Armaf Club de Nuit Intense vs. Aventus

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Creed’s Aventus has been so mega-popular over the past decade, it has created its own sub-industry of fragrances trying to mimic or outright match its appealing formula. The most popular of these fragrances is Armaf’s Club de Nuit Intense EDP. But, how do these two scents actually compare? Does Club smell better? Last longer?

Tale of the Tape: Club de Nuit Intense vs. Aventus

Creed Aventus 

creed aventus

Notes of Creed Aventus: 

Top: Blackcurrant, Italian bergamot, French apples and pineapple

Middle: Rose, dry birch, Moroccan jasmine, and patchouli

Base Notes: musk, oak moss, ambergris, and vanilla.

Click here to read my original Aventus Review

Click here to get Aventus: Aventus by Creed

Club de Nuit EDP

Notes include: lemon, apple, blackcurrant, birch, jasmine, rose, vanilla, musk, ambergris, patchouli

Click here to try: Club de Nuit Men EDP

Opening

The sharp pineapple note, with the other citrus and woodsy elements of Aventus has never been something I enjoyed all that much.

That opening isn’t a favorite of mine, but Armaf is the same as well, so no luck in getting something different for me.

The pineapple, blackcurrant, and the dryness of birch can be a bit much at first. However, I do like what it settles into.

Fresh and lively, very enjoyable to wear. Next, you get less pineapple, and more of the birch wood and oak moss. This is where Aventus comes into its own. Plus, a little vanilla sweetness and the remaining apple note.

With Club EDP, I find it to be a smoother version of the EDT from Armaf. I get more of the apple note too, from this version.

The differences here are that Club has a fruitier start. Less smokiness and the birch wood doesn’t have the leathery facets, until later on in the wear. At least on my skin.

Which is better? While I don’t personally enjoy either’s opening act all that much. The Creed quality is higher and I do like the birch wood note better in the original.

Obviously, these two are going to be quite similar, but Aventus still has a nicer balance of its notes and a more engaging scent from the get go.

Edge: Aventus

Projection

Both of these fragrances start off with a good deal of strength and project quite well off of the skin. For the duration of the wear, they are both above average, in this regard.

I’m not sure that Aventus is actually any stronger than Club de Nuit Intense. There may be a slight difference here, but I’m not really getting it.

I’ve tested both of them on skin and have applied to clothing. Putting each fragrance onto a shirt and placing it on a chair, I can detect either of them from about the same distance, when I’ve done this.

No massive difference here.

Edge: Push

Longevity

Club will last for 7-9 hours, on my skin. The more I try it, the more it seems to settle closer to the bottom of that range. Still, very good.

Aventus is a 7-10 hour fragrance. Overlapping with the Armaf. However, I usually get 8-9 hours from the Creed version. It has a higher ceiling and more consistency.

Club de Nuit Intense EDP does give you plenty of wear for the money. That’s why it’s one of, if not the most popular of the Aventus-like colognes out there. Armaf didn’t dilute the idea with a bad performing scent, yet it still is a step behind.

Edge: Aventus

Versatility

There’s no distinction here. One’s mimicking the other, so they cover the same ground.

Mostly all-season fragrances that can be worn dressed up or even more casually. I’d avoid the hottest days of the year with either and both are better in the autumn and early spring, in my opinion.

Really great at being ‘jack of all trades’ sort of fragrances. But, this category is a tie.

Edge: Push

Overall Scent

Between these two, I do still think that Creed Aventus is the better fragrance overall. It has a greater depth and more little facets of different aromas than does Club. It’s the original, has higher quality, and slightly better performance.

However, if I were in the market for Aventus and didn’t want to spend $200-400+ (or whatever the latest pricing is), Club de Nuit Intense from Armaf would be an option, that I’d probably go with.

It gives you much of what you’d get from the Creed in terms of smell. Really, only some minor details are missing, but you save so much money.

If you’re going based on smell alone, I still like the Creed more. Is it that much better, to justify the price for most people?

No, for the vast majority of guys, the cheaper Armaf will do the job just fine. There’s a reason it has become so popular, even in a sea of other Aventus inspirations.

It’s a nice choice. Personally, I went with one of the Poseidon’s Elixir scents by Dua (there’s a ton of varients). It does a very close rendition of Aventus, even if I got the version with added berry notes. Dua is around the same price point at the Armaf, also.

