by Armaf is surprisingly deep and has a bit of its own personality versus just being another comparison of the best seller.
However, it’s also not terrible like you might expect. Actually, it isn’t as sharp with its citrus notes, and doesn’t have that power kick from Sichuan pepper. It does still have plenty of spice, just in a different variety. Mainly, cardamom.
This La Rive cologne is fresh and has a cleaner floral/soapier aroma than does the more expensive designer scent. Geranium, lavender, and vetiver notes will do that. The overlap is going to mostly be in the lavender and citrus notes, add spices/freshness and you’ve got something pretty close.
Less Citrus, Fresh, and Surprisingly Good
Ajmal Kuro for Men Eau de Parfum Spray, 3 Ounce– I became aware of Ajmal as a brand, after finding some of their women’s releases that also were close comparable aromas of famous perfumes. Does this one replicate Sauvage? Ehh, a lot of the DNA is there, but not entirely to my nose.
The citrus notes are brought way down in comparison. It’s like Sauvage stripped of much of its citrus, more focused on freshness (geranium is pretty strong here), woodier, but with a nice lavender (actually much like Luna Rossa Carbon).
Performance is solid for around 6 hours and it only runs about $25 currently. Kuro is worth a shot.
A Bluer Parfum
Faris by Kajal– This isn’t a cheaper alternative. In fact, it can be pricier than Sauvage. However, it is a great alternative and more so favors Sauvage Parfum, while still doing its own thing.
This still has a spiciness to it with a clove, but it doesn’t come across the same as the Sichuan pepper in Sauvage. Personally, I like the change. There’s a deeper lavender and a freshness coming from the top juniper note.
More floral at times, but less of the citrus and not an explosion of lavender for the entire wear. Great performance too. Not exactly like Sauvage, it still has its own personality, but it covers much of the same ground in a great way.
BR 540 is a very expensive, but also very popular fragrance from Francis Kurkdjian. In this post, I want to present some Baccarat Rouge 540 dupe alternatives for cheaper and other perfumes which have a similar style, but are ultimately different.
The good news is that there are plenty of options that can smell similar what you get with BR 540.
I am consistently updating this page, as I find more suitable perfumes that bear resemblance to BR 540…so, check back for new ones.
Key Takeaways
I go into full detail on all the perfumes down further on the page. However, if you’re in a hurry, here’s some highlights.
Which Perfumes Smell Similar to Baccarat Rouge 540?
For the first part of the list, I am going to cover the fragrances which are ‘inspired by’ Baccarat Rouge 540 directly. The next section, will be those scents that are similar in style, but ultimately their own thing.
The Casino Scent
Casino Royale by Dua Fragrances– So, the Dua Brand specializes in creating inspired perfumes or similar smelling fragrances. Casino Royale is their version of BR 540.
But, they also have other perfumes that combine elements of BR 540 and Extrait, with notes of other perfumes to create a newer scent all together. So, it’s worth checking out these, since they sell at a reasonable price. None are super amazing, but they do a nice job.
Is it very similar to Baccarat? It’s certainly close, but the differences are noticeable, if one is paying attention. Though, that’s to be expected with the price difference.
To my nose, it isn’t as sweet or smooth, and has a larger floral presence. Jasmine and marigold. Also, has hints of the Extrait version of BR 540, it kind of leans that way.
Ambery Option
Ambery Saffron by Dossier– Another good option for recreating the BR 540 aroma. This one does use some different notes, but the result actually comes out great.
Plum and orange blossom, are the main differences here. Again though, it still comes out nearly identical to the Kurkdjian scent. This one is a bit lighter with the sillage, yet still lasts for a long time on the skin.
Perhaps a bit sweeter, like the Dua isn’t as sweet, and the one below is more metallic. It kind of comes down to preference, as these three are so close in terms of execution.
The Popular Zara Smell a Like
Red Temptation by Zara– The similarities of Red Temptation to Baccarat made it a massive hit on social media posts and also caused it to be sold out for a long time. However, as of this update, this perfume is back and stock and offers a very similar fragrance at around $40.
This doesn’t have the same level of sweetness as BR 540, to me. The orange note up top is sharp and its power in the early stages is one of the main distinctions here. It’s smooth, fresh, and has a good deal of ambroxan in the middle act. That’s when it’s most similar.
The performance here is solid. The sillage for the first hour can pack a punch, but it does settle, into a more moderate wear. Decent longevity, not insane like BR. Also, a woodsy finish in the base notes.
