Cheap & Chic I Love Love by Moschino

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Beyond just having a long and rather odd name, Cheap & Chic I Love Love, has gained a reputation as an affordable option for the warmer months of the year. It actually came out back in 2004, so, this Moschino perfume has stuck around for a long time in this role.

It’s not a super inexpensive scent, but for usually around $30 or so, it has become a name to know when looking for a bargain. Is it actually worth it? How does it smell? How long does it last?

What does Cheap & Chic I Love Love Smell Like?

Notes include: orange, lemon, grapefruit, redcurrant, rush, lily of the valley, tea rose, cinnamon leaves, tanaka wood, musk, cedar

Click here to try: I Love Love Cheap and Chic by Moschino for Women 3.4 oz Eau de Toilette Spray 

My Full Review

I Love Love opens up with a bright and juicy citrus mix. Up top, it’s mostly about the orange, with lemon and grapefruit flanking. This Cheap and Chic perfume is super fresh and completely upbeat. There is also the redcurrant which has a red berry aroma, against the citrus.

Obviously, this one gets compared to Light Blue by D&G, and the similarities are very obvious.  The main difference is the additional citrus notes in this one, no apple, and less of the cedar than in the Dolce perfume. 

I Love Love is also sweeter, with a tinge of sugar, lurking in the background. 

 

As it moves along, some of the middle notes, start to come out. I will say, the Lily of the Valley and tea rose, aren’t all that strong nor detectable on my skin. I can pick up some cinnamon, but it almost gets lost in the citrus.

At this stage, the orange is no longer dominant, and actually falls behind the lemon and grapefruit in strength.

On a shirt, the floral notes do have more of a presence. More lily and cinnamon. Nevertheless, musk and cedar are stronger than either of those ingredients, and serve as the base notes.

What you’re left with is a lemon heavy citrus mix, with hints of musk, and a woody base headed up by the cedar. 

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

The sillage of I Love Love is pretty good, but not overly powerful. It’ll project on the skin in about a 4-6 foot radius around you. The citrus notes can be sharp, but the perfume isn’t going to choke out a room.

The longevity is also solid, somewhere in the 6-8 hour range, for me. For a daily wear or casual summertime fragrance, that’s more than enough, for most occasions.

Seasonally, as I said, this is a spring and summertime perfume. It’s good for wearing around town during the daytime, can be an office scent, or just casually.

It’s not really a nightlife perfume or something that will come across as ‘sexy’.

Though, it can be worn by all ages and is one with a definite mass appeal, as expected with something so much like the Dolce perfume.

Overall Impression of I Love Love

Do I like this perfume? I do. I actually prefer this mix of citrus versus the lemon and apple of Light Blue. It’s a pretty simple fragrance, but one that does a good job, for a cheap price.

The sweetness here is better and it doesn’t come across as hyper fresh or harsh as the Dolce & Gabbana perfume can. Though, you do still get plenty of freshness from this one. I do like that red currant and lemon combination up top.

The cedar and apple in that one, can turn away some people. This Moschino has a better balance.

You get good performance and a freshly attractive smell. This Moschino offering is a great option for those who want a summertime fragrance or are looking to replace Light Blue with something else. 

Uomo Born in Roma by Valentino

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Uomo Born in Roma was a fragrance that I’ve overlooked since its release in 2019. I really didn’t know anything about the way it smelled going in and I liked the Uomo series from this brand. As such, I was intrigued to finally give it a try. How does it smell? When should it be worn? Is it even worth a try?

What does Uomo Born in Roma Smell Like?

Notes include: ginger, salt, mineral notes, sage, vetiver, violet leaf 

Click here to try: Valentino Uomo Born In Roma EDT 3.4 oz / 100 ml Men’s Spray 

My Full Review

Upon first spraying Born in Roma, I am amazed at how much this mimics the Invictus line of scents. Mainly, the original Invictus and Invictus Aqua. Roma has that same artificial candy-like sweetness.

The difference is, it is toned down in the Valentino and there aren’t any citrus notes, as in Invictus. Instead, this one gives me a very prominent mineral accord (like mineral oil’s smell) and violet leaf (which is also in Invictus Aqua).

Beyond that, some light ginger, salt, and some sage also come through. It’s not an aquatic, but all the notes do come together for that very similar Paco Rabanne-like fragrance. The mineral accord is the equivalent of the Invictus ambergris.