Winner: Aventus

17 Fragrances Similar to Creed Aventus

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Despite its lofty price, Creed’s release from earlier in the decade, has been a constant best-seller. Aventus really captured people’s imagination and took on a life of its own, becoming legendary.

Nonetheless, there are still plenty of guys who want to smell like this perfume, but want to find a cheaper alternative that can come close to its performance. What are the best options for a potential dupe? Which colognes are similar to Aventus?

Why Creed Aventus?

Again, this stuff was released back in 2010 and completely changed the men’s fragrance game. It’s one of those once per decade fragrances that helps to define an era of scent.

It’s balance, sophistication, while still retaining a mass appeal all lend to this Creed enjoying a seemingly never-ending runway of success. Probably for decades to come.

Another aspect of this, is that Aventus has now been copied or attempted to be duped by almost every brand big or small. So, while this list that I’m writing here has plenty of options, it is by no means exhaustive. There are probably hundreds of Aventus wannabe’s at this point.

They’ve also come out with Aventus Cologne and Absolu Aventus. To me, the original is still the best of them, and I don’t get the hype with Absolu.

Favorite Colognes Similar to Creed Aventus

Most Popular Similar Scent

Armaf Club De Nuit Intense Man EDT Men New in Box, 3.6 Fl Oz- This is the best-selling offering from Armaf, and that is likely because of it resemblance to, Creed’s Aventus. I totally understand the comparison, which is definitely intentional.

Between the two, Club de Nuit Intense is much heavier with lemon, than the Creed is, and doesn’t have the same level of pineapple.

Also, while it does share the birch note, Aventus always struck me as a much drier scent with a heavier smoky quality.

Both are still present in Club Intense, just not to the same extent. Performance wise, this Armaf is pretty top notch. Club de Nuit Intense EDT vs. EDP

Update: They’ve released so many variants of this, it’s hard to keep up. But, these two originals are easy to go with.

A More Accurate Cheapie

Supremacy Silver by Afnan– So, Supremacy Silver is a cleaner and more accurate representation of an Aventus like aroma than is Club de Nuit Intense. However, with that, the performance isn’t all that great. You might get 5 hours with heavier sprays.

But, it’s also in the $30-40 range, which  is a pretty good deal, even with subpar staying power. Personally, I’d probably go with one of the next two options in the $50-60 range, and get the better longevity and sillage.

The opening here is probably the closest with feeling like Aventus. The dry down to me, doesn’t have the same level of fruitiness and lacks some of the nuance. For $30? It’s pretty much a gem.

Dossier Alternative

Musky Oakmoss by Dossier– This doesn’t 100% smell comparable to Aventus, but it gets really close. It lacks some of the smokiness, vanilla, and black currant that the Creed has. But, since those are details in the original, it’s not a big deal.

What it does have is a slightly spicier vibe and a more distinct oakmoss, at times. So, fresh with that dryness, that really highlights the later stages of Aventus.

This one is around $50 per bottle and gives you a scent that hits all the basic notes of the Creed well, with a few of the details missing, but not overly noticeable.

Inspired Fragrance

Poseidon’s Elixir by Dua Brands– So, the Dua Brand’s fragrance is a closely similar scent. Probably not the exact same depth, but for $50-60 per bottle, it’s as close to the Creed scent that you’re going to encounter. (Note: it’s often on sale for much cheaper, I’m just showing the retail price).

I linked above to Poseidon’s Elixir 2.0 on their site. This is a fruitier version of an Aventus sort of aroma, if that’s your thing.

They also have like close to 60 different remixes and blends with other famous colognes. So, you might spend a while sorting through the list, and wanting something a little different.

However, the Dua version have beast mode longevity and great projection, as they are Extrait de Parfums. High concentration of the fragrance oils.

You can get blends with their inspired takes of Virgin Island Water, Sauvage, and a bunch of others that may be worth checking out. Or, go with something more true to the original.

Recently, I grabbed a bottle of Poseidon’s Berry Affair. This takes the Aventus formula and adds berry notes such as: blueberry, blackberry, elderberry, cranberry, raspberry, etc. You still get pineapple and apple in the top, but they now share an even fruitier stage.

A Select Option

Mercedes-Benz Select– This is an interesting one, since it doesn’t try to be an exact copy of Aventus, but has elements of it, Explorer by Mont Blanc, and Aventus Cologne. The smokiness isn’t here, it’s not as dry or woody, and it is without leather.