Caramelle Smell
Caramelle Rosse by Fragrenza– This is another inspired near dupe perfume that I bought recently. This is a good option. However, I will say that the saffron here is a bit louder than the sample vial of the actual 540 that I have. Also, an almond note.
So, this does seem to have more of a metallic finish on my skin, than some of the others. Nothing too outlandish, some of you might even prefer this Fragrenza version, but just putting it out there.
The performance is good. I purchased other samples of their designer inspired perfumes and all of them were well done. So, order a sample lot, if you’re interested in this one.
Crystals
Crystal by ALT Fragrances– Another hyper-popular option in the ‘designer inspired’ category of related scents. Crystal really tries and mostly succeeds at doing its best Baccarat impression.
They’ve had many other good releases of this sort and Crystal continues that tradition. Like the others, there are slight variations. To me, this has a muskier take on this note structure, but everything else seems in balance.
The sillage is lighter and the performance isn’t to the same degree. Still quite good, but you’re also purchasing the ALT perfume for a fraction of the price, so some points will have to be given up.
Sweven 540
Sweven by Oakcha– Sweven is Oakcha’s inspired by version of Baccarat Rouge 540. This is a brand that I’ve only recently stumbled upon, so, I don’t have any experience with any of their fragrances as of yet.
But, it is highly popular and well reviewed for those of you who want yet another BR 540-esque perfume to test out. The pricing is about in line with many of the other options on this part of the list.
Another Under $30
Ana Abiyedh Rouge by Lattafa- Rouge is another cheapie that does an impression of BR. The opening act, is admittedly a bit of a synthetic mess. It has that dry, plasticky, and alcohol aroma upon first spraying…but that’ll clear.
This has the saffron and a bitter almond note up top, that will be better after a few minutes. Yes, this does have that 540-like smell, almost like Ajmal’s Aristocrat (listed earlier above), in how it comes across. Maybe, a bit more sugary sweet in the middle versus earlier on.
The dry down does get muskier than BR. Less woods and the ambergris isn’t to the same quality. But, for $25 or so, this is solid.
The Type of Scent
Rouge 540 Type for Women– I haven’t tested this one out as of yet. However, The Fragrance Shop usually does a pretty good job at matching much of the same essence as the perfumes they’re trying to recreate.
I’ve tried a few of their men’s Chanel fragrance versions and they at least get the opening notes correct. The fragrances don’t generally have the same depth as the original and some of the base notes, really don’t come through in the perfume oil. I figured that I’d include this as another potential option, for those who want to give it a try.
Perfumes with a Similar Style (Not Baccarat Rouge 540 Dupes)
Now, we can get to the part of the list of perfumes that don’t try to exactly mimic the aroma of Baccarat, but have enough overlap to be of interest to fans of the perfume. Or those, who don’t like certain aspects of our target fragrance.
The Other Kurkdjian Perfume
Burberry Her Eau De Parfum Spray – Burberry Her is a fragrance designed by Francis Kurkdjian that bears a lot of resemblance to his earlier Baccarat Rouge fragrance.
They aren’t however exactly the same and Burberry Her does indeed have a distinct aroma from our target. Strawberry, raspberry, and citrus notes gives this one an overall sweeter profile.
The latter stages aren’t as sweet, but this is a lighter and summery sort of perfume when compared to Baccarat. Actually, it’s pretty close to Cloud by Ariana Grande (my comparison post: Her vs. Cloud). Read my Full Burberry Her Review
A Cheaper Similar Aroma
Ajmal Aristocrat, 2.5 Oz– Aristocrat is another sweeter option that does share the jasmine and saffron notes found in Baccarat Rouge. Along with, amber and a musky dry down.
The citrus notes are a difference in the earlier stages, along with a heavy emphasis on sugar, that does settle down. Then, you will get muskier and drier notes, but also a big dose of that saffron note.
All in all, it is a close rendition at a cheaper price, but with a greater cotton candy-like aroma through much of the wear.
The Untold Armaf
Club de Nuit Untold– Not the cheapest option on the list, but still does save some money versus an actual bottle of BR 540. However, Club de Nuit Untold provides a pretty strong and well-performing resemblance to what we’re looking for.
Heavier on the amber notes, resin, and saffron this can be a good alternative for those who don’t want as much jasmine in the mix. Untold kind of skirts the line between Baccarat and the Extrait version of that perfume.
Strong and long-lasting, but also has the softer and sweeter elements, paired with the resinous notes. Interesting. Not exactly the same, but the aroma will be very familiar.