As it dries down further, Born in Roma begins to take on its own personality. Less of that candy-like sweetness and more of a soapy/fresh clean scent. The main notes that I get throughout are: violet leaf, mineral accord, vetiver, and wood. 

It is an interesting transformation, but it doesn’t really develop beyond that. Up top is the mass appeal of an Invictus sort of cologne. Then, the really fresh and outdoorsy clean of notes like violet leaf and vetiver.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

Born in Roma opens up pretty strong. It’ll project probably 5-8 feet from the skin, at first, before moving in to the 3-4 foot range. Overall, above average but fairly moderate. 

The longevity seems to fall in the 7-8.5 hour range. That’s what I got the first time I wore it. The second time, I started to get a headache and nausea, a few minutes after I sprayed it on. Maybe this stuff was the trigger?

Either way, I scrubbed it off. But, I will say, based on how difficult it was to scrub off my skin the performance should be quite good. 

Mainly, this would be a spring or summer fragrance. It could venture into more moderate temperatures, but would feel out of place in the wintertime.

Born in Roma skews younger. It is more of a casual fragrance, nightlife, and the like. I wouldn’t wear this to the office or a formal occasion. More maturity than Invictus, but not that much more.

 

Overall Impressions of Born in Roma

Overall, do I like this scent? It’s not terrible, but it’s not one that I’d want to wear. It’s not an Invictus clone, but there is so much overlap with the aroma. I’m pretty sick of smelling these same sorts of colognes over and over again.

That being said, if it’s your type of fragrance, you might really enjoy this one. The dry down is much better in my opinion, than that opening act. I’m not a huge violet leaf fan, but I like the vetiver and woods in the base.

Violet leaf and mineral notes together, generally isn’t going to be something I want to spray on myself. There are some exceptions, and this one is pretty good, just not good enough.

The performance is solid and it will certainly have some appeal for the public. I’d probably try to find a bottle at a discount, because it’s overpriced at Valentino retail costs.

Update: Yeah, this one became pretty popular since its release and the Born in Roma line keeps on going. Other people seem to enjoy this much more than I ever have. This Valentino line doesn’t have much appeal for me, personally.

Born in Roma Coral Fantasy and Intense are two other options that I’ve reviewed, as of this update. I think that Intense is the best one that I’ve come across.

Polo Red EDP by Ralph Lauren

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Polo Red is a formula that keeps getting used by Ralph Lauren. The initial EDT has sold so well, that every form of flanker seems to be getting put out by the designer. The latest is 2020’s Polo Red Eau de Parfum. I recently received a sample of this cologne and was really interested in trying it out. How does it smell? Perform? When can it be worn? Is it even worth a try?

What does Polo Red Eau de Parfum Smell Like?

Notes include: red grapefruit, ginger, cranberry, lavender, sage, cedar, benzoin, oud, resin, musk

My Full Wear Review

Polo Red EDP is obviously going to have a lot of overlap with the Red EDT version (review). The start of EDP has the same cranberry note, but paired with grapefruit, instead of lemon. Also, there is a prominent ginger also hanging around.

It’s less sharp, less sweet, but much more tolerable than the original Polo Red. I liked that one a lot, upon its initial release. However, the lemon could get annoying.

A bit further along, sage comes in and takes a bit of shine from the cranberry note. Ginger and sage, is a nice combination. Red Eau de Parfum has a definite balance between sweet and spicy during the early stages of the wear.

Other notes that I pick up on before it dries down completely are the lavender and benzoin. That’s one way that EDP, really separates itself from the other fragrances in this line. Smoother, slightly medicinal from the benzoin, and then the woody blend in the base of the scent.

The final dry down to me, is just woods and lavender mostly. There is still the impression of sweetness from the cranberry, but it no longer smells like a distinct ingredient.

Sillage, Longevity, and Versatility

Red EDP isn’t a powerhouse. It will project itself just fine from the skin for the first few hours, before becoming more intimate. It’s not weak, on my skin, but it is pretty middle of the road. Maybe, only slightly better than the EDT.

It’s not really long lasting either, but quite passable. The times that I’ve worn it so far, I have gotten 6-7.5 hours each time. Not terrible, but it might be disappointing if you paid full price for a bottle.

Seasonally, any time other than summer. Probably better in the autumn and into winter, but it doesn’t have the same overwhelming sweetness as some of the others in the Polo Red line.

The smoothness of lavender and woods allows Red EDP to venture a bit further into the warmer months of spring.