Mercedes-Benz Select is a fresher fruitier scent with notes of the same apple and blackcurrant as our Creed target.

Those notes are also going to play a larger role for longer, with musky undertones really emerging after this initial blast.

One of the differences, is going to be the citrus note. Bergamot is heavier and sort of dominates the other fruits in the mix. Not a super strong cologne, nor is it as complicated as Aventus, but this certainly has its charm.

Another Inspiration

Executive by Alt Fragrances– Executive is another option for those who want something closer to the smell of the Creed. I actually haven’t tried this particular one out, but I’ve had some good results with other ALT scents.

Like Dua Brand fragrances, they are Extrait de Parfum strength. Based on the reviews, Executive strikes an uncanny resemblance to what you get with Aventus. The price is also about what Poseidon’s Elixir listed above, goes for.

Again, not sure if it’s totally a comparable smell to Creed’s version, but it seems like it should be.

Immortal Perfume

Immortal Zeus by Fragrenza– This is another one that mimics an aroma like the Creed fragrance. I bought a sample of it and it is actually quite good.

The fruity notes have more of a balance, but the pineapple note is still very present. There also seems to be a bit more of the apple and much more juniper coming through versus Aventus. Maybe some more vanilla underneath.

But, overall it isn’t as smoky, the performance is solid (in the 7-8 hour range), and along the same line in price as others on the list. Plus, you can order samples to try.

Ineffable Inspiration

Ineffable by Oakcha– This one is the take of Oakcha, on the Creed Aventus style, which is available in a 30 or 50ml sized bottle.

Ineffable is an option that I’ve come across, while trying to find more fragrances that smell like Aventus. But, it’s also one that I haven’t tried out yet.

The brand itself has a good reputation and Ineffable itself has plenty of positive reviews about it. Looking at the notes here, it’s the same structure as Aventus, really all that’s needed is to get the weightings and quality of the ingredients correct.

It appears that Oakcha has done that. Just another one for you to potentially go for.

Yet Again

Brasilia by Alexandria– I’m updating this page with another alternative that bases itself on the Creed formula.

Alexandria actually does very good work with their inspired by perfumes. One good thing about them, is that you can purchase one of four different sizes between 30-100ml. So, once you like it you can grab a large bottle and be set for a longer time.

I’ve tried other fragrances from this brand and had good experiences with them. This one, is not one that I’ve come in contact with. Another extrait de parfum strength, that I can’t imagine they screwed up too much.

Leathery Alternative

Zara Men’s VIBRANT LEATHER Eau De Parfum 4.06 FL. OZ– This entry by Zara is Aventus, if it were of lesser quality, and had a big dose of leather. Vibrant Leather does have some overlapping similarities with Aventus, mainly being, the citrus and (some) earthy/spiciness.

However, it lacks the woods, ambergris, and much of the nuance that Aventus brings to the table. This one is also more weighted to the citrus, more lemon, than a bergamot/pineapple found in the Creed.

Performance isn’t great, but you can find this for cheap.

To update things, they’ve also released an Elixir version of Vibrant Leather, which still lacks the pineapple but is a slightly more powerful remix. Actually, has some similarities with Eros Energy (listed below). Elixir isn’t quite Aventus nor Aventus cologne, but it strikes a close chord.

A Designer Sibling

Montblanc EXPLORER Cologne for Men 3.3 fl.Oz Eau De Parfum Spray– Montblanc’s new release, Explorer, is probably the highest quality scent on this list. However, it isn’t an exact match of Aventus, but it does come quite close and does it with a designer flair.

The Explorer series is funny, this release was quite good, and they followed it up with some pretty mid follow-ups that aren’t really like this one at all.

The opening act, actually is where it strikes my nose as being an Aventus sort of smell but blended with the citrus of Burberry Weekend.

The sharp citrus aroma, spice, and dry vetiver. Wow, it’s a damn good impression. As it dries down, it gives you an ambroxan note similar to Sauvage, and not the same as Aventus’ ambergris.

What does it lack? Less woody, no pineapple, less smoky, no floral notes. Not the same level of sillage, as Aventus. Though, the longevity is pretty great, even without the beast projection. Explorer Review

Smooth, No Ambergris

Insurrection II Pure FOR MEN by Reyane – 3.0 oz EDT Spray– Insurrection II Pure is similar but not the same as Aventus. What you do get is a smooth and fruity fragrance, albeit the fruit is more citrus blend, than pineapple.