A Taste of New York
Greenwich Village by Bond No. 9– This is another high end designer fragrance, much like our target. It’s not an exactly the same though, and very much retains its own style and charm. But, the similar style makes Greenwich Village a perfume to check out for Baccarat lovers.
Up top you will get much more fruitiness, almost a tropical sort of vibe. Mandarin orange and lychee, with a great touch of cassis. That juiciness is met with the freshness of waterlily and some light jasmine touches.
The dry down gets warmer with praline, vanilla, and musk. This has a sweeter, lighter, fruitier, and fresher aroma versus the Kurkdjian creation. The latter stages give you a nice creamy gourmand perfume.
Greenwich Village is a beautiful scent, which some may actually prefer to our target. Probably the most similar in the start. The sillage and projection isn’t as powerful, which again, you may well prefer.
Massive Citrusy Silllage
Apres l’Amour by Thomas Kosmala– Similarities definitely abound with this and BR 540, but they are ultimately different enough to be appreciated separately.
Apres l’Amour is a massive scent, that goes heavy on the amber notes, and has a very citrus laden top. It has the sweeter elements of Baccarat, but can also have a lot more of the plastic/dentist office smell, that some people report with our target fragrance.
Kind of overpriced for what it is. I mean, the performance itself is long-lasting and beast mode. But, the actual smell isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Not a perfume that is trying to be a one to one match of BR 540 and can be polarizing.
More Floral, Patchouli
Stramonio by V Canto– Stramonio is another one that gets talked about with Baccarat. This is not an exact copy, but has similar traits to the Kurkdjian perfume.
The ambergris, saffron, and woody aspects are where this one shares plenty of overlap. Initially, though the saffron will be paired not only with the similar jasmine, but with notes like carnation and orchid.
Also, this one does seem to have a greater patchouli influence. Stramonio isn’t nearly as sweet as our target and the performance isn’t as good. Lighter and less longevity.
Sol de Janeiro
Cheirosa 68 Body Spray– This is kind of an odd one, that somehow has a resemblance to BR 540 and Burberry Her, but not entirely…and also is a body spray. So, performance isn’t going to be great with this one.
BUT, it still is rather nice, especially for the price point. It gives you a sweetness that is akin to Burberry Her, but also more tropical with dragon fruit and litchi leading the way.
While also, giving you a musky/aquatic base to work from that can also have that metallic-like aroma that you sometimes pick up with BR 540.
Again, kind of weird how they’re similar. Still, not a complete 1 to 1 smell by any means, and more like it has flashes of being like the MFK perfume. You’re just going to need to be a fan of candy-like levels of sweetness, because that’s what this can bring.
The Ariana Option
R.E.M. by Ariana Grande– Alright, Cloud by Ariana Grandeshares more in common with Baccarat Rouge 540…but R.E.M. is the better perfume (versus Cloud) and has plenty of similarities.
It’s sweet, but more mature than the other fragrances that have been released by the singer. R.E.M. gives you a lot of what Cloud has to offer, but adding fig and lavender to make it stand on its own merit.
R.E.M. has a nice depth with its sweetness, creamy tonka bean and later woodsy/lavender base. BR 540 is definitely floating around in the DNA, but don’t expect an exact match, just a better version of the closer smell alike.
Super Cheap Alternative Fragrance
Dream Moon by Pacifica– As of now, this seems to be an exclusive to Target stores (update: Ulta and Amazon have it now also), which is where I got to experience this one. The opening is very much like what you get from Baccarat Rouge, but it dries down like a more cotton candy-like Cloud.
You get rose, patchouli, and a fairly decent example of sandalwood for this price point. It also has other sweeter notes, giving it that vibe, but I haven’t seen what the exact listing of these notes are.
Here the notes are listed as pink rose, patchouli, and sandalwood. What else it has beyond that, I haven’t been able to track down. But there has to be some sweeter notes in here. I definitely get plenty of sandalwood and patchouli.
Dream Moon gives you a creamy sweet and patchouli gourmand aroma, that has a strong resemblance to what we want with BR 540. Also, for around $20, it delivers a nice performance to boot.
More Floral, Similar Aroma
Sunset Riot by Allsaints– There is a ton of overlap between this Allsaints release and BR 540, but Sunset Riot does have a pronounced orange blossom note that comes through for the duration. It’s a lighter wear than the Francis Kurkdjian, as well.
Sunset Riot gives you a great citrus vibe up top, along with the amber, and a kick from the pink pepper lurking underneath.