I think that the other Red colognes skew toward a younger audience. Eau de Parfum does have a more mature vibe than them, but still feels younger, just well put together.

It could be worn casually, out on a date, to work, school and many other scenarios. It isn’t an ‘in your face’ fragrance, so, it probably isn’t going to offend anyone. I’d lean more casual to semi-formal wearing this one, but it’s not too bad elsewhere.

Overall Impressions of Polo Red Eau de Parfum

Do I like this Polo release? I do. I don’t like it as much as Extreme, but I think it might be the second best release. I like the EDT and Intense, but this feels more wearable than either.

Intense can be too much, with the sweetness and feels cloying, at times. Red EDT can be too sharp with the citrus. EDP is a good balance between them.

If you liked either of those Polo Red’s, you’ll probably enjoy this. If you didn’t like any Polo Red scent, you almost certainly won’t like EDP.

I like the cranberry and ginger mix, up top, as it’s a common ginger ale blend that already works as a beverage…so why not a scent? It has a nice use of sage and a woods/lavender dry down, which tones down the level of sweetness.

Performance is pretty good, but not outstanding. Probably the biggest weakness here. I don’t know that this is going to win any new converts to Polo Red, but EDP is a solid release from Polo.

Not a must have for me, I like wearing it well enough, but it doesn’t completely grab me. Again, I’d still rather wear Extreme,

Polo Red Intense vs. Polo Blue

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In this edition of the men’s fragrance comparisons, I am going to be taking a closer look at two offerings from Ralph Lauren, Polo Red Intense vs. Polo Blue EDT. Which of these popular colognes smells the best? Which lasts longer? Which is the better buy? I am going to be comparing the eau de toilette version of Polo Blue, as it is the more popular of the two options. I have included my original reviews of each fragrance linked below.

Tale of the Tape: Polo Red Intense vs. Blue EDT

Polo Blue

Notes include: amber, melon, patchouli, geranium, cucumber, tangerine, moss, musk

Click here to try: Polo Blue by Ralph Lauren for Men, Eau De Toilette Natural Spray, 4.2 Ounce

Read my original review: Polo Blue Review

Polo Red Intense

Notes include: cranberry, grapefruit, coffee, leather, ginger, amber, lavender, lemon, cedar, sage, saffron

Click here to try: Ralph Lauren Polo Red Intense for Men 4.2 Oz Edp Spray By Ralph Lauren, 4.2 Fluid Ounce

Read my original review: Polo Red Intense

Opening

Polo Blue starts off with a cool and crisp aroma, with notes of melon and cucumber, checking in early. Those are the two main attractions, with a nice aquatic scent, and a light tangerine and amber note. It is simple and pleasant.

Red Intense starts off with the same lemon and cranberry notes of Polo Red, but with added spices, to give it its own flavor. Red Intense brings forth a heavier dose of sage, saffron, coffee, and ginger. It is a sweet fruit blend with warm herbal spice.

Which is better? To me, Red Intense has the better opening, hands down. It is an improved version of Polo Red, which I already thought started off better than Blue. So, Red Intense is great. After that initial wave, you start to get more leather and lavender, to add a smoothness to the composition.

Edge: Red Intense

Projection

Polo Red Intense does start off with a few hours of pretty strong sillage, before becoming more moderate. It is definitely strong enough to be noticed, with normal application.

Polo Blue doesn’t hit the same heights as Intense, but is a pretty moderate scent throughout. Keep in mind, Red Intense is an EDP and this Polo Blue is an EDT version.

Edge: Red Intense

Longevity

The longevity of Polo Blue is actually pretty good and competes well with Polo Red Intense. With Blue, I get 7-8 hours of wear, consistently. Red Intense will go between 7-9, so, it does have a bit extra. Though, not a major difference.

Edge: Red Intense (slightly)

Versatility

Both of these scents are very versatile. Polo Blue is a bit better in terms of what climate, it can be worn in. It will hold up in the heat, while Red Intense isn’t great on those hotter days.

Meanwhile, Red Intense is better for nightlife, and has more sex appeal. Both are fine casually. pretty evenly matched, but I think Blue EDT holds up a bit better at school or work than does Intense.

Edge: Blue

Overall Scent

Polo Blue is a nice fragrance, but fairly linear, and nothing spectacular. I like it’s aquatic elements, the cucumber/melon/tangerine trio have a bright and crisp aroma. All of this sits within the warm embrace of amber. It is a simple and inoffensive choice for everyday wear, with good performance overall.