This is the most similar aspect, but again, not the same. Beyond that, is a nice dry birch note.

What do you not get? Well, Aventus has more floral accords. It also has a drier and smokier quality. Oh, and the famous Creed ambergris, is totally lacking here.

For the price, it is a very good mimicry, with solid performance, and an aroma that smells like a close relative of Aventus.

Super Cheap, Not the Best

Lomani Ab Spirit Silver Men’s Eau de Toilette Spray, 3.3 Ounce– Lomani does have some men’s fragrances, which do an admirable job at comparing to the scent of famous colognes. Ab Spirit Silver attempts to do this with Aventus, strikes a close chord, but ultimately falls short.

It’s citrusy, has some dries woods, and floral notes. The citrus, just doesn’t smell the same as Aventus. It doesn’t have any amber nor ambergris. Plus, the performance isn’t all that great.

However, it is an option, on the super cheap end of the spectrum. So, I thought I’d throw it on the list. Just wouldn’t be the top pick, by any means.

Resemblance, Not the Same Depth

Al Haramain L´Aventure Eau De Parfum for Men, 3.33 oz.– To me, this is less of an Aventus sort of smell, and more of a member of the same family. It’s got a muskier profile, with a sharp citrus opening, and a very nice blend of wood notes.

L’Aventure is a well rounded and put together inspired sort of take on Aventus. It’s not an exact match, but it goes on smooth, and does actually have a good level of quality.

It ultimately lacks smokiness, the details of Aventus, and is more of a citrus/woods combo that’s close to the Creed…without taking it on fully.

So, it wouldn’t be my first pick, but ultimately it’s a pretty decent cologne that gets you maybe 70-75 percent there.

Juicy Citrus, Moderate Performance

Supremacy Pour Homme by Afnan Eau De Parfum Spray For Men 3.4 Oz / 100 ml– This is a very good and closely comparable smell. It actually has the sharp black currant note, with citrus, and a strong pineapple.

I don’t notice the same level of apple nor the smokiness, nor the same level of dryness.

Outside of all of that? Yep, this is a close approximation of what we want.  Supremacy Silver doesn’t have the same sillage strength, as our target, but the longevity is right up there. You’re essentially getting most of what you’d get from Aventus, for a fraction of the price.

I’ve seen it in the $30-60 range, per bottle. Not super cheap, but way more affordable than anything by Creed.

The Cologne Version

Aventus Cologne by Creed– The original Aventus spawned this ‘Cologne’ version of the scent. To me, it’s not quite as good, but it is lighter and has a slightly different vibe to its predecessor.

It opens up with a mandarin orange note, in lieu of the pineapple. Along with some ginger and mint to add to the freshness. The smokiness from the original is gone, but this does start to show many more similarities to Aventus, with its woodsy dry down.

For some guys, this is going to be the better option. One that is fresher, lighter, and not nearly as dense as the original can feel like at times. On my skin, the performance wasn’t great, but others seem to have better luck with it. Aventus Cologne Review

Cologne Eros

Eros Energy– This release from Versace isn’t an option for those who want something similar to the original Aventus. However, the style is fairly close to what you get with Aventus Cologne.

A burst of citrus notes to open things up. From bergamot to grapefruit to orange to lemon and even black currant.

The dry down is a muskier and amber laced affair. The citrus still hangs around, but it’s not nearly as prominent.

Again, this isn’t exact, but it is one that will end up at the discounters for much cheaper than you can get Aventus Cologne. And since neither are spectacular fragrances, might as well go with Energy, if you’re in the market. Eros Energy Review

Sauvage Parfum vs Elixir Comparison

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Sauvage has become the most popular fragrance in the world. Seriously, the original is the best selling men’s or women’s scent, as of publishing…the first time a men’s cologne has done that. Or at least, the entire Sauvage line up is depending on how the count is done.

Either way, the Dior brand has naturally rolled out a line of flanker scents to capitalize on this fact. Two of them, Sauvage Parfum and the newer Elixir are among the best of them.

But, which one actually is more worthwhile? Lasts longer? I’ve tested both of these scents multiple times over the years and will break it all down for you below.