A bit woody, with those great floral notes led by the orange blossom. It is a very attractive, not overly sweet, and while it does have some thickness to its body; Sunset Riot doesn’t have much of a resinous feel, despite the amber.
Great option. Not cheap, but more affordable than our target. Can be tougher to find.
The opening act is a blend of sweetness and floral notes, led by saffron. The saffron adds a fresh and almost leathery quality to the mix.
Manege has a nice amount of depth and gets sweeter, as it moves into the heart of the composition. That’s where you’ll get a greater amount of cotton candy and caramel. It’s not a thick or heavy sillaged scent and the sweetness is quite wearable.
Doesn’t have the same power of 540, it’s less woody, but otherwise a darn good smelling scent with similarities to the Maison Francis Kurkdjian perfume.
In the Stars can be more appealing for some folks, because it doesn’t have the lavender note that the Ariana Grande scent has. It has a nice woody dry down period, where it’s initial sweetness starts to give it more of the 540 character that we’re looking for.
In the Stars is light, fresh, sweet, and actually gives a nice performance for a Bath and Body Works fragrance. Definitely worth a try to not break the bank.
Not the Same, Close Style
Instant Crush by Mancera– The heavy use of amber, saffron, and wood often draw comparisons between this and the MFK fragrance. But, Instant Crush is not the same as BR 540 and gives you plenty awesomeness on its own.
So, consider this perfume if you want something in the ballpark, but with a greater use of floral notes (rose and jasmine). Along with vanilla and an opening burst of bright citrus. Plus, this perfume goes spicy with less of that ‘clinical’ or ‘dentist’ type of aroma that some people get with BR 540.
Instant Crush is the more dynamic of the two, which many may prefer. That vanilla and spice really make this one something worth trying.
Too Pure
Pure Addiction by Franck Olivier– It seemed like only a matter of time before this brand would throw its hat into the ring, with a similar styled scent to what we want. Pure Addiction is that release and it’s a good one.
This, isn’t the same exact smell, however. It’s lighter and has a greater use of citrus than BR 540. It’s a nice orange note that is paired with the amber and saffron, that we’ve come to expect in most of these fragrances.
It’s somewhat sweeter for most of the wear and in the dry down, Pure Addiction really does have a close resemblance to our target, and is another one for a fraction of the price. As of now, this one isn’t as widely available, but it is floating around.
A Mix of Perfumes
Wild Rose from Coach– Wild Rose lacks the saffron and the fresh woody base of BR 540. But, you get ambroxan, moss, and jasmine in large amounts during the dry down that creates a very similar effect.
For the opening, you get something that is closer to Burberry Her (but better) and Delina by Parfums de Marly.
Red currant and bergamot give this Coach fragrance a fruitiness that BR doesn’t have, but which some people might prefer. Rose and a light tonka bean early gives it a soft Delina-like aroma.
Ultimately, it dries down to a fruity version of Rouge. Sure, not laden with saffron, but the moss does a good job replicating the dryness of the wood. Wild Rose Review
It’s sweet and woody with a floral heart. Almost like a vanilla candy during the dry down period, as it were. The wood notes aren’t too prominent, either and it’s more of a generic white floral note, versus anything specific.
Again, another cheapie option, in body spray form. To me it leans more Cloud than Baccarat Rouge, but that opening does have that same sort of character…just devoid of any saffron.
This Ariana Grande scent, comes across as sweeter and targeted toward a young demographic than Rouge. While BR 540 leans feminine, it can be more of a unisex scent, but Cloud is pretty firmly in the ‘girly’ camp.
That being said, for younger women (teens through twenties), this is another very affordable option that can mimic much of what you get with our target scent. Lavender, sweet sugary warmth, creamy coconut, and a musky base.
The performance is actually very good, so, if you’re one who likes Cloud you’ll get your money’s worth.
It has less of the pear note up top, but is smoother and joined by a rather nice use of ambroxan. It is more substantial than the more sheer original Cloud. Also, it’s middle act has a creamier aroma with the whipped cream, coconut, and other notes getting more time to shine.
Overall, it’s not much more powerful than the original Cloud, but maybe an extra hour or so of wear. I’m adding this perfume to the list, because it is another option for those who like both BR540 and the Ariana Grande alternative. Cloud Intense Review
Extrait
Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait de Parfum– If you want something that’s like the original, why not opt for its flanker perfume? Obviously, Extrait isn’t a Baccarat Rouge 540 dupe.