However, Polo Red Intense just smells better to me. The dry down has that great cranberry note, with amber, leather, lavender, and coffee. It has lots of personality, warmth, and a dynamic smell.

It can be super smooth, spicy, and fruity. Red Intense is a really interesting fragrance to wear and I would reach for it over Polo Blue a vast majority of the time.

However, Red Intense might not be the best for you. It can indeed be bold and sweet, which might not fit in for what you’re using it for. Many, might want to go with the more versatile Blue EDT.

Truth be told, neither of these would be my first choice from either the Red or Blue lines. If you like Blue: Deep Blue or Blue EDP are better. If you like Red: Red Extreme and Red EDP.

Winner: Red Intense

Tom Ford Tuscan Leather vs Creed Aventus Comparison

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In this edition of our head to head cologne comparisons, we have to competitors that are best sellers for their respective brands: Tuscan Leather by Tom Ford vs. Aventus by Creed. Which one of these popular fragrances smells the best? Which one gives a better performance? Is more versatile? Please continue below, for my full take after wearing both of them for a long time.

Tale of the Tape: Aventus vs. Tuscan Leather

Tuscan Leather

Notes include: leather, suede, raspberry, jasmine, olibanum, saffron, amber

Click here to try: Tom Ford Tuscan Leather Eau De Parfume Spray for Men, 1.7 Ounce

My original Review: Tuscan Leather

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 try Aventus: Creed Aventus Creed 4 OZ Millesime Spray For Men

My original Review: Creed Aventus

Opening

The start of Tuscan Leather is a mix of the leather note and saffron, which gives it a striking similarity to Godolphin by Parfums de Marly. However, the Tom Ford separates itself with the inclusion of a raspberry note, which adds a sweet juiciness to the composition.

It’s super rich and smooth, with an additional inclusion of black suede that really amps up those elements.

Meanwhile, the opening of Creed Aventus, is one that I’ve never really been a fan of. Pineapple and black currant together at the top, cause the cologne to be quite sharp, and this is played off of dry birch wood.

Plus, additional apple and citrus, make the opening of Avenuts a tad to intense for my taste.

Edge: Tuscan Leather

Projection

Creed Aventus isn’t insanely powerful, but the sillage is strong, and you can indeed overdo it if you’re not careful. Tuscan Leather matches that power at first, but after an hour or so, it turns into a more moderate scent with sillage commensurate with that.

Edge: Aventus

Longevity

With Aventus I average about 6 hours of wear on warm and humid days. On colder days, it will last for 8-9 hours, on my skin.

Older bottles of Tuscan Leather seem to have better longevity than Aventus, but the latest batch, gets around 8 hours of wear for me. So, with that in mind, I don’t currently see an advantage here.

Edge: Push

Versatility

In terms of what occasions each can be worn on, these two are very similar. Both are great dressed up, at the office, or for a night on the town. Heck, I wear them casually too. I think the difference comes in, when the seasons are considered.

Tuscan Leather is a autumn/winter scent, it’s not awful in moderate temperatures, but it shines in the colder air. Aventus, on the other hand, has much better ability to be worn year round. It’s not great in the middle of the summer, but is great during the rest of the year.

Edge: Aventus

Overall Scent

This is actually a really tough head to head to decide on, because these two colognes are actually quite different, but people seem to love comparing them for some reason. Which smell I enjoy better, can often depend on what day I’m asked, and what I’m in the mood for.

While I don’t like the opening of Aventus, I do like the dry down period much better. It becomes softer, has a dry smoky quality, and is quite well done. It also has better projection at this time and can hold up in warmer weather better.

Tuscan Leather, has an amazing leather note. It’s warmed by amber, really dark and smooth, with added raspberry and jasmine. It’s simpler but is very good within that simplicity.

Most of the time, I will enjoy wearing this Tom Ford more than the Creed. I happen to enjoy its aroma more than Aventus overall, even if Aventus can do better in certain aspects.

So, while I’m going to give the nod slightly to Tuscan Leather, it might not be the best option for you. If you don’t particularly enjoy leather, you won’t like wearing it.

If you want citrus and dry woods, among other things, Aventus will better serve you. Maybe you get a bottle of Tuscan Leather and try out one of the imitations of Creed Aventus for cheaper.

Winner: Tuscan Leather (slightly)