Tale of the Tape Sauvage Elixir vs. Parfum

Sauvage Parfum

Notes include: mandarin, bergamot, cedar, sandalwood, vanilla, tonka bean, ambroxan

Click here to try: Sauvage Parfum

Read my review: Dior Sauvage Parfum Review

Sauvage Elixir

Notes include: grapefruit, wood, lavender, nutmeg, cardamom, cinnamon, patchouli, vetiver

Click here to try: Sauvage Elixir at Macy’s

Read my review: Sauvage Elixir

Opening

Sauvage Parfum opens with the usual bergamot note from the line. However, this time, it is paired with a mandarin orange as well. The mandarin adds a juiciness to the start and actually ends up being the stronger note of the two.

Another aspect that I enjoy, is that both the ambroxan and pepper notes are toned down in Parfum versus the EDT.

That’s a nice change of pace, as that was my least favorite part of that fragrance.

Sauvage Parfum begins with that same bergamot note, but paired with mandarin orange, this time around.

It’s juicy, not as sharp, and the mandarin outlasts the bergamot, to my nose. The ambroxan is toned down and the spicy pepper notes aren’t present during this part of the wear.

It’s really smooth and less sharp. Parfum will end up being geared more towards vanilla and the woodier parts of the scent, but that’s what you get in the opening.

Meanwhile, Elixir kicks things off with a lot of spice. This time, it’s a blend of: cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. The citrus is light and is coming from grapefruit. I enjoy it and it gives off a nice intensity from the jump.

The next phase will feature more of the lavender and some sweetness from licorice and amber. Sauvage Elixir is spicy, woody, with enough sweetness to keep it interesting.

Which has the better opening? It’s a really close call in my mind. But, I have always liked how Parfum starts off. To me, it really nailed the Sauvage notes in a perfect balance in the start. Elixir is also great, but kind of does its own thing.

Edge: Parfum

Projection

Parfum has a strong projection, that is pretty consistent for many hours, and leaves a nice silllage trail. Not too overpowering, but certainly above average in the world of fragrance.

Elixir is much stronger, though. It’s a beast with its performance. Beyond that, the strength doesn’t just come and go, it will stick around for a long time with that same projection level.

Dior really ramped up the power with Sauvage Elixir, the change of focus on notes, newer ingredients, and a higher concentration really paid off.

Edge: Elixir

Longevity

Both of these Sauvage fragrances will last over 10 hours. Neither is going to give you a bad performance, but one does have a longer wear.

Sauvage Parfum will hit that 10 hour mark, maybe get me 11, depending on the day. It’s by no means weak or ineffectual. This and the Eau de Parfum are well above the original EDT.

It’s just that, Elixir, will keep right on going. 12+ hours without issue and can go well beyond that. I’m not exactly sure when it quits, because I don’t need anything more.

I would guess it’s somewhere in the 15 hour range, on my skin at least. You do get plenty of bang for your buck with this fragrance.

Elixir takes this round too.

Edge: Elixir

Versatility

Elixir and Parfum are two of the more mature scents from the Sauvage line. Neither is going to be a summertime wear, so they are about equal in terms of the climate.

I think Parfum gets the edge, as it will appeal to a younger audience as well as older guys. Both can venture into the nightlife, but I think that Parfum will probably be better for day to day wear.

It’s not as powerful, since you would need to go easy on spraying Elixir. Plus, that heavier spice and licorice note, might not fit in quite as well in some circumstances.

I think they original Sauvage formula has a lot of mass appeal and Parfum is a more refined version of it. Elixir is bolder and while still very enjoyable, Sauvage Parfum can simply cover a bit more in terms of use case.

Edge: Parfum

Overall Scent

Overall, which of these fragrances do I prefer?

Again, close call. I really like the opening act of Sauvage Parfum. I think that Dior got it right with that blend. A good use of the citrus notes, without the same level of sharpness and peppery spice.

It’s smoother, darker, and more refined than the EDT, which everything on the market is trying to be a knockoff of Dior Sauvage EDT. It has a dryness, a sweetness, and isn’t an ambroxan bomb.

It ends up being more woody and vanilla, but I really like the opening act with the citrus. The dry down is good, but the woodiness isn’t quite as appealing to me.

I think Elixir is the better fragrance. It takes Sauvage in a new direction, while still being true to the concept. Plus, the performance is unreal.

The lavender, patchouli, and vetiver are the only commonalities in terms of notes versus the other Sauvage colognes. The structure of spice, citrus, and woods holds true…but they substitute newer ingredients.

Elixir has a great mix of spices. The cinnamon and nutmeg just work amazingly well within the composition. The lavender feels more natural, the amber smoother, and the licorice note adds a further distinct character.