BR 540 Extrait is the better fragrance, in my opinion. It lasts longer, has more power, and a bittersweet opening act with more saffron and an additional almond note.
The performance with the original is great, but this one is insane on my skin. It isn’t a massive projecting perfume for the entirety of the wear, but it will stay on the skin for 14+ hours, to the point I’m not entirely sure when it fades. On a shirt, it just doesn’t seem to go away.
Yes, this is a pricier fragrance. But, I might as well include it for those who want the better option and not just another inexpensive attempt at being similar. Oh, here’s my comparison between: BR 540 vs. 540 Extrait
The Extrait Similarity
Amber Oud Rouge by Al Haramain– Just as Manage Rouge corresponds with the original BR 540, Amber Oud Rouge, matches up well with the Extrait edition (which I prefer).
Seeing as Extrait is even more costly than the original Kurkdjian scent, Amber Oud Rouge presents a great affordable option for those who prefer the concentrated version.
This one comes across with a strong saffron, maybe less of that almond note, and plenty of musk in the dry down. Not too shabby of a performer for the price either.
The Leathery Option
Spirito Fiorentino by Tizana Terenzi– This one isn’t going to save you much money versus our target and isn’t really an exact match. Yet, it shares a good deal with Baccarat Rouge, while doing its own thing.
The saffron and sweetness is where these two perfumes are a lot alike. Where they differ? This one utilizes a great leather note in the mid and late stages, with dry woodsy notes like birch.
It’s not as soft, still unisex, while leaning slightly more masculine than BR 540. A very interesting take on this style of fragrance.
Opulence for a Low Price
Opulent Musk by Lattafa– This one is somewhat related to Baccarat, but wouldn’t be the first option if you want a complete overlap. It’s a bit brighter with citrus joining the saffron early. I think early it has more of that ‘medical/dentist office’ aroma that people talk about with 540.
Later, that changes and you get a perfume that is a solid mix of musk, ambroxan, and white floral notes. It too has a woody resinous like our target, so, it is easy to pick up on the comparisons.
On the whole, it’s fairly close, but Opulent Musk stands out as being more distinct than the other Lattafa fragrance on the list.
So, thus concludes my page of fragrances that could be considered Baccarat Rouge 540 dupes, clones, similar styles, etc. No formula may be exactly the same as the real thing, but you can get pretty close to the same experience.
Guy Laroche’s Drakkar Noir, was an absolute powerhouse and best seller, back in the 1980s. It was, in many ways, a game changer in the world of men’s fragrances. Today, it can be easy to not recognize that fact, as its popularity also became a curse in many ways.
Nonetheless, it remains a very popular cologne, that men want to smell like. This naturally leads to guys looking for alternatives, clones, or just other fragrances which smell similar to Drakkar Noir. In this post, I am going to explore some of these scents.
Which Colognes are Alternatives or Clones of Drakkar Noir?
Similar with Spice
Rasasi Royale EDP – 75 ml (For Men)– Royale has a lot of similarities to Drakkar, mainly with the lavender and oakmoss, being prominent. This one has a more powerful sillage, more spice, but none of the leather.
As it dries down, more patchouli is present, with a fresh cedar note. Has enough in common with Drakkar Noir, but has its own personality, which makes it distinct.
Barbershop Option
At the Barber by Maison Margiela– This is similar in some ways, but definitely takes a different route from the Guy Laroche scent.
At the Barber is spicier with more citrus influence. However, the moss and woods here aren’t nearly as impactful. But, that spice is great in this one. It features pepper and basil up top, with a rosemary note coming through in the heart.
Yet, we also still get the great lavender note, which is bumped up here and a lot of the woodiness of Drakkar is substituted by the geranium in the Margiela scent. More of an herbal feeling versus pure woods.
Nothing too crazy here, but I like this Replica perfume. A bit unique, a bit like Drakkar, and maybe some Egoiste Platinum thrown in for good measure.
Caesars has a slightly soapy finish, less spice, and is another without the leather note. Very inexpensive option, with a smooth aroma, and a very nice fir note. Masculine.
It’s pretty close, in terms of smell, and the performance is respectable for the low price. Not the best, but a very nice impersonation. Don’t expect a complete recreation of the original, but if you’re on a strict budget, it can be worthwhile.
It does smell different, from the current formulations of Drakkar Noir, to be sure. It gives you the full range of aromas, from woody to soapy to herbal, with a great depth and very good performance. Oh, did I mention it is available for super cheap?
A good blend of lavender/moss and bright citrus notes. Close relative of Drakkar, but not exactly the same.
Close but a Distinct Experience
Ralph Lauren Safari Eau de Toilette Spray, 4.2 fl oz– I’m putting this one on the list, because it is an alternative to Drakkar, not because it is a clone. Safari inhabits the same sort of niche, but can be a great option for guys who want to try something different.
The main thrust of it is an outdoorsy, green herbal plant and woods mixture. However, that’s only the beginning as Safari is a complex, and unique aroma. It’s masculine but tempered by citrus and floral notes.
Nautica Voyage may already be the all-time cheapie best seller. Though, there could be some older scents that are still flying off the shelves, this scent has been the front runner for more than a decade now. People really seem drawn to Voyage.
Yet, you can grow tired of a cologne and might want to try something different, but close enough to the Nautica. In this post, I want to present alternative colognes which fit the bill as being similar to or near matches (if possible) of Voyage.
What Colognes Smell Comparable to Nautica Voyage?
Original Inspiration
Ocean Mist Men by Dua– Dua is a brand that not only has its own unique fragrances they create, they also create their own inspired takes on designer scents. Ocean Mist Men, is there take on the original Voyage formulation.
Now, this is going to be somewhat more expensive than the modern Nautica Voyage sold in stores. However, it is also an extrait de parfum concentration (higher percentage of fragrance oils), which will lead to a more potent perfume.
Clean, aquatic, with that apple and mimosa combination really coming through. Worth a try, if you want a potentially higher quality version of the Voyage note structure.
Spicier Blue Mix
Polo Blue Gold Blend– The Polo Blue line is mostly only tangentially related to our targeted cologne, but Gold Blend does show some noticeable similarities to Voyage.
Still very much a version of Polo Blue, but with nods to Voyage, and a greater use of herbal spice and ambroxan than either. The opening of this features that crisp melon note with a nice use of citrus and the spice blend.
Sage and incense play a big role here, so expect some smoky spiciness in this mix. Nautica Voyage isn’t an exact overlap here, but the DNA is closely related, particularly the use of apple. Gold Blend Review
Great Newer Flanker
Nautica Midnight Voyage– Voyage was such a monster hit for Nautica, that they keep reusing the name to release flanker fragrances. Most of them aren’t that great, but Midnight Voyage actually brings the same value with the familiar yet distinct aroma.
Amber, mint, and pink peppercorn blend with seemingly a bit of the original Voyage DNA. It has that amber/ambroxan sort of aroma, like found in the popular Dior Sauvage. It’s not the same, but you get that kind of vibe.
Midnight Voyage is a bit spicy, but in a fresh and cooling way, while retaining its nautical and summery mystique. I’m almost positive that there’s an unlisted citrus accord in here. This has gone to the discounter’s recently and is a nice pickup if you liked the original.
High End Cold Gin
Roses on Ice by Kilian– Roses on Ice is a part of Kilian’s Liquors collection. I got a sample of this stuff a month or so ago and it does have a similar structure to Voyage. Which is surprising, as this costs about 10x as much. So, I don’t expect many to go for this option.
Basically it’s ice cold gin, cucumber, and a pinkish rose with a greenish aroma. It has the same ozonic/aquatic feeling as our target with the cucumber playing the role of apple. That floral heart and a musky/woody base.
Are they exactly the same? No, Roses on Ice isn’t trying to be, it just has that similar style and approximates what it’s like to wear Voyage. But, at around $200, I don’t find it to be worthwhile.
However, as it dries down, you still get the fruits but also plenty of violet leaf and wood. The middle is more herbal and the end is more earthy/woody. Connected has a really nice sweet and juicy fruit profile, but with more depth than other similar fragrances, on the market.
Reaction Connected is a lot like Nautica Voyage, but with less of the green-ish smell, and the floral notes. Melon with a ‘blue’ impression and some earthier qualities in the dry down. Kind of splitting the difference between Voyage and Polo Blue.
There was an older cologne that was more like Voyage, but Tommy Bahama no longer produces it. But, this is a good replacement.
It opens up fresher than the Nautica. Coriander and the same kind of apple note. This goes along with lavender and violet. It will eventually dry down into a greener fragrance with a base of moss, cardamom, and cedar.
Martime Journey is a drier aromatic when compared to Voyage. It still has the floral notes and that apple sweetness. Not totally akin to the other, but if you liked Voyage, you will probably enjoy this. Maritime Journey Review
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