It is the better buy. However, it you want something closer to the original EDT, you might still go with Parfum.

Parfum is probably the more wearable for most people on a day to day basis. If you don’t want that strong spice or the licorice note, it’ll probably be the better bet for you.

Note: If you still can’t decide, you might also try, Dua’s inspired take on Parfum: The Savage Attar, and get Elixir from Dior.

Personally, I like Sauvage Eau de Parfum better than either of thesee.

In this contest? I’m going with Elixir.

Winner: Sauvage Elixir

5 Perfumes Similar to Devotion

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Devotion from Dolce & Gabbana is a fragrance series that has been picking up steam, since its release. It’s a delicious and fun gourmand perfume that is easy to wear and easy to love.

Yet, sometimes you may want something that smells similar to Devotion, but with some slightly different notes to enjoy or want to find a cheaper fragrance option that can do most of the job itself. On this page, I will keep track of perfumes that fit the bill, and provide some variety to this style of fragrance.

Fragrances that Smell Like Devotion

Loyal Alternative

Her Loyalty by The Dua Brand– The Dua Brand creates their own inspired takes on famous women’s fragrances. Her Loyalty is their version of Devotion aroma.

They do a really good job at coming close to what you’re going to get with the designer perfume. The extrait de parfum concentration, also leads to having a really good performance.

This is one that I haven’t personally tried out. Though, I’ve probably owned a dozen or so bottles from Dua, and have enjoyed what I’ve gotten from them. If you want an inexpensive option, this is probably a safe bet.

One from Burberry

Goddess EDP by Burberry– Goddess is a very popular release from Burberry, which came out before Devotion did. They are quite a bit similar in their style.

I will say that I personally prefer Devotion (or Devotion Intense) to what I get from Goddess EDP.

Still, if you want a more vanilla-centered fragrance, the Burberry is the better of the two for that.  There’s some cacao here, but the tail end is mainly going to be about that vanilla and lavender.

The D&G scent is much more dynamic and has that earlier use of lemon, spice, and give a more generalized ‘baked goods’ aroma.  For some, that might not be what you’re looking for, and Goddess EDP can provide an alternative that’s close to Devotion, while doing its own thing. Goddess EDP review

Bath and Body 

Loyal to You by B&BW– The Bath and Body Works fragrance is available in spray, lotions, and a perfume. It really does come pretty darn close to Devotion in terms of how it smells. As a very cheap option, this one gives you a wearable alternative.

Yet, it’s not exactly the same. The lemon note seems a bit weaker, the vanilla not as creamy, lots of marshmallow here, and the performance doesn’t match up. But, Loyal to You does give you that sugary lemon cake scent, that is oh so good.

Note: this one now seems tougher to find (the perfume version, at least). As such, don’t bother chasing a bottle if it’s selling for a price close to Devotion. Probably just pick up the Dua or the  following scent.

Name Game

Victoria by Lattafa– Lemon meringue pie is the vibe that this Lattafa scent is putting out. It’s not an exact one to one of Devotion, but it is a much more affordable option.

I would say that this one isn’t as dense, warm, inviting, or well-rounded as the D&G. Though, it still does a nice job at capturing the baked goods smell, without letting that lemon note get too juicy or tart. Instead its well balanced with the vanilla notes.

This feels more linear and lacks some of the complexity that Devotion or Devotion Intense presents. Soft and sugary, but with enough staying power to basically match what you get from our target fragrance.

I’ve seen this for under $30, so, it’s not too much of a commitment to give Victoria a try.

Step into the Bakery

Bake by Akro– This is another one that is similar to Devotion in terms of style, but ultimately different. This is both kind of like Devotion and Lira by Xerjoff in it’s overall composition. Still, Bake is a creamy and sweet cake-like scent.

This isn’t one that’s going to save any money in comparison (currently I’m seeing it for $150+ online). That lemon and vanilla opening is familiar. The lemon is zesty, there’s a touch of rum booziness, and maybe some ambroxan in the mix too.

There is a sugary aroma, but this one also has periods where bake feels quite creamy, and then more like a cookie than a cake. Overall, this is an impressive and enjoyable perfume to wear when it’s colder outside (I’d avoid wearing this in the spring/summer entirely).

Maybe not worth the price for everybody, but Akro’s Bake give you another potential option to wear instead of Devotion.

Myslf Le Parfum vs. L’Absolu

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Myslf from YSL continues to expand its popularity among people with each of its successive releases. 2025 saw the release of the third cologne in the series, Myslf Absolu. With that being the case, I wanted to do a new comparison post between it and Le Parfum.

Which Myslf fragrance smells better? Lasts longer? Is the better buy?

Tale of the Tape: Myslf Le Parfum vs Absolu

Myslf Le Parfum

Notes include: black pepper, orange blossom, Bourbon vanilla, amber, patchouli, woods

Click here to try: YSL Myslf Le Parfum

Myslf L’Absolu

Notes include: ginger, bergamot, cardamom, orange blossom, woods, patchouli

Read my review: Absolu

Get Absolu: at Sephora

Opening

Myslf Le Parfum starts off fresh and sweet. There’s still a hint of bergamot present, but orange blossom really takes the lead in this version.

The orange blossom brings a bubblegum-like sweetness to the table, though the black pepper up top does a good job of balancing it out. You get a nice spicy kick without it being overwhelming.

There’s warmth here, and I’m picking up a fair bit of woods and patchouli right from the start as well.

Absolu starts off powerfully with ginger at the forefront, working alongside that familiar bergamot note. There’s a cool spiciness happening here that feels quite fresh, and the cardamom becomes more apparent after about 5 to 10 minutes.

The citrus burst at the start fades back, and the fragrance moves into a spicier floral combination featuring ginger, cardamom, and the signature orange blossom.

By now, the scent has grown warmer compared to that cooler opening vibe. It maintains a sparkling, somewhat sweet character. The spice notes have mellowed out and Absolu has settled into its floral center. Orange blossom, naturally.

Which is better? While, I do like what I get from Myslf Le Parfum at the start, the additional freshness and energy that Absolu brings to the table, is just better to me. I enjoy both, but one has a clear advantage.

Edge: Absolu

Projection

To me, both of these have close to the same level of projection. Very good ability to envelop the wearer and make itself known in a room. While also, not being an absolute beast.

So, in those terms they’re about equal. However, Le Parfum does have a denser and heavier feeling than does the fresher Absolu. Which can create the perception that it is the stronger of the two.

But, spraying each on a shirt and then walking away from it, I can detect them to about the same distance. Le Parfum does feel a bit more substantial, though.

Edge: Parfum

Longevity

The longevity of each of these for me sits at 9-10 hours of wear. I’ve been testing each of them and rotating between these Myslf fragrances and that’s what I consistently get. Both are better than EDP, while being equal to one another.

Edge: Push

Versatility

When it comes to seasons, Myslf Absolu basically works all year. I’d lean toward moderate to warmer weather with it. Just like before, avoid wearing this in peak summer heat.

It handles both day and night well. This is a polished floral cologne where the fresh spiciness really comes alive in the evening hours. That’s what sets it apart from the EDP. There’s more detail and refinement here.

It’s crowd-pleasing but has some edge to it. This could easily become someone’s go-to fragrance or even their only one.

Le Parfum follows a similar pattern. It outperforms the EDP and Absolu when it’s colder out, but doesn’t handle the heat quite as well. It’s not terrible in higher temperatures, but the others have the advantage there.

I think both are fine for nightlife or romantic occasions. They have more depth than your typical clean everyday scent.

Not too much distinction here. The temperature might have an effect on which you would wear. Maybe, give Parfum an edge as a more formal scent, but there’s much separation.

Edge: Push

Overall Scent

Ok, so overall which of these two YSL colognes do I like more after extensive testing?

I do personally rank both of them higher than the original eau de parfum release.

With Parfum, I think the quality improves and the longevity gives it an advantage when compared to the EDP. Much of that edge is removed when it’s put alongside Absolu.

The vanilla, amber, and orange blossom combination really shines in the later stages. Le Parfum goes through phases where it turns powdery, then shifts woodier, then becomes more of an amber-driven floral.

That opening is solid, but a step behind.

With Absolu, The ginger and cardamom elevate the overall blend significantly. I really like the sweetness and fresh spiciness that you get to go along with that central orange blossom note.

Even stacked up against Le Parfum, this one feels more accessible as a floral cologne for the average person, and it brings extra dimension to the orange blossom base.

For me, I think I’d rather have a bottle of Myslf Absolu around. Others, may prefer the darker and sometimes earthier floral blend of Le Parfum. Absolu is the safer blind buy. However, for a portion of people they are going to really love what Parfum brings to the table.

Winner: Absolu